According to an article in Wicked Local, Benjamin's restaurant in Taunton was demolished today after it was decided that all viable options for the Bay Street structure ran out. As reported here earlier, an unsuccessful attempt to auction the property took place last September, which was followed by a second auction in January of this year that focused on fixtures, furniture, kitchen equipment, and more. Around the time of the second auction, Mechanics Cooperative Bank filed an application for a demolition permit for the building in case a buyer was not found, then a proposal to replace it with new development was voted down by the city council last month and attempts over a period of at least six months to re-use the structure--possibly by having a new restaurant move in--failed as well.
Benjamin's first opened its doors in 1968 and became a dining destination for many as well as a popular spot for functions and events over the years; the place shut its doors in May of 2015 and filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
The address for the Benjamin's property was 698 Bay Street, Taunton, MA, 02780.
[Earlier Articles]
City of Taunton to Hear Proposal to Replace Benjamin's with Residential Development
Auction for Benjamin's Fixtures, Equipment Being Held; Demolition Permit Application Submitted
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[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]
