Music
&
Nightlife
Live Music
Live Music
Live Music

This Legendary Columbus Cocktail Lounge is Expanding, and it Fixes Their One Glaring Problem

Eat & Drink, Food & Drink News, Nightlife

logo-buf-600w
Written by Step Out Columbus
Published on April 1, 2026
Photo courtesy of The Alibi Bourbon & Cocktail Lounge

The new spot from the legendary Short North cocktail bar The Alibi is opening this weekend in the Old North, Proof by The Alibi.

If you’re unfamiliar with The Alibi, here’s a quick refresher… it’s truly one of the best cocktail bars you’ll find anywhere.

But even though that’s the case, there was always a slight “problem” with it (which also happened to be part of its charm):

It’s too small.

The Alibi in the Short North

The coziness of the Short North spot was part of what made it so special. You really feel like you’ve discovered a hidden gem. Complete with velvety curtains and a dark, dimly lit atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to sneak out of the chaos of the Short North into something much more calm, cool, and collected.

But good luck getting a seat.

Sure, sometimes you’ll luck into a spot at the bar or, if you’re really lucky, get a spot in one of the lounge areas, but oftentimes there’s just not an opening available.

By the way, if you get one of the lounge areas, buy a lottery ticket.

But that’s exactly where Proof comes in.

Photos courtesy of The Alibi Bourbon & Cocktail Lounge

Proof by The Alibi in the Old North

Proof by The Alibi is opening April 3rd in the former Bossy Grrl’s Pin Up Lounge location, which unfortunately closed in December of 2025. The new spot is expected to keep those same dark, moody, good vibes… but fix the one “problem” (if you even want to call it that) with the original location:

There is SO MUCH MORE SPACE.

So now, instead of squeezing into a tiny corner and hoping for the best, literally dozens more people can experience the magic of The Alibi’s cocktails.

And if you’ve never had one before… just know you’re in trouble (in the best way).

The best cocktails I’ve ever had were from The Alibi, but one sticks out in particular. It was called the Billy Corgan, and it somehow tasted like a root beer float… but elevated, with a little extra spice and cream. So freaking good. I am still thinking about it. I am still waiting for it to come back. Maybe at Proof? Only time will tell.

Now here’s the real game-changer.

Be sure to check out Proof by The Alibi. You won’t forget it.

Proof by The Alibi | 📍 2598 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202

Food & Drink News

Attention Central Ohio Business Owners!

We built the Step Out advertising program for local businesses that want to get in front of locals in Central Ohio — people actively looking for places to eat, shop, and explore.

A business we advertised even had to hire 2 more people after working with us.

Curious if we’re a good fit for your business?
👉 Learn about our audience 

Already thinking, “This sounds perfect for us”?
👉 Learn more about our ads

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Step Out Columbus Newsletter Sign Up
Subscribe for our marketing and business newsletter too!

Connect with Columbus

Submit an Event

List a Business

 

X
To save to your favorites you must login first.
Login Here
X
You must be logged in to use this feature.