Back in March, the popular CHINA VILLAGE in Albany closed due to a fire. The spot, which was famous for its spicy Szechuan specialties, has been trying to reopen ever since. According to some online sources, it’s getting close. The owner, John Yao, told the Albany Patch that they’ve faced lots of delays and hope to open in January, but a commenter on Chowhound says the latest estimate is February. Neither date is currently confirmed—we’ll keep you posted as we hear more (for now, the phone just rings and rings). 1335 Solano Ave. at Ramona, Albany, 510-525-2285.
Meanwhile, in Oakland, beloved movie theater THE PARKWAY has been given new life at a location in Oakland’s Uptown neighborhood. It has been revived and renamed THE NEW PARKWAY. The original location near Lake Merritt shuttered in 2009. It was a favorite spot where you could catch a movie while sitting on couches and enjoying pizza and beer. For more details on the theater’s history, go here. J. Moses Ceaser is the primary operator of the new spot, though other parties are also involved.
Originally, it was looking like they’d be able to open this month, but now Ceaser says the spot is looking at a mid-December opening. They’ll be showing second-run films and serving pizza and beer to a sofa-lounging audience. And, unlike its predecessor, all ages will be welcome. 474 24th St. at Telegraph, Oakland, no phone.
Now all we need is for GREAT CHINA to reopen in its new location (hopefully in spring 2013). 2190 Bancroft Way at Fulton, Berkeley.
A feast at China Village Restaurant; Yelp photo by Cindy N.
