A slew of key Downtown establishments are getting together to push Start Up San Jose. The goal of this event is to fill up vacant retail space in Downtown San Jose, which will create a more vibrant and safe Downtown. The event is being championed by Councilmember Sam Liccardo, along with NextSpace and SJMADE. A vacant floor space at 75 E. Santa Clara Street is going to be brimming with San Jose entrepreneurs tomorrow and Friday. You will be able to swing by and check out some Moveable Feast food trucks, local products from SJMADE vendors, grab Barefoot coffee, or even work for a bit in a coworking space hosted by NextSpace. At night you will even have an assortment of beers to sample thanks to Beerwalk.
Next door is a really slick assortment of local vendors at Sperry Station, a new project that is well worth checking out. For more information click here.
Showing posts with label new san jose retail. Show all posts
Showing posts with label new san jose retail. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
New Marshalls Coming to Village Oaks
Village Oaks is a large retail destination planned for South San Jose, off of Cottle Road and Great Oaks Parkway. They have just announced that Marshalls will be a 23,000 sqft anchor tenant in the complex, which will have over 300,000 sqft of retail. There will also be a massive 140,000 sqft Target, a Safeway, Ulta Beauty, Chase Bank, Total Woman Gym & Spa, Five Guys, and Panera Bread, and several other tenants.
The smaller tenants will be arranged along a narrow street, making the project more walkable and Downtownish (think Rivermark in Santa Clara). I can't say that I'm terribly excited about the tenant list so far, but at least the configuration should be good and the new neighborhood--which also includes 2,900 housing units--will be accessible by transit.
Source: SVBJ
The smaller tenants will be arranged along a narrow street, making the project more walkable and Downtownish (think Rivermark in Santa Clara). I can't say that I'm terribly excited about the tenant list so far, but at least the configuration should be good and the new neighborhood--which also includes 2,900 housing units--will be accessible by transit.
Source: SVBJ
Monday, December 3, 2012
The Meridian Mixed-Use Project Has Broken Ground!
Barry Swenson and Republic Urban Properties have broken ground on the Meridian project in Midtown San Jose. This is going to be a massive project for the area with 218 apartments, a park, and 15,800 sqft of pedestrian-oriented retail divided into 8 different units. The corner retail unit seems to be reserved for a restaurant. Total price tag is going to clock in at $68M.
While it only rises to 5-stories, it will add quite a bit of density to Midtown and help better connect the Downtown San Jose area with Santana Row. Another bonus is that this project is close to transit.
Build out is going to take 2 years and one of our readers that lives across the street has reported that most of the site has already been leveled, including the Meyer Appliance building.
Sources: SJBJ, Heather
While it only rises to 5-stories, it will add quite a bit of density to Midtown and help better connect the Downtown San Jose area with Santana Row. Another bonus is that this project is close to transit.
Build out is going to take 2 years and one of our readers that lives across the street has reported that most of the site has already been leveled, including the Meyer Appliance building.
Sources: SJBJ, Heather
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Madewell Coming to Santana Row
First off, I have to say the people decorating Santana Row really outdid themselves this holiday season, including the residents that have decorated their balconies. It looks incredible... even better than previous years. Every inch is lit up.
Now for the updates, Madewell is moving into a 3,500 sqft section of what was the old H&M. The company is a fashion forward American brand for women and will be the first store in the South Bay.
Next to Madewell will be a 2,000 sqft boutique for Splendid, another clothing store except this one is for the whole family. This will also be the very first one in the South Bay.
A couple existing stores are planning to renovate for 2013. Gucci is completely redoing the interior and and the facade outside. Tommy Bahama is doing a full renovation as well.
Lastly, Veggie Grill and Lavazza are now open. I have not tried Veggie Grill yet, but I did get to sample tons of food and coffee at Lavazza and have to say the quality is very high. I especially liked their espresso "desserts" including one with gratuitous amounts of nutella. I know we all like our indie coffee shops, but this one is worth checking out as it has many items you can't find anywhere else.

Now for the updates, Madewell is moving into a 3,500 sqft section of what was the old H&M. The company is a fashion forward American brand for women and will be the first store in the South Bay.
Next to Madewell will be a 2,000 sqft boutique for Splendid, another clothing store except this one is for the whole family. This will also be the very first one in the South Bay.
A couple existing stores are planning to renovate for 2013. Gucci is completely redoing the interior and and the facade outside. Tommy Bahama is doing a full renovation as well.
