Elbow Room, a neighborhood bar, at 5225 Kearny Villa Rd, this week announced it has permanently closed its doors. Elbow Room had been in business for nine years, and next January would have celebrated a decade of service.
Ownership announced the news on its social media citing hardships brought on by the novel coronavirus pandemic.
“On January 2, 2012, Elbow Room SD opened its doors to you…the people who would become our 1000s of dear friends, neighbors, family and colleagues,” the announcement states. “…We chose to adhere to the regulations we were given and it has been 324+ days since COVID-19 first shut our Elbow Room doors.”
In a separate message posted to the bar’s Facebook page, Elbow Room owners cite “a lack of relief from our landlord, skyrocketing rent and unrelenting rules and regulations” as the reason for closing, saying the conditions are “no longer sustainable.”
Elbow Room might not be gone for good, however. “Please know that if, or perhaps where an opportunity arises, Elbow Room San Diego may someday return,” the announcement states. Elbow Room will keep its website and social media active for 60 days so that patrons can “save the pictures and memories you’ve shared with us.”
Elbow Room’s landlord has already listed the space for rent. The rate for the 5,242 square-foot space is “available upon request” and is negotiable, according to for-lease materials.
