This is becoming sadly formulaic. Hot on the heels of my post last night bemoaning the absence of the Cedar Tavern, I walked home from work this evening to discover that Village on West 9th Street -- another of my favorite bar/restaurants -- had also closed for good. No goodbye sign or nothing. The awning's been removed and the windows have been all blocked. I haven't the foggiest what happened, but it's gone.
While it wasn't always the cheapest of joints, it was a regular stop for the wife & I. Formerly a storied gay bar called The Lion, Village exuded a great, authentic vibe of old New York City. I remember many a boozy evening spent in those booths in the front. You can take a look at pictures of the interior here. The place always seemed to do some swift business. I can't imagine that they weren't turning a profit. I'm now very bummed.
In incongruous tribute....
Website says July 25th was their last night and the landlord doubled the rent.....same sad old story. I remember looking at that place one night when I got out of the PATH station and wondering how long it would last.....
Posted by: hntrnyc | August 21, 2009 at 08:19 PM