Hi,
I don't know if this is where to include this request but I'm disheartened by the complete lack of restaurants in Altadena, particularly for dinner.
Is there any way that while planning a co-op that you include a restaurant/cafe/bistro to the plan?
I'l bet you that you'd get good business, especially if it's a restaurant that is fresh, organic and easy for health conscious working folks.
Ellen
I could not agree MORE. Lincoln Crossing was supposed to solve this but our replacement developer screwed everything up. I'd like to suggest we approach Donna Star who used to run the South Lake Italian Kitchen. There were many Altadenans in her customer base. Ronnie's Automotive is for sale and some of the people making offers want to tear the antique building down.
We would have to find someone with serious bucks to make it happen, but right now its the only place on lake with parking that would work with the present codes.
ALTADENA NEEDS SEVERAL LOCAL PLACES FOR DINNER.
I too, think this is a great idea. I have often thought/wanted to open a small deli/cafe in the area that would also have fresh, good, simple food to eat in or take out. As someone who works long hours, I'd love to have someplace like Auntie Em's in Eagle Rock where you could also pick up prepared food to go, salads, etc...
Great idea! Even in Pasadena there's a sad lack of health food restaurants. Having one up here could be a significant draw.
Some co-ops have a kitchen that supports a deli. Nearby is often found a nice eating area - great for lunch or afternoon coffee. A good example is at Ocean Beach Co-op in San Diego (http://www.obpeoplesfood.coop/ - click on "Store Tour" then scroll a little ways down to "Deli/Bakery", then click on the various pictures of the area). This might be a good way for us to start since it's appealing in many different ways.
For later on (well, we can dream can't we?) how about a destination restaurant that specializes in gourmet holistic/sustainable dishes? My all-time favorite in the greater LA area is The Inn of the Seventh Ray (http://www.innoftheseventhray.com/). 'Wouldn't it be nice to have something like this close by?
BTW: you chose the perfect forum topic to bring this up in.
i grew up in san diego and was a member of OB People's for years. this place is amazing, and grew from a very small co-op located in a tiny converted house into a full-service grocery now housed in a large eco-friendly building. deli food was always fresh and delicious, and their focus is on vegan/vegetarian, healthy and organic foods. it doesn't get better than this. they have been extremely successful in bringing a great resource to the community.
i would love to see something similar established in altadena, as well.