flossipflorence

Rumors, Openings, and Closings

RumorsThis post needs your help! Let me know in the comments what you have heard so I can add it to the post!

Rumors, Planned Openings, New Openings

    • Chocobella:  I have seen pictures and they are amazing!
    • If you are a regular or casual shopper of the
      City Center Farmers Market’s Tuesday market, be aware that it is a seasonal market that will close for the season after the Tuesday, December 29th market.
      You can still shop with local farmers, artisans, and food preparers. (Credit:  Downtown Florence Facebook page)
    • The Bean Bar is open!  I finally got a latte with a design! 
    • The Forum Spa moved to 1326 W. Evans Street and is so lovely!
    • We have a cigar bar?  Leaf Lounge
    • New Hyatt Place Hotel. is open and actually has some good appetizers at the bar!
    • The Birds Nest in the old Clay Pot Location (I LOVE APPLE ANNIES!)
    • SC Real Foods has moved to Celebration and it is GREAT!  I got some pimento cheese and other goodies there the other day!
  • Dairy Queen next to WF Wal-Mart (open)
  • Sleep Number Bed? (Total rumor.  Hasn’t happened)
  • Da Massimo is back in Florence… just saw it with my own eyes.
  • Rumor:  Steak and Shake (Clearly not true)
  • Stride Rite is NOT closing and that was a rumor- actually it DID move into the Toy Shop
  • Defy Trampoline Park in the old Piggly Wiggly on Second Loop (Old News)
  • Clean Eatz moved to the Pita Pit Location on W. Palmetto
  •  

 

PLACES I LOVE TO CHRISTMAS SHOP! (New!  December 2020 content)

Not as New Openings and Movings but Places we Love!

  • Seminar Brewing has moved to Hwy 52 near 95
  • Town Hall
  • The Dispensary Rooftop Bar
  • Aldi has opened a second location and redone their original location!
  • SNIP has moved to Second Loop
  • Palmetto Pharmacy on Celebration (now on 76!)
  • Lidl a German Grocery
  • King Jefe Taco Bar: downtown (love it!)
  • H & M coming to Magnolia Mall (SCNow confirmed)
  • The Pharmacy
  • Mi Tierra has moved to their new location on Celebration (so nice!)
  • Bojangles is open near the end of Damon on Second Loop

Closings

  • Fiasco
  • Orange Leaf
  • 1031 Burger
  • Cast Iron Waffles
  • Struttin Turkey
  • Cruise the View
  • Applebees
  • Corona has a new name
  • Kmart
  • Opened:  Pee Dee Bicycle (downtown) (Sigh.) And its closed.
  • Clay Pot
  • Fox’s Pizza is back and I think it closed again?
  • Boxcar Market (Mercantile and Grocer downtown) (I am super excited about this one!!) (I saw yesterday it is open!  I need to check it out!) (I have shopped here many times, PLEASE support it!)
  • Old South Seafood and more (near SFHS)
  • Pita Pit
  • Browns BBQ has opened in Florence– has anyone tried it??  (Closed)
  • The Square Meal Market  (Closed)
  • Zoe’s Kitchen to open at 2100 West Evans, suite B. (June 2017:  OPEN) (2020 THANKS COVID!  Closed)
  • Local Motive Brewery (Closed)
  •  

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642 comments

  1. The building next to Bean Bar that was the Mail Room will be Buddy’s Burgers. They hope to open in July 2022. They will have burgers, made from fresh ground beef and fires cut fresh from potatoes. They will have beer and cocktails also. Plus Local Motive closed downtown but they are over there also as a tasting room with Taco’s Yeah food truck parked there.

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  7. Saw on Construction Journal that a new Hardees will be built. It had the zipcode as 29506, so I wonder if this will be somewhere on East Palmetto perhaps near Francis Marion? Or near 95 where they are building the Bucees?

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  9. Creekside on Irby had a job fair Tuesday so hiring and sign with Coming Soon. Local Motive behind Naturally Outdoors will be opening soon too.

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  11. I don’t know if it’s legitimate but there are currently a few job postings online for Costco. Don’t know how much I believe that but if anyone knows anything or can find out more information, please share! It would be nice to see Costco come to Florence.

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  13. I see the GameStop in the mall is closing. I wonder if Magnolia Mall will be able to revitalize and capture decent tenants (that survive) once the pandemic is over.

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  14. It looks like trees were torn down next to Delmae Elementary School on South Cashua. Is something new going to be built there?

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  17. Lulu’s Coffee moved into Dolce Vita’s store. Wonder if Dolce Vita is opening some other place or if they are just out of business.

