Introduction of Ordinance to Approve
Lease for a Restaurant Space at the
Historic Alameda Theater Complex at
2319 Central Avenue with an Existing
Tenant, Play House dba Director’s Cut
(Project Burger), a California LLC
March 3, 2026
2319 Central Avenue
The art-deco style Historic Alameda Theater
opened in 1932
• Designed by the renowned theater
architect, Timothy L. Pflueger
• In 2006, the City undertook a major
theater restoration project
• The Theater building has always included a
variety of axillary uses in the retail suites
along Central Avenue
• City owns and leases historic theater
building
• A restaurant has operated in this
suite since 2007
Leased Premises
• The leased space is separate from the
Theater with a dedicated public
entrance from Central Avenue
• Approximately 1,850 SF, and includes
dining area, indoor bar, kitchen, and
two single-stall, gendered restrooms
• Leased premises do not include any
designated parking areas
• No additional exterior improvements are contemplated in the new lease
• City's commercial broker publicly marketed the restaurant space for lease in late 2025 and toured interested parties
• The current tenant was the only interested party that submitted an LOI
CENTRAL AVE
Restaurant
Space
Theater
It’ll Do
(Barber)
• F
Play House, LLC dba Project Burger
• Project Burger operates a sit-down, family-friendly
restaurant with take-out options
• The current tenant purchased the business in 2018
• Has previously invested over $60,000 in interior
improvements, and owns all installed kitchen equipment
• Tenant remains in good standing and has made recent
façade improvements to the marquee, awning, and
signage
• Open 6 days per week for dinner, and 5 days per week for lunch
• F
Lease Terms
• Tenant is responsible for their
proportional share of utilities, taxes,
fees, etc.
• Lease reflects fair market value (FMV) for
the use
• Includes a 3% increase over prior lease
rate
Months Monthly Rent Annual Rent
1-12 $5,865 $64,515
13-24 $6,041 $72,491
25-36 $6,222 $74,666
Total over 36-months: $211,673
• Use: Sit-down, dining establishment with full bar
• Premises: 1,850 SF of interior space, no dedicated parking • Term: 36-month initial term (3 years) & one (1) 3-year renewal option • Monthly Rent: $5,865 or $3.17 PSF w/ annual 3% increases • Rent Credit: 1 month or $5,865
• F
Recommendation
• Hold Public Hearing, and
• Approve introduction of ordinance approving
lease with Play House dba Director’s Cut
(Project Burger), a California LLC
• Will contribute significant base lease revenues of $211,673 over three years, supporting the operating expenses of City-owned properties. • Provides space for existing, long-term tenant in good standing, to continue to make and serve sit-down and to-go food for lunch and dinner patrons, in alignment with the City’s Economic Development Strategic Plan. • Tenant will continue to maintain the premises as occupied, ensuring activation of this premium shopping district, and supporting a thriving Downtown Alameda Business District.
Rationale