× Expand Photo by George Mahe

Photo by George Mahe

Tani Sushi Bistro (7726 Forsyth), one of the more popular sushi restaurants in St. Louis, unexpectedly closed after service on Saturday night.

On Sunday, a notice on Tani’s website read, “Tani is terminating operations in its current location,” and asked that readers submit an email address “for important future Tani updates.” On Sunday evening, staffers were seen removing perishables and electronic equipment from the premises.

Reached Sunday evening and asked about the “future Tani updates,” Heckman was vague. He did confirm that the current restaurant was closed and that “some repositioning and restructuring was necessary.”

Heckman also said he'd been toying with the idea of a fast-casual concept outside of Clayton but added that it was premature to say anything about any future relocation for Tani, except to say, “Stay tuned. You’re not done with me yet.”

In 2008, Tani Sushi Bistro opened at 16 S. Bemiston in Clayton, but after five years had outgrown the space. In early 2014, the business moved around the corner to 7726 Forsyth, just east of Pastaria. At the time, Heckman told SLM "that after five years, a restaurant 'needs to do something,' as in expand, improve, or move."

More as we learn it.