Boston Herald
Chelsea developer buys Jacob Wirth for $1.6 million
By Thomas Grillo | Friday, November 5, 2010 | http://www.bostonherald.com | Real Estate
A Chelsea developer purchased the historic Jacob Wirth restaurant in the Theater District and has put an earlier proposal for an office tower on hold.
AJ Simboli Real Estate paid $1.6 million for the 14,000-square-foot eatery that opened in 1868.
Best known for its Bavarian Burger, Wiener schnitzel, grilled smoked bratwurst and imported and domestic draft beers, the Stuart Street landmark is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The restaurant will continue to be operated by the Fitzgerald family.
“My goal is to preserve the restaurant, restore its exterior and keep it that way for many years to come,” said Anthony J. Simboli, president of AJ Simboli.
Last year, Eastat Realty Capital proposed building a 24-story office tower behind the eatery, but that plan was shelved. Simboli said he does not have any immediate development plans.
“It is encouraging for us to have a new building owner who shares our vision and respect for this historic restaurant and city,” Kevin Fitzgerald, Jacob Wirth’s owner, said in a statement. “I know the community in the Theater District and our customers will appreciate his shared dedication and vision for making sure Jacob Wirth continues its long history of success.”
Mark Slater, a spokesman for the Bay Village Neighborhood Association, said residents are pleased the restaurant will be preserved and that more development has been put on ice.
“The proposed tower for that site was problematic,” he said. “It’s nice to see the restaurant saved without the tower.”
Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/business/real_estate/view.bg?articleid=1294138
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