San Joaquin Magazine - May 2010

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SanJoaquin T H E P R E M I E R M A G A Z I N E O F C E N T R A L VA L L E Y L I V I N G

magazine

c o m m u n i t y | d i n i n g | h e a lt h | h o m e | s h o p p i n g

Dine At Crush Restaurant Visit Sausalito Summertime Events

MAY 2010

MAY 2010 $3.95

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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Ways to Enjoy This Summer

lathrop | lodi | manteca | ripon | stockton | tracy

Health ensurance.

Plant the idea in everyone‘s mind.

At Kaiser Permanente, we believe a happier, healthier you is well within reach.

For more information about Kaiser Permanente, call 1-800-464-4000 or visit kaiserpermanente.org.

Nearly 30 million Americans suffer from the debilitating agony of chronic migraine headaches. If you're a sufferer and have made the requisite rounds of new medications, but to no avail, Doctors Hospital of Manteca may have a solution that could bring you long- lasting relief. Call us today about a leading-edge new cosmetic procedure that has given many migraine patients the migraine-free lifestyle that they desire.

Call 800.470.7229 for a physician referral.

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Join us from home at 6:30 pm May 20 for an informative webinar about this new procedure. You must register in advance at http://tinyurl.com/migrainepain in order to participate in this free online presentation. san joaquin magazine

MAY 2010

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visit www.skindoktor.com Shaukat A. Shah, M.D. • 209.939.3800 1805 N. California St., Suite 201 • Stockton, CA 95204 san joaquin magazine

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may

features

volume nine issue 5 • May 2010

24 Summer Fun Guide Your do-it-all, best-summer-ever guide

to the most exciting outdoor events of the season in San Joaquin. by Tera Garcia

30 Home with a view A Stockton couple finds their home sweet 46

Sausalito: beauty and the bay

Getting away to artsy Sausalito, at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge with unmatched cityscapes, is the perfect place to unwind. by Don and Ann Jackson

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51 cRUSH kITCHEN AND BAR

Michael Warren of Lodi’s Crush Kitchen and Bar is serving some of the freshest food to hit restaurant tables in a long time. by Jamie Menaker SPECIAL MAGAZINE INSERT:

San Joaquin Medical Guide

medical guide SanJoaquin magazine’s

2010-2011

Area Hosp itals Ev

: eryth Need ing You To Kn ow

W W W.SANJOAQUINMAGA ZINE.COM

Local Doctors + Medical Profiles + Healthy Choices + Area Hospitals

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46 MAY 2010

Clockwise From Top Left: Courtesy zinfest; MIchael Venera/ Cavallo Point; matthew james photography

home, with all the amenities they’ve always wanted, including sweeping Delta views.

by Jamie Menaker

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

san joaquin magazine

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may

volume nine issue 5 May 2010

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Publisher’s Note

5 UP FRONT | 209 1 Ed Sprague, University of the Pacific Baseball; Mother’s Day brunches; The art of floral design; Tracy Cyclery’s Ed Phippin; Summer camps for kids; and more 68

Out and About

72

May Win It! Contest

26 51

Getaway 44

Sausalito: Beauty and the Bay

Food&wine 51

Spotlight: Crush Kitchen and Bar

54

Wine Picks: Zinfandels

58

Dining Out

60

Taste of the Season: Cherries

51

60

Food and Wine Tidbits:

62 How to Start a Veggie Garden

On the Cover: Citrus Fruit Salad from Crush Kitchen and Bar photo by Dan Hood

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MAY 2010

Clockwise from top: Dan Hood; Ca Cherry advisory board; Dan Hood (2)

DEPARTMENTS

The Great Kitchen Rescue!

PLEASE HELP!

Before!

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Summertime!

BY THE TIME THIS ISSUE OF SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE COMES TO YOUR LOCAL COFFEE SHOP or home mailbox, I’m crossing my fingers that the rain has stopped. Don’t get me wrong, I know rain is great for the California drought that always seems to be waiting in the wings, and rainy days have their own charm—lots of work getting done, my kids playing in the puddles, to name a few. But, people, it’s finally time for summer.

I wait for this all year long. Extended days, warm weather, happy kids and family, and the time of the year when anything goes. My family and I wait all year to make the most of San Joaquin. I know that we will be ripping out this issue’s Summer Fun Guide (page 24) and posting it on our kitchen fridge. Hopefully I’ll be running into some of you readers at San Joaquin’s many great summer festivals and events.

If you haven’t already, check out new restaurant Crush Kitchen and Bar (page 51). Take a stroll to browse the shops on Lodi’s School Street, and then head over to the restaurant.

Owner and chef Michael Warren’s local ingredients and seasonal menu are light, fresh, and summer-ready.

The best part of summer is getting out in the sunshine and feeling healthy. Better weather means more opportunities to be active, and to get out there and do things with your family and friends. Included in this issue is our first-ever San Joaquin Medical Guide, which we hope will help keep your family healthy year-round. Keep this Medical Guide in your house, and use it as a resource for our local hospitals and doctors. You never know when you’ll need an Ob-Gyn or someone in your family might need a surgeon or a cardiologist, so be prepared for the unexpected. Keep this Medical Guide around for any time that you need some guidance to healthcare here in San Joaquin.

“A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawn mower is broken.” ~James Dent

Once you read this magazine, put it down and get out there and enjoy the summer!

Tony Zoccoli Publisher, San Joaquin magazine

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MAY 2010

The power to prevent overdrafts before they happen.

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Prevent overdrafts before they happen!

If you become overdrawn, we text you and give you the ability to respond back to the bank via text so you can cover the overdraft before you’re assessed an overdraft fee.

Imagine that, a bank that gives you the power to avoid overdrafts.

Overdraft Text Alerts, only at Bank of Stockton, the first bank in the state to offer you the power to prevent overdrafts.

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See U Op s at Z en IN Ho FES use T Ma M

It’s All Good!

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MAY 2010

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5th

SanJoaquin magazine

THE P RE M IER M A G A Z I N E OF C E N TRAL VALLEY LIVI N G

Publisher | EDITOR Tony Zoccoli

managing editor Jamie Menaker Assistant Editor Tera Garcia

Macchia 7099 East Peltier Rd Acampo, Ca 95220

209.333.2600 • MacchiaWines.com

Creative Director Sherry Roberts Ad Design Violet Whitworth

director Of Sales and Marketing Heather Hilton ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Emily Olson, Kelly Moore, Vikki Sandor-Girolami, Valerie Zoccoli EDItorial inquiries jamie@sanjoaquinmagazine.com

Great Wines

Bocce

Horseshoes

ContributING WRITERS Nissa Hallquist, Tammy Hansen, Don and Ann Jackson, Patricia Kutza, Andrea Stuart, Jenn Thornton Photography Brenda Hartshorn, Dan Hood, Snap Jackson, Matthew James accounting Raman Singh EDITORIAL INTERN Katy Berry WEB DESIGNER Belinda Chron

EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING OFFICES

Happy Hour just got extended!

