Olde Wine Store Closed, Haruko's to Close May 26

Two more Mercer Island Town Center retail businesses are closing their doors in May.

The is reporting that is closing after 23 years in business. Local residents Isao and Yasuko Wakayama moved to the community and opened the restaurant in 1989 and relocated their business five years ago to its present location near the Rite Aid. It was previously located at the site now occupied by Aljoya.

According to the article, the business was sold because the Wakayamas were not offered a shorter lease. The business was sold and the restaurant will be renamed Phobulous and run as a Vietnamese restaurant and bubble tea house, reported the newspaper. The last day of business is Saturday, May 26.

A few blocks away on SE 28th Street, Town Center newcomer closed several weeks ago, according to property management company Wallace Properties of Bellevue. Owners Ed and Flora Brier opened the store in late 2010 as a boutique wine shop offering wines by the glass and evening entertainment and live music. posted the following statement on Patch in a "Thank You" announcement on Monday:

"Thank you Mercer Island for the opportunity you gave to Flora and myself for having a chance with the Olde Wine Store.

When a business closes, the fault lies directly on the owners,us. There are two sides to every issue, we are greatful to have had a chance to try.

Thank you for all your support,God Bless

Ed and Flora Brier"

Wallace Properties are currently listing the 1,760 square-foot retail space for rent at $29 per square foot.