Live music returns to downtown Stockton for new series

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Nostrum minus ea suscipit porro alias corporis libero at. Perferendis omnis, veniam nemo beatae vel? Tempora numquam a repellat eaque natus, magnam?

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

by Ben Sanchez

The Downtown Sounds music series launched this past month with some amazing rockin’ sounds from Haywired. While their weekly music set is coming to an end, we had a variety of questions regarding this new, outdoor music event downtown. We wanted to take all your feedback and answer as many questions you have about Downtown Sounds. We all know you are curious about who is performing next in downtown. Let’s take a look at how this event has evolved over the past year.

What is Downtown Sounds?

Last year, the Downtown Stockton Alliance hosted a series of music events downtown with local musicians. The open space in Janet Leigh Plaza was a great opportunity to present a free outdoor event for the community. In May 2021, University of the Pacific’s Patrick Langham Jazz Sextet was the first group to appear in Janet Leigh Plaza performing live jazz outdoors!

The first outdoor music event was dubbed ‘Jazz in the Plazz’ and throughout the month had more attendance every Tuesday. With the success of the outdoor music series, two more monthly events would appear in 2021. The Mike Torres Jr. band would play in September for Torres Tuesdays and Phillip Bailey Moncrease appeared in October to bring more amazing sounds to downtown.

Initially, the music series did not have an official name tied to each monthly event downtown. Each musical performance was tied to a different, monthly title. This year, we wanted the music series to fall under one title as we introduce Downtown Sounds in 2022. With more performances planned throughout the year, you will want to follow our social media platforms to stay updated on who is playing live on Tuesday nights.

When is Downtown Sounds?

Our music series is every Tuesday night at Janet Leigh Plaza.

Live music starts at 6 PM and will run until 8 PM.

Is there a charge for this event?

No. This event is FREE to the public.

Jazz in the Plazz highlight from 2021.

Will I need to bring a chair?

Plastic chairs will be provided. You may bring your own chair to this event. The plaza has plenty of space for you to sit and enjoy music.

Who has performed this year?

We reached out to Haywired, a “Rockin Americana” style band with dynamic vocals that are welcome sounds to downtown Stockton. With a versatile musical style, this band is inspired by country, rock, pop, folk, R&B and blues.

Haywired performing downtown

Will Jazz in the Plazz return to downtown? 

Absolutely! We heard all the feedback from the community and are happy to announce that Jazz in the Plazz returns in May for our Downtown Sounds series. Langham, Professor and Program Director of Jazz Studies at the Conservatory of Music at University of the Pacific, is excited to perform for our community in downtown Stockton. You can catch live jazz downtown starting on May 3rd at 6 PM.

Mike Torres Jr. band

Are restaurants open during the live event?

Yes! All restaurants in the surrounding area of Janet Leigh Plaza will be open. Grab food during the show! Drinks are also allowed outdoors! Here is a list of restaurants in the plaza serving tasty food on Tuesday nights.

Grab food and drinks at the Plaza!

Share your #DowntownStockton experience 

While you’re exploring downtown – snap a photo and share it on social media with us! Be sure to tag us in your photos at @Downtownstockton and use the hashtag #DowntownStockton for the chance to be featured on our social channels. 

Check out the downtown vlog episodes on our YouTube channel!

Subscribe now and catch all new episodes in downtown Stockton.

Veggie-Friendly Options You Can Find Downtown

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Nostrum minus ea suscipit porro alias corporis libero at. Perferendis omnis, veniam nemo beatae vel? Tempora numquam a repellat eaque natus, magnam?

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

By Courtney Wood

As more people pursue diets that increase the inclusion of plant-based foods or reduce the consumption of meat products (for health benefits, animal rights reasons, religious reasons, environmental reasons, or simply a matter of personal preference), the demand for vegetarian and vegan friendly options has risen. Restaurants and food manufacturers have decided to step up to the challenge, and Downtown Stockton restaurants are in on this trend!

Having spent the past 16 years as a vegetarian, and the past 4 years working Downtown, I have decided to share a few of my favorite Downtown vegetarian lunches with you so that all the vegetarians, vegans, flexitarians, and omnivores out there looking for options can discover the veggie-friendly treasures our Downtown restaurants have to offer.

