••• “A new piano-jazz restaurant and lounge called The Grand on State is coming to 1218 State Street (next to the Granada Theatre) in the former home of Namaste Indian Bistro, Bedda Mia, Mollie’s,” etc. “The concept centers on a grand piano as the focal point of the stage, with plans for live jazz performances, cocktails, and a full dining menu. […] The lease for the property is reportedly in the final stages of completion.” —Restaurant Guy
••• The revolving door of a space across from the County Courthouse at 129 E. Anapamu Street—formerly Café La Fonda, the Courthouse Tavern, Little Door, and so on— “may soon take on yet another identity—this time as a classic-style delicatessen named Noe Café. […] Noe Castro, who has owned the property for several years and also runs a local catering business with his brother [plans] to convert the site into an old-style delicatessen and diner [that] will focus on breakfast and lunch only, operating in a casual, diner-style format with counter service and straightforward classics. In the evenings, the space may occasionally be used for private events or wedding receptions.” —Restaurant Guy
••• The Sando Truck has decided to go catering-only:
After much thought, we’ve made the difficult decision that the Remaining October pop-ups will be our last with the trailer. With the unexpected closure of our Goleta location and the high cost of operating the truck it’s simply not financially sustainable to keep it going. Moving forward, we’ll be focusing on catering only while continuing to offer our Sando Packs for delivery and pickup. We’re incredibly grateful for all the love and support over the last year. It’s been amazing bringing this truck to life and sharing authentic Japanese Katsu Sandos with you. The trailer will also be for sale, and we’d consider selling the brand and business as well for the right person.
••• Carp Kitchen has closed. —805Foodie
••• Arnie’s, the rooftop bar coming to Linden Square, is now shooting to open in January. —Coastal View News
••• When Cookie Plug opens in Isla Vista, possibly on October 25, it will be called Sweet Hustle. —Noozhawk
••• The owners of Mel’s Lounge on W. Carrillo Street intend “to launch a new food concept called Jalisco Grill, which will operate inside Mel’s,” says Restaurant Guy. “With a fully renovated kitchen and a new chef, Mel’s will soon offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring dishes inspired by Jalisco-style Mexican cooking, known for hearty beef plates and traditional comfort foods.” P.S. That sign!
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Time is running out for the Thomas Keller restaurant at the Coral Casino to open in 2025 but as it is a Ty Warner thing 2027 might be a more appropriate target.
Anyone know what’s going on across from Mackenzie park?
Teddy’s from Carp
Ah, thank you! I have been wondering this too!
Remembering what 129 E. Anapamu street was when you first move to town was a way to date when you arrived. Tutti’s for me.
129 was vacant when I started watching it. Tutti’s ( The Bakery) spent a bundle no doubt and probably stretched things too taught for Tutti’s on Coast Village Road, loved that place.
Anyone else remember the Irene Davis Bakery?
129 E Anapamu opened as The Bakery and was one of many restaurants owned by Ray Klein ~ he owned Rocky Galentis, Kelly’s Corner and quite a few others. The manager that Ray brought in to replace the original managers of The Bakery was a woman named Susan Sullivan. Susan eventually left and opened up Tutties on Coast Village Rd with her husband. She was an incredible hard working, kind hearted woman.
Yes! I remember Susan, she is amazing.
Back in the late 1940’s and at least into the 1970’s it was the Irene Davis Bakery. They did general baked goods and also a lot of wedding cakes.
Susan Sullivan and Winston Sullivan ran Tutti’s and Susan was the brains and the chef of the whole operation. Unfortunately, Winston didn’t pay the rent timely and was a “screw-up” and that’s why Tutti’s was evicted and moved to Ventura, where Tuttini opened.
Nonsense. The owner wanted a chain restaurant in that space not a mom and pop operation. That is what happened. We lost a great restaurant.
Irene Davis Bakery. I worked there.