New Church Cafe To Open Soon

Neighbors in the Kensington Facebook group have been salivating over this sign for Church Cafe Wine Bar since the end of November, when someone spotted it above 416 Church Avenue, between E 5th and 4th Streets, up the block from Moondos Grill. Other than the sign, there was no indication of what was going into in the space, which most recently held Plaza 5 de Mexico, or when it might open.

Finally last Friday, the iron gate guarding the front door was raised and two workmen welcomed me inside. They told me it’ll open soon after the new year, but it looks like they have some work to do.

Rumor had it that Kevin Ryan, the owner of Denny’s Steak Pub (106 Beverley Rd at McDonald), was opening a “satellite” bar. “Not true,” he said when I called to ask. “It’s a good idea,” he added. “Wish I’d thought of it.”

According to the Department of Buildings, work is being done in the space to turn it into a new restaurant and wine bar, and a liquor license is currently pending with the New York State Liquor Authority.

We’ll let you know when we hear anything more about the space and its opening date, but if you hear something, let us know at editor@kensingtonbk.com.