After closing its doors in July 2024, The Scottish Arms at 8 S. Sarah St. in the Central West End is set to make a comeback. Hospitality veteran Marla Hare-Griffin is leading the charge, ensuring the pub’s legacy continues while introducing a fresh perspective.
Hare-Griffin, known for her management roles at The Royale and the former Cicero’s Basement Bar, acted quickly after the closure. Within days, she reached out to former owner Ally Nisbet to express her interest in reviving the establishment. That conversation set the wheels in motion for a new era of The Scottish Arms.
“I am thrilled and honored to carry on the legacy of The Scottish Arms,” Hare-Griffin said in a release. “There’s nothing quite like this pub in St. Louis. People miss it, and we couldn’t be more excited to bring it back.”
Joining Hare-Griffin in this endeavor are Lisa Andris, a 20-year managing partner of the Hi-Pointe, and Fritz Beer, a St. Louis native and former owner of the Bon Aire in Austin, Texas. Together, they plan to maintain the pub’s rich traditions while enhancing the overall experience for patrons and staff.
“It will absolutely remain a warm and welcoming public house – a gathering place for old and new friends, our Central West End neighbors, and the entire St. Louis community,” Hare-Griffin added.
Nisbet, who founded The Scottish Arms and ran it for nearly 20 years, will stay on as a consultant to ensure a seamless transition. He expressed confidence in the new leadership.
“When Marla and I sat down to talk, it was immediately clear she was the right person to take the reins,” Nisbet said. “Running The Arms is no small task, but with her experience, integrity and passion, I have no doubt it’s in the best hands. Marla and her team will honor its legacy while bringing fresh energy and vision.”
Pete Rothschild, owner of the historic building that houses The Scottish Arms, also played a key role in facilitating the transition.
“The Scottish Arms is a special and important place in the Central West End, and the building itself is remarkably charming and unique,” Rothschild said. “It was important to me that it land in the right hands. I have no doubt that Marla and her team will do a fantastic job bringing the Arms back to life.”
As the new team begins work, updates on progress and launch dates will be shared on The Scottish Arms’ website and social media channels.
This article appears in January/February 2025.