Sasha Salzberg, Ian Daly, and Evan Carroll had a vision: to open an authentic New England sports bar in the heart of Portland. With combined expertise in bar management, design, and business management, the trio pooled their skills to make this dream a reality. However, their shared passion for bringing people together sparked the idea for Jerome’s.
With a business plan in hand and a potential space on Temple Street, they reached out to the Maine SBDC in March 2023 for guidance. That’s when they met Certified Business Advisor Chris Cole, whose extensive restaurant industry experience proved invaluable. They discussed the cost of renovations needed, what might be allowed for food offerings, and the timeline to put it together.
“Chris had direct experience related to many of our questions. She reviewed our business plan and offered insightful advice and suggestions,” the partners shared.
Over the next few months, Chris worked with Sasha, Ian, and Evan to refine their business plan. They developed cash flow projections, crafted the menu, and set pricing. The original location for Jerome’s did not work out, but the trio soon discovered a new opportunity at the former Snug Irish Pub on Congress Street. Chris continued to provide guidance on food distribution options and licensing.
In addition to business challenges, they faced the task of reimagining the space to reflect their vision. They aimed to preserve the previous bar’s charm while bringing a fresh take on nightlife to the neighborhood. Their hard work paid off when Jerome’s officially opened in February 2024.
Today, Jerome’s features a diverse selection of local beers, wines, original cocktails, and fresh and hot food. The bar is filled with sports memorabilia, celebrating the region’s beloved pastimes, from skateboarding and snowboarding to ice hockey, football, and basketball.
Looking ahead, the partners are dedicated to growing Jerome’s presence in Portland’s nightlife scene. In a short time, Jerome’s has received rave reviews and has built a growing base of regular customers from the community. The team remains committed to staying true to their original vision: providing a place where sports fans and locals gather together for satisfying food, drinks, and company.
