While the future of the Blue Parrot is cloudy, just around the corner, the newest addition to the downtown Riverside scene is gearing up for its grand opening. Parallel 42, a wine bar at 34 East Ave., will “officially” open its doors on Saturday, Aug. 20 starting at 6 p.m.

Parallel 42, operated by Riverside residents Jennifer Beranich and Carl Choate, has actually been in business for about a month, quietly opening their doors on July 9. In that time, Beranich said that they have been working out the kinks and training staff.

“It’s been busy,” said Beranich, “and we’ve had a very good opportunity to test the computer system and get the staff up and running. And we’re constantly refining our menu, growing our cheese and wine lists.”

Parallel 42 is a wine bar offering wines by the bottle, glass and half glass in addition to small cheese, appetizer and dessert plates. During the grand opening, Beranich said that the bar will offer some food specials and create “more of a party atmosphere.”

Mainly, though, the wine bar is a place “where people can come and relax and enjoy wines and cheese from all over the world, Beranich said.”

Beranich said the wine bar has also started featuring a jazz vocalist, who will perform once a month or so. Parallel 42 is open six days a week, and is available for rentals on Sundays.

?”Bob Uphues