Condado founder buys Tremont bar

Joe Kahn, the founder of Condado Tacos, has purchased Edison’s Pub and the adjoining property in Tremont.

The acquisition ends a period of frequent turnover for the establishment. In 2025, Hangry Brands bought the pub, adding it to a portfolio that includes STEAK, Jolene’s, and Lionheart Coffee. However, former owner Mark LaGrange reclaimed the bar last year after Hangry Brands missed required payments.

The adjacent storefront has also seen multiple changes in recent years. Karl Nickel, who owned Edison’s Pizza Kitchen, announced his departure in 2023. Shortly after, Pete LaGrange opened Edison’s Next Door Pizza in the space. That venture closed two months later. In 2024, Brian Moss and Brian Holleran opened Lil Ronnie’s in the location. The operators of that slice shop decided this week not to renew their lease.

Kahn has expanded Condado from a single location in Columbus in 2014 to 50 sites across multiple states. For the new owner, the purchase holds personal significance. Jennifer Masley, a spokesperson for the brand, noted that Kahn managed the bar previously and met his wife there.

“Joe managed the bar and met his wife there,” Masley said. “And now he has this incredible opportunity to purchase the bar and he couldn’t be more excited.”

Edison’s Pub will remain open during the transition period. The establishment will keep its current name. Alaina Jackson, a longtime manager, continues to work the floor. The new owners have not ruled out a temporary closure in the future to implement improvements.

Masley described the team as industry experts. The group has plans for the pizza space next door but has not yet announced specific details.