Big news in the foodie world

It figures that as soon as I start to settle into summer, thinking, It’s summer in Chico, time to relax, I’m suddenly bombarded with news of local businesses doing cool new stuff. Apparently people aren’t slowing down this year. Which makes my job easier—thanks, all!

Now open A couple of beer-centric businesses opened recently, including The Commons—the pour-your-own brew bar on Park Avenue. Early reports are that the beer selection is impressive and the atmosphere fun. They’re holding a yoga class there on July 14 called Brew Flow. Twenty bucks gets you a 45-minute session, plus a 16-ounce beer. Cool!

And, seemingly without warning, Nor Cal Brewing Co. opened up last week at 180 Erma Court. With eight taps serving small-batch beers, plus a rotating lineup of food trucks, it’s a cool addition to Chico’s growing beverage district. Summer hours are Wednesday-Sunday. Check out norcalbc.com for more info.

I recently mentioned that Brave Coffee was coming to the corner of Mangrove and Vallombrosa avenues. I haven’t made it over yet to check it out, but owner Gentry Morton informed me it’s open for business.

Expanding menus A bunch of restaurants around town are offering new things this summer, which is exciting. Downtown hotspot Burgers and Brew announced last week that it’s added a full vegan and vegetarian menu. Items include veggie, portobello and tofu burgers, plus there’s a breakdown of the restaurant’s breads and condiments and their veg-worthiness.

Taps Bar and Grill, at Fourth and Walnut streets, recently launched a happy hour menu, served 3-6 p.m., Monday-Thursday, with items ranging from nacho fries and garlic knots to burger sliders and, the one I’m itching to try: lamb-burghini pockets. Also, during the summer, Taps is serving brunch only on Sundays (through Aug. 12).

Across town at The Lab Bar & Grill, owner Kevin Jaradah is putting the finishing touches on the place in preparation for the grand opening Friday (July 13). He has a couple of new chefs who he says are top-notch. A new, full menu is now being served (don’t worry—the to-die-for chicken sandwich isn’t going anywhere).

Video gamers take note: The Chico Taproom, in the Almond Orchard, is starting a regular eight-person Nintendo 64 Mario Kart tournament on the first Monday of the month. Check Facebook for updates, including prize info.

Coming soon A new food delivery service is poised to open in Chico. Actually, it’s been operating since May, but only for Raley’s eCart buyers. Soon, however, FoodJets, a Sacramento-based company, will be delivering food from participating restaurants. So far, according to Facebook, a bunch of places are already on board, including: Foodie Cafe, Fresh Twisted Cafe, Gogi’s Cafe, Ike’s Place and Uncle Skinny’s BBQ. Stay tuned for updates—an app is in the works.