Savor Dining Guide 2017

CHICO’S ANNUAL DINING & NIGHTLIFE GUIDE

2017-2018 | FREE

INSIDE:

Local chefs dish it out

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A Local Favorite Since 1965!

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner We serve great Italian dinners, famous deli sandwiches, homemade pizzas & calzones and the freshest salads in town! Don’t forget our delicious breakfast served everyday starting at 6:00am.

Our family has owned and operated the Italian Cottage for over 50 years.

You can count on the same quality & consistency since day one, with some new & exciting specials: 10 oz Top Sirloin, Rustic Chicken Parmesean, Roasted Garlic, Pasta Ka-Boom, Tostada Stratta, Corned Beef Hash & Eggs, Eggs Benedict, Blueberry Pancakes, Biscuits & Gravy and more!

Gluten Free & Vegetarian options Come Join Us for a Great Meal!

Cocktails • Beer • Wine Catering • Banquet Rooms Champagne Sunday Brunch All Items Available To Go

C ATERI N G AVAI LAB LE FOR ALL OCC ASI ON S

Best Asian Cuisine Best Take-Out Best Restaurant in Oroville C ELEB RAT I N G 1 0 5 YEARS I N B U SI N ESS! 2 0 0 9 - 2 01 6

16 2006 - 2016

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2525 Dominic Dr. Chico 342-7771 6am-9pm Sun - Thu, 6am-10pm Fri & Sat

2234 The Esplanade Chico 343-7000 6am - 10pm

Both locations open 7 days a week

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Oroville 533-1488 Chico 898-1388

Dungeness Cra b

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Friday $ Nights

95*

*With your Rewards Club Card, $29.95 without. Management Reserves All Rights ©2017

SUNDAYS | 10am-2pm $

30 Adults

Unlimited Champagne Must be 21+ to Consume Alcohol.

Management Reserves All Rights ©2017

ColusaCasino.com SAVOR

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 Outdoor Patio  Private Banquet Room Fiesta Hour Daily 4–6 p.m.   125 Premium Tequilas

For booking inquiries, please contact: Jenna Choate Event Coordinator (530) 342-4848 blueagaveroom@gmail.com

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100 BROADWAY CHICO, CA 95928 (530) 342-0425 TRESHOMBRESCHICO.COM

The Blue Agave Room is a private banquet room for your special event. With an inviting atmosphere, full-service tequila bar, customizable catering options, and an easy-to-use projection system, the Blue Agave Room is perfectly appointed to help you host your meeting or party.

A CN&R RESTAURANT & NIGHTLIFE GUIDE

W

ho’s hungry? No matter your cravings, Chico’s restaurant scene has you covered. Over the past year, it seems cafes and eateries have been popping up in all corners of this fair city. Add to that the continuing mobile food craze, and you’re likely to find just about every kind of food to satisfy your hunger at any time, sometimes even in unexpected places!

Peruse these pages for brief descriptions of what Chico has to offer, from breakfast joints to fine dining establishments. There’s also a nightlife section, which features the area’s pub grub and happy hour hotspots as well as places for dancing and live entertainment.

And, as a little added insight into some of Chico’s restaurants, check out the Q&A’s with three prominent local chefs sprinkled throughout the listings. Enjoy!

On the cover: Photo of The Five Mile at Bidwell Park Pizza

by Meredith J. Cooper

BIG TUNA 1722 Mangrove Ave, Chico • 345-4571 Open Sun-Thurs: 11:30am-10pm Fri-Sat:11:30am-10:30pm

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2017/2018 RESTAURANTS

FEATURES

Asian ..........................................................................6

Meet the Chef

Breakfast Nooks ...................................... 10 Burgers, Delis & Dogs...................... 11 Casual Dining ............................................... 12 Coffee Houses............................................. 13 Eclectic Eats...................................................17 Fine Dining....................................................... 18 Homestyle........................................................ 19 Italian.................................................................... 26 Mexican.............................................................. 26 Pizza........................................................................27 Street Food .................................................... 31 Sweets................................................................. 32

Q&A’s with three of Chico’s culinary powerhouses.

Antonio Lieberum, Crush....................8 Amanda Leveroni, Bacio .................. 14 Jeramie Sabelman, Japanese Blossoms.................................. 28

Nightlife.............................................................. 20 Index...................................................................... 34 Savor Editor: Meredith J. Cooper Design: Tina Flynn, Sandy Peters Listings Photos: Jason Cassidy, Meredith J. Cooper, Ken Smith Sales Manager: Jamie DeGarmo Savor is published annually by the Chico News & Review, 530-894-2300, www.newsreview.com. ©2017 Chico Community Publishing The information in this dining guide is current as of August 2017. Listings and prices are subject to change at any time.

IZAKAYA ICHIBAN 2000 Notre Dame Blvd., Chico · 342-8500 Corner of E. 20th & Notre Dame, behind Best Buy Open 7 Days 11:30am - 10pm Patio Seating Available · Live Music Tue & Sat SAVOR

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Your complete guide to

Eating Out in Chico

ASIAN Aonami Sustainable Sushi Recently moved downtown from its spot on West Sacramento Avenue, Aonami offers Asian fusion and Japanese cuisine made mostly from North State ingredients and served in a sleek, modern atmosphere.

As the name implies, the fish is sustainable (nothing on the “red” list!).

Lots of vegan options, too. 128 W. Second St., 924-3168 $-$$

Chada Thai Cuisine Serving authentic Thai dishes, including a vegetarian menu. Lunch, Monday-Thursday; dinner, Monday-Saturday. 117 W. Second St., 342-7121 $$

Chan Pheng’s Mandarin Cuisine Serving delicious Mandarin, Hunan and Szechuan cuisine. Delivery available. 1140 Mangrove Ave., 894-6888 $

China House

Big Tuna Sushi Bistro

Chinese and Asian fusion food at a good price. 951 Nord Ave., 893-2988 $

A cozy restaurant featuring traditional Japanese sushi, plus a variety of appetizers. 1722 Mangrove Ave., 345-4571 $$

Cocodine Thai Cuisine

Boba TeaLicious Serving refreshing tapioca-pearl tea drinks in a variety of flavors, as well as smoothies, slushies and fusion teas. Seating available for enjoying ramen and other snacks. 225 Main St., Ste. M (inside the Garden Walk Mall), 966-2077 $

Broadway Market & Deli No-fuss Chinese food with lunch, dinner and vegetarian specials available, along with an assortment of “bubble teas.” Eat in or take out.

128 Broadway, 899-8368, www.broadwaymarketanddeli.com $

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Specializing in flavorful and healthy authentic central and northeastern (Issan) Thai cuisine. 2485 Notre Dame Blvd., Ste. 250, 891-1800 $$

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Chinese-style fast food; drive-thru window and indoor seating available. 659 Palmetto Ave., 893-1838 $

Enjoy Teriyaki Delicious Korean specialties, including bibimbab and cellophane noodles. Also serving potstickers, tempura and teriyaki combos for dining in or taking out. Beer and sake served. 450 Broadway, 899-9344 $

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Japanese Blossoms Japanese Blossoms serves up creative Japanese cuisine using local ingredients. In addition to sushi and sashimi, there’s a nice list of fully cooked entrees. Vegan and allergen-friendly dishes available.

Open daily: lunch, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and dinner, 5-9 p.m., with nightly happy hour specials. 2995 Esplanade, Ste. 104, 891-9022, www.japaneseblossoms.com $$

Kwando Restaurant Featuring a hibachi grill and Chinese buffet with a huge sushi bar, salad bar, carving bar, oysters, shrimp, dim sum, soup, fish, desserts and appetizers. 740 Mangrove Ave., 343-6788 $$

Mekkala Thai Cuisine A family-owned and -operated Thai restaurant offering an elevated but casual dining experience. Lunch specials and take-out available.

1196 E. Lassen Ave., 636-4620 $$

Momona Noodles + Bao Specializing in ramen, bao (steamed buns) and other Asian-inspired dishes. Plus a sake bar! 230 W. Third St. www.momonachico.com $$

Noodle House Delicious Vietnamese and fusion cuisine including soups, bowls and wraps. 605 Mangrove Ave., 345-2022, www.noodlehousechico.com $

Ojiya Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar Sit around the hibachi and watch the chefs grill steaks, seafood and vegetarian fare. There’s a sushi bar, too. 2477 Forest Ave., 899-1199 $$

Panda Express Serving up Chinese favorites and other creations—fast. Drive-thru available. 2443 Cohasset Road, 345-7389 $

Upper Crust Bakery & Eatery

Everyday Vietnamese Cuisine Vietnamese food, including a variety of pho, sandwiches, coffee and tea. Open daily, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 951 Nord Ave., Ste. A, 893-2888 $

Gen Kai Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar Try traditional Japanese dishes or the sushi bar at this longtime Chico favorite. 605 Mangrove Ave., 345-7226, www.chicogenkai.com $-$$

Ginger’s Chinese Restaurant Specializing in Szechuan, Mandarin and Hunan cuisine. Lunch, dinner and delivery. 2201 Pillsbury Road, 345-8862 $

Happy Garden This family-run restaurant specializes in delicious Chinese cuisine served in generous portions in a nice atmosphere. Dine-in or take-out available. 180 Cohasset Road, 893-2574 or 893-5068 $

Hula’s Chinese Bar-B-Q All-you-can-eat Mongolian barbecue with fresh vegetables, noodles, meats and sauces. Beer and wine available. 2540 Esplanade, 3428564; 1937 E. 20th St., 342-6304, www.hulasbbq.com $$

Izakaya Ichiban A sister restaurant to Big Tuna Sushi Bistro, serving Japanese tapas and traditional Japanese cuisine. Two sushi bars, a nice outdoor patio, plus regular live music and karaoke. 2000 Notre Dame Blvd., 342-8500 $$

Peking Chinese Restaurant San Francisco chef Ken Zeng presents lunch and dinner specials in this charming underground restaurant, which transforms into a nightclub on Friday nights. Closed Sunday. 243 W. Second St., 895-3888 $$

Peter Chu’s Mandarin Cuisine Tasty Chinese food at reasonable prices. 2424 Cohasset Road, 8948276, www.peterchu-chico.com $$

Pho C & C A variety of Vietnamese cuisine, including soups, rolls, noodles and traditional grilled or barbecued meats. 3211 Cohasset Road, 892-1415 $$

Pho Le Pho Le serves up Vietnamese favorites, from signature pho noodle soups to rice plates and rice noodle bowls. Also a large selection of smoothies with boba tapioca balls. 2201 Pillsbury Road, 487-8933. $

Rawbar Restaurant & Sushi Bar Fab downtown sushi bar and Asian grill offering a full bar, happy hour and affordable lunches. Reservations accepted. 346 Broadway, 8970626, www.rawbarchico.com $$

Rice Bowl A sit-down restaurant serving Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Also featuring a sushi bar, tatami rooms, beer and wine. 2804 Esplanade, 899-9098 $$ DINING LIST continued on page 10 SAVOR

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Antonio Lieberum

Refined comfort Antonio Lieberum, head chef at Crush

F

or Antonio Lieberum, good food is in his blood. A passion for quality ingredients was passed down from his mother, who cooked religiously while he was growing up, supplementing grocery store shopping and local ingredients with herbs and vegetables from the garden.

Seven years ago, after completing culinary school at Le Cordon Bleu in Sacramento, Lieberum returned to his hometown of Chico and applied for an internship at “the nicest restaurant that I could think of”—Crush. He was hired to make salads and slowly moved up the ranks, working every station in the kitchen and eventually being named head chef.

In talking about food, Lieberum, 27, expresses a passion for creating exciting dishes that are at the same time comforting and sophisticated.

He recently took some time off the line to discuss his inspiration and ideas about food.

What got you into cooking?

What’s your first food memory?

I grew up with a mom who was an amazing home cook. We had dinner every night at 5 o’clock, with the family. I didn’t think that was outside the norm until I went to friends’ houses. Once I figured that out, I began to appreciate it and recognize what a huge thing food was in my life.

I know my favorite food as a kid: pesto pasta. My mom made her own pesto. She had a garden, so we grew our own basil. I always wanted pesto pasta. Which is great, because that’s something we serve here, we make our own pesto from scratch here, too, so it resonates with me.

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Crush

201 Broadway, Ste. 200 342-7000 chicocrush.com

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Do you get to use any of your family recipes at Crush?

I have. There’s not necessarily anything on the menu that I ate growing up, but we do fresh specials every weekend, so I’ve definitely adapted my mom’s recipes on a few occasions. I’ve even invited her in here and fed them to her to see what she thought.

How have things changed in the past seven years?

With [Executive Chef] Jason [Colabove], he’s one of those people who’s always moving, always going, always trying to push us forward in terms of not only food, but we’re always putting money back into the restaurant— whether it’s our wine list, which I think really sets us apart in Chico, or our menu. We really try to get some special stuff in here. We want it to be a place where people come and have an experience, to try something new that you don’t get very often.

1/2 OFF

BREAKFAST

Buy any breakfast, get the 2nd breakfast of equal or lesser value for 1/2 price

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2006 – 2016

Mon-Sat from 6am-11am Not valid with any other discounts Expires 9-29-17 2234 The Esplanade @ Cohasset • 343-7000 OPEN DAILY 6am–10pm

2525 Dominic Drive on Skyway • 342-7771 Sun-Thurs 6am–9pm, Fri-Sat 6am-10pm

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What’s your favorite thing on the menu?

I’d say my favorite things to make on the menu are probably salads.

