Business Update, Day Two

Today's information comes from a multitude of sources. My favorite business blog is Josh Flory's Property Scope and much of what I'll mention in this post came from that site. There has been a great deal of movement so far this year in downtown businesses. Yesterday I mentioned that Reruns is moving to the Daylight Building where it will soon open (May 24) as will Union Avenue Books (April 28) and Just Ripe.

New outdoor seating at Blue Coast Burrito, Market Square, Knoxville

One business update I can give you is that Blue Coast Burrito has just added a great deck to their north side. It had to be built up slightly from the sidewalk to make it level and when the weather is good, if this weekend is any indication, it will be packed.

Interior View of 36 Market Square demolition/renovation/reconstruction, April 2011

Interior view of 36 Market Square, April 2011

Across the square at 36 Market Square, I've come to a greater appreciation of the task at hand. To someone with my limited (read: total ignorance) knowledge of such matters, it seemed that 37 Market Square would have been the more difficult project of the two in that all they had to work with was a facade. I've changed my mind.

Interior view of 36 Market Square, April 2011

Rare open view from the front of 36 Market Square, April 2011

As the pictures reveal, a stunning amount of work has to be done inside the 36 Market Square structure while not bringing the building down and not having much room to operate. I'm still waiting on the developer to contact me for a tour (he's reading this :-)), but so far he doesn't seem so inclined. I'm excited about what might happen on that corner. I just hope I live long enough to see it come to fruition.

Here are other tidbits which have recently happened or are in the process of happening:

• General Store in the Fidelity Building is temporarily closed, causing a gap in retail offerings downtown for both residents and workers. The building is owned by the by the H.T. Hackney Company, a food wholesaler. As first reported here last fall, the group has been considering the possibility of expanding General Store into a small store with a light grocery selection. They have the contacts, we have the need, now we just need a better name than "General Store." Really.
• Regions Bank is moving across Union Avenue to the old Miller's Building. This raises several questions in my little mind: Why did the bank cross the street? (Leave your answers in the comment section.) What happens to the ugly time/temperature atrocity, which they promised to fix, on the roof? Who will occupy that large (ugly) building?
• I can't see much progress on the Lunch Box move to Market Street, but it isn't very visible from the street, so who knows? Do the Sprouses read the blog and would you like to comment?
• It appears less likely there will be a beauty school in the Arnstein Building as the group promoting the idea has purchased property elsewhere. It's completely clear if the other property is in place of or in addition to their plans for the Arnstein Building which seems like one of the best spots downtown and a property waiting to take off in the right hands.
• Not to worry, beauty school fans, the same article just cited also suggests that a beauty school is still planned for the old Kress Building.
• There is no signal that Tennessee Shines will emerge from its hiatus.
• Sundown in the City is back in its scaled-down incarnation. That link will give you the entire schedule of five concerts starting next week (April 21- Randy Houser) and happening sporadically through June 16 (probably the most exciting to me: Warren Haynes with opening act the Black Cadillacs). This news is great or terrible to downtown residents and businesses depending on one's perspective - and many people have a strong one. For me it's good news. Being able to walk to Sundown concerts was a big draw for me to move downtown. I love it in all its sloppy, ugly beauty.
• Work is moving forward steadily at the corner of Jackson and Gay on residences and retail space.
• Improvements to Jackson Avenue Office/Retail space on the block just east of Central are very impressive and the space appears ready or near ready for lease.

So there you go. Now you are up to date on all the big business news I've caught lately. Now you see why I read Property Scope. It's not just about downtown, but often that's where I learn about business developments downtown. You might want to check it out. In the meantime, hang on for the ride. 2011 is off to a fast start for downtown development. Also, if you come across a tidbit you think the Urban Nation might like to know, pass it to me at KnoxvilleUrbanGuy@gmail.com.

Blue Coast Burrito is Open!

Open for Business - Blue Coast Burrito, Knoxville, March 24, 2011

In what promises to be a season of full of openings, Blue Coast Burrito became the first new business to open its doors. It's an exciting new opening on the square and continues a trend of Latin-themed restaurants on the west side of Market Square. It joins Soccer Taco, Cocoa Moon, La Costa and Sangria's. Ironically, given the large number of what you might expect to be similar menus, each place has its own twist on the theme and the prices cover quite a range. For Blue Coast Burrito the spot on that range is at the lower end, which is nice. I love the restaurants on Market Square, but it is difficult for two people to eat dinner for much under $30 and you can easily spend much more. It's pretty easy at Blue Coast Burrito.

The tiny notice that Blue Coast Burrito might open today.

