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Brightonians, rejoice: The long-defunct Pig ‘N Whistle Diner could make a comeback. A Facebook post by the Brighton Allston Improvement Association laying out the agenda for a September 7 meeting announced (among other things) the intentions of the owner of 226 N. Beacon St. to renovate the legendary diner. The Pig ‘N Whistle closed in 2002, and the lot has been vacant since then.
A Facebook Live video posted by Beth Gavin, special assistant to the Chief of Housing for Boston, documents the proceedings. In the video, property owner Robert Zoffreo says that aside from some fresh new landscaping and some outdoor seating, he doesn’t plan on messing with the original building’s aesthetic. “What I want to do is keep what’s there, enhance the ‘50s style.”
When asked if he’d keep the original name, Zoffreo demurred: “I’m thinking about that.”
Pig'n Whistle renovation at Brighton Allston Improvement Association - most talked about thing in Brighton since JFK rode by the A&P
Posted by Beth Gavin on Thursday, September 7, 2017
While excited by the prospects of a time-forgotten (and rusty) landmark being restored to its original luster — and by the prospects of adding to their neighborhood another spot to get a decent omelet — Brighton residents weren’t without their questions. One resident wondered if Zoffreo planned to lower the sign at the entrance of the property’s parking lot, worrying that if it remained at its current height, it would remain something of an eyesore when compared to the signs of neighboring businesses. Another resident was concerned about what kind of liquor license Zoffreo would seek to acquire but admitted she wasn’t against beer and wine.
“I’m not opposed to beer and wine, because I understand that restaurants survive on income for beer and wine,” she said.
Though the video doesn’t document a vote, a Twitter post from Allston-Brighton Vets (@allbrivets) suggests the proposal passed (along with proposals for Brato Brewhouse & Kitchen and Feng Shui). Eater has reached out to Zoffreo for comment; this story will be updated if new information becomes available.
• Pig 'N Whistle Diner in Brighton May Be Reopening [BRT]
• Long Dormant Brighton Diner Could Reopen — Not Far From Where Brewpub Is Planned [UHub]