I like the hands-on—we really toss all of our own salads. And every one is built up. The Tuscan Kale Salad is really great. It was something that I wasn’t sure about—a lot of people don’t like kale. But ours really changed my mind about that.

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Any ingredients you just can’t live without?

Here, we use amazing extra virgin olive oil that we get from Orland— it’s called Olinda. It turns out, it’s the same kind my parents used. My mom went out to find the best olive oil to have in our house and they used to buy it a gallon at a time because that’s the only way they could get it. And then, I come to find out that that’s the olive oil we use here—it’s kind of funny.

What would be your last meal?

I’d have to say pesto pasta. It always brings me back.

—Meredith J. Cooper mere dit hc@ n ew s r ev i ew . com

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10 Open Daily till 10pm • 178 E. 7th St Chico, CA www.shuberts.com • 530.342.7163 SAVOR

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DINING LIST continued from page 7

Sushi King & Boba Tea Zone Home of the sushi burrito. Also serving traditional sushi, boba tea and slushies. Drive-thru available. 2190 Esplanade, 892-8688 $

Teriyaki House A Japanese fast-food restaurant specializing in teriyaki. 236 W. East Ave., 894-6127; 2454 Notre Dame Blvd., 343-3744, www.teriyaki housechico.com $

Thai Basil All dishes made with fresh vegetables and choice of meat (vegetarian available) and spice level. Lunch, Monday-Friday; dinner, ThursdaySaturday. Closed Sunday. 121 Broadway, 343-6843 $$

Country Waffles Specializing in, you guessed it, waffles. Breakfast and lunch daily.

2485 Notre Dame Blvd., 345-9905 $

Farmer’s Skillet Classic breakfast and lunch menu, served 6 a.m.-3 p.m. daily.

690 Rio Lindo Ave., 345-1149 $$

Italian Cottage Restaurant Serving delicious omelets since 1970. Also: eggs Benedict, cottage potatoes, fresh-cooked spinach, French toast, homemade biscuits and gravy, Belgian waffles, blueberry pancakes and hash browns. 2234 Esplanade, 343-7000; 2525 Dominic Drive, 342-7771, www.theitalian cottage.com $$

Mom’s

Good food, large portions. Recently relocated from East Avenue to Nord. 305 Nord Ave., 342-8842 $$

Satisfy cravings for Mom’s home-cooked specialties morning, noon or evening. Featuring breakfast favorites, fresh salads and sandwiches and delicious supper creations. Conveniently located near campus.

209 Salem St., 893-3447, www.momschico.com $$

Tong Fong Low

Morning Thunder Café

Thai Express

Offering authentic Chinese cuisine that locals can’t stop raving about.

2072 E. 20th St., 898-1388, tongfonglow.com $$

Vietnam Bistro Fresh, authentic Vietnamese food, from summer and spring rolls to vermicelli soup. Patio seating available. 788 East Ave., 433-7108 $

Windy’s Chinese Restaurant Serving a variety of Asian favorites, beer and wine. 1000 W. Sacramento Ave., 343-1788 $

Wok ’n’ Roll Serving popular Chinese entrees and Hawaiian barbecue. Fast and delicious combos to keep your wallet and belly full. Sushi rolls starting at less than $5. 1008 W. Sacramento Ave., 892-1868, $

Breakfast Nooks

Chico’s popular breakfast (and lunch) café at the foot of Bidwell Park.

352 Vallombrosa Ave., 342-9717 $-$$

Nash’s 7th Avenue Omelette House Unique omelet selections made with fresh and local ingredients, as well as traditional breakfast fare. 1717 Esplanade, 896-1147, nashsrestaurantchico.com $$

The Roost Café Specialties include eggs Benedict, corned beef hash and Roost burgers. Full espresso bar. Real food, real butter and real good home cooking. Where the locals go! Open daily 6 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Serving breakfast all day and lunch at 11 a.m. 1144 Park Ave., 892-1281 $-$$

Sin of Cortez Enjoy specialty coffees or teas at one of Chico’s favorite breakfast and lunch places. With a full bar, Sin also serves Irish coffees, Bloody Marys, mimosas and more. 2290 Esplanade, 879-9200, www.sinof cortez.com $$

Beatniks Coffee House & Breakfast Joint Serving breakfast every day—with an assortment of Benedicts, omelets, scrambles and excellent huevos rancheros—and a weekday lunch menu of salads, sandwiches and daily specials. 1387 E. Eighth St., 894-2800, www.chicobeatniks.com $-$$

Breakfast Buzz Breakfast burritos, omelets, French toast and more in a college atmosphere. Did somebody say bottomless champagne? 208 Cedar St., 343-3444 $

Brooklyn Bridge Bagel Works Offering 25 types of New York-style bagels and 11 flavors of cream cheese, as well as deli sandwiches and the famous bagel dog. Also serving smoothies and espresso. 117 W. Second St., 345-3443, www.brooklynbridgebagel.com $

Café Coda Locally owned eatery serving breakfast including scrambles, omelets, burritos and more; lunch served weekdays. French-press coffee, espresso, beer and wine. Live jazz brunch on Fridays. 265 Humboldt Ave., 566-9476, www.cafecoda.com $$

Fast Eddie’s

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Burgers, Delis & Dogs Alpaca Bob’s Sandwich Adventures Unique sandwiches and other menu items, such as Thai dogs, Italianstyle paninis, Soviet sauce and Cajun hotlinks. 672 Mangrove Ave., 342-3456 $

Beach Hut Deli A variety of specialty sandwiches served up in a casual, beach-themed atmosphere. 146 W. Second St., 893-0633, www.beachhutdeli.com. $$

Big Al’s Drive In Milkshakes are a triple-thick treat at this longtime Chico favorite.

1844 Esplanade, 342-2722 $

Big Chico Burger A casual restaurant serving chuck patties, hot dogs, sandwiches and salads. 1550 East Ave., 891-6100, www.bigchicoburger.info $

Burger Hut Burgers Serving ground beef with no hormones and no antibiotics. All food is cooked to order and burgers are basted with Burger Hut signature barbecue sauce, paired with piping hot fries or onion rings and thick milkshakes. 3211 Cohasset Road, 342-4555; 2451 Forest Ave., 891-1430, www.burgerhut.com $

The Cheesesteak Shop

Restaurant, Tapas, & Bar FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1975

Seafood •SteakS • Lamb bbQ RibS •QuaiL •ChiCken

Philly-style cheesesteak sandwiches made with rib-eye steak. Chicken options, too. 995 Nord Ave., 345-2565, www.cheesesteakshop.com $

Chico Locker & Sausage Co. Check out this full deli with a variety of sandwiches and salads, and pick up some traditional handmade sausage and specialty meats.

196 E. 14th St., 343-7370, www.chicolockersausage.com $

The Dog House Serving charcoal-grilled gourmet hot dogs and sausages, as well as burgers and sandwiches. Two locations. 1008 W. Sacramento Ave., 894-3641; 1354 East Ave., 894-2242, chicodoghouse.com $

Fast Eddie’s Recently relocated near Pleasant Valley High School, featuring tri-tip and pulled-pork sandwiches in addition to a large menu of specialty burgers and sandwiches, taters, flatbread pizzas and salads. 1175 East Ave., 342-8555, www.fasteddieschico.com $

Ike’s Place Serving up an eclectic menu of hot sandwiches, all with Ike’s signature “dirty sauce.” Vegan options available.

648 W. Fifth St., 924-3171, www.ilikeikes place.com/chico $

Jersey Mike’s Subs An impressive menu of sub sandwiches, wraps and salads. 605 Mangrove Ave., 891-0117, www.jerseymikes.com $

Kathy’s Deli Delicious Philly cheesesteak and hot pastrami sandwiches, along with a selection of American, Asian and

(530) 891-5204

3355 Esplanade Chico, Ca. 95926 Wednesday - Sunday Open at 5:00 p.m.

Closed Monday and Tuesday

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DINING LIST continued on page 12 SAVOR

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DINING LIST continued from page 11

Zot’s Hot Dogs and Deli

Mediterranean dishes all with Southeast Asian flair. Serving pho, handrolled noodles and egg rolls Mon.-Sat. 671 Walnut St., 343-5925 $

The last original tenant of the Garden Walk Mall (for over 40 years!) in downtown Chico, mom-and-pop shop Zot’s Hot Dogs and Deli offers tradition, quality and affordability. 225 Main St. (inside Garden Walk Mall), 345-2820, www.zotsdogs.webs.com $

Kinder’s Custom Meats & Deli Try the marinated ball-tip steak sandwich, a Kinder’s specialty. Catering available. 221 Normal Ave., 342-3354, www.kindersbbq.com $$

Kona’s Hot and cold fresh-made sandwiches, homemade soups and cookies.

Also offering 3- to 6-foot party subs for any occasion. 138 Main St., 893-4344; 965 Nord Ave., 894-1635 $

Nobby’s Their motto is, “Nobody does burgers better than Nobby’s.” Ask them about their “cheese skirt.” Now serving cheesesteak sandwiches.

Closed Sunday and Monday. 1444 Park Ave., 342-2285 $

Oasis Bar & Grill Home of the famous “O Burger,” with patties hand-pressed daily, plus a selection of sandwiches, salads and traditional pub grub. Pool tables and plenty of televisions to satisfy your sports cravings as well.

1007 W. First St., 343-4305 $

Pita Pit From falafel to Philly cheesesteak, they roll pitas with your choice of meats, fresh veggies, cheeses and sauces. 240 Broadway, 899-2847, www.pitapitusa.com $

Port of Subs Sliced fresh sandwiches! 2036 Forest Ave. (inside the Sinclair gas station), 895-1780 $

S & S Barbeque & Deli Barbecue lunch and dinner items to go or eat there at the picnic tables. 1924 Mangrove Ave., 343-4930, www.ssproduce.net $

Smokin’ Mo’s BBQ Family-owned Southern-style barbecue, Smokin’ Mo’s is a fixture in downtown Chico. Ribs, chicken, tri-tip and more, all slow-smoked for hours. Plus, four savory barbecue sauces to slather on your favorite “Q.” 131 Broadway, 891-6677, www.smokinmosbbq.com $$

Casual Dining

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Applebee’s Grill & Bar Famous for barbecue riblets, grilled steaks and Oriental chicken salad.

2030 Business Lane, 343-6888, applebees.com $$

Chili

B Street Public House Delicious gastropub fare, along with an extensive list of craft brews and specialty cocktails. Plus, brunch. Closed Monday. 117 Broadway, 899-8203, www.bstreetpub.com $$

Bacio Catering, Carry Out & Biz Box A popular south Chico eatery that turns out an array of healthful, seasonal, local and delicious food. Take home or dine in. Catering and Biz Box lunch deliveries available. 1903 Park Ave., 345-7787, www.baciocatering.com $$

Bellachino’s Espresso & Panini Café Espresso and coffee, breakfast and lunch wraps and sandwiches, soups, gourmet salads and pastries. Garden patio, on-site bakery and catering. 800 Bruce Road, 892-2244 $$

Bidwell Bar & Grill Located at the Bidwell Park Golf Course in Upper Bidwell Park. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with appetizers and a full bar. Sandwiches, burgers, salads and wraps. Open at 7 a.m. Monday-Thursday and 6 a.m. Friday-Sunday, closes at 5 p.m. 3199 Golf Course Road, 891-8417, golfbidwellpark.com $

Big Hot Crab A Cajun-style seafood restaurant on the edge of downtown. They serve shrimp in a bag! Great place for small groups, and prepare to

A longtime Chico fave, Spiteri’s serves a variety of sandwiches, along with daily specialty salads, beer and wine. Closed Sunday. 971 East Ave., 891-4797, www.spiterisdeli.com $

SubStation Deli Enjoy delicious subs made with fresh-baked rolls. Also serving fresh soup, chili and salads. 2404 Park Ave., 343-9178, www.substation chico.com $

Subway “Eat fresh!” Multiple locations, www.subway.com $

Togo’s Sandwiches, soups and salads. Catering, too. 241 W. East Ave., 891-1131; 2009 Forest Ave., 345-7331, www.togos.com $

Wingman Chico Jumbo wings, with sauce or dry rub flavors all named after famous duos (Bonnie and Clyde, Lennon and McCartney). Try the chimichurri fries or cheese curds and finish with a deep-fried Twinkie. No joke.

Delivery available through Entree Espress. 1008 W. Sacramento Ave., in the Safeway shopping center, 895-9464 $$

Wingstop

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Spiteri’s Delicatessen

Wingstop sauces and tosses its wings in a choice of 10 mouth-watering flavors. Not fast food—these wings are made with care and served up piping hot. 734 Mangrove Ave., 332-9464 $$

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Broadway Heights California Cuisine Whether you’re in the mood for a gourmet salad or something comforting like Cajun meatloaf, Broadway Heights doesn’t disappoint.

Enjoy it all daily with a bird’s-eye view of downtown Chico. Plus, happy hour specials. Now serving Sunday brunch. 300 Broadway, 899-8075, broadwayheightschico.com $$

Cabana Café Inside In Motion Fitness, Cabana Café offers delicious paninis, wraps and grilled dishes, as well as a large salad bar and frozen yogurt.

