Few more downtown updates
Some of this is new, some is old depending on how closely you follow us. Our last post got a good response so we'll keep sharing these here and in The Michigander newsletter.
209 S Ashley (former Running Exchange, across from Recess and the old Downtown Home & Garden): Purgatory Exchange is opening, a place to buy and sell used clothes. It's a large space so will be interesting to see this come together. Opening date: TBD
200 S Ashley (Formerly vacant): Aperitivo is set to open in June 2026. Cocktails, wine, beer, and snacks. Newly painted building, signs up, a cute yellow awning, and a really nice interior. This spot sat vacant for a LONG time and they managed to keep part of the flower mural we've all come to love. Excited for this one.
617 E Liberty (former Molly's Cupcakes): Orijin Bakery opening this summer. We posted about this in our last newsletter. Basically, it's a partnership between The Boro's pastry chef Jin Capobianco Gorian and Sava Farah of The Pulpo Group. Located right near Farah's first restaurant, Sava's. Sava is a total powerhouse and continuing to make waves in the AA food scene.
115 E Liberty (former Robotics Supply): Bev's Bagels is still TBD. No visible progress at the site. We've reached out to ownership about timeline and they responded "I wish". Asked for clarification and did not hear anything back. Will update hear if we hear back. Still hopeful it happens.
405 S Main (ground floor of The Standard): Stubborn Pizza renovation is continuing and making progress. Many Michigander readers say this will be the best pie in AA. Set to open summer 2026.
On the downtown construction: we talked to some business owners downtown and it's really hurting them right now. The DDA put up generic "Business Open" signs (which is better than nothing) and we sent feedback that it wasn't enough. They're now making signs with each impacted business's logo. Not perfect, but credit to them for being super responsive to the concerns we raised.
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