Activities are as abundant as the day is long. There is no end to the choices for active, energetic seniors at Rio Las Palmas in Stockton. Join in our exercise and wellness programs, visit our onsite convenience store and beauty salon, take a shopping trip or enjoy an evening of dining and great conversation with friends. Whatever your pleasure, you will find it all at one of America’s finest independent living communities.

Let Yourself Go!

San Joaquin Magazine 95 W. 11th Street, Suite 206 Tracy, CA 95376 Phone: (209) 833-9989 Fax: (209) 833-9979 Email: tony@sanjoaquinmagazine.com www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from this publisher. Photographs, graphics, and artwork are the property of Inside Magazines Publishing Company. © 2010 Inside Magazines

PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. by American Web

Call today to schedule your free lunch and tour! Ask about our move-in specials!

(209) 957-4711 Rio Las Palmas FIVESTAR★SENIORLIVING

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RCFE#397001866

printed on 10% recycled paper. All inks used contain a percentage of soy base. Our printer meets or exceeds all Federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act (RCRA) Standards. Our printer is a certified member of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

MAY 2010

By far, the best results of any advertising I have done!”

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THE P RE M IER M A G A Z I N E OF C E N TRAL VALLEY LIVI N G

Subscriptions: One (1) Year $9.95 (12 issues), or Two (2) Years $17.95 (24 issues). Special corporate and group rates are available; call 209.833.9989 for details. To begin a new subscription, or to change your address, call 209.833.9989 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. To subscribe, send your check to address on previous page, subscribe online at www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com, or call our office today at 209.833.9989. Don’t miss another issue of San Joaquin magazine.

Letters to the Editor, Calendar, Dining Guide: We welcome your input. Letters to the Editor must include your name, address (though these can be withheld on

Tiffany Gomes of Classic Design Floor to Ceiling in Lodi, chooses San Joaquin Magazine to reach her clients and get the results she needs.

Isn’t it time to call San Joaquin Magazine?

request), and a daytime phone number. Letters may be submitted via regular mail, fax, or e-mail (letters@sanjoaquin magazine.com). Calendar events should include a basic description of the event; its time, date, place, and cost; and a phone number that readers may call for more information. The

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95 w. 11th st., suite 206 tracy, california 95376

SANJOAQUIN

MAGAZINE

e-mail address for calendar items is (calendar@sanjoaquin magazine.com). To have a restaurant considered for our Dining Guide listings, contact us by phone or e-mail (dining@ sanjoaquinmagazine.com). We also encourage you to contact us if your experience at a restaurant differs significantly from our listing. Information for these sections should be submitted

Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry

at least six weeks prior to issue’s cover date.

Writer’s Guidelines: San Joaquin magazine is always on the lookout for story ideas and talented freelance writers.

To suggest a story idea, contact us via mail, fax, or e-mail (jamie@sanjoaquinmagazine.com). (San Joaquin magazine accepts freelance contributions, however, there is no guarantee that manuscripts or photography, solicited or unsolicited, will be returned.)

“making kids smile” “Our office provides a warm,

caring, environment specialized for treating the dental needs of infants,

children, and adolescents” DMD: Harvard School of Dental Medicine MPH: Harvard School of Public Health Specialty Training in Pediatric Dentistry: Univ. of Rochester Eastman Dental Center Member of American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

Advertising: San Joaquin magazine offers businesses the most cost-effective and upscale way to reach the area’s upscale consumers. Information about advertising is available on the Web at www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com. Call 209.833.9989 to request a printed media kit.

Sponsorships: San Joaquin magazine actively supports organizations that make our cities a better place to live and work. Submit sponsorship proposals to Tony Zoccoli, Publisher, at (tony@sanjoaquinmagazine.com).

Legal Stuff: San Joaquin magazine assumes no responsibility or liability for claims made by advertisers contained herein.

The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of

www.TracyPediatricDentist.com

Rafat S. Razi, D.M.D, M.P.H.

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2160 W. Grant Line Rd • Ste. 130 Tracy, CA 95377 ( 209) 834-1307

San Joaquin magazine or its parent company, Inside Magazines Publishing Company, or its owners. Inside Magazines is not responsible for typographical errors or omissions.

MAY 2010

Registration:

$10 per pet per category

*You must provide updated vaccination records at event check-in to participate.

Best Dressed - The Dog Who Resembles Their Owner Tracy’s Next Canine Supermodel - Judges’ Choice Cutest Big Dog - Cutest Small Dog Register at www.tracyartsandrec.com or in person at The Grand Theatre, 715 Central Ave. Tracy, CA 95376 For additional information call (209) 831-6858. www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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CLASS OF 2010

800.214.5113 • PHOENIX.EDU/SACRAMENTO UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX IS A FULLY ACCREDITED INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING.

© 2010 University of Phoenix, Inc. All rights reserved.

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san joaquin magazine

209.464.5246 (English)

209.888.8637 (Español)

MAY 2010

UpFront 209 TRENDS PEOPLE CULTURE STYLE

In the Company of One Pacific Baseball Coach Ed Sprague

By Jeremy Fletcher Dan Hood

Back-to-back NCAA Baseball Championships, an Olympic gold medal, and back-to-back World Series titles has put Ed Sprague in the company of one, the only man in baseball to hold all three titles. As head coach of University of the Pacific baseball, he’s reinvigorated a flailing program, and will soon be cutting the ribbon on the new Pacific baseball stadium. We’re impressed. »

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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COurtesy University of the Pacific

Sprague has lived and breathed baseball since his time leading Stockton’s St. Mary’s High School in the mid-‘80s. His Olympic gold medal was earned as a member of the 1988 U.S. baseball team, as a junior at Stanford University. Following an 11-year Major League career that included two World Series rings with the Blue Jays, an all-star season with the Pirates, and more than 150 home runs, Sprague returned to his hometown in 2003. Along with wife Kristin (a 1992 Olympic gold medalist in synchronized swimming) and their family, he arrived to take on yet another task—injecting the Pacific Baseball program with a dose of championship caliber experience.

Sprague’s arrival at Pacific and return to baseball in the Central Valley was welcomed as he took over the Tigers’ dugout and started making changes immediately. First up was to establish an identity within the program and gather support within the community. This proved to be far easier than the Tigers’ new coach expected, as a new baseball field quickly took shape on the southwest corner of campus.

“The support that we received from the community towards the project was just incredible,” says Sprague. “All the way down the line, guys stepped up and made this stadium a reality.”

The Tigers now call the nearly-finished $5 million dollar Klein Family

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Field home, and boast one of the best collegiate fields on the West Coast. This is only the first part of Sprague’s vision for his hometown baseball team.

