A longtime East Village destination for Japanese antiques is closing

EVG reader photos

Another distinctive East Village retailer is preparing to close.

Makari Japanese Antiques and Fine Art, at 97 Third Ave. between 12th Street and 13th Street, is expected to shut down by the end of June after 17 years in the neighborhood. 

In a message to customers, the shop's owners wrote: "It has been around 17 years since we opened Makari in the East Village, where we wanted to share the beauty and depth of Japanese antiques and fine arts. After many wonderful years, we have made the difficult decision to close our store. We are incredibly grateful for your support, loyalty, and love over the years. It has truly meant the world to us to share the things we love with all of you." 

The shop specializes in Japanese antiques, contemporary art, crafts and tableware. We're told the owner is planning to return to Japan. 

Ahead of the closure, Makari is offering 50% off all merchandise in the store. 

We're sorry to see Makari go, especially businesses that aren't devoted to food, beverage or nightlife.

Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, noon to 5:30 p.m.

Pardon My French will close after dinner service on Saturday

Photos and reporting by Stacie Joy

Pardon My French on Avenue B is closing after a decade-plus in the neighborhood. 

Staffers at the Parisian-style bistro at 103 Avenue B, between Sixth Street and Seventh Street, told EVG that owner Antonin Brune informed them a few days ago that service would end after Saturday's dinner. No reason for an official closing was cited. 

The restaurant's Instagram account posted the news this afternoon, stating in part:

A heartfelt thanks to our team, friends, regulars, and all who walked through our doors. This community gave this restaurant its heart. Your support meant more than we can put into words.

Pardon My French opened in March 2015, taking over the longtime home of the bistro Casimir. 

The restaurant includes a front bar area, dining space, a private dining room next door and backyard seating.

Rosa Deli & Grocery has closed on Avenue D

Photo and reporting by Stacie Joy 

A popular decades-spanning family-owned business on Avenue D has closed. 

Several readers told us that Rosa Deli & Grocery shut down over the weekend on the northwest corner of Avenue D and Sixth Street. 

The shop was known for its busy grill counter ... and as one of the increasingly rare places where you could still get an egg-and-cheese on a bagel and a coffee for about $6. 

A neighborhood resident told us the rent increased, and owner Juan could no longer afford the space.

"Nice guy, been here forever," the neighbor said. "Just closed up. Been like that for three days now."