Development

Planning Board Approves Master Plan for Watertown Mall Transformation

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The master plan for Alexandria Real Estate’s Watertown Mall Transformation was approved by the Planning Board. (Courtesy of Alexandria Real Estate)

The basic plan for remaking a large portion of Arsenal Street, including the Watertown Mall, has been approved by the Planning Board. Before the multiple lab buildings, residential units, retail, and garages can be built, however, developers will have to come back for approval of each building. Almost all of the project falls within Watertown’s Regional Mixed Use District (RMUD), which allows for additional height and density that most of the town but requires a master plan to be approved. On Nov.

Around Town

First Time Homebuyers Workshop at Watertown Library

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The following announcement was provided by real estate agent Sandra Andronic:

Home Sweet Home: A First Time Homebuyers Workshop

Join us at the Watertown Free Public Library for an exciting event designed to help first-time homebuyers navigate the process of purchasing their dream home. Whether you’re a complete novice or have some knowledge, this workshop is perfect for anyone looking to make their homeownership dreams a reality. Our expert speakers will cover topics such as budgeting, mortgage options, finding the right neighborhood, and more. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and tips from industry professionals. Mark your calendars for this informative and engaging event!

Business

New Dental Practice Welcomed to Town With Ribbon Cutting by Watertown Business Coalition

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Arsenal Modern Dentistry held a ribbon cutting at its office in Arsenal Yards on Sept. 21. The staff of the dentistry office was joined by the Watertown Business Coalition leadership. (Photo by Charlie Breitrose)

Watertown’s newest dental practice marked its official opening last week with a ribbon cutting outside its office in Arsenal Yards. Arsenal Modern Dentistry moved into a spot right on Arsenal Street, which has already proven to be a good location, said Dr. Brock Riedel, who runs the practice with his partner, Dr. Anthony Falone.

Business

New Watertown Fitness Studio Hosting Open House with Free Classes & Refreshments

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The following announcement was provided by Fly Together

Come celebrate the grand opening of our second location and flagship studio in Watertown

Explore over 4,000 sq. ft. of movement arts space. Enjoy FREE taster classes and light refreshments. Check out our classes: pole dance, heels dance, sensual movement, conditioning, flexibility, twerk, acro, handstands, chair and more!

Business

Watertown Native Names New Whiskey After His Hometown & Got a Little Help from His Friends

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Drink creator Mikey Bortone named his coconut whiskey after his hometown. (Courtesy of Watertown Whiskey)

Watertown native Mikey Bortone’s eureka moment came when he was enjoying a whiskey, while trying to hydrate at the same time. After perfecting his recipe, and with some help from a couple hometown buddies, Watertown Whiskey has become a reality. The liquor named for his hometown brings together rye whiskey and coconut. It debuted in California, where Bortone now lives, and he plans to bring it to his home state.

Business

Local Favorites Old & New Featured in Charles River Chamber’s “Get to Know Watertown Video”

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Courtesy of Charles River Regional Chamber

The following information was provided by the Charles River Chamber of Commerce:

On Friday, the Charles River Regional Chamber is releasing the first of four videos to promote Watertown, Wellesley, Newton and Needham to visitors. “Get to Know Watertown” features a mix of iconic establishments, cultural attractions and new destinations throughout the city, including Donohue’s Bar & Grill, Sevan Bakery, the Mosesian Center for the Arts and Bar ‘Cino.  

The “Get to Know” videos are the second phase of the chamber’s “Take A Trip Up the Charles” campaign launched in 2022 designed to encourage visitors to Greater Boston and people who live in neighboring communities to explore the many offerings in these vibrant communities located just a few miles upstream along the Charles. “Our goal is to support our local economy by highlighting scenic, historic, cultural, recreational, lodging, dining and retail destinations that make our communities unique to those visiting the region, or from the next community over,” said Chamber President Greg Reibman. 

“We had a lot of fun working with so many business owners across Watertown to make this video,” Reibman added.  “We also wanted to thank the folks at City Hall who helped provide many of the events and public art photos that are such an important part in telling why everyone should get to know Watertown.”

Reibman said he hopes everyone who enjoys the video will share it with customers, e-newsletters and on their social media feeds.  

The $16,500 campaign is funded by Meet Boston! and the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism.

Business

Restaurant Opening in Former New Yorker Diner Spot

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The former New Yorker Diner spot will be home to Halva. (Courtesy of Teddy Kokoros)

A restaurant that will serve a variety of dishes, including Turkish food, appears to be headed to the former New Yorker Diner location near Watertown Square. A Watertown News reader sent a photo of the building at 39 Mt Auburn St. has banners hanging on it saying “Halva, Coming Soon!” The banners also mentions barbecue, burgers, and kunefe — a Turkish pastry made with cheese.

Business

New Italian Restaurant Opens in Center of Watertown

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Bar ‘Cino has opened in Watertown Square. (Photo courtesy of Bar ‘Cino)

The following piece was provided by the Newport Restaurant Group:

Newport Restaurant Group, the Rhode-Island based and 100 percent employee-owned hospitality group that operates a collection of restaurants and properties across New England, today opens Bar ‘Cino in Watertown. Derived from vicino, the Italian word for “neighbor”, the new Bar ‘Cino is nestled in the heart of Watertown Square and is the third location of the Italian-inspired dining concept which first opened in Newport, Rhode Island in 2019 followed by Brookline 2020. “We are thrilled that our latest Bar ‘Cino opening will be in the vibrant and historic city of Watertown,” said Paul O’Reilly, CEO of Newport Restaurant Group. “Over the past several years, we’ve enjoyed bringing our passion for delicious Italian food and drink to our guests in Newport and Brookline and are excited to foster that same spirit right on Watertown’s Main Street.