The Ever-Evolving Center
B y now, everyone knows Panera Bread left. Anyone hankering for a sandwich can head to Waltham, Burlington, or buy the company’s bread at Stop & Shop. Caffeine lovers with a particular taste are probably having withdrawal since Starbucks did a vanishing act, too.
The Lexington Times reached out to Panera and Starbucks’ headquarters representatives. Both were non-responsive, which is probably why rumors are floating through town about staffing problems and issues relating to expired leases.
Echoes of the Past
A few centuries ago, horse-drawn buggies lumbered through the center past an inn and a train depot. When the first automobiles sputtered along Massachusetts Avenue, the Edison Station and a few shops appeared.
Later Woolworths, Decelle’s, and the Battle Green Inn anchored the center. Only Michelson’s―founded in 1919, Crafty Yankee, Mario’s, Theater Pharmacy, Lexington Venue (known by other names and once a vaudeville stage) remain after decades of serving Lexington families.
Celebrating a New Era
Change is good, especially when it involves bubbles, herbal earth-friendly products, books, and uber playtime technology.
President of the Retailer’s Association Eric Michelson is excited about the new businesses in Lexington Center and around Lexington. “They are all unique and are already meeting the needs of our local shoppers.”
The Chamber of Commerce executive director concurs. “What had been emptied storefronts are occupied and reenergized,” Erin Sandler-Rathe said. “We’re excited to see these new businesses coming in.”
CoCo Fresh Tea and Juice
1764 Massachusetts Ave.
Mon. – Sun. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
www.cocobubbletea.com
Jeffrey Lin rediscovered Lexington while driving through town one day. Pleasant memories of his teenage years hanging around the center with friends and its vibrancy made him think.
“It triggered memories and led me to believe there was a business to be had here,” Lin said.
A few weeks ago, he introduced the town to bubble tea, something he’s been drinking since he was 3-years-old.
The smell of simmering brown sugar floats through the store as customers walk in. Vats of brewed tea and containers with dark cassava root (tapioca)pearls sit behind the glass partition.
There is exacting preparation for the drink, Lin says. He arrives early to cook the “bubbles.” Some he said are made from tapioca, but his are from cassava root. The bubbles and sugar are cooked for at least an hour, and the tea is brewed and cooled.
The tea, whether regular, mango or whatever the choice, is custom-made for each person. Non-dairy creamer amounts vary, too, as does the ice. It is, Lin said, lactose-free.
Scoops of the dark bubbles are ladled into the bottom of a plastic cup. The tea, sugar, and lightener are added and then hand shaken. A mystical machine seals a plastic top onto the cup.
Lin explained that this is done in Taiwan and here. First, the wide straw is punched through the plastic and into the tea. Then, one drinks the bubbles, Lin explained.
It is absolutely delicious, and the bubbles are soft and chewy.
Bubble tea is a traditional day-to-day Taiwanese beverage. Those on Scooters buzzing through Taiwan are usually holding onto one, Lin explained. The only way to keep moving and hold the drink is by sealing the cup as he does at his store.
It’s already popular and well-loved. There are lines outside before opening and throughout the day.
Pixel Paradise, Video Gaming Center
20 Waltham Street
Sun. – Thurs. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Fri. – Sat. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
www.pixelparadise.com
There’s a haven for gamers above Omar’s World of Comics. It opened Oct. 30 and already offers gaming competitions. There are sixteen computer consoles, PlayStation 5s, Xbox Series S and Xs, and much more to come.
A dragon simulator is expected soon, and next week virtual reality arrives.
Tyler, speaking downstairs from Omar’s, said that Pixel Paradise is owned by Omar’s sister, Laila Masood.
There are several areas to play these virtual games. The aptly named “Paradise” is for people of all ages, but it’s noticeably busy right after school.
Board games are also available for those who prefer old school or are technically challenged.
Maxima Book Center
1717 Massachusetts Ave.
Mon. – Sat. 10 – 7, Sun. Noon – 5 p.m.
maximacenter.com
There’s a bookstore in Lexington once again. It’s a good reason not to order from Amazon or head to Burlington.
He’s already heard comments from people on the street that Lexington without a bookstore is unacceptable. The proof is stacked in the display window, and the people walking out carrying the bound gems. Brian Phillips, 24-year-owner of Maxima Gift Center in Arlington, opened in Lexington two months ago. Phillips said he’s already selling lots of books.
“People are excited to come in and see bestsellers and new releases.”
Autographed copies of books are a big hit, he said. He’s reaching out to more authors in hopes of making those tomes even more special.
“We already have a rewards program,” Phillips said of the plan that automatically registers customers.
A New Beginning at Crafty Yankee
1838 Massachusetts Avenue in Lexington Center
shopcraftyyankee.com
This holiday season, make the effort to support local businesses throughout Lexington. There’s a great selection of shoes and much more at Michelson’s Shoes, sundries from Theater Pharmacy, classic estate Jewelry at Fancy Flea Antiques and Lexington Coin, a great selection of pens and stationery supplies at Signature Stationers, and a large selection of toys and games at Catch a Falling Star. Lastly, Christmas is always exciting at Crafty Yankee, but this year new owners have worked very hard to update the look and feel of the classic gift shop. It’s been here since forever, but now has new owners. In Feb. 2021, brother and sister Melissa and Cooper Robbins took the helm, with guidance and encouragement from their mom, Melissa Robbins and Melissa’s husband Bob Clifford. They are well-stocked and ready for the holidays.
Melissa explains that she’s proud of the new twenty-something owners, and pleased at the reception they’ve received since reopening after renovation. “It’s been a wonderful experience,” she said. The town has been wonderful to us.” Melissa has a fine arts and crafts pedigree having spent years advising gift shops and working with individual craftspeople. She cautions folks to shop early for the best selection. She said, “Even small craftspeople and artists are not immune to supply chain issues. We are working hard to bring our customers an eclectic selection of fine gifts, and we look forward to getting even better acquainted with our new neighbors here in Lexington during the holiday shopping season.”
We welcome the new stores serving Lexington families, and are grateful for the commitment of all Lexington shop owners who go above and beyond every day.