ROCK ISLAND, Illinois — One year after a legendary Rock Island eatery closed for good, customers can take home memories to last a lifetime. Le Figaro, 1708 2nd Avenue, is selling everything from salt shakers to fine art.
The tag sale is open to the public at the former restaurant from 9-5 on Thursday, July 28. It will continue from 9-5 on Friday, July 29, and from 9-1 on Saturday, July 30.
The tag sale is a sentimental journey for owner Rachid Bouchareb. He opened Le Figaro back in 1982 but is enjoying retirement these days.
"I hope they can come in, see something they like and buy it," he said.
After more than 30 years of fine dining, this is like a trip back in time.
"You come in and see low lights, white tablecloths," he continued.
Now, he's selling it all. Items include menus for $5.
"We used to charge $5.95 for New York Strip Steak," he recalled.
An ornate decorative mirror is priced at $3,000.
The huge inventory represents the restaurant's long run in Rock Island.
For decades, the "It" spot for rehearsal dinners, graduations and special occasions.
"It was the premier restaurant," recalled sale director Jean McFedries. "You could enjoy a delightful evening of service and food."
Those bygone days seem to come alive with each work of art or stack of supplies. Longtime customers will come back once more to take home some memories.
"Yes, I do know that people are coming back to hopefully buy a nice piece of history," she said.
Rachid hopes a new owner can also save the building, saying that the setting is just right for another restaurant.
"I hope somebody can come in and do what we did or even better," he said.
Of course, there's only one Le Figaro.
"Rock Island deserves a nice place," he concluded.
The tag sale will resume from 8/1-8/3 at the restaurant.
For a photo gallery of items, check out scottyshighlandtrading.com.