On Tuesday, the Jacksonville City Council gave its final approval to Fat Tuesday, a former Jacksonville Landing tenant, to open a bar and a separate nightclub in the historic Five Points neighborhood. The council passed Ordinance 2026-0560 with a 17-0 vote, though council members Raul Arias and Randy White were absent from the dais.
Zoning exception and planning commission waiver
The ordinance creates a specific zoning exception that authorizes the New Orleans‑based Fat Tuesday chain to sell alcohol on‑premise, serve customers outdoors, and operate a dedicated nightclub space within Five Points. This exception was contingent on a waiver from the Jacksonville Planning Commission, which was granted on September 3. The waiver allows Fat Tuesday to sell alcohol within 1,500 feet of a church, a distance that would normally be prohibited under existing city zoning rules.
Local impact and community response
Five Points has long been a hub for dining, nightlife, and cultural activity in downtown Jacksonville. Supporters of the project argue that the new venue will add jobs, increase foot traffic, and enhance the district’s reputation as an entertainment destination. The city’s planning staff noted that the development aligns with Jacksonville’s broader strategy to revitalize downtown and attract both residents and visitors.
Critics, including some members of the nearby congregation, expressed concern about noise, traffic, and the proximity of alcohol sales to a place of worship. The council’s unanimous vote indicates that officials believe the planning commission’s waiver adequately addresses these concerns while balancing the economic benefits of the new establishment.
Next steps for Fat Tuesday
With the ordinance and waiver now in place, Fat Tuesday can move forward with construction and licensing. The company plans to begin renovations soon, aiming to open the bar and nightclub later this year. City officials will continue to monitor compliance with the zoning exception and any conditions attached to the waiver.
For more details, readers can consult the full story on the Jacksonville Daily Record, a partner of Jacksonville Today.
Original reporting: Jacksonville Today — read the source article.
