“As a business owner, you recognize the desire of your customer, and you have to be willing to invest in the long-term vision.” – Barry Reese, Owner
By Heather Thomas, Upper Cumberland Business Journal
On Cookeville’s WestSide, Fire & Vine Restaurant & Rooftop Bar is redefining the local dining experience – literally raising the bar – or in this case, the roof! Known for its curated menu, signature cocktails and exclusive rooftop views, Fire & Vine has taken a bold step forward with a major louvered roof renovation, ensuring guests can now enjoy the rooftop comfortably in every season of the year and in all weather conditions.
A rooftop built for every season
Comfort was a top priority. The space now includes fans for warm weather and a floor heating system for chilly nights, making it equally inviting whether you’re sipping wine at sunset in July or enjoying a bourbon under the stars in December. The new louvered roof opens or closes at the touch of a button, transforming the space to suit Tennessee’s shifting seasons. This upgrade not only shields guests from weather, it also expands seating, giving more room to relax, savor, and enjoy the sweeping views from Cookeville’s only Westside rooftop dining experience.
“This increases the amount of time we can serve guests on the rooftop,” says Reese. “It’s about comfort, atmosphere, and making sure our guests have an elevated experience no matter when they visit.”
More than a meal — an experience
Whether it’s celebrating a milestone, hosting out-of-town friends or simply unwinding after work, Fire & Vine delivers a mix of premium wines, craft cocktails, and signature dishes designed to match the view. Every detail—from the drink menu to the floor plan—has been crafted to give diners a reason to celebrate and enjoy the unique flavors.
Investing in Cookeville
Reese says the decision to reinvest in Fire & Vine is as much about the community as it is about the restaurant.
“Investing in Cookeville is the biggest reason Fire & Vine was created,” he explains. “Seeing the effect this place has on the community, our employees, and the Westside in particular is the greatest reason to keep improving our establishment.”
That commitment extends well beyond the dining room and into the local economy. Fire & Vine employs 25–30 team members each shift, operating 10 shifts a week. It’s the only family-owned and operated restaurant in downtown Cookeville offering rooftop dining, along with three days of brunch service. Open seven nights a week, Fire & Vine has become a destination for those seeking an elevated experience in the heart of the city.
Strengthening the Westside Story
Fire & Vine’s rooftop expansion is more than just a construction project—it’s a clear sign of Westside Cookeville’s continued growth. As the district gains traction as a destination for dining, shopping and events, flagship businesses like Fire & Vine are helping to define its identity. You have an amazing view of it all from the Newly Renovated Rooftop Bar.
By pairing elevated dining with a deep investment in people and place, this family-run business is building a legacy—one that cements its role as a cornerstone of Cookeville’s Westside story. Be on the lookout for more Westside stories in the CBJ!
“West Side Story” is an ongoing series. Check back for the next installment.
UCBJ photo.
Copyright 2025 The Upper Cumberland Business Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Other stories you may want to check out:
