Speakeasy News
Steakhouse with speakeasy to slink into historic downtown Prosper
1902 in Prosper
There's a new American steakhouse coming to DFW with a speakeasy on the side. Called 1902, it’ll open in downtown Prosper, in the former Prosper Wine House at 209 W. Broadway St., in summer 2025.
1902 is a new concept from Alora Hospitality Group, a partnership between Donny Churchman (Nack Development) and hospitality entrepreneur Jason Young with a mission to create new concepts in historic downtown areas.
Leading the culinary side is chef Amy DiBiase, a New England native and graduate of Johnson & Wales University whose vast background includes San Diego’s Intercontinental Hotel, the award-winning Tidal at Paradise Resort and Spa, Grand Restaurant Group, and most recently Sanderling Resort in Duck, North Carolina.
"Chef DiBiase has experience running multiple restaurant groups, and has worked internationally as a chef," Young says. "Our goal is to make her famous here in North Texas."
Alora's other concepts include The Parlour (with Board & Bread) and Old Town Pie Co.; Frisco Premier Catering - Cocktails & Culinary; and Three Empires Brewing with David & Mandy Wible. (They were also previously partnered on Earnest B's BBQ but are no longer involved.)
With 1902, they're making a big investment, including a $1 million renovation of the space, which is part of a cluster of small charming buildings on West Broadway in Prosper, a mix of vintage and new. The property where 1902 will go was built in 2023 by the owners of Prosper Wine House in a partnership with the Prosper Economic Development Corporation. Alora bought the building in January.
The vision for 1902 is a restaurant that's elevated, yet approachable, open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Although it's too early to get into menu specifics, Young says there will be steaks, pastas, burgers, and salads, plus a full bar with cocktails, beer, and a wine list, keeping up the tradition established by the prior tenant.
Adding a speakeasy concept was a creative way to use the restaurant's second level which comes with its own built-in rooftop bar. It'll be called Mary Ann's, and will offer cocktails in a Prohibition-era style lounge, boasting what Young describes as a "more adult vibe," with live music and entertainment.
As any speakeasy aficionado knows, having a cool entrance is key. To give Mary Ann's the momentum it deserves, it'll be accessed via an elevator — one of many major additions they're making to the space.
"We have to add an elevator, a full commercial kitchen, and a grease trap, and we're updating the interior design as well," Young says.
"We're excited to help drive a lot of energy and activity in the heart of every city, and they deserve a great experience in their downtown," he says. "And we want to bring attention to all the other great stores and merchants that are there, as well."
Joseph Palladino inside Palladino's Steak & SeafoodPhoto courtesy of Palladino's
The snazzy bar area.Photo courtesy of Palladino's