A Fish House Opens, a Bank Closes and Whole Foods Shows Signs of Life

From a new fish restaurant opening to the closure of a local bank, there is quite a bit of business happenings taking place throughout Laguna Niguel.

Something Is Fishy

Now open at the corner of Alicia Parkway and Pacific Island is a new fish house called Spike's Fish House. Partner Tim Aspel said he decided on a second location in Laguna Niguel at 27020 Alicia Pkwy. for a few reasons.

"Laguna Niguel is a great area that combines a great mix of residence and businesses. Additionally, I previously operated the PastaBravo which had been there for 15 years. I believe the community is better served with fresh, healthy seafood."

He said he had been working on the transition for more than nine months but since he was already operating in the space, construction only took one month. Aspel has a second Spike's location in Rancho Santa Margarita that has been opened for one year.

Foodies may enjoy fresh fish, simply grilled in an open display kitchen at what Aspel described as "reasonable prices, which start at $2.95 for a taco to mostly under $10 for a plate."

"Spike's is a small, energetic restaurant without the frills allowing us to put all the money focus into the food," he said.

In terms of opening in a tough economy Aspel said, "The timing is perfect because Spike's allows customers to enjoy and afford fresh fish once again. In this economy, nobody can afford to pay $25-30 for a plate of fish."

Signs of Life at Whole Foods

Spotted a week ago and confirmed by the city's Community Development Department's Senior Planner, John Morgan, there was movement at the space that will be home to a new Whole Foods Market. A group of individuals were seen congregating inside the entrance of the front door and looking around the what was once the former Tall Mouse craft store. Why is this news? For more than a year there has been no activity other than a suddenly appearing on the front facade a few months ago. Morgan said, "I spoke with the project architect earlier in the week and he has indicated they are hopeful to start interior demo next week."

Bank Closing

Banamex USA, a division of CitiBank, has closed its doors at 28121 Crown Valley Pkwy. Moving crews were removing ATMs as well as the bank's signage last week and the space is now vacant.

For business news, tips, and other information regarding openings or closings, please send email to Debbie.Sklar@patch.com