The best food cravings spot in Downtown Stockton: The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks

Posted on August 7, 2025August 8, 2025 by Intern DSA

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BY ANDY NGUYEN

Lunchtime Cravings, Community Impact

The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks is serving the community in more ways than ever before! Located inside Courthouse Plaza in Downtown Stockton, it offers a variety of options to satisfy your cravings, such as Carne Asada tacos, burritos, pizza, hamburgers, and their special Main Street House Fries.

In addition to satiating your hunger, they are dedicated to supporting youth. Launched as a social enterprise, it was founded by Main Street Youth Family and Services, whose goal is to empower youth through various outlets. Young staff members are involved in day-to-day operations, including the shop’s display, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in a real-world environment.

Where Talent and Passion Come Together

This year, The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks placed 2nd in Downtown Stockton’s 4th of July Decoration Contest. Blending in non-traditional decor items with an array of holiday-themed colors, it delivered a unique, enticing view that celebrated the spirit of the holiday. This also reflected the youth staff’s creative contributions, which gives the store a personal touch that customers notice and admire.

How One Purchase Goes a Long Way

By making a purchase of at least $5 dollars from a Courthouse Plaza business, you’re admitted free entry to the Underground Arcade. Here you can play an abundance of classic arcade games from pinball machines, street fighter games, air hockey, free-throw basketball, and more! A quick bite to eat before indulging the arcade is the perfect way to spend your day while supporting the community in Downtown Stockton.

The Newest Way to Enjoy The Kitchen

Recently, their business has expanded into online ordering. You can order ahead of time and skip the line; who doesn’t like that? Whether you’re an early bird needing breakfast fuel or craving a lunchtime must-have, this is a perfect spot to visit in Downtown Stockton. Support local business and order now!

Order Online Here: The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks

Information

Location: 306 E. Main Street, Suite 203, Stockton, CA 95202

Summer Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00AM – 2:00PM

Website: The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks

Instagram: @thekitchenatplazaperks

Facebook: The Kitchen at Plaza Perks

Order Online: The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks

🍜Discovering Johnny Wokker: A New Culinary Gem in Downtown Stockton

Posted on June 24, 2025June 24, 2025 by Courtney Wood

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By: Olivia Lee

Downtown Stockton has welcomed an exciting new addition to its dining scene with the opening of Johnny Wokker, a vibrant Asian restaurant that promises to bring authentic flavors right to the heart of our city. About two months ago, this restaurant opened its doors for the first time in downtown, conveniently located right next to Regal Cinema, making it the perfect spot for a pre-movie dinner. As someone always on the lookout for great Asian cuisine, I couldn’t wait to experience what Johnny Wokker had to offer.

A Delightful Dining Experience

Walking into Johnny Wokker, I was immediately impressed by the spacious and comfortable interior. The restaurant has a surprisingly large layout that feels both welcoming and modern, creating an atmosphere where you can truly relax and enjoy your meal. For my dining experience, I decided to try two of their signature dishes: the Pad See Ew and Crab Fried Rice with Shrimp.

The Pad See Ew was absolutely phenomenal – featuring perfectly cooked spicy noodles tossed with tender beef and fresh vegetables that created a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Each bite delivered just the right amount of heat and savory flavor that left me wanting more. The Crab Fried Rice with Shrimp was equally impressive, packed with generous portions of fresh crab meat and plump shrimp, all well-seasoned and fried to perfection.

What struck me most was not only how delicious both dishes were, but also the generous portion sizes that definitely provided great value for money. The friendly and attentive staff added to the positive experience, making sure we felt welcomed and well taken care of throughout our visit.

Your Next Downtown Dining Destination

If you’re in the mood for authentic Asian food at a reasonable price, Johnny Wokker should definitely be on your list. With its convenient downtown location, comfortable atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent service, this new restaurant has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a great meal before catching a movie next door, Johnny Wokker delivers on all fronts. Don’t miss out on experiencing this fantastic new addition to Stockton’s culinary landscape!

Information

Location : 222 N. El Dorado, Suite J, Stockton, CA
Opening Hours : Mon to Sat, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Social Media(IG) : @‌johnnywokker_downtown

🦀 Satisfy your Seafood Cravings with Blazin Cajun! 🦐

Posted on June 23, 2025June 24, 2025 by Courtney Wood

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By: Andy Nguyen

Downtown Stockton is home to the most exhilarating live events, historical landmarks, and home grown, local restaurants you can’t find anywhere else. Located next to the delta waterfront, Blazin Cajun is the perfect spot to satisfy that seafood craving you’ve been having. Here’s why Blazin Cajun should be your go dining spot in Downtown Stockton. 

