HOUSTON – A popular restaurant in one of Houston's trendy neighborhoods has closed its doors for good. Now some folks are asking what's next for Midtown?
On Sunday, Farrago Restaurant, a prominent spot for weekend brunch and lunch during the week closed for good. On Facebook, Farrago explained how the doubling of rent was the final straw that forced the closure after more than 13 years in business.
"For a small business or business, I hate to hear that, first of all," said RE/MAX realtor J.D. Adamson. "But, I guess it's not completely surprising."
Adamson works in Midtown and is familiar with how rising prices have hurt some smaller businesses. He said even though the popular strip in Midtown on Gray Street near Bagby may have some vacancies now, he thinks there is a light at the end of the tunnel with continued growth in both commercial and residential real estate.
"I think this is just the beginning for the next four to five years," said Adamson.
Steve Alaniz is about to open a new barber shop in Midtown – a unique business he thinks will do well. But, he admits that he can't help but think what about the others who have gone under.
"I know this area, all the property values have gone up, but I know there are certain businesses here -- there is a lot of competition," said Alaniz.
As Alaniz gets ready to open his barber shop nearby, he hopes business will pick up.
He admits his rent isn't cheap and he will have to pay about $3,000 per month for his location.
"A lot of people like to walk around this area, people like to explore and that's what we are counting on," he said.
So far, there is no word on which business will fill Farrago's corner spot on Gray.