*Please note that when I use the term “vegetarian” in this article, I am using it to mean lacto-ovo vegetarian. Also, I want to stress that if you have dietary restrictions, preferences, or allergies, always communicate them to restaurant staff prior to ordering for your own peace of mind and safety.*

#1 The Downtowner – VEGAN Nachos

The first dish on my list is The Downtowner’s Vegan Nachos, which are so delectable that you won’t want to share (warn your stay-at-home roomie or partner). The flavors in these nachos will definitely surprise you in the most “can’t stop eating them” way. The chips themselves are fried corn tortillas, and they are covered in a cashew-based sauce with a savory sage kick to it. The combination of the sauce with other awesome toppings like avocado smash, black beans, and pickled jalapenos will make you wonder if any nachos from your past life were ever actually good.

Aside from this filling nachos dish, The Downtowner has several other vegetarian and vegan friendly meals and sides to choose from, including the Portabello Sandwich, the Big V Burrito, and more. The Downtowner is a great spot for trying experimental flavors that will liven up your day.

Vegan Breakfast Burrito, photo by Natalie D. on Yelp

#2 Kabob & Gyro House – Falafel Salad

Next up is Kabob & Gyro House’s Falafel salad. Yes, I know, a salad. If you’ve been a vegetarian for a while or even if you’re not vegetarian, anytime someone mentions “we brought a salad,” you’re likely underwhelmed due to the insane number of sad iceberg lettuce, red cabbage, and carrot shredded “salads” we’ve all been tortured with for decades.

I am happy to say that this salad is different! 

Many times a salad can miss the mark either due to a lack of flavor or lack of a substantial protein source and I am pleased to say that this salad suffers from neither problem. Romaine lettuce, deliciously flavorful olives, a tangy dressing, and a touch of feta (ask them to hold the feta if you are vegan) are topped with crispy, hearty falafel scoops. For those of you who are unfamiliar with falafel, it usually contains chickpeas, herbs, and wheat flour (check with staff if you are avoiding gluten) all mashed together in a dough that is then fried to golden perfection. If you want to add to your heavenly experience, order a side of hummus and add a dollop on top.

If this dish sounds appealing, but you want to try falafel a different way, they also offer a Falafel Burger, Falafel Wrap and Falafel Plate! If you are vegan be sure to ask staff about ingredients before ordering (some of the sauces may contain dairy or eggs).

Falafel Salad, photo from Yelp

#3 Moomoo’s Burger Barn – “No Moo” Burger

Are you surprised that I’m including a hamburger place?

Here’s why – Moo Moo’s is one of those awesome burger spots which understands that sometimes people who don’t eat meat still want something chargrilled and wrapped in a bun. Moomoo’s offers a vegetarian patty in place of a regular patty on any of their burger sandwiches – the “No Moo” as it reads on their menu. In addition to the vegetarian patty option, they also have a gluten-free bun (yay!) for those avoiding gluten (double check with staff if you are avoiding egg). This is my go-to place for a veggie burger in Downtown. The patty – topped with ketchup, mustard, a bit of onion, and a piece of crispy lettuce – nestled on the gluten free bun and plated with a pickle will make you forget beef is even a thing (we all know it’s the toppings and sauce that REALLY make a burger).

The “No Moo Burger”, photo by Megan S. on Yelp

#4 Cast Iron – VEGAN Brussels Sprout Tacos

If you’re looking for a late lunch, and are craving street food with a twist, look no further than Cast Iron Trading Co.’s vegan brussels sprouts tacos. Delicious, slightly crispy brussels sprouts are covered in a spicy vegan chipotle crema and wrapped in a corn tortilla. Try these with a cold craft beer or glass of on-tap kombucha and enjoy the restaurant’s new outdoor seating!

If brussels sprouts don’t excite you, Cast Iron also serves a Beyond Meat patty burger with a tasty pesto sauce.

Brussel Sprouts Tacos, photo by OMG. on Yelp

#5 Misaki Sushi & Bar – Vegetemp Roll

Misaki’s may be popular for their fish, eel, sea urchin, and crab-based based fare, but they also have savory vegetarian options, like the tasty Vegetemp Roll. This roll features lightly battered and crisply fried asparagus or carrot tempura pieces at its center, and arrives with those familiar sushi bar sidekicks of pickled ginger and wasabi. If you really want to amp up the yum factor, ask to add avocado and cream cheese (if you’re not vegan, of course).

