Vintage Vibes & Cozy Cocktails

from Lounge Around - Fall 2022

by KS Women's Lifestyle

The Holiday Checklist

BY HEATHER PERRY // PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRENTON BUSH

SPEAKEASIES, COCKTAIL LOUNGES, WINE BARS & TASTING ROOMS

The concept of a contemporary microbrew and cocktail lounge in Topeka is a culmination of years of friendship, food and good conversation, according to Katie Sonderegger, co-owner of Salut Wine and Cocktail Lounge. Katie and her husband, Marc, alongside their friends Larissa and Matt Slimmer, dreamed of opening a place where one could enjoy a glass of their favorite drink and feel like they’re in a cozy living room rather than a restaurant. Once the ideal historic Westboro Mart location became available, the couples kicked off their adventure.

The Sondereggers always loved to travel. They took a trip to California wine country for their honeymoon and fell in love with the laid-back yet upscale vibe of the restaurants there. They dreamed of opening a place like that in their hometown of Topeka, so people wouldn’t have to travel to Lawrence or Kansas City to fi nd that type of atmosphere. During the COVID pandemic, they spent many evenings around fi repits with the Slimmers discussing the idea.

“Marc’s love of culinary adventure paired with my love of just plain adventure have inspired us to pursue this exciting new business,” Katie says. “Matt loves a good beer, while Larissa enjoys a glass of vino. Both hold a connection to their dear old dads in the libation of their choosing. These two empty-nesters just want to create a local establishment where folks can go and enjoy a classic cocktail, microbrew, unique wine and good conversation.”

The couples believed Topeka was ready. So they set out to create their own little slice of California in Kansas. The result is Salut – a warm and inviting space where people can come to enjoy good food, good wine and good company.

Try a sampling of small bites with the grazing board and pair it with the crowd-favorite hot artichoke spread. For drinks, you can’t go wrong with classics like the Hemingway Daiquiri or Brown Derby, but there are other unique options.

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Katie Sonderegger and Larissa Slimmer

Our signature cocktails have been wildly popular and were created by some of our Kickstarter backers. They are all based on a classic cocktail with a twist,” Katie says.

In addition to the lounge, there is also a basement speakeasy. As soon as you step into the Principal’s Offi ce, you feel like you’ve been transported back in time. The dimly lit lights and vintage lounge seating create an intimate and alluring ambiance, and the schoolthemed cocktails are a fun twist (a nod to Larissa’s 25 years in education).

The vintage record player is the fi nishing touch and really sets the tone for the whole space. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax with friends or enjoy a romantic evening out, the Principal’s Offi ce is worth checking out. It’s only open 5 p.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday evenings, so plan ahead for the elusive experience.

Proposals to create a weekend brunch are brewing, as well as monthly supper clubs – a great way to get to know other foodies in the area. The upcoming expanded wine list will give everyone a chance to explore their palette.

“We hope to become a Topeka staple with a combination of regulars and visitors wanting to try something new,” Katie says.

Salut’s California-inspired oasis might just be the perfect place to unwind and escape the stresses of the day. Reservations for both the restaurant and speakeasy are highly recommended, but bar, lounge and patio seating is available for walk-ins. Reservations can be made through the website or Facebook page.

SALUT WINE & COCKTAIL LOUNGE 3119 S.W. Huntoon St., Topeka, KS salutwinetopeka.com