Fall River’s Nite Owl expected to have new life with potential renovation, sale

An iconic Fall River landmark could soon see new life.

Antone Dias, representing owner Joseph Nasrallah, went in front of the Historical Commission Tuesday stating that Nasrallah is looking to sell or renovate the former Nite Owl Restaurant and get it on the Fall River Register as a significant and historic place before hopefully getting on the National Register.

Dias stated that the main goal is to sell the entire property on the corner of Pleasant Street and Eastern Avenue including the parking lot.

If Nasrallah can’t sell the property, his next option would be to lease the Nite Owl and renovate the building to suit the person leasing the property, particularly the kitchen area.

Dias feels that the building is unique and historic which includes a basement with a bathroom.

The Commission was surprised that the Nite Owl was not already listed on Fall River’s Register of Significant Structures and unanimously approved the motion.

Dias stated that the diner, which has been around since the 50s, can seat about 20 people and the only major updates to the exterior would be to repair the steps and to add a handicap ramp. Other than that, the outside would basically remain the same.

Nasrallah is interested in having the building preserved and not destroyed or become unrecognizable, so it is looking likely that residents will see the iconic owl for years to come.