DES MOINES, Iowa — Items that once filled Zora Bar and Rooftop are being auctioned off this week, eight months after the local spot officially closed.
Now, the space is truly vacant and waiting for a new life. Situated on the corner of Ingersoll Ave. and MLK Pkwy, the location is prime real estate and is officially up for grabs.
"That corner is a very, very important corner," said Nate Niceswanger. His local record store, Zzz Records, sits next to the Zora building. "Not only is it a busy intersection, it's kind of a gateway down to the airport."
Niceswanger moved his business to the Ingersoll area in 2008. Throughout his time he has seen the rise and fall of the various businesses situated on that corner. While he is unsure what will come next, he has a few ideas in mind.
“What I would love to see is a 24-hour diner. When we got to COVID, we lost a lot of our late-night restaurants," he told Local 5.
Des Moines City Councilman Josh Mandelbaum also sees the potential for a new food spot. His ward, Ward 3, covers the Ingersoll area.
“That space is in one of the most dynamic corridors in the city," Mandelbaum said. "Having a business, a small business, a restaurant, something along those lines that brings folks in for a meal… that would be a great fit there.”
There is no shortage of ideas for what could fill the spot. The prospect excites both residents and local business owners alike.
Ed Allen, businessman and former Zora owner is facing legal action from the county, the city, and even former employees.