[B]Ski’s
Asia Cafe wasn't the only Franklin Street staple that closed recently. [B]Ski's also shut down within the last month.
Some UNC students are going to miss going the popular restaurant.
“It’s sad that [B]Ski’s is closing. I thought their food was pretty good quality, and I remember it being affordable,” UNC student Natalie Perez said.
National Restaurant Properties also handled this sale. [B]Ski's, known for its wraps, changed ownership in April 2017.
Curry Point Express
Yet another business on Franklin Street has closed its doors.
Asia Cafe provided relief for anyone who needed some quick Chinese takeout, but Chapel Hill residents may have noticed that a new sign occupies the storefront window.
The owners of Curry Point Express, an Indian fast food restaurant located in Durham, have bought the establishment that used to house Asia Cafe.
For UNC students like sophomore Noah Cabanas, he's more excited about the thought of a new restaurant.
"Having a new, non-pizza place on Franklin is exciting, as I enjoy having a variety of food options," he said.
Curry Point advertises friendly service, good value, authenticity and speed. There is a customizable aspect to the menu and a selection of salads, kebabs, biryani and wraps. A build your own plate option starts at $6.00.
Mike DePersia, a broker at National Restaurant Properties, oversaw the sale of Asia Cafe. He said the most recent owners of Asia Cafe have been in business for the past six or seven years.
DePersian said the owners, originally from New York, left their daughter Melody in charge of Asia Cafe, but eventually needed her help with other family businesses back home. While the owner was determining whether or not she would sell Asia Cafe, DePersia and National Restaurant Properties kept the sale confidential and did not tell employees or customers.
The new owners of the space have to renovate and upgrade the building before they can open, DePersia said, which is why there has been a slight delay in Curry Point opening. He is unsure of when the restaurant will open.
DePersia said he believes the new owners are inclined to keep the same name as the Durham location. Whether or not this means it will have the same menu is still uncertain. The owners plan to incorporate some of Asia Cafe's old menu items, and the restaurant will have an Asian fusion profile.
To get the day's news and headlines in your inbox each morning, sign up for our email newsletters.
