Rough Draft Bar & Books
Kingston's indie bookstore, bar, and cafe.
About Rough Draft Bar & Books
In the heart of Kingston's Stockade district, Rough Draft Bar & Books has carved out a singular space where beer taps meet bookshelves, and espresso pairs as easily with a novel as it does with a neighborly chat. Founded in 2017 by Amanda and Anthony Stromoski, former Brooklynites turned small-business visionaries, Rough Draft blends bookstore, bar, coffee shop, and event space into one warm and highly social community hub. Set in a historic building at the city’s Four Corners, the space brings together exposed brick, cozy seating, and an ever-rotating selection of new books and locally sourced drinks—from Hudson Valley craft beers to Counter Culture coffee and Aussie-style savory pies.
But Rough Draft isn’t just a vibe—it’s a smart business model. By combining multiple revenue streams (books, booze, coffee, snacks, and merch), the Stromoskis have built resilience into their business, weathering the pandemic with strategic pivots like home delivery, outdoor seating expansion, and online ordering. Events like author readings, trivia nights, and brewery showcases draw a loyal following, while the bar’s casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere has made it a magnet for creative meetings, local families, and remote workers alike. Named for both literary drafts and draught beer, Rough Draft is more than a bookstore or bar—it’s a thoughtfully unfinished place where ideas, friendships, and good stories continue to unfold.
But Rough Draft isn’t just a vibe—it’s a smart business model. By combining multiple revenue streams (books, booze, coffee, snacks, and merch), the Stromoskis have built resilience into their business, weathering the pandemic with strategic pivots like home delivery, outdoor seating expansion, and online ordering. Events like author readings, trivia nights, and brewery showcases draw a loyal following, while the bar’s casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere has made it a magnet for creative meetings, local families, and remote workers alike. Named for both literary drafts and draught beer, Rough Draft is more than a bookstore or bar—it’s a thoughtfully unfinished place where ideas, friendships, and good stories continue to unfold.
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(845) 802-0027
8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Nearby
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