Athens NY Restaurant Closing Nov. 8

[Schaumburger]

Even though I'm just a wannabee, I always stop at Athens NY Restaurant in Spanish Springs when I visit The Villages. I got on their email list a while back. This morning the owners of Athens NY Restaurant emailed that they are closing this coming Sunday, Nov. 8.

According to the email: "Our lease is coming to an end, and we have tried to work with The Villages to renew it. However, they have other plans for this space and decided not to renew our lease." Then the email goes on to thank the customers for their patronage and to invite them to their two other restaurants in Groveland and Apopka. They will continue to cater events in The Villages out of the Groveland restaurant.

If you have a balance on a gift card, the owners said they will refund your balance if you send an email to: athensnyrestaurant@yahoo.com.

I always enjoyed the meals I had at Athens NY Restaurant, and I loved sitting at an outside table and watching the people pass by on the square. A loss for those who like to eat out in The Villages. Just my two cents.

[redwitch]

That's just sad. Thanks for the head's up.

[Newbeginnings]

One the better places to eat in that square, enjoyed the food.

[rubicon]

According to the email: "Our lease is coming to an end, and we have tried to work with The Villages to renew it. However, they have other plans for this space and decided not to renew our lease."

The VLSI Invisible Hand

[Sable99]

I have never been to Athens but it was on my "short list" for our next trip to TV. Especially since it is close to where we will be staying. It makes me wonder why TV wouldn't work with an established business rather than bringing in an unknown entity.

[graciegirl]

According to the email: "Our lease is coming to an end, and we have tried to work with The Villages to renew it. However, they have other plans for this space and decided not to renew our lease."

The VLSI Invisible Hand



What does VLSI Invisible Hand mean?

[newguyintv]

I have never been to Athens but it was on my "short list" for our next trip to TV. Especially since it is close to where we will be staying. It makes me wonder why TV wouldn't work with an established business rather than bringing in an unknown entity.

Rather disconcerting to see how The Villages Owners can remove a very successful tenant in the blink of an eye. I don't know the details but the Restaurant will be sorely missed as another nail (IMHO) will be hammered into a coffin by unscrupulous Villages ownership that some of you continue to sing the praises of no matter what they do. Best of luck to Chris and his family in their other two locations. Where will we get our Zwiegles Hot Dogs now?

[graciegirl]

According to the email: "Our lease is coming to an end, and we have tried to work with The Villages to renew it. However, they have other plans for this space and decided not to renew our lease."

The VLSI Invisible Hand



I found it;


DEFINITION of 'Invisible Hand'

A term coined by economist Adam Smith (http://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/adam-smith.asp) in his 1776 book "An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations". In his book he states:
"Every individual necessarily labours to render the annual revenue of the society as great as he can. He generally neither intends to promote the public interest, nor knows how much he is promoting it ... He intends only his own gain, and he is in this, as in many other cases, led by an invisible hand to promote an end which was no part of his intention. Nor is it always the worse for society that it was no part of his intention. By pursuing his own interest he frequently promotes that of the society more effectually than when he really intends to promote it. I have never known much good done by those who affected to trade for the public good (http://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/public-good.asp)."
Thus, the invisible hand is essentially a natural phenomenon that guides free markets (http://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/freemarket.asp) and capitalism (http://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/capitalism.asp) through competition for scarce resources.


Read more: Invisible Hand Definition | Investopedia (http://www.investopedia.com/terms/i/invisiblehand.asp#ixzz3qQk4yynq) http://www.investopedia.com/terms/i/invisiblehand.asp#ixzz3qQk4yynq
Follow us: Investopedia on Facebook (http://ec.tynt.com/b/rf?id=arwjQmCEqr4l6Cadbi-bnq&u=Investopedia)

[graciegirl]

I have never been to Athens but it was on my "short list" for our next trip to TV. Especially since it is close to where we will be staying. It makes me wonder why TV wouldn't work with an established business rather than bringing in an unknown entity.



Exactly. It could be that it wasn't going well. Two restaurants on that square are closing. Maybe the owner is getting older and wants to retire. Isn't he in his seventies? An established business that pays it's rent on time is very desirable. Why would you want a new one?

[chuckinca]

Athens appeared to be doing very well. The OP mentioned that TV wouldn't renew their lease because they had other plans for the location.

One of our favorites.

.

[Schaumburger]

I'm not sure how old the owner of Athens are, but they (Christopher and Amber Kitrinos) did mention in their email that they have had two daughters since opening Athens 5 years ago. I did love the breakfasts at Athens.