“I wanted to build a program where we’re competing on a national level year in and year out, and that’s the number one thing,” says Sprague.

“I think if you can consistently do that, then you’ll always have a chance.

That’s the goal and it’s taken a lot longer but I still think that it’s possible.

It’s a challenge.”

Sprague is well on his way to accomplishing what he set out to do, as the Tigers recorded the program’s first back-to-back 30-win seasons in school history in 2005 and 2006 (a college baseball season is about 50 games).

With a fresh crop of recruits headlining the 2010 class, Sprague looks to move even further up Pacific’s all-time wins list.

Be it as a player in college or the pros; from the field or on the golf course; Sprague’s drive for competition and excellence has put him in elite company his entire life. He calls it a little bit of hard work and a little bit of luck. Call it whatever you’d like; just don’t expect anything less as a coach.

In fact, expect a little more.

For more information: PacificTigers.cstv.com

MAY 2010

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TRENDS, PEOPLE, CULTURE & STYLE

mother’s day brunch

Nothing says ‘I Love You’ like brunch, so if you’re looking to take your mom out on the town for Mother’s Day­— or any day—we found a few to recommend.

Also check out our restaurant section for additional information.

Lodi, Serving 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

This elegant Lodi restaurant uses local, seasonal ingredients to create a tasty brunch menu, and since Wine and Roses also has a full-service spa, you can treat your mom to a relaxing manicure and pedicure after you dine.

Wine and Roses, 2505 W. Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 334-6988, www.winerose.com.

Lodi Feed and Fuel

Lodi, Serving 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

It’s no wonder why Feed and Fuel is so busy at brunch, with a menu offering dishes like crab cake Benedict and prime rib. Or maybe it’s the ‘bottomless’ Champagne that comes with your order. Be sure to make reservations on Mother’s Day to secure your table.

Lodi Feed & Fuel, 27 W. Elm St., Lodi, (209) 365-1043, www.feedandfuelrestaurants.com.

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Bud’s Seafood

The Creamery

Sergio’s Trattoria

—Katy Berry

Stockton, Serving 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Bud’s brunch menu, which offers such classics as eggs Benedict and a quiche of the day, also comes with your choice of a freshly baked muffin or coffee cake, a bagel with cream cheese or herbed potatoes, fresh fruit, and Champagne.

Bud’s Seafood, 314 Lincoln Center, Stockton, (209) 956-0270, www.budsseafood.com.

Tracy, Serving 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

This intimate Italian restaurant offers a pleasing brunch menu and a quiet location, and since brunch is served seven days a week, you can keep coming back even after the holiday. The portions are known to be hearty, so be sure to bring your appetite.

Sergio’s Trattoria, 95 W. 11th St., Tracy, (209) 833-9640, www.sergiostrattoria.com

Stockton, Serving 8 a.m.-11 a.m.

If your mom is the all-American type, the Creamery is a great neighborhood hub to bring her for some down-home steak and eggs. The wooden booths and stained glass invite diners to feel right at home, especially when coupled with the friendly service.

The Creamery, 5756 Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 952-1111.

MAY 2010

COurtesy Wine and roses

Wine and Roses

At Play It Again Sports we stand behind every piece of equipment we sell We offer you: •30 Day Trial Period Bring your equipment back within 30 days, with your receipt, and we will refund your purchase.

•60 Day Low Price Match Guarantee We will match any advertised price on same items. Shipping charges on internet offers will be taken into consideration. Price matches include warranty matches.

828 W. Benjamin Holt Drive Stockton • 209 474 1944 www.playitagainsportsstockton.com

LIFE HAS ITS MOMENTS...

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The 4th annual kaiser Permanente Avenue of the Vines 1/2 Marathon & 5K benefits the Lodi Boys and Girls Club andthe American Heart Association

Happy Mother’s Day ...MAKE THEM UNFORGETTABLE

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Starting and finishing at the award winning Woodbridge Winery, our flat, fast and friendly half marathon and 5k courses traipse past the beautiful scenery of grape vines and mustard seed in full bloom.

Sunday, May 16, 2010 @ 7:00 am Woodbridge Winery, Acampo 5950 E. Woodbridge Rd. Acampo, CA 95220

Fees: 1/2 Mar. - $50 thru March 31; $55 thru May 10 If pre-registered, you can pick up your $62 At Fleet Feet Stockton on goodie bag, number,timing chip and shirt at 5/14 & 5/15 Fleet Feet Sports, 6541 Pacific Avenue, RACE DAY REG For Either Event Stockton (next to Trader Joes) on Friday or Registration Closing Date Saturday, May 14th and 15th from Tuesday, May 11, 2010 10am-6pm. You may also pick up your @ 11:59 PM packet on race day starting at 5:30am at Member Sponsor Woodbridge Winery. You may have others pick up your race packet.

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TRENDS, PEOPLE, CULTURE & STYLE

[In the Spotlight]

Ed Phippin Tracy Cyclery

In honor of May’s National Bike Month, coupled with National Bike to Work Week May 17-21, we set out for a few pointers about the best way to get green, get fit, and get pedaling. Tracy Cyclery owner Ed Phippin was more than happy to share some important tips for getting ready to ride.

—compiled by Katy Berry

SJM: Can someone check these components at home, or is it better to go to a professional?

EP: Some people are handier than others and can do it themselves.

I’ve also had very experienced riders who still ask questions and get check-ups. Just because you have a driver’s license, doesn’t mean you’re a mechanic.

SJM: How much does a tuneup run?

EP: The labor for a ‘33 point’ tune-

up, which is a full tune-up for a bike with gears, costs about ninety dollars. But sometimes that isn’t necessary. Each bike should be assessed individually.

SJM: If I wanted to purchase a bike for riding to and from work in a place like San Joaquin, what would a decent bicycle cost me?

EP: In the bicycle industry, you really get what you pay for. If you’re capable of spending $450, you’ll have equipment that will last for years. If you can manage it, get a bike from a bike shop. The experience is superior. Almost 90 percent of bikes come from department stores where the quality control and integrity of their parts aren’t as good. But all bikes can be worked on and improved, so if that’s what you can afford, get it.

SJM: How should one prepare physically?

EP: Make sure you adjust the way you sit on the bicycle so that it fits well. Without the right fit, fatigue will set in early. You’ll be tired and ache sooner. If you’ve been away from fitness in general, ease into it.

Don’t expect to gain fitness all at once. Consistency! If a person goes for a ride, it doesn’t have to be far or long or fast. As long as they get on the bicycle daily, in a month’s time their fitness will be completely different. And stop the ride while you’re still having fun!

For more information: Visit Tracy Cyclery, 130 W. 11th St., Tracy, (209) 835-7151

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MAY 2010

Matthew James photography

SJM: For those of us taking our bikes out of winter storage, how can we make sure the bike is in its safest working condition?

