‘The Block’ undergoes name & ownership change

The Cathedral City bar once known as ‘The Block Bar and Grill’ is getting a new owner, a new name, and a new look.

It’s now being called ‘Henry’s Sports Bar and Grill.’ Henry Arroyo, the new owner, told KESQ & CBS Local 2’s Lauren Coronado that he is hoping to bring a more family-friendly feel to the restaurant and does admit he has some concerns in taking on the project.

“Multiple people told me, ‘what’re you doing? are you crazy Henry?’ I say no, I think we need to rescue it. I think we need to save the spot,” Arroyo said.

The current management is hoping to revamp the spot on the corner of Date Palm and Ramon, which became notorious for its violence over the past few years.

Arroyo is a Cathedral City local. He remembers riding his bike down Ramon Road as a kid, which is why he chose this specific location to open up his restaurant, regardless of the violent reputation it’s gained.

Most recently in July 2017, a man was shot in the chest and hand. Four months before that, two people were shot in the parking lot. And in June 2016, a man was beaten outside the bar, he died from his injuries months later.

“We have people say, ‘is that the place where someone got shot?’ I say, ‘yes, but that doesn’t mean anything we are changing that and making everyone feel safe,'” Arroyo said.

Some of the changes made include new floors, TVs, countertops, and booths. Arroyo also got rid of a pool table, which he thinks may filter out a “certain crowd.”

Some regulars, who’ve enjoyed a drink at ‘The Block’ and are back at ‘Henry’s’ said they are already seeing a difference in clientele.

“I feel like the crowd is changing which is a great thing. Everyone’s enjoying themselves,” said Melena Santilla, a regular customer at ‘The Block’.

As far as crime, some say it’s unavoidable.

“Knuckleheads, they can be anywhere. They can be outside the grocery store, at the gas station you know, it’s just the luck of the draw I guess,” said

Arroyo is also working closely with the Cathedral City Police Department to ensure a safe environment. The grand opening is set for this Saturday.