10 Businesses that Closed in 2011

We've kicking off our 2011 Year in Review series here on Hauppauge Patch by saying goodbye to those local businesses who have locked their doors and stopped doing business in Hauppauge. These businesses ranged from small local shops to large retailers, some fleeting while others left behind a lasting imprint.

Here's 10 businesses that closed in 2011:

1. Ara International Grille & Bar: This modern restaurant at the corner of Routes 347 and 25 earns a unique distinction in our count down of both and within a three-month window in 2011. It joins a string of others that have tried and failed in the same seemingly doomed location.

2. : This small local florist shop in the Atrium Plaza on Route 11 has served Hauppauge residents for years with flower bouquets, special events and wedding arrangements. Artisan Flowers in Hauppauge quietly without much notice in October, but continues to be operated by owner Kathy Saltalamacchio out of a new location.

3. : This second business opened by Saltalamacchio out of her florist shop, also closed in Hauppauge when Artisan Flowers and Gifts moved on.

4. Borders: This bookstore chain was forced to close all its stores, including Commack and Lake Grove storefronts, after declaring bankruptcy. Customers had months to buy books, magazines, CDs and other goods at steep discounts as the retailer tried to pay of creditors. Shoppers , but said they will adapt to e-readers.

5. Innovative Fitness: This gym and fitness center in the Hauppauge Industrial Park closed and was purchased by new owners who have re-opened as

6. : A former investor in Venue 56 re-opened as a family-friendly, Italian leaning restaurant named after his daughter in Dec. 2010. That restaurant only lasted for less than 6 months before the eatery's doors closed again, becoming the next in a series of turnovers.

7. : When this long-standing bagel and deli was popular with Hauppauge students and staff alike closed, Atrium Plaza property owner Mark Brecker said he was

8. : This pet store chain was the last business remaining in the Route 347 shopping center after Ara International and Sixth Avenue Electronics closed. It's now a vacant strip oddly deserted not far from Smith Haven Mall.

9. Sixth Avenue Electronics: This electronics retailer closed all of its Long Island stores, including , on Route 347 in 2011. The closure was part of a larger plan to help Sixth Avenue Electronics bring its debt under control.

10. Commack Multiplex: Despite being one town over, Commack Multiplex earns honorary mention for closing in September. It was one of the largest and closest movie theaters to Hauppauge residents for years.

Tell us, what business or shop will you miss the most?