Building’s new owner is excited about move

Bob Hall, who owns el bees restaurant at 304 Third St. in Waterloo, is excited about buying Harr’s restaurant.

Hall and his wife, Shelia, will take possession of the building at 3200 N. 2040 St. on April 30. Hall plans to spend six or eight weeks remodeling — giving it a more southwestern look — and moving his business into it.

Hall is thrilled about the move.

“I’ve always loved the building,” he said. “It’s got the greatest lounge in the whole state. I used to go there on Monday nights after it would slow down at el bees and do my scheduling in their lounge. It’s always nicer to have a cocktail in somebody else’s bar than your own.”

The business will have 96 parking stalls compared to its current on-street parking, and better party rooms, he said.

Hall said he’s talked to Dotty Haar, owner of Harr’s, about buying the building for a few years.

“I told her if it ever became available to give me a call. I appreciate her giving me first shot at it,” he said.

The Halls have owned el bees, known for its Mexican cuisine, since 1981.