Here’s a look at the businesses that are moving in and out of Methuen.
NOW OPEN
*RIKKO Kitchen: Opened last month offering Latin fusion at 176 Pelham St.
ANNIVERSARIES
*Piro’s Bakery: Pies, cookies and bread … oh my! Congrats to Piro’s on Merrimack Street as they celebrate 40 SWEET years in business. Follow them on social media for specials … like Aunty Mary’s meatless pizza available Fridays during Lent.
CLOSED
*Michael’s Bakery: In a Feb. 12 social media post, the Lowell Street bakery announced that it had permanently closed its doors “earlier this week” as the family is moving to Florida and will sell their delicious cookies, cakes, baklava and more there. “Abdo came to this country 13 years ago after owning 2 bakeries in Beirut. He chased the American dream in order to bring better opportunities for him and his family,” the post stated. “We thank YOU for helping us achieve this. To say we will miss you, is a massive understatement.”
IN THE WORKS
*Aroma Joe’s: Newly built location on Haverhill Street expects to open soon!
*Hampstead Manor: Renovations continue at the fixture at the end of Hampstead Street, near Route 97. The transformation will result in a steakhouse and martini bar. As of MethuenLife press time, they continue to go through the city inspection process.
BEYOND THE BORDER
*Haverhill Beef announced last month that they’ll be moving from Merrimack Street into the former Chicken Connection spot at 242 Broadway, Haverhill. Unclear when the move will take place.
*Rockingham Grand Casino: The current 19,000-square-foot Salem Casino at the Mall at Rockingham Park will temporarily close March 9 at 1am as it works to complete its 160,000-square-foot, two-floor space. There will be “approximately 825 historical racing machines, 32 gaming tables, a sports bar and other dining venues, retail sports betting, event spaces for entertainment and gathering,” and more, per casino officials. Aiming for a mid-2027 opening.
*Habiburrito Haverhill: Now open at 61 Kenoza Ave. “Mexican flavor meets Middle Eastern soul.” Halal burritos, bows and quesadillas.
*Ellie’s Kitchen: Pizza, wings and more, has opened at 401 Main St., Salem, NH.
*Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse: After 25 years in business, this spot on Route 28 near Chili’s in Salem, N.H., permanently closed on New Year’s Eve. In a Dec. 16 social media post, they shared that – after some renovations – the hibachi and sushi spot will re-open under the name Tear.
