We were saddened to learn about the impending closing of Murray Hill neighborhood bar Third & Long. After 22 years, the sports bar will close its doors on Wednesday, June 26, 2013.
As with many closings, Manhattan real estate is the culprit, as they could not come to agreement with the landlord on a new lease. That is the nature of the business.
On his facebook page, founding partner Matt Long wrote:
“7,492 DAYS an incredible run! First there was 2 brothers, next came an all-star group of friends/family, at some point in time the 7 remaining Long’s pitched in to keep things jumping. Last at the helm was #9 ( Eddie) and Curtis. Thank you and job well done. – Matt Long”
Bartender Lee Ann Frahm wrote:
“hard to imagine and sad to believe but its finally happening… the end of an era for my favorite corner bar, Third and Long…I’m really grateful that I got to be a part of it for almost half of its amazing 22 year existence… the place became my home away from home, owners and managers who became my family, and staff and patrons who supported me for so many years and became some of my dearest friends. that corner will never be the same!”
A lot has changed since firefighter brothers Jim & Matt Long opened up a corner bar in 1991. It is a testament to the Long family and how they ran their business that the bar was able to thrive for 22 years, a very long time for an establishment in NYC, where nightlife trends and neighborhoods are constantly in flux.
The bar has recently earned a reputation as one of the top hockey bars in NYC, so it was fitting that the Stanley Cup Championship concluded during their final days. They were thisclose to having a Game 7 coincide with their final night. Instead, I’m sure they will be showing Mets & Yankess baseball.
Manager Curtis Lanton posted on his blog, The Diary of Third & Long: “The saddest part of all of this is saying good-bye to all of our patrons, both past and present; relationships we’ve developed and fostered over the years and the wonderful employees we’ve worked with during this time.”
So in the spirit of “Do it while you still can”, stop into Third & Long one last time between now and the 26th, because they don’t make bars like this anymore.
Third & Long
523 Third Ave. (35th St.)
New York, NY
(212) 447-5711
ThirdandLongNYC.com
