The closure of the Big Mac Bridge has led to significant changes in Newport on the Levee, particularly affecting several dining establishments. Pesola Hospitality Group, which operates multiple venues, announced the closure of Amador Cuban and the Bridgeview Food Hall, both of which opened in 2023. The group also stated it would shut down Duke’s Hot Chicken in Pleasant Ridge. Despite these closures, the company remains committed to its Milkman brand, a popular burger and milkshake spot in Over-the-Rhine. The Bridgeview Food Hall, initially home to various eateries, will temporarily close as part of a transition to align with Bridgeview Box Park. The spokesperson for Newport on the Levee mentioned plans to reopen the concept this spring but did not provide specifics on the future of current businesses within the food hall.
Impact of Bridge Closure on Dining Venues
The recent closure of the Big Mac Bridge has had far-reaching effects on the local dining scene in Newport on the Levee. Several restaurants have faced operational challenges due to reduced foot traffic and financial strain. Pesola Hospitality Group, a prominent player in the area, has decided to close two of its locations: Amador Cuban and the Bridgeview Food Hall. Both establishments opened just last year, highlighting the rapid changes brought about by external factors. Additionally, Duke’s Hot Chicken in Pleasant Ridge will also cease operations. These closures underscore the vulnerability of small businesses to infrastructure disruptions.
The Big Mac Bridge's closure has been particularly detrimental to the financial health of these establishments. According to Pesola Hospitality Group, sustaining business operations became unfeasible under these circumstances. The social media announcement from the group emphasized that the bridge closure had a devastating impact on their Newport on the Levee locations. The lack of visitors and subsequent revenue drop forced the company to make difficult decisions. The final day for Amador Cuban and the Bridgeview Food Hall is set for Sunday, January 19. While this marks the end for some ventures, the group remains dedicated to its Milkman brand, which will continue to operate in Over-the-Rhine.
Transition and Future Plans for Bridgeview Food Hall
The Bridgeview Food Hall, once bustling with diverse culinary offerings, now faces an uncertain future. Initially designed to house four restaurants and a full-service bar, the food hall has seen a decline in tenant numbers. As of the latest update, only two restaurants were listed on its website. Pesola Hospitality Group, which managed the food hall, will step away from its role as operator. This decision comes as part of a broader restructuring plan aimed at realigning the venue with the Bridgeview Box Park. The temporary closure of the food hall signifies a pivotal moment in its evolution.
Newport on the Levee's spokesperson provided insight into the upcoming changes, stating that the food hall will undergo a rebranding and operational refocus to better integrate with the Bridgeview Box Park. This transition aims to create a more vibrant and sustainable dining experience. Although details are still forthcoming, there is optimism about the reopening planned for this spring. The spokesperson indicated that further information would be shared as the project progresses. For now, the fate of the remaining businesses within the food hall remains unclear, adding to the anticipation surrounding the new concept's launch.