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Massive European-Style Food Hall Planned for East Bay

Downtown Walnut Creek green lights The Foundry, a new 24,000 sq. ft. food hall with an outdoor courtyard
By - posted 3/11/2025 No Comment

Thanks so much to Bay Area Telegraph for sharing the news that a massive European-style Food Hall is hopefully coming to the East Bay.

After seven years of anticipation, Walnut Creek has officially given the green light for The Foundry, a sprawling 24,000-square-foot European-style food hall in the heart of downtown. Initially proposed in 2018, the project has faced delays and revisions, but with city approval now secured, the ambitious development is finally moving forward.

The Foundry is expected to be a culinary and social hub, featuring a mix of specialty food vendors, restaurants, and possibly a brewery and wine bar in additional buildings set around the courtyard. While exact details remain under wraps, early renderings suggest a concept similar to Eataly, the popular Italian food hall with locations in San Jose and other major cities. Visitors can likely expect an expansive selection of international cuisine, fresh market goods, and artisanal beverages.

The development will be located on the vacant lot across from the Walnut Creek movie theater at 1250 Locust Street / 1501 Mount Diablo Boulevard. The two-story structure will also include an outdoor courtyard and additional buildings to complement the main hall. Plans indicate that the outdoor area could host live music, events, and communal dining, making it a potential hotspot for locals and visitors alike.

While securing city approval marks a major milestone, the project still has hurdles to clear, including obtaining necessary permits and finalizing construction plans. If all goes smoothly, The Foundry could bring a vibrant new energy to Walnut Creek’s dining and entertainment scene.

For Bay Area food lovers, this is an exciting development worth watching. Whether it’s enjoying a freshly baked pastry, sipping on a fine glass of wine, or discovering a new favorite dish, The Foundry promises to be a culinary destination that transforms downtown Walnut Creek into a must-visit food and social experience.