The Brass Elephant, a one-time Charles Street fine dining standby, closed in 2009. For many years after that, it sat empty. It was even listed for sale as a potential residential home at one point. But in early 2016, the nearly 150-year-old building at 924 N. Charles Street will once again be inhabited by a restaurant.
According to the Baltimore Business Journal, the restaurant will be called The Elephant, and will sport a dramatic look. The first floor dining room is being designed to resemble the inside of an oyster, while the second floor oyster bar will have jet black walls and a white marble bar. The restaurant’s new owners, Steven and Linda Rivelis, own a consulting firm; they have experience with renovation, but have never operated a restaurant before. (The couple had their wedding ceremony in the original Brass Elephant, however.)
Will the overall effect be classy or tacky? You’ll be able to find out in early 2016, when the restaurant is slated to open.
I’m happy for the restaurant to have a new life — it was such a Baltimore institution! And what’s not to like about an oyster bar, and maybe the black walls will make me look younger and thinner?? I’m IN! (That being said, I do worry about the owners never having run a restaurant before — that might not bode well long-term…)
Thanks for your positive view. It will be stunning. As for running a restaurant: our chef and general manager have been associated with some of Baltimore’s top dining venues for many years … And we are also being mentored by two of our city’s best know and most successful restauranteurs. We are in great hands.
There is no doubt … It will be stunning!
It will be stunning. As for running a restaurant: our chef and general manager have been associated with some of Baltimore’s top dining venues for many years … And we are being mentored by two of our city’s best know and most successful restauranteurs. In addition, Linda and I have launched and managed five highly successful business, one of which was recognized by Inc magazine as “one of the top inner city companies in the US” … The Elephant is in great hands.
Well, I for one will definity check it out!! Best of luck in this exciting new venture.
It would be great to see that space used to another fine dining establishment. I have fond memories of The Brass Elephant, especially the rose petal salad it served on special occasions. Best of luck to the new owners.
Wonderful! Takes a strong belief in what one wants to do..,also… $$$$..this town, however, is true to a good product…you perform, we will come…advise…test your market..want more advice..let me know
Linda and Steve,
Congrats on the new acquisition. I have no doubt the restaurant will be a great success. I’m looking forward to dining there with the family.