Alexandria (web | news) , Va. - Old Town Alexandria is known for its wonderful old buildings, art galleries and traditional stores, but a new attraction has some raising their eyebrows and covering their children's eyes.

Billed as a couples boutique, "Let Tashe" is French for "the spot" and is making some who pass by uncomfortable.

"I just think it's really trashy. I mean, I'm a mom with three little girls and we walk down here all the time, and I'm embarrassed to walk by it," said Kelly Hayden, Old Town resident.

The store, which opened this week, is right across from the visitor's center on King Street. It is located right up the street from a children's toy and clothing store. Some people feel it is tainting the area, known for quaint gift shops and fine restaurants.

Bob King owns the building next door. "Don't think it's appropriate for here in Old Town. If you look at the flavor of what's here--it's a very family-oriented environment-- we have a lot of tourists coming in now," said King.

Le Tashe is buying 210 King Street from attorney Michael Zarlenga, who lost a heated battle with the city to enlarge the historic building, so he's selling it.

John Kenney, owner of several adult video stores in Virginia and now Le Tashe, says "if couples are coming here walking around and kissing, I think our products will serve the neighborhood well."

The boutique offers three levels of high-end lingerie, sex toys and tapes. Kenney says parents should not be offended.

"How do you think they got the children... I think it's appropriate," said Kenney, Le Tache owner.

Some say it will  help attract shoppers to an area that needs it. "They're going to Georgetown and D.C. so I think that this will keep a lot of the local community here in Alexandria," said Mary Katherine Tyler, Old Town resident.

The city's gotten complaints about the new scantily clad kid on the block, though, and is now reviewing the regulations to see if there's anything that says no sex in the city.

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