Save Newport Real News in Newport Beach
It’s been a rough few weeks for restaurants in Newport. First a huge fire at Ho Sum Bistro, then a fire at Bayside Restauraunt, and this morning, a car drove into the side of the place best known for their famous burgers, but most frequented for their beers– Cassidy’s. The accident occurred just after 9am this morning as the Prius from AAA jumped the curb and smashed into the side of the establishment. The cause is not known at this time, but thankfully, nobody was hurt.
I have reached out to Cassidy’s management to see if this damage is structural or just cosmetic, which will determine how quickly they will be able to re-open. Hopefully, the damage is not as bad as it looks.
UPDATE @3:06pm
After speaking with the manager, it sounds like the establishment will be under repair for about 2-3 weeks. Additionally, employee Eugene Milburn added a bit more history: Apparently the rings attached to the building outside were designed as horse-ties. Talk about classic! (also added additional photos)
Anyone can see that the reason Cassidy’s gets its strange shape is because it is located on a narrow strip between two roads– but what many people don’t know is that the building itself was purpose-built: It was one of the major stops for the old historic Red Line train on its way down from LA to the final stop near Balboa Pavilion. It contained a hair-cutting venue along with newspaper stands, and eventually turned into a bar/restaurant. Originally, the seating area was on the opposite side of the bar, and patrons would walk where there is now a kitchen area, but to make room for the kitchen expansion.
The pictures have been pouring in, and I am including them here.
