River & Post Restaurant and Rooftop Bar, the dining venture planned in Summit Tower at 1000 Riverside Ave., is in for permitting.
The $1 million construction project shows a build-out of 9,500 square feet on the first floor and on the ninth floor for the rooftop interior bar and outside seating with a view of the St. Johns River.
Managing partner Jeff McCusker said Tuesday that with furnishings and other work, the project could run more than $1.5 million.
He expects to open mid- to late summer and hire 70-80 employees.
The menu will feature Southern American cuisine with a focus on seafood and steaks, he said. The menu will be confirmed after he hires a chef, which could be soon.
McCusker envisions entrees will be $18-$35, averaging $25-$28.
Hours are being determined, he said, although he expects River & Post will serve lunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and dinner from 4-10 p.m.
The rooftop bar would open late afternoon and might feature entertainment, such as acoustical guitar.
McCusker said response has been positive to the project.
According to building plans, the first-floor design includes the main dining area, a bar, two banquet rooms, private dining and outdoor seating.
Micamy Design Studio LLC is the architect.
Padgett Premiere Properties LLC, which owns Summit Tower, seeks rezoning for the project.
Rezoning plans show a dining area, commercial kitchen and bar of 233 seats on the first floor along with outdoor seating for 48.
The rooftop bar includes a small commercial kitchen area. There would be indoor seats for 32 and outdoor seating for 122.
McCusker, with experience as a general manager and assistant general manager at local restaurants, is a partner in 1000 Riverside Partners LLC with Bob Fleckenstein, who is an investor in the restaurant.
The 26-year-old restaurateur said he has been working in the business since he was 15.
Aldi approved at Town Center Promenade
Construction can begin on the Aldi discount grocery store in Town Center Promenade.
The city approved the permit Monday for a 17,849-square-foot Aldi store at 4444 Town Center Parkway.
Deerfield Construction Co. Inc. is the contractor for the $1.2 million project.
The Town Center Promenade store is planned across Town Center Parkway from a Publix Super Markets Inc. store.
Germany-based Aldi has three locations in Northeast Florida along Southside Boulevard in Jacksonville, in St. Augustine and in Middleburg.
It also plans a market at 7043 Normandy Blvd., near Interstate 295 and Memorial Park Road.
The Aldi chain carries a limited selection of products with a focus on private label goods.
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