the venerable wine bar in the 12South neighborhood, plans to close in a few weeks due to lease issues as a large apartment and retail development is poised to go up on the same block.
Christy Shuff, who co-owns Rumours with managing partner Jenn McCarthy, says that ever since word got out about the wine bar closing (via local blogger Kim Green and Twitter) she's been deluged with calls from customers and neighbors.
"We've been here for a decade in 12South," Shuff says. "You can't imagine all the people calling and offering their support."
She adds, "We're just focusing on how Jenn and I can make the most of the next six weeks and move to an appropriate new location to continue to serve our patrons."
Shuff and McCarthy are looking at several possible new locations. The goal will be to keep as much continuity as possible with the original. "We want to keep it a small and friendly environment," Shuff says, adding with a laugh that she did promise chef Jo Ellen Brown a bigger kitchen.
Shuff says that while she still has four-and-a-half years left on the lease for the little house at 2304 12th Ave. S. and the cottage next door, which she sublets to Blackbird Tattoo and Gallery, she reluctantly agreed to a buyout from the landlord. She declined to give details, but it is believed the property is being eyed for parking for a mixed-use development from H.G. Hill and Southeast Venture that is going in next door at 2310 12th Ave. S.