EP: There are four basic things to look at. I call it “pedal, steer, stop, and roll.”

‘Pedal’ means checking if the chain is properly lubed and the drive train components are shifting correctly. ‘Steer’ means making sure the headset and fork are properly adjusted. They shouldn’t wobble, or move improperly. ‘Stop’ means inspecting the brake pads, making sure their brake levers don’t collapse all the way to their grip.

The tension on the cable should be correct. Brake pads also dry up and get hard over time and they won’t stop the rim if they’ve gone bad. ‘Roll’ means inspecting the tires. Make sure the sidewalls aren’t cracking and that the tubes are holding the air.

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TRENDS, PEOPLE, CULTURE & STYLE

Floral Notes

Flower arranging classes hit the spot

209: san joaquin summer camps It won’t be long now before school’s out for the summer, and we’ll be looking to keep our children occupied during the long break. Fortunately, there are a number of area summer camps that cater to any interest your child may have, from the arts to sports to science.

Pacific Music Camps

June 7-10, separate boy and girl lacrosse day camps will be held at St. Mary’s High School in Stockton. www.allwestlacrossecamps.com

For student musicians in fifth through twelfth grades, a variety of camps focusing on different ensemble and musical styles. Faye Spanos Concert Hall, University of the Pacific. web.pacific.edu/x1283.xml

Children’s Museum of Stockton Summer Camp For children ages 5 through 12, try several weeks of fun, themed activities throughout the summer at this Stockton museum. www. stocktongov.com/childrensmuseum

In-Shape Health Clubs Summer Camp June 7-August 26, children ages 5 to 12 can have fun and stay fit, with activities including racquetball, tennis, water sports, rock climbing, dance, arts and crafts, and so on.

Various locations. www.inshapeclubs.com

Pacific Baseball Academy Baseball camps for children age 7 years through high school, starting June 21 and running through July at the new Klein Family Field on Stockton’s University of the Pacific campus. www.collegebaseballcamps.com

San Francisco Floral Co., 2001 Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 466-4973

Play-Well Summer Camp

Children in seventh to twelfth grades can appreciate science and engineering by building with LEGOs, June 14-18 and July 1923 at the Tracy Sports Complex. www.play-well.org

Stockton Rowing Club For beginners on up, two summer camps, June 21-25 and July 26-30, will teach children between seventh and twelfth grades how to row and work with a team. www.stocktonrowing.org

Summer Safari For children ages 5 to 15, this camp will be held all summer at Lodi Lake Park and features a wide range of activities, from movie showings to outdoor activities to arts and crafts. www.lodi.gov

Zoofari Camps

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Through fun activities and demonstrations, children in the age groups of 4-6, 7-8, and 9-12 can learn about animals and conservation at Micke Grove Zoo, June 21-July 30. www.mgzoo.com —Nissa Hallquist san joaquin magazine

MAY 2010

Left to RIght: I-stock; Michael Brooking

All-West Lacrosse Camp

Jenny-Faye Klooster of San Francisco Floral Co. in Stockton is giving flower enthusiasts the opportunity to have fun while creating their own arrangements at her Floral Design Parties. Each party costs $30-$60 per person, depending on the flowers chosen, and can last anywhere from two to four hours, depending on the party size. Klooster encourages each group to bring snacks and beverages, and participants will leave with their own beautiful arrangements as well as new skills they can use again and again. For those wanting a more serious, in-depth study of floral design, she also offers a series of beginner, intermediate, and advanced courses. Each two-hour class is $45-$50 and includes supplies.

—Katy Berry

R OU BUY E! Y R R E CL E O ITU T! Y N R C N RE ITU FUR ONME IR RN D FU YCLE E ENV H C RE ELP T

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Watch out for fast moving furniture

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MAY 2010

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In California, we are lucky to have some of the best weather that Mother Nature has to offer. Take advantage of the long sunny days, get outside, and do something fun in San Joaquin or beyond.

MAY

May 7 Pops & Picnic Join Maestro Peter Jaffe and the Stockton Symphony for an evening featuring “Hollywood Hits” from movies like Ghost Busters, Gone with the Wind, and Star Wars. For added fun, go dressed as your favorite movie star, action hero, or comic book character. Sample from the decadent buffet and wine and martini bars, or prove yourself a devoted fan as you bid on auction treasures. 6:30-8 p.m. Tickets $20-$80.

Alex G. Spanos Center, University of the Pacific, 3601 Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 951-0196, www.stocktonsymphony.org

Courtesy zinfest / lodi wine and visitor center

guide compiled by Tera Garcia

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

May 7 Harvey Kessel Memorial Golf Tournament Give Tiger a run for his money at the fifth annual Harvey Kessel Memorial Golf Tournament, benefitting both the San Joaquin Historical Society and Micke Grove Zoological Society. The Gold Sponsor level includes two foursomes at $1,200, Silver Sponsor is one foursome at $600, Individual Sponsor is $130, and Hole Sponsor is $150. 11 a.m.

Micke Grove Golf Links, 11401 N. Micke Grove Rd., Lodi, (209) 3391096, www.sanjoaquinhistory.org May 13 RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles If you’re a true Beatlemaniac, then Rain is an experience not to be missed. Check out historical footage and hilarious television commercials from the 1960s that follow the Fab Four from their early beginnings through the psychedelic late ‘60s and everywhere in between. Sing along to favorites like “Hey Jude,” “Can’t Buy Me Love,” and “Here Comes the Sun.” 7:30 p.m. Tickets $25-$48. Bob Hope Theatre, 242 E. Main Street, Stockton, (209) 337-4673, www. bobhopetheatre.com

May 13-16 Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee This old-fashioned county fair dates back to the 1800s and features frog jumping contests throughout the week, as well as exhibits, entertainment, rodeo, horse events, livestock exhibits, and a carnival.

Here, everyone is your neighbor and you’re hosted by the friendliest people on earth. Start training your award-winning jumper frog now to beat out the world record of 21 feet, 5 and ¾ inches. 8 a.m.-midnight daily. $9 adults, $5 kids. Calaveras County Fairgrounds, 101 Frogtown Road, Angels Camp, (209) 736-2561, www.frogtown.org

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May 14-16 ZinFest Whether you prefer robust reds, sweet blushes, or crisp whites, Lodi’s sixth annual three-day homage to everything Zinfandel will satisfy your thirst for vino. Friday evening’s Vintners’ Grille is an exclusive gathering to meet and mingle with Lodi’s winemakers; Saturday’s wine festival will host more than 250 wineries and delicious food around beautiful Lodi Lake; Sunday the individual wineries open their doors for tasting, seminars, and fun. Vintners’ Grille 6-9 p.m., Festival 12-6 p.m., Open House 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Festival tickets $45 in advance, $55 at the gate. Lodi Lake, 1301 W. Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 365-0621, www.zinfest.com May 15 Linden Cherry Festival Celebrate the harvest with a cherry on top, at this local festival that serves up wholesome fun. The event kicks off with a parade, and highlights include food tasting, arts and crafts, carnival games and rides, a car show, a firefighter demonstration, and bake-offs for a range of age groups. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Linden Elementary School Grounds, 18100 E. Front St., Linden, (209) 547-3046, www.lindenchamber.net May 16 Avenue of the Vines Half Marathon and 5K With beautiful grape vines in full bloom as the backdrop, this marathon is sure to fly by in no time. Avenue of the Vines runs through the country roads of Lodi, with over 1,500 fitness enthusiasts running to benefit the Lodi Boys and Girls Club and the American Heart Association.

