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March 10, 2023
APPLETON – A boutique-style retail space nestled along Appleton’s Edison Avenue is home to an impressive selection of wine, beer and spirits, as well as a few nods of nostalgia.
With walls covered in bottles from all over the world, a “tandem” bicycle hanging from the ceiling and a turquoise 1976 Volkswagen (VW) Transporter Microbus parked in the middle of the space, Owner Gregory Koenig said Tandem Wine & Beer is like no other.
“When people come into Tandem, they are greeted with an orderly chaos of unique products,” he said. “The selections are incredible.”
Koenig said the vintage fixtures and ornate lights suspended from the vaulted ceiling give the open space an edgy, yet calming vibe – while at the same time painting a picture of the location’s past.
Referred to as the “bus barn,” Koenig said the building was constructed in the 1830s and once housed hydroelectric street cars for the city.
Inspired venture
Koenig, a former social worker, said he was inspired to open his business to facilitate change and embrace people in a new way.
“I have always had a dream of running a small shop,” he said. “When it was clear I needed to move on from social work for my personal health and well-being, I decided to open my own business.”
At the time, Koenig said he learned a local wine shop was for sale and discussions with the owner quickly resulted in a purchase arrangement.
After building a small lounge and spending four years in that location, Koenig said he decided it was time for a new location that fit the genuine aesthetic and concept he wanted to offer the public with Tandem.
In 2019, Koenig secured and renovated Tandem’s current space by the Fox River at 101 W. Edison Ave.
“Tandem is one of the more unique spaces in the region and well worth a visit,” he said. “I have had people from other parts of the country and international travelers visit and return who remark on the quality of experience they had.”
Koenig said Tandem is a television-free environment.
Paying homage to the establishment, a tandem bicycle hangs from the ceiling of Tandem Beer & Wine. The space is also home to a 1976 Volkswagen Transporter Microbus. Jennifer Much Photo
“People enjoy it because it cultivates communication and connection,” he said. “I’ve witnessed people having lasting friendships after meeting at Tandem.”
Offerings
Koenig said Tandem boasts a collection of more than 800 wines from around the world, including beautiful, rare Belgian Ales and small-batch imports.
Tables – and any available space – are stocked with ever-changing locally handcrafted, artisan commodities and treasures, such as Italian Sourdough loaves from Voyageurs Bakehouse and fresh tulip bunches from Flower Girl Studio, as well as occasional vintage clothing and architectural salvage pieces.
In addition to wines and spirits, Tandem offers three draft beer options and functions as a space for local musicians – which are announced sporadically throughout the year through its Facebook page.
Beyond the allure inside, Koenig said warmer months invite Tandem patrons to the large outdoor patio – offering an extension to the space.
He said dogs are even welcome.
Tandem Wine & Beer is open Monday through Saturday from 1-7 p.m.
The space is closed on Sundays.?