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    • From facebook:

      Dolce Vita Café & More is feeling blessed.
      October 19 at 10:17 PM ·
      Seven years ago on May 16th, 2013 we at Dolce Vita held our 1st ever soft opening of Belgian Chocolates and Wines by the glass. This was an exciting time for Downtown Florence as we were there at the beginning of its revitalization. Led by our Master Chocolatiers, Joshua Antoine Keith and Marvin James, we held Chocolate and Wine tastings, hosted parties inside DV and live band events in our courtyard. We put a new face on downtown and created a necessary buzz, bringing tons of people to our space and inspiring other businesses to open in downtown Florence.
      With our partnership with Mark Palmer, we brought SWEETLEIGHS Cakes and Treats to downtown and with the leadership of Ranny Starnes we gave you amazing Coffee.
      So many lasting memories have been created over the last 7 years with birthday parties, anniversaries, baby showers, engagement parties, and even a wedding or 2!….And let us not forget the Sangria, those epic New Year’s Eve Parties and so many great Florence after Fives.
      2020 has been a challenging year for all of us and like so many restaurants we were forced to close our doors to the public in March and have remained so through this present time.
      However (!) as 1 door has closed we have open 2 new doors for our community by bringing Lula’s Coffee Co.to our space and bringing you Chocobella (Amazing Handmade Gelato and Belgian Chocolates) soon to open at 114 N. Dargan St.
      As we turn the page and begin this new exciting chapter we thank our leaders over the years; Antoine Keith, Marvin James, Andrea Frondorf, and Ranny Starnes and all of our employees and Most Importantly All of You who have followed us and supported us over the many years. We love you and will never forget you!

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  20. Soule closed but is apparently moving. Dolce Vita looks like they went out of business, too. Anyone know anything?

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    • AL, it looks like from the Dolce Vita Facebook page, they are just temporarily shut down because of the Covid situation.

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  22. I see land is being cleared on S. Irby St between Cardinal Tire and the pawn shop! Any word on what’s going there?

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  25. Noticed T-Mobile closed in the mall and of course the JCPenney is of those listed to close. Downtown it looks like Soule Cafe did not make it through this rough time. Has anyone heard of any plans for the old Kmart site to be redeveloped? There’s not much information online on the foundry commercial page.

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  28. It looks like the old Smoky Oaks on Irby is going to finally be something. The For Lease sign is gone and there is a big dumpster out front with a lot of stuff in it. Anyone hear anything?

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  29. I hope all are staying safe. Quiet since this all started. Guess no building. Hope the small businesses can all make it through. Please support them if you can. I know Bean Bar next to Naturally Outdoors was supposed to open on April 13th. Unfortunately they couldn’t but they are doing take out if anyone likes coffee or tea. When they can open they will have some food.

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  30. Local Motive Brewery has closed downtown. They will be opening just the brewery and a taproom behind Naturally Outdoors.

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  32. Last summer it was announced that a gas station/convenience store called Buc-EE’s was coming to Florence county, off of 327. I haven’t seen any sign of land clearing or building. Does anyone know if this is still in the works?

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    • It is not scheduled to start until later this year.
      They did clear the entire lot a few months back

      There are job postings on Buc-EE’s website, and the County Council just approved the tax incentive early this year.

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      • If you are familiar with the area, it will be in the field they just cleared in front of the end of Pocket Road. If you are traveling south bound on I95, it will be on your right directly across the interstate from Harley Davidson/Pilot

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  33. Things are getting stagnant here, LOL. I thought I would try to pump things up. Has anyone heard of anything new coming to Florence lately??

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    • I sure would like to see some new road construction people….tired of waving at the same crews on the same projects!! LOL!!

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  34. A recent article reported on SCNOW stated that Dillion County led the Pee Dee region in GDP growth from 2015-2018 at 10.33% while Florence grew at a rate of 7.9% over that three year period which is roughly a 2.6% annual increase which is pretty much in line with the state average. However, on a recent Post and Courier article it stated that Florence County’s GDP fell 24% in 2018 alone from $1.6 Billion to $1.2 Billion. If that is to be accurate that would be an alarming rate but with the growth we have seen in our area while it may not be “booming” there has at least been steady growth. I am wondering if anyone else has seen this and can either clarify or if there is an error in reporting somewhere.I would hope that any error would be corrected to not make Florence look bad.

    SCNow’s report: https://www.scnow.com/news/local/dillon-county-leads-pee-dee-in-gdp-growth/article_e6a8b9fa-3eb5-5079-9192-9e79cc1a3002.html

    Post & Courier: https://www.postandcourier.com/business/charleston-county-economy-takes-top-spot-in-sc-according-to/article_5ee3c660-2d8c-11ea-822d-ab528e3013bb.html

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  41. Big News for Downtown Florence,

    A New Hotel coming to downtown

    $65 Million future mixed-use development project on the 300 block of W. Evans Street to include condos, an office complex, and a new parking garage.

    Another 2020 project for Downtown to include the city’s renovation of the Carolina Theatre on S. Dargan to have hopes to use the theater as a multi-functional theater with tiered seating on the main floor and fixed seating in the balcony. They are envisioning concerts for up-and-coming artists and dinner theater performances and entertainment that will appeal to young adults.

