Calicraft crafting a September debut
Also, news on Good Friends Hawaiian Poke, a new Davis wine bar, more bike-delivered coffee, an artists’ collective in Woodland, froyo in Winters, and live music support services
The owner of Calicraft Brewing Company led me on a tour last week of its site in The Davis Collection – where it will be the anchor restaurant. Blaine Landberg hopes to have a soft opening in early September. Developer Brixmor Property Group plans a Sept. 10 grand opening.
Calicraft will have 4,000 square feet of interior space and two outside patios that add up to another 4,000 square feet. Those seating areas – covered by shade sails – are separate, allowing rentals for special events. The outdoor space looks out onto the mall’s courtyard, which is lined by other restaurants. At the center of the courtyard will be a double berm covered by fake grass, which will likely become a popular play area for children.
The Davis Collection is on Russell Boulevard, between Anderson Road and Sycamore Lane in Davis. Nordstrom was the first new store to debut in the center on May 22. Last week I had a roundup of what was coming and when.
Landberg, who has three grown children, said Calicraft has always incorporated family-friendly environments into its spaces. A bonus is that this one is managed by the landlord.
“This location is exciting because … our space in Walnut Creek is literally in the middle of nowhere – in a business park. Same with Fairfield,” where it acquired Heretic Brewing and Distillery. It also has a craft cocktail lounge opening soon in downtown Walnut Creek.
“This is exciting, because you’re going to have all sorts of energy coming around you. We love being across the street from the (university),” Landberg said. “Especially with the rich history that you have of Davis and agriculture, and also specifically the beer-brewing industry and having … the premier brewing program (at UC Davis).”
Although it’s still deep into the construction phase, he’s pleased how the restaurant is coming together. Inside, the full bar will offer their beer, and cocktails from liquor made at its onsite distillery. The centerpiece bar fits 35 to 40 people, with seating on both sides. On one end will be a grab-and-go cooler for outside sales.
Landberg said Davis isn’t oversaturated with breweries like Sacramento, which has seen recent closures.