[newguyintv]

Exactly. It could be that it wasn't going well. Two restaurants on that square are closing. Maybe the owner is getting older and wants to retire. Isn't he in his seventies? An established business that pays it's rent on time is very desirable. Why would you want a new one?

You are wrong on all counts. The business is very successful. The Owner is in his forties, its his Father who is in his sixties. There is more than meets the eye to this story so suggest unless you know the facts that you stop posting erroneous information. My guess is the TV does not wnat them around to compete with Katie Belles when it reopens.

[Chi-Town]

ATHENS NY RESTAURANT


THANK YOU!

It's been an incredible 5 years here in The Villages but it's time to say goodbye. Our lease is coming to an end and we have tried to work with The Villages to renew it. However they have other plans for this space and decided not to renew our lease. Our doors will be closing this Sunday 11/8.

We wanted to take a minute to say Thank you to everyone for their support. Majority of you have been with us since our doors opened. You have seen us grow into what we have become. You have been with us during the births of our two beautiful daughters and have given us nothing but love and support. We will be forever grateful.

We would love for you to join us at our other locations to still enjoy your breakfast and lunch. Our new establishments are called Flapjack Johnny's. We have two locations Groveland and Apopka. They are open Mon-Sun 7am to 2:30pm. Our Groveland location will also be opened on Friday nights for dinner until 9pm. Come and enjoy our Famous Haddock Fish Fry. So if you are ever in the area please stop on by to see us.

Our catering will still be opened but just out of our Flapjack Johnny's Groveland location. We will continue to cater events in The Villages and surrounding areas.

Once our doors close on Sunday and you have a balance on your gift card, please email us with your name, address and gift card number and we will be more than happy to refund your balance.

Our email address is athensnyrestaurant@yahoo.com

*

Once again on behalf of our family and staff Thank You from the bottom of our hearts for all of your support.

Sincerely,

Christopher & Amber Kitrinos

Owners

Athens NY Restaurant

*

Flapjack Johnny's Groveland

7432 Hwy 50 Suite 103

Groveland, FL

*

Flapjack Johnny's Apopka

2171 E Semoran Blvd

Apopka, FL

(In the Wekiva Riverwalk Plaza. Next to Marshall's)

[dbussone]

You are wrong on all counts. The business is very successful. The Owner is in his forties, its his Father who is in his sixties. There is more than meets the eye to this story so suggest unless you know the facts that you stop posting erroneous information. My guess is the TV does not wnat them around to compete with Katie Belles when it reopens.

Seems to me that each poster has as much right to post their opinion as you do. Your constant negativity toward the developer is your opinion, and likely erroneous, but you still have the right post it, don't you?

[Bonny]

You are wrong on all counts. The business is very successful. The Owner is in his forties, its his Father who is in his sixties. There is more than meets the eye to this story so suggest unless you know the facts that you stop posting erroneous information. My guess is the TV does not wnat them around to compete with Katie Belles when it reopens.
I would think, just as you, everyone is free to post their opinions.

[newguyintv]

Seems to me that each poster has as much right to post their opinion as you do. Your constant negativity toward the developer is your opinion, and likely erroneous, but you still have the right post it, don't you?

When people make untrue statements they should be called to task. You have no idea about the history behind this situation so please don't let your unbridled devotion to the developer blind you from the facts.

[newguyintv]

I would think, just as you, everyone is free to post their opinions.

Opinions are one thing; erroneous and misinformation is quite another.

[asianthree]

It was a great place for breakfast. I do know that a couple of the workers lived in Michigan and we brought down to help run the business. It was doing well. I know what it's like to have a successful business and then have The owner want something else in your spot. They just raise the rent to what you can't afford to make it work. So you move. But the business rarely survives in a different spot as well as the first. Right or wrong it's the owner of the building that wants to make a better profit.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

If you own a business and lease the property that the business is one, then you know that the lease will end at some point. Unless there is an automatic renewal in perpetuity clause a business owner knows that there may come a day when the property owner decides to not renew the lease for whatever reason.

Property owners do with their property what is best for them. Is there anything wrong with that?

If you own a home and rent it out on a yearly basis, each year you will probably increase the rent. If the renter decides that the rent is too high, he has the option of moving out.

If someone comes along and offers to buy the property for more than what it is worth, you might choose to sell the property when the lease ends.

What is the problem here? The Villages owns the property and has rented it to this business for a specific period of time. That time is up. The Villages has decided to do something else with the property. That is their business and their right.

The business owner, on the other hand has the option to either close up shop or move their business to another location. That is their business and their right.

