New gastropub in Kent set to open its doors

A new bar is opening in Kent and bringing live music to the area. The gastropub, Bar 145, is scheduled to open its second company-owned location the week of January 16 at 100 E. Erie Street near Kent University.

Bar 145, which first opened in Toledo in May 2011, is a result of the inspiration of 30-year-old Jeremy Fitzgerald, whose family has a successful history in the hospitality industry. Fitzgerald’s family owns two 75-unit hotels and four bars on Put-In-Bay and Port Clinton, two of Ohio’s summer fun spots on Lake Erie. Growing up in the industry, Fitzgerald was inspired by his father, Edward, who taught him the skills to not only be a successful business owner, but a successful human being, as well, always showing a genuine concern for the happiness of his customers.  

Fitzgerald began working in his father’s businesses as soon as he was old enough. He earned a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management from Bowling Green State University in 2004 and later became the general manager of his father’s two bars at Put-in-Bay, which includes Mr. Ed’s Bar and Grille. Fitzgerald also opened his own Subway on the island, serving as the sole owner and operator.  

When it opened last year, Bar 145 became the first gastropub in Toledo, Ohio. Lending to the definition of a “gastropub,” Bar 145 was relaxed and comfortable like a neighborhood bar, but instead of nachos and chicken wings, the menu featured tempura-battered green beans, sliced pretzel bread with organic gouda sauce and “Stack Your Own” burgers featuring Niman Ranch beef, considered to be some of the finest tasting, all-natural meat in the world. Bar 145 just began franchising with initial expansion plans targeted for Ohio.