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The Downtown Committee and the City of Syracuse hosted a special grand opening ceremony for Joette’s at Armory Square and highlighted three Armory Square businesses which demonstrate the strength of this historic downtown district.   Mayor Matthew J. Driscoll said, “I have to congratulate Joette’s for knowing a good thing when they see it. Armory Square is a great business and entertainment environment.  Joette’s decision to move their location toward the center of the Square is an indication of their commitment to our downtown.  I wish them the best of luck.”   “Armory Square is the hub of owner-occupied retailing in Syracuse,” said David A. Mankiewicz, executive director of the Downtown Committee of Syracuse.  “These businesses are a good sign for our economy and are great examples of the independent entrepreneurship that drives successful retail downtown.” 

Joette’s at Armory Square

Just five years old, this thriving Armory Square retailer, featuring women’s accessories, celebrated its grand opening in a new, expanded location at 121 Walton Street.  Joette’s has added 30-percent more square footage and expanded sections of merchandise in its new store.   As part of today’s grand opening celebration, Joette’s is offering all customers 20-percent off the price of any item of their choice.  There is also a raffle for a $200 Joette’s gift certificate.   “We are very happy and proud to be part of Armory Square,” said Joette Mancuso.   “This area has been so good to us that when our lease was up, there was no doubt in our minds that we would want to find a new location – with more space – in the same area.” 

Kenn Kushner Designs

After operating one of the area’s premier designer jewelry stores in the Armory Square area for a decade, Kenn Kushner moved to Fayetteville at the end of 2004.  Kushner recently moved back to Armory Square after an absence of just over three years. “The grass always seems greener on the other side of the fence,” said Kushner.  “I moved out to Fayetteville and found out that, in fact, business is better here in Armory Square – and you can’t beat the atmosphere.” Located at 183 Walton Street, Kushner carries several brands of designer jewelry, including his own line.  He also creates custom designs, to order. 

The Black Olive

There are plans for Armory Square to have its first Mediterranean restaurant in the coming weeks.  The Black Olive will be located at 316 S. Clinton Street.  The menu will include Greek, Arabic, and other cuisine native to the Mediterranean region.   Owner Basilios Koumanidis says he intends to “start with breakfast and lunch” and will open for dinner in the future, upon obtaining a liquor license.