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What will it look like?
Some folks are getting nervous that Little Tokyo could be changing too rapidly, too fast. The smallish sub-neighborhood is bordered by big development (particularly in the Arts District) says LA Downtown News, but has managed to maintain much of its charm throughout the years. Now with the coming regional connector — set to open in 2021 — more eyes than ever are on the area.
That has led to some tough conversations among locals and civic leaders about what Little Tokyo wants to (and can) be. Places like the long-running Fugetsu-Do are worried that change could force them out, while others have begun taking new deals with development firms to get in on new storefront space before things really get out of control. It’s a tightrope, and one that many, many Downtown restaurants, bars, and candy shops are forced to walk every day.
Barcode to Garden Grove
It’s almost time for Barcode to come alive in Garden Grove. The throwback restaurant will offer games and tons of nostalgia (particularly for ‘80s and ‘90s kids) right on Main Street in Downtown, along with a collection of big-flavored bites by the same team responsible for McFadden Public Market in Santa Ana. The official opening is next week at 12926 Main St., Garden Grove.
The real Tail o’ the Pup is gone
LA Magazine has sad news on the Tail o’ the Pup saga today. Apparently plans to bring the official hot dog stand back to life have been scuttled, so instead the company that bought the thing (and is bringing a collection of standalone Tail o’ the Pup restaurants to LA) is donating it to the Valley Relics Museum. All in all, not a bad place for a part of restaurant history to end up.
Alex returns
One of the year’s most popular charity events, L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade, is back. The annual fundraiser takes places at UCLA and always features some of the best culinary talent, with this year’s event going down Saturday, September 9. Tickets are now on sale.
Soh comes to life
Upscale Pasadena Korean barbecue restaurant Soh Grill House has opened. The place has been quietly serving for a few weeks, all from some pretty modern digs along Raymond Ave.
Block party time
The Social List is a hit in Long Beach. The popular spot for cocktails and modern European favorites is doing their annual block party on Saturday, June 17 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Expect live music, craft beer, food, and more.
Rossoblu expands hours
There’s even more time to experience Rossoblu now, as the restaurant is set to expand into Tuesday service as of tonight. That must mean the place is doing well (and finding its footing in a new kitchen and new space), so now could be the time to get in without the big crowds.