On the Menu

They offer everything you crave for in a seafood dining experience: Shrimp, Crab, Lobster, Crawfish, Mussels, Fish, Oyster, and more. Choose whether to get seafood by the pound, basket, or their special combo; then customize the sauce & spice level to your liking! Choose from their butter garlic, cajun, or house special for your sauce and elevate the spice level from cajun to flame or blazin.

To compliment your cravings, they offer scrumptious appetizers and side dishes like cajun fries, mozzarella sticks, and chicken wings made with their special house sauce.

For cocktail and beer lovers, they have something for you as well. Enjoy their Happy Hour with $1.25 off all appetizers, beers, shots, and mixed drinks everyday from 3PM – 6PM. You can’t go wrong with a Corona beer with their cajun fries!

“The Bay”

Calvin Khem, son of owner Samphors Khem, cites The Bay as the most popular item their customers enjoy – ½ lb. of Snow Crab, ½ of Headless Shrimp, 2 corns, and 2 potatoes with their house special sauce and flame for spice level. Their house special fries are another item customers order to compliment The Bay. 

From the owners

We spoke with the Khem family, who own Blazin Cajun. They wanted to express their utmost thanks and grace to the customers that have been supporting their family-run business for over 5 years. In these 5 years, they have expanded menu offerings, increased staff, and grown their social media following of over 10,000 followers. Their desire was to share their fresh, flavorful, homecooked-based recipes to Downtown Stockton in a welcoming, modern atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. 

PHOTO “Inside Decor Window Fishnets Edited”

In the Net

This is the perfect place to plan into your trip to Downtown Stockton. You can go to watch a movie at the Regal Cinemas City Centre or experience the fascinating views of Weber Point’s Waterfront; all within walking distance of another! 

Whether you’re a seafood lover or someone looking to try cajun food, Blazin Cajun is the spot for you. Enjoy a cajun feast & call (209) 594-0581 to reserve your table today!

   Information 

Location: 125 Bridge Pl, Stockton, CA 95202

Days & Hours: Tuesday – Sunday from 3:00pm – 9:00pm. *Saturdays from 3:00pm – 9:30pm.

Phone Number: (209) 594-0581

Order Online

Socials: Instagram, Facebook, Yelp

The House of Pita: Fresh, Flavorful Mediterranean Eats in Downtown Stockton

Posted on March 17, 2025March 17, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

The House of Pita is a Mediterranean restaurant located at the Waterfront Warehouse – 445 Weber Avenue, #126 – in Downtown Stockton. Opened in September 2024, this new dining spot is already winning over customers with its flavorful dishes and inviting atmosphere. Known for its popular spicy garlic pasta and chicken shawarma, the restaurant also offers flexible menu options depending on different diets, including vegetarian and vegan choices. All chicken and gyro meat served here are halal, making it an excellent choice for those seeking halal-certified meals. Additionally, they serve a variety of drinks with a stylish bar area, making it a perfect place for dinner.

Bringing The House of Pita to Downtown Stockton was a personal decision for the owner, who is originally from Stockton and wanted to share her love for Mediterranean cuisine with the community. The restaurant’s location at the Waterfront Warehouse adds to its charm, offering beautiful waterfront views. Dining on the patio offers a great view of the Stockton Arena and Banner Island Ballpark, making it a perfect spot to enjoy your meal.

The House of Pita has exciting plans for the future! Live music performances will be held on the patio during spring and summer, making a lively dining experience. Customers can also enjoy weekend specials, happy hour deals every day, and Taco Tuesdays. The owner is also planning to launch Sunday brunch, expanding the menu even further. She encourages the community to explore what Downtown Stockton has to offer, saying, “Support small businesses in the downtown area! Come and visit the downtown waterfront and enjoy Mediterranean food, from kebabs to pasta.”

If you’ve never tried Mediterranean food before, she has one simple message: “Give it a try! Mediterranean food is healthy, and we have something for everyone.”

