In recent news, Big Lots! has announced the closure of several stores in California, sparking concerns about the impact on the local community in Redding. Additionally, the closure of a popular upscale restaurant, Moonstone Bistro, has left many residents saddened by the loss of a beloved dining establishment. Let’s delve into the details of these developments and explore what they mean for the city.
Moonstone Bistro, located in the Holiday Foods shopping center on Placer Street, bid farewell to its patrons after nearly two decades of serving fine cuisine. Owners Che and Tanya Stedman opened the restaurant in 2007, offering a unique menu and fine-dining experience that garnered a loyal following over the years. Known for sourcing fresh seafood from Bristol Bay, Alaska, Moonstone Bistro provided a culinary experience that set it apart from other eateries in the area.
The restaurant faced challenges during the pandemic, as indoor dining restrictions forced businesses to adapt to outdoor dining and take-out options. Despite these obstacles, Moonstone Bistro received overwhelming support from the community, enabling them to build an outdoor patio to accommodate guests. However, the ongoing challenges proved to be insurmountable, leading to the decision to close the restaurant.
While Moonstone Bistro was listed for sale with an asking price of $350,000, it is unclear whether the business has been sold or if it remains on the market. Realtor Scott Pewitt confirmed that the business will be taken off the market following the closure. The Stedmans expressed hope that the space will be filled by another local, family-owned business in the future, maintaining the spirit and soul that Redding residents have come to expect.
In a separate development, Lost Era Antiques and the adjoining café in downtown Redding have also closed their doors, leaving the building vacant. The café, known for its unique menu and ever-changing offerings, was a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Plans for a new venture, the Lost Supper Club, were in the works before the closure, promising a blend of 1930s Hollywood glamour and ’90s MTV aesthetics.
On the retail front, Big Lots! has announced the closure of 50 stores in California, but the Redding location is not among those slated for closure. The store, which relocated to Cascade Station in 2020, has been a fixture in the community since 1994. The decision to keep the Redding store open comes as a relief to many, as it plays a significant role in driving traffic to the shopping center.
While these closures mark the end of an era for some businesses in Redding, the community remains hopeful for new opportunities and ventures to fill the void left by Moonstone Bistro and Lost Era. As the city continues to navigate the challenges of the pandemic and shifting consumer trends, residents are eager to see what the future holds for the local dining and retail scene. Stay tuned for updates on the evolving landscape of businesses in Redding.