    In 2020 we also have Francis Marion University’s transformation of the former post office to be an addition health science building.

    To be completed in 2019, the FMU Art Gallery, the Leaf Lounge Cigar Bar, and the Lost Cajun Seafood Restaurant. Along with a new downtown event in December called the Chocolate Crawl!

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  43. Revival Burger closing down on Oct 6th 2019, I think it’s going to be used by the stefanos folks for a catering kitchen

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  44. so it appears the oakdale country club (traces?) has closed it’s doors today… rumor is that is it being sold to a development for the land – possibly some relation to the rezoning in the area

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  48. Anyone know what is going in the mall between Barnes & Noble and Palmetto Moon where Payless used to be? They seem to be working and have a wall out in front. Also, has anyone heard of a Bonefish Grill coming to Florence?

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  49. Texas Based Gas Station, Buc-Ees is confirmed to be coming to I95 Exit 170 at Highway 327.

    Check Facebook Palmetto Commercial, and SCNOW

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  58. The place that went into the old Muscovy’s, I think it was Soul Cajun or something like that has closed. For lease sign back up.

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  60. Lots of tree clearing at Hwy 327 and I95

    Rumor is of a massive truck stop similar to Buc-Ees in Texas area. Also rumor of a shopping center to go along with it

    Anyone with details?

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    • I read in the paper that Francis Marion is going to build a new Ecology Lab and small Conference Center out that way. I wonder if that could be it.

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  61. Holt Bros BBQ is open now (2/18/19) in the old BBQ next to Zaxbys on Evans. The work on the building is top notch – it’s super nice. Has outdoor seating as well. I’d say it’s about on bar with Wholly Smokn’ price / quality wise – good portions – staff seems very competent and friendly.

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  62. saw this:

    On March 30th, 2019 I will be closing the Block and Vino operation in Florence. This has been a decision that hasn’t been easy for me. Over the past 11 years, I have enjoyed getting to know the people of Florence in a way I never would have with my other business. Being a part of the community and its outreach has been fun and its something I can’t put a value on right now. Being a small business owner in the food business isn’t always easy and I personally can’t give it the attention it needs. I have had the privilege of a great staff to work for me over the years and I owe them tremendously for being at the shop when I couldn’t. I truly love the Block and Vino concept but at this time this is the best decision for my family.

    The journey isn’t over and in some ways, it’s just beginning. We look forward to what the future holds in our next adventure in Hartsville. Since Fall of 2018, a new family dynamic has been forming between me and my sister. For all who may not know me personally may not know that I grew up in Hartsville and helped run our family food business and after 13 years I rekindled that burn and opened the Butcher Shop in 2008. Now 11 years later my sister Brandi has the same burning desire to get back in the food business and I couldn’t be more excited to work with her. So what’s next? Brent and Brandi’s Block & Vino to be located downtown Hartsville coming summer of 2019.

    For all who have purchased a gift card from the Block and Vino, you have until March 30th to redeem it in Florence. If you would like to wait until we get our operation up and going in Hartsville the gift card will still be valid. You have my word as long I am open and your gift card has the Block and Vino logo it will be valid.

    Thanks,
    Brent Tiller

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  67. Muscovy’s closed their doors Friday. Grapevine says the owner of Creek Rats raised the rent so high that Muscovy wasn’t going to pay it!

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  68. Bird’s Nest on Dargan (old Clay Pot site) opened last Wednesday. Stopped by after the play last Friday night. Kitchen wasn’t open and crowded but will go back.

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  69. Ok..the Old South on Irby that closed and was suppose to be something else now has a sign up under theirs that says “Coming Soon American Grill” Saw landscaping going on around there for the last couple weeks and sign just went up. Will see if this one makes it there.

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  71. Anyone know what’s going in on David McLeod in front of the mall between Burger King and I think it was IHOP? They cleared a big lot.

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    • Flossip…no way can I thank you enough for taking on this burden for those of us who faithfully follow it. I always hope it will grow and think it still will. Thank you tons for all you have done!

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  75. Drove down Dargan today and in the Bicycle Shop that closed there was sign up in the window The Loft Sports Bar and Grill. Also finally, the Bird’s Nest sign is up over the door of the Clay Pot.

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  76. Old South Seafood and more that closed on Irby has a sign on the building. Tin Tap Surf and Turf. Can’t tell if anything has been done besides the sign.

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  77. This isn’t a opening or closing but more a question—is anyone else on the City of Florence water system having trouble with muddy water?

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  81. Jazz is going into the old The Kitchen on Dargan. Took the paper off the windows and looks almost ready to open.

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  84. I was downtown this morning. The Kitchen on Dargan that closed there was work being done in there. Anyone know what it is going to be? There is also another store down from there that sold. Hopefully some good places will open.