1293 E. First Ave., 893-2233 $

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Panera Bread Soup, sandwiches, baked goods and salads. 1910 E. 20th St., 894-5009, www.panerabread.com $

Pelican’s Roost Chowder House Serving clam chowder and a wide variety of seafood and seasonal specials at affordable prices. 1354 East Ave., 899-2762 $$

Pluto’s Fast and fresh food, made to order in downtown Chico. Salad bar, sandwiches, fries, hot sides and carved meats. 201 Main St., 343-0165, plutosfreshfood.com $

The Pour House

Everything from steaks and margaritas to baby-back ribs. 1908 E. 20th St., 345-1687, www.chilis.com $$

New American cuisine served in a tasteful-yet-casual atmosphere featuring a full bar, several taps of craft beer and a big selection of wines by the glass. The patio’s features a huge screen for outdoor viewing.

855 East Ave., 893-3000, www.chicopourhouse.com $$

CJ’s Last Chance Diner

Red Lobster

Chili’s Grill & Bar

Come in for some of the best smoked barbecue in town and burgers made fresh every day. Pure taste-bud-satisfying deliciousness. (Try their food truck, Ike’s Smokehouse, too!) 13670 Anderson Brothers Drive, 343-1901 $

Foodie Café Opened by the folks behind Chico Catering Co., this eatery by the airport offers a unique dining experience, from the repurposed furnishings to the eclectic breakfast and lunch items. Features specialized menus for hashes, burgers and sliders. Open Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.3 p.m. 999 Marauder St., 433-5539, www.thefoodiecafe.com $

Fresh Twisted Café Also known as Hernandez Farms, Fresh Twisted Café offers fresh juices and nondairy smoothies that locals have come to love. Also serving up sandwiches and organic beef burgers. 156 Eaton Road, 809-2489 $

Great Harvest Bread Co. Serving fresh-baked breads and pastries as well as sandwiches, panini, salads and soup. Closed Sunday. Multiple locations, www.greatharvestchico.com $

Hudson’s Gastropub This north Chico hotspot offers an eclectic menu of small plates, pizzas and burgers alongside an impressive wine and beer list in a chic environment. 2760 Esplanade, 636-4562. $$

Logan’s Roadhouse From the rustic atmosphere, country music and all the sports you can watch on the many flat-screen TVs, Logan’s is the place to be.

1900 E. 20th St., 891-1098, www.logansroad house.com $$

OM Foods

Fresh fish, steak, pasta and seafood in a family environment.

2010 Business Lane, 893-5595, www.redlobster.com $$$

Scotty’s Landing Try a River Burger, fish and chips or a homemade soup and salad on Scotty’s deck overlooking the Sacramento River. 12609 River Road, 710-2020 $

T. Tea Bar & Fusion Café A selection of more than 40 teas and fusion favorites including hoisin barbecue salmon, London broil, pork tenderloin, sweet chili chicken bowls and wraps. 250 Vallombrosa Ave., 895-8100; and 555 Flying V St., Ste. 1, 809-1545, tbarchico.com $

Tin Roof Bakery & Café Long known for its hand-crafted breads, Tin Roof’s popular café serves upscale pastries, artisan sandwiches, healthful salads and fine coffees. 627 Broadway, 892-2893 $

Upper Crust Bakery & Eatery Serving fine pastries, cakes and pies from scratch, as well as lunch entrees, house-made soups, espresso and teas. Urban patio seating available. 130 Main St., 895-3866, www.uppercrustchico.com $

Coffee Houses Arabica Cafe This cozy downtown coffee shop offers an array of caffeinated beverages, including Turkish coffees, and serves up a selection of freshmade baked goods, sandwiches and personal-size pizzas as well.

142 Broadway, 592-3993. $

Fresh, healthy, organic, vegetarian and vegan-friendly food stand. 1008 W. Sacramento Ave., in the Safeway parking lot, 228-4074, www.facebook.com/omfoodstm $

Bidwell Perk

Outback Steakhouse

Serving pastries, teas and espresso drinks. Multiple locations, www.caljavacoffee.com $

Serving fresh steaks, seafood and chicken in an Australian-themed setting. 1990 E. 20th St., 899-8112, www.outback.com $$

PaCoo

Serving coffee, tea and delectables in a café-style setting. Also features a wine bar. 664 E. First Ave., 899-1500, www.bidwellperk.com $

Cal Java Coffee Roasters Chico Coffee Co. Conveniently located near the DMV. Serving breakfast and lunch.

107 Parmac Road, 592-3193 $

Fresh, reasonably priced food and coffee as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner. 642 W. Fifth St., 487-7228 $ DINING LIST continued on page 17 SAVOR

13

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Amanda Leveroni PhOtO By MeRedith J. COOPeR

Catering to Chico Bacio owner and head chef, Amanda Leveroni

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manda Leveroni has been drawn to cooking since she was a child growing up in a “foodie family” in Tampa. After a few moves and plenty of restaurant jobs, she settled in Chico and started a business of her own. Leveroni opened Bacio in 1984, making and selling gourmet raviolis inspired by her in-laws’ traditional Italian recipes.

Soon, Leveroni—now, out of necessity, as much businesswoman as chef—progressed into catering, where Bacio’s top-quality service made a name for itself.

Bacio Catering has now been a staple of the Chico community for more than 30 years. Leveroni prides herself on serving real food—fresh, healthy, delicious and locally sourced whenever possible—with attention to detail when it comes to ingredients as well as presentation. Ten years ago, Leveroni

14 SAVOR

moved Bacio to its current location on Park Avenue and opened a carry-out counter where hungry patrons can come in for healthy take-home meals. She also offers Biz Box lunches, with convenient delivery for office get-togethers.

Leveroni recently took time from her busy weekday schedule to talk about her approach to cooking and growing up around food.

What’s your first food memory?

German potato salad at Schiller’s German Delicatessen in Florida when I was about 8 years old. I used to ride my bike down to this deli and get this potato salad that was crazy delicious. I would do chores around the house and save money—yes, at 8, we were that kind of family—and Cheese and charcuterie display.

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Bacio catering, carry out & Biz Box

Authentic South Indian Cuisine

1903 Park Ave. 345-7787 baciochico.com

my goal was to go and get a half pint of this German potato salad; it was … crazy good.

Shrimp, Lamb & Pakoras, Vegetarian & Non-vegetarian Curries, Tandoori & Biriyani Entrees

How would you describe your approach to food?

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What’s your favorite item on your menu?

That’s really hard. We do a lot with local grains, and so there are some grain salads that I love.

Our lentil quinoa is one of my favorites. We do a Chico rice salad that’s also super delicious.

What I typically do is take a bowl of greens and go out front and put a scoop of lentil quinoa, a scoop of vegetables, and maybe some roasted nuts and a nice dressing and maybe a piece of salmon. Our menu always rotates, I don’t really have one favorite!

2007-2016

2574 Esplanade • 530-899-1055 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Lunch: 11am - 2:30pm • Dinner: 5pm - 9:30pm

• LaRocca Vineyards • Quilici Vineyards • Doe Mill Vineyards • Grant Eddie Winery • Orland Farmstead Creamery • Berkeley Olive • Tin Roof Bakery

COOPeR

16

16

Consistently Delicious!

SICILIAN CAFE Since 1984 1020 Main St • Chico • 345-CAFE • Dinner Tue-Sun at 5pm • Gale Vineyards • Anchordoguy Olive Oil • S & S Organic Produce • West Coast Products •

What would be your last meal?

Probably a bowl of Vietnamesestyle noodles with crispy shallots and peanuts, cilantro and mint, and a little bit of fish. Just clean and fresh. I know it sounds freakish not being chocolate or something—I’ve just always loved that Southeast Asian fresh cuisine.

Are there any ingredients you just can’t live without?

I couldn’t live without olive oil, lemon, garlic, tamari, onions and a good vinegar. Those are my goto’s. Another thing I use as a go-to is nutritional yeast—it’s got an umami flavor that I really like and it’s good for you. It’s wonderful in a salad dressing, it has a real depth of flavor.

Comanche Creek Farms • GRUB • Bertagna Son Kissed Vineyards

veroni

I start with what’s in season so that it’s always going to be at its peak, and build from that. You essentially can’t ever go wrong. All the stuff that’s trending now has really been important to me for years. The importance of seasonality and freshness, lots of those trite terms that you hear all the time now—green, farm-to-fork, quality of ingredients, and so on— it’s always been important to me, and key for anything that I ever do.

Sin a little.

You Deserve it!

NOW OFFERING BLOODY MARYS, IRISH COFFEE, MIMOSAS & MORE! A BETTER CLASS OF FOOD

FOOD & BAR CATERING AVAILABLE

2290 Esplanade, Chico 530.879.9200 www.sinofcortezchico.com

—Josh Cozine SAVOR

15

apanese Blossoms will be celebrating their 10th anniversary on September 7th. With an incredibly warm and welcoming staff, elegant dining area, and beautifully prepared sushi and other Japanese specialties, it is easy to see why Japanese Blossoms was voted Best Sushi Restaurant in 2015 and 2016 and has also been in the running for Best Local Restaurant, Best Asian Cuisine, Best Food Server, and Best Chef. The recognition and support from the community is what drives everyone at Japanese Blossoms to continuously provide great service and offer fresh, local and sustainable products. It is a source of pride for owner Jeramie Sabelman, who purchased the restaurant almost 2 years ago, to live in such an incredible area, where local and fresh produce can be offered to customers year round. All of the fish served at Japanese Blossoms

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is sustainably caught and in season.

Before Jeramie took ownership of the restaurant, he served as sushi chef and kitchen manager for 6 years, and has been in the restaurant industry for over 24 years. He has always loved sushi and Japanese cuisine and now has the ability to open new doors and create new and exciting flavors. Japanese Blossoms has something for everyone, from the sushi aficionado to the sushi novice. You will even find menu items such as chicken stir fry and braised beef short ribs. Be sure to check out Monday Happy Hour, which runs all evening from 5pm- close. Everyone at Japanese Blossoms looks forward to the future as phase one of their expansion project, which includes an expanded lounge area, amongst other things, is almost complete. The second phase will hopefully be finished by the end of the year!

Japanese Blossoms 2995 Esplanade #104 530.891.9022 | japaneseblossoms.com

FineDining iN A BEAuTiFul, rElAxEd ATmoSpHErE

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Amazing wine list, innovative food and specialty cocktails.

The perfect destination for dinner, special events, parties and meeting friends.

Tues - Sun 5 pm to close Sun Brunch 10am-2pm • Happy Hour All Night Tues & 4-6 Thurs - Fri 1250 Esplanade • Chico • 530.894.3463 • www.redtavern.com 16 SAVOR

DINING LIST continued from page 13

Starbucks

Code 3 Coffee

Serving coffee, espresso and pastries at a corner near you. Multiple locations, www.starbucks.com $

A newer coffee spot on the north end of town, complete with two drive-through windows and a walk-up. Locally owned by Chico police officers, all the drinks are law-enforcement-themed. 13407 Garner Lane, 327-0121, code3coffee.com $

Coffee Ranch Featuring Pablo’s Coffee, finely crafted espresso drinks, tea, fresh baked goods and protein smoothies. Outside patio seating and a dog run, too. Open daily. 1288 E. First Ave., Ste. 100, 809-9338, www.coffeeranchchico.com $

EclEctic Eats Ali Baba

Dutch Bros. Coffee

Mediterranean restaurant specializing in falafel, shwarma and kebabs.

Also serving at Argus Bar + Patio. 138 Broadway St., 345-5000, www.alibabachico.com $

A drive-thru featuring mochas, lattes, smoothies, the “Dutch Freeze” and various baked treats. Multiple locations. dutchbros.com $

Cafe Petra Mediterranean Cuisine

Visit a restored 1940s passenger train car for handcrafted, organic specialty coffee and tea. Rotating display of local art. 434 Orange St., 899-8267 $

Delicious traditional Mediterranean fare, from hummus and falafel to shwarma and kufta, all in a fresh, modern dining space downtown.

Offering an extensive menu of appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrees and desserts. Open daily for lunch and dinner. 163 E. Second St., 717-6789 $$

Has Beans Creekside

Crepeville

Great Northern

Cozy coffee roastery and bakery serving specialty coffees and teas.

Large patio with outdoor seating. Delivery available. 1080 Humboldt Ave., 345-6379 $

A wide variety of savory and sweet crepes, plus an extensive omelet and sandwich menu. 240 Main St., 809-0042, www.crepeville.com $$

It’s a Grind Coffee House A cozy café with espresso, coffee, iced drinks, teas and a variety of bagels and pastries. 6 W. Eaton Road, 332-9250, $

Indian-Pakistani appetizers, entrées, desserts and specialty drinks served in a café setting across the street from Chico State. 230 Salem St., 891-3570, www.gogiscafe.webs.com $

Java Detour

Inday’s Filipino Food

Gogi’s Café

Gourmet espresso and coffee, fresh pastries and bagels. 995 Nord Ave., 895-0878 $

Kamayan loosely translates into “shake hands,” but in terms of food it refers to eating with your hands, a centuries-old tradition that can still be seen today. Inday’s features Filipino specialties, from pork adobo to lumpia to halang halang. Breakfast and lunch daily in addition to dinner and brunch on weekends. Plus, find Inday’s food cart at local events. 1043 W. Eighth St., 520-2593, indays.weebly.com $

Naked Lounge Tea & Coffeehouse

Priya Indian Cuisine

A drive-thru offering espresso, coffee drinks, smoothies and Italian sodas. 1055 Mangrove Ave., 893-2828; 2519 Esplanade, 566-9556 $

Mondo’s Café

Serving mouthwatering mochas, cappuccinos and fresh-brewed coffees along with premium loose-leaf teas and gluten-free treats.

