The off-again-off-again-off-again reopening of VZD’s is over as new owners Nelson Bolen and chef Eric Smith took over the lease of the historic restaurant and bar space.

In December, a few premature announcements were made about the sale of the concept formerly owned by Chad Bleakley. A new would-be owner even went to so far as to go on Facebook to announce a relaunch party that was never to be. Bleakley said he never was able to complete a transaction to transfer ownership of the concept and the new one will have no affiliation with his.

“I’m not involved in any way,” he said via text message. “I’m sure they will have a slightly different name.”

But the new owners intend to pay homage to the history of VZD’s by maintaining a live music component while attempting to elevate the neighborhood-friendly restaurant and bar. New co-owner Smith said he and his partner intend to build on the space located on the Western Avenue entertainment corridor and plan to open in late March or early April with a blowout party, featuring live local music and samples of the reimagined menu.