BUFFALO, NY (WKBW) - As expected, the Buffalo Planning Board has given its approval to a small addition to the Swan Lounge, a local landmark that will reborn next year as an upscale restaurant and pub in the Larkin District.
Developer Howard Zemsky said he needed the 1,730-square-foot expansion to house a new elevator and garage for the Swan Lounge building. The plan was unanimously approved by the board during its Sept. 25 meeting.
Zemsky said he expects to re-open the Swan Lounge, located at 716 Swan St., by next spring. Zemsky bought the late-1800s era building last fall and started a series of renovations that will see an upscale restaurant operate on the first floor and a pair of residential units on its upper floors.
Since buying the building, Zemsky has added a new facade, roof and restored its period-style windows.
Originally constructed as the Hydraulic Hotel, the building has gone through a number of changes during its long history.
Zemsky said he is keeping the wooden bar that was a centerpiece to the Swan Lounge in the new restaurant.
