Hobart institution, The County Lounge, closes
By Karen Caffarini Post-Tribune correspondent January 7, 2013 4:00PM
Maps
Updated: February 9, 2013 6:19AM
HOBART — The New Country Lounge, a Hobart fine dining establishment for more than 70 years, closed its doors on Jan. 1, about 11/2 years after getting new ownership.
Chris Gerodemos, son of the building’s owner, Lou Gerodemos, said Monday the person who was leasing the building at 3700 Montgomery St. left as of Jan. 1.
He said a few people have since contacted the family about leasing the building, but no decision has been made as yet regarding its future.
“We were waiting for the holidays to be over before we made any decision,” Gerodemos said.
Hank Laninga, who also formerly owned The Town Pub in Lowell, took over the former Country Lounge in August 2011. He could not be reached for comment. A person who answered the phone at The Town Pub said he no longer is the owner there.
A rumor of the possible closing of the Country Lounge restaurant, known for its seafood, steaks and pasta dishes, was posted on its Facebook page in late November. However, the restaurant responded that it was open “and beautifully decorated for the holidays.”
Mike Adams, executive director of the Hobart Chamber of Commerce, said the restaurant seemed to have some issues, pointing out that it went from being non-smoking to a totally smoking establishment.
“It got to the point where you couldn’t walk in the door if you were under 21,” Adams said. “I don’t know how that worked for them.”
Butch Hundley, of Merrillville, who managed the restaurant under Laninga for awhile, had his own thoughts.
“The food was good, but I don’t know if the location was,” Hundley said.
