The Public Society, a new cocktail, beer and wine lounge in downtown Ceres in the former Rusty Nail Saloon space, was welcomed at a Chamber event on Wednesday evening, Oct. 21.

Sam Khacho and business partner John Ismail decided to brand the club for a more upscale feel. With a business motto of “Why should big cities have all the fun?” the owners desire for their customers to “dress to impress” and thus the dress code forbids the wearing of ball caps, jerseys, baggy clothing, gang affiliated attire or symbols, slippers or inappropriate footwear. The dress code will be enforced every Friday and Saturday evenings, said Ismail.

“We prefer collared shirts, button-ups and polos,” said Ismail. “We want to create an elevated experience with an entry level price so all of our drinks are very competitive in the market. We have some really nice signature drinks and we offer a bottle service.”

Public Society’s drink menu includes draft and bottled beer, wine and signature cocktails.

General manager Robin Sampuor said the business will offer special event nights like country night with line dancing, Latin music, comedy acts and music to target the Assyrian community.

His experience has included working at Wildfire Public House in Modesto for five years and he helped open and manage a rooftop bar in San Diego.

The club is closed on Mondays and Tuesday but open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to midnight; Fridays and Saturdays closing at 2 a.m.; and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Isabella Khacho will serve as administrative assistant.

Public Society is also available for rentals for larger holiday parties.

Sam Khacho, who has been a businessman and investor in Ceres since the 1980s, said the downtown bar has had a past reputation for being a trouble spot when it was Sweet Lu’s and Nashville West. He said the business aims to stay on top of issues, including making sure guests aren’t drinking too much and not driving off while intoxicated.

“Just from experience I know what should go in and what shouldn’t go in and just staying on top of it, making sure guests aren’t drinking too much, being responsible by not going out and driving,” said Sampuor. “We’ll order them an Uber if we have to take away their keys, you know, just making sure they’re safe too.”

Acting on a suggestion of Police Chief Trenton Johnson, the staff will screen with ID checks. The club also will have security on hand.