Downtown Update: Church Street That Bleak Street

Long past its glory years as Church Street Station, Church Street's future remains full of promise but today contains lots of empty storefronts.

This spot most recently was Danny & Pats but never gave many reasons for visiting. Prior to that it was German-themed Schumann's Jager Haus yet most people remember it as the club Dragon Room. But now, empty.

Back in Orlando's history this was indeed Herman's Loan Office but most recently it operated as Native Social Bar. Saw a lot of amazing DJ's play in there! When we looked inside this visit the closest bar was fully stocked so it's not clear what it's used for. Prior to Native it operated for years as Mako's. But now, empty.

One of Orlando's best Top 40 dance clubs was the beloved Antigua. Someone thought it was a good idea to close the place and reopen two venues to replace it, The Dubliner on the left and Don Jefe's Tequila Parlour on the right. The Dubliner is now Irish Shannon's and seems to be holding its own. But the spot on the right, empty.

After literally years of renovations, this former railroad station building opened as Ferg's Depot. It didn't last long. For now, empty.

A few bright spots though along Church Street. Hidden down an alley is Clandestino which is where Rok Bar and later Bakery Bar used to offer music.

And this long-empty spot in the 55 West building now houses restaurant Artisan's Table. The location opened as nightclub Heat for awhile and upstairs a club called Loft operated.

Another bright spot is this space behind Hamburger Mary's adjacent the Church Street SunRail station where a food hall is supposed to be going in. It will need to include a lot of bright signage to make it visible to passersby. Come check out Church Street where several other venues continue to operate to provide nightlife!