It seemed as if the desire was for a low-key opening. The only indication they would open today that I saw was two small computer-printed notices in the window yesterday. Even the wording left some question in my mind. It said, "Please visit us on Thursday, March 24" in very small font beneath a notification that training was in progress. I thought maybe this was a second open-house, but we went there on hopes it was a quiet opening and it was.

Christy very helpfully explains the process and the menu

We were met at the door by Christy who explained how to order and gave suggestions and explanations of the menu. Everyone was exceptionally friendly and keen to see that we had a good experience. I chose two steak tacos in corn tortillas while Urban Woman tried a latinga chicken burrito. The service through the line was great, though folks are obviously still learning. The meal with drinks, food and tax came to just over $16. That's hard to beat downtown.

An Urban Woman makes her selections in the food line.

We took our food upstairs to the Margarita Room, which is cozy and features a nice view from the big windows beside each table. A bar is located upstairs which served only beer for the first day because the paperwork had not come through to serve mixed drinks, though we were told margaritas would be served starting tomorrow.

Seating area on the first floor, Blue Coast Burrito, Knoxville

How was the food? One small problem presented itself: the burrito was cold. I'm not sure how that happened since we watched them make it, but when it was pointed out to the staff, we were immediately given another one which, after being put together, was steamed. I'd recommend that you ask for that. After that small glitch we enjoyed each of our dishes very much. The burrito was spicy, which we love and the corn tortillas (you can have flour if you prefer) were very tasty and the steak also was very good.

Upstairs view from the rear - Bar and seating - Blue Coast Burrito

I also liked the fact that, with the structure of the food preparation, you can get your food, eat and get out quickly, yet it also seems like the kind of place (particularly upstairs) you wouldn't mind lingering. There are televisions mounted on the walls, which I realize is the expectation in a casual dining situation in 2011, but which I do not like. Still, and those of you who read this blog regularly know this would be important to me, the sound on the televisions is muted in favor of excellent music playing at a perfect volume over the sound system. It was loud enough to listen to if you are so inclined, and low enough to hold a conversation without shouting at the people across the table.

Cozy nook in the front of upstairs - Oldest facade on Market Square in clear view.

I think they fill a void in terms of price for the quality of food and I'm quite certain we'll be back. I'd encourage you to give it a chance the next time you are downtown. I'd bet you'll enjoy it.

Blue Coast Burrito Holds Open House, Sort of

Future Home of Blue Coast Burrito, 37 Market Square, Knoxville

Fresh on the heels of Nama's opening last week came news that Blue Coast Burrito would hold an Open House from 4:00 to 6:00 on Tuesday. The best I could do was 5:30. A sign was posted in the front window which revealed a rendering of the final product as well as a statement indicating that we "are going to be neighbors." As I looked in the front door and began to take pictures, I was a little surprised that so much work would be underway during an open house, but there were men in suits about, also, so I went about my blogga man business until I was approached by a nice man who asked if he might help me.

Entrance to Blue Coast Burrito, 37 Market Square, Knoxville, March 1, 2011

I could tell from the way he framed his question that he didn't particularly expect me, which was surprising for someone hosting an open house. As we talked it became clear that he hadn't gotten the memo about an open house. He was quite surprised to learn that it had been on the Property Scope blog on the Knoxville News Sentinel site, though he did acknowledge that the writer of that blog, Josh Flory, had come by earlier.

Bottom Floor, Serving Island, Blue Coast Burrito, Market Square Knoxville

The person assuming the role of surprised general manager was Garry Burke, who proved to be a gracious, if somewhat surprised host. He offered to take me on an impromptu tour, which I very much appreciated. The bottom floor will have a serving island which will cater to guests on two sides. Each person picks their own fresh ingredients from the island and a burrito is assembled to their specifications.

Margarita bar on second floor, Blue Coast Burrito

Emphasis is placed on "fresh" and Gary assured me the vegetables will be purchased from local farmers. Upstairs is the margarita bar, with seating planned to be scattered throughout. The idea is that customers may bring their burritos from downstairs and find a table or may simply come upstairs for a drink, with the option of filling out an order for a burrito which will be delivered to them upstairs. He showed me the food preparation area and talked about the outdoor seating, which will be considerable, as well. It is the largest of the stores they have opened, coming in at around 4,000 square feet as opposed to their typical 2,500. The margarita bar is their first attempt at that idea.

Gary Burke, General Manager and All Around Nice Guy, Blue Coast Burrito

He's excited about the opening and, optimistically expects that to be in about two weeks. Maybe his next move should be to cross the square and help some folks on the other side get a move on. When it opens, this will make the fifth restaurant on that side of the Square to prepare foods with a southwestern/Mexican/Hispanic theme, joining Soccer Taco, Cocoa Moon, La Costa and Sangria's. We don't have much in the way of ethnic sections of town, so maybe this could be our Little Mexico or Little Hispaniola. I'm not sure how Subway fits in, but then they are always closed when I'm around, so maybe they don't count so much.