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  85. Went to mall tonight and a White Barn by Bath and Body Works is opening

    I’m not sure if Bath and Body Works is moving to that location also, but it looks like it is moving and adding a White Barn by where American Eagle is,

    Construction started on Forever 21 by the Food Court beside Rue 21

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    • Sleep Number is coming to Florence indeed. Where Sleep Number will open its store in Florence remains unknown.

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  93. Little Caesar’s is coming to the plaza where Fitness World and Food Lion is on West Palmetto.

    *not sayin that Little Caesar’s is any good though.

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  94. I passed by and saw that a new restaurant is in the old “struttin Turkey” . Has anyone tried it, how is it?

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  98. BI-LO #5550, Independence Center, 500 Pamplico Highway, Florence, South Carolina 29505-6012, was not among the ninety-four BI-LO, Fresco y Más, Harvey’s Supermarket, and Winn-Dixie stores Southeastern Grocers announced to close Thursday, 15 March, in its restructuring announcement. (https://www.segrocers.com/restructuring)

    I am hearing more stores will be announced to close in August.

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      • Food Lion is acquiring four BI-LO stores in South Carolina:

        * BI-LO #5104, Surfside Beach Commons, 1610 Highway 17 South, Surfside Beach, South Carolina 29575-6037

        * BI-LO #5116, Plantation Point Plaza, 1241 38th Avenue North, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29577-1313

        * BI-LO #5218, Spring Valley Commons, 9003 Two Notch Road, Columbia, South Carolina 29223-5800

        * BI-LO #5550, Independence Center, 500 Pamplico Highway, Florence, South Carolina 29605-6012

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      • I assume Food Lion will use BI-LO #5550 to replace Food Lion #618, South Florence Market, 2600 South Irby Street, Florence, South Carolina 29505-3432. If BI-LO #5550 is in good condition without much aesthetic work required, Food Lion should open soon. The Independence Center store could help Food Lion open its first pharmacy in Florence.

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      • I thought this location may replace the old Food Lion on Second Loop but this article says there are no plans to close any nearby Food Lions.

        “There are no plans to close any Food Lions in Florence, Smith said, including two near the Pamplico Highway location. One store is two miles south at 2600 S. Irby St., and another one is 3.6 miles west at 1307 Second Loop Road.”

        Source: http://www.scnow.com/news/business/local/article_923ef520-4cbf-11e8-810e-0b8d330b584d.html

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      • I do not see Food Lion’s need for an additional store in Florence via BI-LO #5550 unless it is replacing an existing store.

        I wonder if Publx Super Markets pursued acquiring BI-LO #5550, or has another location under consideration nearby.

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    • Bilo 550 Pamplico hwy will close sometime in June, they have stopped receiving grocery and will start closing sale on May 2.

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      • Food Lion sucks indeed. It is great for extra high prices, lack of necessities in food and pharmacy, bad customer service, and bad quality products.

        BI-LO has declined like Food Lion. I doubt it will be missed.

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      • I agree don’t like Food Lion and we don’t need another one! I’ll miss them cause Harris Teeter is too expensive besides there sales and not crazy about the pig. Choices are getting less and less.

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      • There are becoming fewer supermarkets indeed. I do not known when Publix may come. I would not mind seeing Ingle’s if it expands across South Carolina.

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  101. I have checked your website and i’ve found some duplicate content, that’s why you don’t rank high in google’s search results, but there is a tool that can help you to create 100% unique content, search for: boorfe’s tips unlimited content

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  105. Toys R Us is closing,
    What would you like to see in that spot?

    Marshall’s? Nordstrom Rack? Michaels?

    Also, theater wanting to come to downtown Florence with bar, saw an article I Facebook from WMBF but cannot find it anymore

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  114. Before this all goes away, I want to thank you Flossip for your efforts and contribution to our community by creating this site. Many of us have enjoyed it for a long time and, though I hate to see you give it up, I certainly understand your need to do it. You’ve kept it going a lot longer than I think I could have done it! Anyway, thanks again and best wishes to you in 2018 and the years to come!

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  115. Learned last night that Subway and a Miyabi Express will also be going in the building on Beltline along with Dairy Queen and Steak n Shake.

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  118. Flossip just posted on FB that this page is going away. If anyone starts another like this I would love to know except I’m not sure how. I’ll miss this page and wish her much happiness and health with whatever she does in the future.

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  120. What’s going on with The Dispensary? They closed for a weekend before Thanksgiving for “repairs”–but never reopened. The facebook page isn’t active, either. I think they’ve gone the way of Fiasco. Anyone know anything?

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  129. Ok any news what’s going to be on Irby? From Green Acres across the highway to where the first house is being totally cleared all the way over to John Paul Jones Road. It’s a huge lot.

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  130. Ok any news what’s going to be on Irby? From Green Acres to where the first house is being totally cleared all the way over to John Paul Jones Road. It’s a huge lot.

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  135. Anybody know what happened to the Kitchen on Dargan? Apparently it closed suddenly. What’s the story?