Lastly, Veggie Grill and Lavazza are now open. I have not tried Veggie Grill yet, but I did get to sample tons of food and coffee at Lavazza and have to say the quality is very high. I especially liked their espresso "desserts" including one with gratuitous amounts of nutella. I know we all like our indie coffee shops, but this one is worth checking out as it has many items you can't find anywhere else.
Santana Row Announces New Retailers, Renovations and the Grand Opening of Two Restaurants
Celebrating a Decade in Silicon Valley, the Premier Shopping and Dining Destination Continues to Draw Visitors with its Fresh Mix of Shops and Eateries
San Jose, CA (Nov. 15, 2012) – Ten years after opening Silicon Valley’s most exciting lifestyle destination, Santana Row continues to evolve with a lineup of unique retailers and restaurants that entice visitors to shop and dine. The stores and eateries represent new concepts in the Bay Area, some choosing to make their first foray into Northern California at Santana Row.
Madewell, an iconic American retailer as well as a brand coveted by fashion conscious women and men, is scheduled to open in Spring, 2013. The 3,500 square-foot shop will occupy a portion of the space that was the former H&M store before its recent move to a larger building. Madewell, established in 1937 as a dry goods emporium, will offer a wide range of effortlessly cool pieces. Chic yet comfy apparel includes soft chambray shirts, broken-in tees, leather boots, accessories and bags. Madewell’s denim bar serves a menu of current styles, from skinny to bootcut, boyfriend to capri.
Splendid, another label noted for its informal stylishness, is slated to open a 2,000 square-foot boutique next to Madewell in late spring. Known for its luxuriously soft tops and T-shirts, the offerings for men, women and children are a perfect fit for Silicon Valley: richly casual.
On the restaurant scene, the recently opened Lavazza Espression serves specialty Italian coffee drinks, freshly baked goods and savory Panini sandwiches, pastas, pizzas and salads. The cafe opened on Oct. 30 on the first floor of 300 Santana Row. It is the first location on the West Coast.
Veggie Grill, the popular fast-casual restaurant with a menu of delicious vegetarian choices opened on Nov. 8 at 3055 Olin Ave. Signature items include the Santa Fe Crispy Chickin’ Sandwich, All Hail Kale Salad and Sweetheart Fries. This is Veggie Grill’s first Northern California location.
“Splendid and Madewell represent the new generation at Santana Row,” said Jeff Kreshek, vice president of West Coast leasing for Federal Realty. “As an A-level property we are able to provide a destination that is an escape into the extraordinary. Santana Row is known for its diverse offerings both in shopping and dining. We are able to maintain our relevance by evolving with cutting edge tenants who provide the experience of a surprise around every corner.”
Madewell, Splendid, Lavazza Espression and Veggie Grill join Icebreaker Touchlab, Drybar, kate spade new york and H&M’s 26,000 square foot expansion and relocation as recent additions to the exciting lineup at Santana Row. The destination center strives to give customers a tempting mix of unique stores and restaurants.
Renovations on the horizon
Gucci, the luxury brand which recently marked a decade at Santana Row, will undergo a complete interior remodel along with façade enhancement beginning in the summer 2013. The work will be completed in time for the 2013 holiday season.
Also undergoing a renovation next year is Tommy Bahama, purveyor of island lifestyles and maker of clothing and accessories that reflect island ambiance.
“We are thrilled to see the long term commitment to and reinvestment in Santana Row by Gucci, Tommy Bahama and H&M,” said Jan Sweetnam, Vice President and West Coast Chief Operating Officer, Federal Realty Investment Trust. “This customer focus, along with the addition of new exciting merchants, keeps Santana Row fresh and is an important part of how we serve the community.”
Monday, October 22, 2012
Japanese Retailer Muji Coming Downtown!
You may want to sit down for this. Downtown San Jose actually beat out Santana Row for a premier flagship retailer.
Muji is a Japanese home goods store that is known for a minimalist design. Their products are primarily aimed at urban dwellers, especially those with limited space that are living in high-density apartments or condos.
They are planning on building a flagship 7,000 sqft store at the Fairmont Annex, in the space where the preview center for 360 Residences used to be several years ago.
Currently there are only three US stores in existence like this one, and all of them are in Manhattan. They are only planning to build out two stores on the West Coast for now, one in San Francisco and the other is this one.
