Saddened by the closing of the Dessert Lady on Church Street, what other venues do you think could make great use of the space? I personally found the Euro-Bohemian style of the venue to be cozy and distinct to the area. Perhaps an upscale cocktail & craft beer venue with a combined gallery (an upscale version of XL) could do well in the space?
As for other restaurants and bars in the Downtown/Thornton Park area, does anyone know the timeframe for:
Benjamin French Bakery & Café at 716 E. Washington (former Marie France clothier). Buildout looks to be complete and opening impending. I'm personally looking forward to this one!
DTA- Don't Tell Anyone Modern Speakeasy in 101 Eola, facing Church Street. Buildout seems to be moderately progressing. Other than the name and poster out front, I don't know much about this business.
Aura Restaurant & Bar in 101 Eola at the corner of Eola and Church. Quite possibly the longest buildout in restaurant history, buildout seems to be speeding up a bit. Anyone have an anticipated opening date for this one?
Hooch (formerly The Globe) at Wall Street Plaza. This craft liquor and beer house should be opening soon if not already. Young Jewish Professionals Monthly Happy Hour (as made famous by MTV's The Wake Brothers) is planned for this venue in early September.
Loft 55. No information on this--- Buildout Progress?
Barley House- No details.
The Club at NBA City in Amway Center made its offical announcement last week. Though on the far end of the Amway Center, if anything like other NBA City locations, the atmosphere and food ought to be promising. The challenge will be getting patrons to that side of Church Street on non-game days, much less that end of the Amway Center.