SACO — Since Ricetta’s closed in June, many people have wondered what would replace it at 512 Main St. (Route One).

Well wonder no more. Boomers, a new restaurant and sports bar, has taken over the space and is having a soft opening on Saturday night from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., serving pizza, drinks and half-price appetizers.

 In addition to pizza, Boomers will serve burgers, wings, and traditional pub fare, and will have a more solid opening next Friday, said co-owner Michael Simpson.

Simpson has a long career in restaurant and bar management. His experience includes ownership of the former Stinger’s Lounge and Restaurant in Old Orchard Beach and bar manager at Bentley’s Saloon.

He said he was ready to retire, but decided not to pass up the opportunity. Though there are other restaurants in New England with the same name, the Saco restaurant is not associated with any other Boomers restaurant, said Simpson.

The building, which was originally the Kerrymen Pub, is large, and according to city records, has more than 6,700 square feet of space over two floors.

Simpson said he wants to bring back the relaxed, welcoming, local vibe of the Kerrymen, a place where families can come for dinner or someone can meet up with a friend for a drink.

“We want to make it a casual, comfortable place where you can turn around, say hi to the person next to you and have a conversation,” he said. “I like to see people laugh and be happy.”

Boomers will feature a family room with helmets and sports gear from local high school teams on display, and a bar area with a professional sports theme.

“There are TVs all around the place and we’ve got every sports channel you can think of,” said Simpson.

In the future, Simpson may add trivia, live music and karaoke nights, as well as dart tournaments.

Liz Gotthelf is the publisher of Saco Bay News. She also loves to eat – and support local businesses. If you have any local restaurant or food news, she’d love to hear from you. Send her an email at newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.