Denim and Pearls Owners Introduce New Pizza Concept Replacing Black Bear
This Friday, Old Town Warrenton welcomes a new addition to its dining scene with the opening of Licorice Pizza. The restaurant is the latest venture by experienced restaurateurs Jenn and TC Robinson, who are also the owners of Denim and Pearls.
Located just across the street from their existing restaurant, Licorice Pizza—often referred to as LP—will take over the space formerly occupied by Black Bear Bistro & Brick Oven, a popular Main Street establishment that abruptly closed in June. The Robinsons recently purchased the building housing Denim and Pearls and are eyeing the opportunity to eventually own the new restaurant’s location as well.
The name Licorice Pizza, a nod to vinyl records, reflects the restaurant’s theme, which pays homage to the rock ’n’ roll era of the ’70s and ’80s. The walls are adorned with vinyl records from iconic bands like AC/DC, Aerosmith, and The Who, while a TouchTunes jukebox adds to the nostalgic atmosphere.
“I’m just a big music person. I love live music,” Jenn Robinson said. “I grew up in the ’80s, and we were inspired by a restaurant with a similar vibe that we visited in another state. We thought it would be really fun to bring that concept here.”
While the décor is a tribute to the music of the past, the menu stays true to the classic offerings that fans of Black Bear Bistro enjoyed, including pizzas baked in the same brick oven.
“We want to keep what people loved about Black Bear, so we’re keeping the pizza,” Jenn Robinson said.
The menu also features Whiffle burgers and dogs, sourced locally from Whiffletree Farms, as well as baked potatoes, chicken wings, and handmade craft cocktails. For dessert, guests can indulge in treats like fried Oreo Speedwagon, Bread Zeppelin garlic knots, and Toast Malone.
In addition to its culinary offerings, Licorice Pizza aims to be a destination for entertainment. Sports fans can catch games on multiple TVs, try their hand at the Golden Tee golf arcade game, or enjoy live music on Saturday nights on the back patio.
“We want people to enjoy the rock ’n’ roll vibe and atmosphere as much as they love Denim and Pearls,” Jenn Robinson said. “We’re excited to bring something new to Old Town.”
Licorice Pizza will be open from 11 a.m. to midnight daily, except on Sundays when it will close at 10 p.m. Plans are also in place to offer delivery service starting in 2025. Additionally, the Robinsons intend to enclose the patio and install heaters, allowing for year-round use.
“We’re just super excited to open and add another business to Old Town,” Jenn Robinson said. “We’re planting our roots here because we love the community and are thrilled to have a couple of businesses in this area now.”
The grand opening of Licorice Pizza will take place on Friday, Aug. 30, from 11 a.m. to midnight at 32 Main St. in Warrenton. The celebration will feature live music from 6 to 9 p.m., including performances by Daniel Carter and the Elizabeth Lawrence Band, as well as a photo booth, games, and giveaways.