A lot of downtown diners were bereft when Cunningham’s closed its downtown location last year (it still operates a restaurant on River Rd.). The venerable restaurant left a gap in diners’ hearts – and on the middle of Fourth St. But recent activity at the site just north of Theater Square, and talk on public media, have given hope that a revival might be coming.

A story in Louisville Business First reported that a message on the restaurant’s Facebook page implied that a reopening seems to be in the works. Joey George whose family has a long history with Cunningham’s has formed a partnership with Louisville businessman Kirk Stallings. Renovations are under way at the restaurant at 630 S. Fourth St.

A new menu also is being considered, though the Facebook post assures long-time fans that the fish sandwich will return. It is possible the restaurant could reopen by the end of February.