Food Prep Area, Blue Coast Burrito, March 1, 2011

Applications being accepted on the Bill Lyons Pavilion for Blue Coast Burrito

So, mark it on your calendars - sometime around the middle of the month - and we'll meet and check out some fresh burritos. If these openings keep up all spring I'll have to buy bigger blogga britches.

When We Get Behind Closed Doors

I doubt this is what Charlie Rich had in mind when he penned that song, but I've noticed what seems to be a shift in standard operating procedure for businesses completing renovations or moving into new downtown location: privacy barriers. Not all of them are following suit, but I wonder if it is a good idea. Are they worried that a blogger might snap a picture or two?

Fort Hotel St. Oliver obstructing the sidewalk, Union Avenue, Knoxville, February 2011

The first place I noticed this was with the Hotel St. Oliver renovation. It's impossible to miss: they've built a fortress across the sidewalk and out into the street preventing any possible glimpse of what they are up to and obstructing foot traffic in the mean time. The work on the Daylight building kept that stretch of Union from being navigable on the sidewalks for a long time, now we have The Fortress and the construction on the sidewalks a block away.

Union Avenue Books: Simple, yet elegant brown paper wall, Knoxville, February 2011

The other business clearly following this practice is the new Union Avenue Books. At least they aren't obstructing the sidewalk. They simply covered their windows with brown paper. I'm thinking a good step ladder would get me into viewing range, so if you see a guy walking down the sidewalk with a ladder, that's probably me.

Union Avenue Books: circa one week Pre-Brown Paper Era, Knoxville, February 2010

Union Avenue Books, check out desk looks suspiciously like Carpe Librum

Taking the opposite tact is the new Blue Coast Burrito, as well as the new Nama location. Each of them are on display as their stores take shape. Thanks to their approach I can report that Nama is looking almost ready to open and a sign on the door says they are hiring experienced sushi chefs. Blue Coast Burrito is also suddenly moving along on their interior work, though they clearly aren't close to opening.

Presumed location of the Lunchbox, Market Street, Knoxville, February 2011

Rounding out the secrecy discussion is possibly the most secret of all: the Lunchbox. It's so secret I can't find it. It's in the Bank East building on the 600 block of Market Street, facing Krutch Park according to the article in the News Sentinel. That's pretty specific. I actually think I've seen it, but I"m not sure. The stealth weapon in this case? Simple blinds. They're closed. The description that says the new store "faces Krutch Park" is also a little off the mark, if I've got the right location. The view of Krutch park is a block away and it is the corner of the park.

The new Lunchbox as seen from Krutch Park (other side of the parked car)

Krutch Park viewed from the new Lunchbox location

I believe it creates excitement among downtown visitors, but particularly residents, as we see the new businesses take shape. Even though it might be a slight bother, the opportunity to wave to the new owners or stop in and introduce ourselves begins to build the bonds that will be necessary if the business is to succeed. It's never too early to start.

In the meantime, if I see any pesky blogger running around with a camera, I'll be sure to let you know.

Business Update in the Center City

One of the oldest restaurants downtown, Arby's abruptly announced its closing, December 2010

After featuring some changes happening in the Old City yesterday, it seems only right to follow up a bit with what's happening up the hill. In the previous post I mentioned the fact that Nama is moving to the spot beside the Regal Cinemas and that's probably the biggest news on Gay Street. The other news in the last few weeks was of a more negative nature: Arby's closed. I'll confess to never having eaten there and apparently I'm not alone. Still, it was the only old-fashioned fast food downtown and it seemed to have its place. I suspect if I worked downtown, rather than living here, I would appreciate a place to snag a fast and cheap meal at lunchtime. It's getting harder to do that downtown. It occupied a prime location at the corner of Union and Gay and I imagine someone will grab it in short order.

Ice Skating Rink dematerializes, Market Square, January 2011

There are a few other projects percolating in the area that seem to warrant an update. Even as the ice skating rink is being dismantled, plans are being made for new businesses.

Just Ripe seems a long way from ripening, Daylight Building, January 2010

The new year should bring openings of Blue Coast Burrito on the northwest corner of Market Square and Just Ripe in the Daylight building. Both seem to be moving very slowly. While the exterior of the building appears ready to go at 37 Market Square, the interior still has a gravel floor. It seems a long way from opening. Just Ripe seems closer, but still a long way from having shelves stocked. It seems to have slowed so much that the hoped-for December opening, which turned to a possible January opening, may become a February opening. I was hoping it would help take the sting out of the seasonal loss of the farmer's market, but it appears it may open as anticipation is building for this spring's market.


