A focal point in the downtown music scene will cease to exist this weekend, and the owner is not happy about it.

Waltz Live Music, which has had sidewalk-side real estate in Jackson Square for 25 years, is being forced to move. Owner Hannah Hsiao says she hopes to relocate it, preferably downtown. But the circumstances behind the move still sting.

Hsiao's business is in the location of the future Anchor Bar, an iconic Buffalo-based restaurant where the chicken wing was invented. Hsiao was notified by Jackson Square property managers on Aug. 29 that she had until the end of September to vacate.

Hsiao, who has owned the business for eight years, says she's heartbroken.

"All my regulars are here," she said. "I've known them for over eight years. It's my heart and soul here."

Hsiao purchased the business — which has a kitchen, a bar, and a live stage — in 2004. She signed a three-year lease for the 4,600-square-foot space. When it expired in 2007, she said she wanted to renegotiate, but lapsed into a month-to-month arrangement with Yale Properties.

Without a lease, the Commercial Tenancies Act dictates that a landlord may order a tenant to vacate with 30-days notice.

The shuffle has also included two businesses across from Waltz — a dentist's office and a print shop. Phone calls this week confirmed that both businesses are moving at the end of the month.

Hsaio, who employs about 15 people, said she was not offered another space in Jackson Square. Ron English, a long-time patron and former school board trustee who is acting as Hsaio's business advisor, asked Yale Properties for elaboration. He'd also like more information on claims that Waltz "was not operating in 'a high class reputable manner.'" On Sept. 19, Yale Properties declined the request.

The leasing manager for Yale Properties did not return calls this week.

Some Waltz Live Music regulars said this week they'll be sad to see the end of an establishment that feels like home.

Ed and Judi Keller, both in their seventies, live three blocks from the bar. Patrons have walked them home late at night to ensure they're safe, Judi said. They have taught several younger patrons to swing dance.

Robert Smith, dining room manager and employee for 13 years, said he'll miss the people.

"We know most everything about them," he said. "We know where they work, what they do, who their kids are and what their families are all about."

Hsiao will have live bands on Sept. 28 and 29 as a farewell party. Doors open at 9 p.m. Friday night at 2 King St. W.