The site has been dormant since 2013, when J-Alans closed after failing to pay back taxes. Since then, the building's board of directors had been stepping up their efforts to attract another tenant for the space, accepting a proposal by Luke Feerer.
Feerer, who had originally planned to call the business Tower Food & Spirits, decided instead to name it after his 9-year-old daughter.
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“I think this building could be a major corner for entertainment eventually,” Feerer said during a tour of the space this week. “I know that Talbot Tower is currently in a re-branding effort of the building, and I’m excited to be a part of it.”
The first phase of Hannah’s will include installing a kitchen in the basement, which already has some of the necessary components, including a grease trap, ice machine and wash station.
“That really puts us ahead of the game,” Feerer said.
His plan is to serve light food items and coffee for those working in and around Talbot Tower in the mornings, while offering lunch in the afternoons. Feerer said he has not yet decided on what food will be offered, but that he is consulting with local food experts before solidifying the menu.
“It’s like there’s a sub shop on every corner. I don’t want to give (customers) more of what (they’re) already getting,” he explained.
Hannah’s decor is going to be a reflection of Talbot Tower itself, with a nod to the art deco movement.
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"We went with the traditional art deco color palette. We're trying to keep true to that, because this is the Art Deco District. The reason people don't know that is because no one is doing anything with it and I want to change that," Feerer said.
The second phase will include expanding the restaurant space by knocking down a wall to the space next door, which is something previous owners had tried to do in the past but failed.
“Once we launch our kitchen, we’ll launch that as our dining room,” Feerer said.
Patrons will also be able to appreciate their table tops as individual works of art, with a local artist designing the metal coverings. Those coverings will be available for purchase and will be replaced by a new piece as they’re sold.
“Anything I can do to support the local art community is a big influencer in why I’m doing this,” Feerer said.
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Hannah’s will also utilize its stage area for live entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays, with a focus of having shows start earlier for those who don’t enjoy staying out until 2 a.m. to see a band perform.
“Our goal is to be a one-stop place for entertainment downtown,” Feerer added.
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