Wharf Marketplace in Monterey to close permanently on Thursday.

Monterey's downtown revival has been years in the making, and city officials long had their eyes on one particularly coveted prize—a 10-year lease in the old train depot off Figueroa Street, next to the parking lot at the base of Fisherman's Wharf. It's a prime location off the Rec Trail with lots of visibility. 

Following a contentious process in 2012-13, Spreckels-based agribusiness Tanimura & Antle was selected as the tenant, with City Council overriding a recommendation by planning staff to approve a different concept.

T&A has operated a grocery store and cafe  called The Wharf Marketplace, tagline "The Bounty of the County," which evolved over its five years in business to include more extensive deli offerings and a full salad bar, plus a wine tasting area with seating, in addition to the original produce market concept.

The Wharf Marketplace went up for sale in December. Without a buyer, it is now set to close permanently after Thursday, March 15. 

"Thank you for your business and loyalty," a sign posted in the doors reads. 

The store will have regular hours on its last day, Thursday, from 10am-7pm, with a weekly wine tasting from 4:30-7pm. 

T&A's marketing director, Kyla Oberman, declines to comment but says customers are encouraged to contact the marketing department (marketing@taproduce.com) with any questions about outstanding balances on gift cards. 

T&A's 10-year lease with the city of Monterey does not expire until expires July 31, 2023. It will be the company's responsibility to find a subtenant to move in and keep the commercial space occupied for the duration of the lease, says Monterey Property Manager Janna Aldrete.

"I hope they find a subtenant soon, especially coming into peak season," Aldrete says. 

"It's a little gem right there along the Rec Trail," she adds. "They did a fabulous job in renovating."