More options can be found on their menu in the “Vegetarian Delights” section, but some notable ones include the Avokyu roll, the full order of Vegetable Tempura, Vegetable Udon, and the Chuka Wakame salad (made entirely of marinated seaweed – listed in the “Appetizers” section). Check with your waiter if you are gluten-free or vegan to see which options will fit your unique needs.

Wakame Seaweed Salad, photo by Lena on Yelp

#6 Thai Thai Restaurant – Yellow Curry

The red, yellow, pumpkin, and avocado curries from Thai Thai restaurant are the cure for anyone bored of boiled vegetables flavored with salt and pepper. Over the years, I’ve found that flavor variety can make or break your enthusiasm for your next plant-based meal. Fortunately, Thai food has a lovely mix of sweet, spicy, savory, and salty aspects to tickle all of your tastebuds.

Thai Thai’s Yellow curry offers perfectly cooked potatoes and onions in a slightly sweet, expertly seasoned sauce. I suggest adding basil to complement the curry’s flavor and tofu if you want to up the protein content. When placing your order, staff will ask you to note how spicy you want your dish – medium, hot or Thai hot – so there are options to suit everyone’s heat tolerance!

Aside from Thai Thai’s amazing curries, another vegetarian friendly option is the Pad Thai dish (order without egg if you’re vegan).

Yellow Curry, photo by Mystery M. on Yelp

Here are a few honorable mentions:

Papa Urb’s Grill – for a quick snack, try the veggie lumpia (check with staff if you are avoiding egg)

Casa Flores – for a build-your-own kind of lunch, order a side of beans (ask for no cheese if you are vegan), with salsa, guacamole, lettuce, tomato, and a few warm corn tortillas

Subway –  for a vegetarian, protein-filled sandwich, just “sub” the veggie patty for meat on any of their sandwiches or wraps (or add it to a salad if you’re trying to eat fewer carbs)

Alfalfa’s – if you need a slice of pizza to make your day, Alfalfa’s has individual slices of plain cheese as well as vegetarian pizza for you to enjoy while walking around downtown

Now that you know about these veggie-friendly choices, we hope you’ve been inspired to try something new, (or at least have found a few places where you can bring your vegetarian friends).

Takeout Tuesday: Yasoo Yani

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Nostrum minus ea suscipit porro alias corporis libero at. Perferendis omnis, veniam nemo beatae vel? Tempora numquam a repellat eaque natus, magnam?

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

https://www.facebook.com/152150884082/videos/717152258846354

Yasoo Yani is Stockton’s first Greek restaurant. Family owned and operated, they’ve been part of the downtown community since 1975! Come by for some lunch and satisfy your taste buds with some delicious Greek food.

They also have a small outdoor seating area if you’re looking for a place to sit and enjoy a quick lunch. If you can’t make it downtown, don’t worry- you can still get Yasoo Yani delivered to you through DoorDash.

Don’t forget to like them on Facebook for updates and specials!

LOCATION: 326 E. Main St.
OPEN: Mon-Fri, 8:30am-1:30pm

Takeout Tuesday: Nash and Tender

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Nostrum minus ea suscipit porro alias corporis libero at. Perferendis omnis, veniam nemo beatae vel? Tempora numquam a repellat eaque natus, magnam?

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

Heading 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem ipsum mollitia neque, illum illo excepturi, eum incidunt fugit nostrum est, voluptate eaque minima corporis debitis at, dolores ipsam. Quaerat, dolores.

https://www.facebook.com/152150884082/videos/677931916122806

How well can you handle spice? If your answer is not well at all, EXTREMELY well, or anywhere in between, then you’ve got to try Nash and Tender (if you haven’t already)! Known for their delicious hot chicken, you can choose varying levels of heat all the way up to “XTRA HOT” and “STUPID HOT” (but you’ll need to sign a waiver for the latter). Don’t forget to add a side of their seasoned fries for a match made in heaven!

Skip the line and wait by placing an online order through Clover, or stay in your PJs and place a delivery order through DoorDash or Postmates. To stay updated on specials and news, visit the Nash and Tender website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

LOCATION: 222 N. El Dorado Street
OPEN: Mon-Fri, 10am-8pm & Sat-Sun, 11am-8pm