BIGMallrat's Editorial Review
 Blackhawk Plaza is a beautiful shopping center,
originally intended to be the Stanford
Shopping Center of the East Bay. However, Blackhawk Plaza
has never taken off.
As Grandma B says, "you can roll a bowling
ball down the middle of it and not hit anyone."
Surrounded by wealthy homeowners, it was a surefire
hit. However, the rich didn't get rich by spending money. And besides,
as the locals say, "everything is in Walnut Creek."
Atmosphere
Set in an open-air environment, this shopping
center is beautifully landscaped; flanked with gorgeous
fountains and streams.
A little man-made San Antonio, so to speak. It's an excellent place
to take photographs. Plus, you don't need to worry about people getting
in your way.
Stores
The regional draw is the Blackhawk Auto Museum.
For the enthusiast or even the uninterested, the museum is fun and
impressive; worth a visit and the price. It also includes an automotive
reference library and museum store.
The community draw is the Cinemark movie theater,
which is a local favorite and draws good-sized crowds.
Some national retailers include Ann Taylor and
Restoration Hardware. You'll also find services to improve your appearance,
such as dental, plastic surgery, and a Bally Total Fitness
center.
Not to be missed is the retail outlet for the
California Watercolor Association. Until they have raised the funds
to build their own building, you can enjoy works from talented
California
artists.
As for an upscale fashion-oriented department
store, no such luck. At first, plans included Bonwit Teller, the
upscale retailer from New York. However, cutbacks
ensued and that flopped. The uber-chic Blackhawk Market (previously
FJs Market), featuring gold-plated shopping cards with mobile phones,
later closed
and became flop number 2. Then came Saks Fifth Avenue, which went
as fast as it arrived
(lasting six months). Flop number 3. The Fresno-based Gottschalks,
featuring moderate-priced home goods and clothing, replaced Saks
and
seemed to be working. However, in 2006, Gottschalks was forced out
and later replaced by the upscale Draeger's Market (see press
release), becoming flop number 4. Gottschalks closed on August
26, 2006. With Draeger's loyal following and cooking school, we are
hoping history won't repeat itself.
The press release also went on to announce a
remodel of the center, including new facades, fireplaces, lighting,
and other architectural elements. The grand re-opening was scheduled
for spring 2007, but as of May 2008, the remodeling is languishing.
Food
There is some fine dining, including the Blackhawk
Grille (don't miss; bring money). Many restaurants feature outdoor
seating, almost European in nature. However, don't expect to find
a place to buy a Coke, since there aren't any fast-food outlets.
Location
Blackhawk Plaza is located in Danville CA. However,
this shopping center is difficult to get to since it isn't located
remotely close to a freeway. You have to drive down east Crow Canyon
Road or Sycamore Road for miles from I-680. Each a long
road winding through the McMansions of Danville and San Ramon
with red-lights at every corner.
In summary
This mall has great potential,
but isn't living up to it. A museum isn't going
to draw the crowds to make this a true regional center.
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