Overall Men’s and Women’s winners will receive their weight in wine. 7 a.m. Registration fees $35-$62, depending on distance and date of registration.

Woodbridge Winery, 5950 E. Woodbridge Rd., Acampo, (209) 952-1446, www.fleetfeetstockton.com

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of the finest food and drink that San Joaquin has to offer, with wines from over 25 local wineries and hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants. Also featuring the musical talents of jazz band The Esquires, as well as historical exhibits, a silent auction, and raffle. 5-8:30 p.m. Tickets $40.

Historical Museum at Micke Grove Park, 11793 N. Micke Grove Rd., Lodi, (209) 931-4009, www.stocktonsunrise.org

May 22 Delta Loop Fest This day on the Delta offers visitors the chance to travel the 10-mile stretch of Brannan Island Road and enjoy boat displays, car shows, wine tasting, a bikini contest, fishing seminars, and more. 10 a.m. Free admission.

Brannan Island Road, Isleton, (209) 777-6161, www. deltaloop.com May 29 Mayor’s Hike and Bike This Tour de Stockton features two route choices for both hikers and bikers, ranging in distance from 2 to 18 miles. Whatever your fitness level may be, this event is a great way for the whole family to get moving.

Upon your return, enjoy refreshments and the Get Fit Health Fair, featuring health and fitness information and live entertainment. This event will benefit the nutrition programs of Catholic Charities, the Emergency Food Bank, and the Gospel Center Rescue Mission. 8:30 a.m.

Registration fee $25 prior, $30 day of. Banner Island Ballpark, 404 W. Fremont St., Stockton, (209) 4647369, www.stocktonhikeandbike.org

JUNE

June 4 Sunrise Stockton Rotary Wine Tasting Swirl, sniff, sip, and repeat—at Sunrise Stockton Rotary’s twenty-fifth annual Wine Tasting, there’s sure to be something to tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy some

June 5 Annual Youth Fishing Derby The twenty-fifth annual Fishing Derby at Oak Grove Park’s 10-acre lake allows young anglers, ages 15 and under, the chance to catch up to 2,500 pounds of one-to-two pound catfish, with a few trophy-sized fish thrown in for fun. Kids will compete for prizes for the biggest catch, and can enjoy casting contests, a fishing simulator video game, and more. 6 a.m.-12 p.m. Free admission. Oak Grove Regional Park, 4520 W. Eight Mile Rd., Lodi, (209) 3312050, www.mgzoo.com June 6 Jewish Food Festival Celebrate Jewish culture and Temple Israel’s heritage of more than 150 years in Stockton. Enjoy a tasty brunch of bagels and lox or a corned beef sandwich. Be sure to catch the first annual bagel-making demonstration, or browse the Jewish deli and bakery for take-out. This family event includes Temple tours, traditional music and dancing, a silent auction, beer garden, and games for the kids. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free admission. Brunch $10. Temple Israel, 5105 N. El Dorado St., Stockton, (209) 4779306, www.stockton.urj.net June 11 Downtown Stockton Art Walk Downtown Stockton gets an art makeover each second Friday in summertime, June through August. Take a selfguided tour through local businesses turned into ‘galleries’, and admire the work of local artists. When you’re done with your walk, enjoy a late night beer garden, local live entertainment, food tasting, plays, poetry and street performers, and artist presentations. 5-9 p.m. Free.

Downtown Stockton, 142 N. El Dorado St., Stockton, (209) 464-5246, www.downtownstockton.org MAY 2010

This Page (Left to Right): ZinfeSt/Lodi Wine and Visitor Center; Sunrise Stockton Rotary; Micke Grove Zoological society. Opposite Page: San Joaquin County Fair

May 21-22 Summer Music at Abundance Vineyards If you’re suffering from the summertime blues, then Crosstown 5 is just what the doctor ordered. This band’s energy and upbeat songs will keep you on your feet and moving to the beat. Grab a few drinks and enjoy dance songs from the 1950s to today. 6-10 p.m. $5 admission. Abundance Vineyards, 1150 W. Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 334-0274, www.abundancevineyards.com

princess contest. With more than 15 vendors offering jewelry, crafts, and clothes, you’re sure to walk away with a Native American keepsake. Don’t forget to bring a lawn chair. 11 a.m.- 9 p.m. Free admission, Parking $5. Oak Grove Regional Park, 4520 W. Eight Mile Rd., Stockton, (209) 663-0923, www.visitstockton.org

June 16-20 San Joaquin County Fair If you’ve been craving a funnel cake all winter, now is the time to enjoy some deep-fried goodness. Put on your cowboy hat, hop on that Ferris wheel, and have some good ole’ fashioned fair fun. Make your way through carnival rides and games, livestock and agriculture exhibits, horse races, food and drink, and live entertainment. Past performances have included Faith Hill, Bret Michaels, and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.

Noon-11 p.m., admission gates close 9:30 p.m.

Tickets $9 adults, $5 children. San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, 1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton, (209) 466-5041, www.sanjoaquinfair.com June 19 Heritage Oak Art Fair and Concert Treat Dad to some quality time with the whole family Father’s Day weekend. Browse and buy the works of more than twenty local craftsmen and artists in the shade of the Heritage Oak Hummingbird Garden. Also featuring local vintners’ finest wines, food selections, and live music. 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Free admission. Heritage Oak Winery, 10112 E. Woodbridge Rd., Acampo, (209) 986-2763, www.heritageoakwinery.com June 19-20 Isleton Crawdad Festival Experience the best of Louisiana, Delta-style at this huge festival known to bring in over 50,000 visitors to the delta riverfront town. According to Isleton, the festival boasts the most crawdads anywhere outside of the Southern state, with more than 24,000 pounds of crawdads served up in just one weekend. Also featuring beer, wine, and entertainment, this event is sure to be the highlight of the festival season. Admission $5 adults, free for children 12 and under. Downtown Isleton, off Hwy. 160, (916) 7775880, www.isletoncoc.org June 20 Red Circle Father’s Day Powwow Honor dear old dad as well as Native American culture at the Red Circle Father’s Day Powwow. Enjoy and partake in traditional dances, live drum performances, and a www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

