Cultural Hub Takes Root in the Brooklyn Arts District

Located in the heart of downtown Wilmington, Avenue B is the brainchild of husband-and-wife Christopher and Tabrina Watson. Described as a curated wine, cocktail, music and food space at 724 N. Fourth St., the establishment opened to the public in March.

“Avenue B is really a reflection of the overlap between my husband and myself – it represents a kind of full-circle moment shaped by the things we’ve each experienced and the things we’ve always loved most about life,” Tabrina Watson said. “My husband comes from a background in the music industry and design, while my own path has been rooted in the culinary arts, particularly pastry, wine and cheese. When those worlds intersect, they naturally create something larger than their individual parts.”

The Brooklyn Arts District appealed to the couple for several reasons.

“We were drawn to The Brooklyn Arts District because of its strong sense of creativity and community,” Tabrina Watson said. “We found an energy in the neighborhood emitted from the businesses and residents alike that aligns closely with what we envisioned for Avenue B – a space where music, visual arts, hospitality and conversation can coexist organically. More than anything, it felt like a neighborhood where Avenue B could grow authentically and become part of the cultural fabric rather than simply occupy a storefront.”

The most important part of Avenue B is that the people who gather there make it what it is, and that is all by design, she said.

“Most importantly to us, we believe the people within a space are what ultimately define it,” she said. “We’ve seen beautifully designed businesses struggle, while far more modest places become deeply meaningful because of the community cultivated within them. At the end of the day, the atmosphere is created by the people who gather there, and we feel incredibly fortunate for our team, artists and guests who have helped shape Avenue B into what it is becoming.

She said they’d love for residents and visitors alike to see Avenue B as more than just a wine-and-cocktail bar.

“It’s really intended to be a gathering space – somewhere to discover local and touring artists, connect with people and slow down a bit,” she said. “Whether someone comes for a jazz set, an exhibition opening or just a quiet drink in the courtyard, we hope it feels memorable and inviting.”

With the warmer summer months ahead, Avenue B, which opened in the spot previously occupied by Bottega Art & Wine, offers outdoor seating.

“Our vision for the space was not overly pre-prescribed,” Tabrina Watson said. “Much like life, in general, we find what is good and build upon it. The courtyard and outdoor bar in particular have become major focal points for us this season, especially as someone who tends to be very plant-centric and drawn to natural environments.”

The Watsons said they are excited about what the future holds for Avenue B, with expanded offerings and events.

“Looking ahead, we’re especially excited to expand our culinary program with the introduction of curated small plates and a gourmet cheese counter by the end of 2026,” Tabrina Watson said. “The offerings will be designed to encourage discovery, introduce guests to new flavors and challenge the palate in an approachable, inviting way – thoughtful and particular without ever feeling pretentious.”

Open Thursday through Saturday with live music, schedules of upcoming artists can be found on Avenue B’s website (avebilm.com/events).

“In addition to our standing cadences, including Friday jazz, and a songwriter series on Thursdays, we will be hosting a roster of independent and touring artists from an extended footprint,” Tabrina Watson said. “This summer, we’re launching Pup & Paint, a community-focused event series we’re especially excited about. On Sundays, free of charge, guests can bring their dogs in to create their very own ‘paw-casso’ paintings. Each pup creates two small pieces – one for the owner to take home and another that we’ll feature in a year-end doggie art exhibition and silent auction.”

She said 100% of the proceeds from Pup & Paint artwork will go toward supporting local animal rescue organizations.

There are also opportunities for pop-ups and workshops, such as the previously held pasta-making class and the raw bar Thursday event. The most up-to-date events can be found on Avenue B’s Facebook page, where new artists will be announced, and links for special events will be posted.

“Where disciplines intersect – music, design, food and thoughtful service – we began to uncover a deeper common thread: human experience and connection,” Tabrina Watson said. “It’s our way of bringing together the elements that have shaped us both and translating them into an experience that feels thoughtful, welcoming and accessible.”