Spring is here, but Winter is Coming to Market Square.
Bar of Thrones, a “Game of Thrones” pop-up, debuts today in anticipation of the HBO series’ final season premiere on April 14. It will open daily at 4 p.m. through the end of May.
The space at 268 Forbes Ave. has been transformed into a medieval banquet hall where 70 people can party Wildling-style or chill like White Walkers.
Staff members made plaster casts of their mugs to create a Hall of Faces and local artists crafted décor that would make King Joffrey smile. Guests can pose for photographs on an Iron Throne and watch new episodes as they sip a variety of beer, wine and cocktails inspired by the Seven Kingdoms.
Fans of the show will appreciate this menu, which includes Ned’s Dead (Smirnoff Mango, pineapple, passion fruit, merlot), Red Revenge (merlot, orange, honey, smoked rosemary), Dragon Fire (tequila, agave, raspberry, lime, flame) and Winter Has Come (rum, coconut, pineapple, lime).
Food made by Wolfie’s Pub, the new watering hole next door, includes the usual bar menu suspects.
Bob Wolfinger, co-owner of Wolfie’s Pub, Molinaro Ristorante & Bar and NOLA on the Square, uses the former Pizzuvio space to host seasonal pop-ups. Jingle Bar on Forbes, Lover Bar and Clover Bar generated big business from Christmas through St. Patrick’s Day.
“I saw the success of pop-up bars across the country,” he explains. “We figured this place is empty and we’re paying rent on it. Let’s do holiday pop-ups. It exceeded our expectations.”
Each pop-up raises money for charity. A portion of the Bar of Thrones proceeds will benefit I Carry My Sister’s Heart, a nonprofit that helps families cope with cancer.
Bar Manager Shane Wilps, a diehard “Game of Thrones” enthusiast, is excited to connect with other fans.
“It has such a cult following,” he says. “The timing for this pop-up was perfect.”