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City Building Department Granted Permit to Empty Bag

Longstanding eatery 'Empty Purse' set to shut down in late June due to terminated lease, allegedly due to unpaid debts. The brewery has made this decision, with rigid debts and prolonged scaffolding work potentially playing a role in the closure. The scaffolding will stay in place for an...

Following a 37-year run, Leerer Beutel restaurant will shut down in June. The brewery severed the...
Following a 37-year run, Leerer Beutel restaurant will shut down in June. The brewery severed the contract, citing 'operating expenses', potentially due to the scaffolding that's been up for almost a year, which will remain for an extended period.

City Building Department Granted Permit to Empty Bag

Farewell to "Leerer Beutel": A Cultural Icon Closes Its Doors

By July 1st, the iconic Regensburg restaurant "Leerer Beutel" will shut its doors, marking the end of 37 years that shaped the city's cultural landscape. The brewery, Paulaner, severed the lease contract, citing accumulated issues, including those stemming from ongoing repairs.

Since standing for nearly a year, construction scaffolding has taken a toll on the restaurant, contributing to its unfortunate closing. Go back in time as we dive into the legacy of "Leerer Beutel" and the factors that led to its closure.

A Cultural Melting Pot

The late medieval grain silo "Leerer Beutel" first opened to the public in 1980, following extensive renovations. For 37 years, the restaurant on the ground floor evolved into a cultural hotspot, hosting countless jazz concerts, parties, and social-political events like Ash Wednesday, organized by social initiatives.

In 1988, Winnie and Traudl Freisleben took over management, turning "Leerer Beutel" into an institution that will forever be engrained in the city's history. However, the Freislebens' era comes to an end this year.

Termination of Lease Contract

Upon request, Freisleben confirmed the termination of the lease contract by Paulaner, effective June 30th. Despite the closure, "Leerer Beutel" remains grateful to their guests, colleagues, organizers, artists, musicians, and everyone who contributed to their memorable 37 years. Reservations can be made until June 27th.

The Role of Scaffolding in the Closure

Although Freisleben doesn't wish to comment on specific reasons for the termination, it's evident that the ongoing construction site has played a significant role. In August, tiles fell off the roof, necessitating the erection of scaffolding. As a result, the gallery and restaurant had to close, delaying renovations.

The roof repairs revealed a need to replace tiles on a 2,000 square meter area. Further inspections revealed moisture damage and the need for wooden parts replacement in the roof truss. This has led to significant economic losses for the restaurant.

Attempts to Find a Solution

Freisleben has reportedly attempted to create a concept in collaboration with the city of Regensburg to secure the future of "Leerer Beutel." The city expressed its intent to help parties involved in the properties within their capabilities. Regrettably, no viable solutions seemed to be found.

The start and completion dates for the renovations have been repeatedly postponed, with the roof scheduled for renewal next year. During this time, multiple weddings and events had to be cancelled due to the uninviting appearance of the seating area beneath the scaffolding and green catch net. This undoubtedly affected the restaurant's financial condition.

As of now, it seems that the meeting between the mayor and the brewery comes too late, and the fate of "Leerer Beutel" cannot be changed anymore.

Possible Factors underlying Lease Termination

In the absence of specific details, common reasons for lease termination could include breach of contract, rent arrears, regulatory non-compliance, property damage, and financial problems, among others. More information on the specific "Leerer Beutel" restaurant, if available, could lead to a more accurate response.

In conclusion, as we bid farewell to "Leerer Beutel", it's worth appreciating its rich history and contributions to Regensburg's cultural scene. Perhaps, in the near future, another establishment will step up to fill the void left by this cultural icon.

  • Without the scaffolding disrupting operations, the gallery and restaurant might have been able to generate more revenue, contributing to a healthier financial standing.
  • In its 37-year history, "Leerer Beutel" was not just a dining spot; it was also a hub for outdoor-living enthusiasts, home-and-garden aficionados, hosting heartwarming events in a serene setting amidst Regensburg's picturesque landscape.

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