City of Kitchener announces new full-service restaurant at the Aud

The City of Kitchener has selected the Rolleman Restaurant Group, a local owner of several successful restaurants, to operate the new full-service restaurant at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium (The Aud), which will open later this summer.

Following a competitive process that emphasized ‘a vibrant dining experience that celebrates local flavour while complementing The Aud’s high-energy, sports-centric atmosphere’, the Rolleman Restaurant Group was selected to operate the new Club 51 Sports Bar.

In honour of the Aud celebrating its 75^th anniversary this year, the restaurant was named Club 51 to commemorate the year The Aud opened – 1951. With a modern take on the classic sports bar, Club 51 will continue the tradition of bringing community and sport together in one place. The restaurant will open later this summer with a grand opening scheduled for September 18, in time to celebrate the Kitchener Rangers Home Opener.

“We are excited to welcome Club 51 to the Aud and look forward to enjoying the local food, drinks and hospitality they will bring to this incredible new community space,” said Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “Whether hosting fans before a Rangers game, friends watching the game on the big screen, families dining out, or a couple on a date, Club 51 will see community members of all ages joining in to create great times and great memories together.”

Club 51 blends the rich history of this iconic venue with elevated pub fare, local craft beer, Ontario-made beverages and warm hospitality. It will offer a modern and inviting space for up to 120 guests.

“We proudly source from local breweries, producers, and suppliers, celebrating the flavours and businesses of Waterloo Region,” said Jackie Rolleman, co-owner/operator of Club 51. “We will offer the classics like wings, burgers, and nachos with a modern touch, along with menu items highlighting current food trends like protein power bowls and plant-based options.”

With 40 years of combined experience, the Rolleman Restaurant Group operates with a focus on the surrounding community and oversees several locations in Waterloo Region, including Thirteen Food & Beverage in downtown Galt, The Galt Club, The Imperial Restaurant in New Hamburg, and previously, EJ’s at Baden.

“We are excited to create a welcoming place for fans, families, and friends to gather before, during, and after every event,” added Matt Rolleman, co-owner/operator of Club 51. “And not just on game days, but every day.” 

In May 2025, Council approved $2M to transform the Subscriber’s Lounge into a 2,300 square foot restaurant offering a vibrant dining experience.

Located on the second floor of The Aud in the newly renovated space, the full-service restaurant will support the Aud’s role as a premier multi-purpose venue and will create opportunities for larger events in the future. 

For updates and more information, visit TheAud.ca/Club51.  

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For more information: 

Corporate Communications and Marketing 
City of Kitchener 
media@kitchener.ca