A Taste of Little Manila at Ging’s Chicharon

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By Rose Son

Did you know that during the 20th century, Downtown Stockton was home to the largest Filipino migrant population in the United States? Although only remnants of their enclave exist in the area today, a Filipino-owned business in downtown called Ging’s Chicharon brings back memories of the once bustling Little Manila. 

Flavors of the Philippines  

Located in the middle of Filipino Center Plaza, Ging’s Chicharon pays homage to its community through food. They carry an abundance of authentic Filipino dishes that are bound to bring warmth to both the heart and soul. As you walk through the entrance door, you’re instantly greeted with a vibrant orange interior that perfectly reflect the flavors of the Philippines. Savory, garlicky aromas permeate the air from the diverse entree selection at the food bar. It’s a paradise for people who love options because of the variety of stir fry, soup, and small bite possibilities, but come early because they are quick to sell out. 

Offering a brunch and lunch menu, customers can come in as early as 10:00AM for a true Filipino breakfast plate of tocino and eggs with rice or as late as 4:00PM for a lunch plate of pancit paired with barbeque skewers. Their menu is not fixed, and it rotates depending on how many people there are to support the back of the house, so be sure to be mindful when arriving. 

During my visit to Ging’s Chicharon, I got a lunch plate with half rice and pancit paired with menudo. Even though I only went with the one entree plate, my take-out container was filled with enough for two. The rice came warm out of the rice cooker. The pancit was nice and peppery with seasoning. The menudo, the star of the show, was jam-packed with rich umami flavors and a slight hint of sweetness. Ging’s is not a fusion inspired place, so you’re guaranteed to be introduced to flavors unlike before if you’re new to Filipino cuisine like me. 

Comforting Recounts

When speaking with the worker, I learned that the restaurant opened their storefront in January of 2025, and previously operated out of a location in Lathrop, CA. They occasionally participate in community events where they sell their most beloved item, chicharon or crispy pork skin. However, in stores, they said their best sellers are chicken adobo and lumpia. 

A customer I spoke to regularly comes to Ging’s Chicharon from Lodi, CA. She said that it’s worth the drive to Downtown Stockton just to get her fix of Filipino food. Another customer that I mingled with shared that she’s of Filipino American descent, and she feels more connected to her community just knowing that there’s Filipino businesses in the Stockton. It’s clear as day that Ging’s Chicharon’s presence in Downtown Stockton brings many people feelings of comfort and home.  

Bookmark and Bring a Friend

So bookmark Ging’s Chicharon on Beli, a restaurant-focused social media app that allows users to share and rank food spots with friends. The next time you want to treat yourself or a friend out to a meal, come to Ging’s Chicharon for authentic and community-loved Filipino food. The people, food, and atmosphere make the experience a heartwarming one. Show them love at 6 West Main Street in Downtown Stockton. Support local, you won’t regret it! 

Information

📍 Address: 6 West Main Street, Stockton, CA, 95202

📅 Hours: 10:00AM – 4:00PM on Tues-Fri, 10:00AM – 3:00PM on Sat

📞 Phone Numbers: (209) 475-8352

🎭 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gingschicharon/

📸 Instagram: @gingschicharon

Love Fills the Air in Downtown Stockton

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BY: ROSE SON

For the month of February, Downtown Stockton businesses and organizations are showing out with lovely, Valentine’s Day themed activities. With events and deals catered to lovers, families, and friends, anyone and everyone can join in on the fun! So, if you have yet to plan your V-day outing, check out these places! 

Love a Good Deal?

These downtown businesses are providing the sweetest deals this week. 

  • Mango Crazy is bringing back a Buy One Get One Free special for their fresh, fruity smoothies. This week from February 9th to February 15th , come with a friend, family member, or lover for a second smoothie on the house. 

Location: 222 N El Dorado St, Stockton, CA 95202

  • Stockton Tattoo and Piercing is having a flash tattoo sale for Friday the 13th. Come in as early as 10AM and as late as 9PM for your pre-designed Valentine’s Day themed tattoo! 

Location: 742 E Weber Ave, Stockton, CA 95202

  • Ink’em Out is hosting a Friday the 13th Valentine’s Special with love inspired flash tattoos. Choose between black and red ink and a wide variety of designs as their client-ine! 

