SCHENECTADY - The much-anticipated Vice & Virtue is set to open its doors on March 12, taking over the space previously occupied by Pinhead Susan’s in Schenectady.
Owners Tim Rankins and Julie Moscheo recently shared the exciting news of the imminent opening on the establishment’s Facebook page.
Originally, the duo had planned to launch the restaurant and bar in September. However, like many other businesses, obtaining a state liquor license proved to be a more time-consuming process than anticipated, according to Moscheo. Now, with all necessary licenses and permits in hand, they are eager and prepared to welcome patrons to their new venture.
“We’ve installed a new bar in the back room, revamped the color schemes, updated the wallpaper, and added new granite to the front bar,” Moscheo shared. “The place has a fantastic vibe, and we’ve been receiving a lot of positive feedback so far.”
The grand opening of Vice & Virtue is scheduled for March 12. The establishment will be open from 11 a.m. to midnight, Tuesday through Saturday, and will also open on Sundays and Mondays during Proctors events.
“Our focus is on creating a welcoming atmosphere, complemented by our delicious food and drink offerings,” Moscheo explained. “We aim to be an upscale yet down-to-earth and enjoyable venue. Our mission is to foster connections over good food and drinks. Our motto is ‘our vice is good food and drink and our virtue is serving our friends and family’.”
Vice & Virtue offers a diverse range of lunch and dinner options, as well as a specialty cocktail and wine menu. The menu is described on the company’s website as a “harmonious blend of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients fused with unique flare.” Catering services will also be available.
The venue features three separate dining areas and two bars, providing flexibility for banquets and private parties, Moscheo added. Reservations can be made online via the Vice & Virtue website.
Tim Rankins, a former football player at UAlbany, purchased his first bar, Bogies on Ontario Street, during his senior year of college. He has owned Pearl Restaurant & Lounge and Envy Lounge in downtown Albany from 2005 to 2013. The Rankins also run Cage Wars, a business that organizes mixed martial arts events nationwide, including at Rivers Casino, located just down the street from their new establishment.
The property at 38-40 North Broadway was previously home to Pinhead Susan’s, which closed in April of last year. Property owner Joey Faizy revealed that he had received several offers for the space even before it was officially on the market.
Faizy bought the restaurant in February 2019, following the announcement of former owner and co-founder Dennis McDonald’s retirement in 2018. McDonald, along with his brother Jack McDonald, had renovated the 19th-century building and transformed it into Pinhead Susan’s in 2000.
Uncaring
excited for the new spot