Hotel Saint Oliver, January 2011

One of the major business stories being followed downtown is the purchase, closure and renovation of the Hotel Saint Oliver in the Kern building at 1 Market Square. I assume the goal is to go from shabby-elegant to more elegant. The new proprietors indicated they want to have more of a presence for the hotel on the Square. I'm not sure how they can accomplish this without removing the Market Square Kitchen, which seems to be a popular breakfast and lunch destination. I haven't heard any mention of removing the restaurant, but I don't see how the hotel is a factor on the square, other than the rooms that overlook it, unless they do so. Stay tuned on that.



There are also vacancies awaiting a commitment from an entrepreneur. Just a few doors down from the Kern Building is the now vacant former-home of Abode. I strongly hope we get another retail store selling useful items to downtown residents and not another restaurant. I think downtown can still support additional restaurants if they are different from the current offerings, but I certainly don't think that is our greatest need, right now. Also vacant is office space immediately west of the Kern Building on Union Avenue. Further out Union Avenue is the Daylight Building, home of Just Ripe, mentioned above. It also has vacancies in a very nice spot just a couple of blocks off Market Square nestled in among Just Ripe, John Black Photography and the Happy Envelope.



2011 promises to be a busy new year for downtown as change seems to be the only constant. Change is one of the most exciting elements to urban living. Something new always arrives, something old disappears and is mourned and, most predictably, there will always be a surprise just around the next corner.

Taking Care of Business

If there is one constant downtown, it's the flux. Businesses come, businesses go, businesses get proposed and forgotten. Here are updates on a few that I've spotted:

New windows, 37 Market Square, Knoxville, September 2010

Framing for the entrance at 37 Market Square, Knoxville, September 2010

37 Market Square seems to be coming along in fits and starts. It was previously reported that it would be a two story restaurant, but now we know which one. Josh Flory got the scoop today on what is going into the space: Blue Coast Burrito, though the indication is that it won't open before January.  That makes two Mexican styled restaurants on the square with this and Soccer Taco, plus the Spanish influenced foods at Sangria's.

A view through the front entrance, 37 Market Square, Knoxville, September 2010

Soccer Taco seems always packed, though I have to say I've eaten there twice and not been very excited by the experience. The service was not exactly rendered with a smile and the food was adequate, but not delicious. I like Sangria's a bit better, but they don't seem to be packing in the crowds. Maybe there is a place for them all. It will be interesting to see.

Nouveau Classics and For Sale sign side by side, 100 Block Gay Street, Knoxville

Nouveau Classics, 100 Block of Gay Street. You may not look until Thursday!

On the southeast corner of the 100 Block of Gay Street, furniture store Nouveau Classics is set to open September 30. This is also interesting because they are right around the corner from long-term Knoxville furniture store, O.P. Jenkins. While they are both furniture stores, one is more traditional and the other store is targeting young urbanites.

Their door was open when I last passed there and I took a couple of pictures through the open door from the sidewalk, but a lady quickly emerged and asked what I was doing in a stern sort of way. I told her I was taking pictures and told her about the blog and she insisted that I not post the pictures because they aren't ready. She looked as if she considered grabbing my camera. I told her I wouldn't use the pictures and she looked skeptical.

I guess I get it that you want your business presented in the best light, but it is free publicity and, as you might guess, the store has to be pretty close to what it will look like thirty-six hours after that conversation. Besides, isn't being friendly to a blogger more likely to get your store presented in the best light?

Carleo's, 117 Central, Old City, Knoxville

Down on Central in the Old City I had a slightly less intense conversation, but also not so warm and friendly. This business has been spotlighted on The Bottom Line. A bar called "Carleo's" opened last weekend, but has its official grand opening this week. A guy working outside described it as a neighborhood pub. He also seemed guarded as I asked him about the place. I'm not sure who I spoke to, but Duane Carleo is the owner and he's had a number of other ventures including Southbound and Da Vinci's Pizza in the Old City.

Am I the only curious person in the city and so I stand out as dangerous? I wonder if these folks have considered that people passing their soon-to-be-opened businesses are their potential customers? I don't mean to exaggerate the interactions, no one was extremely rude, and I do want people to check out new businesses downtown, but a little friendliness goes a long way. John Black was so friendly that it made me more likely to use his business and to encourage others to do so. That's how it works. I'll end with a picture from a shoot he was doing as I passed.

Boy with a spectacular Mohawk is photographed by John Black