COBBLESTONES’ annual vacation-slash-renovation is almost complete–we re open tonight @ 5PM. We hope you love the changes–part of our annual, “Don’t get stale after 20 years” (The year changes each time, the sentiment never. How do we maintain growth, as we have, still after 20 years? Keep it interesting!)
As I drove around downtown last night, “changes” was the theme, as Merrimack St. readies for the long debated transition to a two-way road. We will see if it is a change for the better. Changing signs of the times…I’m not sure that expression was to be applied literally!
I noticed along my drive, that Finn’s Pub has re opened. Like a cat, these guys…
Es-to-go, did. Bye guys. You will be missed.
The Iraqi place didn’t last. That’s sad. Mike’s is now gone. Less sad. Though, the other Mike’s across the street had some great Falafel, while they lasted!
Hookslide Kelly’s sign is still up, but they are closed. Rumor has it, they will open next month as Dudley’s, operated by a couple of well known, fun local bar aficionados. They will maybe get that place cleaned up and make it special. Maybe they will be as successful as the original Foxtail. (Do you remember?)
Sadly, Mambo Grill closed a couple of months ago, after a great 10 year run. Mr. Jalapenos also closed, but has re opened as El Potro.
Down the street, the Last Safe and Deposit bar is rumored to be re opening under the inspiration of local celeb Dee Tensio…finally, after years of darkness, and light, and dark. It has been The Downstairs Cafe, The Under Impact and something else I cannot remember. Dude has been working it, and it should be a great re launch.
Corey B’s Major’s Pub left Jackson St, for Market St, when the Dubliner left, finally… Rumor has it, Major’s will become Wicked Irish. That should be wicked fun.
Reservations–which I have about going there! 🙂 – renains–the former Sangria’s-turned Mickey’s-turned something special for a minute-turned…I’ve lost track! The Courtyard lasted a couple of years, and repeatedly made me say Old Court inadvertently (maybe because it’s my “favorite “other” bar) Now, there is Ward Eight there . (Whose chef, I think, is heading to Dudley’s…)
What have I missed? Let’s see…the Middle St. “triangle” remains hopping–with the smokeless Smokehouse (formerly Smithwicks, formerly Pollard’s), Tremonte pizza (Formerly Fortunato’s, twice) and Fuse (formerly Cafe Paradiso, formerly the Firehouse). I admit, Fuse has lasted quite a bit longer than I predicted… after sort-of mimicking our menu! 🙂 ) Of course, there is the infamous and venerable Blue Shamrock–still open after all these years, maintained by new-father– Nick P! (Congratulations Nicky) Now THERE is an original! I have a suggestion Nicky….(Call me)
Centro–one of my favorite downtown spots of all time–a really good restaurant that has busted ass on a really tough street– will finally close doors next month–so I hear. (Good luck Patti!)
Shameless Plug:
Considering efforts and time and money and, well, who really wants to close their doors (Besides Gordon H!) because there is no better option?! If any of you hospitality folks are interested in a series of seminars targeting greater profitability (and fewer sign changes!), check it out… The 2nd class is right here in Lowell…in a brand-spanking-new dining room… (Just sayin’) MRA can help…
Of course, a heart congratulations to all you “getting it done” folks, year after year! The Athenian Corner, La Boniche, Olympia, Ricardo’s, Four Seasons, Old Court, Viet Thai…am I missing anyone?
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