Hangry Brands buys Society Lounge on East 4th Street. Credit: Scene Archives
Harley Magden, along with Andrew Pucella and beverage director Joseph Fredrickson, opened Society Lounge in 2013, bringing craft cocktails – and a speakeasy-style vibe in which to enjoy them – to East 4th Street.

After 12 years, the cocktail lounge has new ownership – effective immediately. Jason Beudert announced today that his hospitality group, Hangry Brands, has acquired the business.

“It kind of landed in our lap,” he says. “It fits our portfolio nicely.”

That portfolio includes a growing number of bars, restaurants and entertainment facilities. Under the umbrella are high-profile spots such as STEAK in Tremont, Geraci’s Slice Shop and Lionheart Coffee downtown, and The Yard on 3rd in Willoughby. In the coming weeks, Jolene’s will open in the former Greenhouse Tavern space, The Dugout will sprout within the East 4th Street DORA zone, and SUSHI will roll out at STEAK in Tremont.

“We’re honored to add Society Lounge to the Hangry Family,” says Julia Licastro, Area Operating Partner. “It’s such an icon that we’re pumped to add some of our magic too.”

Licastro says that no major concept changes are planned, but that Hangry will focus on areas such as “efficiency and vibe.”

“Our focus will be to put a new shiny coat of wax on this incredible brand,” she adds. “Cocktail efficiency, synergy with local high-end Gateway Districts restaurants and hotels, and most importantly, kicking up the fun and approachable meter.”

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For 25 years, Douglas Trattner has worked as a full-time freelance writer, editor and author. His work as co-author on Michael Symon's cookbooks have earned him four New York Times Best-Selling Author honors, while his longstanding role as Scene dining editor has garnered awards of its own.