In the nineteenth century, the building was described in city directories variously as a grocery, a porterhouse, or a liquor establishment.

[1] Until its closure, it was the city's oldest continuous business establishment, though the name and ownership had changed numerous times.

It had most recently been under the same ownership since 1979, when the former McCormick’s, a bar frequented by local fishmongers, was purchased by Jack Weprin and converted into The Bridge Cafe, a white tablecloth establishment.

[2][3] While in office, Mayor Edward I. Koch regularly had dinner at Bridge Cafe and declared it to be his favorite restaurant.

[5] A reconstruction did commence but a report in March 2020 stated that owner Adam Weprin had encountered difficulties; at that time, he said that "'Unfortunately, many factors will play a part in the opening.