To say this is a huge win for Downtown San Jose would be an understatement. On Mondays I like to post development news. There are a few new massive apartment and office projects that were just announced, and I completely pushed those aside for this.
No official opening date has been set, but they are shooting for Spring. Godspeed.
Source: SJBJ

Muji is a Japanese home goods store that is known for a minimalist design. Their products are primarily aimed at urban dwellers, especially those with limited space that are living in high-density apartments or condos.
They are planning on building a flagship 7,000 sqft store at the Fairmont Annex, in the space where the preview center for 360 Residences used to be several years ago.
Currently there are only three US stores in existence like this one, and all of them are in Manhattan. They are only planning to build out two stores on the West Coast for now, one in San Francisco and the other is this one.
To say this is a huge win for Downtown San Jose would be an understatement. On Mondays I like to post development news. There are a few new massive apartment and office projects that were just announced, and I completely pushed those aside for this.
No official opening date has been set, but they are shooting for Spring. Godspeed.
Source: SJBJ
Thursday, September 6, 2012
LA Boxing Coming to West San Jose
Five new boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts gyms are coming to Silicon Valley and the first will be in West Park Plaza on the corner of Winchester and Payne where LA Boxing is signing a 10 year lease for 4,200 square feet. The other four locations will be in Cupertino, Sunnyvale, Milpitas, and Palo Alto.
Source: SJBJ



Source: SJBJ
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Icrebreaker Opens Today in Santana Row
WHAT: Icebreaker, the New Zealand company that pioneered the merino wool adventure apparel category, today announced it will open on Santana Row on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012.
Peninsula and South Bay fitness enthusiasts, from runners to cyclists to yogis, will rejoice in a new 1,500 sq. ft. TouchLab store.
Wool may not be the typical fabric choice for Bay Area dwellers, but Icebreaker apparel is not made from any ordinary sheep. Handpicked from New Zealand merinos based in the Southern Alps, enduring temperatures between -4 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and 95 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, Icebreaker apparel offers unique insulating and cooling properties in a luxuriously soft format that won't irritate the skin.
The San Jose TouchLab store will feature Icebreaker's complete line of pure merino wool apparel, including its Outdoor, Running, Travel, Kids, Underwear and City collections and Socks and Accessories, all made from handpicked merino wool born in the Southern Alps of New Zealand. To celebrate the opening, Icebreaker will reveal its new Fall 2012 line.
WHERE: 356 Santana Row
San Jose, CA 95128
HOURS: Monday through Thursday, 10 am to 9 pm
Friday and Saturday, 10 am to 10 pm
Sunday, 11 am to 6 pm
ABOUT: Launched in 1994, Icebreaker was the first company in the world to develop a merino wool layering system for the outdoors. It was also the first outdoor apparel company in the world to source merino directly from growers, a system it began in 1997. Icebreaker merino clothing for the outdoors, technical sports and lifestyle includes underwear, mid layer garments, outerwear, socks and accessories for men, women and children. Icebreaker is based in Wellington, New Zealand, and is sold in more than 3000 stores in 43 countries.
Icebreaker opened its first California TouchLab store in San Francisco in November 2011. The company has three other US TouchLabs: one in Portland, Oregon (home of its US headquarters), and two in New York City – Soho and the Meatpacking District. In Canada, there are TouchLabs in Vancouver, British Columbia, and in Montréal, Canada.
See icebreaker.com for more information about Icebreaker, and jeremymoon.me for more information on Icebreaker founder and CEO Jeremy Moon.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
New Retail Coming to Santana Row
It looks like many new additions are coming to Santana Row this year. Two new retailers have just been announced. Lavazza Espression is a high-end espresso shop that will be added near the office lobby in the 300 building (same building with The Yard House). Drybar will setup shop across from Hotel Valencia and offer women a shampoo and hair styling for $35. A press release with more information for both is below.
Also slated for Santana Row this year: H&M expansion into the former Border's Store, Kate Spade New York, Icebreaker TouchLab, Clary Sage Organics and The Veggie Grill (a very highly-rated vegetarian restaurant replacing Wahoo's).
***************************************

Coming to Santana Row:
Drybar, a Blowouts Only Salon, and Lavazza
Espression, an Italian Coffee Shop
San Jose, CA (May 30, 2012) - Drybar, a buzzed about shampoo and blow dry-only salon and
Lavazza Espression, an Italy-based coffee shop, are the newest additions opening at Santana
Row. They're the most recent tenants to sign on at the Bay Area's most dynamic shopping and
dining destination.
