BIGMallrat's Editorial Review
Blackhawk Plaza is a beautiful
outdoor mall in the shadow of scenic Mount Diablo. Originally
intended to be an upscale East Bay shopping destination, Blackhawk
Plaza has failed to live up to its potential.
As Grandma B says, "you can roll a bowling
ball down the middle of it and not hit anyone." Locals have
been quoted as saying "well, 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 Century movie
theater, which is a local favorite and draws good-sized crowds.
Some national retailers include Claire's
and Anthropologie. You'll also
find services to improve your appearance, such
as dental, plastic surgery, and a Crunch Gym.
Not to be missed is the Blackhawk Gallery by the
Alamo Danville Artists' Society. Inside you'll find a fine selection
of art by 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 lasted
only eleven months. Flop number 3. The Fresno-based Gottschalks 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. With Draeger's loyal following
and cooking school, we are hoping history won't repeat itself.
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, there aren't any fast-food
outlets. Methany's by the playground is the only place to get a quick
meal.
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 east on 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.
|
