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Alamo Heights staple, 5050 Broadway is now under new leadership.
Iconic Alamo Heights bar 5050 Broadway is getting a facelift and menu update thanks to a partnership between current owner PJ Gottsacker and local cocktail guru Jeret Peña.
The longtime friends and business partners revealed the new couple on Tuesday. Peña, who is responsible for launching high-profile cocktail spots like Brooklynite and Three Star Bar, told the Current that he will introduce an updated bar menu, improved food offerings, aesthetic tweaks and new programming for 5050.
“I don’t know if we can really recreate the original feel, but I think we can steer toward a more classic look for the space, making it comfortable and more accessible,” Peña said. “We’re just breathing new life into the space — not just giving it a slight physical facelift but adding content that I think is meaningful.”
The new line-up will include Yacht Rock Tuesdays, featuring a playlist of smooth ’70s hits and what Peña calls “trash Tiki cocktails,” a new twist on the classic Painkiller. Typically made with rum, pineapple and orange juices and coconut cream, the 5050 will feature Sunny Delight replacing the fruit juices.
More mainstream drink additions will include beer and shot combos and expanded back bar offerings. The kitchen will offer a more refined approach to American cuisine, not to be confused with “expensive,” Peña said. However, he did not provide details on the new deals.
Also in the works: more music options, including live bands and DJ sets from well-known local spinners.
5050 Broadway has been serving booze since 1947, and the building’s facade reflects many of the aesthetic touches of the era. Similar mid-century details will be brought out inside through new paint and neon, Peña added.
“The exterior is really striking, with the black and white checkered facade and the cool neon lights. So we’re talking about bringing some of that exterior element inside and giving it a more classic feel,” he said .
“I think we can still keep a lot of the tchotchkes, but we’re just going to make it really clean and classic with some interesting elements. We’re looking at accessories and wallpaper, nothing crazy. But that’s the best part, the creation. I think PJ has a gem, just needs a bit of polish.”
The first changes will become apparent to regulars this weekend, including updates to the food and beverage menus and expanded liquor selections. The addition of new dining room furniture and improvements to the bar’s outdoor space will happen over the long term, according to Peña.
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