A new restaurant development in historic downtown Gilbert has come to a sudden halt due to serious allegations against the property’s landowner. Bottled Blonde, known for its lively venues across Scottsdale and other cities, has pulled out of plans to establish a new restaurant in Gilbert. This decision follows the October 24 arrest of its millionaire landowner, Aaron Wagner, on federal fraud charges, accusing him of running schemes to deceive investors for personal gains.
The Allegations Against Aaron Wagner
Federal agents took Wagner into custody in Salt Lake City, alleging he operated Ponzi-like schemes that misled investors. According to court filings, Wagner and his business associate, Michael Mains, face multiple charges, including wire fraud and money laundering. The indictment accuses Wagner of funneling investor funds into luxury purchases—spending millions on a private aircraft, high-end real estate, and a nightclub venture. Among his most notable investments were an $8 million personal jet and an upscale real estate property in Missoula, Montana.
Wagner’s legal team has responded to the indictment, with attorney Nathan Crane strongly denying all accusations. “Mr. Wagner looks forward to vigorously defending himself in court,” Crane said. Wagner’s case, scheduled for trial on February 3, will determine the outcome of his alleged financial wrongdoings and could have further implications for his properties.
Community and Historical Concerns
The proposed Bottled Blonde development stirred considerable controversy in Gilbert long before Wagner’s legal issues emerged. At the center of this debate lies the Clare House, a historic property built in 1918 that has become a rallying point for Gilbert residents dedicated to preserving the area’s character. Many community members voiced concerns that a large, lively restaurant could disrupt the town’s historical ambiance.
Earlier this year, thousands of Gilbert residents signed a petition urging town leaders to halt the construction of Bottled Blonde at the Clare House site. However, town officials clarified they lacked authority over private real estate transactions, affirming that the project complied with Gilbert’s current zoning regulations. In response to preservation efforts, the Gilbert Historical Museum launched a campaign to save the Clare House by relocating it but had raised only a fraction of the needed $135,000 by October.
Next Steps for the Gilbert Development Site
Following Wagner’s arrest, Bottled Blonde’s parent company, Evening Entertainment Group, withdrew from the Gilbert project in October 2024. Their official statement emphasized their decision to discontinue the lease agreement with Wagner’s company amid the unfolding allegations.
As the project remains on hold, the future of the Clare House and the site itself is now uncertain. Gilbert officials explained that any redevelopment plans will rest with the current or future property owners, and the town will oversee compliance with municipal codes. Notably, the site’s existing design approval is set to expire on February 21, 2027, if new developments do not commence.
In a parallel move, federal authorities are seeking forfeiture of all property linked to Wagner’s alleged crimes, which may affect his Gilbert holdings. With a trial date approaching and local preservation efforts ongoing, the Clare House’s future in downtown Gilbert remains in limbo. The coming months may determine whether this historic landmark will be preserved or continue as a target for redevelopment.
