I read an article in the local paper today that the crappy mall I used to work at is doing further renovations. It’s been sometime since I’ve been there as they’ve added a new 16-screen movie theater as well as a state-of-the-art bowling alley/sports bar.
Now something like this wouldn’t have caught my attention if not for the fact that mall management has made some interesting decisions as to what they want to be an “lifesytle” anchor for the mall. Vallco has decided to open up a Steve & Barry’s apparel store (blah, who really cares?) and The Hofbräu Beer Hall Silicon Valley Cupertino (try saying that three times, fast!). In the words of the article,
“ The 400-seat beer hall and restaurant, which is being designed to imitate the ambience of Munich, Germany’s Hofbräuhaus, figures heavily in efforts to make the mall just as much about entertainment as shopping.”
In addition:
“The Hofbräu Beer Hall Silicon Valley Cupertino – that’s the full name – will be on the second level of Cupertino Square’s east wing, overlooking Wolfe Road through a large array of windows. The mall will run the restaurant and buy the iconic beer, Hofbräu München, as part of the license for the concept.”
I infer from this article that people are starting to notice that beer, good beer in an authentic setting, can be big business. Someone, somewhere in mall ownership/management had the ability to survey the landscape and realize that there are few places in the South Bay Area that are dedicated to celebrating beer. Sure, there are the local craft brewers and brew pubs (please continue to go and support them!) but nothing really available for the enjoyment of imported beers. There are no authentic (or even pathetic attempts, really) beer gardens in the South Bay. It is my hope that this will be the catalyst that gets the ball rolling. Should this be a successful venture, then I look forward to seeing more beer gardens or import beer specialists opening up in the South Bay.
No related posts.
I think this is a great idea. That mall needs some serious help…maybe this will draw more customers, and eventually better shops to what’s left of it.