The Cottage in Southgate Gets New Owners, Name

The Sit n' Bull Cafe located at 2401 Alexandria Pike opened this month under new ownership. FTM file

You may have seen a new sign outside of The Cottage in Southgate. This month, an end of an era and the beginning of a new one came with the opening of The Sit n' Bull Cafe. Patrick Casey, owner of Fort Thomas Pizza & Tavern bought the property in November. After being closed for a month for a face-lift, the bar opened on December 8 to a packed crowd.

"I relish the challenge of a new project and felt that The Cottage was an opportunity to revive what has been a great family-owned business in the past, said Casey, and I wanted a name that would reflect a friendly neighborhood bar."

The bar was built in the mid-thirties and opened under the name, Al's Cottage. Locals remember Al's Cottage as having a raised dance floor that lit up, an old bowling machine as well as metal tokens that were used to purchase beer.

This is an advertisement. 

For 30 to 40 years, it remained and changed hands once before Mike Scholl and Jerry Volmer of Fort Thomas bought the bar in 1983 and changed the name to The Cottage. In 1985, Volmer sold his half to Scholl's two late brothers, Dutch and Scott. Since then, The Cottage has seen a few renovations and changes, but these have remained- good times and good friends.

The Cottage was owned by the Scholl family for 33 years. FTM file

"I had 33 great years working a business with my brothers, and I made a lot of lifelong friends," Scholl said.

After the passing of his brothers, Scholl decided to sell to spend more time with his family.

Under Casey's ownership, the bar has been completely repainted; the bar itself has been remodeled; several flat screen TVs have been added; and all heating and air units have been serviced or replaced. Draft beer and a soda fountain has been installed along with new refrigeration. Keno will soon follow.

A newly remodeled bar area at the Sit n' Bull. FTM file

Rick Webster, bartender for The Cottage and now Sit n' Bull says he is excited about the new changes. He has been around The Cottage for a long time and will cherish the memories had there and looks forward to more.

"The bar has always been a great place to catch a ball game or come to unwind after a long day at work," Webster said.

Casey agrees and says the aim going forward is to offer weekly live entertainment but keep a sports theme tailored to specific clientele demands.

Karaoke will be offered every Thursday and Friday night. FTM file

"Management has set clear goals to ensure consistency in its attention to customer needs and will offer regular promotions and daily specials, Casey added.

"We will endeavor to remain competitive with local business and create a balance between affordability and atmosphere, along with quality service."

Casey also said that he strongly denies allegations that he only bought the place because it was rumored over the years that Jimmy Hoffa was buried under the building.

No Bull!