The ART in FIRE

Meet the New and Coming Soon

Destination Dopwntown

by kelly Jawn Hauert

Just the other day, a very important City of Visalia official described Downtown Visalia as quote, The most active economic development area in the city. Who could deny such a statement with all the new businesses opening, construction projects underway and developments being approved to be built in the near future.  Both the public and private sectors continue to invest millions of dollars in some very exciting new projects.

New Businesses: The Frosted Muffin is an all out home run business by owner Kaity, with a lot of help from some very dedicated family members. It is the Baskin Robbins of muffins with her 28 flavors of frosted morsels ranging from names like Pineapple Upside Down to Very Chocolaty Mocha. Each is placed in a fancy black box to go.  All hail the return of Chelsea  Street  Boutique located in the 100 block of east Main between Church and Court owned by Marlene, Sam and Gina Sciacca.  This now makes 10 specialty clothing boutiques located downtown within a 4 block area. The window displays are eye catching and the new interior is very romantic and rich looking.  Veloria Records moved recently from the 200 east Main block to the 200 west Main block and is under new ownership. Stop by and say hi to the new Fresno owner who is excited about Downtown Visalia.

Coming Soon: East Main Street will be filling up fast with the addition of five new businesses. In the 200 block look for The Men’s and Women’s Style Shop, The Clay Café for those who love to create their own ceramic gifts, Ray’s Club to get you jazzed (owner Eric is a former NFL football player with an affinity for Jazz music )and the addition of restaurant number 50 with more fine cuisine. With that many restaurant choices you couldn’t possibly get bored. In the 300 block Chavez Balloons is locating in the former coffee and tea house location near Crawdaddy’s.  And finally, Smitty’s Gourmet Hot Dogs is opening in the Fox Theatre complex at 304 W. Main Street. This is a long time dream of the new owner who would like to introduce everyone to a great tube steak.