LOUISVILLE, KY –Tumbleweed Southwest Grill, Mayor Jerry Abramson and the Waterfront Development Corporation today announced plans to build an 11,000 sq. ft. restaurant on the riverfront as part of Phase II development of Louisville’s Waterfront Park along River Road.
“We’re putting a popular hometown restaurant in a beautifully designed building with a spectacular view,” Abramson said. “It’s an exciting combination that’s bound to draw even more people to Waterfront Park and is a fitting compliment to one of our community’s greatest spaces.”
The site, just east of what will become a pedestrian walkway across the river, had originally been slated to house a seasonal cafe. Tumbleweed substantially modified the exterior look of its prototypical structure to better bl/files/storyimages/with the natural and manmade elements of the revitalized riverfront.
The two-story design features retractable glass walls on three sides, allowing open air dining when weather permits, and a year-around panoramic view of the river, downtown skyline and the surrounding park area. The exterior will be finished in creekstone and features flowing awnings with nautical flag cabling.
“We’re very excited about this unique opportunity. Tumbleweed has proven to be a hometown favorite for more than 25 years, and we see this as the crowning jewel in that relationship,” said Terry Smith, CEO and Chairman of the 60+ unit chain. “We think this location will allow our guests to enjoy the Tumbleweed experience in an incredibly beautiful setting.”
When complete, the restaurant will seat 400+ at maximum capacity, with 315 seats enclosed. Plans also call for the structure to house a specialty coffee shop and specialty ice cream store.
Tumbleweed officials project sales to top $4-million, and expect to employ nearly 150 at that location. David C. Mayo, the principal of Vector Realty Advisors represented Tumbleweed in its lease negotiations and acquisition of this prime Waterfront Development Corporation location.
