Where Poe Meets Pinot
By: Jeremy Angione | Photos By: Ashlee Glen
Dark walls, golden light, and the soft hum of a melody—The Raven Lounge invites guests to slow down, sip something new, and immerse themselves in a space where every detail tells a story. Inspired by the poetic gloom of Edgar Allan Poe and the celebratory culture of Louisiana, it’s Lynchburg’s latest Main Street addition—and its most evocative.
The wine and charcuterie bar opened May 10, through the combined efforts of co-owners and partners Jenee Davis and Bryan Fitz.
“This is kind of just an extension of our relationship. We do music together, we do life together, and now we do the Raven together,” Davis said. “It’s driven by love, for sure. It was definitely a place where me and [Bryan] could create something together.”
Despite the darker undertones of Poe and his works, the Raven Lounge remains cozy, intimate, and fun. Davis says much of the decor was actually already hers. There is even a horse-drawn carriage that acts as a focal point of the space’s design language.
Davis admits that the dark, dreary vibe of Poe’s 19th century era is a big part of her personality.
“I think my soul is stuck in that era,” Davis said.
Aside from the design of the space, Davis asserts that the quality that truly shapes the Raven Lounge is music.
Davis, originally from Louisiana, envisioned a space that reflected the cultural richness she grew up with—a place where music, food, and conversation came together effortlessly. She felt downtown Lynchburg could benefit from a more casual environment that celebrates creativity without the formality of a sit-down dining experience.
Although Davis is not a Lynchburg native, she’s called it home for the last 20 years and even raised her children here. The Raven Lounge was meant to be the type of place she wanted to experience with her family for years.
“We just wanted somewhere that people could experience something a little different. It’s also a platform for new musicians who haven’t played before. It’s a great opportunity for them to take the stage and have their first experience playing for the public,” Davis explained.
As a musician herself, Davis understands the value of having a dedicated space for artists and musicians to share their craft. She and partner Bryan Fitz form their own band called “Atlas Moon.” Together, they also play every Wednesday night at the Raven Lounge as a pair under the name “Jenee and Fitz.”
According to Davis, while the Raven Lounge certainly isn’t the first to incorporate music into their identity, the start times and duration of music performances sets Raven Lounge apart from other downtown businesses.
“Sometimes our music starts at 6.
In the fall we want to do music during the afternoon. I think that’s kind of what sets us apart. We’re gonna fill a time gap more than anything,” Davis said.
Aside from music, the Raven Lounge has opened its doors to all kinds of performers. The Raven hosts exclusive after-hour service for performers, staff, and audience members of the Lynchburg Symphony Orchestra and the Academy.
“We’re trying to figure out how we can be the focal point for the arts. I don’t think people realize how artsy and creative this town really is.” Davis claimed.
Despite opening in the slower summer months, Davis says that the community has responded positively to the Raven Lounge. According to Davis, the silver lining of the opening in the slow season is the ability to steadily test things out for the lounge.
“We’re going to have to find our niche. We’re learning with Lynchburg. People love the menu, small plates, and wine selection. We do carry wines that a lot of people don’t carry, at good price points,” Davis explained.
Thus far, Davis says that the Raven Lounge has appealed to everyone from older wine drinkers and young art lovers. While the lounge is a bar, Davis felt it best to subtract a mainstay of most modern bars—TVs.
“We wanted people to interact.
We want you to talk to people and meet people, like humans used to do,” Davis exclaimed.
With only a few months in business, Davis already has big plans for the Raven Lounge in the Fall.
“For Halloween, we are going to partner with some of the local art and theater programs, and we want to do skits and ticketed events,” Davis said.
Similarly, the lounge will receive a winter makeover for Christmas.
“We’re going to make it a winter wonderland. If I have to get a snow machine up in here, we’re gonna do it,” Davis joked.
Wine tastings and pairing events will also be available in the fall. Currently, the Raven Lounge is open for venue rentals every Saturday, during the day.
The Raven Lounge’s menu will also see growth with the addition of tapas style food items. Currently, guests can enjoy the elegance of curated charcuterie boards, or comfort foods like the Raven’s “fancy” grilled cheeses.
According to Davis, certain items such as breads, cheeses, and some wines are locally sourced. Many of the wine cocktails are also made with local, fresh, and housemade ingredients.
While the Raven Lounge certainly has a distinct identity that stands out among other downtown businesses, Davis asserts that it does not have to be just one thing.
“Just like poetry, the Raven is open to interpretation. It may be a different feeling for you than it is for me,” Davis mused.
