Alumnus Karl Franz Williams to raise Anchor once again (the bar, that is)

Yale University Properties has signed a lease agreement with Yale alumnus Karl Franz Williams for the former Anchor space at 272 College St. in New Haven. The new establishment, which will maintain the name The Anchor, will also preserve the façade of the building.

Yale University Properties

Karl Franz Williams
has signed a lease agreement with Yale alumnus Karl Franz Williams for the former Anchor space at 272 College St. in New Haven. The new establishment, which will maintain the name The Anchor, will also preserve the façade of the building.

Yale University Properties worked closely with city officials and members of the community to find a new tenant for the location, which is held in sentimental regard by so many in the community, said Lauren Zucker, Yale University associate vice president for New Haven affairs and university properties.

“We wanted to be sensitive to the history of the Anchor, while inviting a new and exciting concept for the space,” said Zucker. “We are delighted to welcome the new Anchor to New Haven.

Williams currently operates a successful business in Harlem known as 67 Orange Street, which opened in December of 2008 to critical acclaim (it boasts an excellent rating by Zagat in every category). 67 Orange Street is a classic cocktail bar that takes its name from the address of one of the first successful black-owned bars in New York City circa 1847. 

The Anchor will offer simple yet classic menu items including healthy salads, small plates, and sandwiches along with a unique mixology concept. It will be open seven days per week. 

“We are thrilled to be part of the New Haven community and part of the Yale University Properties’ portfolio,” said Williams, who has designed cocktails for the Yale Club of NY, D’USSE Cognac, and many other commercial and non-commercial clients. “We look forward to paying tribute to the great history of this nostalgic location while bringing a new world vibe to the food and beverage presentation. As a Yale graduate, it is extremely exciting for me to re-invigorate this concept for New Haven. I look forward to becoming a part of the diverse cultural fabric that makes New Haven great.”

Charlie Moore, original owner of the Anchor, commented that he is “delighted that the legacy of the Anchor will continue to be a part of the award-winning New Haven restaurant scene.” 

While the Anchor façade will remain the same, the Moore family has chosen to keep the bar’s iconic sign in the family.

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Media Contact

Patrick C. O’Brien: p.obrien@yale.edu , 203-430-3897