The last days of Timbuktu

Photos by Stacie Joy

As we first reported on Dec. 20, Timbuktu, the Moroccan specialty shop at 45 Second Ave. between Second Street and Third Street, was closing in the weeks ahead. 

The shop is nearly empty now... owner and East Village resident Del Blaoui said that they only have a few days or a week left and he's looking to sell his showcases and tables ...

According to Blaoui, the new landlords, who took over in the spring of 2021, decided to terminate the shop's lease. 

Blaoui has been in the wholesale business for four decades and has been in this location for 20 years.

Timbuktu is usually open 1-8 p.m. Phone: (212) 473-4955.  

Moroccan specialty shop Timbuktu being forced out after 20 years on 2nd Avenue

Photos and reporting by Stacie Joy

Sad news here... Timbuktu, the Moroccan specialty shop at 45 Second Ave. between Second Street and Third Street, is closing soon.

Owner Del Blaoui seen here with his daughter and co-worker, Yasmin Blaoui, confirmed the news after we heard about the pending closure from several readers.

According to Del, the new landlords, who took over in the spring of 2021, decided to terminate the shop's lease effective at the end of the month. He learned about the decision via a certified letter.

He said he hopes to have a few more months to liquidate the merchandise. Del has been in the wholesale business for four decades and has been in this location for 20 years.

For now, shoppers can find items with sale prices between 50 and 70%. 

Here's a look inside the cozy store...

Moving forward, Del, who lives in the East Village, said he'd like to stay in the neighborhood if Timbuktu can find a new space.

Timbuktu is open daily from 1-8 p.m. Phone: (212) 473-4955.