Drybar is slated to open this summer at 377 Santana Row, across the street from Park
Valencia. The salon started a revolutionary concept by offering women a shampoo and blow-dry
styling for a flat rate of $35 and the motto, "No cuts. No color. Just blowouts."
The founder, Alli Webb, opened the first salon in Brentwood (in L.A.) and Drybar has since
grown to 14 locations across the country. Celebrity regulars include Jennifer Love Hewitt,
Amanda Bynes, Mary Steenburgen, Maria Shriver and Rose McGowan, who liked the concept
so much that she became an investor.
Company CEO is Webb's brother, Michael Landau, a former brand marketing manager for
Yahoo!
The 1,499 square foot location at Santana Row features all the whimsical components that
make Drybar such a hit: bright yellow ionic hair dryers that hang from ceiling fixtures and a
menu of blowout styles named after cocktails. Ask for a Mai Tai and you'll get a sexy beach look.
The Manhattan is a sleek city blowout. They're served with complimentary wine, champagne,
coffee or tea.
Lavazza Espression is scheduled to open this fall at 300 Santana Row next to Hastens at the
entrance of the office lobby. Lavazza's history started more than 110 years ago when founder
Luigi Lavazza opened a small grocery store in Turin. He is credited with inventing the concept of
the blend, the art of mixing coffee of different origins to obtain a flavorful brew.
Lavazza, known as Italy's favorite coffee since 2007, is expanding its presence around the world
with a contemporary and innovative approach to coffee with Espression cafes, a place where
consumers can experience an extraordinary blend of coffee creations and fresh food in an
atmosphere of award-winning design. Innovation and research are two essential ingredients for
Espression. The menu ranges from the very best of Italian traditional coffee drinks coffee and a
rich menu offering featuring fresh bakery goods, panini sandwiches, chocolate drinks and
gelato. The chain's signature atmosphere is the embodiment of eclectic creativity, characterized
by a sophisticated ambience of the best in Italian design.
Drybar and Lavazza join kate spade New York, Icebreaker TouchLab, Clary Sage Organics and
The Veggie Grill as the newest additions to Santana Row. Meanwhile, retailer H&M is tripling its
space by moving to the 26,000 square-foot location formerly occupied by Borders Books. The
move to the corner spot on Olin Avenue and Santana Row is expected in the fall and means the
store will be large enough to also carry apparel and accessories for men and children.
Also slated for Santana Row this year: H&M expansion into the former Border's Store, Kate Spade New York, Icebreaker TouchLab, Clary Sage Organics and The Veggie Grill (a very highly-rated vegetarian restaurant replacing Wahoo's).
***************************************
Coming to Santana Row:
Drybar, a Blowouts Only Salon, and Lavazza
Espression, an Italian Coffee Shop
San Jose, CA (May 30, 2012) - Drybar, a buzzed about shampoo and blow dry-only salon and
Lavazza Espression, an Italy-based coffee shop, are the newest additions opening at Santana
Row. They're the most recent tenants to sign on at the Bay Area's most dynamic shopping and
dining destination.
Drybar is slated to open this summer at 377 Santana Row, across the street from Park
Valencia. The salon started a revolutionary concept by offering women a shampoo and blow-dry
styling for a flat rate of $35 and the motto, "No cuts. No color. Just blowouts."
The founder, Alli Webb, opened the first salon in Brentwood (in L.A.) and Drybar has since
grown to 14 locations across the country. Celebrity regulars include Jennifer Love Hewitt,
Amanda Bynes, Mary Steenburgen, Maria Shriver and Rose McGowan, who liked the concept
so much that she became an investor.
Company CEO is Webb's brother, Michael Landau, a former brand marketing manager for
Yahoo!
The 1,499 square foot location at Santana Row features all the whimsical components that
make Drybar such a hit: bright yellow ionic hair dryers that hang from ceiling fixtures and a
menu of blowout styles named after cocktails. Ask for a Mai Tai and you'll get a sexy beach look.
The Manhattan is a sleek city blowout. They're served with complimentary wine, champagne,
coffee or tea.
Lavazza Espression is scheduled to open this fall at 300 Santana Row next to Hastens at the
entrance of the office lobby. Lavazza's history started more than 110 years ago when founder
Luigi Lavazza opened a small grocery store in Turin. He is credited with inventing the concept of
the blend, the art of mixing coffee of different origins to obtain a flavorful brew.
