By Abby Jessen

The owner of East West Bistro in Downtown Athens disappeared last week, taking everything of value from the restaurant. The items taken are worth more than 9 thousand dollars.

“He just disappeared,” remarks previous owner Renee Middleton.

The restaurant has been closed since owner Joe Yan ran out of town taking coolers, liquor, computers and all other valuables from the restaurant. Middleton claims Yan still owes money to both her and the landlord, both of whom were surprised at his disappearance because he has made every payment for two years.

Both Middleton and police have been unable to contact Yan. Middleton is in the process of selling the few things that Yan left behind including the restaurant, which she says will probably no longer be known as East West Bistro.