City Center Bishop Ranch, San Ramon
Thanks to a reader for sending word that GAP, which closed this summer at Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek, has opened in a much smaller space at City Center Bishop Ranch in San Ramon. It looks like a pop-up location and according to an employee, they are testing in smaller spaces to see what consumers are after.
1639 Bonanza St, Walnut Creek
Although temporarily closed due to COVID-19, Portland-based Bishops Cuts & Color, which opened a couple of years ago in downtown Walnut Creek, is now known as Prep. “Born in San Francisco, parent-friendly, we are a new type of urban hair studio.” Check out their services here.
Blackhawk Plaza, Danville
The liquid nitrogen-based, made-on-demand ice cream shop Creamistry, which opened a couple of years ago at Blackhawk Plaza in Danville, has closed.
Crossroads of Danville
Over the summer we learned that Gmama Halal Indian Food would be opening at the Crossroads of Danville where Kohala Kitchen used to be and they are now open. Check out their menu here.
From their website:
I have a passion for making delicious authentic food. All my life, I have specialized in preparing authentic, home made food. Specializing in Biryanis
3339 Mt Diablo Blvd, Lafayette
Thanks to all who sent word that El Charro Mexican Dining, in business for over 70 years in Lafayette, will be closing year-end, as a consequence of the “financial loss due to the coronavirus pandemic”, according to this Mercury News article. Check out their goodbye message and updates on their Facebook page here.
200 Hartz Ave, Danville
In March we learned that Hazy Barbecue would be opening in Danville and they have now opened. Check out their menu here. NYE BBQ packs are available to order online here. The inside looks great and I can’t wait to try this place eventually.
From their website:
Our barbecue technique parallels Texas style; smoked meats with signature dry rubs over oak wood fires. And although smoky, tender, juicy fare is literally “the meat” of Hazy, we also offer a variety of delicious salads, fresh vegetable sides and many unique options for all ages, diets and lifestyles.
522 Hartz Ave, Danville
Thanks to a reader for sending word that earlier this month, Francesca’s filed for bankruptcy with 140 stores closing, including the Blackhawk Plaza and Hartz Ave. locations in Danville. Their Lafayette and Stoneridge Mall location in Pleasanton remain open. Check out their online shop here.
This mural by Velia De Iuliis was spotted at the Duncan Arcade in downtown Walnut Creek, right near the previous mural of the day. Check out her other murals here, and find out more about the artist here.
1385 N. Main St, Walnut Creek
Last year we learned that the owners of A & G Jewelers in downtown Walnut Creek were retiring. However, they have reopened under new ownership. Check for updates on their Facebook page here.
1341 N. Main St, Walnut Creek
Sad news as the women’s fashion boutique Norf London is closing in downtown Walnut Creek after being in business nearly fifteen years. Check for updates on their Facebook page here. I’ve passed by this shop thousands of times over the years and always enjoyed seeing that Union Jack flag while practicing my Cockney accent.