Lavazza, known as Italy's favorite coffee since 2007, is expanding its presence around the world
with a contemporary and innovative approach to coffee with Espression cafes, a place where
consumers can experience an extraordinary blend of coffee creations and fresh food in an
atmosphere of award-winning design. Innovation and research are two essential ingredients for
Espression. The menu ranges from the very best of Italian traditional coffee drinks coffee and a
rich menu offering featuring fresh bakery goods, panini sandwiches, chocolate drinks and
gelato. The chain's signature atmosphere is the embodiment of eclectic creativity, characterized
by a sophisticated ambience of the best in Italian design.
Drybar and Lavazza join kate spade New York, Icebreaker TouchLab, Clary Sage Organics and
The Veggie Grill as the newest additions to Santana Row. Meanwhile, retailer H&M is tripling its
space by moving to the 26,000 square-foot location formerly occupied by Borders Books. The
move to the corner spot on Olin Avenue and Santana Row is expected in the fall and means the
store will be large enough to also carry apparel and accessories for men and children.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Almaden Ranch Development
I'm going to start off by saying that I think we're going to have some mixed opinions on this one. Last month the city council approved a 350,000 sqft "big box" retail development between Oakridge Mall and Almaden Plaza. It is a $30-50M project that is not being subsidized. The only rumored tenant so far is a Dick's Sporting Goods.
Now my first question is, what other "big box" tenants or chain restaurants could they possibly add there that don't already exist in the area? If you look at the map below, every chain you can imagine already exists somewhere in the vicinity. There are already millions of square feet of car-oriented retail in the area.
My second question is... in today's economy is it better to snatch the opportunity for a development such as this one or would it have been better to wait for a better use of this acreage? I would have preferred a mixed use development with housing, office, and local retail that is pedestrian friendly. This seems like a great place for an urban village. It's a tough call... take the tax money now or sit on empty land hoping for a better proposal in the future.
Source: SJBJ

Now my first question is, what other "big box" tenants or chain restaurants could they possibly add there that don't already exist in the area? If you look at the map below, every chain you can imagine already exists somewhere in the vicinity. There are already millions of square feet of car-oriented retail in the area.
My second question is... in today's economy is it better to snatch the opportunity for a development such as this one or would it have been better to wait for a better use of this acreage? I would have preferred a mixed use development with housing, office, and local retail that is pedestrian friendly. This seems like a great place for an urban village. It's a tough call... take the tax money now or sit on empty land hoping for a better proposal in the future.
Source: SJBJ
Sunday, September 25, 2011
New Orchard Supply Opens in South San Jose
Orchard Supply is one of the oldest San Jose companies still around. It was here long before there was even a semblance of Silicon Valley. It looks like they are going back to their roots and are being spun off from their parent, Sears. They are also launching a new concept store right here in South San Jose, at the corner of Meridian and Blossom Hill in Princeton Plaza (formerly a Mervyn's). The 60,000 sqft space will have a new layout, canopy facade, and even clothing.
For more info, click here.
For more info, click here.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
The Usuals is Coming to The San Pedro Square Market!
From The Usuals Newsletter:
It's true. The Usuals is expanding! We are soft opening this weekend, 9/17-9/18, at San Pedro Square Market during the SJMADE X SJEATS event.
Please welcome Showroom San Jose to the list of merchants at this exciting new downtown San Jose project. Because of the growing number of graphic t-shirt enthusiasts who shop at The Usuals, the Showroom is a t-shirt bar that showcases a larger selection of tees, accessories, art, and more! This weekend we're testing-out our spot before our grand opening in October. It's exciting times, friends. Thanks to all of you for the support! Come-by and say hello.
Special thanks to Fernando 'FORCE 129' for designing and installing our new Showroom sign! Check him out at: www.force129.com.

SJMADE X SJEATS
Saturday, September 17th :: 11a-7p
Sunday, September 18th :: 11a-7p
San Pedro Square Market
87 N. San Pedro Street
Downtown San Jose
San Jose Made (SJMADE) is a vendor fair where local San Jose makers, labels, brands, and artists showcase and sell current projects and goods.
For the Fall 2011 installation of SJMADE, we will be at San Pedro Square Marketin Downtown San Jose. For two days, September 17th and 18th, our SJMADE vendors will be showcasing goods alongside various San Pedro Square Market merchants.
