Abbey Tavern, a beloved Murray Hill sports bar, has closed after failing to secure a new rent agreement with its landlord
New York City: Third Avenue in Murray Hill is a bit quieter now that Abbey Tavern has closed its doors. This popular sports bar had been a neighborhood staple for over 60 years.
A manager, who didn’t want to give his name, mentioned that the owners couldn’t agree on rent with KSR, the landlord that owns many properties in Manhattan.
A sign on the door announced the closure at 354 Third Ave. The building above the bar is a co-op with 40 apartments.
Abbey Tavern opened in 1963 and was known for its 12 large-screen TVs, making it a go-to spot for sports fans. Regulars were shocked, especially those planning to watch the College Football Playoff National Championship Game.
One customer expressed their heartbreak, saying, “We’re devastated. My wife and I came here to watch everything. Our home TV is like one-third the size of the ones here.”
When it first opened, the bar had giant paintings of ocean liners and cozy booths that customers loved. It changed hands in 2004 and became Vertigo and Manhattan Brewhouse before the original owners returned in 2014.
They brought back the Abbey Tavern name, but the ocean liner theme was gone. They even advertised happy hour specials right up until the end.
Now, the once-bustling bar is dark, and KSR has listed the 4,000 square-foot space for rent on its website. They didn’t respond to requests for comments.