Information

Location: 445 W Weber Ave #126, Stockton, CA 95203
Reasons to Visit The House of Pita:
- Diverse Mediterranean Cuisine: With vegetarian, vegan, and halal options available, everyone can find something to enjoy.
- Dining Experience with Waterfront View: You can enjoy your meal on the patio while taking in the beautiful waterfront scenery.
- Exciting Events and Specials: The House of Pita keeps things lively with events such as live music, daily happy hour deals, and Taco Tuesdays.
Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Instagram: @‌thehouseofpita_stockton

Orlando’s Market and Deli: A Downtown Stockton Staple for Nearly a Decade

Posted on March 7, 2025March 7, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

For nearly 10 years, Orlando’s Market and Deli has been serving the Downtown Stockton community with fresh deli items, snacks, and everyday essentials. The name comes from the owner’s family name, Orlando, which has been recognized in the area for over 50 years through their family-run convenience stores. Wanting to continue the tradition in a new way, Dante Orlando opened Orlando’s Market and Deli in the heart of downtown, providing locals with quality food and a welcoming atmosphere.

When it comes to food, Orlando’s Market offers a variety of popular deli items, including the turkey bacon avocado sandwich, hot link sandwich, and grilled chicken salad. Patrons can tailor their deli sandwich orders to their unique preferences – just choose your bread, meat, cheese, and condiments! The market also sells an assortment of movie snacks, medicine, lotto tickets, and even trading cards. Plus, they take customer recommendations based on the needs of the downtown community. During my visit, I tried the grilled chicken sandwich and customized it to my taste. The freshly grilled chicken, crisp veggies, and perfectly toasted bread made for a satisfying meal—simple, yet full of flavor. On top of that, Orlando’s Deli also offers catering services for events, office meetings, and gatherings, making it a convenient option for both quick bites and larger occasions.

Dante chose Downtown Stockton for his business because of its vibrant community and central location. With many government offices, businesses, and apartment complexes nearby, the deli has become a hub where people stop by daily. What Dante loves most is the sense of connection—getting to know regular customers and being part of the downtown atmosphere. When I visited, I could see this firsthand—Dante greeted customers with a friendly smile and chatted with them as they placed their orders, making the market feel more like a community space than just a shop.

“Orlando’s market has something for everybody. Whether it’s a nice meal, a snack, beverage, or even a quick conversation. We plan to be a staple in the downtown area for years to come.”

– Dante Orlando

Information

Location: 155 N Hunter St, Stockton, CA 95203
Reasons to Visit Orlando’s Market and Deli:
- A Downtown Favorite: Serving the community for nearly 10 years, Orlando’s Deli has become a go-to spot for locals.
- More Than Just a Deli: From freshly made sandwiches to snacks, beverages, and even household essentials, Orlando’s Deli offers a bit of everything.
- A Business That Cares: Owner Dante Orlando values his customers and takes the time to build real connections.
Orlando’s Doorways to Downtown Video:
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Xcm9vSQMt4&t=4s
Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Instagram: @‌orlandos.downtown.deli

Start Your Day Right with Fresh Coffee at Cooper’s Coffee!

Posted on January 29, 2025January 31, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

Nestled at 13 S. San Joaquin Street in Downtown Stockton, Cooper’s Coffee (formerly called Red’s 13) is a small and cozy café that has been a daily favorite for locals for nearly 30 years. The café’s name comes from the owner’s grandfather, and the interior shows her family’s love and warmth. In this welcoming atmosphere, customers can enjoy not only exceptional coffee but also the friendly charm of the owner, Belinda. It’s no surprise that Cooper’s Coffee has so many loyal regulars who describe it as a place full of character—a home away from home.

When it comes to the menu, there’s something for everyone, but the most popular item is the Cubano. This drink combines two shots of espresso, raw sugar, cinnamon, and steamed half-and-half, making a creamy and rich flavor that isn’t too sweet—perfect for those who love smooth coffee without too much sugar. Another standout is their cold brew coffee, made with a unique cold brew machine. The difference is noticeable, and fans of cold brew will definitely be able to tell how smooth and refreshing it tastes.

For non-coffee drinkers, Cooper’s Coffee offers other great options, such as Chai tea, which provides mild caffeine, but isn’t as strong as coffee. They also feature seasonal specialties, like peppermint mocha and gingerbread latte during the winter months. I can’t wait to see what exciting flavors will be introduced next season!

Located just across from Courthouse Plaza in Downtown Stockton, Belinda loves running her business in this area. Downtown is home to a diverse mix of workers, residents, and students, and she enjoys staying busy while being part of this dynamic community. Through her café, she not only serves amazing coffee but also spreads kindness and energy to her customers.

It’s this welcoming vibe and dedication to the community that keep regulars coming back to Cooper’s Coffee time and time again. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, a visit to Cooper’s Coffee is sure to leave you feeling uplifted and ready for the day ahead.

