Dewey’s Jazz Lounge (left) co-owner Kenny Lumpkin, seen in this file photo with co-owner Mark Markarian, agreed to return to the License Commission with an update in three months.
Reminder Publishing submitted photo
SPRINGFIELD — Several hours before the clock struck midnight on Dewey’s Jazz Lounge on 232 Worthington St., the License Commission elected to give the owner of the restaurant bar and lounge three months to come back with a status update on the now dormant liquor license.
During the License Commission meeting on April 23, Dewey’s owner Kenny Lumpkin said he needs several months to clear items out of Dewey’s and search for a possible new location in Springfield for the jazz lounge.
He agreed to come back with a status update on the license in three months, but said the process of finding a new spot — if that happens — would take about six months.
The Alcohol Beverages Control Commission said that Lumpkin and the License Commission can continue the liquor license hearing for up to six months, if need be.
“If you guys need a status update in three months, we’re more than happy to do so,” Lumpkin told the commission. “But I do expect this to be about a six-month process, because we also have to find another location, if we’re purchasing or if we’re leasing, which also takes more time.”
The popular downtown Springfield lounge, which opened at 232 Worthington St. in 2021, officially closed its doors on April 23. In a Facebook message on April 9, Lumpkin said the decision was not made by them, and “was not made lightly.”
The restaurant also said on their Instagram that the closure is due to “circumstances beyond our control.”
“We hosted unforgettable performances, uplifted local talent and brought people together in ways that made a lasting impact,” Lumpkin said. “I am deeply proud of the role we played in contributing to the life and energy of downtown.”
Aside from Dewey’s, Lumpkin also co-owned All American Bar, Grill & Patio on 459 Dwight St., but an early December fire closed the restaurant indefinitely (tinyurl.com/7uk54ysm). Several weeks later, Lumpkin shifted some of All American’s menu to Dewey’s.
The License Commission said during the April 23 meeting that Lumpkin would have to come back in front of the commission if he finds a new location in Springfield.
In his Facebook message, Lumpkin said that he looks forward to serving the city through projects, partnerships and other opportunities during the months ahead.
“As a business owner that has been here for four years and has put a lot on the line to sacrifice what we’ve created downtown, I just want to say thank you to you guys,” Lumpkin said to the commission. “Hopefully we can pivot elsewhere, and if not, it’s still a thank you. There’s no bitterness on this.”
