Random Howse to Open on “A” Street

by Cara Russell

Clyde and April Duke to open new restaurant, Random Howse. Photo: Cara Russell

Random Howse will open November 19 in Eastsound inside the building that used to house Agave. Owners Clyde and April Duke will kick off the opening with their first Thai Food Tuesday night, by New Leaf’s breakfast Chef Kevin Gregus.

Months ago, when Clyde Duke saw the building up for sale, it got him thinking -— he could imagine seeing musical performances there, comedy nights, lectures, weddings, and other endless options. In fact there is something about this building that just inspires the individual, as it did for Clyde. “The building was underutilized, and I knew what it could potentially be. Naturally, it spoke to us,” said Clyde.

Clyde and his wife April, purchased the building and decided to name the venue ‘Random Howse’—a name that suited their intentions. “With all the ways we plan to use the space, it truly is a Random Howse,” said April.

The Dukes spent this last summer renovating and making the space their own. Inside they have added a brick wall on the stage, and repainted the interior. “Before it was very colorful inside. Basically we updated the makeup to warmer tones, “said April.

Inside there is a cozy bar, separated from the main room by a wall with a shared gas fireplace. Random Howse will have a full bar, including an assortment of non-alcoholic drinks and mixed drinks.

The main room is spacious with high ceilings and features a beautiful stage for performances. The stage is 27’x12’, with a small attached dressing room. The lighting system inside is more than capable of producing anything from comfortable social atmosphere, to a programmable lighting system for use of the stage. “With the way the building is set up, this venue can be anything,” said Clyde. “Our intent is to have it as a place where the island can come as a whole.”

The Dukes are strong supporters of local talent, and they want to utilize the stage as much as possible by providing the space for artistic local individuals to practice their craft. “We will rent the space out to bridal parties, yacht club events—whoever wants the space. Celtic, jazz, blues, spoken word, sing-alongs, comedy nights, game nights, movie nights, theme nights, ladies nights—you name it,” said April.

Random Howse will be open four days a week throughout the winter—a plus to islanders who have fewer options in the off season. There will be activity nights Friday through Sunday, in addition to Thai Food Tuesday. On events nights, the bar will open at 5 p.m. to midnight, with a small dinner menu for event nights.

Some of the upcoming Random Howse events include:

• November 19: Random Howse will open to the public and begin booking events. And the First Thai Food Tuesday Night. Breakfast Chef of New Leaf Café, Kevin Gregus. Dinner from 5-9. Take-out available.
• December 13:  Caleb Klauder and his band, there will be room to dance! This will be the first official event.
• March 17: Celtic music by The Craicers.

Random Howse is located at 365 North Beach Rd #109. For any questions, or if you would like to book Random Howse for your future event, contact April Duke at 622-6328, via email, or on Facebook.