A press release that arrived this week confirmed rumors that John and Kelly Piccinnini, who own the Clam Bar on Napeague and Sett Coffee in Amagansett, “will be taking over operations” of the Corner Bar in Sag Harbor.
Left off the release was mention of who owns the building, widely said to be Hildreth Real Estate Advisors, whose principal, David Shorenstein, has a house in Sag Harbor.
According to the release, the Piccinninis “are excited to introduce a refreshed concept that honors the Corner Bar’s storied past while ushering in a new era, updating the design, brand, and menu for more modern sensibility.” The Corner Bar’s “signature burger and fish and chips” will remain “alongside new interpretations of modern comfort food.”
If it was the décor that drew you in, fear not, the “existing forest green trim and accents” are going nowhere, and neither is the “iconic mahogany bar,” which will be refurbished “preserving its place as one of Sag Harbor’s beloved gathering spots.” New décorations, such as “retro sports pendants and nautical sailing flags” will add to the “tasteful, nostalgic design.”
The announcement didn’t address the future of the brick wall, colored over the years with the names of Sag Harbor’s children, what would become of the Corner Bar’s longtime staff, or when the community staple would reopen.
The new operators were not available to speak before deadline.
