Atwood’s Tavern, a restaurant, bar and music club near Cambridge’s Inman Square, plans to close March 31, according to a post Wednesday on its website.
Owners plan to sell so the space at 877 Cambridge St., in the Wellington-Harrington neighborhood, stays a “neighborhood spot,” according to the post: “ While we don’t know yet who will be picking up the mantle, we are confident that they will provide the neighborhood with the community space it deserves.”
The OverDraught, Eddie’s, The Willow Café and Smitty’s were cited as similar businesses once in the building, putting Atwood’s in a tradition of cozy restaurants.
Jason Alves, executive director of the East Cambridge Business Association, said the business and its owners would be missed. “Atwood’s is a huge staple in the community. They’ve done a nice job building up the local music scene and are great business owners,” he said, citing Atwood’s support of neighborhood and nearby school programs. “Hopefully the next business to move in will have the same mindset.”
“It’s pretty shocking news, but I wish them good luck,” Alves said. “Running a restaurant is really hard right now.”
The tavern opened in 2006, run by Patrick Magee and Ryan Magee in a location that had been shuttered for more than a year. It was a family business, launched with a loan from parents and plotted from their home upstairs in the same building, according to a 2010 visit to the License Commission to add another hour of service. The request had overwhelming neighborhood support.
“We would like to wholeheartedly thank everyone who has been a part of our community over the past 16 years,” the post says. “Atwood’s wouldn’t be Atwood’s without all of you. So, if you get the chance, come by in the next month to say farewell.”
A message was left Wednesday by phone looking for more information.
A stronger
Please consider making a financial contribution to maintain, expand and improve Cambridge Day.
We are now a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and all donations are tax deductible.
Please consider a recurring contribution.
I mean it’s beyond sad at this point what’s happened to the CAMBRIDGE small businesses.
Drive bike walk over to Arlington – Somerville – Belmont all are ok or great.
The city is a shell of what it used to be 10-20yrs ago.
Progress they tell us!!
That’s sad to read. The place was a great scene.
The owners probably wanted to gtfo out before the city hit up with like $50K and change so that we can “be the at forefront of climate change”.
It is sad to see Atwood’s go. The message from the Council and City is pretty clear to small businesses. They just aren’t valued in any meaningful way. My guess is you’re only going to see more closures and sales through this year and next.
Run Pat run lol.
Or get “great” deals on commercial space find a bank or weed shop or plastic pylon manufacturer to provide all the pylons for the bike lanes.