SATURDAY, 9/17 (11a to 3p)
An the Go
Eat on Monday
MoBowl
MoGo BBQ
O Mi Ninja
Sanguchon
Soulnese
Treatbot
SUNDAY, 9/18 (11a to 3p)
BBQ Kalbi
House of Siam
Le Bon
Louisiana Territory
Iz It
Sam's Chowdermobile
Soulnese
Saturday, 9/17
11:30a-12:30p :: Graywolf
1:00p-2:00p :: Jahirus, Backyard Rastafari Chants
2:30p-3:30p :: Never Right Now
4:00p-5:00p :: Sub Ren
5:30p-7:00p :: Vida Killz, Anya
Sunday, 9/18
2:30p-3:30p :: Pat Parra
4:00p-5:00p :: Never Right Now
Kori Thompson
Admission is completely FREE!!!!


Did you hear we are opening a new location?
Please welcome Showroom San Jose to the list of merchants at this exciting new downtown San Jose project. Because of the growing number of graphic t-shirt enthusiasts who shop at The Usuals, the Showroom is a t-shirt bar that showcases a larger selection of tees, accessories, art, and more! This weekend we're testing-out our spot before our grand opening in October. It's exciting times, friends. Thanks to all of you for the support! Come-by and say hello.
Special thanks to Fernando 'FORCE 129' for designing and installing our new Showroom sign! Check him out at: www.force129.com.
SJMADE X SJEATS
Saturday, September 17th :: 11a-7p
Sunday, September 18th :: 11a-7p
San Pedro Square Market
87 N. San Pedro Street
Downtown San Jose
San Jose Made (SJMADE) is a vendor fair where local San Jose makers, labels, brands, and artists showcase and sell current projects and goods.
For the Fall 2011 installation of SJMADE, we will be at San Pedro Square Marketin Downtown San Jose. For two days, September 17th and 18th, our SJMADE vendors will be showcasing goods alongside various San Pedro Square Market merchants.
SJEATS
SJEATS is serving lunch (11:00a-3:00p) with their arsenal of delicious gourmet food trucks. See the list of food trucks!
SATURDAY, 9/17 (11a to 3p)
An the Go
Eat on Monday
MoBowl
MoGo BBQ
O Mi Ninja
Sanguchon
Soulnese
Treatbot
SUNDAY, 9/18 (11a to 3p)
BBQ Kalbi
House of Siam
Le Bon
Louisiana Territory
Iz It
Sam's Chowdermobile
Soulnese
LIVE MUSIC IN THE MARKET COUTYARD
Saturday, 9/17
11:30a-12:30p :: Graywolf
1:00p-2:00p :: Jahirus, Backyard Rastafari Chants
2:30p-3:30p :: Never Right Now
4:00p-5:00p :: Sub Ren
5:30p-7:00p :: Vida Killz, Anya
Sunday, 9/18
2:30p-3:30p :: Pat Parra
4:00p-5:00p :: Never Right Now
LIVE PAINTING
Park Bench CollectiveKori Thompson
Admission is completely FREE!!!!
Thanks, and see you guys there!
THE USUALS
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Nothing Bundt Cakes Comes to Willow Glen!
Fresh from the Oven,
Nothing Bundt Cakes Debuts
in San Jose
Local bakery brings unique dessert concept to Willow
Glen area
San Jose, Calif., Aug. 22, 2011– One-of-a-kind
Nothing Bundt Cakes − purveyors of nostalgic yet refreshingly modern Bundt
cakes − is spreading its wholesome goodness to San Jose and the Willow Glen
community. The newest bakery is located in Dry Creek Center at 1702 Meridian
Ave. and will host several grand opening activities beginning August 24 and
continuing for several days.
Nothing Bundt Cakes
reintroduces an old family favorite – the Bundt cake - with a fresh, clean look
that appeals to all ages. Each cake features custom concept cake decorations
that are smart, contemporary and fun, customized to enhance any occasion.
Nothing Bundt Cakes offers customers a wide range of cake selections, from
Bundtlets – single serving cakes – to the larger Bundts that serve up to 18
people and tiered cakes, which serve up to 26 people.
