The Howard County liquor board Tuesday night approved the liquor license application for Corner Stable, the restaurant that aims to occupy the old Michael’s location in Kings Contrivance.

“It was unanimous,” said Chip Reed, one of Corner Stable's owners. “They are welcoming us with open arms.”

The lease between Corner Stable and Kimco, which owns the space, has not been signed, but it’s been “agreed upon,” in essence, a “done deal,” Reed said.

Michael’s Pub closed in March after 25 years in the neighborhood, citing the economy and a huge space—and not enough people to fill it—for its closing.

Reed, who owns the Corner Stable restaurant in Cockeysville with his wife Randy, said the new Columbia restaurant would be the second location.

It would be 6,000 square feet and seat about 170 people. He also said he’s looking to hire between 70 and 90 people to staff the new location, which he has plans to renovate, installing new tables, booths, a new bar, renovated bathrooms, floor and ceilings.