Business & Tech
Derby Deli Piano Bar Plays its Last Tune Saturday
The 1930s-themed lounge is closing its doors for the last time this weekend.
On Saturday, Jan. 18, Mission Viejo will lose its dueling piano bar.
The Derby Deli at the Kaleidoscope is closing its doors after four years of business.
Owner Dan Lauriano wanted to create a 1930s-themed night spot, complete with a back-room speakeasy with gambling games (played using free chips, not cash). He said he wanted to breathe new life into the struggling center, and in the process bolster his other restaurant, Riptide Sushi.
Lauriano did not return a Thursday afternoon message for comments. He left a goodbye note on Facebook last week that has since been deleted.
The 6,332-square-foot restaurant and bar was known for its theme nights, like Wagon Wheel Wednesday and a dueling piano show every Friday and Saturday night.
Losing the restaurant will be a blow to the center, Councilman Dave Leckness said.
"No business owner wants to hear about another business going out of business," he said, adding that the Kaleidoscope Center has had trouble generating foot traffic.
What's your memory of the Derby Deli? Leave it in the comments below.
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