Building Community One Cocktail at a Time: Amy Pagano of Grapes and Grains Tavern

What happens when an educator with a passion for people decides to open a neighborhood tavern?In this week's episode of Mill Talk, host Kathleen Prokesch sits down with Amy Pagano, co-owner of Grapes and Grains Tavern, to explore the remarkable story behind one of Revolution Mill's most inviting destinations.Amy shares how a lifelong dream of business ownership led her from a successful career in education and healthcare administration to creating a modern speakeasy inside one of Greensboro's most historic buildings. Together with co-owner James "Rusty" Collins, she transformed an industrial mill space into a warm, welcoming gathering place known for handcrafted cocktails, boutique wines, live music, and unforgettable hospitality. The conversation also highlights the early challenges of opening before the Revolution Mill Social District had fully developed, the importance of creating authentic community, and why customer experience has always mattered more than simply serving drinks.In this episode: The story behind the name Grapes and Grains Why Amy signed the lease at Revolution Mill the same day she toured the space  Transforming an industrial textile building into a modern speakeasy  Open Mic Tuesdays, jazz nights, live music, and Latin dance evenings  How musicians and friendships are created at Grapes and Grains  Amy's transition from school principal and healthcare executive to entrepreneur  Supporting veterans, mental health initiatives, and local nonprofits  Why hospitality is about making people feel seen, welcomed, and remembered Whether you're looking for your next favorite date-night destination, enjoy live music, appreciate great bourbon and wine, or simply love hearing stories of local entrepreneurs, this episode captures the spirit of one of Revolution Mill's most vibrant gathering places.About Amy PaganoAmy Pagano is co-owner of Grapes and Grains Tavern at Revolution Mill. Before opening the business, she spent more than twenty years serving as an educator, school administrator, and healthcare executive. Today, she combines that passion for leadership and community to create memorable hospitality experiences for guests throughout the Triad. Learn more:  Grapes and Grains TavernLearn more about Revolution Mill: Revolution MillAbout Mill TalkMill Talk is a podcast about the people, stories, and connections that make Revolution Mill one of Greensboro's most inspiring communities. Hosted by Kathleen Prokesch, each episode introduces listeners to the entrepreneurs, artists, business owners, residents, and community leaders helping shape the future of Revolution Mill.Mill Talk is proudly brought to you by The Health Insurance Shoppe.