A popular Wellesley restaurant is preparing to bring its Southwestern-inspired menu to Newton Centre.
According to Fig City News, Lockheart Restaurant is taking over the historic former railroad station at 70 Union Street, beside the Newton Centre Green Line stop. The landmark building has sat vacant for nearly four years following the closure of Jamie’s on Union in 2022.
Public records show that Union Depot LLC, doing business as Lockheart, filed an application for a liquor license, common victualler license, and entertainment license in April. The project has been in the works for some time, with city records indicating that the property has undergone a comprehensive renovation since 2024, including demolition work, a roughly $1.2 million restaurant buildout, and fire-protection system upgrades.
Lockheart first opened in Wellesley Square in the summer of 2022, gaining popularity with its Southwestern-style offerings. The menu features an extensive selection of tacos, nachos, quesadillas, empanadas, salads, bowls, and starters such as chicken tortilla soup, wings, and street corn. Weekend brunch and craft cocktails have also become staples of the concept.
The Newton location cleared a major hurdle on June 16, when the Board of License Commissioners unanimously approved its license in a 3-0 vote. The approval remains contingent upon the submission of several outstanding documents, including updated TIPS certification, proof of insurance, workers’ compensation information, and a certificate of occupancy.
The restaurant must also receive final approval from the state Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission before opening its doors. During the licensing hearing, the applicants’ attorney said the team expects to open just weeks after that approval.
According to application materials, the restaurant will accommodate up to 86 guests indoors and feature a seasonal outdoor patio. Proposed operating hours could extend as late as 1 a.m to accommodate World Cup matches and other late-night sporting events. The patio would close by 10 p.m., while the kitchen is expected to remain open until at least 10 p.m. nightly.
What Now Boston briefly spoke with Lockheart partner and proposed manager of record Mark Hicklin, who said he was not yet ready to share additional details about the project.
