Here are some of today’s reasons why I’m loving the Downtown Eatery and Libations, located at 1344 Market St. in Redding (the old Cheescakes):
• They support live music of all variety and it’s not just weekends. Check out this hefty, busy lineup. They match up bands that are touring up and down I-5 with area bands. A band from Seattle, Yonderlow, played there last night with Brendon Alvord’s band from Redding.
• The carnitas tacos I had there last night. Man, I almost didn’t breathe as I was pounding those babies down.
• The way it looks inside. Urban, brick walls, nice couches, comfortable.
• The way it feels inside. I’ve seen all ages and all types of people hanging out there and having a good time. Nobody’s trippin’.
• The incredible chocolate treats I had from the Sugarmama’s Bakery (inside the eatery). Baker Kendra Quan does an amazing job. She can also give you a piercing right around the corner at Nathan’s Anthems.
• The poster artwork done by Matt, who also coordinates the music. Really nice imagery. The posters are up in the windows like a hip music venue should do it. Matt also runs these excellent, obscure old movies on the flat screen. It’s sooooo much better than having some obnoxious cable channel running.
• The drinks. There are plenty of excellent beers, including the Pango and IPA selections from North Star Brewery. There are excellent wines as well. But it’s not just alcohol. They have a great selection of teas and they do excellent coffee right there at the bar. They get their fair trade coffee from a supplier in Chico.
• They’re part of 2nd Saturday Art Hop and some excellent work is hanging on the walls right now.
• They’ve got a cool website.
The establishment brings an urban “feel” to downtown Redding and it’s run by sincere people who support the arts. Here’s a toast to their efforts.
