Name announced for new Davis diner
Also: updates on Chipotle, Ding How, UMe Tea and Pho Yummy
Happy Sunday! Just a short column today to keep you in the know.
Last month, I announced the former owner of Cindy’s Kow Thai had signed a lease for the old Black Bear Diner spot at 255 Second St. in Davis. Now, we know what it will be called: Butter & Basil.
“A new name, the same warm hospitality, and delicious food you know and love,” owner Jerry Umnartyutithum said in a social media post. “We are planning to open in early September, and can’t wait to welcome everyone back.”
It said it will serve “delicious, traditional-style cooking,” featuring classic breakfasts, juicy burgers, fresh sandwiches, homemade pies, delicious cakes, premium coffee, and authentic Thai food.
The new location is 4,300 square feet, more than twice the size of the former Cindy’s, which operated from 1973 to 2022 at 4823 Chiles Road. It was a regular diner for the bulk of its existence. In its later years, under Umnartyutithum’s ownership, it changed into a Thai restaurant in the evenings. That 2,100-square-foot building was torn down to make way for a Chipotle, which could open as soon as this month.
He operates another Thai eatery, Thai Terrace, at 1596 Howe Ave. in Sacramento. Some former Davis regulars make the trip to eat there.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for all your support over the years,” he said. “Your encouragement has made this new chapter possible, and we look forward to seeing familiar faces and meeting new friends very soon.”
