A newly issued permit may finally explain why Finnegan’s Bar & Grill has been behind construction walls for so long.
While guests visiting Universal Studios Florida have watched construction continue around Finnegan’s Bar & Grill in the park’s New York area, a newly issued permit is providing a much clearer picture of what’s actually happening behind the scenes. What initially appeared to be a standard refurbishment may be far more extensive than many guests realized.
A recently issued permit from the City of Orlando reveals additional details regarding the ongoing work taking place at Finnegan’s Bar & Grill.
The permit, listed as BLD2026-10590, is titled: “SPC: B-53 FINNEGAN’S FACADE RESTORATION.” The project address is listed as: 5900 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL. According to the permit description, the project involves:
“Restoration of existing themed building facade cladding at restaurant/bar house support space, including select removal and replacement of adhered thin brick veneer cladding, exterior insulation and finish system (EIFS), and Portland cement plaster (stucco), as well as select restoration of existing metal components, existing wood components, and existing window perimeters.”
The permit application was received on January 20, 2026, and was officially issued on May 20, 2026.
The permit currently shows an application status of Open and carries an expiration date of November 16, 2026.
More Than Just a Fresh Coat of Paint
The permit suggests the project extends well beyond cosmetic repainting.
Work appears to include restoration and replacement of multiple exterior building materials, including brick veneer sections, stucco surfaces, metal elements, wood components, and portions of the building’s windows. The mention of EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) replacement also indicates crews may be addressing structural or weather-related deterioration within portions of the facade.
Taken together, the scope of work points toward a comprehensive restoration of Finnegan’s exterior rather than a simple refurbishment.
Why the Project May Be Taking Longer
The newly revealed permit helps explain why construction has remained visible around the popular Irish pub for an extended period.
Unlike routine maintenance projects, facade restoration often requires the careful removal and replacement of aging materials while preserving the themed appearance of the building. Since Finnegan’s sits within Universal Studios Florida’s highly detailed New York streetscape, maintaining the location’s historic city aesthetic is likely a major priority throughout the project.
The restoration work appears focused specifically on the building’s exterior facade and surrounding support spaces rather than any significant interior modifications to the restaurant itself.
Finnegan’s Remains a Fan-Favorite in New York
Located in the heart of the New York section of Universal Studios Florida, Finnegan’s Bar & Grill remains one of the park’s most popular table-service dining locations. The restaurant is known for its Irish-inspired menu, full-service bar, live entertainment, and prime location near many of the park’s seasonal events, including Halloween Horror Nights.
While Universal has not publicly announced a timeline for the completion of the project, the permit’s November 2026 expiration date suggests work could continue for several more months.
As construction progresses, this newly issued permit offers the clearest indication yet that Universal is investing in a substantial restoration effort designed to preserve one of the New York area’s most recognizable facades for years to come.
Be sure to keep checking back with Theme Park Scope for the latest Universal Orlando Resort construction updates, permit filings, refurbishment projects, and breaking theme park news.
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