I thought the 'dead mall' thing was just sad, but my trip to the old Sunrise Galleria changed my mind

I always figured these places were just depressing shells, you know? But last month, I drove out to the Sunrise Galleria in Clearwater. The main part was closed off, but the old food court was still open with one Chinese place running. The owner, Mr. Li, has been there 22 years. He told me, 'The rent is cheap, and my regulars still find me.' Seeing that one spot buzzing with life, while the rest was so quiet, it wasn't just sad. It felt like a weird little pocket of the past, still working. Has anyone else found a single business keeping the lights on in a mall that's mostly gone?

2 comments

2 Comments

lindaw291mo ago

Mr. Li staying for 22 years is a serious commitment. Honestly, did you get a sense of who his regulars are now? Like, is it mostly older folks from when the mall was busy, or has he picked up a whole new crowd that seeks out these forgotten spots?

lily5111mo ago

Saw a mix. Some older couples who clearly knew the layout. But also younger people with cameras, like they were exploring. Did you notice if the regulars talk to each other, or is it just quiet nods?