We've heard those rumors about Nevada Smith's relocating to a larger space for some time now. The rumors have picked up again with the recent arrival of the sidewalk shed in front of both Nevada Smith's and the former Yummy House location.
So far, nothing at the DOB suggests anything out of the ordinary.
Also, earlier this week, workers posted the Asbestos Abatement Notices — often a sign of an impending demolition.
Several former Nevada Smith's regulars claim that the celebrated soccer/football bar will close soon — possibly relocating. There has been some turmoil within the bar in recent years. After a closure for alleged underage drinking in March 2010, management fired two popular bartenders, which prompted a Facebook campaign.
One former regular explained that many of the major supporter clubs have moved on to other venues for the games, leaving behind some tourists and the newbie, throw-a-jersey-on-for-a-day types. Tonight, there is an "appreciation night" at the bar.
Meanwhile, given the proximity of this property — including the parking lot on the corner of East 12th Street that one tipster said has been sold to developers — NYU has been mentioned as the new landowner.
We checked in with James Devitt, deputy director for media relations at NYU, for comment.
"Completely false," he said via email about NYU buying the spaces.
As for Nevada Smith's, the future may be uncertain ... but maybe that's OK in the estimation of one former regular: "I have great memories of that place, but it can't and won't ever be re-created again, and to be honest — I don't want it to be."
