Manuel's Tavern To Regulars: It'll Be OK

ATLANTA, GA -- Ever since Manuel’s Tavern closed a few weeks back for renovations, many of its faithful have been worried that the authenticity and originality of the legendary watering hole will be lost when the business reopens later this year.

Not to worry, says one of the investors in Green Street Properties, and a man who knows a thing or two about Atlanta itself.

Steve Selig, CEO of Selig Enterprises, says authentic institutions like Manuel’s Tavern are important to the fabric of the city, as quoted by Atlanta Eater.

Green Street Properties is Manuel’s Tavern new owner, while the Maloof family will continue to operate the establishment. Green Street is upgrading its HVAC system and refurbishing other parts of the business. The watering hole is expected to be open perhaps by April 2016.

Manuel’s Tavern opened in 1956 after DeKalb County’s Manuel Maloof purchased Harry’s Delicatessen at the corner of North and North Highland Avenues. Maloof, now referred to as the godfather of Georgia politics, later became CEO of DeKalb County. He died in 2004.

Two longtime patrons have set up a GoFundMe account to help employees with their expenses during their three-to-four-months-long unemployment, according to Atlanta Magazine. More than $5,000 have already been raised, and the goal is raise $1,000 a month for Manuel’s 60 employees.

When all of the renovations are completed, Manuel’s will have lost about 2,000 square feet of interior space, but added an outdoor patio. Nest door will be a six-story structure that will include parking, retail space, and apartments.