First Pics: Triangle Tavern now open at 1338 S. 10th St.

After being closed for more than six years, Triangle Tavern is open under new ownership at 1338 S. 10th St.

The restaurant and bar has been a neighborhood staple since 1933. Since the Triangle has so much history to it, new owners Stephen Simons and David Frank, who also own Cantina, Royal Tavern and other restaurants and bars, aimed to keep much of the history of the original establishment, but while giving the spot a bit of a facelift.

If you recall, last June we first saw some movement happening at the location, but it wasn’t until February that we found out more about the plans for reopening. As of last Sunday, May 10, Triangle Tavern is officially open for business.

The new restaurant includes relics of the old days of the Triangle, mixed with new upgrades. While renovations were made throughout, the bar is pretty much consistent with the look of the old days of the Triangle. The kitchen received a much-needed upgrade prior to reopening the establishment.

On the walls you can see plenty of old and new photos and artworks that connects the past with the new era of the Triangle. Some photos and relics throughout were discovered in the basement of the establishment.

Previously Triangle was known for its live performers, including singers like Tony Dell, who performed regularly at the spot. Although there won’t be any live performances at the newly reopened Triangle Tavern, the decor and a jukebox in the front of the establishment will keep the music history of the spot alive.

Inside, the space is pretty dark, with rope lights and candles set up throughout. Triangle Tavern hopes to add outdoor seating eventually to give a slightly brighter option, but if you recall, the community feedback on that wasn’t entirely positive with many neighbors voicing concerns about noise. If they are able to gain the proper approval for the outdoor seating and awning, they would also like to add some bike racks to the exterior.

Triangle Tavern is most frequently known for dishes like the mussels in red or white sauce and roast beef. Those old standard dishes from the Triangle are still being offered at the restaurant, in addition to some new dishes on the menu by Chef Mark McKinney.

The drink menu includes your traditional bar faire, in addition to some specialty drinks for the Triangle. Just like the rest of the restaurant, the bar includes a mix of old and new. Drinks include cocktails like the Rosie, made with Purus Vodka, Cherry and Mint Simple, which is named after a former server at the restaurant, and some new alcoholic beverages like the adult water ices.

Triangle Tavern is open from 4 p.m. through 2 a.m. daily. You can find more information on Triangle Tavern’s Facebook page.

Are you excited to check out the revamped Triangle Tavern? Any neighbors have any old memories of the spot?