[rustyp]

It could be The Developer plans to use this facility as the ticket booth for the new monorail system.

[graciegirl]

You are wrong on all counts. The business is very successful. The Owner is in his forties, its his Father who is in his sixties. There is more than meets the eye to this story so suggest unless you know the facts that you stop posting erroneous information. My guess is the TV does not wnat them around to compete with Katie Belles when it reopens.



So you think that the Morses are trying to rent out the space now used for a restaurant for something other than a restaurant so as to make Katie Belle's more successful?


I would like to point out that in the last few years the Morses have sold out their restaurant businesses; Cane Garden, The Lighthouse, and the place that is now Panera's.


But maybe you are right. We will see.

[dbussone]

When people make untrue statements they should be called to task. You have no idea about the history behind this situation so please don't let your unbridled devotion to the developer blind you from the facts.

I hardly have unbridled devotion to the developer. However I don't understand how any individual can be so negative. If you have "facts" why not share them. And for goodness sakes if you are so miserable here in TV why not look for someplace where you can be happier. Life is too short to go through it with chronic negativity. And we are all getting older by the day. When you first started posting you WERE the new guy in TV - but you are now the "been here for awhile guy"

[NYGUY]

I guess I will have to go back to getting my Zweigle's Hot Dogs shipped in from Rochester.

This is the place I used for years:

NY Style Deli -- Welcome (http://www.nystyledeli.com/cgi-bin/deli/index.html)

[graciegirl]

I read this and thought the father was older;

Athens NY Restaurant - Home (http://www.athensnyrestaurant.com/)

Inside the link here is a quote;



"Our family recipes have been handed down from many generations and will continue throughout the years. We don't believe in frozen processed foods. All of our foods are prepared each and every day fresh. Our desserts are made by our father who has been around the world learning new recipes.

With over 50 years of Hospitality experience, the Kitrinos family has been providing families, friends, and businesses from all around the world with exceptional elegance and creativity in the gourmet foods that they have created. From extravagant hotels to casinos and from famous race tracks to exotic ships, the history behind our family continues today within our dishes here in The Villages, Florida."

[TheVillageChicken]

You are wrong on all counts. The business is very successful. The Owner is in his forties, its his Father who is in his sixties. There is more than meets the eye to this story so suggest unless you know the facts that you stop posting erroneous information. My guess is the TV does not wnat them around to compete with Katie Belles when it reopens.

I do love irony.

[dbussone]

Would it surprise you to know I have been here since the total population of TV was less than 8000, so I could probably tell you a few things about the place that you have no idea about. You assume I don't like it here which is simply another way of saying you haven't a clue about what you are talking about. Too bad if you don't like my opinion about certain issues; I don't much care for yours either!


///

[billethkid]

There have been many businesses over the years that have left for one reason or another and the most prevelent, most convenient, most used excuse was the rent was to high and could not make it work or TV did not renew the lease.

I suggest without first hand knowledge of the real reasons being actually KNOWN, to not blame TV. Having been involved in more than one of the lease arrangements with TV, I can offer the little I consider myself to know. For sure there is usually within an original lease or a renewal the option for another 5 years or two 5 year options. In the event of a lease not having any options to renew the establishment doing the leasing knows right then and there they are subject to potential non renewal.

Why would one either make a lease or renew without options for renewal? It costs no more. It does not commit one to stay. And it protects the availability of the location/establishment.

To me to hear TV would not renew the lease does not make sense and sounds like the easy explanation being used again. There is more to the story!

[CFrance]

Exactly. It could be that it wasn't going well. Two restaurants on that square are closing. Maybe the owner is getting older and wants to retire. Isn't he in his seventies? An established business that pays it's rent on time is very desirable. Why would you want a new one?

Do you happen to know if he doesn't pay his rent on time? And you are quite productive in your seventies, right? I know several people still working in their seventies. And if he is still keeping two ohther restos open in other locations, I doubt The Villages is just thinking, "oh, he's too old and might retire soon."

[graciegirl]

Do you happen to know if he doesn't pay his rent on time? And you are quite productive in your seventies, right? I know several people still working in their seventies. And if he is still keeping two ohther restos open in other locations, I doubt The Villages is just thinking, "oh, he's too old and might retire soon."



My POINT was that HE Mr.Athens the older, might want to retire. Not that he didn't pay his rent or didn't cook nice.


Sometimes people use face saving excuses for things like this...and it could be the gawdawful truth that the danged Morses want to double the rent or something.


