Keane’s Tavern, Jacksonville’s newest hotspot for Irish fare, live music, and entertainment, officially opened on Friday, October 31 st , at 315 E. Bay Street. Food service will begin in a few weeks. Keane’s Tavern has secured born-and-bred Jacksonville chef Joseph Lennon to helm its kitchen. And he’s eager to make his mark on his hometown.
“I believe Jacksonville deserves a strong food culture, and it’s an exciting time to be in the city,” says Chef Joseph Lennon in a statement. “I hope to create a special environment here at Keane’s, one where young cooks can come and learn. I want to do what others have done for me: be a catalyst for the next generation of amazing chefs in Jacksonville. I’m excited to see Keane’s Tavern thrive and so grateful to be a part of it from the start.”
Chef Lennon began his culinary journey as a kid, working in restaurants managed by his family at the Jacksonville Landing. He is passionate about honoring and showcasing the work of small farmers and connecting food to community. His vision for Keane’s is to honor the restaurant’s Irish roots with a scratch kitchen that marries traditional flavors and dishes with local ingredients.
Keane’s Tavern opened its doors on Friday, October 31 st , offering a full bar, live music, sports, and more. Once open, Keane’s Tavern will have a weekly schedule of entertainment, featuring televised football on Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays, Service Industry Nights on Tuesdays, ‘80s and Ladies Night on Wednesdays, Karaoke on Thursdays, and live music and DJs on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. They will also host special events throughout the year.
“We’re ready to open the doors and let Jacksonville see what we’ve been working on,” says Evan Rajta, co- owner of Keane’s Tavern. “We designed this to be a true neighborhood place, where locals can come relax after work, catch some live music, and eat a really good meal.” Co-owner Eric Hoyt agrees, “We love creating spaces where people can come and be their authentic selves. We want to be your favorite place to hang, the spot you want to call your own.”
Keane’s Tavern is the newest venture by Eric Hoyt, Evan Rajta, Eric Fuller, Aleksander Lukaj, and their business partners. They are part of the group behind Decca Live, SIP Cocktail Bar, and Besa Bakery & Tea Room Speakeasy.
