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Historic Restaurant Space in Downtown Orlando Back on the Market

The historic restaurant space that faces permitting challenges is back on the market in downtown Orlando.

News Summary

A prime restaurant location at 2 S. Orange Avenue in downtown Orlando has returned to the real estate market after being vacant for two years. Previously leased by Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls, the space faced complications with kitchen permitting due to historic building status and previous renovations. As local frustrations rise, First Capital Property Group is seeking new concepts to fill the spot. Meanwhile, Mason’s continues its expansions elsewhere in Florida, adding to its presence in the fast-casual seafood market.

Orlando – A sought-after restaurant space located at 2 S. Orange Avenue in downtown Orlando has returned to the real estate market after remaining vacant for two years. This space was initially leased by Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls, a popular seafood chain known for its lobster rolls. However, the location has been unoccupied with its windows papered shut due to complications surrounding permitting and inspections.

The frustration within the local business community grew as the franchisee encountered numerous challenges primarily related to kitchen permitting. Local sources indicate that issues arose from the renovations performed by a previous tenant that complicated the required modifications for Mason’s operations. The City of Orlando’s Public Information Office reported that the restaurant had to navigate several rounds of inspections to secure the necessary approvals, further delaying the opening of the restaurant.

The specific complications stem from the building’s historic status, where previous renovations resulted in lowered floor-to-floor clearance. As a result, it became more challenging to fit the necessary mechanical equipment needed for a commercial kitchen. Of particular note was the issue concerning a vent for kitchen air that needed to be placed at a pedestrian elevation, which did not receive approval from the city authorities.

First Capital Property Group is now responsible for leasing the prime restaurant space, actively seeking new concepts to replace the vacant storefront. As Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls re-evaluates its plans, the company continues to operate successfully elsewhere. The chain, noted for sourcing its lobster from Maine using environmentally sustainable fishing practices, has a notable presence across the United States with 37 locations currently planned or operational, including seven locations in Florida. The franchise intends to evoke the nostalgic atmosphere of traditional New England lobster shacks in its dining experience.

Despite the setback in Orlando, Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls has three additional locations slated to open soon in the state, including Fort Lauderdale and Durbin Park in Saint Johns. These expansions are part of Mason’s ambitious growth strategy to cement its reputation in the fast-casual seafood market.

As the search for new tenants continues, the situation at 2 S. Orange Avenue highlights the complexities associated with leasing restaurant space in historic districts, particularly when prior renovations complicate new operations. Local businesses are hopeful that the area will soon see revitalization with new dining options that can navigate the permitting process more smoothly and bring fresh energy to downtown Orlando.