Keane’s Tavern to Open Halloween Weekend at Historic Hutchinson-Suddath Building
JACKSONVILLE, Florida (September 22, 2025) – The East Bay Street neighborhood of Jacksonville will soon have a new neighborhood hotspot for pub fare, live music, and nightlife. Keane’s Tavern is planning to open Halloween Weekend at 315 East Bay Street, with a menu featuring a selection of tavern favorites, local and imported beers, and fresh twists on classic cocktails. Keane’s Tavern is the newest addition to the family of businesses on Bay Street, aiming to create a dynamic epicenter of entertainment and community gathering.
“It’s really exciting to see our vision really come together,” says Evan Rajta, co-owner of Keane’s Tavern. “Our group went into this project with a comprehensive vision, to create a diverse hub of social amenities for downtown Jacksonville. We’ve also been very focused on preserving these historic properties and revitalizing the economic landscape of Bay Street. It’s been a true collaborative effort by our team and families. That’s why this property holds special meaning. It’s named after my wife’s family, the Keanes. I wanted to pay tribute to their support over the years.”
Keane’s Tavern is designed to be an intimate space, inspired by Ireland’s homey pubs but with modern comforts. It features a long bar, a wall of cozy booths, table seating, a generous lobby, and a brand-new kitchen. Patrons can play on a row of pool tables or enjoy a full schedule of live music. Keane’s Tavern also plans to host Irish-themed special events (hello St. Paddy’s Day!), trivia nights, Irish music jam sessions, and collaborations with local breweries. The menu is designed to appeal to a variety of tastes. Authentic Irish classics, such as Irish Sausages and Shepherd’s Pie, are offered alongside fresh salads, Fried Pickles, and juicy Double-Stacked Burgers.
“We’re proud to be part of such a dynamic and welcoming business community on the downtown waterfront,” says co-owner Eric Hoyt. “Our goal is to fit seamlessly into the existing landscape, offering activities and expanded options for locals and visitors alike.”
Keane’s Tavern joins a suite of businesses dreamed up by Eric Hoyt, Evan Rajta, Aleksander Lukaj, and their business partners. The group made a splash in downtown Jacksonville when they opened Decca Live, followed closely by SIP Cocktail Bar, and the soon-to-open Besa Bakery & Tea Room Speakeasy. Keane’s Tavern occupies the first floor of the historic Hutchinson-Suddath Building. Constructed in 1910 for the Hutchinson Shoe Company, it was purchased in 1931 by one of Jacksonville’s most prominent businesses, the Suddath Moving and Storage Company. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in October 2007.
ABOUT KEANE’S TAVERN: Keane’s Tavern is an authentic Irish pub located in the heart of downtown Jacksonville. With a menu of authentic Irish classics, local and imported beers, and craft cocktails, Keane’s is an inviting space for dining, drinks, and entertainment. It will be located at 315 East Bay Street in Jacksonville. Photos to accompany this release may be found here. For hours and exact opening date and time, follow along on Instagram @keanes_tavern
