1348 Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek

Last October we learned that Los Angeles-based Lemonade would be opening in downtown Walnut Creek where La Boulange Cafe used to be and signage now appears on the windows indicating a summer 2016 opening. According to SFGate they plan on a June 15th opening. The article also notes that the Bay Area menu will include, “tossed leafy greens station to the mix, and given our region’s cooler climate, will also be expanding their selection of hot dishes and rotisserie items.” The design of the Bay Area restaurants will “feature warmer woods and textures to reflect the cool and foggier climate.”

Is this going to be similar to Tender Greens?

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1500 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Walnut Creek

One of the most highly anticipated restaurant openings of the year, ROOFTOP,  located above Teleferic Barcelona at the corner of Mt. Diablo Blvd. and Main St. in downtown Walnut Creek has finally arrived and will be opening this week. The decor and architecture look amazing, and one of the more intriguing features is the retractable roof. It’s way larger than expected; In the evenings when the roof comes down I can imagine this will be an insanely cool place to hang out at the bar or have a bite to eat while gazing at the stars up above. (Check out photos of the inside including retractable roof, outdoor dining area and more after the jump).

For those not familiar with the chef:

Justine Kelly, former Chef de Cuisine at James Beard award winning restaurant The Slanted Door comes to Rooftop as a Partner/Executive Chef. Her menu is ingredient driven, seasonal new American cuisine that is influenced by foods from around the globe. From brightly flavored raw bar offerings to hearty, soulful entrées. She is bringing with her a little taste of San Francisco through the tunnel.

Chef Kelly, has competed on both the Iron Chef and Williams-Sonoma/Tasting Table’s Sous Chef Series and Cooked for President Clinton and the first lady. She most recently served as Executive Chef at The Battery as well as Consulting Chef at Bull Valley Roadhouse and at the always-packed Chino while running her meal and recipe delivery service, Sun Basket.

Check out the preliminary dinner menu here, and drinks menu here. You can make a reservation on their website here.

More photos of the inside after the jump…

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