Washington Heights Building Sues Local Bar Over Unpaid Rent

WASHINGTON HEIGHTS, NY — The management company of a building in Washington Heights recently filed a lawsuit against a neighborhood bar, accusing the watering hole of not paying more than 150,000 in rent.

Specifically, the 568 West 171st Street Housing Development Fund Corporation is suing the M&M Bar & Grill, which is a tenant of the building, for $156,076.85 in unpaid rent, plus interest and judgment for legal fees, costs and expenses incurred.

The M&M Bar & Grill did not immediately respond to Patch's request for comment.

The bar has been located on the ground floor of the building since 2014, but its lease ends soon on Sept. 30, 2021.

The Housing Development Fund Corporation also states in the suit that the M&M Bar agreed to pay for "water consumed in the premises," which it hasn't done for some time, and owes an additional $1,804 through March 22, 2021, according to the suit.

There is a late fee of 5 percent worked into the initial lease for rent payments that are not received by the 10th day of the new month. Through these late fees, the Washington Heights bar owes the building company another $7,432, according to the lawsuit.

Additionally, the 568 West 171st Street Housing Development Fund Corporation estimates its legal fees will be more than $15,000, which it says the M&M Bar is "obligated to pay."

Patch could not find a website for M&M Bar & Grill, but it does have a strong 4.2 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews. The reviews mention a good selection of Latin music, a fun sports viewing environment and quality drinks.