It's here, the off-season shuffle of businesses that occurs on the East End every year in the weeks following Labor Day, intensifying after Columbus Day. Some that typically shutter for the winter months announce that they are closing for good or old staples suddenly vanish as buildings get sold, rents skyrocket, or long-threatened retirements take hold. The losses can be devastating for loyal patrons but sometimes hopeful, as new businesses rise in their place or the general vicinity. Here is this week's tally from what we've heard so far.
Closed: Last week, LT Burger greeted customers with papered over windows and a note. It stated that as of Oct. 17 it would be closed for "renovations and rejuvenation" to open as a "brand new concept" next season. With few family and wallet-friendly spaces left in Sag Harbor, there are probably quite a number of customers hoping for something in a similar vein.
Closed: Schmidt's Market, a mainstay on North Sea Road in Southampton for 42 years, closed on Saturday after Dennis Schmidt, an owner of the business, said he couldn't come to terms with the store's landlord, who wants to sell the property. Mr. Schmidt told News 12 Long Island that his monthly rent was $30,000, or $1,000 per day. "That's a lot of egg sandwiches," he added. He is reportedly looking for a new location. A posting on Instagram thanking customers and staff had an air of finality.
Open: Also in Sag Harbor, Carissa's Bakery's very anticipated new location has finally opened at 3 Bay Street in a sleek white box of a store with the clean lines and minimalism that devotees have come to expect from Carissa Waechter, who has two existing spaces in East Hampton. The shop is takeout only and online orders from the menu can be made ahead of time through the Toast app or website.
Coming soon to the bakery is a Guild Hall "Stirring the Pot" series event on holiday pies on Nov. 12. More details to come in the next column.