118 W. Second St., 895-0676 $

Peet’s Coffee & Tea Coffee, tea, pastries and candy. 145 Main St., 894-6716, www.peets.com $

Specializing in northern and southern Indian cuisine, served in a comfortable setting. Try the lunch buffet. 2574 Esplanade, 899-1055 $$

Ready Chef Go Bistro & Market Food that is local, fresh and sustainable. Ready Chef Go Bistro & Market has a deep appreciation for what Mother Nature provides for us. Check out the burger bar! 980 Mangrove Ave., 806-2634, $-$$

Roots Restaurant & Catering A breakfast and lunch restaurant specializing in cuisine from the many tastes of the world, including entrees from over 15 food cultures. Authentic food, exceptional service. Open 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Mon.-Fri., and till 1 p.m.

Sunday. Closed Saturday.

3221 Esplanade, 891-4500, www.rootscatering.com $$

Sipho’s Restaurant & Café Fresh, spicy, healthy Jamaican fare served at a groovy eatery on the edge of town. Patio dining available and occasional live reggae music.

1228 Dayton Road, 895-1866, www.siphosjamaica.com $$

Cafe Petra Mediterranean Cuisine DINING LIST continued on page 18 SAVOR

17

DINING LIST continued from page 17

Sultan’s Bistro Reopened in 2017 under new ownership, Sultan’s Bistro is returning to its roots with recipes from the original owners. Specialties range from shwarma gyros to falafel. Vegan options available. Check the schedule for belly dance shows. 300 Broadway, 345-7455 $

Urban Fresh Fuel A burrito place unlike most other burrito places, with flavors like barbecue and cajun and ingredients like artichoke hearts, pineapple and bell peppers. Traditional-style also available. 301 Main St., 487-7165 $

Fine Dining

nightly (except Sunday). 1717 Esplanade, 896-1147, www.nashs restaurantchico.com $$

Red Tavern Offering delicious and innovative dishes based on influences from all over the world. Fresh, locally grown, seasonal, organic produce and meats. Full bar, including an extensive wine list, craft beer and creative signature cocktails. Relaxing outdoor patio, with a bocce court, all-night happy hour on Tuesdays and live music April-October.

1250 Esplanade, 894-3463, redtavern.com $$$

Sicilian Café A Chico favorite offering a variety of antipasti, seafood, pastas, chicken, veal and beef, decadent desserts and an extensive wine list.

1020 Main St., 345-2233, www.siciliancafe.com $$$

Sierra Nevada Taproom & Restaurant Bistro fare, award-winning ales and lagers, and an excellent wine list.

1075 E. 20th St., 345-2739, www.sierranevada.com $$-$$$

5th Street Steakhouse A full-service steakhouse featuring USDA prime beef, fresh seafood, house-made desserts and an extensive wine list. 345 W. Fifth St., 8916328, www.5thstreetsteakhouse.com $$$

Cooking class at Leon Bistro

Basque Norte Family-owned since 1975, Basque Norte offers steak, lamb, chicken, quail, barbecued ribs and seafood served family-style in a rustic Basque atmosphere. 3355 Esplanade, 891-5204, www.basque norte.com $$$

Christian Michaels Ristorante Featuring a California-style, Mediterranean and Italian menu, with a full bar and extensive wine list. Happy hour, 4-6 p.m. daily. Reservations recommended. 192 E. Third St., 894-4005, www.chicochristian michaels.com $$$

Leon Bistro Freshly prepared California bistro cuisine made from locally sourced and organic ingredients. Menu items include steaks, fish, poultry and vegetarian options. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Inquire about the cooking class schedule. 817 Main St., 899-1105, www.leonbistro.com $$$

Nash’s Restaurant Fresh, creative, California cuisine with casual and fine-dining options.

Breakfast weekdays, brunch weekends. Lunch weekdays, dinner

Let’s

CeLebrate the CN&r’s party guide shows you how to throw a great party!

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Let’s

CeLebrate

Chico News & review’s party guide

tips for planning your next part y, including:

Venues rentals Food & More!

18 SAVOR

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Two Twenty Restaurant Located inside the Hotel Diamond, Two Twenty offers an eclectic menu of steak and seafood, gourmet burgers and pizzas. Breakfast daily, brunch on weekends, happy hour Tuesday-Saturday and dinner nightly. 220 W. Fourth St., 895-1515, www.twotwentyrestaurant.com $$-$$$

Unwined at 980 Restaurant/lounge specializing in roasted wood-fired specialties from starters to meals. Plus, more than 60 different wines from around the world as well as craft beers on tap. 980 Mangrove Ave., 809-2634, unwinedat980.com $$$

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A renovated early-1900s pig barn is the home of this wine bar serving a variety of small plates, including farm-fresh salads, flatbreads and appetizers. Live music on Saturdays. Closed Sunday and Monday.

26 Lost Dutchman Drive, 899-9250, www.winetimechico.com $$

Homestyle Angie’s Bar and Grill Inside Casino 99, Angie’s serves breakfast, lunch and dinner 24 hours a day. 175 E. 20th St., 592-2282 $

Cozy Diner Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner every day. Cozy Diner favorites: crepes, Cobb salad, prime-rib burger, broasted chicken, steak, espresso, beer and wine. 1695 Mangrove Ave., 895-1195, cozydiner chico.com $

Denny’s Straightforward meals served in a family atmosphere. 675 Manzanita Court, 345-1146, www.dennys.com $

International House of Pancakes Breakfast served all day, plus lunch and dinner featuring sandwiches and burgers. 2040 Business Lane, 893-4988, www.ihop.com $

Jack’s Family Restaurant Diner-style food at reasonable prices in a casual atmosphere.

540 Main St., 343-8383 $

Kalico Kitchen Try Kalico’s skillets and breakfast burritos in the morning, club sandwiches and crispy chicken salad for lunch, and chicken-fried steak and house-made meatloaf for dinner. 2396 Esplanade, 343-3968, kalico kitchenchico.com $$

Popeye’s Louisiana Kitchen New Orleans-style fast food, and signature sides. 1161 Mangrove Ave., 332-9322 $

Russell’s Family Restaurant Featuring breakfast, lunch and dinner specials, beer and wine.

185 Cohasset Road, 343-5543 $$

DINING LIST continued on page 26

DELICIOUS INDIAN CUISINE Lunch | Dinner | Dine In | Take Out Catering | Tea | Coffee | Daily Specials | Wine | Beer

230 Salem Street, Chico | 530.891.3570 www.GogisCafe.com SAVOR

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A full-service steakhouse featuring USDA prime beef, fresh seafood and an extensive wine list. Head over for happy hour drinks and their famous sliders.

345 W. Fifth St., 891-6328, www.5thstreet steakhouse.com $$$

★ Argus Bar + Patio One of downtown Chico’s hipper hotspots, Argus offers premium cocktails and food from nearby Mediterranean restaurant Ali Baba. 212 W. Second St., 570-2672 $$

★T

★ B Street Public House Delicious gastropub fare, along with an extensive list of craft brews and specialty cocktails. 117 Broadway, 899-8203, www.bstreetpub.com $$

★ Christian Michaels Ristorante Featuring a California-style Mediterranean and Italian menu, with a full bar and extensive wine list. Afternoon and late-night happy hours. 192 E. Third St., 894-4005, www.chicochristianmichaels.com $$$

★ Crush Specializing in a combination of traditional and contemporary flavors mixed with fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. Known for its happy hour and second-story patio overlooking downtown.

201 Broadway, 342-7000, www.chicocrush.com $$$

★ Franky’s Locally owned for more than 20 years, serving pizza, Italian dishes, beer and wine. Great happy hour, open late on weekends. 506 Ivy St., 898-9948, www.frankyschico.com $$$

20 SAVOR

Christian Michaels Ristorante

LaRocca Vineyards Organic Wine Tasting Room The oldest and largest producer of 100 percent USDA-certified organic wine in the North State offers its selection in a satellite tasting room in downtown Chico.

Open Weds.-Sun. 222 W. Second St., 899-9463, www.laroccavineyards.com

★ The Lost Dutchman Taproom A craft beer bar to complement Wine Time across the parking lot. A small menu of comfort foods, plus 19 beers on tap.

Open Mon.-Sat. 25 Lost Dutchman Drive, www.lostdutchmantaproom.com $$

★ Parkside Tap House One of downtown Chico’s newer, hipper establishments. The bar boasts 24 taps and opens onto a vast outdoor patio, complete with a cornhole setup. Parkside also serves up some killer small plates (including Bella’s wings!). 115 Third St., 632-4875, www.parksidetaphouse.com $$

★ The Pour House American cuisine served in a tasteful-yetcasual atmosphere featuring a full bar, several taps of craft beer and a large selection of wines by the glass. Also featuring a large, swanky patio with a fire pit

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and huge TV screen for catching the big game. 855 East Ave., 893-3000, www.chicopourhouse.com $$-$$$

★ Ramada Plaza Restaurant & Lounge This club inside the Ramada Plaza Hotel serves food, beer, wine and cocktails and typically draws a more mature crowd than the downtown bars. 685 Manzanita Court, 345-2491 $$

★ Sierra Nevada Taproom & Restaurant Bistro fare, world-class ales and lagers, an excellent wine list and a large outdoor patio.

The perfect place to bring visitors to town.

1075 E. 20th St., 345-2739, www.sierra nevada.com $$-$$$

★ Taps Bar & Grill Expected to open in summer 2017, Taps Bar & Grill is Chico’s newest eatery—a sports bar complete with full food service as well as a full bar. Open 11 a.m.-11 p.m. 407 Walnut St., Ste. A. $$

★ Tres Hombres Long Bar & Grill

and appetizers. Live music on Saturdays.

Closed Sunday and Monday. 26 Lost Dutchman Drive, 899-9250, www.winetimechico.com $$-$$$

KEEP IT CASUAL

★ Buffalo Wild Wings All the wings and fries and burgers and beers one could want, along with a healthy serving of sports on multiple TVs. 845 East Ave., 592-3251, www.buffalowildwings.com $$

★ Burgers & Brew Grass-fed beef burgers and a huge selection of world-class brews in a modern downtown setting with a great outdoor patio. 301 Broadway, 879-9100, www.burgersbrew.com $$

★ Café Coda ★ The Banshee Serving up burgers and a variety of other pub eats, along with an impressive menu of draft and bottled beers. Also with a late-night takeout window. 132 W. Second St., 895-9670, www.bansheechico.com $$

★ Bella’s Sports Pub Great pub food and a huge beer selection along with sports on big-screen, high-definition TVs. 134 Broadway, 893-5253, www.bellas sportspubchico.com $

Serving beer and wine, Café Coda hosts livejazz brunches Fridays at 11 a.m. 265 Humboldt Ave., 566-9476, www.cafecoda.com $$

Chico Taproom Serving “craft beer for everyone, from craft beer beginners to craft beer nerds,” with 40 beers on tap. No food service, but customers are encouraged to bring their own meals or snacks. Open Weds.-Mon., lunch-late.

2201 Pillsbury Road, Ste. 114, 774-2943, www.thechicotaproom.com

Tres is a go-to spot for group dinners and date night alike, with a menu full of traditional Mexican favorites along with pastas and steaks. But it’s also Chico’s No. 1 destination for margaritas, with its 120-plus tequilas available at the full bar. Sidewalk-café seating available. Also now features the Blue Agave Room for private gatherings. 100 Broadway, 342-0425, www.treshombreschico.com $$

★ Two Twenty Restaurant The bar and lounge at Two Twenty offers a relaxing hangout spot complete with top shelf cocktails and gourmet appetizers.

Happy hour is from 2:20-6 p.m. and the menu includes zucchini fritters, coconut prawns and Thai chicken pizza. Or, order a gimlet or a Chico Origin (with Chico Chai!) and then head on over to the dining room for dinner. 220 W. Fourth St., inside the Hotel Diamond, 8951515, www.twotwentyrestaurant.com $$$

★ Unwined at 980 Unwined at 980 offers a diverse selection of wines—including flights—alongside a menu of fine-dining fare. The restaurant also hosts winemaker dinners and special-release parties. Also now offers two private banquet rooms. 980 Mangrove Ave., 809-2634, www.unwinedat980.com $$-$$$

★ Wine Time A renovated early-1900s pig barn is the home of this wine bar serving a variety of small plates, including farm-fresh salads, flatbreads

Parkside Tap House

★ Bidwell Bar & Grill A no-frills, casual cafe at the Bidwell Golf Course. Breakfast, lunch—a selection of salads, wraps and burgers—and snacks along with a full bar. Available for rental.

Open 6:30 a.m. Fri.-Sun., 7 a.m. the rest of the week. Closes at 5 p.m. 3199 Golf Course Road, 891-8417, www.golfbidwellpark.com/ bidwell-grill $

★ The DownLo A sports bar with pub grub and sports on TV, The DownLo’s claim to fame is its expansive billiards room with 10 Diamond tables, darts, air hockey and regular live music and openmics. 319 Main St., 892-2473 $

Duffy’s Tavern A local institution, Duffy’s features an oldschool jukebox and an odd medley of wall NIGHTLIFE continued on page 22 SAVOR

21

NIGHTLIFE continued from page 21

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decorations. Wednesday is dance night (10 p.m.), Friday happy hour (4 p.m.) features live traditional Irish music and weekends often feature rowdy concerts and comedy nights. 337 Main St., 343-7718

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★ The End Zone A sports bar serving up more than a dozen appetizers, along with burgers, sandwiches, salads and weekend brunch. 250 Cohasset Road, 345-7330, www.endzonechico.com $

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★ The Handle Bar Offering a German-inspired pub menu to complement a large selection of specialty craft beers. An expansion is expected to be completed by the end of summer 2017.

