The Quencher is set to have new ownership, but patrons of the neighborhood spot can expect the same familiar faces behind the bar.
Heritage Group announced Thursday it has reached an agreement to acquire The Quencher from Scott and Adrienne Kirmil of Inked Restaurant Group. The existing staff and management will remain in place, and the Kirmils will stay on to oversee operations during the transition.
The deal marks the latest acquisition for the Newport-based hospitality company, which projected $155 million in revenue in 2026 and employs approximately 1,100 workers during peak summer months.
“The Quencher has a fantastic team and a loyal community, and our role is to support what’s already successful,” said Matthew Lyons, a spokesperson for Heritage. “We are not looking to add more restaurants to Newport. Instead, we prefer to invest in the excellent ones already there.”
Scott Kirmil said finding the right buyer was a priority.
“Heritage understands what makes The Quencher tick. It’s the people,” Kirmil said. “Knowing the staff is taken care of and that Ade and I can help with the transition made this the right move. This isn’t a goodbye. It’s the next chapter.”
Kirmil and Chef Joey Piotti opened The Quencher at 95 Long Wharf Mall in 2023 after purchasing and renovating the former Celtica Public House, which had operated at the location for more than two decades. The pair transformed the space into a bar featuring rustic Italian food, live music, karaoke and a rooftop deck with harbor views.
Inked Restaurant Group will continue to own and operate Diego’s locations in Newport, Middletown and Providence, as well as Rejects Beer Company in Middletown. However, the Middletown Diego’s Cantina and Rejects Brewery properties on Aquidneck Avenue were listed for sale together earlier this month for $4.2 million.
The Quencher will continue operating without interruption, according to the announcement.
Heritage Group’s portfolio includes more than 20 restaurants, two inns, catering services and retail operations. Its Rhode Island holdings include Brick Alley Pub & Restaurant, La Forge Casino Restaurant, Flo’s Clam Shack and Olneyville New York System.