The Social Cellar, located at 605 W. Magnolia St., celebrated its grand opening Friday, Sept. 4, inside the historic Magnolia House, welcoming a standing-room-only crowd eager to experience the newly transformed wine bar.

Owners James, Shawna and Lizzy Pancari greeted guests throughout the evening as they introduced the concept that replaced The Sipping Garden, which officially closed on Aug. 29.

The Pancari family previously owned Brooklyn’s Pizzeria in Leesburg, but James says The Social Cellar gives them more opportunities to connect with their customers.

“The restaurant was very, very high paced but we really couldn’t socialize much on a Friday night and Saturday night, and we were very social people, so we are very, very happy about our new place,” James says. “We are looking forward to talking with and really getting to know our customers here at The Social Cellar.”

That warmth was evident opening night as the family mingled with guests, served drinks, eats and shared their excitement about their new venture. Guests were heard praising the space, its new look and especially, the warm, friendly feel the entire combination exudes.

“Our opening went off without a hitch and we are so grateful,” James says. “We want to give everyone a place they can come to when they want to relax, wind down and just enjoy some good company.”

Shawna says the turnout was especially meaningful because rain threatened shortly before the 5pm opening.

“We couldn’t be more thankful to the community for coming out and supporting us,” Shawna says.

Lizzy, James’ daughter, brings restaurant experience of her own after previously working alongside James and Shawna at Brooklyn’s. The three were seen beaming all night long.

“I’ve worked in the restaurant business for a while now, but I am especially excited about this,” she says. “I’m also excited because everyone has been so welcoming and excited, too.”

The celebration also gave guests their first look at the space’s dramatic makeover. Its former citrus-inspired palette has been replaced by rich brown and black colors with wood accents and coordinating floors, walls and furniture. The result feels like stepping into a cozy wine cellar while remaining comfortable, calming and homey.

Guest Sherri Brown was impressed by both the new look and the familiar faces behind it, explaining that The Social Cellar is now on her and her husband’s list of regular places to hang out.

“This place is just amazing,” she says. “I love the vibe and we love the owners.”

On Friday, the owners baked and personally served bruschetta, wine and beer. Non-alcoholic selections and mango wine slushies were featured during Friday’s celebration.

The band Show Biz provided live music, with a special selection from Tom Grizzard. On Saturday, it was Chuck Mosholder who kept people up and dancing.

“We will definitely be coming back; what a cool place,” Sherri says.

The Social Cellar, on Saturday, debuted its full selection of wines, beer, nonalcoholic beer, flights and wine slushies, which Shawna says will be available in rotating flavors. Its small-bites menu includes charcuterie, shrimp ceviche and hummus plates, all with gluten-free crackers upon request. The menu also offers burrata caprese, artichoke bruschetta, prosciutto and Brie bites and Margherita and pepperoni flatbreads.

“They have a lot of options for everyone, and to me, that is huge,” she says.

The owners envision The Social Cellar, open Tuesday to Sunday from 12pm-9pm, as a welcoming gathering place for simply unwinding after a long day, date nights, evenings with friends and special celebrations.

Live music will be offered on select nights, with special events supporting community efforts planned going forward. Any updates will be posted on The Social Cellar’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

Photos by: Roxanne Brown and provided