Landmark Pittsburgh Bar To Be Renovated, Reopened

PITTSBURGH, PA — The legendary Hambone's bar in Lawrenceville is on the verge of being purchased by a local investment group that plans to completely renovate the interior and reopen the spot next year. The bar will be known as the Derby.

Jack Welsh of Hazel Green LLC briefed the Lawrenceville Corporation on the project during a Zoom meeting this week.

"We’ve very excited to be going in that space," said Welsh, the co-owner of a chain of axe-throwing locations throughout the area "It has a lot of history."

Hambone's, a Butler Street staple for 35 years that was known for hosting comedy and music events, closed in October 2019 following the sudden death of tavern owner Jeff Holt.

Welsh described the Deby as a "fries-first bar and restaurant with smashburgers." He pledged to restore some of the activities for which Hambone's was known, including live music, open mic comedy nights and game nights.

He described the building as needing considerable work. A total build-out of the interior is planned that will include removing the wall between the bar and dining areas.

There will be an outdoor patio in the rear of the building that will feature turf, tables and fencing.

Because of the extensive renovations that are planned, Welsh said the earliest the Derby might open is June 2023.

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