June 26 Art on the Square For those that crave culture, Lodi’s eighth annual Art on the Square is your one stop shop for art, entertainment, food, and wine. Peruse the showcases of fine art that capture the history and lifestyle of Lodi wine country, while sipping on some of the finest wines grown right here in our own backyard. With plenty of activities for kids, this event is an ideal weekend festival for the whole family. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Free admission. Hutchins Street Square, 125 S. Hutchins St., Lodi, (209) 333-6800, www.lodiarts.org

JULY July 3 Taste of San Joaquin Sample the local flavor at Stockton’s annual Taste of San Joaquin celebration—entertainment, food, regional wine, and the West Coast’s best barbeque eats. In addition to cuisine from local eateries, over thirty of the most talented chefs from all over the western U.S. will battle for a California State Championship title for the best barbeque recipes. All proceeds benefit local charities and improvement of downtown Stockton.

11 a.m.-10 p.m. Free admission. Weber Point Events Center, 221 N. Center St., Stockton, (209) 464-5426, www.downtownstockton.org

July 3 All American Pub Crawl How far can you crawl? With three drinks and three appetizers included, plus admission to at least 10 bars

and entrance into the Stockton Ports baseball game, we’ll be impressed if you’re still standing by the end of the night. A wristband also gets you trolley transportation around downtown Stockton and the Miracle Mile all night, and a discounted room at the Lexington Plaza Waterfront Hotel. Past participating bars include Chitiva’s, Misaki Sushi, and Valley Brew. Pick up your wristband between 5-8 p.m. Wristbands $17-$30. Janet Leigh Plaza, 222 N. El Dorado St., Stockton, (209) 4645426, www.downtownstockton.org July 4 Fourth with the Ports Celebrate Independence Day the good ole’ fashioned American way—with baseball, hot dogs, and fireworks.

The Stockton Ports will go head to head with the Modesto Nuts wearing special stars and stripes jerseys to be auctioned off after the game. What die-hard Ports fan wouldn’t want a signed jersey complete with sweat and dirt? Be sure to stick around for fireworks presented

by Comcast. Game 7:05 p.m. Tickets $5-$15. Banner Island Ballpark, 404 W. Fremont Street, Stockton, (209) 644-1900, www.stocktonports.com July 4 Independence Day at Lodi Lake Spend America’s 234th birthday day at Lodi Lake. Wake up early for the Sunrise Kiwanis pancake breakfast.

The south side of Lodi Lake will be open all day for picnicking, with swimming and paddle-boat rental available. The day will end with a bang with fireworks over Lodi Lake. Pancake breakfast 7 a.m., festival to follow. Fireworks 9 p.m. Free admission. Lodi Lake Park, 1101 W. Turner Road, Lodi, (209) 333-6742, www.lodi.gov July 9 Sugarland at Ironstone Vineyards Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush make up country duo Sugarland, who’ve sold more than 8 million records since hitting the music scene in 2004. They’ve received awards from the Grammys and American Music Awards, and most recently the duo received a nomination for “Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals” for their number one hit, “It Happens,” at the 2010 Grammy Awards. Also featuring opening acts Michelle Branch and Will Hoge, this concert will surely be the talk of the summer. 8 p.m. Tickets $47-$175.

Ironstone Vineyards, 1894 Six Mile Rd., Murphys, (209) 728-1251, www.ironstoneamphitheatre.net July 11 Lodi Cycle Fest Take a trip into the world of wheels at Lodi’s Cycle Fest. This event will bring hundreds of competitors san joaquin magazine

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July 17 Taste of the Delta Sponsored by the California Delta Chamber and Visitors Bureau, enjoy this celebration of everything to do with the Delta waters. Sample local wines and food, enjoy vendor booths and live music, and silent and live auctions. Ticket includes souvenir wine glass and appetizer plate. 1-4 p.m.

Tickets $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Windmill Cove Resort and Marina, 7600 Windmill Cove, Stockton, (916) 777-4041, www.tasteofthedelta.com

AUGUST August 1 Stockton Obon Bazaar The Stockton Buddhist Temple hosts this annual Japanese cultural festival, which features traditional music, dance, tea ceremonies, karate, judo demonstrations, and much more. Also enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine prepared at the church, ranging from sushi and udon noodles to pastries, and traditional activities from martial arts to a Japanese sword display to bonsai plants, and more. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Free admission. Stockton Buddhist Temple, 2820 Shimizu Drive, Stockton, (209) 466-6921, www. stocktonbuddhisttemple.org August 6 First Friday Art Hop Sample music, coffee, and appetizers as you walk the streets of downtown Lodi admiring the beautiful work of

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local artists. Sponsored by the Lodi Arts Commission, First Friday Art Hop “gallery” locations include the Thomas Theatre Gallery at Hutchins Street Square, Lodi Community Art Center, Dancing Fox Winery and Bakery, Scooters, Java Stop, McKinleys Frame Shop, and more.

6-8:30 p.m. Free admission. Thomas Theatre Gallery, 125 S. Hutchins Street, Lodi, (209) 333-5511, www. lodiarts.org August 20 B.B. King, Al Green, and Buddy Guy at Ironstone Vineyards What better way to enjoy hot August nights, then to chill out to soulful blues music? B.B. King and Buddy Guy are both ranked at the top of Rolling Stone’s “100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time,” while Al Green is ranked on the “100 Greatest Artists of All Time.” All three musicians have served as the inspiration for many generations— you simply cannot miss seeing these living legends.

7:30 p.m. Tickets $45-$160. Ironstone Vineyards, 1894 Six Mile Road, Murphys, (209) 728-1251, www. ironstoneamphitheatre.net August 21 Regional Go Kart Races Call it an adrenaline rush for all ages, the Regional Go Kart Races are a great way to stay active whether you’re age 5 or 50. At top speeds of 75 miles per hour, these races aren’t for the faint of heart. Described as the “fastest growing family motorsport in America,” this is truly a family affair. You must own your own go-kart to participate, but spectators are also welcome. 9 a.m. $60 for members, $70 for non-members. $8 for spectators. San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, 1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton, (209) 595-2200, www. stocktonmotorplex.com August 22 Miracle Mile Night Reminisce on decades past with music from the ‘50s, ‘60s, and ‘70s, and the cars to match. This event features two entertainment stages with live bands including RB/X, Threshold, and Icarus Jones Collective.

With a classic car show, arts and crafts, a kids zone, and wine tasting, there will be activities to suit all age groups.

5-10 p.m. Free admission. Miracle Mile, 1800 block of Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 464-5426 , www. miraclemilenight.com August 28 Jennifer Lind and the Hired Guns at Abundance Vineyards Take a listen to up-and-coming artist Jennifer Lind.

