A mainstay Martha’s Vineyard nightspot year round, the Ritz Cafe will shutter effective Jan. 1, with plans to reopen March 9, following approval from the Oak Bluffs selectmen Tuesday.

On Sunday nights brothers Sean and Griffin McMahon present the Dirty Gospel at the Ritz.

On most nights, live music greets you at the door of the Ritz Cafe and a friendly bartender fills drinks for a wide sampling of the Island population. New owners Larkin and Jacqueline Stallings have pledged to keep the soul of the place, while bring some new Southern spirit.

The popular Circuit avenue tavern is undergoing renovations following a change in ownership. The new owners are Larkin and Jacqueline Stallings, longtime seasonal residents.