Information

Location: 13 S San Joaquin St, Stockton, CA, 95202
Reasons to Visit Cooper’s Coffee:
- Loyal regulars: Cooper’s Coffee has a strong base of loyal regulars, and the owner goes above and beyond to keep these relationships.
- Unique cold brew machine: Their special cold brew machine creates a distinct and exceptional coffee flavor.
- A piece of history: As one of the oldest cafés in Downtown Stockton, Cooper’s Coffee has been serving the community for nearly 30 years.
Opening Hours: Monday–Friday, 6:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Instagram: @‌coopers_coffeeco

My Magical Night at the Stockton Lantern Festival

Posted on December 18, 2024December 13, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

Information:
·        Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 19, 2025!
·        Times: 5PM to 10PM daily, last ticket sold at 9PM
·        Location: Banner Island Ballpark, 404 West Fremont, Stockton
·        Tickets
o   Ticketmaster.com
o   Adventist Health Arena box office: Mon, Wed, Fri 11AM-2PM
o   Banner Island Ballpark, daily starting November 20.

I recently visited the Stockton Lantern Festival, and it
was an unforgettable evening filled with light, culture, and fun. From the
moment I arrived at the ballpark, I was overwhelmed by this year’s “Magic
Ocean” theme. Each year is a new theme creating entirely new experiences;
this year, we have been transported from the Magic Forest of last year to the
Magic Ocean!

Stunning Lantern Displays
The highlight of the festival was, without a doubt, the
stunning lantern displays. Each lantern is a masterpiece, showcasing artistic
details and vibrant colors. Featuring glowing jellyfish, whales, and vibrant
coral reefs, each display was meticulously handcrafted by lantern artisans
using the ancient technique of traditional Chinese lantern making. Also, some
of them were moving and speaking!

Fun for Everyone
The festival offered something for everyone. While I
walked through the lanterns, I was dazzled by the magical interplay of light
and shadow. The interactive lanterns and activities provide quality
entertainment for families with children, but the hand crafted lanterns also create
an amazing and romantic atmosphere perfect for a date night! I think this
festival is a great option for anybody who wants to make a day special.

Captivating Performances
Another standout feature was the live stage
performances. Traditional Chinese dances, accompanied by stunning costumes and
music, created a special performance that was fun to experience. The energy and
skill of the performers made the show a highlight of the evening. There will be
performances throughout the two-month run of the festival showcasing a vibrant
mix of music, dance, and acrobatics.

Food and Souvenirs to Remember
Of course, no festival is complete without delicious
food, and the Stockton Lantern Festival delivers in the best way. They have
traditional winter offerings like hot chocolate, as well as ocean-themed fare, including
Sand Dollar Cookies, Fishbowl Cocktails, and Fish & Chips. They also offer
unique, hand-crafted souvenirs which I recommend to preserve special memories
of your visit!
As Jason Perry, General Manager of ASM Global – Stockton
shared, the “Stockton Lantern Festival is fun for all persons, regardless of
age and is an experience that will allow you to return again, seeing it through
a different perspective each time you walk the baseball field. Come
celebrate the winter season at Stockton Lantern Festival while you create
cherished memories and new traditions with your friends and family.”
The Stockton Lantern Festival was a magical experience,
perfect for families, friends, and couples. If you’re looking for a night to
remember, I highly recommend visiting. There are plenty of days left before the
lantern display leaves Downtown Stockton on January 20th, so don’t
miss your chance to experience this highlight of the holiday season!

For more details, visit:
· Website
· Instagram & Facebook

Main Street Market 2024

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Looking for amazing local eats, vendors, and great live music performances? Main Street Market is your go-to event.

April 9th (Music performance by Bananafish (Cover Rock))

May 14th (Music performance by Touch of Magic (Latin))

June 11th (Music performance by Nick Elwood (Cover rock))

Downtown Stockton Parking Guide

Posted on April 3, 2024April 3, 2024 by Courtney Wood

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By Shaun Chatrath

Downtown Stockton General Parking Information

Downtown Stockton is made up of 3 types of parking options: MONTHLY LOTS, DAILY LOTS, AND HOURLY SPACES.

HOURLY SPACES, also known as STREET PARKING, are along the curbsides throughout downtown and can be paid at the parking meter nearest to the space.

You may also use the ParkMobile Parking App to pay for these meters.

NOTE: Payment is only required for hourly street spaces and curbsides in downtown Stockton on Monday – Friday from 9 am to 6 pm.

STREET PARKING IN DOWNTOWN STOCKTON IS FREE ON.

