Business & Tech
Bring Back Herberger’s, Esteban’s: Locals Pine For Old Haunts
Many also suggested a downtown drugstore and movie theater in a recent survey about which establishments they'd like to see return.
STILLWATER, MN — Stillwater residents longed for the return of many former businesses over the weekend after Patch asked which establishments they miss most.
“If you could bring back one local business that closed in town (it doesn’t matter how long ago), which would it be?” Stillwater Patch asked Saturday on Facebook.
More than 100 people replied, with at least nine saying they’d bring back Herberger’s, which closed in 2018 after its parent company went bankrupt. Harbor Freight Tools is now on the former Herberger’s property.
Find out what's happening in Stillwaterfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Stillwater Target Store Employees Could Make Up To $24 Per Hour
Patch’s question also sparked a mini debate, as at least eight people called for the return of Esteban’s, while five longed for Smalley’s Caribbean Barbeque & Pirate Bar.
Find out what's happening in Stillwaterfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Both restaurants operated in the Brick Alley building. Smalley’s took over the longtime home of Esteban’s in 2008 before permanently closing its doors about a decade later.
Twin Cities Landmarks Light Up In Show Of Support For Ukraine
At least one person wanted to see the return of the Caribbean Smokehouse, which opened in September 2018 in the Brick Alley building after Smalley’s closure.
The Caribbean Smokehouse temporarily closed in November 2019 before permanently shuttering about a month later, the Twin Cities Pioneer Press reported. Brix Music Cafe now occupies the building at 423 Main St.
Vittorio’s Restaurant, Hooley’s Grocery Store and Dock Cafe also received some love from commenters, while many called for Stillwater to bring back a downtown drug store and movie theater.
COVID-19 Testing Site Closes In Washington Co. For Lack of Demand
At least one reader is already pining for the Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter to return to Stillwater after it closed in December. Owner Kim Quade said she was looking to sell the restaurant to someone who will keep Gasthaus as it was.
Which business would you want to see return to St. Michael? Tell us in the comments, or check out our Facebook thread.
REGIONAL NEWS:
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
