Syracuse. N.Y. — A two-year-old shop in Eastwood known for “vintage, artisan and unusual” items is closing Dec. 23.
That gives holiday shoppers just a few more weeks to find the decorative objects, arts and crafts pieces, furniture and other items for sale at the Marketplace on James. The market has provided space to about 50 vendors selling wares, and also handles sales for artists and crafters on consignment.
The market’s slogan is “Where Old Meets New” and its sign boasts “odd and unique gifts.” It’s also known for its charitable contributions, including the donation of 10% of sales one weekend day each month to local nonprofits.
“We’re still getting things in, but I’m trying to condense it all for the final push,” said Eileen Porto, who opened the eclectic shop at 2802 James St. in September 2021. “We have a lot of 50% off on some nice furniture, buffet hutches and other cool things.”
Porto’s lease is up and she’s had difficulty reaching a new agreement with the landlord of the space, which once housed a bar called the Tip A Few. The property owner is Skinner & Associates.
Porto is actively seeking a new space, preferably, she said, in Eastwood. But she’s also checking out locations in the Westcott Street business district.
Inside the Marketplace on James, which sells modern and vintage decorative objects, arts and crafts, furniture and more at 2802 James St. in Eastwood. The shop will close Dec. 23. Don Cazentre
The closing of the market is has also led to the upcoming relocation of Kofta Burger, a Middle Eastern-inspired burger restaurant located inside. It will stay through the closing, and then move to a new space in downtown Syracuse.
Porto, who also works full-time at Federal Express, offered this perspective on the business a few weeks ago when she announced the closing on Facebook:
“Over the course of the past 2 years we have proven to be an anchor shop in Eastwood with customers coming near & far. MPJ has been our heart & soul. We met so many vendors, neighbors, business owners & customers that strongly supported us & become friends. We’re a safe place for others, donate to many worthy causes & advocate for those who find it hard to do so for themselves.”
That news was greeted with dismay by loyal customers.
“This is really disappointing,“ Amanda Hart Schaub wrote in response to the Facebook post. “Your shop is wonderful and has contributed to changing the landscape of the surrounding blocks for the better.”
The market is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, with the final date of Saturday, Dec. 23.
The Marketplace on James, which sells modern and vintage decorative objects, arts and crafts, furniture and more at 2802 James St. in Eastwood. The shop will close Dec. 23. Don Cazentre
Don Cazentre writes for NYup.com, syracuse.com and The Post-Standard. Reach him at dcazentre@nyup.com, or follow him at NYup.com, on Twitter or Facebook.