The city of Keene is about to welcome a new establishment, The Owl’s Nest, which is set to open at 91 Marlboro St. by the end of March. This spot previously housed The Nuche Tavern, which ceased operations in June after the former proprietor shifted focus to other projects.

Stephen Kullmann, the new owner, plans for The Owl’s Nest to cater to a diverse clientele, from college students to longtime residents, while paying tribute to the bar’s history. The location, a fixture in the local dining scene since the 1950s, will undergo significant renovations, including a refreshed interior and modern amenities. Efforts include removing old engravings from the previous establishment and enhancing the space with new flooring, paint, and additional TVs and speakers.

Kullmann, who has experience in restaurant management, has collaborated with his friend Jeremy Boisvert to oversee daily operations. They intend to provide a menu featuring pizza, subs, salads, and appetizers, focusing on the use of all-natural ingredients.

Plans for partnerships with Keene State College are also in the works, including broadcasting college sporting events and potentially benefiting from new NCAA regulations allowing businesses to sponsor college teams. Kullmann announced a soft opening is planned within the next two weeks, followed by a grand opening later in March.