ROCKFORD — The Irish Rose Saloon has been sold to a Rockford restaurateur who plans to open a casual and cozy neighborhood bar that keeps much of the same look as the decades-old establishment.
Chef and restaurateur Paul Sletten closed on the purchase of the building at 519 E. State St. on Wednesday. He plans to take on some minor remodeling but keep the character of The Irish Rose intact. The new establishment will be called Harvey Wallbangers after the popular mixed drink, and the goal is to open in approximately two months.
“I want to bring back a casual, neighborhood bar. Something that’s cozy and doesn’t feel super polished,” Sletten said. “Something that feels like it’s been here forever, and it has been here forever.”…