George R.R. Martin Opens Milk of the Poppy Bar – But Where’s The Winds of Winter?

For over a decade, fans of A Song of Ice and Fire have been eagerly awaiting The Winds of Winter, the long-overdue next installment in George R.R. Martin’s fantasy epic. But instead of delivering the highly anticipated novel, Martin has unveiled his latest project… a medieval-themed bar called Milk of the Poppy set to open in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

While the author has long been known for his love of distractions – be it blogging, working on TV projects, or writing about Targaryen history – this latest venture has left fans divided. Is it a charming new addition to his creative empire, or just another excuse to delay the book?

A Taste of Westeros

The new bar, Milk of the Poppy, is designed as a fusion of a medieval apothecary and a cocktail lounge. The venue, which will have a cozy 55-person capacity, will serve themed drinks and small bites, offering fans a chance to sip on something straight out of Westeros. The concept has already gained traction online, with an Instagram page teasing moody, candlelit interiors and mysterious elixirs.

The bar is even available for private events, meaning die-hard Game of Thrones fans could potentially host themed gatherings in a setting worthy of King’s Landing – or at least Oldtown’s Citadel.

Fan Reactions: Cheers or Jeers?

While some fans are excited at the prospect of stepping into a Martin-inspired fantasy world, others are exasperated. The author has missed numerous deadlines for The Winds of Winter, and in a 2024 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, he even admitted he might not finish the book before he dies.

“I am 13 years late,” Martin confessed. “Every time I say that, I’m like, ‘How could I be 13 years late?’ I don’t know, it happens a day at a time.”

This latest move has only fueled fan frustration, with many taking to social media to express their disappointment. Memes comparing Martin’s procrastination to the slow march of the White Walkers have resurfaced, while others joke that Milk of the Poppy might be where Martin drowns his guilt over not completing the novel.

Will The Winds of Winter Ever Arrive?

Despite the backlash, Martin insists that he is still working on The Winds of Winter – just at his own pace. In past blog posts, he has expressed frustration with the growing toxicity in fan communities, citing stress and personal loss as major factors that have hindered his writing.

However, as Milk of the Poppy prepares for its grand opening on March 21st, it’s clear that Martin is still finding time for new ventures. Whether fans will join him for a drink or continue to grumble about the delay remains to be seen.

So, would you visit Milk of the Poppy, or are you still too bitter about the book delay? Let us know in the comments!