The Saint Paul Condo Blog

I'm starting to dig this mini restaurant war we are having in Downtown, but am growing concerned that these new restaurants might be fighting over just a bit too small of a market.

Faces Mears Park (the former LoTo space) is planning to open in Mid June, and they are already underway with the transformation.  I spoke briefly today with David Fhima, and for all the bad press he's had over the years, I can see why people still give him credit.  He's definitely has a passion for what he does.

Faces Mears Park (personally not sold on that name), will feature an all organic, sustainable menu, brand new deli, and a wine and cheese store.  He's also planning on adding a small selection of cigars to go along with the smoking patio (the patio to the north will be the non-smoking section).

With the Steins & Vines store going defunct (a story for another day), maybe there's still a market for something like the wine and cheese store - time will tell.  Also, I can see some very distinct parallels with David's new concept and Lenny Russo's concept for the new Heartland Cafe that's coming soon to MarketHouse.

And you thought I'd be finished?  Nonsense!  Just because I've slowed down in the blogging front, doesn't mean stuff ain't a happenen in good ole Lowertown!

Swung by MarketHouse today, to find a construction crew tearing out stuff and building new walls in what will become the kitchen!  Last I checked, they are still gunning for a mid July opening.  You can bet with the new Fhima's restaurant, Lenny Russo will be doing all he can to be open sooner :) 

UPDATE:  Thanks to a reader, I'm not as sure of that info about Vines & Steins or whatever it's going to be called is in fact defunct.  Which actually will lead to an interesting battle of another sort.  How many high-end cheese buyers are living in downtown?  If Fhima's going to do it, Lenny's planning on a market, and now this one (albeit the original), how will they all survive?  Could be an interesting version of Survivor - Lowertown Cheese Shops edition.