    Not sure what will happen to the Indian restaurant that was there on Friday and Saturday. Too bad. Both places were great.

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    • What? I was just there this past week and the guy that runs it was talking as if there was nothing about to happen. Like he commented that I hadn’t been in a while and he hoped I would be coming back more. Weird. And a shame…good food.

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      • A friend of mine who knows the owner just posted that they closed their door at 4:00 today for good. I will be seeing her tomorrow night and asked what happened.

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      • Interesting. Wonder what’s behind all these small restaurants not making it downtown? Fiasco’s, the Kitchen, 1031, Clay Pot, the Thai restaurant….is there a common denominator? Just a thought.

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      • Clay Pot closed because the owners wanted to retire. They have sold the building, but I don’t know who they sold it to, or what will be in there next.

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      • Fiasco building was going to be a pizza place before Fiasco, due to health issues the owner backed out, so there was a building with pizza ovens. Easy choice to make it an Italian place. Their pizza was pretty good. Their Italian really sucked.

        1031 had the worst service in Florence.

        Clay Pot had a lot of potential, but the owners took random days and it was open at super wonky hours sometimes. Dolce Vita is a better version of it now at least.

        I enjoy the Thai Restaurant, but I am betting that since they’ve been down there for so long, the price of operating in downtown has risen significantly and the margins are meeting.

        The Kitchen was open a few months too early in my opinion. It was open a long time ago on the bad strip of downtown. I guess they just didn’t make it over the financial hump.

        I think some of the closings have to do with the culture here in Florence as well. There’s a pretty divisive line in the culture that would actively seek a $15 plate of foreign influenced cuisine, and people that would rather take their family to CiCis for all you can eat low cost low end food. The people that would go to downtown need to be marketed to a bit more. We brought some people down there just this last weekend and they had no idea that we even had most of this stuff downtown.

        Lastly, Town Hall is way too dang expensive, and my food was not good. If they don’t reform they may be next.

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      • Report back! I’m more upset about the Indian place than the kitchen proper, to be honest.

        Not sure the Thai restaurant is actually closing. Heard that a while back–but they seem to still be open. As far as Fiasco, heard there were some management issues or something, which is a shame considering I liked Fiasco better than Townhall.

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      • In my experience the downtown restaurants usually lack good servers and service, the food is usually subpar, and it’s overpriced.

        The only restaurant that actually feels like a real restaurant is King Hefe and I’d bet that’s because they have lots of restaurant experience.

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    • What a shame. Great food and very reasonable prices. We just met the family doing the Indian on the weekends. They asked what we’d like to see on the menu. I don’t think they saw this coming. Hope they find another place.

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  136. Ok, the Smokey Oaks sign on the building is gone and the sale sign is gone too.
    Anyone know what’s going on there? They going to tear it down or did someone buy it?

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    • I hope they tear it down. Seems to have had bad mojo. lol
      Can’t wait to find out what it will be. That is such a good location for a restaurant with all the parking and everything; just hope it’s a good one….if it’s a restaurant at all.

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  139. The way Burlington is set uo, if Homegoods and Five Below are sharing the old Sears spot, I’m not sure how or if you would be able to get into this stores unless they are only accessible outside (like Florence Mall) with no interior entrance.

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    • I’ve messaged the mall on Facebook and have been told by them that Homegoods and Five Below will only be accessed from the outside and will not have interior entrances into the mall

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  142. Does anyone have any information on a possible Pep Boys coming to Florence? I have seen a few postings on Indeed with a delivery driver, and now a Parts counterperson.

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  149. Seminar Brewing announced they are shooting for an August 26th opening date. Also Alan Cooke from Rebel Pie is going to open his 2nd place called Kanza inside the brewery. Other food than pizza.

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  153. What happened to the bar on 2nd Tavern on the loop. I see they are cleaning up that plaza. Does anyone know what the plans are for that area.

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  154. Does anyone know anything about Brown’s Smokehouse Barbecue that is coming to the old Angelo’s Seafood Restaurant? Is it the same Brown’s that is in Kingstree? I haven’t eaten there in a while, but I remember it being very good.

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    • Supposedly it’s the daughter of the people who own Browns but I will tell you that I went and 7 people who were there and already eating told me it wasn’t worth the money and to leave before I ever went through the line. I listened and left. One thing I can attest to is the fact that you couldn’t pay when you went through the buffet line; you could only pay after you ate. The problem with that was you had to go back through the buffet line to pay so that means you have to wait in line all over again with people waiting to get food. Made no sense.

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      • I ate there last weekend and the set up to make your plate does stink. The food is ok but I agree with the price for it being a bit high. Not a place that is going to be my me regular.

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  156. this morning i heard that costo is coming out near skateland by west florence

    also when they expand chick-fil-a on the WF side of town they will add a new restaurant between Burger King and the new CFA building.

    and lastly apparently cookout is considering a location on the west side of town

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    • Not saying what you heard is weong, but is there enough room by skatepark for a Costco? I’ve heard for years that the Costco was rumored to go in the field at Ebenezer and Hoffmeyer

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    • It doesn’t seem possible for there to be another business between CFA and BK; not enough room. A CFA employee told me awhile back that the BK would be closed and the new CFA/parking lot will take up some of that space.

