The closure of five nightclubs came as the languishing MacArthur Center went up for sale. The city is resetting its approach to balancing nightlife and safety after a series of shootings while seeking a new strategy for the mall’s central footprint covering roughly six to eight blocks. In the atmosphere of change, developers point to the stability of people still wanting to live downtown as a foundation for the area’s business future.
Brick Anchor Brew House opened in 2016 and focuses on serving "farm to fork" American offerings alongside Virginia-focused brews, according to their website.
Downtown Norfolk's Brick Anchor Brew-House will permanently close on February 3. Proprietor Phil Smith says they're making the announcement early to give their employees time to find a place to go.
City Manager Chip Filer said in the coming weeks and months, downtown businesses must make a presentation on why they should be allowed to continue operating.