Grand opening
celebrations include:
·
Wednesday, Aug. 24
o 11:30 a.m. to 12:30
p.m. – Ribbon cutting with the San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce with
Nothing Bundt Cakes local bakery owners, Angela and Rod Simas
·
Thursday, Aug. 25
o 4 to 7 p.m. – Wine
tasting with Mommy Juice Wines. Delicious Bundt cake samples will be available
for guests to pair with their wine, as well as an assortment of fine cheese and
artisan crackers
·
Friday, Aug. 26
o 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Child
Advocates of Silicon Valley Day, 20 percent of all proceeds benefit the
organization
·
Saturday, Aug. 27
o 10 a.m. – First 50
customers to make a purchase receive free cake for a year
“We are excited to
further enrich San Jose, Willow Glen and surrounding communities around our
bakery by bringing Nothing Bundt Cakes to the neighborhood,” said Angela Simas,
Nothing Bundt Cakes local bakery owner.
“Partnering with meaningful organizations here, including Child
Advocates of Silicon Valley, furthers our commitment and dedication to the city
in which we live and work.”
--more—
Fresh from the Oven, Nothing Bundt Cakes Debuts in San Jose
-- add one --
Made fresh daily
using only the finest ingredients available, Nothing Bundt Cakes combines great
taste and creative merchandising to appeal not only to taste buds but to all
five senses. Customers are greeted by the smell of freshly baked cakes the
minute they cross the store threshold. A soothing yet warm color palette meets
the eye with whimsical furniture and hand-painted signage reminiscent of
yesteryear but with a clean, fresh approach. The Nothing Bundt Cakes staff
instantly makes customers feel right at home with a friendly welcome.
“We’ve learned that Bundt
cakes hold a special place in the heart of consumers across the nation, as many
folks can remember a loved one baking a special Bundt cake just for them,” said
Dena Tripp, co-founder of Nothing Bundt Cakes. “Our franchisees are not only an
integral part our growth strategy, but they are also an integral part of
connecting to the community through the love of the handmade Bundt cake. We
look forward to a successful partnership and becoming part of this city.”
Nothing Bundt Cakes
is one of the nation’s few bakery/retail locations committed to the baking of Bundt
cakes. The bakery specializes in offering celebration solutions for moments
that matter and always enhancing their customers’ celebrations. Currently,
there are 40 signed franchise agreements, with 31 bakeries already open across nine
states. Founded in 1997, Nothing Bundt Cakes is headquartered in Las Vegas, NV.
For more information, please visit www.nothingbundtcakes.com.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Yogurtland is Coming Downtown
A brand new Yogurtland is coming to Downtown San Jose near SJSU at 125 E. San Carlos Street. Some of you may remember this as the old Gamestop space. Thanks to Arlene for the tip!
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Umpqua Bank Coming to San Jose
Oregon based Umpqua Bank is planning to open 6-8 locations in Silicon Valley, and the first will be a 3,000+ sqft branch in Downtown San Jose. With $11.5 billion in assets, they are actually much larger than most of the other business-oriented banks in Silicon Valley like Fremont Bank ($2.5B). They also have some unique marketing strategies such as free cappuccinos in their branches and handing out free treats from their own ice cream trucks. The Downtown San Jose branch should be open by early 2012.
For more info, pick up a copy of the San Jose Business Journal and turn to page 5 (sorry no hyperlink for this one).
For more info, pick up a copy of the San Jose Business Journal and turn to page 5 (sorry no hyperlink for this one).
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Froyo Delight is Now Open!
Today was Froyo Delight's first day open for business. I randomly stumbled upon this as I saw a line of people out the door as I was driving to a meeting. When I drove back to try it, they were sold out of yogurt but at least I did get to talk to one of the workers there. Froyo Delight is immediately next to Dac Phuc on Santa Clara Street (in fact I think they have the same owner). They have several varieties of frozen yogurt, smoothies, and espresso. Looked like a nice little shop.
They are open from 8am - 8pm every day, and for this week only all of the yogurt is free from 8am-noon! They also mentioned free parking in one of the 2 spaces in front of the adjacent dry cleaners building (which I think they own as well).
They are open from 8am - 8pm every day, and for this week only all of the yogurt is free from 8am-noon! They also mentioned free parking in one of the 2 spaces in front of the adjacent dry cleaners building (which I think they own as well).
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Retail Briefs: New H&M and Right Aid Stores Come to San Jose
The second H&M in San Jose is slated to open on May 5th at Oakridge (the 1st location is at Santana Row). They specialize in inexpensive designer clothing.
In addition, a brand new "customer world" format Rite Aid is opening on April 28th at 3111 McLaughlin Avenue. The spin on the new format seems to be a focus on health and wellness products.
