Newark’s iconic Stone Balloon closing doors
The Stone Balloon Ale House announced Friday that it will not be renewing its lease in Newark, shuttering the iconic restaurant that has existed in the Delaware city for over 50 years.
High 5 Hospitality, owners of the restaurant, announced on Facebook that it would not be renewing its lease, choosing instead to expand its portfolio “through growth across all brands and real estate development.”
“Recognizing the profound impact of this decision on the lives of many, we had tried to announce this after the holidays, allowing our team members to enjoy their festive seasons,” the owners said in a news release. “To facilitate a smooth transition for our Stone Balloon team, we have provided our team members with opportunities to relocate to any of our other brands and locations.”
The original Stone Balloon rock club closed in 2005 after a 33-year run during which hosted musical acts that included Bruce Springsteen, Metallica, Dave Matthews and My Morning Jacket.
A year after it closed, High 5 CEO Bobby Pancake moved to Delaware and opened his first Buffalo Wild Wings in Bear, where he lives.
Pancake later took over the Newark location and reopened it in 2015. It showcased many of the features of the former Stone Balloon, including recognition of the old rock club and extensive food and beer menu.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our loyal Stone Balloon guests for their patronage throughout the years.”
Future High 5 Hospitality ventures
High 5 owners say it recently opened a Buffalo Wild Wings in Milford, and they are looking to expand in the Baltimore area.
High 5 also has several Jersey Mike’s Subs locations in Delaware is slated to open another one on Kirkwood Highway in the spring.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our loyal Stone Balloon guests for their patronage throughout the years,” Pancake said in the news release. “As we close this chapter for the Stone Balloon, we aren’t sure what the future holds, but there is always a possibility that the Stone Balloon may rise again in the future.”
Stone Balloon swag
Although the restaurant has shuttered, the owners are selling remaining Stone Balloon merchandise at its Limestone BBQ and Bourbon location as well as online.
Merchandise includes hats, sweatshirts, t-shirts and mugs. You can visit www.limestonebbqandbourbon.com to learn more.
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