I sure hope that the Morses are as nice as I think they are, but ya never know. WHY would the Morses want to get rid of a good tenant? Perhaps the tenant wanted to quit? Maybe? Huh? Perhaps? Their lease was up.

Maybe they will reopen in another location that is lower rent and bigger and nicer? We will just wait and see.

[njbchbum]

There have been many businesses over the years that have left for one reason or another and the most prevelent, most convenient, most used excuse was the rent was to high and could not make it work or TV did not renew the lease.

snipped

To me to hear TV would not renew the lease does not make sense and sounds like the easy explanation being used again. There is more to the story!

Isn't that building being renovated to facilitate first floor retail - and perhaps this is the last piece in that plan? And that's why TV would not offer to renew?

[graciegirl]

Isn't that building being renovated to facilitate first floor retail - and perhaps this is the last piece in that plan? And that's why TV would not offer to renew?



More retail and fewer restaurants is not a conducive draw to tourists, guests and villagers. And to related businesses on the square.

[Bogie Shooter]

Rather disconcerting to see how The Villages Owners can remove a very successful tenant in the blink of an eye. I don't know the details but the Restaurant will be sorely missed as another nail (IMHO) will be hammered into a coffin by unscrupulous Villages ownership that some of you continue to sing the praises of no matter what they do. Best of luck to Chris and his family in their other two locations. Where will we get our Zwiegles Hot Dogs now?

You are wrong on all counts. The business is very successful. The Owner is in his forties, its his Father who is in his sixties. There is more than meets the eye to this story so suggest unless you know the facts that you stop posting erroneous information. My guess is the TV does not wnat them around to compete with Katie Belles when it reopens.

When people make untrue statements they should be called to task. You have no idea about the history behind this situation so please don't let your unbridled devotion to the developer blind you from the facts.

I guess it makes a difference who is posting the erroneous information...........

[CFrance]

My POINT was that HE Mr.Athens the older, might want to retire. Not that he didn't pay his rent or didn't cook nice.


Sometimes people use face saving excuses for things like this...and it could be the gawdawful truth that the danged Morses want to double the rent or something.


I sure hope that the Morses are as nice as I think they are, but ya never know. WHY would the Morses want to get rid of a good tenant? Perhaps the tenant wanted to quit? Maybe? Huh? Perhaps? Their lease was up.

Maybe they will reopen in another location that is lower rent and bigger and nicer? We will just wait and see.

I think the reality is somewhere between those who think they walk on water and those who think everything they do is from greed. Hopefully a new resto will go in there, as it's one of the most popular, if not THE most popular, things to do in The Villages.

[outlaw]

A TV business insider told me: When a successful business in TV is up for lease renegotiation, the developer demands a sizable portion of future business profits in addition to rent. This insider told me there have been several businesses that closed up because of this negotiation tactic.

[Railcruiser]

Another loss for Villages North.

[twoplanekid]

Another loss for Villages North.

I hope more things go south! Not bad, just closer to me some 14 miles to the south.:wave:

[graciegirl]

A TV business insider told me: When a successful business in TV is up for lease renegotiation, the developer demands a sizable portion of future business profits in addition to rent. This insider told me there have been several businesses that closed up because of this negotiation tactic.



With all due respect to you, Outlaw, I have heard that rumor over and over and it was directly answered by the person who works for The Villages in charge of commercial leases some time ago who said it wasn't so. I will try to find that thread.


The rent IS probably high in the squares. It usually is in successful tourist areas. Not everyone can handle the overhead. For that reason I rarely shop in tourist areas because I know the overhead is high. You can get more bargains in lower rent areas.


I haven't located that information but found this while looking.

This thread is from 2008.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/restaurant-discussions-90/why-do-so-many-restaurants-fail-villages-15889/?highlight=commercial+leases

[twoplanekid]

With all due respect to you, Outlaw, I have heard that rumor over and over and it was directly answered by the person who works for The Villages in charge of commercial leases some time ago who said it wasn't so. I will try to find that thread.


The rent IS probably high in the squares. It usually is in successful tourist areas. Not everyone can handle the overhead. For that reason I rarely shop in tourist areas because I know the overhead is high. You can get more bargains in lower rent areas.


I haven't located that information but found this while looking.

This thread is from 2008.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/restaurant-discussions-90/why-do-so-many-restaurants-fail-villages-15889/?highlight=commercial+leases

I keep telling my wife that she should shop outside of the Villages!

[goodtimesintv]

Another loss for Villages North.

A "loss" for TV north???? When Katie Belles is being renovated top to bottom, to become an entirely new, classy venue that people under age 90 would be attracted to?? The Athens commercial space is SO logically a part of that whole venue!

