BETHLEHEM, Pa. – Bethlehem City Council on Tuesday approved the transfer of a liquor license for a new restaurant planned at 217 Broadway.
The public hearing on the transfer was held during the council’s regular meeting and featured testimony from the applicant, Ride ‘Em Cowboy Co., which is seeking to transfer a license from Easton Meat & Produce Corp., 250 Line St., Easton.
Nicolo Baratta of Lahoud Law Group testified on behalf of the applicant and said the establishment will offer Southern comfort cuisine in a space featuring rustic wood and metal finishes, exposed beams and a “welcoming Southern-style environment.”
Council President Rachel Leon said she was very supportive of the restaurant.
“Thank you for your investment in the city,” she said.
The restaurant will accommodate 114 seats, including 21 standard dining tables, four two-top tables and bar seating for 17, Baratta said. Parking for 20 vehicles will be available on site, with additional street parking and garage parking at New Street.
Focusing on the dining experience, the establishment will prioritize “responsible alcohol service” and will not offer take-home alcohol sales, Baratta said. Live music is planned and on-site security will be provided.
The building, a former firehouse, was previously home to Broadway Social and then Revel Social. Broadway Social closed in 2018 after the state liquor control board refused to renew the establishment’s liquor license due to more than 60 instances of disturbance on or around the premises.
Baratta said Tuesday that the new restaurant is expected to create 35 to 40 jobs — a mix of full- and part-time positions. The applicant also hopes to partner with local breweries and distilleries, he said.
With council’s approval, the transfer still requires approval from the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. Baratta said the restaurant is targeting an August opening.