Indian street food icon Wah jee Wah shutters, but not all is lost

Bounty Hunter Wood-Fired Grill closed its Walnut Creek location at 1521 Mt. Diablo Boulevard after six years of operation, leaving its Napa counterpart open. Wah jee Wah in Hayward, celebrated for its live-fire Indian barbecue, shut down due to a significant rent increase from $4,000 to over $11,000 monthly. Owner Ron Dumra stated that despite the closure, he is pursuing a new flagship location in South San Francisco. Additionally, he is managing a pop-up at California Craft Beer in Fremont, indicating ongoing efforts to keep the brand alive.

The closures highlight the pressure facing restaurants in the East Bay, particularly from rising operational costs. Dumra's determination to expand his brand amid these challenges demonstrates resilience in a tough market. The original Bounty Hunter location has been a community staple, while Wah jee Wah has garnered a loyal following for its unique offerings. These changes signal a shifting landscape for local dining options.