Around the Corner Candy gets new home in repurposed former bowling alley

Around the Corner Candy has moved into its newly renovated space in West Dundee, clearing the way for the demolition of a cluster of downtown buildings.

The novelty candy and gift shop has taken over about 1,000 square feet of space at 101 S. First St., a former bowling alley and office space being repurposed by property owner Tom Roeser. This is the store's third location since owner Kim Srajer started the business 19 years ago, said her daughter, Clare Srajer, also a co-owner.

"It's different because it's a lot more open and has a more modern feel, even though we try to keep it nostalgic," she said. "You can see everything we have to offer."

The move frees up the 99 W. Main St. property - the candy store's previous location - to be knocked down along with three other vacant buildings on Main Street. The demolition of those structures, which is included in the village's downtown redevelopment plan, is expected to begin early next week, Village Manager Joe Cavallaro said.

Several other nearby buildings have already been razed as part of West Dundee's project to revitalize the corner of First and Main streets by adding more parking, beautifying the riverfront and stabilizing the riverbank. The village board is expected to vote Monday to solicit bids for the remainder of the work, Cavallaro said, and construction will likely begin in May.

Roeser, president of Otto Engineering in Carpentersville, is also working to fill the remaining 6,500 square feet of available space at 101 S. First St. He has begun working with owners of an existing restaurant interested in opening a second location in the newly refurbished building, he said, though he would not disclose the name of the establishment until the deal is final.

Around the Corner Candy moved into its new spot last week, Srajer said, and large crowds have already stopped by to check out the new space, especially over the weekend.

"It's been an amazing first week so far," she said. "Hopefully, third time's a charm for us."