Pendleton Bar Acquired, Will Reopen Under New Ownership

Big Chill owners plan to rejuvenate Bar Saeso in April

Apr. 8, 2026 at 3:55am

A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a polished brass beer tap handle, a glass beer stein, and a stack of coasters in muted earth tones, conceptually representing the premium quality and craftsmanship of the newly acquired bar.The acquisition of Bar Saeso by the owners of Big Chill signals a shift in Cincinnati's bar and restaurant landscape as local businesses consolidate and expand.Cincinnati Today

Bar Saeso, a bar located in Cincinnati's Pendleton neighborhood, has been acquired by Hannah Wheatley and Evan Wallis, the owners of Big Chill in College Hill. The bar announced a temporary closure on March 28 and plans to reopen later in April under the new ownership.

Why it matters

The acquisition of Bar Saeso by the owners of Big Chill represents a shift in Cincinnati's bar and restaurant landscape, as established local businesses expand and take over other venues. This move could signal a broader trend of consolidation in the city's hospitality industry.

The details

Bar Saeso, located at 1208 Sycamore St. in Pendleton, announced its temporary closure on March 28 through social media posts. The bar's new owners, Hannah Wheatley and Evan Wallis, who also own Big Chill in College Hill, plan to rejuvenate the space and reopen Bar Saeso later in April.

  • Bar Saeso announced its temporary closure on March 28, 2026.
  • The new owners plan to reopen Bar Saeso later in April 2026.

The players

Bar Saeso

A bar located in Cincinnati's Pendleton neighborhood that has been acquired by new owners.

Hannah Wheatley

One of the new owners of Bar Saeso, who also owns Big Chill in College Hill.

Evan Wallis

One of the new owners of Bar Saeso, who also owns Big Chill in College Hill.

Big Chill

A bar in Cincinnati's College Hill neighborhood that is owned by the new owners of Bar Saeso.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to rejuvenate the space and bring our vision to Bar Saeso.”

— Hannah Wheatley, Co-owner, Bar Saeso

What’s next

The new owners plan to reopen Bar Saeso later in April 2026 after completing renovations and updates to the space.

The takeaway

The acquisition of Bar Saeso by the owners of Big Chill represents a trend of consolidation in Cincinnati's bar and restaurant industry, as established local businesses expand and take over other venues. This move could signal a shift in the city's hospitality landscape.