SMITHTOWN NY – The Cipher Room, Spy Trail Distillery’s new cocktail bar and tasting lounge, officially celebrated its grand opening in downtown Smithtown last week. Community members, local officials, and Smithtown Chamber of Commerce members gathered to welcome the new business, which expands the Ronkonkoma-based distillery’s presence while offering handcrafted cocktails made with its locally distilled spirits.
The ambiance is a perfect blend of polished, modern design and subtle nods to Long Island history, creating what the team calls a modern interpretation of an 18th-century spy tavern, with a tasteful atmosphere that pays homage to the region’s past.
Owners Robyn and Mark Grindel are excited to open The Cipher Room just ahead of the nation’s 250th birthday celebration this weekend. Robyn told The Messenger that the project had been in the works for the past year after the couple learned the downtown Smithtown space had become available. While the two were on vacation in Germany, Mark immediately began making calls to secure the location, recognizing its potential to bring their vision to life.
The journey began years ago when Mark, already established in his career, started to wonder if there was something more out there for him. His wife, Robyn, encouraged him to trust his instincts. After years of researching and learning about the bourbon and spirits industry, the couple eventually took a leap of faith that led them to Spy Trail Distillery and, later, to The Cipher Room.
The inspiration behind the distillery’s unique theme comes from both history and family. The Grindels live just off Long Island’s Spy Trail, a historic route that commemorates the Culper Spy Ring, America’s first organized intelligence network during the Revolutionary War. Drawn to the rich history that unfolded right in their own backyard, they built the brand around the legacy of espionage and coded communication. Their family’s military ties also played a role, as the couple’s son serves in the U.S. Army in cyber warfare, further reinforcing the theme of intelligence, strategy, and service that is woven throughout both Spy Trail Distillery and The Cipher Room.
Robyn said every aspect of the brand has been intentional. From the hidden messages and design elements featured on each bottle to the carefully selected furnishings throughout the tasting room, every detail was chosen to create a welcoming atmosphere while thoughtfully honoring the history and legacy that inspired Spy Trail Distillery and The Cipher Room.
To bring their vision to life, the Grindels partnered with DUNE & SAGE, an interior design studio led by owner Kathleen Benkowsky. Through thoughtful design and careful attention to detail, Benkowsky helped transform the space into the immersive experience the couple had envisioned. Robyn said there was no one else she would have wanted to work with, crediting Benkowsky’s creativity and dedication as instrumental in making The Cipher Room’s grand opening a reality.
The grand opening was attended by Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R-Kings Park), Suffolk County Legislator Sal Formica (R-Commack), Senator Mario Mattera (R-St. James), and many other community leaders, all of whom expressed their support for the new business. During the celebration, the Grindels were presented with several certificates and proclamations recognizing the opening of The Cipher Room and its contribution to the Smithtown community.
Legislator Formica said businesses like The Cipher Room are exactly the type of investment local leaders hope to attract to Smithtown, noting that they bring visitors to the area and help support the local economy. He acknowledged that the project faced challenges along the way but said town officials remained committed to helping it succeed. Formica added that Smithtown is committed to being business-friendly and will continue working to attract businesses that strengthen the community and contribute to its economic growth.
Robyn said the support from the Smithtown community has been overwhelming and that she is excited to become part of the town. She said she looks forward to welcoming guests, creating lasting memories at The Cipher Room, and building relationships within the community.
Looking ahead, the team has several exciting plans, including the release of its seven-year bourbon in conjunction with this weekend’s 250th anniversary celebration. Spy Trail Distillery will also be participating in community events throughout the year. To stay up to date on upcoming events and releases, follow @spytraildistillery on Instagram.
For more information, visit www.spytraildistillery.com. Spy Trail Distillery is located at 159 Comac St. in Ronkonkoma, while The Cipher Room is located at 52 N. Country Rd. in Smithtown.
