Business Review: Downtown Sees More Shops Open

2011 brought a lot of movement among businesses in Millburn and Short Hills.

Despite a tough economy that brought an end to some businesses, many optimistic entrepreuers opened new business, and other shops and restaurants  are in the works.

After a spell with a lot empty storefronts downtown, Millburn is now at about 85 percent occupancy, said outgoing president of Downtown Millburn John Buchholz.

New stores have opened and other stores and restaurants are moving. And is still working to re-open after being wiped out by the from Irene on Aug. 28.

"We're excited about what's going on downtown," said Downton Millburn's new executive director Lisa Hackett, whose offices are moving from the location on Millburn Avenue by the theater to Main Street.

That said, the stretch of Millburn Avenue in Short Hills has not fared nearly so well.

There’s a burned out building, and several empty store fonts, including the most recent closure of the bridal store, . Meanwhile, a battle's still brewing over the proposed that would go in the old Saks building that has been vacant 16 years. Residents fear the increased noise, traffic and safety issues that the store could bring, while some in town think the vacant building is not helping the situation there.

Here’s a quick look at some of the happenings this year in Millburn Short Hills:

Downtown

After more than 20 years in business, Sono Japanese restaurant closed early this year and coming in its place is (pronounced Locali) a wood-fired pizza restaurant, once re-construction to repair damage from flooding is complete.

The Salad House quietly opened last week for business and despite only advertising through word of mouth and its website, quickly had lines forming and brisk business.

and both opened the week of Thanksgiving and are also already hopping.

, is moving a few doors down from its current location, staying on Millburn Avenue and Red Carpet Boutique is moving across Millburn Avenue to a larger location in the former spot.

opened last month to the delight of those searching for a rigorous workout downtown.

La Cucina di Clemenza moved from its former location on Essex Street to its new storefront on Millburn Avenue, across from .

and both opened earlier this year downtown as well.

announced the opening of a new office in Millburn earlier this month. The practice, housed temporary at 25 E. Willow Street, will eventually be at The Common, 225 Millburn Ave.

And long-time Millburn mainstay, , opened a new showroom on Millburn Avenue in November.

Short Hills

on Millburn Avenue in Short Hills is open by appointment only for brides who have already purchased their gowns, but will close its doors for good Dec. 31, along with the other stores in the 65-year-old chain.

Construction has begun on the station restaurant owned by Marc Cooperman, who used to own MC restaurant, where Moonshine now sits. Cooperman plans a that will offer take-out that will allow commuters to order ahead and pick up on the way home.

Chix-n-pies of Short Hills, located right in front of the Short Hills train station on Chatham Road, opened in September and offers chicken and pizza, as well as wraps, wings as well as take-out and delivery.

In the same shopping strip is Aldea’s Design Studio and a new pet grooming shop, .

The Mall at Short Hills

The opening of the was greatly anticipated at and was just one of many new tenants at the mall. Designers Carlo Pazolini and Ermenegildo Zegna along with Miu Miu, Omega, Pandora, Reed Krakoff, Swarovski, Victorinox Swiss Army, Vineyard Vines and opened at the mall in 2011.

Miu Miu, Reed Krakoff, Victorinox Swiss Army and Vineyard Vines debuted exclusively in New Jersey.  

If you opened a business in Millburn-Short Hills in 2011 and we missed it here, let us know and we'll update the story.