When CBC Dragon’s Den’s Michael Wekerle purchased the El Mocambo and saved it from a final closure, he promised it would remain a live music venue. At the time he said it would undergo a makeover. There was no word on how long renovations would take. A thank you Michael Wekerle was posted over the El Mo’s front door. 

After more than a year, there are now signs of life at the El Mo and hopefully a soon re-opening. The El Mo’s iconic outside neon sign was taken down on January 27. Photos of work crews and Toronto Police showed up on Imgur. Passersby also posted photos and updates on Facebook.

On Instagram, Wekerle posted, “The El Mo palm is heading to the shop to be restored. It'll be back soon, better—and greener—than ever. The (new LED) lights will burn bright again at the top of Spadina. Thanks to the great crew at Pride Signs! #elmocambo #nakedelmo”

Restoration work on the El Mo sign has been confirmed as taking place at Pride Signs! located in Cambridge, ON. 

The El Mo neon sign, in use since 1948, was last restored in 2012. Shortly before the sale of the El Mo, when it was still slated for final closure, the sign was listed on Ebay for auction sale. Bids went as high as $10,000.

Let’s Be Frank is a specialty hot dog restaurant next door to the El Mo, which also features live bands and karaoke. They spoke with Post City and look forward to the El Mo re-opening.  “We couldn't be more excited for its relaunch. Our love for live music has been a major inspiration in opening our cozy venue and proximity to this famous space was certainly a deciding factor when choosing our location.”

Wekerle had purchased the El Mo from then owner Sam Grosso for $3.8 million. He stated in addition to keeping it a live music venue, he wanted to expand on the El Mocambo brand name.