Get over the envy of the developers! Take the risks with your personal assets that THEY did, and build it yourself here if their results and fiscal sustainability are so offensive to you.

[newguyintv]

a "loss" for tv north???? When katie belles is being renovated top to bottom, to become an entirely new, classy venue that people under age 90 would be attracted to?? The athens commercial space is so logically a part of that whole venue!

Get over the envy of the developers! Take the risks with your personal assets that they did, and build it yourself here if their results and fiscal sustainability are so offensive to you.

wow!

[Bonny]

A "loss" for TV north???? When Katie Belles is being renovated top to bottom, to become an entirely new, classy venue that people under age 90 would be attracted to?? The Athens commercial space is SO logically a part of that whole venue!

Get over the envy of the developers! Take the risks with your personal assets that THEY did, and build it yourself here if their results and fiscal sustainability are so offensive to you.
:thumbup:

[billethkid]

Isn't that building being renovated to facilitate first floor retail - and perhaps this is the last piece in that plan? And that's why TV would not offer to renew?

Could be. But these kinds of plans don't materialize over night.

At the signing of their original or last lease, they knew when they signed there either was a clause for renewal or there was not. There is usually discussion about including the renewal just simply because it costs nothing...adds not commitment and locks in the property. When the lease is up either renew or not.
So at some point these folks must have signed a lease, knowingly, with no lease renewal clause.

The real question is whether there was a renewal in the lease or not? If yes and TV does not renew it would be breach of contract.
If there was no renewal clause they knew that at the time of signing, there would be no assurance they would get a renewal.

It is easy and convenient to just say I could not get my lease renewed....which may in fact be true, but known way in advance (at lease signing)!!

[applesoffh]

Athens appeared to be doing very well. The OP mentioned that TV wouldn't renew their lease because they had other plans for the location.

One of our favorites.

.

One of our favorites, too. Seems like almost any mom & pop restaurant in TV is doomed. I had never been to Luigino's, which was on a corner and also recently closed. Athens was one of our favorites. Enjoyed the food and the service. Michael went to every table, all the time. Could be that the Powers that Be simply want the prime corners for more lucrative "chain" garbage.

This is sad. Eternally grateful that there are wonderful family-owned restaurants outside TV that we enjoy.

[rubicon]

A "loss" for TV north???? When Katie Belles is being renovated top to bottom, to become an entirely new, classy venue that people under age 90 would be attracted to?? The Athens commercial space is SO logically a part of that whole venue!

Get over the envy of the developers! Take the risks with your personal assets that THEY did, and build it yourself here if their results and fiscal sustainability are so offensive to you.

goodtimesintv: I agree with your 1st paragraph. I disagree with your comment concerning envy""...envy has nothing to do with the number of businesses VLSI smashed because they carry a monopoly and want to control their little fiefdom. Finally didn't Athens take personal risks of their assets and didn't they sweat to build a successful business here?

I admittedly don't care to eat out much but Athens was one of the better restaurants here. I will miss their deep fried haddock. apparently residents' loss is VLSI gain. Cést la vie

I guess I'll never understand the misguided loyalty residents seem to have with a business entity called VLSI...its not wise to love a corporation because its incapable of loving you back....like golf.

Personal Best Regards:

[dewilson58]

Even though I'm just a wannabee, I always stop at Athens NY Restaurant in Spanish Springs when I visit The Villages. I got on their email list a while back. This morning the owners of Athens NY Restaurant emailed that they are closing this coming Sunday, Nov. 8.

According to the email: "Our lease is coming to an end, and we have tried to work with The Villages to renew it. However, they have other plans for this space and decided not to renew our lease." Then the email goes on to thank the customers for their patronage and to invite them to their two other restaurants in Groveland and Apopka. They will continue to cater events in The Villages out of the Groveland restaurant.

If you have a balance on a gift card, the owners said they will refund your balance if you send an email to: athensnyrestaurant@yahoo.com.

I always enjoyed the meals I had at Athens NY Restaurant, and I loved sitting at an outside table and watching the people pass by on the square. A loss for those who like to eat out in The Villages. Just my two cents.

A simple, informative post..............amazing journey for this thread.

[newguyintv]

A simple, informative post..............amazing journey for this thread.

A real loss for us Villagers. Another I don't give a ****, it's just business for TV.

[graciegirl]

goodtimesintv: I agree with your 1st paragraph. I disagree with your comment concerning envy""...envy has nothing to do with the number of businesses VLSI smashed because they carry a monopoly and want to control their little fiefdom. Finally didn't Athens take personal risks of their assets and didn't they sweat to build a successful business here?

