Lafayette is banking on the fourth time being the charm for an Italian restaurant at Baseline and South Public roads. After three restaurants failed there (most recently 7 West) in the last decade, building owners were set to fill the spot with office space. To keep an eatery there, the city is sharing the risk with the owners and Annie Lee, who reopened Sweet Tomato in the former 7 West spot, which was home to Lee’s Sweet Tomato in the ’90s. Lafayette will pay two months rent, and cover up to six more ($4,833/ month) if it goes under again.

What’s Next: We like the city’s gusto, but wait to see if the Tomato makes it this time around and not leave Lafayette with the bill.

February 2008