The Anaheim Packing District opened its doors recently in an area of downtown Anaheim where quite a bit of effort has gone into gentrification. What was once a run-down neighborhood near city hall is now being revitalized with trendy shops, expensive condos, and new gourmet eating establishments at the Packing District.
Sit and relax
There was quite a bustle this weekend as local residents explored the newly opened attraction. Much of the activity was centered around the outdoor park, farmers market, and inside the Packing House. People of all ages sampled fresh produce and vendors sold cuts of grass-fed meat from coolers. Nuts, honey, exotic plants, and craft items were also available for purchase. Everything appeared to be high quality and locally produced.
The Packing House was also filled with activity and its amazing modern concept is comfortable and breathtaking. Interior design is clean, fresh, contemporary, open, and bright. A large, two-story, rectangular space dominates the edifice. You can look over the central balcony to see a sitting area in courtyard below. Structural support cables are draped with air plants and hanging moss. Bench swings hang from the rafters, and a large colorful couch appoints the main stage where a man is singing and playing guitar.
Echoes of light green accents and wood wicker textures combine with the foliage and open space to create the most amazing atmosphere. This is a place where I will love to come sip coffee and read once the crowds have gone.
While the space itself is an incredible example of contemporary design, I was a bit disappointed by the crowds, the small number of vendors, and limited menu selections. There were several bars, a hot pot restaurant, sandwiches, poutine, Japanese and Indian food and the majority of the menus consisted of five items of less. There were long lines for some and other spaces were boarded up with “Coming Soon” signs. This should be remedied in several months once the other occupants have moved in and the chefs are not limited to accommodating crowds.
I hope this beautiful place will be more vibrant and successful than the nearby Center Street Promenade. On the weekends it is deserted and several shops have closed their doors. Healthy Junk and Gipsy Den are among the few left worth going to and feel like lonely islands.
Umami Burger and the Anaheim Brewery seem to be more established on the other side of the Packing District, in the old Packing Building. Umami is a perennial favorite for those who don’t mind spending $20 on a burger and fries… a really good burger and fries. We did stop at the Brewery and ordered the beer taster for $11. It included six 4 oz. samples of their micro brews and a souvenir glass you get to keep.
I am looking forward to going back to the packing district in a few months after the rest of the businesses have moved in and the crowds have died down. This area of Anaheim has a lot of potential, as long as the new businesses can survive long enough for the condos across the street to finish construction and the next wave of Hipsters to move in.