That big tent sandwiched between Sundog Books and Great Southern Café hides a much-anticipated secret: Chef Jim Shirley’s latest venture, 87 Central Square Wine Bar, opening on November 9, 2023.

Drawing inspiration from outdoor gathering spaces around the globe like the terraced bars of Amsterdam, Italian piazze, and courtyards of New Orleans, the new wine bar will offer Seaside visitors and residents an evolving menu.

Expect sushi, charcuterie, shareables, their famous paella on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and of course, a top-notch wine list—it may even bring back nostalgic memories of the beloved 45 Central Wine Bar of days past. 

“This venture is truly a labor of love, and I couldn’t be more excited that 87 Central Square will make its debut coinciding with the 31st Annual Seeing Red Wine Festival, an event that holds a special place in our history,” Chef Jim said.

Chef Jim Shirley’s team will prepare all the culinary delectables for the Al Fresco Reserve Tasting on November 10. This year’s Celebration of Bubbles on November 12 will be hosted at 87 Central Square—an event that parallels their tagline, “In vino veritas. In Campanie felicitas,” or “In wine, there is truth. In champagne, happiness.” Chef Jim Shirley has hosted the event for the past 18 years, and as always, guests can expect a bevy of bubbles from Cava to Prosecco to Champagne paired with tasty brunch bites.

87 Central Square will soon include a covered dining space, a circular bar, and more. Until then, come out on November 9th, raise a glass, and toast to a new gathering spot. Cheers y’all!

For more info and updates, follow 87 Central Square on Facebook.