It closed last month, but Pazza Luna, a popular Italian eatery in Baltimore?s Locust Point, will be on the auction block on Sept. 7, said auctioneer A.J. Billig.
“This auction presents a remarkable turnkey opportunity for an investor,” said Dan Billing, principal of A.J. Billig & Co. Auctioneers.
“Pazza Luna is an established restaurant with a loyal following, and this neighborhood continues to see rapid redevelopment. Residential and commercial projects are being completed every day and new homes are under construction right across the street,” Billing said.
Pazza Luna was a mainstay in the neighborhood and reflected the detailed commitment of longtime owner Kim Acton, who sold the restaurant a year ago, Billing said.
A couple bought the restaurant about a year ago and “were doing a good job,” Billing said, but the time commitment became too much.
“I think they want to auction it and move on to other opportunities,” Billing said.
From time to time, restaurants change ownership, but it usually is not a reflection of the survivability of a restaurant, said Licia Spinelli, director of marketing for the Restaurant Association of Maryland.
“One of the great things about the restaurant industry is that many historical restaurants get bought and rebound under new owners,” Spinelli said. “We hope the new owners of Pazza Luna will have much success.”
Pazza Luna is located at 1401 E. Clement St. at the corner of Decatur Street.
The facade of the building “is replete with Sopranos kitsch, Sinatra keepsakes and signature stars and half moon decor,” according to the auction announcement.
Everything inside the restaurant will be auctioned, including a 12-seat oak bar with a granite top, ceiling fans, tables, chairs, china, glassware, kitchenware, oven, microwave, cash register system, two espresso/cappucino machines, walk-in cooler, wine chiller, pasta machine, office furniture and computer.
“It was a great Italian bistro with a great atmosphere,” Billing said.
The auction will be held at 11 a.m. Sept. 7 at the restaurant.