Location: 159 N Hunter St, Stockton, CA 95202

  • For a limited time, Adventist Health Arena is having a Valentine’s Day sale for the MercyMe performance happening in April. All tickets starting February 9th until February 14th will only be $25 for this show! 

Location: 248 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95203 

  • Uniqo Salon has all your hair needs this Valentine’s week from February 13th – February 15th. With $14 off deals, complimentary roses, and signature drinks, they’re giving you a salon experience like no other. Celebrate yourself or your lover with hair care and more here. 

Location: 36 N California St, Stockton, CA 95202

In Search for a Date Night?

Still haven’t made reservations? Don’t worry, we won’t tell. What we can’t keep secret are these exclusive date night experiences happening the night of February 14th, 2026. 

  • Delta Bistro & Lounge at University Plaza is curating a special night for couples in search of a luxury staycation. With a curated menu for two, photobooths, and guest performance from DJ June, a night at the hotel is bound to be romantic. 

Location: 110 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95202

  • Fed Restaurant is curating the right vibes with their RnB Valentine’s night. Musician RudyOnTheSax will be setting the mood with melodies played from his saxophone. Come by with a reservation from 7pm – 9pm to experience this unforgettable event.

Location: 116 N Hunter St, Stockton, CA 95202 

  • Cast Iron Trading Co is providing lovers with immaculate tunes from live music performed by local Central Valley band Loves Therapy this Valentine’ Day. They’re cooking up a special menu with both omnivore and vegan options, making this unique spot for all. 

Location: 114 N San Joaquin St, Stockton, CA 95202

  • Malecon Antro Bar is collaborating with instructor Emelie to give you and your date Salsa Lessons! Come by at 8pm and dance the night away while enjoying live mixes from DJ Omar. 

Location: 30 S El Dorado St, Stockton, CA

  • After dinner plans, make your way to Regal Stockton City Center for the Valentine’s weekend premiere of Wuthering Heights featuring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. This romantic drama film is based off the classic written by Emily Bronte, and you won’t want to miss it!

Location: 222 N El Dorado St, Stockton, CA 95202

For the Girl

Love isn’t just for the romantic partners in your life. They’re also for celebrating your girlfriends this weekend at these events. Here in Downtown Stockton, businesses know that Galentine’s Day is just as important, and here are the events to show for that.

  • Fed Restaurant is hosting a Galentine’s Girl Dinner for all the girls looking to celebrate their friends on Friday, February 13th. There will be a special guest bartender, photobooth opportunity, DJ, and even karaoke. Make your reservation now. 

Location: 116 N Hunter St, Stockton, CA 95202 

  • Cucoetc Events has a Botas y Tejana Paint and Sip night on Valentine’s Eve. This girl only event includes Banda, Grupo and Corrido hits from the 90s and 2000s curated by MouthfulofMark so come dressed festively in pink and red and get your groove on. 

Location: 445 W Weber Ave, Stockton, CA

  • The House of Pita is celebrating both the taken and single folks this year on Valentine’s Day. Starting at 6pm on Saturday, there will be music, food, and dancing at the House of Pita Party.  

Location: 445 W Weber Ave, Stockton, CA 95203 

  • The Stockton Junk Journal Club is coming to Trail Coffee in Downtown Stockton for a Galentine’s meeting on February 22, 2026. Bring your journal, markers, and scrapbooking decals to enjoy a wholesome journaling session. 

Location: 501 E. Main Street, Stockton, CA 95202

If you’re stuck on how to spend your Valentine’s Day, come out to these special events and support your local Downtown Stockton businesses!

Authenticity You Can Taste: Granny’s Soul Food

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Andy HeadshotBy Andy Nguyen

Have you heard of the new soul food spot in Downtown Stockton? It’s called Granny’s Soul Food, and they opened last summer! Located at 28 S California St, Stockton, CA, they’re one of the most down-to-earth, sit-down-and-eat at restaurants around; they serve up delicious food in a family-like atmosphere that you can’t get anywhere else. I recently got to try them for the first time; let me tell you about it.