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  157. From PREIT’s Website

    At Magnolia Mall, the former department store space is fully leased. PREIT has executed leases for the 28,500 square foot remainder portion of the former Sears location – Five Below and an off-price home furnishings and accessories retailer, both first-to-region retailers and leaders in the value category, to join Burlington in the former Sears box. The 20,000 square foot off-price home furnishings retailer and the 8,500-square foot Five Below will open in Spring 2018. As the value retail segment continues to grow, these additions strengthen PREIT’s strategy to attract in-demand retailers and drive foot traffic at its properties. Also at Magnolia Mall, popular fast fashion retailer H&M will open a 20,000-square foot store in Fall 2017, illustrating PREIT’s continued commitment to diversifying its tenant base and bringing new-to-market options for its customers. Following this remerchandising initiative, Magnolia Mall occupancy is forecast to exceed 99.0%.

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  158. Pee Dee Bicycle is now open on Dargen Street, a couple doors down from Local Motive Brewery. Some community rides in conjunction with Local Motive.
    Downtown is coming right along!

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    • I would like to say Publix. I do not know if the site meets Publix’s site selection team’s median income criteria.

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      • Regarding the bigger HT. That is a very real possibility. It would be one of the new super flags. 80k sq ft. Almost double the size of the current one.

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      • I remember sticking change in a horse
        that sat out front back in the late 60’s.
        It’s where we went for toys back then.

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      • Plans for a larger Harris Teeter supermarket would be dependent on The Kroger Company’s plans for new store construction in 2018 and beyond. Several new Kroger Marketplace hypermarket stores in Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia were cancelled recently.

        Publix’s arrival would cause Harris Teeter to evaluate its options.

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    • Denny’s recently reopened its Greenville restaurant under corporate control and after a remodel. It could be possible for more corporate-operated locations to open across South Carolina.

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  166. Just saw tonight that Corona Mexican restaurant is no more. I forget what the name is now but it’s still a Mexican restaurant so bit could be just a name change.

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  169. Just heard that they are going to tear down the old Winn-Dixie and put in a Publix. And also put in a Whole Foods on Celebration. Can anyone verify?

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      • Was posted on our HOA’s message board. Their source was speaking to someone who was in town to help with Bi-Lo’s closing.

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    • Winn-Dixie had two stores in Florence when it exited in 2004:
      Winn-Dixie #2115, 124 South Cashua Drive, Florence, South Carolina 29501-4002
      Winn-Dixie #2116, Freedom Square, 1611 South Irby Street, Florence, South Carolina 29505-3411

      I have heard Harris Teeter #124, Cashua Place, 1930 West Palmetto Street Florence, South Carolina 29501-4051, may undergo an update soon to add a pharmacy and a Starbucks kiosk.

      I could see Publix opening its first Florence store at the former Kroger/Winn-Dixie #2115 site.

      BI-LO #5550’s lease should be up in 2019. Publix could acquire that store, update the store to its standards, and reopen it as its second Florence store.

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      • The Kroger/Winn-Dixie #2115 site fails to meet the Publix Site Selection Team’s median income criteria.

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      • Why bother locating at Freedom Square when residential growth is southeast along Pamplico Highway?

        If Harris Teeter #124 can do well in its trade area, it should not be a problem for Publix to locate in that trade area also. Publix could enter the trade area if it opens a store at the Grove at Ebenezer.

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      • Harris Teeter is located farther south excluding more of census tract 9 (median income $18k) from its trade area and adding more of census tract 13 (median income $45k). There is also the question of if the population in the area is large enough to support an additional store. I agree there is little reason for Publix to locate at Freedom Square. I concur with either waiting for the Bi-Lo lease to expire or The Grove at Ebenezer.

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      • I am yet to see a site plan for the retail component of the Grove at Ebenezer. There are many residences in the southwest quadrant of Interstate 95 and Interstate 20.

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  170. So I heard we are getting a boardgame store near the Julia cinema on Irby. I know we’ve had a few in the past – hope this works well for them and that we can support it, firefly in cola is alot of fun

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  174. Ok, last night Flossip posted on FB that Steak & Shake, Jersey Mikes will also be where Dairy Queen and Good Will will be in front of Walmart.

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  175. Has anybody ever heard what the other 2 stores are supposed to be at Magnolia Mall along with Burlington? I think an Escape Room place is supposed to be there too so I wonder if that’s one of the two. Not exactly a ‘store’ but we don’t know anything for sure do we?

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  177. Heard today that a Steak and Shake and a Jersey Boys are also going in with the Goodwill and Dairy Queen grouping. Anyone else hear that? Don’t know if there’s any truth to it or not.

