(Rendering of The Model Bakery in Walnut Creek by Vonsaal Design Build)

A staple of Napa Valley's culinary scene, The Model Bakery, is set to make its East Bay debut in Walnut Creek's oldest building at 1315 N. Main Street. Anticipated to open in early summer, the iconic bakery will feature the Mitchell family's acclaimed English muffins, breads, and pastries.  

 

Designed by artist and craftsman Richard Von Saal, the building’s renovation reflects its early 1900s heritage, incorporating signature black & white tiles and wall murals with striking elements like a chandelier crafted from bespoke baking utensils, and walnut tables curated from trees in Rutherford. Foodies can watch The Model Bakery's artisan baking process up close through a big window facing the street. 

 

More good news for the brunch crowd. After much delay, The Breakfast Club at Midtown has opened at Ygnacio Plaza, and Pleasant Hill’s popular Asian-fusion breakfast spot, The Hangout, is coming to Rossmoor Shopping Center. 

Sweet Maple, renowned for "Millionaire's Bacon," is opening in Walnut Creek at 1523 Giammona Street. Launched in San Francisco in 2010, Sweet Maple's baked, brown sugar and cayenne glazed “millionaire’s bacon” is even a registered trademark. 

Move over Subway, Jersey Mike’s is joining the lunchtime sandwich scene. Now open at 1280 Newell Plaza, their menu boasts cheesesteaks and an array of cold subs. A second shop is in the works at Ygnacio Plaza.  

Famous for grab-and-go, boldly flavored fried chicken, Wingstop, may soon be spicing things up at Newell Promenade shopping center, across the street from Kaiser.  

 

Chef Michael & Jacquelyn Baker, the dynamic duo behind the new neighborhood eatery, Pizzalina, have transformed the former Sorrento's space into a modern taproom. First started in San Anselmo, their menu features tasty salt & pepper wings, pastas, and artisan pizzas. 

Down the street, Hops & Scotch owners Baldeep & Gurpreet Sangha opened a new Roman-style pizzeria at the Contra Costa Centre off Treat. Bill & Bali’s is a passion project for the two brothers, whose 'pizza al taglio’ is getting rave reviews.

 

A Midwest gem with over 125 locations, Handel’s Ice Cream is setting up shop near Walnut Creek’s downtown cinemas at 1273 Locust Street. Known for its creamy frozen yogurt, custard, and vegan soft-serve, San Francisco-based Easy Breezy Frozen Yogurt is joining the mix on Main Street near Dumpling Hours.

 

Victor Abu-Ghaben & Sofia Hanan are working on something new. Partners in World Famous Hot Boys and LITA Walnut Creek, the brother-sister team plan to transform1535 Bonanza Street into Stereo 41, a new restaurant with outdoor seating and DJ booth. Details on the food and beverage lineup are still under wraps. Stay tuned.

 

Cholita Linda, a name synonymous with Latin American food and killer fried fish tacos, is open at Broadway Plaza. Walnut Creek is the fourth location for Vanessa Chavez and Murat Sozeri, who got their start at the Jack London Square Farmers Market. 

 

A new community social spot is taking shape in Walnut Creek’s Buena Vista neighborhood. John & Jennifer Gilmore are bringing their signature coffee drinks and plant-based menu to the former Larkey Market. Look for a third café by Rooted Coffee at 2800 Larkey Lane. 

Guess what? There's more to come. Keep an eye out for our next Talk of the Town column. For 15 years, it's been a beloved local read. If you have news to share, reach out at [email protected] or via Instagram.