WALNUT CREEK, CALIFORNIA – Outdoor parklets were one of the few beneficial parts of the pandemic. Restaurants added them en masse back in 2020, and it was so nice to dine “al fresco”, especially here in California, where even November can be balmy!
Sadly, many of the temporary parklets of the pandemic era are gone. But one Walnut Creek restaurant just built a lasting one, and it looks super luxe and upscale!
Sasa, the modern Japanese izakaya at 1432 N Main St in downtown Walnut Creek, has added a polished outdoor parklet to its footprint — bringing more open-air seating to one of the city’s busiest corners. The restaurant, already known for its sleek dining room and craft cocktails, now spills onto the street with warm wood tones and leafy greenery for a true patio vibe.
Part of Walnut Creek’s push for high-quality parklets
The new Sasa parklet is one of the early projects supported by Walnut Creek’s Outdoor Dining Program, which offers a $10,000 reimbursement grant to help restaurants build attractive, code-compliant parklets downtown.
The city launched the program this summer to boost street life and dining options; Sasa’s build is highlighted by the city as a privately funded success story under the initiative. Applications for grants are open through December 31, 2025.
More seats for a spot that already draws a crowd
Sasa has long been a downtown favorite for weekend lunches, sushi dates, and happy hour. With the new parklet adding street-side energy — and the existing Minami Outdoor Garden along the side of the building — expect more coveted al-fresco tables at peak times.
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