Bloomfield bar closing after 15-year run

BLOOMFIELD, Pa. — The owners of an eclectic bar at the intersection of Bloomfield and Lawrenceville announced Monday they will shut their doors.

Brillobox, known for its vegan and vegetarian menu, live music, crisp cocktails and eclectic interior featuring bright red leather booths, shut down along with all other bars and restaurants in March, but later opened for take out service at the end of June.

Owners Lou Ickes and Janessa Walter shut the doors again on July 24, writing on Facebook, “Hopefully we will see you later on down the road.”

Ultimately the bar couldn’t withstand the prolonged shut downs and restrictions due to COVID-19 mitigation efforts.

“15 years!!! But it’s time to say goodbye, and more importantly, ‘THANK-YOU!!!’ We are wrapping it up. We appreciate everyone that has been a part of Brillo, over the years. It’s been a great ride, but it’s time to move on. We love you all. Thank you again. Lou and Janessa,” the owners posted on Facebook.

The bar opened in the 4100 block of Penn Avenue in 2005. Ickes and Walter, longtime bartenders at the popular East End spot, purchased the bar in 2016.

Brillobox played host to many touring indie-rock and punk bands over the years and became known for their “Pandemic Dance Party,” long before an actual pandemic descended on Pittsburgh, and their comedy nights.

Popular Mt. Washington restaurant closing down due to expiring lease, COVID-19 concerns Popular Mt. Washington restaurant closing down due to expiring lease, COVID-19 concerns

Cox Media Group