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Channel District

Bennigan's set to open Channelside franchise

A co-owner says the new restaurant will be larger than most branches and offer waterfront views.

By MICHAEL CANNING
Published February 4, 2005

Irish-themed Bennigan's Grill & Tavern is opening at Channelside, just in time for St. Patrick's Day.

Channelside spokeswoman Susan Martin said the 9,400-square-foot bar and restaurant is scheduled to open March 7 on the second level, above Stumps Supper Club. Its addition will bring Channelside's occupancy rate to more than 80 percent, an all-time high.

The news comes on the heels of last week's announcement that the downtown, waterfront entertainment complex is up for sale.

Franchise co-owner Mitch Walker said most tables will have views along Garrison Channel. An outside patio bar will overlook the Port of Tampa and Channelside's courtyard. The restaurant will have seating for 260 inside, 22 at the outside bar and 36 at the patio tables.

The location will seat 20 percent more than the average Bennigan's, Walker said. "It won't be a cookie cutter Bennigan's."

But the menu and decor will be typical of the restaurant chain, which features burgers, ribs and sandwiches in a neighborhood tavern setting.

News of Channelside's possible sale doesn't concern Walker.

"I'm really fired up about Channelside," he said. "I think the people (there) are doing a great job."

Walker owns the restaurant with business partner Jim Tully. The two also own the exclusive development rights for Bennigan's in Pasco, Citrus, and Hernando counties.

Opening in 2001, Channelside initially struggled to garner tenants and visitors. Slowly, its fortunes changed as a second entrance was added and residential development on nearby Harbour Island and the adjacent Channel District escalated.

Channelside's owner, ORIX Real Estate Equities, has declined to elaborate on the sale, but other real estate experts indicate that now is a good time to get top dollar for Florida shopping centers located near growing population centers.

The Channelside Bennigan's will be open daily from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Information from Times' archives was used in this report.

[Last modified February 3, 2005, 10:01:08]