Dutch Kills Centraal in LIC is Permanently Closing, & Hosting a ‘Goodbye’ Sidewalk Sale This Weekend

COVID-19 has had undeniably detrimental effects on local businesses, and we’ve seen that start to take the form of closures all around NYC. Sadly, one of those is homey gastropub Dutch Kills Centraal in Long Island City.

Though they didn’t mention the pandemic specifically, the owners shared the sad news on their website earlier this week. “With a sad heart and much soul searching, we are unfortunately not able to re-open Dutch Kills Centraal and have closed permanently,” they wrote. “We thank you, our patrons and community, and, are moved by the emotions expressed from neighbors and friends in sharing their disappointment at our ceasing of business.”

The pub had historic roots—the owners believe it began its life as Victor’s Bar & Grill in the 1940s, where Jackie Gleason was rumored to be a regular. They kept the original Arts and Craft tiles and Art Deco mahogany bar that could date back further, to 1915-1925. Over the years it was also known as “Scotty’s” (where Rosanne Barr did stand-up), and then “Just a Pub,” until it closed in the 1980s.

That was until Queens native Dominic Stiller and his wife Jean came across it and sought to create a welcoming neighborhood spot with amazing food and drink. They completely renovated the building and made “Dutch Kill Centraal,” offering innovative comfort foods utilizing local purveyors and organic products, local beers on tap, and completely sustainable furnishings.

https://twitter.com/gabriellelui/status/773644625944973312

Even though you’ll no longer be able to grab a pint at the neighborhood haunt, you can still bring a piece of it home. The restaurant is hosting a “goodbye sidewalk sale” on Saturday, June 20 from 10am to 4pm. They are liquidating their commercial grade quality kitchen and restaurant equipment, as well as furniture (you can see the list here and email them if interested). As for the sidewalk sale, they’ll be selling the rest of their miscellaneous items including glasses, plates, cold beer and “fresh wine bottles too numerous to list.”

“Please stop by, raise a glass and bid us farewell!” they said. Here’s more info if you’d like to do so. They are located at 38-40 29th Street, Long Island City, NY 11101.

We wish them the best of luck for whatever else is in store!