Taking it Old Fashioned

When I’m looking for a Ma n’ Pa shop, I’m hoping the look of the store is nothing too fancy or  modernized. Granny’s keeps its vibe classic; a simple black and white sign letting you know it’s where to get soul food downtown. While the exterior of the shop keeps it simple, the interior dine-in area really draws you in. Beautiful lighting, mouth-watering smells, friendly chatter, and old school music enliven the small space – its a cozy place to eat, just like your grandma’s kitchen.

An Incredible Combo

Ordering from Granny’s is simple; you pick a choice of meat along with two sides of your choosing. Choosing the meat was easy, as their fried chicken is top notch. Deciding between the sides was more difficult than I thought. There’s candy yams, mac & cheese, red beans & rice, and collard greens. All of these side dishes are soul food classics which made me stump to pick two, but I finally settled on my personal favorites: candy yams and mac & cheese.

The fried chicken had a nice crunch with a tender bite inside. The mac & cheese packed so much flavor I was stunned it could be this good. And the candy yams were the perfect way to finish it off. 


From Granny Herself  

I got to speak with Granny about what made her want to open up the business, why she chose  Downtown Stockton, and what to recommend to people who have never tried this place before. 

She expressed that it was the idea of her daughter, Leticia, to open up their shop here. They had seen lots of soul food businesses in the Bay Area, but not many in Stockton, which gave her the idea to make her business here. 

Granny also received feedback from her customers that they would love to have her business here in Downtown Stockton, where her food would mark a unique cuisine in the area. 

Lastly, if you’ve never been to her shop before, she recommends getting the pork chop or fried catfish for your meat, and whichever sides you desire.


The Next Spot to Try

Granny’s Soul Food is a must-try spot to try when you’re in Downtown Stockton. From the classic, homestyle feel of the place to the amazing food that you’re served, this place is a gem. If you’re looking for the next restaurant to try here, this is it! They’re open 12:30pm to 7:30pm from Wednesday to Sunday—make your way here today!


Information

📍Address: Granny’s Soul Food – 28 S California St, Stockton CA 95202

📅Business Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 12:30PM – 7:30PM

📲Phone Number: 209.779.0127

📸Instagram: @grannys_soulfood209

🛍️Website: https://grannyssoulfoodstockton.com/grannys-soul-food-stockton/menu/28-S-California-St/ 

A Golden Experience at Golden Villa Farmers’ Market

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BY: Rose Son

When you think of Downtown Stockton, you might recall the times you’ve been to the Courthouse for jury duty, the County Administration for a Board of Supervisors meeting, or even the DMV for a driving test. What if I told you there’s more to Downtown Stockton than just its civil services? 
 
Every Saturday since 1979, farmers from all over the Central Valley and the Bay Area flock over to Downtown Stockton for the Golden Villa Farmers’ Market. Located just conveniently under Highway Four, near the Sutter Street and Washington Street intersection, it is named as one of the oldest farmers’ markets in California with now forty-seven years of business.

Vendor set up underneath HWY 4.

Buying at a Bargain 

This past Saturday, I put my sleep aside to get firsthand experience of Golden Villa Farmers’ Market success. Upon my 7:00AM arrival to Lot D — where vendors set up their stations — I was awed by the amount of foot traffic Golden Villa received on such a fog-filled day. Despite the gloomy weather, there were lines of people chattering as they waited for their turn to talk to vendors. People came prepared with carts and even flashlights to help them view the best deals their produce was priced at. To my surprise, fruit and veggies weren’t the only thing the market had to offer. Some vendors were selling sugar cane, chicken feet, snails, and more. “Variety” becomes the first word that comes to mind when I reflect on my Saturday at the market. 

Attendee Testimonial

From one community member that I spoke to, I learned that attending the Golden Villa Farmers’ Market is a weekly routine for him. The diverse selection of seafood, poultry, and herbs make it easy to get grocery shopping done, and with products like crab being sold at $5.00 a pound, it’s hard not to make the trip downtown. 

Purchase in action.

Creating Connections & Community 

While visiting the information booth, I discovered that the Golden Villa Farmers’ Market houses around 50 vendors on average, but they’re always looking for new vendors to join and enhance the market experience. The application is simple and readily available online year-round for interested individuals to apply.  







Fish egg, crab, and fish head by the pound.

Golden Villa also makes it easy for community members to attend as there is no entry fee or ticketing involved. Just come over, find parking, and enjoy your stroll through the crowd. On top of that, they also take EBT and cash which helps keep Golden Villa accessible to all visiting residents.  








