Many rumors drifted across the metro in recent weeks prior to Thursday's announcement about the new tenant in Manito Shopping Center.

We heard it would be good ol' Trader Joe's, the trendy California food and beverage retailer, who has toyed with our affections before. (see this earlier SR business story).

But lost in the coverage was the under story, namely, that while Ross Dress for Less was taking over the empty Gottschalks at 29th and Grand Blvd., the little food restaurant on the lower level, Pear Tree Inn, is now out.

Brokers for NAI Black, who represent the owners of the mall, say a new plan has a mod ale house/pub planned for that 2,500-square-foot location, which fronts the west side lower parking lot.

It's next to the state liquor store, which has a long term lease and will remain there.

Incidentally, we went to the liquor store several weeks ago to suss out the REAL story on who was taking over Gottschalks. An employee at the liquor store said, "It's that clothing company, Ross."

We should have believed her.

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