2070 E. 20th St., 894-2337, handlebar chico.com $$

Quackers Fire Bar & Grill

★ Ta

Joe’s Bar Joe’s Bar maintains its down-home atmosphere in the south campus neighborhood, with wood chips on the floor and friendly bartenders. 749 W. Fifth St., 894-3612

★ Madison Bear Garden Enjoy mouth-watering burgers and sandwiches and a selection of draft beers and cocktails. Open every day, right next to campus. Fun décor, billiards upstairs and a great outdoor patio. 316 W. Second St., 891-1639, www.madisonbeargarden.com $

★ Monstros Pizza

★ Park Avenue Pub

This pizzeria has established itself as the go-to spot for punk-rock shows catering to punks of all ages. 628 W. Sacramento Ave., 345-7672, www.monstrospizza.com $

Features half-pound, ground-prime burgers, fresh-cut french fries, killer tots and a full bar. Catering available. 2010 Park Ave., 893-3500, www.parkavepub.net $

★ Oasis Bar & Grill

★ Quackers Fire Bar & Grill

“Chico’s oldest college beer joint” serves up great hand-pressed burgers, munchies and sandwiches and boasts seven pool tables— and regular leagues and tournaments—19 flat-screen TVs and a full bar. 1007 W. First St., 343-4305, www.oasisbarandgrill.net $

★ Panama Bar & Café

Maltese Bar & Tap Room This south Chico watering hole’s stainlesssteel and wood décor gives it the look of a classic neighborhood bar. It also boasts a nice patio and is one of the best places in Chico to enjoy live music and eclectic entertainment. 1600 Park Ave., 343-4915, www.themaltesebar.com

Offering appetizers and American pub food (including 31 burgers), along with a full bar stocked with a huge selection of teas made stiff. Opens to the Beach around the corner on weekends after 9 p.m. 177 E. Second St., 895-8817, www.panamabarcafeinchico.com $

BURGERS, BEERS, TV’S & CHEERS!!

Home of the Original Buck Night Sunday Champagne Brunch 9:30AM–1PM

Delicious Burgers Breakfast · Lunch · Bar

702 W. 5th St • Chico

22 SAVOR

This n hosts outdo

530.343.RILY (7459)

A bar with a nice dance floor far from downtown, Quackers serves a full menu of pubgrub favorites. Karaoke and DJ dancing. Has a spacious billiards room—and an L-shaped pool table! In the process of expanding to include a card room as well, expected to open in fall 2017. 968 East Ave., 895-3825 $

★ Riley’s Bar & Grill Inexpensive pub-grub eats along with a full bar at this locally owned student hotspot. 702 W. Fifth St., 343-7459, www.rileysbar.com $

★ Scotty’s Landing Off the beaten path, Scotty’s is where river

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rats go to drink a cold one and munch on something from the grill, or sing the night away during karaoke. 12609 River Road, 710-2020 $

★ Sipho’s Restaurant & Café Fresh, spicy, healthy Jamaican fare served at an island-style eatery on the edge of town.

Vegetarian-friendly. Dine inside or chill out on the patio, where Sipho’s holds occasional allday reggae concerts and buffets. 1228 Dayton Road, 895-1866, www.siphosjamaica.com $$

Studio Inn Cocktail Lounge This no-frills bar on the north end of town hosts live bands for dancing and has an outdoor patio. 2582 Esplanade, 343-0662

★ Tackle Box Bar & Grill

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A south Chico hotspot featuring exotic appetizers like frog legs and fried alligator, along with traditional breakfast, lunch and dinner options and a full bar. Live music, line dancing and pool tables, too. 379 E. Park Ave., 345-7499, www.tackleboxchico.com $

★ University Sports Bar

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★ The Winchester Goose The Winchester Goose is first and foremost a craft beer bar. But in case you need something to go along with that IPA, saison or barrel-aged imperial stout, there’s an eclectic food menu, too. 800 Broadway, 715-0099, www.thewinchestergoose.com $$

★ Woodstock’s Pizza Pizza, cold beer on tap, fresh salads, sandwiches, appetizers and desserts. Sports on TV and trivia night Wednesdays. Open till 1 a.m. Thursday-Saturday, midnight the rest of the week. 166 E. Second St., 893-1500, www.woodstockschico.com $

dance floor and access to The University Sports Bar and Panama Bar & Cafe.

191 E. Second St., 898-9898, thebeachin chico.com

Crazy Horse Saloon This large bar specializes in country music.

There’s occasional live music and even a mechanical bull to ride (after you sign some legal paperwork). 303 Main St., 894-5408

Lost on Main This bar and nightclub features local acts in addition to big-name, dance-friendly touring bands at its spacious downtown location.

Also, they have lasers! 319 Main St., 891-1853

★ Peking Chinese Restaurant

Clubbin’ The Beach The Beach features a swanky VIP area on the second floor, complete with couches and bottle service. Downstairs, you’ll find a large

A Chinese restaurant by day, Peking transforms into a full-fledged dance venue on Friday nights during BassMint, a weekly electronic music showcase. 243 W. Second St., 895-3888, www.facebook.com/ bassmintchico $ NIGHTLIFE continued on page 24

The U-Bar is a popular basement hangout located on the corner of Wall and Second streets downtown. Recently refurbished to include large-screen TVs along with the pool tables and other games regulars have grown to love. Now serving pub grub! 191 E. Second St., 898-0630, www.theubarinchico.com $

Waganupa Brewing Waganupa is a satellite tasting room for the Chester-based brewery. The hidden spot on Longfellow Avenue is open WednesdaySaturday and offers beers by the pint and flight. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own food. 1346 Longfellow Ave., 259-3705, www.waganupa.com

Bella’s Sports Pub

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23

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NIGHTLIFE continued from page 23

CASINOS Casino 99 This card room on the south side of town offers blackjack, casino games and pub grub. 1414 Park Ave., 892-2282

Feather Falls Casino With gaming aplenty, this casino frequently welcomes touring musicians and other entertainers. Eat at the cafe or buffet and stay the night at The Lodge, which has a fitness center and an indoor/outdoor swimming pool area. Check out the Feather Falls Casino Brewing Co., featuring housebrewed beers, gourmet food (including fresh sushi and sashimi) and more live music. 3 Alverda Drive, Oroville, 533-3855, www.featherfallscasino.com

Gold Country Casino A casino boasting an 87-room hotel, plenty of gaming, and an array of other entertainment options, including karaoke, bowling, comedy night, live music and wide-screen TVs. The facility also has a steakhouse, buffet, café and an espresso bar. 4020 Olive Highway, Oroville, (800) 803-1911, www.goldcountrycasino.com

24 SAVOR

Rolling Hills Casino

Fusion Hookah Lounge

In addition to gaming and a variety of dining options, this complex just off I-5 in Corning offers duck hunting at the nearby Clear Creek Hunting Club and golf at Sevillano Links, an 18-hole John Daly Signature course in the Scottish links style. 2655 Barham Ave., Corning, 528-3500, www.rollinghillscasino.com

No booze here—just hookahs, lots and lots of hookahs. Hang out inside or chill on the outdoor patio and enjoy one of dozens of flavors of tobacco. Open late—till 2 a.m. most days; till 4 on weekends. 245 Walnut St., Ste. 190, (909) 437-2801.

OTHER HOTSPOTS Chico State Chico Performances presents world-class musical acts and other performers from around the globe in Laxson Auditorium and Zingg Recital Hall, and the School of the Arts hosts student- and faculty-produced exhibits, theater, jazz concerts and the renowned North State Symphony. Chico State campus, 898-6333, www.chicoperformances.com; www.schoolofthearts-csuchico.com

El Rey Theatre This historic venue has housed a Vaudeville theater, an Elks Lodge and a movie theater.

It is now used primarily for national touring performers. 230 W. Second St., 342-2727, www.jmaxproductions.net

The Rendezvous An elegant venue that’s also available to rent out for weddings and other events, The Rendezvous offers occasional concerts featuring nationally known rock, folk and Americana acts. 3269 Esplanade Ste. 142, 864-2525, www.chicorendezvous.com

Senator Theatre The ornate Senator Theatre not only offers some great musical shows, but it’s also a major landmark in Chico’s history. Devil Makes Three, POD and Snoop Dogg all have performed there. 517 Main St., 898-1497, www.jmaxproductions.net

Sierra Nevada Big Room The world-famous Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. is home to a much-loved concert venue—the Big Room. Watch for an eclectic mix of national roots, Americana, funk and folk acts—from Nicki Bluhm to Delhi 2 Dublin—two to three times a month in the state-of-the-art, 350-seat facility. 1075 E. 20th St., 892-4647, www.sierranevada.com/ brewery/california/big-room

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DINING LIST continued from page 19

ItalIan California Pasta Productions Serving Italian lunches and dinners, such as pasta, seafood, chicken, soups and salads. 1600 Mangrove Ave., 343-6999, www.calpasta chico.com $$

Crush Specializing in a combination of traditional and contemporary flavors mixed with fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. 201 Broadway, 342-7000, www.chicocrush.com $$$

Franky’s Pizzeria & Lounge

Burrito Bandito

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Serving steak, pork and chicken burritos, quesadillas and tacos.

2485 Notre Dame Blvd., 342-2584, www.juanmeanburrito.com $

Custo fresh 1928

Casa Ramos Specializing in borrego (lamb shank) and fresh fajitas: steak, chicken and shrimp. 216 W. East Ave., 894-0119; 2490 Fair St., 893-5050, casaramos.net $$

Chipotle Mexican Grill Fast, made-to-order gourmet burritos and tacos with “endless” combinations of fillings. 620 Mangrove Ave., 343-8707; 1950 E. 20th St., 343-0706, www.chipotle.com $

Cocina Cortes From sopes to chimichangas, Cocina Cortes serves up quality, authentic Mexican food for a great price. 1110 Dayton Road, 342-4189 $

Locally owned for 25 years, serving pizza, Italian dishes, beer and wine. Open late on weekends, plus delivery available. 506 Ivy St., 898-9948, frankyschico.com $$

El Guayacan

Grana Wood Fired Foods

El Patron Taqueria

Farm-to-table-inspired Italian ostería featuring locally sourced, sustainable small plates, salads, entrees and traditional Neapolitan-style pizza. Italian-focused, esoteric wine list and craft beers. 198 E. Second St., 809-2304, www.granachico.com $$

Italian Cottage Restaurant Family-owned and -operated since 1965, serving local favorites: sandwiches, pizza, pasta and salads. Also serves breakfast. 2234 Esplanade, 343-7000; 2525 Dominic Drive, 342-7771, www.theitalian cottage.com $$

Olive Garden Serving pasta and other Italian specialties. 2020 Business Lane, 898-8075, www.olivegarden.com $$

Panighetti’s Eatery Offering big portions of moderately priced Italian food. Large dining room, with a great outdoor patio as well. 1851 Esplanade, 809-1640, panighettis.com $$

Pete’s Restaurant & Brewhouse Serving the same gourmet pizza, pastas and salads made popular by Original Pete’s in Sacramento. 2495 Carmichael Drive, 891-0611, www.originalpetes.net $$

MexIcan Aca Taco Authentic Acapulco-style food, including tacos, burritos and housemade enchiladas. 133 Broadway, 894-0191; 1000-D W. Sacramento Ave., 343-0909, www.acataco.com $

Amigos de Acapulco Mexican favorites include their special enchiladas and chile rellenos.

820 Oroville Ave., 898-8488 $

Aztlan Mexican Food Known for its authentic tortas and other delicious Mexican dishes.

1645 Park Ave., 487-7062 $

Bulldog Taqueria Featuring an array of authentic, made-from-scratch Mexican dishes, such as burritos, tacos, birria and chili verde. Aguas frescas and large flat-screen TVs. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, open late on weekends. 995 Nord Ave., 592-3605, www.bulldogtaqueria.com $

26 SAVOR

Mexican dishes including “homestyle” seafood entrees. Open for lunch and dinner. Catering available. 2201 Pillsbury Road, 893-3777 $

Authentic Mexican food served in a casual atmosphere. 1354 East Ave., 343-9779 $

El Rey Mexican Grill Featuring traditional Mexican food. Specialties are the flavorful molcajete, Sonoran hot dog and breakfast burritos served all day.

465 E. 20th St., Ste. 60, 342-4121 $

Gordo Burrito Giant tacos, burritos and other authentic Mexican food served up quickly. Check out their trucks, too. Closed Sundays. 1295 E. Eighth St., 809-1211 $

La Cocina Economica A local favorite offering affordable and authentic Mexican breakfast, lunch and dinner. 905 Wall St., 809-0370 $

La Comida Mexican-style food made fresh daily and served quickly. Voted Best Cheap Eats by CN&R readers for over a decade. 954 Mangrove Ave., 345-2254, www.lacomidarestaurants.com $

La Familia Restaurant Serving a variety of Mexican food, such as fajitas, carnitas and burritos. 1008 W. Sacramento Ave., 898-9029, www.lafamiliachico.com $

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Traditional and contemporary Mexican cuisine. 2635 Esplanade, 893-8270, lahacienda-chico.com $$

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Located inside the Chico Mall, Las Tapatias serves up street-style Mexican food, from tacos and tortas to enchiladas and burritos. If you’ve got a thirst, the piña mix—served inside a pineapple—has real chunks of fruit and a candy straw. 1950 E. 20th St. (Chico Mall food court), 774-8227 $

Mariscos la Costa Mexican Seafood Grill Having recently moved into a larger space on the same strip, Mariscos la Costa specializes in coastal Mexican fare and features shrimp, calamari, lobster, snapper and more. Think well beyond the fish taco.

