The exodus of retail shops from Cross Street Plaza continues in the North End with news that DePasquale’s Homemade Pasta Shop is moving to 241 Hanover Street next to Bricco Panetteria. The new shop on Hanover Street will feature an expanded product lineup and be renamed the Bricco Salumeria and Pasta Shoppe.
The pasta shop departure nearly completes the turnover of the original tenants along the Freedom Trail and Greenway location formerly occupied by Martignetti Liquors. Last year, Caffe Graffiti closed at 64 Cross St. and was replaced by the Bread + Butter cafe and bakery. Just last month, it was announced that Amy’s Nails & Spa will be filling in the space left vacant by Nick’s Famous Deli. Still left is Citizen’s Bank that has the sub-lease for the entire property.
No word yet on what will go in the Cross Street space. The photo comes courtesy of @ConciergeBoston, North End resident Adam Castiglioni.
I’ve said this before, there is an issue with perception, the area feels like its a place to walk through and I feel people just disregard what is there. B&B has done a good job opening up and having outdoor seating it makes the place noticeable and inviting. The road there may be a necessity but I feel it would do a lot to make the area more inviting if it was integrated into the storefronts better.
Hopefully, being the gateway to the North End, we will eventually have some attractive shops there. B and B is awesome but the nail place really cheapens the area.
The Retail Rents are not sustainable for Indie Retailers. Unless Citizens Bank as landlord subsidizes better lease terms to promote itself as a neighborhood bank, these Cross Street spaces may become occupied by corporate behemoths as loss-leader flagship locations used mostly for signage and marketing.
This is a great location for a NE visitor’s center with some badly needed public restrooms. That would be an appropriate way to welcome visitors to our neighborhood.
Perhaps the City could work with the Martignetti’s and Citizens to make it happen.
Stephanie,
Great comment. I was stopped by a Japanese family last summer, who inquired as to the location of our restrooms. My mind went blank. Finally, I suggested the firehouse. The tourists bring much business to our neighborhood. We offer them fine Italian cuisine, the Freedom Trail, cafes, Modern Pastry, but no restrooms. How do families with children manage. Restrooms needed here !