Hush Lounge is closing—what’s next for Five Points South?

Hush Lounge at Five Points South is closing.

The popular speakeasy made national news on September 21 when a mass shooting occurred in front of the lounge killing four people and injuring 17. After a month-long search, Damien McDaniel was arrested and charged in the shooting.

Hush, which resides in the Pickwick Plaza, is owned by Ryan Pryor.

There have been several prominent closings and relocations since the beginning of 2024 within the popular Five Points South Entertainment District, including:

• Urban Parc
• Black Market Bar and Grill
• Zydeco
• What’s on Second (passage of the owner)

While there have been a number of major closings, Five Points has welcomed several openings this year and incoming establishments.

They include:

• Bandido Coffee
• Dave’s Pub
• Rocky’s Pizza
• Sauce & Suds 
• Eggholic
• Mr. Shawarma 

Despite the sudden shuttering of Hush Lounge and other establishments, community leaders within the district are confident one of Birmingham’s most popular entertainment hotspots will come back stronger than ever.

Messages from Five Points South Community leaders

Bham Now received two statements from City Councilor Crystal Smitherman and Five Points Neighborhood President Will Jones about the future of the area. 

“While I always hate to see some businesses close their doors, it’s important to remember that change is a constant. Obviously, the tragedy that unfolded at Hush would make it difficult for any business to make a full recovery. 

I’ve lived here long enough to have seen many businesses come and go in this area. When one place closes, it opens up opportunities for new ventures to emerge and become part of our community.

Anyone who has visited Five Points South in recent weeks, I think they would unequivocally say there has been a vast improvement to the area since CAP has been on the ground in the new business improvement district.  

We’re committed to supporting local businesses and fostering an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive, and I’m excited to see what comes next for this historic neighborhood.

We remain vigilant in our duty to repair —  to help make our city whole again. We call on each citizen and member of the law enforcement community to remain committed to our goals. This is a time for unity and uplifting.”

Crystal Smitherman, City Councilor

In spite of its recent transitional period, Five Points South leaders like Will Jones feel confident that the neighborhood will be thriving again in the near future.

“For anyone worried that this will create more empty units, I am confident they will fill quickly. The bellwether point to Five Points is returning to the flourishing it once enjoyed. 

The unit Black Market left was leased within weeks of their departure. Dave’s is thriving. We have great representation on the City Council. I think you’ll see considerable growth here in a short time frame.”

Will Jones, President of the Five Points South Neighborhood 

What do you think of the closure of Hush Lounge and the future of Five Points South? Tell us on Bham Now’s  Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn pages and sign up for our FREE newsletter to stay updated on the latest exciting news in The Magic City.