Zoning approved for Rock-n-Sake

The Metro Council’s Planning and Zoning Commission approved zoning changes—from “light commercial” to “commercial alcoholic beverage”—for the building that once housed Perkins Road Hardware. Rock-n-Sake, a popular New Orleans sushi restaurant, will open in a 3,500-square-foot space later this year or in early 2010, says Chad Ortte with Donnie Jarreau Real Estate. “We’ve been wanting to expand our concept for a long time,” says Rock-n-Sake managing partner Tisbee Dantin. “And Baton Rouge has become so attractive as far as population and demographics. It is almost as big as New Orleans.” Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches, a delivery franchise, opens in its 1,300-square-foot space in three or four months. Ortte says 2,600 square feet remains vacant in the old hardware store, and several boutiques, salons and small shops have been eyeing the space.—Rebecca Breeden