Lind has a flair for ballads, and a unique crossover sound of country mixed with folk that captures listeners’

attention. Enjoy music from her debut album, “Cowboy State of Mind.” 6-10 p.m. Free admission. Abundance Vineyards, 1150 W. Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 334-0274, www.abundancevineyards.com August 28 Reggae on the Delta Breadfruit Tree restaurant takes you away on a tropical vacation without ever leaving Stockton. Featuring an expansive patio overlooking the Delta waters, authentic Caribbean cuisine, and island paradise décor, you’ll soon forget all your problems and relax, mon. Caribbean rhythms will rock your evening, while you enjoy traditional food and drinks, a limbo contest, and silent auction. 5:30-9 p.m. Breadfruit Tree Restaurant, 8095 Rio Blanco Rd., Stockton, (209) 951-6921, www.breadfruittree.com [SJM]

If you don’t mind driving a little further for some fun in the summer sun, be sure to stop by these out-of-the-area events.

Strawberry Festival May 15-16, Galt (209) 745-2529, www.galtchamber.com Chocolate Festival May 15-16, Oakdale (209) 847-2244, www.oakdalechamber.com Sacramento Jazz Jubilee May 28-31, Sacramento (916) 372-5277, www.sacjazz.com Apricot Fiesta June 4-6, Patterson (209) 892-3118, www.patterson-ca.com California State Fair July 14-August 1, Sacramento (916) 263-FAIR, www.bigfun.org Garlic Festival July 23-25, Gilroy (408) 842-1625, www.gilroygarlicfestival.com Xclamation Fest August 7, Modesto (209) 312-3463, www.xfestmodesto.com

MAY 2010

Courtesy taste of the delta/ delta visitors and convention bureau

and thousands of bicycling enthusiasts to the quaint downtown area of Lodi. Featuring an expo area, bikes and racers navigating the downtown course at speeds reaching 40 miles per hour, a free kids and adult beach cruiser race, and a raffle of beach cruisers, this event will leave your wheels spinning. Amateur races 8 a.m., professional races 1 p.m. For cyclists $27-$35, free for spectators. School Street, Downtown Lodi, (209) 810-3513, www.deltavelo.com/lodi_cycle_fest.html

Special Exhibition

San Joaquin County Historical Museum Micke Grove Regional Park

for related programs see www.SanJoaquinHistory.org (209) 331-2055 (209) 953-3460

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Cash Tribute featuring James Garner

A Musical Tribute to Johnny Cash

May 28 • 8:00 pm Kirst Hall $20.00 reserved seating BBQ Dinner – 7:00 pm (extra charge)

The Inagural

RUN on the SQUARE

Art on the Square Saturday June 26th 9am to 6pm

Run on the Square

Race to Benefit Lodi Arts 5 & 10K Run June 26th 8:30 am

125 S. Hutchins Street, Lodi 209.333.5550 • www.hutchinsstreetsquare.com

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Home With A

View

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MAY 2010

A Stockton couple finds their home sweet home...

For two people that have been all over the world, one might ask ‘Why retire in Stockton?’ The answer is a home with everything both Sherry and Tim Glines have dreamt of their whole life, from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Delta waters, to three guest rooms—a king’s room, queen’s room, and one for the grandchildren—to a grandson living right across the street. “People really ask, ‘Of all the places, why Stockton?’” says Sherry. “When I look out every day and see the sunset over the Delta, that’s why.” »

by Jamie MEnaker photos Matthew James photography

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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FIRST PLACE, amateur: Steve Mullens

welcome...

Even though Sherry and Tim ended up in their dream home, it wasn’t the original plan. Living happily just down the street, the Glines’ happened to attend an open house event when the home was first built, and immediately made an offer from a mere few doors down. With five kids and six grandkids between the two of them, the Glines’ jumped at the chance to have the square-footage for the whole family to enjoy their home. Outside, they have a whole other living space as well, with their sparkling pool and

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guest house off the back patio (Sherry has had her girlfriends over for massages in the guest house and girl time by the pool), and an entire outdoor kitchen, fireplace, and outdoor living room on the upper deck—all overlooking the Delta.

The front view of the home speaks for itself, not far off from the classic image of a castle, with inlaid stones and an intricate iron gate. Visitors feel the calm and serenity that the Glines’ have built for themselves right from the start, with a bubbling fountain beside glass front MAY 2010

Local Resources Interior Design: C.R. Porter Home DĂŠcor, (209) 956-9250, www.crporterhome.com Landscaping: Frank Bowden, Meadow Landscaping, (209) 649-2530 Jeff Gamboni, Landscape Architect, (209) 948-8335 Pool: Blue Haven Pools, Modesto Outdoor Furniture: Pottery World, Rocklin Iron Work: Ornamental Iron Work, Stockton Frank Bono, (209) 463-9632 Fixtures and Tile: Architectural Amenities, Stockton

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inside... doors embellished with artistic iron work. Downstairs, a game room with pool table, two guest rooms, one of two laundry rooms, an exercise room, and Jim’s office all find a peaceful home. “We don’t use the downstairs much unless the family is over, we have another whole house down there almost,” Sherry laughs. “Isn’t it nice that all the things you dreamt of your whole life when you have young kids, like having two laundry rooms, by the time you get them, it’s just you that’s left to enjoy them?”

Upstairs, at the top of the circular staircase, is where the Glines’ have made their haven, with a wide-open floor plan and the sweeping Delta views that are the signature of the home. The same inlaid stones from outside echo in a grand arch at the apex of the great room—dining room, living room, and kitchen all in one. Comfortable enough to be a hideaway for the Glines’ while large enough to house any size gathering, the home is another artfully-designed creation from Chris and Tammy Kelley of C.R. Porter.

The kitchen is all stainless steel, with a double door subzero fridge and two ovens, and seating comes in many options—low leather ottomans at the hutch where Sherry and Jim dine and their grandson likes to watch Jim cook, tall bar stools at the kitchen counter, and a ten-person dining table that’s anything but formal. The kitchen area

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opens up to the outdoor deck in warm weather with even more seating, and Jim has had as many as fifty people at one time over to enjoy the waterfront home.

More than anything, the home is fit to exactly the specifications that Tim and Sherry love. An elevator between the two levels of the home is perfect for bringing home groceries after a long day. The ‘Queen’s Guest Room’ upstairs is fitted with a deep white porcelain tub and flatscreen TV that can be tilted either towards the bed or the bathroom, and a guest book where visitors that stay in the room are invited to leave their mark. The master bedroom houses a room-sized walk-in closet and a copper tub where Jim loves to read, and the adjacent outdoor nook has a straight-shot view to their grandson’s bedroom window across the street and between the trees.

