Welcome to Meanwhile, In SGV a regular feature in which TC, our fearless leader in all things San Gabriel Valley, brings word of restaurant openings, closings, and other unsung, curious neighborhood goings on.
1) San Gabriel: In the 90s, Taiwan's Quickly milk tea franchise proliferated. However, due to knock-offs and quality issues, Quickly saw its reputation sink...quickly. Since mid-Y2K, Taiwan has been all about Chatime, a chain in 80 cities, 24 countries, and currently aiming for 1000 franchises. California's first Chatime just opened at Prospect Plaza, and is running a buy one get free boba milk tea special. Due to the PCB scare, all bobas pass SGS inspection before exportation.
2) Alhambra: Hot Red Bus has hit a snafu in its beer and wine license acquisition because the ABC says enough regional licenses have been granted. The Indian-Anglo fish and chips house is filing a petition and needs locals to sign so they may resubmit their application. 31 E Main St.
3) San Gabriel: Hong Kong Kitchen ceased to operate on December 29. The notice to customers on the door lists no tentative relocation destination. 301 W. Valley Blvd. #115
4) Rosemead: Chengdu Taste is targeting a February opening date for its second location. It will be in the city of Rosemead, still on Valley Blvd.
5) San Gabriel: Sharing the same plaza as Chatime and Hong Kong Kitchen above, Ox House is now at the old Dragon Mark location. Management advises this is Dongbei food, and they're currently offering $5 lunch specials. 301 W Valley Blvd. #110
· All Meanwhile, In The SGV Coverage [~ELA~]