Attendees going through produce selection.

Plan Your Next Visit

The next time you open the fridge and realize you‘re missing a head of cabbage, make the visit to Golden Villa Farmer’s Market! You’ll experience a community of love and hard-working vendors that bring farm-to-table ingredients to you, guaranteeing your next meal satisfaction. 

Details 

📍 Address: 255 S Sutter St Stockton, CA 

📅 Business Hours: Every Saturday, 5:30AM-9:30AM   

📲 Contact: 209-302-7243 

💻 Website: https://www.goldenvillafarmersmarket.com/ 

📸 Instagram: @goldenvillafarmersmarket 

Emery’s — Downtown Stockton’s Newest Food Spot

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Andy HeadshotBy Andy Nguyen

Have you tried the newest food spot in Downtown Stockton? Located at 40 N. Sutter St., it’s called Emery’s—an American, Black-owned business that specializes in burgers, meats, and everything soul food! I recently visited for the first time; let me tell you about it.

What Feels Like a Mom-and-Pop Shop

The interior and exterior of the restaurant give it the feel of a classic “mom-and-pop” shop you’d find in a big city. The exterior maintains a simple, clean look on the first floor of a multi-story building. Their restaurant name outside supports this simple look with its bold white lettering set against a solid black background.

When you walk inside, the burst of gold and bronze on the walls is the first thing that catches your eye. This, complemented by bar seating with tall stools, makes it feel like a truly classic, old-fashioned eatery.

The Special Menu Experience

The menu offered plenty of options—it was hard to pick just one! I eventually ordered from their specials menu: a BBQ meal with a choice of meat and two sides.

Choosing the meat was easy, as they are best known for their tri-tip. However, narrowing down the sides—which include mac & cheese, fries, baked beans, potato salad, and greens—was a challenge. I finally settled on my personal favorites: fries and mac & cheese.

The tri-tip was tender with an amazing sauce. The mac & cheese had a subtle yet flavorful bite, and the thinly sliced fries were perfectly crispy. Combining that signature tri-tip flavor with my favorite childhood side dishes made this a fantastic first-time choice.

Have you seen our video on Emery’s? Watch it on our Instagram!

From The Owner Himself 

I had the chance to speak with the owner, Emery, about his inspiration, why he chose Downtown Stockton, and what he recommends to newcomers.

Emery shared that he wanted to bring high-quality food to Stockton because this city is his home. His vision for the business is for it to become “a staple in our downtown community for the next 20 years.” He’s inspired to “spice up” Downtown Stockton, making this the perfect location.

If you’ve never been to Emery’s, he recommends the tri-tip BBQ sandwich meal. He also mentioned the “eclair cake,” a newly offered dessert: “It’s sweet, refreshing, and a spin on the definition of cake!”

The Next Spot to Try

Emery’s is easily one of the best restaurants I’ve tried in Downtown Stockton. From the selection of meats and burgers to the comforting side dishes, it has quickly become a favorite of mine. They’ve recently extended their hours until 10 PM every day—go try them out!


Information

📍Address: 40 N Sutter St, Stockton CA 95202

📅Business Hours: Monday – Sunday, 11AM – 10PM

📲Phone Number: 209.323.4154

📸Instagram: @emerys_stockton

🚗Doordash – https://www.doordash.com/store/emerys-stockton-north-sutter-st-stockton-38408173/

The Evolution of Beloved Downtown Eatery, Cast Iron Trading Co.

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By: Zachary Hulsey

Located in the heart of Downtown Stockton, Cast Iron Trading Co – 114 N. San Joaquin Street, Stockton, CA -. is a deeply community-rooted food businesses serving some of the best local eats! For over 9 years, Cast Iron Trading Co. has been grounded in our community.

Beginnings

Originally opened by Eric Lee, Cast Iron has become a go-to spot in our community where Stocktonians can grab unique and delicious options for food and drinks like no other. The spot has unique artisan food and an industrial vibe. But it’s more than just a place to grab a bite, it’s a place that also hosts intimate live music nights. On certain Thursdays and Saturdays, Cast Iron Trading Co. has artists perform live music inside their space or in the alley next door. Having local artists perform live has helped make Cast Iron a gathering space that highlights the music scene in our city.

