Sprouts & Shutters: Tumblr, Pier 1 Imports, Steak n' Shake and Mama's Indian Kitchen

Wondering what new businesses are moving into your neighborhood, and which are saying farewell? Our Sprouts & Shutters column highlights the latest restaurant, retail and other business news in L.A.'s Westside neighborhoods. If you've noticed any other new businesses moving into your neighborhood or businesses closing up shop, leave a comment at the bottom of this article and we'll check it out.

Sprouts:

Tumblr has opened an office in Culver City, operating a platform for people to set up micro blogs where they can share multimedia or short-form posts. It has more than 100 million blogs in its nationwide network. The seven-person Culver City office, located at 10381 Jefferson Blvd. is Tumblr’s first West Coast branch and will focus on sales and outreach.

Pier 1 Imports will officially open its doors for business on Saturday at Marina Marketplace in Marina del Rey, according to officials with the Fort Worth, Texas-based store. As part of the grand opening, the first 200 customers who visit the store between May 6 and May 12 will receive free giveaways, according to Madison.

Steak 'n Shake, a diner-style restaurant chain popular in the Midwest, is moving to Santa Monica. The restaurent signed a 10-year lease on to move into the Third Street Promenade. The approximately 4,300-square-foot space is located near the intersection of the Promenade and Broadway, across the street from Santa Monica Place.

Dr. Martens, a British footwear brand, announced its new Santa Monica store in the Third Street Promenade is now open. Customers will find a full range of Dr. Martens boots, shoes, sandals, kids footwear, clothing, bags and accessories. 

Mama’s Indian Kitchen is now located in the strip mall at Venice Boulevard and Clarington Avenue, in the space that formerly housed Lawrence of India. Unlike many of the Indian buffet/restaurants in the area that only serve vegetarian food, Mama’s Indian Kitchen also offers food for carnivores.

Have you seen an opening or closing of a restaurant or shop in your community? Let us know in the comments!