1141 Forest Ave., 342-3627 $$

Ricardo’s Mexican Cocina Offering authentic Mexican food with combination plates, fresh tortilla chips and salsa and more. 2365 Esplanade, 895-9607, www.ricardos chico.com $

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Serrano’s Mexican Grill Customize-’em-yourself, authentic and eclectic burritos made with fresh ingredients. Located near the university. 645 W. Fifth St., 3431928 $

pie, along with fresh salads, hot sandwiches, lasagna, calzones and more. Additional pasta menu at East Avenue location. 101 Salem St., 896-1234; and 1354 East Ave., 345-7700, www.celestinospizza.com $-$$

Sol Mexican Grill

Domino’s

Burritos, tacos, enchiladas, tostadas and chimichangas served in a relaxed north Chico location. Hang out with friends on the patio or in the cantina. Plus, there’s a mobile app. Family-run since 2011.

3269 Esplanade, 342-4616, www.solmexicangrill.com $

Farm Star Pizza

Speedy Burrito Mexican Grill Great-tasting, healthfully prepared Mexican cooking. Delivery available. Closed Saturday-Sunday, but available at the Saturday farmers’ market in downtown Chico. 1013 W. First St. (inside the gas station), 591-9236, www.chicospeedyburrito.com $

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Artisan pizzas where the farmer is the star. Featuring local, organic, seasonal toppings; fresh, organic salads; and beer and wine served in a casual, fun, family-friendly atmosphere. 2359 Esplanade, 343-2056, www.farmstarpizza.com $$

JT’s Oven

Tacos Cortés

Preparing pizza and subs available for pick-up and delivery. 1380 East Ave., 892-1122, www.jtsoven.com $$

Inexpensive, authentic and generous amounts of Mexican food. Walkup window and outdoor seating available. 1530 Park Ave., 342-3797 $

Little Caesars Pizza

Tacos Mary

Pizza, breadsticks and more available for take-out. 598 E. Eighth St., 894-8300; 118 W. East Ave., 894-5707, www.littlecaesars.com $

Home of the famous taquito burrito. 429 Ivy St., 892-8176 $

Mad Dash Pizza

Tacos Pepe

Yummy drive-thru eats featuring personal pizzas, wings with specialty sauces, and fresh-squeezed OJ shakes. Small outdoor dining area.

2391 Cohasset Road, 899-1010, www.maddashpizza.com $

Serving up the flavors of Guadalajara, including $1 tacos on Tuesdays and Sundays. Plus, a totally unique outdoor taco grill after 5 p.m. on weekend and Tuesday evenings. 1002 W. Fifth St. 566-7745. $

Tacos Tijuana Serving tacos, combination plates and breakfast burritos along with birria, posole and menudo on weekends. Try their delicious homemade flan for dessert. 1441 Park Ave., 343-6762 $

Tacos Tonaya #2 Offering tacos, burritos, nachos, enchiladas, sopes and more.

244 Walnut St., 893-8972 $

Tacos Villa Acapulco An authentic taste of Mexico, serving traditional tacos, burritos and special combos. 1141 Forest Ave., 892-2858 $

Taqueria Los Amigos

Main Street Pizzeria Delicious pizza, especially for the late-night munchies. 331 Main St., 345-6246. $

MOD Pizza Serving up individual artisan pizzas and salads, fast. Choose from over 30 toppings and, here’s the kicker, it’s all one price. 851 East Ave., Ste. 150, 636-4862, www.modpizza.com $

Monstros Pizza Offering pizza and sub sandwiches with a side of punk rock.

628 W. Sacramento Ave., 345-7672, www.monstrospizza.com $

Mountain Mike’s Pizza

Delicious family-style Mexican food on the way to Hamilton City.

Closed Sundays. 3524 Highway 32, 342-9113 $

An extensive menu of specialty pizzas, along with a salad bar and sandwiches. 1722 Mangrove Ave., 893-1923; 1105 W. Fifth St., 899-9115, www.mountainmikes.com $$

Taqueria Ramirez

Papa Murphy’s Take ’n’ Bake Pizza

Serving up all the classics, from quesadillas to chimichangas. Same owners as the Tacos Ramirez truck on Nord, inside the gas station.

1397 Longfellow Ave.

Take-and-bake pizza and breadsticks. 1305 Mangrove Ave., 3456403; 14 W. Eaton Road, 343-3993; 2485 Notre Dame Blvd., 898-1560, papamurphys.com $$

Tres Hombres Long Bar & Grill

Pizza Guys

Fajitas, seafood tacos, pasta, fresh steaks and more than 120 tequilas available at the full bar. Sidewalk-café seating available. 100 Broadway, 342-0425 $$

Pizzas, pasta, salads, wings and more for take-out or delivery.

2471 Cohasset Road, 894-8888, www.pizzaguys.com $-$$

Pizza Hut Pizza, pasta and wings for take-out or delivery. 1417 Mangrove Ave., 896-1955, www.pizzahut.com $$

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Hot, made-to-order pizzas, salads, breadsticks and Buffalo wings.

Delivery or takeout. 324 Walnut St., 891-5888, www.dominos.com $

Pizza

Pop’s Pizza

Bidwell Park Pizza

Rolling Stone Pizza

With pizzas named after local landmarks, how can you go wrong?

Served by the slice or whole pizza. Also serving up salads, pasta, sandwiches and calzones. 800 Bruce Road, Ste. 100, 894-0400, www.bidwellparkpizza.com $$

Celestino’s New York Pizza

Top-quality ingredients, dough made from scratch and it’s all cooked to order. 2031 Forest Ave., 864-2760, www.popspizzachico.com $$

Located inside New Earth Market, sit down and enjoy a pie at the bar (they also serve beer) or order a pizza—cooked or ready to bake— to be prepared while you shop. Thin crust, toppings are top notch.

Also available: gluten-free crust from local company Cali’Flour Foods.

864 East Ave., 891-9355, www.newearthmarket.com $$

Award-winning New York-style pizza available by the slice or as a full DINING LIST continued on page 31 SAVOR

27

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Jeramie Sabelman PhOtO By mEREdith J. cOOPER

Inspiration everywhere Jeramie Sabelman, head chef and owner of Japanese Blossoms

J

eramie Sabelman got his first taste of the restaurant business at the age of 14, working the register and in the kitchen at Wok ’n’ Roll. Since then, the Chico native took himself on a culinary adventure by working at some of the city’s most well-known restaurants in a range of styles and flavors—Tres Hombres Long Bar & Grill, Jedidiah’s, Basque Norte, Christian Michaels Ristorante.

After hitting a burnout point, Sabelman, now 38, took a job as meat cutter at Safeway, where he worked for six years. Then one day, the former owner of Japanese Blossoms was getting her nails done by his wife, Tien, and she mentioned that she needed a new head sushi chef. “My wife kind of volunteered me out,” Sabelman said with a laugh.

“Sushi was one of the cuisines I hadn’t done yet. I figured I’d try it out— and I’ve been here six years now.”

About a year and a half ago, Sabelman bought Japanese Blossoms.

And while he didn’t make any wholesale changes, he says he has slowly shifted to a more sustainable menu. He recently sat down with the CN&R to discuss how he got to where he is now.

28 SAVOR

What’s your first food memory?

Definitely cooking at home. I feel very blessed that both of my parents cooked. I joke with people when they ask me, “Why did you get into restaurants?” I think it was intriguing to me because we never went out to restaurants. There used to be a Sizzler in Chico—that was like our big deal. Otherwise, it was going to La Comida. So, I never really knew fine dining. But I got a taste for a lot of flavors just because both of my parents cooked.

Have your past experiences prepared you for owning a restaurant?

I think every job I’ve ever worked has led me to this point. I started

Japanese Blossoms 2995 Esplanade, Ste. 104 891-9022 japaneseblossoms.com

bar. You serve people, essentially, but you cook in front of them as well.

What inspires you? delivering papers a couple miles from my house—and I made good tips. It helped me start to work on my customer service. Then, working at different restaurants, you’re part of a team. This is a misfit little family. Being able to have that kind of camaraderie at work, and then also to be able to be in front, working with customers—Tres really helped with that, working the taco

Everything inspires me. I love going to farmers’ market, being outdoors, going to Table Mountain and seeing the flowers and the color combinations and having the understanding that that’s really beautiful. Just from the visual standpoint, I can be inspired by anything. Working at so many places in my career and The NYCC roll at Japanese Blossoms.

PhOtO By JEAnEttE kRyzEk PhOtOgRAPhy

as er sed as as ealste both

Ann Leon, when I worked for her, was always really good about that.

She didn’t care if something cost twice as much—she cared that it was raised correctly. That really helped solidify for me that this can work, that doing the right thing is worthwhile. And I think that watching, over the past 10, 12 years, that people are starting to demand that.

The taste and the freshness, you can’t compare the two. When it comes to fish, that’s a limited supply of something. Do I love the taste of blue-fin tuna? Absolutely; it’s a fantastic fish. But I’m not going to be part of what puts those things out of existence.

My last meal will inevitably be one of two things—it will either be a sushi roll or it will be a burrito. Because most of my diet consists of taco truck burritos—El Tapatio is the best in town, right across from In Motion Fitness; I drive across town just for them, they’re fantastic— and I eat sushi every single day.

—Meredith J. Cooper m e re d i t h c @ne w s re v i e w . c o m

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picking up tips and tricks and plating techniques, or how to balance something, really starts to help you see food and plating in 3-D.

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16

2016 Best of Chico Food & Drink Winners

Check out these CN&R reader favorites!

5th Street Steakhouse Best Fine Dining Aca Taco Best Burrito, Best Taco

Duffy’s Tavern Best Bloody Mary, Best Watering Hole for Townies

S&S Organic Produce & Natural Foods Best Grocer

Gordo Burrito Best Street Food

Shubert’s Ice Cream & Candy Best Ice Cream, Best Spot to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Ann Leon (Leon Contemporary California Bistro) Best Chef

Happy Garden Best Take-Out

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. Best Craft Beer Selection

Italian Cottage Best Italian Cuisine

Sin of Cortez Best Breakfast

Argus Bar + Patio Best Bar

Japanese Blossoms Best Sushi

Smokin’ Mo’s BBQ Best BBQ

Bacio Catering & Carry Out Best Caterer

Jason Corona (Crush Italian Cuisine & Lounge) Best Mixologist

Sol Mexican Grill Best Mexican Cuisine

Amanda Rhoads (Mom’s Restaurant) Best Food Server

The Banshee Best Drunk Munchies Bella’s Sports Pub Best Sports Bar Burgers & Brew Best Burger Celestino’s Best Pizza Chico Chai Best Locally Produced Food – Regional (Butte/Glenn/Tehama) Cozy Diner Best Diner Crush Italian Cuisine & Lounge Best Date-Night Dining, Best Happy Hour The Dog House Best Hot Dog

Spike’s Bottle Shop Best Liquor Store

La Comida Best Cheap Eats Live Life Juice Co. Best Locally Produced Food – Regional (Butte/Glenn/Tehama)

Spiteri’s Delicatessen Best Sandwich T. Tea Bar & Fusion Café Best Lunch, Best Place for Tea

Naked Lounge Tea & Coffeehouse Best Local Coffee House Nash’s 7th Avenue Omelette House Best Champagne Brunch New Clairvaux Vineyard Best Local Winery – Regional (Butte/ Glenn/Tehama)

Tong Fong Low Best Asian Cuisine Tres Hombres Long Bar & Grill Best Margarita Unwined at 980 Best New Restaurant (Opened in the Last Year)

The Pour House Best Local Restaurant – Chico, Best Patio

Upper Crust Bakery & Eatery Best Bakery

Priya Indian Cuisine Best International Cuisine

Wine Time Best Small Bites (Apps/Tapas), Best Place to Drink a Glass of Wine

newsreview.com/bestofchico 30 SAVOR

DINING LIST continued from page 27

Round Table Pizza Pizza selections and salads in a casual atmosphere. Multiple locations, www.roundtablepizza.com $$

Woodstock’s Pizza Award-winning pizza, cold beer on tap, fresh salads, appetizers, desserts and new sandwiches. Dine in, take-out and delivery.