Located just off of Weber Avenue in downtown, it has served as a central hub for downtown workers, residents, and everyday Stocktonians looking to experience something special. At a time when downtown was quiet and underutilized, Cast Iron came onto the scene and made a niche for itself by bringing something different to the downtown community. It offered food and beverage options never seen before – including multiple tantalizing vegan options; locally sourced menu items; and a space that didn’t feel like a typical café or bar. From their Thursday-only Cali burrito to their BBQ chicken flatbread, each food option has its own unique taste crafted by amazing chefs. Whether it was hosting poetry readings, live jazz, or pop-up events, Cast Iron found a way to stay deeply rooted in our community while maintaining a level of quality that earned it praise beyond just the 209.

Evolution

David Cicileo took on the ownership of Cast Iron a few years ago, and this year, Cast Iron Trading Company faces another evolution as the business has recently been acquired by a new set of owners!

For the past few months, new owners, Shane Tracewell and Daniel and Bri Cortes, have been maintaining the 9-year-old business. I went in person to meet with one of the owners, Shane Tracewell, and I asked him what he looks forward to most in the future of the company. Shane shared, “We’re hoping to inject some life into downtown.” As far as the future of Cast Iron’s ties to the community, Shane said, “It would be nice to utilize our spot to highlight local talent, community, and events to improve downtown while also supplying all local goods.”

If you’ve been to 114 N. San Joaquin Street in the last month, you may have noticed that the restaurant has undergone a deep clean; it is sparkling a ready for its new chapter. You may also have seen that there are new happy hours – 3p–6p, Wed, Thurs, Fri – and that their pub menu is now offered all day long!

As Cast Iron Trading Co. enters a new chapter of ownership, the change is more than just a shift in management, it’s a moment that could redefine what the space stands for. In many ways, Cast Iron is symbolic of Stockton itself. It’s urban, beautiful, underrated, and full of promise. The transition in ownership is the start of a new era.

Reasons to Visit

Cast Iron Trading Co. is a vibrant downtown business, and it’ll continue to revitalize our downtown community through their role in our city’s food and drink scene. Whether it’s their smash burger or their caprese salad, you really can’t go wrong with anything on their menu; it’s all delicious. Whether it’s a date night, meeting, or even just to hang out, it’s a great spot to reinvest your money back into the local economy – a space for Stockton, by Stockton.

The only true way to experience the industrial vibe of Cast Iron Trading Co. is by going there! Follow their accounts to find out when they will next be hosting live music! Tell them the Downtown Stockton Alliance sent you!

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🌾A Century of Flavor: A Visit to Yet Bun Bakery

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By: Olivia Lee

A Century-Old Local Favorite

In Downtown Stockton, Yet Bun Bakery has been sharing its familiar, comforting flavors with the community for over a century. It’s the kind of place locals keep coming back to—not just for the food, but for the sense of connection. Recognized with the 2024 Century Business Award, Yet Bun continues to be a part of daily life for many Stockton residents.

Favorites That Keep People Coming Back

As a Chinese-style bakery, Yet Bun offers a wide variety of baked goods, but two items in particular have built a loyal following: the pork bun and the gin doi. The pork bun features a slightly sweet filling wrapped in soft bread—simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. The gin doi is a sesame-coated rice ball with a pleasantly chewy texture and a mild red bean filling inside.

A Quick Bite and a Warm Welcome

When I stopped by, I went straight for the pork bun. The bread had a soft, slightly firm texture that paired well with the sweet-savory pork. It felt like the kind of snack that can easily fill you up without being too heavy—something you can enjoy any time of day. The shop itself felt warm and familiar, with a casual atmosphere and kind staff who clearly take pride in what they do.

Your Turn to Try It

If you’re curious about local favorites or want to try something new, Yet Bun Bakery is definitely worth a visit. Whether you’ve grown up in Stockton or are just passing through, there’s something comforting about stepping into a place that’s been part of the neighborhood for generations. The owner, Cheryl Lee, shared appreciation for the many loyal customers over the years and added with a smile,

“Come try our pork bun — it’s simple, but it’s made with love.”

