2009.02.27
Tavern on the Market to take over Chico's?
All signs point to yes.
Chico's Big Lick Pizza, which has been around Roanoke in various forms for a couple of decades, won't be making pies for much longer. They're having a big farewell party tomorrow for the pizza joint, which has been counting down the days with a sign posted at their stall.
But the future of that particular stall may include pizza. According to the Roanoke City Council agenda for Monday, the council will hold a public hearing on the takeover of that stall by C. Roger Lamm III, doing business as Big Lick Pizza Co. Roger Lamm is the owner of Tavern on the Market.
If Tavern keeps the pizza boat afloat, can we expect it to taste the same as Chico's pie? Will it be better or worse?
Do you all think this is a good move for the citizens of Roanoke?
Lindsey-
At this point, I think almost anything that keeps the restaurants locally owned and operated in the Market Building is a good thing. From what I understand, in recent years a megachain has eyed the Market Building for one of their stores. Given the number of long-time, local merchants that have closed there recently, I think the community should support local (or at least independent) ownership in that building as long as these new folks are positive influences on the building and the community.
The message becomes clearer every day...if we don't support the REAL Roanoke and surrounding valleys, the City and environs are destined to become one big landing spot for multichain franchises, and the mediocrity they often bring with them. Is Mr. Lamm a local? Regardless, he has done a great job with the Tavern, and I trust his business model will be the same and make one of the last true taverns in downtown even better.
Comment by Jay — February 27, 2009 @ 7:34 pm
Personally I'm not afraid of big, bad chain restaurants. I actually quite enjoy some of them.
Still, I tend to agree that the Market building would be better kept local. It's part of the unique local charm that visitors get to see when they come downtown for the museum or for conferences at Hotel Roanoke.
I think it's especially important to preserve the variety of options that are there now. The Market building has some unique ethnic and specialty vendors, and in my opinion they are what really makes it more than just a typical shopping-mall food court.
Comment by Mark R — March 1, 2009 @ 8:58 am
My students have enjoyed Chico's pizza during field trips to the Science Museum downtown. Let's hope if the spot's taken over by Lamm, the quality and price of the product will remain the same.
Comment by Amy — March 1, 2009 @ 7:11 pm
The City Market Building has done its time as a food court. I think the "renovations" have been positive so far. The City has spent way too much time and money focusing on this "gem". I wish the City would leave the old building alone and allow more outdoor market vendors along with new indoor restaurants. Lets mix up the place and give it some character.
Comment by Joe — March 2, 2009 @ 9:49 am
I hope it's the same because Chico's crust is better than any I have tasted. I loved his spinach and tomato pies, they were so good. Gonna miss ya, Chico!
Comment by Kathy — March 2, 2009 @ 12:56 pm
As a visitor to Roanoke 2 or 3 times a year, I always look forward to going to lunch at the Market building. I would surely miss it if it became just another chain resturant. The farmers market is such a nice place to buy fruits and veggies, also flowers. Please let downtown Roanoke remain just like it is.
Comment by mary scharrer — March 3, 2009 @ 7:27 pm