Riff Raff Tavern to reopen next week in same location, new owner says

The Riff Raff Tavern on the Canal — which its owner shut down last month, blaming meter maids, parking limitations, city officials and other factors — is gearing up to reopen July 15 under the same name but under new ownership, its new owner said today, July 6.

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And that new owner will be Grant Dixon, whose plans to open Evolution 804 Nightclub just east of downtown are now on hold and resulted in a lawsuit filed by Dixon against his landlords yesterday in Montgomery County Common Pleas Court.

Dixon worked in and managed nightclubs in Kettering, Dayton and Huber Heights several years ago, and also operates a senior home-care service. He said he expects the purchase of the business to be finalized early next week.

Dixon emphasized the new Riff Raff Tavern on Canal will retain the musical focus on rock/southern rock/country/blues that its predecessor had.

“The format will stay exactly as it was,” Dixon said. “I feel that is the best fit for that location.”

Evolution 804 Nightclub, which had been planned for 804 E. Monument St. in The 804 Building, “is on hold for now, but may move forward after litigation is finalized,” Dixon said.

ALSO TODAY: Dispute over Dayton nightclub’s lease triggers lawsuit

Dixon is planning to open the new Riff Raff July 15 and to be open from 4 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. daily after the grand opening.

“Smokin’ Guns rock band will be our opening act on July 15,” Dixon said. “On July 16, we are hosting an after-party for the RiverScape Blues Festival.”

MORE: Riff Raff Tavern starts Blues & BBQ (May 2015)

The new Riff Raff Tavern, located at 130 N. Patterson Blvd., will open with a staff of about 12, which could expand to as many as 20 in the fall, Dixon said. Mike and Bev Schmidt opened Riff Raff Tavern in 2013 after remodeling a formerly vacant structure.

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