I admittedly don't care to eat out much but Athens was one of the better restaurants here. I will miss their deep fried haddock. apparently residents' loss is VLSI gain. Cést la vie

I guess I'll never understand the misguided loyalty residents seem to have with a business entity called VLSI...its not wise to love a corporation because its incapable of loving you back....like golf.

Personal Best Regards:


I think you are reading great respect for a well run business that has nothing to do with love. I think it is extremely wonderful to see the success of a family who has invested their own money, over and over and built a wonderful community.


I grow tired of hearing that every time a restaurant closes here that it is the developer's fault. Some people like family restaurants and some people like chains. I just like decent, good food, prepared, served hot and promptly. People chastise some of us for our admiration for the Morse business and give the same kind of admiration to a restaurant business. It is very hard to keep a restaurant business afloat in Florida with extreme highs and lows in traffic due to tourist seasons. Usually you can tell that a restaurant is peddling as hard as it can when it serves three meals a day, but even that sometimes is not enough to keep it afloat, keep the meals priced where people will buy them with the rising price of food. It is hard work that starts way before the restaurant opens and continues way after it closes. It is some of the hardest work anyone can choose to do, running a successful restaurant. But still doing all things right, sometimes a business closes. None of us know for sure just exactly what the terms were that the two could not agree to, but since the owners are younger, I bet they will continue in another location. Just a guess. I don't know a thing about them other what I have read here.

[Miles42]

Posting opinions that are clearly lacking in truth helps no one understand the situation. There appears to be other plans for the property. I guess we wait and see and just move on. There are some great places to eat in the area surrounding the Villages. We do get to elect the tenants some what with our spending habits.

[goodtimesintv]

goodtimesintv: I agree with your 1st paragraph. I disagree with your comment concerning envy""...envy has nothing to do with the number of businesses VLSI smashed because they carry a monopoly and want to control their little fiefdom. Finally didn't Athens take personal risks of their assets and didn't they sweat to build a successful business here?

I admittedly don't care to eat out much but Athens was one of the better restaurants here. I will miss their deep fried haddock. apparently residents' loss is VLSI gain. Cést la vie

I guess I'll never understand the misguided loyalty residents seem to have with a business entity called VLSI...its not wise to love a corporation because its incapable of loving you back....like golf.

Personal Best Regards:

I don't have undying, misguided love for VLSI. I have RESPECT for them upgrading Spanish Springs and building new homes in the oldest neighborhoods of TV, so that all regions of TV are up to date and appealing to home buyers we will someday want to come and buy OUR homes here.

As one person said here before, the restaurant owner knew when they signed the lease whether they could renew or not. Obviously they kept their other two locations for a time such as this. Maybe they made enough money here and are now quitting while they're ahead. The overall economy is not stable, in fact I'd call it volatile.

[Bogie Shooter]

A real loss for us Villagers. Another I don't give a ****, it's just business for TV.

Just wondering, is this an opinion or a fact based statement?

[graciegirl]

Posting opinions that are clearly lacking in truth helps no one understand the situation. There appears to be other plans for the property. I guess we wait and see and just move on. There are some great places to eat in the area surrounding the Villages. We do get to elect the tenants some what with our spending habits.



What other plans for the property have you heard about that are not rumors or opinions?

[exmayor95]

Owners are in their 30's.

[rustyp]

Someone on this site got it directly from someone who works directly for The Villages that there is a possibility of this parcel becoming a stretch Lantana for someone they can't talk about.

[bookseller61]

Always end up at Athens even if I did not start out there. Felllow upstate New Yorkers. My favorite place

[dbussone]

Just wondering, is this an opinion or a fact based statement?

As in many of his posts it it is an opinion camouflaged as a fact based statement.

