South Baltimore Bar and Restaurant Updates

J. Patrick’s Sold, Will Continue Operation

The January 10th auction of the Locust Point-staple J. Patrick’s was highly anticipated by those hoping the Irish pub would continue in South Baltimore. The auction included approximately 17 bidders.  The entire restaurant, equipment and real estate was sold by A. J. Billig & Co. at auction for $430,000.  Here’s more information about the buyer from the Baltimore Business Journal:

Steven O’Donnell, president of Elkdrige steel distributor Steven F. O’Donnell Inc., purchased the bar for $430,000 at auction Thursday. O’Donnell said he plans to rehire the staff and will likely “leave everything the same” when the bar reopens.

“Being Irish myself, if I was going to own a bar it may as well be an Irish bar,” he said.

J. Patrick’s liquor license needs to be transferred to O’Donnell’s name before the bar can reopen.

Great news!

Touch Down Baltimore!

I’m sure you are not tired of hearing ‘Touch Down,’ especially after the Ravens racked up 38 points on Saturday vs. the Denver Broncos!  Finally we have some news after the sale of Carl’s Little House at 1169-1173 Hamburg St. in Pigtown which was sold at auction for 145k on May 10th.  There is a transfer hearing on January 31st filed by Touch Down LLC.  They are requesting outdoor table service as well as live entertainment.  The outdoor seating looks like it could include a deck facing Ostend St.

This property is a very short walk to M&T Bank Stadium and the future Horseshoe Casino. It is also directly across the street from a huge property once eyed for a minor league soccer stadium, though the team is now out of business and investors in that proposal are no longer involved. It could still be a hot property for investment if not eventually another soccer stadium.

Nichiban to Become Zhao Brothers

After 20 years in Federal Hill, Nichiban shut its doors after deciding not to renew their lease. However, it offered an opportunity for a future restauranteur in prime Federal Hill real estate.  Those restauranteurs will be Zhao Brothers who have a liquor license transfer hearing scheduled for January 31st.  Three brothers will be running the restaurant and they got unanimous support last night from the Federal Hill Neighborhood Association.  They are proposing no live entertainment or carryout liquor. They will be open M-F 11am-3pm and 5pm-10pm.

The group and family have experience running other restaurants in Baltimore County and the restaurant will have an Asian concept.

More Momentum for Hollins Market

The business and restaurant community of Hollins Market is quietly picking up a lot of momentum.  Cockey’s has a new location with a large patio and new  liquor license, Cups Coffeehouse has been a popular new addition, and Zella’s is returning to the ownership that made them one of Baltimore’s best reviewed pizza restaurants.  We have also just received news that Herb and Soul will be opening a location at 1114 Hollins St. in the former location of Baltimore Pho.  Their menu includes appetizers, sandwiches, fried chicken, entrees and desserts, and they have a 4-star rating on Yelp. Here is a description from their website:

We truly rely and depend on longstanding relationships with local farmers and water men in our region to bring you the freshest ingredients that nourish and delight the soul. In our kitchen, you join us in supporting sustainable agriculture that respects the abundance and traditions of the region while helping to ensure its future.

Hampton Inn Adding a Liquor License

The Baltimore Orioles are surging with momentum after their first winning season since 1997 and the businesses surrounding the stadium will certainly benefit from the increase in attendance.  The always booming 500 block of Washington Blvd. in Ridgely’s Delight, which includes Pickles and Sliders, could be gaining a new liquor license as the newly-built Hampton Inn at 550 Washington Blvd. adjacent to Pickles has a hearing for a new Class B Beer, Wine and Liquor (Hotel-Motel) License to include outdoor seating.

About the Author: Kevin Lynch

Founder and Publisher of SouthBmore.com, longtime resident of South Baltimore, and a graduate of Towson University. Diehard Ravens and O's fan, father of three, amateur pizza chef, skateboarder, and "bar food" foodie. Email me at Kevin@InceptMM.com and follow me on Twitter at @SoBoKevin.