We’ve all walked past that storefront. You know the one. First, it was a bar. Then it was an Indian restaurant. Then a burger joint. It’s the neighborhood retail space that’s consistently changing hands.
So-called ‘cursed’ storefronts and why they can’t keep a steady tenant have been the subject of everything from “Seinfeld” episodes to actual economic studies over the years. But for locals, they can often be a headache that’s hard to cure for both real estate professionals and the community alike.
While some insist unlucky retail spaces are merely superstition, the revolving door at 247 Washington Street in Downtown Jersey City over the years is undeniable. Longtime residents will remember Nicco’s and York Street Tavern from the 2000s, while Park & Sixth Gastropub operated out of the site until early last year. The replacement, a cocktail bar named The Draper, lasted less than four months after opening their doors in 2016, and the property has remained vacant ever since.
But now, another restaurant looks to be moving into the space. Details about the project are scarce, but construction permits were posted at the site back in May for a restaurant called “Buddy’s” and some demolition work has been performed in the building.
The storefront at 247 Washington is two floors of over 2,700-square feet and features usable space in the basement of the property that was formerly utilized as a game room during The Draper’s run. While the building’s track record might be less than inspiring, here’s hoping that the future Buddy’s will bring some much-needed luck to the property when they open their doors.
