Lucy’s Dive Bar Reopens in the Heart of East Village
Lucy’s dive bar, a beloved East Village establishment, made a triumphant return on Avenue A after more than a year of closure. The shutdown was prompted by a reported rent increase from the new building owners, leaving many regulars disheartened.
However, hope shone through in the form of Jon Neidich, a former patron turned nightlife impresario and CEO of Golden Age Hospitality, known for his successful downtown ventures like Le Dive, The Nines, and ACME. Neidich’s personal connection to Lucy’s ran deep, having lived in an apartment directly above the bar during his youthful days. His fondness for the place was evident, with Lucy herself affectionately referring to him as her “other grandson.”
When news of Lucy’s financial struggles reached Neidich’s ears, he wasted no time in rallying his business partners to rescue the iconic dive bar. During a crucial liquor license hearing in August, Neidich’s lawyer, Max Bookman, shared the heartwarming tale of Lucy and Neidich, underscoring the bar’s significance to the community.
Following careful deliberation, Neidich and his team made a commitment to preserving the essence of Lucy’s while implementing necessary upgrades for a seamless reopening. Plans for additional soundproofing and improved accessibility were in the works, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for patrons. Notably, one significant change was the shift from a cash-only policy to accepting credit cards, a modern touch welcomed by many.
The highly-anticipated reopening of Lucy’s was first brought to light by EV Grieve, a local news source that had the privilege of attending a private preview event at the revamped bar. The excitement was palpable, with Lucy’s Instagram account buzzing with announcements and special offers for loyal customers. In a heartfelt message, the bar expressed its gratitude by offering drinks at 2006 prices for the entire week, a gesture that was met with enthusiasm from the community.
As the doors swung open once again, Lucy Mickevicius, the bar’s former owner and enduring presence, shared her plans to continue gracing the establishment with her charm and hospitality. Now in her 80s, Lucy’s dedication to the bar that she eventually came to own in 1997 remains unwavering. In an interview with Eater, she hinted at occasional appearances behind the bar, a testament to her enduring passion for the place that holds countless memories.
With Lucy’s Dive Bar back in business, the East Village welcomed back a piece of its vibrant history, a testament to the enduring spirit of community and resilience in the face of challenges. The bar stands as a beacon of hope and nostalgia, beckoning both old and new patrons to partake in its timeless charm and camaraderie.
