Multiple Businesses Close, But Is It A Bad Thing?

It seemed like a not-so-good domino effect when local favorites like Katz, Danny K's and Greek Pizza Kitchen all closed their doors within weeks of one another. 

Nana's Restaurant, another popular business, shut its doors around the same time.

Some Tarponites were worried about the closings, but the city's Economic Development Director Karen Lemmons said folks should feel exactly the opposite. 

"There's a turnover and for whatever reason those closings happened around the same time," Lemmons said. "But at the same time, we're attracting more, new ones."

Hibiscus Street has four new additions, including Timeless Treasure, a consignment boutique and Gypsy Candles, a local candle crafter.

Lemmons said the spaces on Hibiscus have been vacant for 10 years, so the addition are a big deal.

Grand openings and ribbon cuttings for the Hibiscus Street stores will take place in the fall.

Carol Rodriguez, owner of Timeless Treasures said that because of its past, Hibiscus needs to be put on the local map for shoppers.

"It's been a drive by for so long, people need to know we're here," Rodriguez said.
Months ago, Danny K's flopped, but it was only a few weeks before the newly finished spaced reopened as Bayou Cafe.

Owner of the new spot, Dee Izugar said she doesn't think the area closings will affect Bayou Cafe.

"I'm not too worried," Izugar told Patch. "People are being very receptive and are enjoying what we have to offer." 

Nana's turned over quickly as Johnny Grits owners are hoping to open by September 1.

Mad Hatter General Store plans to expand to a bigger space on Tarpon Avenue while a new financial investment firm is set to open next to Currents Restaurant in the near future.  And an artist is on board to take over the former Mad Hatter General Store location.

"We're seeing an uptick in things happening downtown," Lemmons said.