La Fiesta Square, Lafayette
Last year we learned that the women’s boutique Specialtees Outlet relocated back to their main La Fiesta Square spot next to Mangia Ristorante Pizzeria in Lafayette and we have now learned from the owner that Specialtees, which has been in business since 1976, will close at the end of the year. Check out their website here.
3515 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette
Thanks to a reader for sending word that Westamerica Bank on Mt. Diablo Blvd. in Lafayette is closing this branch on May 19th. A sign in the window notes that, “all branch accounts and loans will automatically transfer to our Walnut Creek branch”.
155 Railroad Ave, Danville
Thanks to a reader who sent word that House of Games closed in Danville back in February. Check out Black Diamond Games in Concord for a similar selection.
411 Hartz Ave, Danville
The New York-based clothing store J.McLaughlin is coming soon to Hartz Ave. in Danville where Enchanted Florist & Gifts used to be, next to the historic Danville Hotel where Basque Boulangerie Cafe is located. Check out the history of J.McLaughlin here and see their online selection here. The closest Bay Area store is currently in Palo Alto.
Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek
Check out the new Old Navy storefront at Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek. It has an interesting white background with blue slats design in front that changes the look depending where you are. They will be opening next Saturday April 15th.
2022 Salvio St, Concord
It’s the end of an era as Concord Jewelers is set to close April 1st. This family-owned business has been in the same family for over 30 years, and the store has been in the same location since 1946 and the same street since 1907! Check out their website here where they may still sell some pieces online.
According to a newspaper article taped to the wall, it was founded by Charles W. Thissell (one of the first Concord photographers) in 1907 where in addition to selling jewelry and repairing watches, also sold Edison phonographs and Victor talking machines.
Side note: This is one of my favorite photographs after converting the iPhone 6s color image to black and white using the Silver Efex Pro 2 Nik plugin. The checkerboard flooring, vertical lines at the edges and glass square tiles combined with the old style lettering on the window/door really makes this pop. Farewell Concord Jewelers!
1561 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek
In order to make room for Lettuce expanding in downtown Walnut Creek, the home theater installer Pro Home Systems has relocated right next door.
178 East Prospect, Danville
I remember when the men’s clothing store Pelican Rock opened in downtown Walnut Creek about 5 years ago. That’s where I first learned about Vineyard Vines clothing, which later opened a store in downtown Walnut Creek. A couple of years ago they relocated to a great looking spot in Danville but unfortunately they have now closed.
3416 Mt Diablo Blvd, Lafayette
CG Designs, formerly Taylor & Jacobson, has opened in the El Diablo Forge building in Lafayette on Mt. Diablo Blvd. Check out their website here.
100 School St, Danville
From the owner of Laptop Lounge in Walnut Creek comes a new coworking space called Victory Workspace, located in the historic Shuey Podva house on Hartz. Ave. in Danville. Check out their memberships here, hourly meeting room and event space rentals here and upcoming events here.