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The Campbell Apartment in Grand Central Terminal has played many roles over the years. It’s been an office, jail, storage area and—for the last 17 years—an upscale bar. Now, it’s about to enter a new chapter.
Current owner Mark Grossich was outbid when the venue’s lease was up earlier this year, and the MTA decided to go with new vendor Scott Gerber (he’s reportedly paying $3.7 million more than the current operator.) The Gerber Group also owns Mr. Purple and Irvington at the W hotel.
The deal wasn’t without some controversy. Grossich claims that the MTA did not allow him to make a counter-offer after 17 years spent restoring the venue, and is currently appealing the eviction. While that decision is awaited, the bar will still be closing tonight.
The space itself is landmarked, but the new owner is able to make changes to the carpeting, furniture, bar, lighting and walls that were installed when the bar was renovated in 1998. The new bar in the space is currently aiming for a fall or winter opening.