A new addition to the booming downtown Pensacola bar and restaurant scene is taking shape in the Seville historic district.
Lucy’s in the Square is taking up residence in a 1,500 square-foot turn-of-the-century cottage at 301 South Adams Street, adjacent to the Pensacola Historic Village and near popular eateries Hub Stacey’s and Dharma Blue, along with the Pensacola Bay Brewery.
Owners Ron and Heather Kilpatrick said they hope Lucy’s will become a new place for people to relax and gather with friends.
“We wanted to open a place that would be like a social, neighborhood gathering place,” said Ron Kilpatrick. “It’s really meant to be a spot where you can have a conversation and meet with friends.”
The new owners kept the bones of the 1920s-era space intact, honoring the character of the historic home. The wooden floors and beadboard will accent the bar area and the exposed fireplace lends an authentic feel. Kilpatrick has owned and managed a cabinetry business for several years and is doing much of the work himself with his wife, Heather who owns and operates Head Trix Salon in Pensacola.
“We really wanted to preserve the character of the house,” said Kilpatrick. “We really want it to feel almost like you’re walking into someone’s home.”
Lucy’s in the Square will open in June at 301 S. Adams Street across from Seville Square in downtown Pensacola. (Drew Buchanan/The Pulse)
Kilpatrick said they are big believers in downtown and enjoy the growth that has centered around Palafox Street and has begun to spread out.
“Downtown has evolved over the last few years,” said Kilpatrick. “Palafox is a great area and I think this area caters more to a relaxed atmosphere.”
In conceiving the idea, they both believed in creating a space they would enjoy and frequent themselves.
“We are really developing the spot we want to go to,” said Heather Kilpatrick. “We’re taking what we love most about downtown and building a place we’d want to go to ourselves.”
The bar and restaurant will feature seating inside and outside, with several dining rooms inside the century-old home. (Drew Buchanan/The Pulse)
Behind the bar, look for 16 different beers on tap, including local favorites and brews from across the region. The menu will feature a plentiful wine selection.
As for food, Lucy’s will offer light, flavorful dishes that make the stay worthwhile. A selection of savory and sweet flatbreads will be offered, along with appetizers they’re dubbing “shareables,” such as cheese plates, tacos, and gourmet sampler platters.
Ron says he cherishes being located off Seville Square, the two-century-old public plaza that was once a military parade ground for the Spanish army and now plays host to dozens of public events annually.
“There’s constantly something going on every weekend, whether it’s a wedding, a festival, or other event,” said Kilpatrick. “It’s a huge plus for us.”
Lucy’s in the Square is named in tribute to Ron and Heather Kilpatrick’s labrador retriever. (Drew Buchanan/The Pulse)
As for the name, the couple chose to name Lucy’s after the their beloved labrador retriever.
“Lucy’s is named after our dog,” said Heather Kilpatrick. “She’ll be 11 this year. It’s really a tribute to her.”
Lucy’s will have seating for 48 inside, with several cozy dining rooms. There will be seating for more than 60 on the wraparound shaded patio.
Although a date has yet to be announced, Lucy’s is set to open in June. The hours will be 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday; 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; and 11 a.m. to midnight, Friday and Saturday.
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