A new food hall in Pittsburgh is close to opening after years of development.
The development began in 2018, but zoning issue and the pandemic caused delays.
Originally a live-action theater, the over 130-year-old Lawrence Hall, in Lawrenceville, has had various uses over its history, including an auto dealership and auto service station and finally used for a construction business.
But, it will now be a place where people can gather for food and drinks.
When it officially opens early next year, there will be four restaurants, a bar and the first ever brick and mortal location for Leona's ice cream.
Brett Minarik, co-founder of Lawrence Hall says the first restaurant just recently announced is an American fusion place called Loaded.
"Sort of comfort food concepts, really interesting, phenomenal smash burgers and fried chicken sandwiches and they have a pretty unique twist on things like Korean corndogs and churros," said Minarik.
Minarik says they plan on announcing the three other vendors soon.
The bar will be called "Dear James", like Lawrence Hall, is named after Capt. James Lawrence - Lawrenceville's namesake.
"Dear James will be a full bar, but on draft we will feature exclusively Pittsburgh-based breweries (everything else is available in bottles or cans)," said Minarik
Built in the 1890s, Minarik says they want to preserve the history of the building while opening it up to the public.
Lawrence Hall will open in the first half of 2024. As early as Valentine's Day but more likely in March.
Follow Lawrence Hall on Instagram for the latest updates.
