Dive Bar & Grill – 5147 Butler Street

A community meeting was held on Monday, August 26th at Goodwill as part of the Lawrenceville Responsible Hospitality Community Process. Owners Clint Kuskie, Gordon Judge, and Alison Judge were present to share their plans with residents and business owners in the community. All have backgrounds in the restaurant industry.   They hope to be open in early October 2013.  Their goal, as presented, is to provide the area with a casual, yet upscale tavern style experience that focuses on unique twists on traditional culinary items.  They intend to provide a comfortable, familiar setting but also offering refined and contemporary finishes.  They feel that they can offer a variety of food and beverages prepared at a price point that allows guests of various income levels to frequent regularly while still enjoying the variety and quality.  The community was supportive of the concept and the business at the close of the meeting. For additional details you can visit their website at www.divebarandgrille.com
Some of the issues discussed included the following:

• Days/ Hours of operation:  Monday – Sunday; 11 am – 2 am and will modify the Sunday – Wednesday closing hours depending on the demand for late night kitchen hours of operation.
• Food/ Alcohol Price Points:  Similar to menu and price points offered at Wexford location and can be found on website.
• Number of Employees:  10-15 and they intend to work with Goodwill and through the Lawrenceville WORKS! Program in an effort to find local employees.
• Entertainment:  Unlikely due to the size of the facility and the upper floor apartments (there are two rental units above).  They will be installing insulation and soundproofing measures to limit any sound from disturbing neighbors.
• Site Plan/ Facade:  Refurbishing existing sign.  Significant cosmetic upgrades include: new bar, bar top, bar back and draft system; new kitchen and equipment; fully updated restrooms and fixtures;  potentially installing accordion -style windows on first level; installing window planters for foliage under 4 windows facing Butler St.; upgrading electric throughout building; new HVAC units for business and living space.  Seating for 50 – 60 patrons.
• Recycling? Yes.
• Security Cameras?  Yes.

The owners have also committed to continue working with the community as they move towards their opening and once they open.  They have agreed to sign a community agreement that will outline issues of concern for the community as they arise.  They will also be reaching out to the community and specifically nearby neighbors,  to plan for a meet and greet closer to the opening. Please call LU with any additional questions or concerns – 412.802.7220.