Chophouse Reserve expands with event center venue

CEDAR RAPIDS — About a year after they first opened Chophouse Downtown in short order, owners Ryan and Joe Avila-Burillo are expanding with a new event center.

Chophouse Reserve, opening in the ground level space adjacent to Chophouse Downtown, plans to open by the end of October in the corner of the Hach Building, in the 400 block of First Street SE.

The new space, about 6,000 square feet, will feature an upscale area with a chef’s table and partitioned areas for more intimate gatherings. With the connected Chophouse Downtown, up to 15,000 square feet is available to rent for private parties. Chophouse Reserve’s space alone can accommodate 237 guests.

Ryan Avila-Burillo said the new opening, available only to rent for private and ticketed events, was prompted by the lack of large rental spaces downtown.

“We’ve built our brand around the corporate sector downtown. We have such large corporations downtown … and there really aren’t many private dining options that can accommodate the capacity of what they’re bringing.”

The new space can accommodate everything from small birthday parties and cocktail hours to large company gatherings.

With exposed brick similar to Chophouse Downtown, the space built in 1899 will bring modernized, luxe accommodations. With an on-site kitchen — relatively uncommon with local event centers — parties can take advantage of catering opportunities with Chef Joe Avila-Burillo.

The building’s unique features and history also will be put to use. Eventually, the vault will be turned into a wine cellar from which planners can hand-select wine.

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