The beloved iHop location that has served countless pancakes and breakfasts is set to undergo a major transformation.
Soon, it will reopen its doors as a Trader Joe's, offering a fresh array of supermarket staples and unique products.
IHOP Closes, Plans Big Comeback with New Development
A handwritten notice on the door of the IHOP in Quincy Center has informed customers that the location is now permanently closed. The Patriot Ledger stated that the sign suggests visiting nearby branches in Braintree and Brockton for their pancake fix.
However, pancake enthusiasts can rest easy, as a city official mentioned that IHOP is not leaving the neighborhood. The restaurant is set to make a comeback across the street at 181-191 Parkingway, near Petco, backed by a $1.2 million contribution from the city.
Meanwhile, the former IHOP site is slated for significant redevelopment. Plans from Atlantic Development are in place to demolish the building and construct a new complex that will include a Trader Joe's store, a six-story residential building with 300 units, and a parking garage.
Chris Walker, chief of staff to Mayor Thomas Koch, explained that renovations are needed at the currently vacant property at 181-191 Parkingway before it can host the restaurant.
Last November, the city acquired the property at 115 Parkingway through eminent domain, compensating the owner, LBC Boston, with $9.45 million. LBC Boston, which owns the Nova Quincy apartment complex and other central city properties, will again serve as IHOP's landlord.
Additionally, IHOP had to resolve a legal dispute over water damage responsibilities with LBC Boston's principals, Adrien Shapiro and Alex Matov, which was settled out of court last year.
After the city's property acquisition, which terminated IHOP's ongoing lease, Quincy agreed to pay an extra $1.2 million to help with the restaurant's relocation costs, ensuring the new site is suitable for reopening.
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Trader Joe's Expands with 26 New Stores Nationwide
According to The U.S. Sun, Trader Joe's is set to open 26 new stores, exciting its dedicated fans nationwide. The California-based grocery chain, known for its unique products and exceptional customer service, currently operates 547 stores from coast to coast.
A fan account on Instagram shared a map detailing the locations of the upcoming stores, generating buzz among shoppers eager for more access to the brand.
With these new additions, Trader Joe's continues solidifying its position as the ninth-largest grocery chain in the United States by store count.
The specific dates for opening the new IHOP and Trader Joe's locations have not yet been confirmed. Despite the uncertainty, fans of both brands have taken to social media to express their enthusiasm about the upcoming changes.
Users share positive reactions on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit. One user remarked that the IHOP in Quincy is set to be "reborn" in a nearby location, while another expressed excitement about the development. Initially disappointed by IHOP's closure, a different user acknowledged that the change was beneficial.
Residents also welcomed the additional benefits of the developments, such as increased housing options and more grocery shopping choices, highlighting the positive impact on the community.
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