166 E. Second St., 893-1500, www.woodstockschico.com $$

Street Food BisouBisou Crêpes You can guess what the specialty is here. Delicious, light and always satisfying. Find BisouBisou at the Saturday farmers’ market, Fork in the Road and other community events. Find it on Facebook. $

The Black Kettle Serving up a menu that changes daily and features fresh, local, seasonal ingredients. 354-1013, www.facebook.com/blackkettlechico $

Chicobi’s

The Lamb & the Wolf

Fusion cuisine catering and concession truck featuring items like Jamaican jerk chicken tacos and Reuben flatbread pizzas. 828-3161, www.chicobis.com $

Chico Chamangos Serving a variety of Mexican snacks, from raspados and diablitos to tostilocos and their namesake frozen chamango drinks. Find ’em on Facebook. $

Chico Chuckwagon Offering delicious grilled sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, fries and acai bowls. Also serving up vegetarian options and a kid’s menu. Available for special events. 592-0550, www.facebook.com/ChicoChuckwagon $

Crispy Eggroll Naturally, egg rolls are the staple here. Menu also includes Hmong sausage and rice, curry noodles and stir fry. 354-8155, facebook.com/ crispyeggroll

Cupcake Crusader Delicious cupcakes—in unique flavors as well as childhood favorites— made fresh and to order. www.thecupcakecrusader.com $

Fiesta Taco

Ike’s Smokehouse The flavorful barbecue taste diners have come to expect from CJ’s Last Chance Diner, on a smaller, more mobile scale. Specializing in beef, chicken and pork on a bun or in a wrap. Plus melt-in-your-mouth ribs. www.ikessmokehouse.com $

The Lamb & the Wolf This Greek food truck run by Greek chef and world pizza competition winner Michael Athanasopoulos specializes in gyros, traditional apps like spanakopita and hummus and the infamous pizza cone. 966-7351, facebook.com/thelambandwolf $$

The Lunch Box & Lemonade Stand This mobile kitchen serves up a selection of sandwiches alongside made-in-your-cup fresh lemonades, teas and tea infusions. www.facebook.com/chicolemonade $

Maria’s Gone Tamales

Delicious al pastor, carne asada and pork tacos and burritos. Corner of Nord and West Sacramento avenues $

Serving authentic, corn-husk-wrapped tamales in a variety of flavors, from pork and chicken to pineapple and strawberry. Who doesn’t want to go tamales? 566-4085 or find it on Facebook $

Gnarly Deli

Mayhem Gourmet Grilled Cheese

Decidedly unique “sammiches” provide a fusion of flavors. Catering available. www.facebook.com/gnarlydeli $

Exactly what its name implies—grilled, melty, cheesy goodness. www.facebook.com/mayhemfoodtruck $

Gordo Burrito

Mi Taquito Grill

Serving burritos, tostadas, tortas, tacos, quesadillas and chimichangas. Awesome shrimp specials and friendly service. Corners of Eighth and Pine streets and 20th Street and Park Avenue, www.facebook. com/GordoBurrito $

Mi Taquito Grill serves up fresh, traditional Mexican fare, including burritos, tacos and burrito bowls. Nice covered seating area.

3005 Esplanade $

Here Today Coffee Cart

Their motto is, “Local, Fresh, Different, Delicious!” Started by a farming couple with a rotating menu based on what’s fresh now, from chorizo sandwiches to fajita burgers. Different, indeed. 701-2846, therangefoodtruck.com $

For more than a dozen years, this popular coffee cart and impromptu cafe have made a home just outside the Chico Certified Farmers’ Market on Saturday mornings. Delicious coffee, brewed to order, along with homemade treats. $

The Range Food Truck

Slyderz Grill Burgers, wings, fries. Find it on Facebook. www.slyderzgrill.com $ DINING LIST continued on page 32 SAVOR

31

DINING LIST continued from page 31

Wander

Donu

Tacos el Grullense

Offering a circus-themed, rotating menu of locally sourced items. Also available: sack-lunch dropoffs to businesses on Wednesdays. Catering available. 680-3871, www.wanderfoods.com $

Donu exce

Weiner Man The Weiner Man offers tasty hot dogs and bratwursts with a friendly smile to the late-night crowd downtown. Find him on Facebook $

Serv home more

Yony’s Roasted Corn

Gela

Crisanto and Veronica “Yony” Martinez are seriously crazy about corn. Try one of their many flavors of roasted-on-the-spot corn on the cob—or get it in a bowl. www.facebook.com/yonysroastedcorn $

Froze

Traditional Mexican fare, including tacos, burritos and tortas. Corner of East Park Avenue and Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway $

Tacos el Paisa Featuring killer shrimp tacos as well as burritos, quesadillas, tostadas and tortas. Corner of Walnut and Second streets $

Tacos el Pinolero Featuring tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tostadas and tortas. Cash only.

Two locations: 275 E. Park Ave.; the corner of The Esplanade and Tonea Way $

Tacos el Tapatio Serving tacos, huge loaded burritos, quesadillas and tortas.

1367 Longfellow Ave., 828-2449 $

Tacos Puerto Vallarta Featuring tacos, burritos, sopes, quesadillas, tostadas and tortas.

Corner of the Esplanade and West 11th Avenue $

SweetS Baskin-Robbins

Donu

Hele

Serv 343-4

Jam

Fresh brea

The

Tacos Ramirez

Offering ice cream, smoothies, shakes and cakes. Multiple locations, www.baskinrobbins.com $

Gour tiona or on

Classic taco-truck fare: tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tostadas and tortas. Corner of Nord and Stewart avenues $

Chico Smoothie

Jon

Tacos Super Tonaya Known for their friendly service, the folks at Tacos Super Tonaya serve up fresh, authentic Mexican flavors (so spicy means spicy!).

Try the chicken quesadilla, the carne asada torta or the lengua taco.

671 E. Fifth Ave., 519-2212.

Tacos Tonaya Featuring tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tostadas and tortas. Loyal customers swear by the California burrito. Corner of Walnut and East Third streets $

The Taco Truck Serving delicious, fresh Mexican fare. Often found in the All the Best Video parking lot on Cohasset Road, or on the back patio at Argus on weekends. www.facebook.com/TacoTruck $

Refreshing smoothies while you shop. Inside Chico Mall. $

Cinful Desserts Specializing in cakes and cupcakes for all occasions. 752 East Ave, 354-0848 $

Cold Stone Creamery Premium ice cream, sorbet and cakes. Shakes, smoothies and banana splits, too. 146 Broadway, 891-3331, www.coldstonecreamery.com $

The Cookie Shoppe Featuring gourmet cookies and gift items. Closed weekends.

1600 Mangrove Ave., 899-3385, thecookieshoppe.com $

Country Morning Bakery & Café

Truckaroni

Cozy breakfast and lunch restaurant featuring delicious house-baked breads, pies, muffins and cinnamon rolls. Closed Sunday and Monday.

2625 Aztec Drive, 899-0527 $

Offering a menu of Italian goodness. Must try the mac and cheese. www.facebook.com/truckaroni $

Denine’s Cupcakes

PIZZA

Full line of Round Table’s famous Specialty and Create Your Own Pizzas.

PUB

Expanded selection of beers on tap and blended cocktails.

New menu of appetizers and half-pound burgers.

PLAY

New state of the art arcade with prize redemption. Kid’s party packages.

Party room for teams, groups & family gatherings.

CHICO

PARADISE

RED BLUFF

2201 Pillbury Road Almond Orchard

6038 Clark Road Old Town Plaza

116 W Belle Mill Road Belle Mill Landing

891-1200

32 SAVOR

872-2233

529-1760

Specializing in “flavorful, pure cupcakes.” 116 Broadway, 809-4086. $

Visit our traditional locations at: WILLOWS CHICO 1237 W. Wood St. •934-2838 964 Mangrove Ave • 343-4254 GRIDLEY 2027 Forest Ave • 342-7265 1516 Highway 99 • 846-8077 OROVILLE ORLAND 1124 Oro Dam Blvd E • 533-6710 302 East Walker St. • 865-4343

Jon & Twelv snow grove

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Donut Nook

Live Life Juice Co.

Donuts, muffins, Danish, scones, cookies and espresso. Open 24 hours, except from 1-7 p.m., Sunday-Tuesday. 958 East Ave., 342-2118 $

Recently relocated to the heart of downtown, the sisters who run Live Life Juice Co. offer up pure, fresh juice and elixirs daily. Wonderfully tasty and healthful fruit and vegetable juice blends high in nutritional value while also affordable and convenient. 220 Broadway, 566-3466, livelifejuiceco.com $

Donut Wheel Serving delicious donuts, pastries and ham and cheese sandwiches, homemade fresh daily. Delivery available for orders of 10 dozen or more. 2404 Esplanade, 345-4528 $

Lovely Layers Cakery

Frozen yogurt and gelato. 1380 East Ave., 345-7626 $

Freshly baked cupcakes and cookies available daily. Made-to-order specialty cakes and wedding cakes. Open Tuesday-Saturday.

131 Meyers St., Ste. 120, 828-9931, www.lovelylayerscakery.com $

Helen’s Donut Nook

Mim’s Bakery

Gelayo Frozen Yogurt & Gelato

Serving fresh donuts and coffee daily until 2 p.m. 807 Main St., 343-4031 $

Jamba Juice Fresh juices and smoothies with vitamin enhancers, plus nutritious breads and wheat grass. Multiple locations, www.jambajuice.com $

The Joker’s Bakery Gourmet, unique and artisanal cheesecakes, with 16 flavors and additional seasonal ones. Store open by appointment only. Order by phone or online. (917) 885-8014, www.thejokersbakery.com $$

Carefully crafted baked goodies—such as cakes and petit fours— made from scratch for a quick treat, or in bulk for special occasions.

890 Humboldt Ave., 345-3331, www.mimsbakery.com $

Roo’s Ice Cream Parlor Located inside Cal Java, Roo’s specializes in what it calls ice creamdonut fusion. Literally an ice cream sandwich made with a donut and warmed on a panini press. Mmm. Ice cream also available by the scoop. 2485 Notre Dame Blvd., Ste. 390, 868-7667 $

See’s Candies All your classic See’s favorites. Yum! 1947 E. 20th St., 891-3384 $

Jon & Bon’s Yogurt Shoppe Jon & Bon’s has been serving up sweet sensations for over 34 years.

Twelve flavors of frozen yogurt daily, along with ice cream, Hawaiian snow and smoothies. Open late. 300 Broadway, 899-9580; 1722 Mangrove Ave., 899-0484 $

Kiwi Blast Frozen Yogurt A frozen-yogurt shop in the heart of college land. 645 W. Fifth St., 343-2828 $

Krispy Kreme Serving donuts and coffee. 2060 Business Lane, 891-3492, www.krispy kreme.com $

La Flor de Michoacán Palatería y Nevería A Mexican ice cream shop with many flavors and toppings, plus other sweet treats. 1080 W. Sacramento Ave., Ste. C; and 1354 East Ave.; 893-9999 $

Shubert’s Ice Cream & Candy This local favorite has produced ice cream and confections for 75 years and running. Enjoy banana splits or root beer floats on the benches and at the tables out front. Open till 10 p.m. daily! 178 E. Seventh St., 342-7163, shuberts.com $

Sweet Chico Confections An old-fashioned candy store with more than 5,000 treats, including gelatos and sorbettos. 121 W. Third St., 332-9866, sweetchico.com $

Tin Roof Bakery & Café If you’re in the mood for a flaky pastry or decadent tart, look no further than Tin Roof. Also serving up French macaroons, cookies and cakes, in addition to a full espresso bar. 627 Broadway, 892-2893 $

Upper Crust Bakery & Eatery Serving fine pastries, specialty cakes and pies from scratch, as well as cookies and cupcakes. 130 Main St., 895-3866, www.uppercrust l chico.com $

.$

10

10

10

10

10

10

10

10

10

Breakfast ~ Lunch ~ Dinner Open Early ~10Open Late

2 Locations!

DOWNTOWN

133 Broadway (530)894-0191

10

10

10

10

NORD AVE.

1000-D W. SACRAMENTO AVE (530)343-0909 10

acataconord.com 10

10

10

10

10

SAVOR

33

INDEX 5th Street Steakhouse...................... 18, 20 Aca Taco ................................................ 26 Ali Baba ...................................................17 Alpaca Bob’s Sandwich Adventures .......... 11 Amigos de Acapulco ................................ 26 Angie’s Bar and Grill ................................19 Aonami Sustainable Sushi .......................... 6 Applebee’s Grill & Bar .............................12 Arabica Cafe ............................................13 Argus Bar + Patio .................................. 20 Aztlan Mexican Food................................ 26 B Street Public House....................... 12, 20 Bacio Catering, Carry Out & Biz Box ....12, 14 The Banshee ............................................21 Baskin-Robbins ....................................... 32 Basque Norte ..........................................18 The Beach ............................................. 23 Beach Hut Deli ......................................... 11 Beatniks Coffee House & Breakfast Joint ...................................10 Bellachino’s Espresso & Panini Café ........12 Bella’s Sports Pub ...................................21 Bidwell Bar & Grill .............................12, 21 Bidwell Park Pizza ................................... 27 Bidwell Perk .............................................13 Big Al’s Drive In ....................................... 11 Big Chico Burger ..................................... 11 Big Hot Crab............................................12 Big Tuna Sushi Bistro ............................... 6 The Black Kettle ......................................31 BisouBisou Crêpes ...................................31 Boba TeaLicious ........................................ 6

Breakfast Buzz ........................................10 Broadway Heights California Cuisine ........13

Christian Michaels Ristorante ............ 18, 20 Cinful Desserts ....................................... 32

The End Zone .......................................... 22 Enjoy Teriyaki ........................................... 6

Ike’s S

Broadway Market & Deli .......................... 6 Brooklyn Bridge Bagel Works ..................10 Buffalo Wild Wings ...................................21

CJ’s Last Chance Diner............................13 Cocina Cortes ......................................... 26 Cocodine Thai Cuisine ................................ 6

Italian

Bulldog Taqueria ..................................... 26 Burger Hut Burgers ................................ 11

Code 3 Coffee .........................................17 Coffee Ranch ...........................................17

Burgers & Brew......................................21 Burrito Bandito ....................................... 26 Cabana Café ............................................13

Cold Stone Creamery .............................. 32 The Cookie Shoppe ................................. 32 Country Morning Bakery & Cafe............. 32

Café Coda ..........................................10, 21 Cafe Petra Mediterranean Cuisine ............17

