ATLANTIC BEACH, Fla. — A groundbreaking was held Wednesday to renovate and transform the historic former Ragtime Tavern building into a new upscale dining destination.
Crews are working to convert the site into a first-floor upscale steakhouse and a casual rooftop lounge.
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The new establishment will be called Grafton and Flecks, developed by River Restaurant Group. The redevelopment marks a major transition for the property, which previously operated as Ragtime Tavern for more than 40 years.
The former tavern space is currently a hollow skeleton as construction workers begin transforming the property. The concept features two distinct experiences across its levels.
Jeffrey Grafton McCusker, co-founder of River Restaurant Group, detailed the plan for the layout.
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“We’re going to try to keep it downstairs a little more elevated and high-end, but the upstairs will be walk up no reservation. You can come hang out at the lounge or be outside and enjoy the weather,” McCusker said.
Ragtime Tavern operated as a beach staple known for live music and a casual atmosphere, prompting mixed reactions among neighbors.
Shannon Reyes, a local resident, recalled the history of the location.
“I was a little sad, honestly. Ragtime has been a staple in the community for so long,” Reyes said.
Reyes noted how the dynamic of the strip might shift with the new venue.
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“You know, like kind of anybody could be in there at a time, the live music. It was like a really fun space. So seeing it be replaced with something like super upscale, I feel like it’s going to add a different vibe, at least to the whole strip,” Reyes said.
Other neighbors expressed enthusiasm for the updated venue and concept. Sharon Howell, a local resident, supported the change.
“It’s definitely an upgrade, at least in this group, we tried Ragtime one time and we were not impressed,” Howell said.
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Nina Smith, another local resident, welcomed the rooftop addition to the area.
“I love the roof-top idea. I think it was definitely needed in Atlantic Beach,” Smith said.
Grafton and Flecks is expected to open in early 2027.
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