About once a year I go to a local massage studio to get a deep tissue massage which is always relaxing especially considering how many hours a day I sit at a desk. What is your favorite local massage place?
About once a year I go to a local massage studio to get a deep tissue massage which is always relaxing especially considering how many hours a day I sit at a desk. What is your favorite local massage place?
The Vineyard, Concord
Last December we learned that the cafe Bambu closed at The Vineyard shopping center in Concord and thanks to a reader for sending word (and photo) that Milk Tea Lab has opened there. Check out their menu here.
From their website:
Milk Tea Lab presents the utmost modernization of the booming bubble tea culture. We aim to create a space for young kids to enjoy themselves whether it’s to grab a bite, study or hang out with friends. We have a popular collection of board games which are personally collected, from all over Asia for you to enjoy. These games are so exclusive that many are not even sold in the states or available online!
City Center Bishop Ranch, San Ramon
Next month J.Crew-owned clothing store Madewell, which opened at Broadway Plaza several years ago, is opening a new location at City Center Bishop Ranch in San Ramon. Check out their online selection here.
From their store opening event:
Join us for sips and snacks while you shop our latest arrivals—plus, score a complimentary Bien Fait Tote with any purchase.*
SATURDAY, AUGUST 24TH / 11AM–3PM
SUNDAY, AUGUST 24TH / 11AM-3PM*While supplies last
Ygnacio Plaza, Walnut Creek
Thanks to a reader for sending word that China Village Restaurant is closing next month mid-August at Ygnacio Plaza in Walnut Creek after being in business for over 30 years.
Ygnacio Plaza, Walnut Creek
I was checking out Sports Basement at Ygnacio Plaza in Walnut Creek recently when I realized that Modern Acupuncture opened. Find out more about their services here.
I had never tried acupuncture before but since they just opened I was able to try a free 30 minute session. The communal area in back has numerous reclining, heated massage chairs separated by curtains for semi-privacy. It’s quiet with TV screens showing nature scenes with soft music playing in the background. You take your shoes and socks off sitting or lying on the chair and wait for the acupuncturist to come where she asks about problem areas. I mentioned my back and stress and eventually she applied several needles to my hands, feet and head in particular areas to help with these problem areas. Then she left for 20 minutes while I tried to relax with needles sticking out of me. Eventually I got used to it and she came back to remove the needles. Although it’s not like a massage where I get instant relief, I did feel noticeably better later on which pleasantly surprised me. Not sure if this is a placebo affect but I actually feel like it worked better than a massage. If you’re thinking about trying it out I recommend checking this place out!
Park Plaza Shops, Lafayette
Joe & the Juice opened recently at the Park Plaza Shops in Lafayette where Squirrel’s Coffee Shop used to be. In addition to drinks they also offer sandwiches and yogurt. Check out their menu here. I heard they tried to be edgy so wasn’t surprised that all three employees bore plenty of tattoos. I asked one employee whether tattoos were required to work there and he was speechless for a moment before replying that they weren’t. Out of curiosity I’ll have to drop by another time to see if there are tattoo-less employees.
More photos of the inside after the jump…
3483 Mt Diablo Blvd, Lafayette
Thanks to everyone who sent word that Boswell’s Discount Party Supplies has closed in Lafayette after 35 years due losing their lease according to a sign in the window. Their Danville location remains open. One reader wrote in hoping that the Lafayette police department takes over this space due to, “police equipment parked in the median and one further down the street toward Jack-in-the-Box.” Check out the photo below and you can see this is no exaggeration.