[rubicon]

The OP said and another poster followed with the e-mail both of which made it clear that Athens wanted to renew. Anyone with an objective opinion who has witnessed VLSI dealings has come to realize they get what they want. If they find that can turn a better profit margin they desire they move on. Such was the case of the Wellness Center. If one had compared the cost to join the Wellness Center they would have found it similar except that group participation was separate. It costs substantially less with MVP and MVP includes both open area and group programs

I liked Athens because it had a dish that came close to a favorite in central New York. However I do not have a dog in this fight. It just perplexes me why people have such an affinity for a business entity that for business purposes will turn on anyone or anything to turn a profit, that's what corporations do....hence my , you can't love a corporation and as to respect if people had the opportunity to see the inner workings of such a corporation they may not respect it either. Simply stated I am a realist and my comments are not specifically directed to this corporation but to corporations in general of which VLSI is one that residents come in contact with daily
Its all good and in the end it really doesn't matter

Personal Best Regards:

[graciegirl]

The OP said and another poster followed with the e-mail both of which made it clear that Athens wanted to renew. Anyone with an objective opinion who has witnessed VLSI dealings has come to realize they get what they want. If they find that can turn a better profit margin they desire they move on. Such was the case of the Wellness Center. If one had compared the cost to join the Wellness Center they would have found it similar except that group participation was separate. It costs substantially less with MVP and MVP includes both open area and group programs

I liked Athens because it had a dish that came close to a favorite in central New York. However I do not have a dog in this fight. It just perplexes me why people have such an affinity for a business entity that for business purposes will turn on anyone or anything to turn a profit, that's what corporations do....hence my , you can't love a corporation and as to respect if people had the opportunity to see the inner workings of such a corporation they may not respect it either. Simply stated I am a realist and my comments are not specifically directed to this corporation but to corporations in general of which VLSI is one that residents come in contact with daily
Its all good and in the end it really doesn't matter

Personal Best Regards:


I guess then I will have to accept what people are saying that their lease was not renewed because the developer had other plans for the space. After all, it is what the business owner said. I certainly respect your opinion Rubicon. Over time I had called on many small family owned businesses myself and watched many of them thrive and many cease.


We will see what happens to that space.

[Skip]

I guess then I will have to accept what people are saying that their lease was not renewed because the developer had other plans for the space. After all, it is what the business owner said. I certainly respect your opinion Rubicon. Over time I had called on many small family owned businesses myself and watched many of them thrive and many cease.
We will see what happens to that space.

They were offered a new 5 year lease. Chris did not like the new terms. Too costly for him.

Skip

[CFrance]

They were offered a new 5 year lease. Chris did not like the new terms. Too costly for him.

Skip
Please, will you tell us how you know that?

[gerryann]

Please, will you tell us how you know that?

Yes, please let us know. I thought the Athens wanted to renew and they did not offer them a renew because they had plans for the property?

[graciegirl]

I am pretty sure that Skip isn't going to tell you HOW he knows but over time I have come to see that Skip knows a lot of stuff that ordinary villagers don't know. I don't think he is a Morse but I think he is somehow close to the action and knows the back stories around here..


If he says something I would be pretty confidant he is right.

[DigitalGranny]

I just hate to see them go. Thought their Greek dishes were extremely good. Also enjoy lunch outside there with the great live music, and the burgers were my favorite in TV

[KathieI]

I do know for a fact that they were having some financial problems. An acquaintance of mine who worked there, left because a few of his salary checks bounced and even the replacement checks weren't honored. I'm not going to speculate why they had problems but this I know for a fact.

I also know for a fact, that I hated their food, it was God awful. From the first time I went there, I wasn't pleased and only went again because others wanted to go, but I never felt it was good Greek food. So I won't be missing them.

[Skip]

I am pretty sure that Skip isn't going to tell you HOW he knows but over time I have come to see that Skip knows a lot of stuff that ordinary villagers don't know. I don't think he is a Morse but I think he is somehow close to the action and knows the back stories around here..

If he says something I would be pretty confidant he is right.

Thanks. I only share what I know is a fact. I hate rumors.

Skip

[acordeiro]

what are the other plans the TV has

[Bonny]

what are the other plans the TV has
Only the Villages knows. We will wait and see. ;)

[Annie01]

sadly that is NOT true...they had severe rat problems in the kitchen...they were closed DOWN !!!!!

[Annie01]

they had alot of violations..and THEY did NOTHING to fix it..their loss !!!!!

[gerryann]

they had alot of violations..and THEY did NOTHING to fix it..their loss !!!!!

Oh good grief......we all know this is not true.

[dewilson58]

Oh good grief......we all know this is not true.

And we are ignoring.

[Bogie Shooter]

sadly that is NOT true...they had severe rat problems in the kitchen...they were closed DOWN !!!!!

they had alot of violations..and THEY did NOTHING to fix it..their loss !!!!!

Former employee?
What is your source for this accusation?

[rustyp]

sadly that is NOT true...they had severe rat problems in the kitchen...they were closed DOWN !!!!!

Why would it be a no no for this restaurant to have rodents in the kitchen and another one of our revered establishments get a pass? I say they get the pass also. They also published a nice email explaining their situation including to refund any surplus on gift cards.