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  • Location : 6 W Main St # C, Stockton, CA 95202
  • Phone number : 209.462.3254
  • Opening hours : Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Louie’s Market: A Downtown Classic with 80 Years of Tradition and a Fresh New Start 🥓

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By: Olivia Lee

A Downtown Stockton Icon

If you’ve spent any time in Downtown Stockton, chances are you’ve heard of Louie’s Market—or maybe even stood in line during a busy lunch hour to grab one of their legendary sandwiches. For around 80 years, this local favorite has been cherished by generations of Stockton residents for its comforting flavors and welcoming vibe.

A Fresh New Chapter

Recently, Louie’s Market entered an exciting new chapter under new ownership! After a thoughtful remodel, the space now feels brighter and more inviting while still preserving the old-school charm that longtime customers know and love. Along with the new look, they’ve also extended their hours until 6:00 PM, making it easier to come by for a late lunch or an early dinner.

Signature Sandwich Experience

No trip to Louie’s would be complete without trying their signature Ribeye Steak Sandwich—and yes, it features a real ribeye steak. Juicy and perfectly grilled, the steak is layered with fresh vegetables and vibrant toppings inside soft, fresh bread, coming together for a satisfying bite that lives up to the hype. I visited right around lunchtime and, true to its reputation, the place was bustling. The efficient service and steady flow of customers kept things moving smoothly and made the wait more than worth it.

A Place to Feel at Home

Whether you’re a longtime Stocktonian or just visiting downtown, Louie’s Market is the kind of spot that makes you feel at home. Come for the food, stay for the warm atmosphere!

Information

  • Location : 734 E Main St, Stockton, CA 95202
  • Opening Hours : Mon to Fri, 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Social Media(IG) : @‌louiesmarket
  • Social Media(FB) : @louiesmarket

🦀 Satisfy your Seafood Cravings with Blazin Cajun! 🦐

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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. 

PHOTO “Both Margaritas” 

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.  

PHOTO THE BAY “The Bay Close Up” 

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” 

PHOTO “Inside Decor Window Fishnets” 

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! 

PHOTO “Group Food & Drink Photo”

   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 
PHOTO “Outside Logo” 

Growing Together: Stockton Small Business Week 2025

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By: Olivia Lee

Empower and Connect: Stockton Small Business Week

Now in its fifth year, Stockton Small Business Week celebrates the hard work, creativity, and influence of local small businesses and the entrepreneurs behind them. This annual event not only honors their contributions to shaping the identity of our city but also gives them access to valuable resources for growth and success. It’s a week to recognize their stories, connect with the community, and foster an environment of growth and innovation for businesses at every stage.

Downtown Event Highlights

Downtown Stockton has been home to three exciting events during this year’s Small Business Week. The celebration began on a high note with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on the steps of City Hall (425 N. El Dorado St.) on Monday, May 5 from 9:30 to 10:30 AM. This uplifting gathering honored small business owners who have been pillars of our community for over 15 years. It was the perfect way to kick off a week filled with energy, gratitude, and community pride. Downtown favorite, Nena’s Mexican Cuisine, was among the businesses honored this year!

On May 7th, the Downtown Stockton Alliance hosted Angelina Abella from the City of Stockton Economic Development Department to talk all about Stockton Small Business Week and other resources for our local businesses on Episode 66 of Talk to Downtown. You can watch the interview here. Throughout the week, the DSA will also be highlighting many Downtown Stockton small businesses on our social media platforms.

On May 7th, from 4:00 to 6:30 PM, Fund My Business, a hands-on workshop hosted by Centro Community Partners at 343 E. Main St. helped small business owners learn what they need to prepare in order to get their business ready for funding. This free session was tailored for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to better understand business finances, explore funding options, and connect with a supportive network. Whether just starting out or ready to grow, this workshop was a valuable step toward turning business visions into reality.

For Business Owners — Get Involved

There are still more Stockton Small Business Week events happening Thursday, May 8th, and Friday, May 9th. Check out the Stockton Small Business Week website to learn more about them. Whether you’re just starting out or have been running your business for several years, this week is all about you. It’s a valuable opportunity to gain practical tools, ask questions, and feel seen as a vital part of Stockton’s growth. With a mix of in-person and virtual sessions, you’ll be able to learn directly from experts, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and feel inspired by stories of others walking a similar path. Whatever stage you’re at, you’ll walk away with something useful—and a renewed sense of motivation.

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