Since the iconic Don’s Seafood in Downtown Lafayette closed in 2020, there has been a lot of curiosity about what would happen to the building. Since the 1930s, the restaurant was a staple of the district and a favorite dining destination for locals and visitors.
Wonder no more.
The Downtown Development Authority is thrilled to announce the building has been acquired by a local development team dedicated to driving the district’s vibrancy by developing the property that may accommodate retail, food and beverage, residential, and communal use. Hub City Holdings team members Ryan Pécot, Gus Rezende, BJ Crist, and John Petersen, collectively, bring together a diverse set of experiences in real estate, hospitality, food & beverage, and design to create a vibrant touchstone in the heart of the Downtown District.
Located next to Parc Sans Souci — the center of Downtown Alive! and Festival International activity — and one block away from the Vermilion Street parking garage, this project will build upon the energy created by new and long-standing businesses at the corner of Vermilion and Lee. Some of the property’s complementary neighbors include the Children’s Museum of Acadiana, The French Press, Agave Mexican Grill & Cantina, Wild Child Wines, Hideaway on Lee, Sans Souci Gallery, and Pop-A-Licious Gourmet Popcorn. The property is also within walking distance of the new Vermilion Lofts mixed-use development that includes 24 residential dwelling units.
“We are beyond elated to announce Hub City Holdings’ acquisition of the former Don’s Seafood property,” said Anita Begnaud, CEO of Downtown Development Authority. “This is a wonderful opportunity to breathe new life into an iconic spot our district has been known for nearly 100 years.”
She continued, “We look forward to continuing the momentum to activate more areas off of Jefferson Street, and we’re confident this redevelopment will drive even more people to this corner of Downtown.”
The purchase includes the old restaurant building and adjacent parking lot at the corner of Lee Avenue and Vermilion Street and the large parking lot bordered by Lee Avenue and Vermilion and Jackson streets. Hub City Holdings plans to redevelop the property in phases — beginning with the existing building and adjacent parking lot.
“Our top priority is to create something vibrant that fits into the context of our urban environment and is both a huge success for our investors and for Downtown Lafayette,” said Gus Rezende.
Check out the commercial listing here for more information on leasing space in this development. Please direct any additional questions to Gus Rezende with Hub City Holdings at gusrezende13@gmail.com.
