1. The Bullbriar 51 West Forsyth Street
Acclaimed Chef Scott Schwartz will be opening The Bullbriar in the historic Marble Bank. The “southern-sophisticated” themed restaurant will include 175 seats and a large bar within the space. Along with the restaurant on the first floor and mezzanine, Schwartz has an option to have private dining rooms and wine cellars in the building’s basement vaults. After years of delay, construction should be underway on The Bullbriar and the rest of the Laura Street Trio, later this year.
For more information: https://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/article/barnett-bank-building-owner-applies-for-dollar22-4-million-renovation-permit
2. 223 North Laura Street (Chamblin’s Uptown) 223 North Laura Street
Ron Chamblin, the owner of Chamblin’s Uptown is in the midst of converting an adjacent three-story building into a first floor restaurant and four apartment units on the top two floors. The restaurant will provide breakfast and lunch, serve beer and wine and feature evening events. In addition, the eatery will include patio-style seating and tables along Laura Street. The project is expected to be completed in May 2019.
For more information: https://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/article/chamblin-plans-downtown-apartments-restaurant
3. Joysticks Arcade Lounge & Retro Bar 120 East Forsyth Street (street level)
Orlando-based Team Market Group plans to open video arcade bar called Joysticks Arcade Lounge & Retro Bar on the ground level of 120 East Forsyth Street. According to Team Market, “We think Jacksonville has so much potential. We think it’s undervalued, underrated and underdeveloped.”
According to their Orlando location’s website, they’re proud to be the most popular arcade bar in the city. “We’re sure that the thing that probably contributed the most to our acclaim is our wide selection of specialize drinks, craft beers, and retro arcade games.”
For more information: https://www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/news/2018/09/10/mathers-social-owners-plan-video-arcade-bar-in.html
4. Manhattan Sports Bar and Lounge 345 East Bay Street
Quincy Benton plans to open the Manhattan Sports Bar and Lounge in Downtown’s Elbow District. The 2,881-square-foot space is described as a New York-themed establishment designed to capitalize on the speakeasy buzz taking place around the country. In addition craft cocktails, Manhattans and draft beer, the 150 seat space will include an outdoor beer garden and serve small-plate Southern fare along with New York favorites. Benton’s goal is to open the bar no later than year’s end.
For more information: https://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/article/sports-bar-planned-for-old-hourglass-pub-and-coffee-house-downtown