Downtown Stockton Parking Lots

Downtown Stockton has 7 garages/lots open to the public to use for daily parking. This does not include the arena and ballpark lots that are open only during events at these specific venues.

Various businesses such as the movie theater, validate parking. So, we recommend asking the business that you are visiting if they do so. The lots that are open to the public are below:

Coy Parking Garage

Stewart-Eberhardt Parking Garage

Lot F

Lot J

Lot K

Lot L

Lot O

Downtown Stockton Parking Map

Below is a map of all the lots in Downtown Stockton, with each public parking lot marked with a RED DOT:

Downtown Stockton Parking Cost

Cost varies per lot and event. For example, Fourth of July parade parking might be slightly higher than your average cost on another day.

Most parking lots range between:

$1.50 – $3.00 for hourly parking

$5.00 – $12.00 for daily parking

$10.00 – $25.00 for special event parking

Card, cash, and the ParkMobile Parking App are all accepted as payment. However, we recommend having 2 out 3 of the options ready to pay on the rare chance the payment system is down.

Downtown Stockton Parking Recommendations

Regal Cinema and nearby restaurants/shops – Coy Garage and Stewart-Eberhardt Parking Garage

Bob Hope Theatre, Courthouse Plaza, and nearby – Lot F

RTD, Cort Tower, and nearby restaurants/shops – Lot J

Trail Coffee, The Razr, and nearby restaurants/shops – Lot K

Businesses and locations with onsite parking lots:

7-Eleven
BAC Community Bank
Bank of Stockton (301 E Miner Ave)
Chase Bank
Children’s Museum of Stockton
Dutch Bros
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Filipino Plaza

McDonald’s
PNC Bank
Robert J. Cabral Ace Train Station
Saint John the Evangelist Episcopal Church
Sonic Drive-In
Starbucks
Stockton Marina
Stockton Police Department

Studio 6 Suites Stockton, CA – Waterfront
Sunshine Hawaiian BBQ
The Store Bar
University Plaza Waterfront Hotel
Valley Strong Credit Union
Waterfront Warehouse
Weber Tech.
Wells Fargo Bank

Arena, Ballpark, Civic Center, and Weber Point

Adventist Health Arena – Arena Garage and Fremont East Lot

Banner Island Ballpark – North Lot and West Lot

Stockton Memorial Civic Center – Civic Center Lot

Weber Point Events Center – Coy Garage and Stewart-Eberhardt Parking Garage

Downtown Stockton Parking Links

ParkMobile Parking App | Find & Pay for Parking | On-street & Reservation

Talk to Downtown Episode 1 – Understanding Downtown Parking with Tina McCarty!

City of Stockton parking webpage

Business Highlight: Fiesta Mex

Posted on August 3, 2023August 3, 2023 by Courtney Wood

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By Shaun Chatrath

Fiesta Mex is a party supply and grocery store located at 545 E Channel Street in Downtown Stockton. If you’re hosting a fiesta or any other type of party, you can find everything you need here—from tablecloths and decorations to pinatas, and even groceries.

One of the best things about Fiesta Mex is their wide variety of products. They have a huge selection of decorations, including banners, streamers, balloons, and centerpieces in a range of colors and themes. Whether you’re throwing a birthday party, a Quinceanera, or a Cinco de Mayo celebration, you’re sure to find just the right decorations to make your party pop.

Fiesta Mex has a huge selection of piñatas. They have traditional Mexican-style pinatas, as well as more modern designs shaped like unicorns, superheroes, and other popular characters. You’ll also find all the candy and small toys you need to fill your pinata and make your guests smile.

Another great thing about Fiesta Mex is their affordable prices. Party supplies can be expensive, but you’ll find that most of the items at this store are priced very competitively. Whether you need one or two decorations or a whole party’s worth, you’ll be able to get what you need without breaking the bank.

In addition to their large selection and affordable prices, Fiesta Mex is also known for their friendly service. The staff is knowledgeable about all their products and can help you find just what you’re looking for. They can also offer suggestions and ideas if you’re not sure where to start with your party planning.

In summary, if you’re looking for party supplies in Downtown Stockton or nearby, Fiesta Mex is worth checking out. With a large selection, affordable prices, and friendly service, it’s no wonder why this store is a favorite among locals who like to party. So, head down to Fiesta Mex to get ready for your next fiesta!

To contact Fiesta Mex call: (209) 292-8145

Facebook – @fiestamexest2021

Hours:

Monday – Friday (9 AM – 7 PM)

Saturday – Closed

Sunday (9 AM – 5 PM)