Boston Beanery for sale in Huntington, Ashland

HUNTINGTON -- A slow economy has led to the closing of Boston Beanery restaurants in Huntington and Ashland.

"A month or so ago, we had listed them on our Web site and put them up for sale," said David Seman, president of the company. "It's certainly has been a tough economy for casual dining for sure, so we want to get some local ownership to help us out with those stores."

The closing became official after the liquor licenses were not renewed.

"We decided not to try to jump through hoops to get them back open right away," Seman said. "We do have a lot of interest in selling those. We hope to move quickly."

The Huntington restaurant is located on Veterans Memorial Boulevard and its facility is owned by the Greater Huntington Park and Recreation District, with favorable rent, Seman said. For that store, the franchise itself is up for sale, but not the building.

The Ashland restaurant is on Greenup Avenue, and that franchise and the building are for sale.

Boston Beanery restaurants are styled after the old Boston pubs of the 1800s, according to its Web site, www.bostonbeanery.com. The menu features grilled sandwiches, homemade con queso dip, hand-battered seafood, fresh Angus steaks and signature marinated chicken entrees. It has five remaining restaurants in West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Virginia.

For more information about the restaurants, visit the Web site or contact Seman at 304-594-0095.