Local Landmark Gutted to Make Way for Two New Restaurants

, known around the neighborhood by locals for its hearty meals and mellow music, has bitten the dust—literally.

While Laguna Niguel Patch reported in June that the family-owned restaurant located in the Plaza de La Paz shopping center closed its doors, its fate was further sealed last week.

The 6,500 square-foot Cedar Creek that had served upscale meals to diners since 2008 was gutted to make way for two new restaurants, said Gerry Flanigan, vice president of real estate with the Horowitz Group, which owns the center.

The space was too big for one business, Flanigan said, “We've had two restaurants in there, and they just couldn't make it, I don't think many could.”

Prior to Cedar Creek Inn, the space was occupied by Scott’s Seafood, which still has a location in Costa Mesa near South Coast Plaza.

The Horowitz Group has received letters of intent for both spaces, which means the future tenants have agreed to rent the space, Flanigan said.

He said after renovations and build-outs, hopefully both new businesses will be open in January 2012.

In addition to dismantling Cedar Creek Inn, Flanigan said was also gutted. The 5,200 square-foot spa went out of business in October.

“We basically took it back to a shell and turned it into one big square. We have a letter of intent for a retail business,” he said. “It will not be personal service or a food. Since we put in Converge Salon, we felt there was no need for another personal service business.”

Flanigan said the new business that will take over Euro Day Spa will be some time in early 2012.

“It has 40 other stores and this will be its first entry into Southern California,” Flanigan said.

Plaza de La Paz is also home to , , and numerous restaurants including the .