THE PHOENIX RISES: DELIGHTMORE ANNOUNCES RESTORATION OF ICONIC CINCINNATI LANDMARK
Historic Venue to Reopen in 2027 Following Thoughtful Renovation Blending Timeless Architecture with Modern Event Experiences
CINCINNATI, OH – August 18, 2026 – The Phoenix, one of Cincinnati's most iconic & historic event venues, is making a powerful comeback as a premier destination for weddings, corporate gatherings and celebrations, orchestrated by DelightMore, the region’s leading full-service event experience company. DelightMore has signed a 10-year operating agreement to restore and operate approximately 28,000 square feet of the landmark venue. Renovations are underway, with the Phoenix expected to open in early 2027.
"The Phoenix has long been one of Cincinnati's most recognizable historic venues, and we're deeply honored to help direct its next chapter," said Don Vonderhaar, Chief Executive Officer of DelightMore. "Our goal is to preserve the elegance, craftsmanship and character that have defined this landmark for more than a century, while creating exceptional experiences for today's weddings, corporate events, galas and celebrations. We can't wait to welcome guests back into a venue that holds so much history while creating new memories for generations to come." Even before reopening, The Phoenix has generated strong demand, with several weddings already booked for 2027. Public tours of the venue will begin later this month.
Iconic Cincinnati Event Venue
Located at Eighth and Race Streets, The Phoenix is one of Cincinnati’s most storied landmarks, with a history dating back to 1893. Originally designed by renowned architect Samuel Hannaford, The Phoenix is widely recognized as one of the city's finest examples of Italian Renaissance architecture, boasting a grand marble staircase, intricate woodwork, chandeliers and iconic Tiffany stained-glass windows.
Originally home to the Phoenix Club, a prominent social organization founded by Cincinnati's German Jewish community, the building later became home to the Cincinnati Club. In 1985, it was officially recognized for its historical significance & listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and for years it served as a high-end fine dining restaurant and multi-floor banquet hall. The Phoenix closed in 2023 and was purchased in 2024 by The Scottish Rite Masons who have plans to occupy the basement and some office space in the building after it reopens.
Thoughtfully Reimagined Spaces
The reimagined venue will feature four distinctive event spaces across multiple levels, accommodating everything from intimate weddings to corporate meetings, nonprofit galas and large-scale celebrations. Every event will be elevated through DelightMore's renowned culinary experiences, seamless planning and exceptional hospitality.
Original architectural features have been carefully preserved and enhanced with modern amenities, creating a venue that blends historic elegance with contemporary event experiences. The updated spaces and room names were selected to celebrate the building's architectural significance and long-standing place within Cincinnati's history.
- The Tiffany Gallery (175 seating capacity): An elegant setting for intimate celebrations featuring breathtaking Tiffany stained-glass windows
- The Legacy Ballroom (275-350 seating capacity): Grand ballroom designed for weddings, galas and large-scale corporate functions
- The President’s Room (60 seating capacity): Refined and intimate atmosphere featuring a famous hand-carved library, breakfront and bar built in 1905
- The 1893 Club (70 seating capacity): Speakeasy private dining club designed for curated dining experiences and intimate celebrations
- The Society Suite: Late 19th century -style luxurious setting for preparations or small gatherings
- The Hannaford Lounge: Stylish, comfortable gathering and preparation space, named in honor of the building’s architect, Samuel Hannaford
The Phoenix becomes the newest addition to DelightMore's exclusive collection of premier event venues, joining The View at Mt. Adams, The Transept, Carnegie Hall Newport and Mercantile Immersive. When fully operational on event days, as many as 30-40 team members will be on site at The Phoenix, including facility, sales and wait staff, and new team members the company plans to hire. DelightMore will begin booking tours of the space later this month. To learn more about The Phoenix, visit https://thephoenixcincinnati.com.
About DelightMore
DelightMore is Greater Cincinnati’s premier full-service events & catering company. With over 70 years of experience, the company orchestrates every detail for unforgettable weddings, corporate events and private celebrations through outstanding service, innovative cuisine and seamless event execution. DelightMore’s exceptional venues include The Phoenix, The Transept in Over-the-Rhine, The View in Mt. Adams, Carnegie Hall at Newport and The Mercantile Immersive Downtown, Cincinnati's first and only 360-degree multi-sensory event venue. To learn more about how DelightMore brings visions to life, visit DelightMore.com.
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