Country Waffles .......................................10 Cozy Diner ...............................................19

Cal Java Coffee Roasters ........................13 California Pasta Productions ................... 26 Casa Ramos............................................ 26 Casino 99 ............................................... 24 Celestino’s New York Pizza...................... 27 Chada Thai Cuisine .................................... 6

Crazy Horse Saloon ................................ 23 Crepeville ................................................17 Crispy Eggroll ..........................................31 Crush............................................8, 20, 26 Cupcake Crusader....................................31 Denine’s Cupcakes .................................. 32

Chan Pheng’s Mandarin Cuisine................. 6 The Cheesesteak Shop ............................. 11 Chicobi’s ..................................................31 Chico Chamangos.....................................31 Chico Coffee Co. ......................................13 Chico Chuckwagon ...................................31 Chico Locker & Sausage Co. ................... 11 Chico Smoothie ...................................... 32 Chico State ............................................. 24 Chico Taproom .......................................21 Chili’s Grill & Bar .....................................13 China House .............................................. 6 Chipotle Mexican Grill .............................. 26

Denny’s ...................................................19 The Dog House ........................................ 11 Domino’s................................................. 27 Donut Nook............................................. 33 Donut Wheel............................................ 33 The DownLo .............................................21 Duffy’s Tavern .........................................21 Dutch Bros. .............................................17 Egg Roll King ............................................ 6 El Guayacan ............................................ 26 El Patron Taqueria .................................. 26 El Rey Mexican Grill................................. 26 El Rey Theatre ........................................ 24

Everyday Vietnamese Cuisine .................... 7 Farmer’s Skillet........................................10 Farm Star Pizza ...................................... 27 Fast Eddie’s ............................................. 11 Feather Falls Casino ................................ 24 Fiesta Taco ..............................................31 Foodie Cafe ..............................................13 Franky’s Pizzeria & Lounge ..............20, 26 Fresh Twisted Cafe ..................................13 Fusion Hookah Lounge ............................ 24 Gelayo Frozen Yogurt & Gelato............... 33 Gen Kai Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar ............................................. 7 Ginger’s Chinese Restaurant ..................... 7 Gnarly Deli ..............................................31 Gogi’s Café ..............................................17 Gold Country Casino................................ 24 Gordo Burrito ................................... 26, 31 Grana Wood Fired Foods ......................... 26 Great Harvest Bread Co. .........................13 Great Northern ........................................17 The Handle Bar ....................................... 22 Happy Garden ........................................... 7 Has Beens Creekside ...............................17 Helen’s Donut Nook ................................ 33 Here Today Coffee Cart ...........................31 Hudson’s Gastropub ................................13 Hula’s Chinese Bar-B-Q ............................ 7 IHOP ........................................................19

Las Ta

Ike’s Place ............................................... 11

Leon B

it’s time to

DisCoVeR BUtte CoUNtY A FREE Guide for Visitors and Locals, too.

On stands in September and March.

34 SAVOR

Inday’s

It’s a G

Izakay

Jack’s

Jamba Japan

Java D

Jersey Joe’s

The Jo

Jon &

JT’s O Kalico

Kathy’

Kinder

Kiwi B

Kona’s

Krispy

Kwand

La Coc

La Com

La Fam

La Flor

La Hac

The La

LaRoc Wine T

..... 22 ....... 6

Ike’s Smokehouse ....................................31

Little Caesar’s Pizza ................................ 27

Inday’s Filipino Food .................................17

Live Life Juice Co .................................... 33

....... 7 ......10 ..... 27 ...... 11 ..... 24 ......31 ......13 20, 26 ......13 ..... 24 ..... 33

Italian Cottage Restaurant ................ 10, 26

Logan’s Roadhouse..................................13

It’s a Grind Coffee House.........................17

The Lost Dutchman Taproom .................. 20

Izakaya Ichiban ......................................... 7

Lost on Main ........................................... 23

Jack’s Family Restaurant ........................19

Lovely Layers Cakery. ............................. 33

Jamba Juice ........................................... 33

The Lunch Box & Lemonade Stand ..........31

....... 7 ....... 7 ......31 ......17 ..... 24 26, 31 ..... 26 ......13 ......17 ..... 22 ....... 7 ......17 ..... 33 ......31 ......13 ....... 7

JT’s Oven ............................................... 27

Japanese Blossoms ............................7, 28

Mad Dash Pizza....................................... 27

Java Detour.............................................17

Madison Bear Garden ............................. 22

Jersey Mike’s Subs ................................. 11

Main Street Pizzeria ................................ 27

Joe’s Bar ............................................... 22

Maltese Bar & Tap Room ....................... 22

The Joker’s Bakery ................................ 33

Maria’s Gone Tamales..............................31

Jon & Bon’s Yogurt Shoppe................... 33

Mariscos la Costa Mexican Seafood Grill............................................ 26 Mayhem Gourmet Grilled Cheese .............31

Kalico Kitchen ..........................................19 Kathy’s Deli ............................................. 11 Kinder’s Custom Meats & Deli .................12 Kiwi Blast Frozen Yogurt......................... 33 Kona’s .....................................................12 Krispy Kreme.......................................... 33 Kwando Restaurant .................................. 7 La Cocina Economica............................... 26 La Comida ............................................... 26 La Familia Restaurant ............................. 26 La Flor de Michoacan .............................. 33 La Hacienda ............................................ 26 The Lamb & the Wolf .............................31 LaRocca Vineyards Organic Wine Tasting Room ................................. 20

Mekkala Thai Cuisine ................................. 7 Mi Taquito Grill.........................................31 Mim’s Bakery ......................................... 33 MOD Pizza ............................................... 27 Momona Noodles & Bao ........................... 7 Mom’s .....................................................10 Mondo’s Café ...........................................17 Monstros Pizza .................................22, 27 Morning Thunder Café .............................10 Mountain Mike’s Pizza ............................. 27 Naked Lounge Tea & Coffeehouse ...........17 Nash’s 7th Avenue Omelette House ..........10 Nash’s Restaurant ...................................18 Nobby’s ...................................................12

......19

Las Tapatias .......................................... 26

Noodle House............................................ 7

...... 11

Leon Bistro ..............................................18

Oasis Bar & Grill .............................. 12, 22

Ojiya Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar ............................................. 7 Olive Garden............................................ 26 OM Foods.................................................13 Outback Steakhouse ................................13 PaCoo ......................................................13 Panama Bar & Café ............................... 22 Panera .....................................................13 Panda Express .......................................... 7 Panighetti’s Eatery ................................. 26 Papa Murphy’s Take ‘n’ Bake Pizza ........ 27 Park Avenue Pub .................................... 22 Parkside Tap House ............................... 20 Peking Chinese Restaurant ................. 7, 23 Peet’s Coffee & Tea ................................17 Pelican’s Roost Chowder House ...............13 Peter Chu’s Mandarin Cuisine ................... 7 Pete’s Restaurant & Brewhouse ............ 26 Pho C & C ................................................ 7 Pho Le ...................................................... 7 The Pita Pit..............................................12 Pizza Guys .............................................. 27 Pizza Hut................................................. 27 Pluto’s .....................................................13 Popeye’s Louisiana Kitchen ......................19 Pop’s Pizza ............................................. 27 Port of Subs ............................................12 The Pour House ................................ 13, 20 Priya Indian Cuisine ..................................17 Quackers Fire Bar & Grill ....................... 22 Ramada Plaza Restaurant & Lounge........21 The Range ..............................................31

Rawbar Restaurant & Sushi Bar .............. 7 Ready Chef Go Bistro & Market ..............17 Red Lobster .............................................13 Red Tavern ..............................................18 The Rendezvous ...................................... 24 Ricardo’s Mexican Cocina ....................... 26 Rice Bowl .................................................. 7 Riley’s Bar & Grill................................... 22 Rolling Hills Casino .................................. 24 Rolling Stone Pizza .................................. 27 Roo’s Ice Cream Parlor ......................... 33 The Roost Café ........................................10 Roots Catering ........................................17 Round Table Pizza ....................................31 Russell’s Family Restaurant .....................19 S&S Barbeque & Deli ..............................12 Scotty’s Landing ............................... 13, 22 See’s Candies ......................................... 33 Senator Theatre ..................................... 24 Serrano’s Mexican Grill ........................... 27 Shubert’s Ice Cream & Candy ................ 33 Sicilian Café .............................................18 Sierra Nevada Big Room ......................... 24 Sierra Nevada Taproom & Restaurant ........................................18, 21 Sin of Cortez ............................................10 Sipho’s Restaurant & Café ................17, 23 Slyderz Grill..............................................31 Smokin’ Mo’s BBQ ..................................12 Sol Mexican Grill .....................................27 Speedy Burrito Mexican Grill ...................27 INDEX continued on page 36

Wine down, Eatitusp!

& Raise Your Spir

A dining experience you

won’t forget

Japanese Blossoms 2995 Esplanade #104 530.891.9022 japaneseblossoms.com

Happy Hour M-sat | 4-6pm • Spaghetti & Salad $8 • Small 1-item Pizza $8 • Meatball Sliders $5

drink specials 1/2 off wine by the glass $4 Martini $5 Champagne Splits

Delicious food made from scratch daily, using the freshest ingredients & local food sourcing when available!

Reservations Daily • 898-9948 • Take-Out • 898-9947 (Delivery by Entree Express) • Corner of 5th/Ivy Open 4pm Daily, 11:30 Fri Lunch SAVOR

35

Can’t

Miss

EvEnts!

INDEX continued from page 35

Spiteri’s Delicatessen.....................................................12 Starbucks ......................................................................17 Studio Inn Cocktail Lounge ............................................ 23 SubStation Deli ..............................................................12 Subway ..........................................................................12 Sultan’s Bistro ...............................................................18 Sushi King & Boba Tea Zone .........................................10 Sweet Chico Confections ............................................... 33 T. Tea Bar & Fusion Cafe ..............................................13 Tackle Box Bar & Grill .................................................. 23 Tacos Cortés ................................................................ 27 Tacos el Grullense......................................................... 32 Tacos el Paisa .............................................................. 32 Tacos el Pinolero .......................................................... 32 Tacos el Tapatio ........................................................... 32 Tacos Mary .................................................................. 27 Tacos Pepe ................................................................... 27 Tacos Puerto Vallarta ................................................... 32 Tacos Ramirez .............................................................. 32 Tacos Super Tonaya ..................................................... 32 Tacos Tijuana ............................................................... 27 Tacos Tonaya ............................................................... 32 Tacos Tonaya #2 ......................................................... 27 Tacos Villa Acapulco...................................................... 27 The Taco Truck ............................................................ 32 Taps .............................................................................21 Taqueria los Amigos ..................................................... 27 Taqueria Ramierez ........................................................ 27

February 2018

Teriyaki House ...............................................................10 Thai Basil .......................................................................10 Thai Express ..................................................................10

April 2018

October 2017

NewsReview.com/Chico

Your Independent Alternative News & Entertainment Resource

Tin Roof Bakery & Café ..........................................13, 33 Togo’s ...........................................................................12 Tong Fong Low ..............................................................10 Tres Hombres Long Bar & Grill ...............................21, 27 Truckaroni .................................................................... 32 Two Twenty Restaurant ...........................................19, 21 University Sports Bar ................................................... 23 Unwined at 980 .......................................................19, 21 Upper Crust Bakery & Eatery .................................13, 33 Urban Fresh Fuel ..........................................................18 Vietnam Bistro ..............................................................10 Waganupa Brewing ....................................................... 23 Wander ......................................................................... 32 Weiner Man................................................................... 32 The Winchester Goose .................................................. 23 Windy’s Chinese Restaurant ...........................................10 Wine Time ................................................................19, 21 Wingman Chico .............................................................12 Wingstop........................................................................12 Wok ‘n’ Roll ...................................................................10 Woodstock’s Pizza ...................................................23, 31 Yony’s Roasted Corn .................................................... 32 Zot’s Hot Dogs ..............................................................12

36 SAVOR

BUSINESS LUNCHES have NEVER BEEN EASIER O R D E R O N L I N E | P I C K U P O R D E L I V E R Y AVA I L A B L E

bizboxchico.com

1903 PARK AVE • 530-345–7787 • BACIOCHICO.COM • M-F 11AM TO 7PM

Local Goodness!

b a k e ry • L U n C h • C a k e S • C at e r i n g

130 Main Street Downtown Chico www.UpperCrustChico.com (530) 895-3866

Open 7 Days a Week!

SAVOR

37

38 SAVOR

Sushi or Hibachi

You decide!

Hibachi possesses all the qualities of a perfect dining experience. Enjoy the finest in steak & seafood skillfully prepared & presented with flair by Master teppan-yaki chefs on your table top grill. The speed & dexterity of our chefs will dazzle you & the exotic, elegant atmosphere will delight you.

Or visit the sushi bar, where your sushi chef will prepare with great artistry, fresh sashimi, maki, and tekamaki sushi.

JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR LARGE BANQUEST ROOMS | CALL FOR RESERVATIONS 2477 FOREST AVE. # 100 CHICO | 530.899.1199 | FULL BAR | SUN-THUR 11AM-9:30PM | FRI - SAT 11AM-10PM | GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE! SAVOR

39

r o f s u n joi

y a d i r f unch l 13

15

16 13

345 West Fifth Street 15 16 Chico, CA 95928 (530) 891–6328 Please call for reservations Open Fridays for Lunch 11:30am – 2:30pm Join us for Happy Hour Mon–Fri 4:30–6pm