Can't wait to see what The Developers plan next - whatever it is you can bet it will be first class. Still living the dream.

[Mikeod]

sadly that is NOT true...they had severe rat problems in the kitchen...they were closed DOWN !!!!!
Nothing on the FL Dept of Health or Business and Professions websites.

[Bonny]

sadly that is NOT true...they had severe rat problems in the kitchen...they were closed DOWN !!!!!
Could you share the link to where ever this is stated & who actually closed them down as you say. I have not been able to find this anywhere.
Did you work there?

[Bonny]

sadly that is NOT true...they had severe rat problems in the kitchen...they were closed DOWN !!!!!
I noticed looking at your posts, you have trashed "many" restaurants.
So I assume you are a bartender or a server.

[goodtimesintv]

I do know for a fact that they were having some financial problems. An acquaintance of mine who worked there, left because a few of his salary checks bounced and even the replacement checks weren't honored. I'm not going to speculate why they had problems but this I know for a fact.

I also know for a fact, that I hated their food, it was God awful. From the first time I went there, I wasn't pleased and only went again because others wanted to go, but I never felt it was good Greek food. So I won't be missing them.

Thank you. I believe you're saying the truth.

[yabbadu]

Sadly I will miss their Greek Salads and their dressing. However, went there last night for dinner on the patio and much to my amazement there was a small dog in its dog basket on a chair eating /drinking from a styrofoam carryout container sitting on the table.
Asked hostess if it was OK and the reply was if no one complains it is OK.

Maybe its another reason they are leaving!

[CFrance]

Sadly I will miss their Greek Salads and their dressing. However, went there last night for dinner on the patio and much to my amazement there was a small dog in its dog basket on a chair eating /drinking from a styrofoam carryout container sitting on the table.
Asked hostess if it was OK and the reply was if no one complains it is OK.

Maybe its another reason they are leaving!
Did you complain and say it's not OK with you? Instead of complaining here, complain there instead.

[rustyp]

Sadly I will miss their Greek Salads and their dressing. However, went there last night for dinner on the patio and much to my amazement there was a small dog in its dog basket on a chair eating /drinking from a styrofoam carryout container sitting on the table.
Asked hostess if it was OK and the reply was if no one complains it is OK.

Maybe its another reason they are leaving!

Could it be a comfort dog? Did it have one of the vest things on. We should all respect that some people have ailments that are not obvious. I'm so lucky to be relatively healthy and a bonus to live in a wonderful place like this. Still living the dream.

[goodtimesintv]

Could it be a comfort dog? Did it have one of the vest things on. We should all respect that some people have ailments that are not obvious. I'm so lucky to be relatively healthy and a bonus to live in a wonderful place like this. Still living the dream.

Certified/registered comfort dog status is no excuse for letting a dog eat off the tabletop and have its paws on the table at a restaurant. Licensed service animals are better trained (and obedient) than that, too.

It's bad manners, and besides that, most dog breeders and vets say owners should not feed them table food anyway.

The hostess and other employees approved of the bad behavior when she said it was okay unless somebody complained.

[gerryann]

Didn't anyone read the email that Athens sent out regarding why they are closing? Why all the nasty comments? They're closing tomorrow. Why not let it go?

[yabbadu]

Did you complain and say it's not OK with you? Instead of complaining here, complain there instead.

Only noticed as we were ready to leave. Why complain when I was done and the restaurant was closing the next day!!!

[outlaw]

Didn't anyone read the email that Athens sent out regarding why they are closing? Why all the nasty comments? They're closing tomorrow. Why not let it go?

The email that Athens sent out strongly implied the developer would not renew the lease. Therefore, the defenders of the faith have to denigrate and destroy the "accuser". Happens all the time on here.

[graciegirl]

The email that Athens sent out strongly implied the developer would not renew the lease. Therefore, the defenders of the faith have to denigrate and destroy the "accuser". Happens all the time on here.



Did you figure out who was right? There were also a lot of not nasty comments.

[rustyp]

I wish the people who own The Athen's the best. I enjoyed siting outside listening to the afternoon entertainment many times. Good luck with your new dream.

[outlaw]

Did you figure out who was right? There were also a lot of not nasty comments.

I'm not going to assume the restaurant owner is intentionally trying to deceive anyone, if that's what you're asking. I take it at face value that the developer did not want to renegotiate the lease.

[dewilson58]

85 posts and it's obvious.............none of us know much

[Bogie Shooter]

85 posts and it's obvious.............none of us know much

:eclipsee_gold_cup: