Two Duluth Restaurants Rebranding With New Names + Images

The two restaurants in one of Duluth's signature building are getting facelifts and new names. By this summer, tourists and locals alike should expect to see something different from the Radisson's Bowery Bros. Pub and the rotating JJ Astor.

Owners of the Radisson have contracted with a Twin Cities restaurant consulting firm to rebrand JJ Astor into The Apostle Supper Club and Piano Lounge and the current Bowery Bros. Pub into False Eyedoll - a retro-inspired Tiki bar.  According to an article in the Duluth News Tribune, Purpose Driven Restaurants - the design firm doing the work - anticipates to have the changes in place by April, with work starting within the month.

To get ready for the changes and to get a feel for what Duluth restaurant customers were looking for, Purpose Driven Restaurants has been operating both establishments for the "last few months". The companies Chief Executive Officer - Brian Ingram - has experience in similar rebrands:

"(Ingram) has more than three decades of experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry...work(ing) closely with the Food Network and Travel Channel.  (His) plans (include) collaborat(ion) with chefs he knows through his network to vamp up menu offerings and even potentially offer special nights with them as guest chefs."

The change will start on the top floor, as JJ Astor transforms into The Apostle.  Ingram plans to change the layout around a little.  While the restaurant will still feature its signature 90 minute rotation, the booths will be turned to face out the windows so that customers can take in more of the views.  They also plan to incorporate "a lot of greenery, because in the winter it can 'feel like you're at the top of an ice cube'".

After The Apostle is finished, work will continue on the ground floor of the Radisson - as Bowery Bros. converts in False Eyedoll Tiki bar.  Along with the usual Tiki-atmosphere, there are plans to incorporate a hockey theme into the decorations and menu.