The iconic Jack's Oyster House, a staple in downtown Albany for over 100 years, is up for sale. Owner Brad Rosenstein tells NEWS10 that the building went up for sale on Monday.
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- The iconic Jack's Oyster House, a staple in downtown Albany for over 100 years, is up for sale. Owner Brad Rosenstein tells NEWS10 that the building went up for sale on Monday.
Jack's originally closed in August 2022, but it was only supposed to be temporary as the space was going through renovations. Rosenstein said he had every intention of reopening the restaurant, but the plans he had to co-run Jack's with others fell through.
"I had a team in place prior to COVID. Certainly getting through that was a challenging time. Now I’m at the point where I’m older. I’ve been with the restaurant for almost 40 years."
Rosenstein said it takes a lot of work to operate Jack's all year, and it gets more difficult with age. That's why he decided to sell and is asking close to one point four million dollars.
"We just decided that it’s better if someone else comes in and puts their touches on it. It’s really beautiful property and ready to go."
The Jack's Oyster House renovations are on hold until a new owner comes forward, said Rosenstein. He said it’s important to keep the restaurant and building under one ownership. Rosenstein hopes the new owner will keep the restaurant but understands it’s not his choice.
Rosenstein has owned the restaurant for 40 years. His grandfather, Jack, originally opened the eatery in 1913. Jack's Oyster House was set to celebrate its 111th anniversary on January 24.
The New York State Restaurant Association said more business owners are selling or closing their restaurants altogether. With an oversaturated market, Melissa Fleischut, the President and CEO of the association, sees difficulties for all restaurants including Jack's. Even with its ideal location on State Street in downtown Albany and with proven success it could be sitting on the market for some time.
"The industry is probably harder right now than I’ve seen it in a very long time. People are working harder than ever and making less money in the restaurant industry," explained Fleischut.
Just a five-minute drive from Jack's is Allie B's Cozy Kitchen. Although there's a different menu and more casual atmosphere, the owner has the same hope of making a mark in their neighborhood.
“I thank them for what they have gave us. The knowledge to live and grow. So I pray and I see Allie B’s Cozy Kitchen living just like Jack’s Oyster House 110 years. I’m grateful for them," said Allie B. Williams.
