New Restaurant "Coming Soon" To The Brick Hotel In Newtown

NEWTOWN BOROUGH, PA —Many in town have been wondering what’s happening at the Brick Hotel at Washington and State in Newtown Borough.

For the past few weeks, crews have been on the scene working on the restaurant portion of the building, which has been vacant since Rocco’s closed its doors last fall over a dispute with the building’s owner.

Part of the mystery was revealed over the weekend with a Facebook posting by local realtor Madeline Jones, which read, “Coming Soon! Donatelli’s.”

In a brief post, Jones said her client “is working tirelessly on renovations - opening every wall, every ceiling. I will share more in the upcoming weeks,” she posted.

The entrance to the Brick Hotel on Washington. (Jeff Werner/Patch)

The Brick Hotel on Washington Avenue. (Jeff Werner/Patch)

Her post did not say what kind of food the new establishment would be serving, but she did include a depiction of the proposed signage for the new establishment, which offers a hint: “Steaks. Italian. Spirits.”

In response to the posting, several Facebook commenters said they are excited by the news and are looking forward to eating there again.

“So glad someone is using that beautiful space,” posted Rachel. “Can’t wait to check it out. Wishing you all much success!”

Christa posted, “We all were very sad when Rocco’s abruptly closed, and it’s exciting to have a seasoned restaurateur investing in our community. I look forward to welcoming him and his dining experience to Newtown.”

Barbara added, "Looking forward to having another place to go. Best of luck to the new owners."

The posting also drew support from the business community, with the owners of Vecchia Osteria and Santina's Italian Pastry shop wishing the new restaurateurs success.

Rocco’s closed abruptly on Nov. 22 just as the lucrative holiday dining season was getting underway.

The restaurant’s ownership blamed the closure of the popular steak and seafood house on a dispute with its landlord involving the liquor license.

Patch will post additional details when they become available.