Erie Events has announced that Red Letter Hospitality will serve as the primary tenant of the upcoming The Market House, a major new destination planned for Erie’s Bayfront and expected to open in 2028.
The 27,000-square-foot facility is envisioned as a year-round gathering place that combines dining, entertainment, and community-centered experiences in one location. Situated on the Bayfront Landing campus south of the Bayfront Convention Center, the development aims to provide both residents and visitors with a uniquely Erie-focused destination.
According to Erie Events, the centerpiece of the project will be a casual American restaurant operated by Red Letter Hospitality. The venue will feature indoor and outdoor games, including lawn games, arcade-style attractions, and tabletop activities designed for guests of all ages. The concept is intended to create an accessible, family-friendly environment that encourages repeat visits throughout the year.
In addition to the restaurant, The Market House will include a café, cooking school, bottle shop, and event rental space. Developers say the facility’s design and programming will reflect Erie’s culture and community identity, creating a multifaceted destination that supports entertainment, education, and social gatherings. Additional concepts, renderings, and project details are expected to be released in the future.
“Our vision for the Market House is to create a place you can come back to all year long, not just for one season,” said Anne DiPillo, president of Red Letter Hospitality. She said the venue will offer opportunities for families, community groups, and visitors to gather in a welcoming and casual environment while showcasing what makes Erie unique.
Gus Pine, executive director of Erie Events, said the partnership with Red Letter Hospitality builds on the company’s established success in the region and will strengthen the mix of attractions along Erie’s waterfront. He noted that the restaurant concept is expected to serve as a central meeting place for residents and tourists exploring the Bayfront.
The project recently received more than $9.5 million through Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), a state reimbursement grant program administered by the Commonwealth’s Office of Budget. The funding helps support the overall cost of the development and moves the project closer to construction.
Construction is scheduled to begin at the end of September, with completion anticipated in spring 2028. The site will be located directly off the newly constructed Bayfront Parkway, providing convenient access to downtown Erie and nearby waterfront attractions.
Red Letter Hospitality, a family-owned restaurant management company based in Erie, currently operates The Skunk and Goat Tavern and The Cork 1794, with plans for continued expansion in the region. Meanwhile, Erie Events manages several major venues, including Erie Insurance Arena, Warner Theatre, Bayfront Convention Center, UPMC Park, and Liberty Park.
The announcement marks a significant milestone for Erie’s waterfront redevelopment efforts, with leaders hoping The Market House will become a signature destination that attracts visitors while serving as a community hub for residents year-round.