There’s a new spot on High Street if you’re in the mood for a well-made drink and a quieter place to hang out.
Proof by the Alibi officially opened earlier this month in the Old North, taking over the former home of Bossy Grrl’s Pin Up Joint.
The new bar comes from the team behind The Alibi Bourbon & Cocktail Lounge in the Short North, and while it shares the same foundation, this space has its own identity.
The menu is completely different from The Alibi, but the overall feel will be familiar if you’ve been to the original. The focus is still on craft cocktails and a slower-paced experience, with a layout that leans into smaller groups and conversation. There’s also a tucked-away back room designed for private gatherings.
The space itself has a long history in the neighborhood.
For more than a decade, it was home to Bossy Grrl’s, a venue known for burlesque shows, themed nights, and a steady stream of regulars. When it closed in December, the owners shared that they hoped the next chapter would keep the spirit of the space alive as a place for people to gather.
The new concept heads in a different direction, with a speakeasy-style atmosphere and a more low-lit, intimate setting. The idea is simple: good drinks, a comfortable space, and time to actually sit and enjoy both.
Owner Josh Chapman acquired the property and liquor license late last year, and the months leading up to the opening included clearing out the previous space and reworking it for the new concept. Proof by the Alibi is now open daily from 4 p.m. to midnight.
For a stretch of High Street that’s long been known for its nightlife, it adds something a little different. It’s the kind of place you go when you want to stay awhile.
