By Jennifer Farnsworth
After decades of sitting vacant, Wallie’s of Greenwich is once again open for business.
Owner Ted Bearor said the restaurant and pub has gone through a complete restoration on both the interior and exterior of the building at 52-54 Main St., while still maintaining the charm for which it was once known.
Bearor said renovating and re-establishing the business was something he felt confident in taking on because of his industry related background. Taking his experience in the restaurant business, Bearor said, and opening up his own place with a silent partner, felt risky at times, but it was well worth the wait.
“I have been director of food and beverage at the Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid as well as the director of operations at the Lodge at Six Flags. Following my hotel work, my business partner and I have been involved in other area restaurants, notably the iconic George’s in Lake George from 2013 to 2020, and finally opening Wallie’s. We have been challenged, along with many other businesses, during this time due to the pandemic, however we have been fortunate to have great staff and community support,” said Bearor.
First-floor renovations included taking out apartments to make room for what is now the pub area. He said during the demolition phase, the building was discovered to have had five to six additions over the past century or so. Other renovations included replacing the roof, kitchen, bathrooms, ventilation equipment, along with adding in a separate walk-in cooler that can hold up to 12 kegs
“Other than a wall-mounted bottle opener, no equipment was salvageable. However, maple dining chairs made in Vermont were restored with new upholstery and wood finishing,” he said. “Each demolition day brought a new surprise. Although, some pleasant surprises, like newspapers from August 1914 reporting on the opening days of WWI, were found, along with other neat finds,” said Bearor.
The dining room decor is centered around a 1940’s theme with dark floors, white walls, and red curtains.
The restaurant is permitted to seat 150, spanning over several different spaces throughout the dining and pub area. They also plan to have outdoor seating in the warmer months.
The menu is currently pub fare, including chili nachos and fried cheese curds, soups, salads and entrees including sandwiches, fish and chips, and hamburgers. The pub area, Bearor said, will have an sports pub vibe.
Wallie’s is open 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday. Seating is first-come, first-served, and there is also take-out. For more information, visit walliesofgreenwich.com or call 518-531-4573.