A unique automotive-themed hospitality concept is set to bring a distinct gearhead vibe to Jefferson Parish. The Body Shop Bar & Grill is preparing to open its doors in mid-October at 2229 Hickory Ave. in Harahan, it will turn a former local bar into a full-service concept that merges classic car culture with drinks and elevated pub fare.
The concept is spearheaded by a partnership team that includes co-owners Lori Gremillion, Brad Johnson, and Chris Timpone, the latter two of whom operate Street Dreams New Orleans in Kenner. Capitalizing on their shared background in both the automotive and service industries, the owners designed the venue to offer a dual experience unlike anything else in the area.
The building will feature a front bar and grill area, while the rear warehouse space will house an active automotive body shop and paint booth. Guests can catch action inside the garage and watch live music on an outdoor stage through a garage door installation.
“It will be half body shop and paint booth, and half bar and grill,” Gremillion said. “So, the idea is that, Mister Joe from down the street can pop the top on a Budweiser and go hang out and watch, you know, a ‘57 Chevy come back to life.”
To bring their concept to life, the owners performed major renovations to the former McKinley’s Irish Pub.
“There was no kitchen here previously,” Gremillion noted. “It was just kind of like a dingy room with a refrigerator and an air fryer. But now, we’ve made a full kitchen, with a walk-in cooler and walk-in freezer.”
The Body Shop will dish out high-end steakburgers, prime cuts of meat, charcuterie, and scratch-made Louisiana classics. Complementing the food menu is an inclusive beverage program inspired by the ownership team’s lifestyle.
“We’re sober owners,” Gremillion explained. “So, we’re going to have a healthy mocktail menu as well as dirty sodas, and then obviously your general bar fare.”
The pub is aiming for a soft opening in mid-October and a grand opening in December will debut the outdoor stage with live music.
