The House of Culture, Craft & Conversation

Opening Post-Construction – Membership & Access Begins in 2027

Welcome to the future heartbeat of Fort Myers—a one-of-a-kind cultural sanctuary nestled inside the STEMCAT Center, where heritage meets hospitality, and every space honors the past while shaping the future. Opening in 2027 after construction is complete, this immersive destination will feature three unforgettable venues: an exclusive speakeasy, a soul-inspired restaurant, and a vibrant performing arts lounge. Designed to gather visionaries, creators, and community changemakers, this house of culture invites you to dine, reflect, and engage in spaces rich with history, flavor, and expression.

Latimer Speakeasy

Where Legacy Meets Luxury

Opening in 2027, the Latimer Speakeasy will stand as a bold tribute to the legacy of inventor and innovator Lewis Latimer—a space reserved for only 50 lifetime members. Located behind a discreet private entrance on the STEMCAT campus, this hidden lounge merges exclusivity, heritage, and modern luxury. Members will enjoy access to:

  • A private, members-only entrance
  • Personal cigar hutch lockers stocked monthly with premium cigars
  • A rotating, members-only private dining menu
  • Strict no cell phone policy to preserve intimacy and authenticity


With seating for up to
76 hand-selected guests, the speakeasy will serve as a haven for leaders, creatives, and visionaries. No walk-ins. No public reservations. Only intentional experiences for those committed to culture and community. Membership applications open in 2027 following construction completion.

A Culinary Masterpiece

Redefining Southern Comfort

More than a restaurant—this is a celebration of culture through cuisine. Our main dining space is a 200-seat homage to the culinary traditions of the African American and Latino South, reimagined by visionary chefs. Each dish tells a story, blending the flavors of heritage with bold modern techniques.

Expect:

  • Seasonal chef-crafted menus rooted in ancestral recipes
  • Locally sourced ingredients honoring regional identity
  • An expansive bar with artisan cocktails and curated wine pairings


Here,
every meal is a movement—inviting guests to sit, savor, and reconnect with the spirit of community through food. It’s not just comfort—it’s legacy on a plate.

Red Rooster Performing Arts Lounge

Where the Culture Gathers

When the lights dim, the Red Rooster Performing Arts Lounge comes alive. This 100-seat performance venue within STEMCAT is a cultural pulse point—a sacred space for artistic expression, storytelling, and soul-stirring connection. Inspired by historic lounges of the Harlem Renaissance and Black arts movements, the Red Rooster offers:

  • Live jazz, soul, spoken word, and theater
  • Artisanal appetizers and late-night bites
  • An intimate lounge setting for deep listening and meaningful celebration


Whether it’s a solo saxophonist or a full poetry ensemble, this space invites you to feel every word, every note, every beat. The Red Rooster is more than entertainment—
it’s a movement wrapped in rhythm, purpose, and power.