Lastly, the Yard House is now open at Santana Row. Expect an astronomical selection of beers on tap and a very long wait to get a table or bar seat.
For more information click here.
In addition, a brand new "customer world" format Rite Aid is opening on April 28th at 3111 McLaughlin Avenue. The spin on the new format seems to be a focus on health and wellness products.
Lastly, the Yard House is now open at Santana Row. Expect an astronomical selection of beers on tap and a very long wait to get a table or bar seat.
For more information click here.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Rock Climbing is Coming to SoFA!
Let's start off the week with some good news. The remnants of Club WET in SoFA will soon become a 14,000 sqft Rock Climbing Gym called Touchtone. WET was frequently wrought with issues--such as fights and a few stabbings--that I think created a negative perception of the area. I'm pretty confident this will be a better use for the space and hopefully they can incorporate a little artsy SoFA character into it.
By the way, there used to be a Touchtone in Downtown San Jose. It was right next to Camera 12 and had what might have been the smallest rock wall in existence. No, seriously it was maybe 10 feet tall. I had to chuckle at it every time I walked by. The new SoFA Touchtone won't have that same problem as the climbing walls will be at least 35 feet tall.

By the way, there used to be a Touchtone in Downtown San Jose. It was right next to Camera 12 and had what might have been the smallest rock wall in existence. No, seriously it was maybe 10 feet tall. I had to chuckle at it every time I walked by. The new SoFA Touchtone won't have that same problem as the climbing walls will be at least 35 feet tall.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
New Stores Coming to Santana Row
In the latest San Jose Business Journal, 4 new Santana Row stores and one expansion were revealed:





- Electric Car Showroom
- 1,900 sqft
- Between BCBG Max Azria and Franco Uomo
- Furniture Retailer
- 3,610 sqft
- Next to The Container Store
- Gourmet Grocery Store
- 3,900 sqft
- Next to Lavande Nail Spa
- Women's Apparel Store
- 2,000 sqft
- Between Brooks Brothers and Straits
- Expanding from 675 sqft to 1,344 sqft
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Tesla is Coming to Santana Row!
Tesla may not have been able to relocate their offices and factory to North San Jose as originally planned, but they will have a presence here. The word just got out that they are planning to build a "store" at Santana Row! Instead of using dealers and 3rd parties, they are planning to sell cars directly to consumers much like an Apple store. They already have 30 of these worldwide that are either open already or near opening, and the closest one right now is the original in Menlo Park.
I imagine the first car they will sell at the store will be the Model S (pictured below), a $56k all electric vehicle with up to a 300 mile battery, 0-60 of 5.6 seconds, a 17 inch LCD touchscreen, and seating for up to 7 people. These will start shipping in late 2012.
This year Tesla will also announce the Model X, which is a crossover version built on the same platform as the Model S. Eventually they will also release a Model C (~$30k compact or midsize electric car) and a new roadster to replace their current $100k+ speed demon--which may transform into a 4-seat convertible in it's second life. While I'm a huge advocate of Downtown San Jose, I think Tesla made the right choice with Santana Row. Now please excuse me while I check my couch for some spare change.
I imagine the first car they will sell at the store will be the Model S (pictured below), a $56k all electric vehicle with up to a 300 mile battery, 0-60 of 5.6 seconds, a 17 inch LCD touchscreen, and seating for up to 7 people. These will start shipping in late 2012.
This year Tesla will also announce the Model X, which is a crossover version built on the same platform as the Model S. Eventually they will also release a Model C (~$30k compact or midsize electric car) and a new roadster to replace their current $100k+ speed demon--which may transform into a 4-seat convertible in it's second life. While I'm a huge advocate of Downtown San Jose, I think Tesla made the right choice with Santana Row. Now please excuse me while I check my couch for some spare change.
Friday, January 28, 2011
SJMADE One-Day Hyperlocal Retail Event!
San Jose Made
Saturday, January 29, 2011
1:00p - 7:00p
The Usuals will be there! We've got a prime location on the second floor mezzanine.
SJMADE will be at the vacant restaurant (formerly Spiedo) on the corner of W. Santa Clara St. and San Pedro St. in San Jose. For a full line-up and descriptions of participating vendors, check-out the SJMADE website:www.sanjosemade.com
Questions? Send us an email at: info@shoptheusuals.com. See you there!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)