On November 4, I wrote about the nasty battle between developer HRI Properties and Lisa Garza-Selcer. They have been working on Garza-Selcer’s new concept Shelby Hall in the LTV Tower. They have also been fighting over budgets.
Just as they were readying to open, HRI Properties decided they wanted to run the restaurant themselves and they sent Garza-Selcer a notice to vacate. Garza-Selcer filed a lawsuit and is seeking over $1 million in damages. All the details are here. I’ve talked to several well-known people in the commercial real estate business and one big name said: “Lisa got so screwed. It’s the biggest screw job I’ve seen my whole career.”
Garza-Selcer wasn’t available for comment on the 4th. HRI Properties emailed this statement:
HRI Properties originally signed a lease with Lisa Garza for the restaurant and bar space in Dallas’ LTV Tower and Hilton Garden Inn. Unfortunately, we have parted ways with Ms. Garza as our restaurant and bar partner. We wish her the best of luck in the future. Until there is another tenant in place, HRI Lodging will find alternative restaurant and bar offerings to ensure guests and residents have the hospitality amenities they expect from our organization.
Today Garza-Selcer released a statement.
“I have parted ways with HRI Properties, the developer behind the revitalization of downtown’s LTV Tower. The building was intended to house my forthcoming restaurant, Shelby Hall. Due to differences that could not be reconciled, the partnership dissolution is being handled by my legal team. We hope to resolve all issues in a timely and professional manner.
In the meantime, I’m actively looking for a new space for the concept. I’m passionate about bringing Mississippi Delta cuisine to Dallas and have poured my heart and soul into creating an authentic experience. I look forward to opening Shelby Hall in a new location in 2016.”