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  179. Flossip posted on fb that the BiLo on palmetto is closing. Someone said the one on pamplico is too but they haven’t announced it yet. 😦

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    • BI-LO #5550, Independence Center, 500 Pamplico Highway, Florence, South Carolina 29505-6012, may be in the process of closing. It closed some service departments, including pharmacy, in 2016.

      With BI-LO #5593, 2640 West Palmetto Street, Florence, South Carolina 29501-5928, closing, I would not be surprised to see BI-LO exit Florence County.

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      • BI-LO #5550 opened in 1999. If it is on a twenty-year lease, the lease should expire in 2019.

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  181. Cafe Soule is now open next to King Jefe.

    Just a nice little coffee shop. Spent a nice relaxing evening here.

    They open at 7am, and they stay open until 11 which is nice.

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  182. And…does anyone know what is being built beside the new fire station on Hoffmeyer at the entrance to Lucy Davis School?

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    • Twin Church Road is being re-aligned to form a ‘+’ intersection with the soccer complex entrance. The traffic light will be moved to the new intersection.

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  189. Tried the Los Amigos restaurant on glad I seen the comments on here. It was really great food. Would recommend everyone who likes authentic food give it a

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    • It a try and the flan is the best in town. Prices were great for the amount of food you get. I will be back the tortias where handmade awesome. 🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮

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  195. See a job posting for something called Teriyaki Madness. Seems to be a restaurant. Anybody heard anything about this one?

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    • I think the BP on Ebenezer across from Ebenezer Park is adding on a little hibachi takeout place saw a sign for it a couple of days ago.

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  196. The new taqueria, Los Amigos on second loop is now open (beside heat street) and the food is amazing. If you’re looking for authentic Mexican you should definitely try them!

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    • Came here to ask this as well.

      Also noticed Ruby’s Corner has had a lot of work going on. Probably just dressing it up real nice for a potential buyer though.

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  199. With all the new hotels and growth of the civic center and growth on the west side, I hope Magnolia Mall could renovate and restore itself to keep up.

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  200. What would you like to see downtown?

    I would love to see the red wolves move to downtown with a nice stadium!

    A general store would be nice and it also would be great if they could make a dine in movie theater that serves full meals while you watch your film.

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  202. Seminar Brewing:

    We’ve been hinting for a while, and now we’re ready to make our announcement official: We’re moving to 551 W Lucas St, also known as the old Young’s Pecan Building! With over 13,000 square feet of space, we will expand our brewing space and tasting room to include food service, ample seating, games and a dog-friendly, outdoor beer garden!

    Beginning Sunday, March 5th, we will begin the process by shutting down our location next to Red Bone Alley in order to pack up. This means the Tasting Room will be closed after Saturday – so get your growler fills now! Our goal is to resume brewing in late March and open the Tasting Room by early May. As with any construction project, timelines change, so keep your eyes on our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates.

    I think this is great…filling up an empty place and maybe it will help clean up that part of Florence!

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  204. Tubbs is opening their new place soon. King Jepe Taco Bar. It is at 134 S. Irby. They were advertising for help on FB.

    Nice to see places are expanding onto Irby near downtown to clean that area up too!

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  205. Did Sweet change owners? Or are under new management? I ask because I didn’t recognize anyone last time I went in and the place was full of teens and the menu was different. The old (current?) owners were great.

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    • In the Morning News today also says 2 other unnamed stores with share the space with Burlington. Suppose to open by the end of 2017.

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  207. This isn’t rumors post, but what is up with the apartments on 2nd loop with the blue tarps? They have been that way since the hurricane and it looks awful! I know this complex has always look unkempt, but it’s truly an eyesore.

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  208. Work has started in the grassy area between West Florence High and Walmart. This will be the Goodwill Store and Dairy Queen along with a few other retail spots.

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    • Nope but about time! I keep saying that is prime, why doesn’t someone do something. It will most likely be another gas station?

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  212. I think it would be great for an Irish Pub to go into 1031 American Grill or Mia Terra both empty places. We would love to have one in Florence. We go to Flynn’s anytime in MB.

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  213. Struttin Turkey on Irby has a For Sale sign up.

    Also, anyone know what’s going onto the lot next to the West Oil Gas Station on 2nd loop and Irby. Last week I saw a bunch of guys out there and today there was a Sold sign up on the lot.

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    • Not surprised about Struttin Turkey. The quality of their food and their service is awful. More surprised they’ve lasted this long.

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  214. This isn’t an opening or closing post so much as it is a question—has anyone else but me been approached by panhandlers in local shopping areas? It’s happened to me 3x at Target and about that many times at the Florence Mall.

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      • I’ve seen security at the Target and Magnolia Mall but I can’t ever say that I’ve seen security at the Florence Mall. The cops need to step up their patrols in that area for sure. A few days after I posted this, I was in the middle of Magnolia Mall and watched about 5 cops take down a suspect! They need to get a handle on this stuff now before it gets any worse!

