The hording is beginning to come off and the interiors look partially done (when the windows are uncovered).  If things progress the way they are right now, the new store could open around TIFF/Fashion’s Night Out!  The store is going to be much bigger than the current location – probably triple the size – and is apparently going to be one of the biggest in North America.  However, the rumours surrounding who will take over the current location remain a bit tight lipped.  Dior has, as noted in a post back in April, circled around for a while, but wouldn’t we have heard something by now?  Especially so close to the Big Move?  I really don’t think anyone would want to see the LV House empty for long.  Other openings?  Blo has made its way back to Yorkville after being displaced when the Four Seasons closed to prepare for their big move to Bay Street this fall.  Their new home is on Yorkville Avenue, taking over part of what was once a Chimichanga’s restaurant and is a bit bigger than their previous location.

As for closures, Mendocino left the area just weeks ago when their lease expired.  Though there’s no hoarding yet, there are construction notices, leading me to believe that someone is going to move in very soon (rumour is that Escada is going to be downsizing and moving in).  Across the street, one of the oldest Starbucks, which at one point, anchored a Chapters store (now Winners) has closed.  However, that will soon be replaced by another location, just around the corner from the new LV. Yet another Starbucks will be opening on the south side of Bloor as well.  As for what the recently Starbucks will become? Only time will tell.

Other interesting Yorkville area updates:  Lee Chen Asian Diner has quietly changed its name to Lee Chen Bistro, which more accurately reflects what it is.  That eatery is NO diner, after all!