The stonefly is an aquatic insect; specifically, it’s a clean water indicator. So with a degree in environmental biology and with passions in organic food and fresh, pure water, it’s only natural that owner Julia LaLoggia should name her new venue after this insect.
Owner of Redroom, Lee’s Luxury Lounge and co-owner of Barossa, LaLoggia had three things in mind when she bought the business from college friend Paul Onopa.
She wanted better music, for one, which comes down to better sound, a better stage, and more diverse shows. “We’re going to have one-third rock, one-third hip hop, and one-third indie/electronic,” said LaLoggia. She’s also been working with a new promoter, who’ll be bringing in a mixture of local, national and international acts.
LaLoggia is also planning to open a kitchen toward the end of summer, which she’s coordinating with the chef from Barossa. “I want the food we offer to be special, to be unique,” she said. “I want people to have a reason to come to Center Street.” The two are working together with the goal of offering healthy bar food such as vegan and vegetarian items, as well as free-range chickens and eggs. But for the person who wants something greasy, that will be an option as well.
“The third thing I had in mind is to celebrate beer,” said LaLoggia. Stonefly brewmaster Jacob Sutrick is respected among area beer connoisseurs, so look for future beer tasting events, a beer newsletter, and even brewery tours.
LaLoggia is excited to be in Riverwest. “I really like it,” she said, “it’s a lot like my old neighborhood off of Brady Street used to be 10 years ago.”
Stonefly is open seven days a week from 4 p.m. until bartime. Once the kitchen opens, it will be open earlier on Sundays to accommodate brunch.