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  215. Wouldn’t it be nice for Florence to have a really nice park? One that was well maintained, safe, large, full of flowers and nicely landscaped. With benches and areas where one could spread out a blanket and have lunch. One where special events could be held from time to time, maybe even small craft fairs. A place where one might go to play a little guitar? One like you might see in a bigger city. Am I the only one who would like to see this happen?

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    • Yes, how about some sort of “central park” located in the center of the city with flowers and shrub sculptures, plenty of benches and open areas, a gazeebo or two, splash pad for kids (and kids at heart) to cool off on hot days. A place where you can have free concerts in the park to bring people together. I would love to see this happen.

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  217. In response to Taylor from post on 11/26, I asked the manager at the IGA today what was going to be built on that corner and he said nothing. Said they only cleared the land because they had the opportunity to get it done cheaply. I will say, however, that I have just the slightest feeling he could have been deliberately evasive. Guess we’ll see sooner or later.

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    • Do we really need another discount grocery store in Florence? We’ve got 2 walmarts and a neighborhood Walmart. Two Aldis. Doesn’t seem like it would be a good fit.

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    • Goodwill is confirmed, per McCrory Bidding Website, and Dairy Queen as well per their website. When it starts though I am not sure.

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  220. http://eprretailnews.com/2017/01/05/preit-announces-its-proactive-efforts-to-replace-sears-stores-in-capital-city-magnolia-and-woodland-malls-783635456/

    Sears is closing, and leasing documents are being finalized for its replacement. I’ve noted on the last website (old rumor thread) that it had leaked on the site plan and leasing documents through PREITS website that Dillard’s is coming where Sears is. The Site Plan no longer states this but I would count on a Dillards going where Sears is..

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    • The land on the corner of Evans and Palmetto beside Jiffy Lube has a sold sign on it now. I believe that is where it is supposed to be built.

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  224. Charlie Grainger’s has shown Florence,SC as a future location on their web page for well over a year now. Does anyone know if and/or when this is supposed to happen?

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  228. Anyone have more info on the progress of the “Grove at Ebenezer”?

    I see land is being cleared just down from the Jiffy Lube looks like they might be getting ready to cut a new road.

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  229. so I hear the gas station at FMU intersection is being torn down and either a waffle house or chickfila is being built out there ? anyone heard of this?

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  233. City of Florence building a three-court basketball gym next to the Barnes Street Activity Center.

    also parking deck is open now.

    I’m hopefully we’ll eventually replace the memorial stadium with something closer to downtown – if we could get the highschool games in walking distance of the businesses down there it would be very helpful

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    • I don’t understand this draw for so many brewery’s. I find it a little disheartening that rather than trying to build a downtown we can be proud of there is instead a push for more alcohol. Am I missing something?

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      • Like it or not, breweries and the like draw a young, professional crowd, and that is what it takes to generate excitement about downtown, at least from the onset. I think that once downtown takes off, you will see more diverse offerings there.

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  236. Tubbs just posted they are working on a new venture downtown – original location stays- they say new one will be “affordable, fun and delicious”

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    • Gezz..just happened upon this page thankfully! Really missed the old page. Welcome Back Flossip!!!

      I think I heard that the place downtown was going to have all types of taco’s?

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  238. See some land being cleared and developed across from Goosie Ganders on Palmetto. Anyone know anything about this? There’s also an ad on indeed.com for a position with a ‘casual dining’ restaurant in Florence. Something new maybe?

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  239. Good news for Blizzard lovers, according to their web site, Dairy Queen is coming soon, across from West Florence High, beside Walmart.

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  240. Driving by McAllisters Deli today I noticed an ‘AVAILABLE’ sign in front window yet there was also a sign that said ‘NOW HIRING’. Wonder if they may be leaving?

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    • Stopped by there for the free water at Academy Sports today.

      One of their employees said that a nail salon is going in, but didn’t know anything other than that.

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  243. Does anyone know if Sweet (the cupcake store) is still owned by the same people? There seemed to be expansion into Columbia, then several places in Florence and now it is also a café. Just wondering if the original owners are still operating the business. Thanks.

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  247. last i heard the chickfila near the mall was getting a remodel – anyone know news of that? same location or nearby I assume .. i don’t see any work in that diection

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    • This will take some time to complete. The access road behind Magnolia Mall’s Chick-fil-a will be closed by SCDOT, transferred to the City of Florence, then transferred to the REIT that holds Magnolia Mall. This will give Chick-fil-a the additional land required to build one similar to the south Irby St. location.

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  251. They are starting construction on something across from GE and next to the Holiday Inn Express. The soccer complex off of 76 and 95 is also making progress. Really glad to see this back! Felt lost without it.

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  258. There is a specialty yarn shop in town! First one in over 20 years! Ole South Yarnworks is located at 1434-c South Floyd Circle near Time Warner Cable.

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