Harlem's Hogshead Tavern Closes Permanently Due To Pandemic

HARLEM, NY — The Hogshead Tavern in Hamilton Heights closed permanently on Monday, its management announced, as the popular Hamilton Heights craft beer bar became the latest neighborhood spot to fall victim to the pandemic.

"To all of our Hogshead friends and family, we sadly regret to inform you that we will be closing our doors permanently as of today," reads a message posted early Monday on the bar's social media accounts.

"Unfortunately the effects of COVID have had a devastating effect on us just as it has for many restaurants and small business across the city."

Hogshead opened in September 2014 on Hamilton Terrace, just south of 143rd Street. Praised by the Harlem Times as the neighborhood's best craft beer bar, co-owners Tara Wholley and Leigh Corcoran boasted of having 20 craft beers on tap, as well as brunch and shareable plates.

News of the closure was first reported by Harlem Bespoke, which said the bar's Sunday night drag shows and bloody mary brunches had helped "brighten up a sleepy block in Hamilton Heights."

The pandemic has taken a devastating toll on the city's restaurants and bars, whose owners have protested a lack of aid from the federal government.

Industry advocates have called on the U.S. Senate to pass the RESTAURANTS Act, a bill with bipartisan support that passed the House in October and would provide more than $100 billion in grants to independent restaurants, small chains and catering companies.

News that indoor dining in New York City would be allowed to resume at 25 percent capacity on Feb. 14 was apparently not enough to keep Hogshead alive.

"We want to thank all of our wonderful patrons and the amazing diverse people of Hamilton Heights for welcoming and supporting us since 2014," the bar wrote.

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• Pandemic Closes 2 More Harlem Coffee Shops: 'Feels Like Tragedy'