Rockwood Music Hall Extension on Orchard

In the four years since the Thompson LES debuted on the Lower East Side, the backside base at 185 Orchard struggled to attract full-time occupants to the three commercial spaces. Until recently, that is. Landbrot is scheduled to open this week inside the southernmost store and the embattled Ha’chi just celebrated a “grand” reopening in the middle space. But what about the third store, hidden behind brown paper for lord knows how long?

Rockwood Music Hall is seizing the space for its ever-expanding musical empire, and currently remodeling for the purposes of alleviating crowds. This new annex acquisition is earmarked for a “waiting area and small bar” on the ground level and “additional seating” in the cellar. It gives Stage 2 a through-block presence. Community Board 3 approved the alteration [PDF] to its on-premise liquor license back in November, but restricted any live music in the space. Also, egress onto Orchard Street is only permitted in emergency situations.

With each successive business milestone, the establishment is firmly solidifying its position in the echelon of classic Lower East Side performance venues. Carrying the proverbial torch for beloved (dead) spots like Tonic, Sin-e, or Luna Lounge.