Courtside Bar and Grill Opening Soon at Site of Former "Colonial"

A new establishment at the location of The Colonial bar in downtown Binghamton could be in operation by the end of next month.

Developer Mark Yonaty in May announced plans to open the Courtside Bar & Grill at 56-58 Court Street.

The business is described as "more of a sports bar" than the previous establishment that occupied the space just west of State Street for several years. The Colonial and a co-owned restaurant located next door - Dos Rios Cantina - closed in April 2022.

A sign in the window of the future Courtside Bar & Grill in downtown Binghamton on August 11, 2023. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

Yonaty told WNBF News on Friday that "a major cleanup" is underway inside home of the future Courtside Bar & Grill. He said the work is "more cosmetic" than anything else.

A few additional televisions will be added and some changes will be made to make the place feel like a sports bar.

A ladder in front of the former Colonial bar on Court Street on August 11, 2023. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

Yonaty said in recent days, work has focused on finalizing the logo for the business and developing the menu. He said the establishment received a temporary license from the State Liquor Authority a few weeks ago.

Yonaty expects the business will be able to open next months. He said he anticipates it will be in operation within four to six weeks. Ultimately, he said, "that all depends on staffing."

FLASHBACK: The Colonial debuted a sidewalk dining area in May 2015. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.

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