Key Takeaways
- The Englewood entertainment complex in Derry Township is condensing its operations, with the Tavern restaurant closing for daily dining service and opening only for private events.
- The Farmhouse restaurant is expanding its hours and menu, incorporating popular items from the Tavern and adding a happy hour.
- The decision was made to streamline operations and focus on sustainability, with a growing demand for private events and the Farmhouse.
- The Englewood will continue to host live music events, with a lineup of upcoming concerts announced.
- The complex retained all full-time staff and will continue to operate as a central hub for customers.
Introduction to the Changes
Changes are underway at the Englewood entertainment complex in Derry Township, as the facility condenses its operations in the new year. The Tavern restaurant, located inside the main barn on the property, has closed for daily dining service and will now only be open for private events, including concerts. This decision was made to streamline operations and focus on sustainability, as the demand for private events and the Farmhouse restaurant has increased. The Englewood’s founders and partners, Rick Russell and Jeff Sharp, have invested significant time and resources into the facility, which opened in 2020 in a historic renovated barn.
The Evolution of the Englewood
The Englewood has undergone several iterations since its opening, with the Tavern reopening in March 2025 after a five-month closure. The facility has also taken over the neighboring Cocoa Beanery, which now houses the Farmhouse restaurant. The Englewood’s COO, Candy Mellinger, stated that the recent decision to close the Tavern for daily dining service was a matter of sustainability, as the facility noticed an increase in bookings for special events and a demand for the Farmhouse. By bringing the Tavern’s menu and operations over to the Farmhouse, the Englewood is able to expand its offerings and provide a more streamlined experience for customers.
The Farmhouse Expansion
The Farmhouse restaurant has expanded its hours and menu, incorporating popular items from the Tavern and adding a happy hour. The menu includes breakfast foods such as baked oatmeal, French toast dippers, and avocado toast, as well as salads, sandwiches, and flatbreads for lunch and dinner. Mellinger noted that the menu will continue to evolve with expanded offerings in the future. The Farmhouse operates from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, providing a central hub for customers. The addition of a happy hour has also been a success, with Mellinger stating that it has been well-received by customers without compromising the coffeehouse vibe.
Live Music and Private Events
The change in operations will also allow for more live music events at the Englewood, which is a key part of the facility’s business model. Russell stated that private events have become more sustainable and in demand, and that live music was being pushed out as a result. With the Tavern now dedicated to events such as weddings and corporate gatherings, it increases the availability for live music. The Englewood has recently announced a lineup of live music events, including the U2 tribute band U2Topia, The Badlees, Neil Young tribute band Sugar Mountain, and the Old 97s. On concert nights, the Tavern will be open for food and drinks before the shows, providing a unique experience for customers.
Conclusion and Future Plans
The Englewood’s decision to condense its operations and focus on sustainability is a strategic move to ensure the long-term success of the facility. By retaining all full-time staff and continuing to operate as a central hub for customers, the Englewood is committed to providing a high-quality experience for its patrons. With the expanded menu and hours at the Farmhouse, as well as the increased focus on live music and private events, the Englewood is well-positioned for success in the future. As the facility continues to evolve and adapt to changing demands, it is likely to remain a popular destination for customers in the area.