COFFEE CLOSE-UPS Peet’s Tea & Coffee is to open a new store in the old A’Cuppa Tea space on the corner of College and Alcatraz Avenues, no doubt sending shivers down the spines of Cole Coffee aficionados which is at the other end of the block at 2007 College. It will be the ninth Berkeley store for Peet’s which was founded in the city in 1966. As we reported in July, A’Cuppa Tea is shunting down to 2992 College in the Elmwood, into one of the spaces formerly occupied by H. Tulanian & Sons Oriental Rug Cleaning & Repair.
SOLANO MOVES Rumor has it an independent pharmacy is to move into the former Three Goddesses dance studio at 1831 Solano, next door to the still vacant Front Row video store. Details when we have them.
BEAUTY BLITZ Aloe-cucumber hydration or chocolate-mint dream facials are available at the eco-organic Spa Organica that opened this summer at 884 Colusa Avenue. The spa uses only organic, vegan and eco-friendly products and offers make-up services, waxing, massage, and spa parties too (hat tip: Wendy Cohen).
NEW FLAVORS A Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting ceremony was held last week to mark the official opening of Indian restaurant Zaika at 2050 University Avenue in the historic Koerber Building. The eatery, which began serving customers on August 4, offers “authentic cuisine from the Indian sub-continent” and prides itself on being kid- and student-friendly. Sports games are shown on a big flat screen TV.
HOMERIC CUISINE Troy, a new Greek restaurant in the Elmwood at 2985 College, has taken over the Marc 49 wine bar space, which itself superseded Flame Burger only last year. The space has seen rapid turnover of late. Troy specializes in wraps, such as the Melitzano with grilled eggplant, red pepper and capers, as well as the expected Souvlakis, and a range of entrées.
WALK THE WALK Mark your calendars: A host of restaurants and food businesses are taking part in the Solano Avenue Restaurant Walk on Tuesday, October 4th, 6-9pm. The line-up includes Bistro 1491, The Cape Cod, iScream!, Jerusalem Organic Kitchen, Solano Grill & Bar, Timbao and The Xocolate Bar. Tickets cost $20 and are available by calling organizers Albany and West Berkeley Lions Club on 510-401 7759.
