There’s more activity lately on Montana Ave. in Santa Monica than you can shake a stick at.  Sadly, we saw this one coming…  After a valiant effort and loads of free samples, Valen Dolce is giving up the ghost at 1426 Montana Ave. #5.  Further up the street, it looks like stiff competition coming from its next door neighbor Sweet Lady Jane, is causing Via Dolce to vacate its space at 1627 Montana.  But all is not lost, Via Dolce (not related to Valen Dolce… I know, its confusing) will be taking over the old Valen Dolce space.  They should be ready for business sometime in January 2012.  Look for the usual menu of coffees, teas, pastries, salads, and sandwiches.