The room dearest to the couple’s hearts is Jim’s office.

Head of a closed circuit security camera company, with branches both in California and New York, Jim’s team was responsible for securing the site of the fallen Twin Towers in the twenty-four hours following the September 11 attack.

The walls of the office are dedicated to memorabilia, photos, and badges that Jim has been gifted in honor of his company’s brave involvement. [SJM]

MAY 2010

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SAUSALITO: Beauty and the Bay

The sweeping Cavallo Point hotel

If you’re up for a unforgettable weekend or day getaway, we’re about to make your day. Getting away to artsy Sausalito, the closest Marin County town to the Golden Gate Bridge, with blockbuster vistas of San Francisco, is a compelling place to unwind.

This eclectic community with over 200 art galleries and shops combined with those breathtaking views has always had an almost magnetic draw. An astonishing list of top-notch lodging choices, highly touted restaurants, and a cornucopia of intriguing activities abound.

A Little History: In the early 1900s, Sausalito was a bustling transportation hub, during prohibition it was known as a hangout for bootleggers, and during World War II the population increased to over 30,000 as it became one of the country’s most successful ship building communities. Operating round-the-clock, Sausalito reportedly set a ship-building record by cranking out 93 Liberty Ships and tankers in just a few years of operation. After the war, the city once again downsized and became a bohemian hangout for well-known artists, writers, and musicians, and not too surprisingly, a famous San

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Francisco madam was elected mayor. Today, Sausalito is recognized as one of California’s most prestigious residential communities and a superb getaway destination during any season.

What to do: Still known as an artists’ haven, browsing through the many diverse galleries is certainly a must for art lovers. Our favorite: Fingerhut Gallery (www.fingerhutart.com). Strolling the entire town, waterfront and nearby Fort Baker area are easy propositions and highly recommended.

Another emphatic suggestion: Drive out to the Marin Headlands along the water’s edge, a good portion on a one-way road, and you’ll encounter picture-perfect moments at each rugged turn. While in the Headlands be sure to make these stops—the newly rebuilt state-of-theart Marine Mammal Center (www.marinemammalcenter.org), recognized MAY 2010

Courtesy Kodiak Greenwood/ Cavallo Point

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Sweet pea ravioli At Murray Circle

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Cavallo Point

For complete info about events, arts, and more, visit www.sausalito.org.

MAY 2010

CLockwise from top left: Kodiak Greenwood/murray circle (2); MIchael Venera/ Cavallo Point; Casa madrona; Steven Rothfeld/ Cavallo poiint; david wakely/ marine mammal center

Where to Stay and Dine: Cavallo Point Lodge (www. cavallopoint.com), located on the former Fort Baker property overlooking San Francisco and the Bay, is the first new premier lodge opened on National Park Service property in years and has been receiving major buzz. Whether you stay in the beautifully converted former homes of high ranking officers or the brand-new lodging facilities on the hill, you’ll be blown away by the tasteful décor and amenities. Don’t miss a peaceful visit to their Healing Arts Center and Spa. If it’s a clear day, another must is the brief half-hour hike from behind the former chapel to the top of the hill for ultimate views. For a special occasion dinner, be sure to dine at their signature restaurant, Murray Circle, the only Michelin star-rated dining in Marin County. Another option, Casa Madrona Hotel and Spa (www.casamadrona.com), a classic inn and personal favorite for years, dramatically combines historic Victorian architecture and modern amenities on a steep hillside. Poggio, an authentic Tuscan trattoria in Casa Madrona, provides one of the best Northern Italian culinary experiences we’ve had anywhere in a long time.

Other dining tips: For a happy hour and nightlife hangout, Horizons (www.horizonssausalito.com) has a long history of celebrity activities (Robin Williams worked here, and for folks like Janis Joplin and Mick Jagger it was ‘party central’). For seafood, try Scomas (www.scomassausalito. com), popular sister restaurant to the one in San Francisco; and for the best bistro, be sure to dine at Le Garage (www. legaragebistrosausalito.com)—this locals country French favorite is actually in a garage, but the food warrants a Rolls Royce parking spot.

More lodging options: Inn Above Tide if you prefer to be on the water (www.innabovetide.com); Hotel Sausalito is a stylish, early 1900s mission-revival boutique inn centrally located on the town square with complimentary morning coffee and pastries (www.hotelsausalito.com); Gables Inn is another attractively refurbished historic inn that provides complimentary evening wine and cheese (www. gablesinnsausalito.com). [SJM]

CAvallo point

Marine mammal Center

as one of the world’s finest rescue and rehabilitation facilities; the secluded Rodeo Beach; the landmark Point Bonita Lighthouse (open Saturday through Monday, 12:303:30 p.m.); and for you military buffs, don’t miss the only restored U.S Army Nike Missile site in the country, where you can actually tour the underground site. After watching the gigantic missile rise out of its hidden location, you’ll then step onto the elevator platform and return to the former top-secret bunker while holding onto the missile.

(Wednesday through Friday, tours at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m.) Major bonus: No admission fees for any of the above. For info on the Headlands, Point Bonita, and the Missile Site, visit www.nps.gov/goga/marin-headlands.htm.

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100 ANÕS DE REVOLUCION! 200 ANÕS DE INDEPENDCIA! VIVA MEXICO! !

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MAY 2010

food&wine

DINING REVIEWS WINE

Chef Michael Warren in the Kitchen

Spotlight:

Crush Kitchen and Bar

By Jamie Menaker | photos by dan Hood

These days, more restaurants than not are moving toward the use of locallygrown, sustainable produce. It’s in the best interest of both protecting the environment and keeping business in our local communities, but the added bonus is some of the freshest food to hit restaurant tables in a long time. We hear so much of this buzz in the culinary world that we’re hard pressed to tell which eateries are the real standouts, and which are just talk. Michael Warren, of Crush Kitchen and Bar in Lodi, is the real deal and then some, or as he puts it, “real food for real people.” »

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FOOD&WINE

I Restaurant spotlight Open only six months, since November 2009, Warren chose Lodi as the home for his new restaurant based on its location in the heart of San Joaquin’s thriving agriculture. The restaurant uses anything locally possible, from chicken and eggs to local sauerkraut and pickles. Everything served at the restaurant is made on-site from scratch, other than the gelato—“because no one makes gelato better than Gelato Classico”—and Warren and his partner Michael Thomas even house a garden and orchard on their property that will supply almost 80 percent of the fruits and veggies for the restaurant throughout the summer. Warren really isn’t kidding when he says local.

“Food tastes different when it comes from within ten to thirty miles away. We are in the Mecca here in San Joaquin—we grow a large percent of the nation’s vegetables right here. We’re living in the middle of an agricultural dream for a chef.”

The opening of Crush is actually the fulfillment of Warren’s personal dream, growing up in restaurants his entire career. From busboy to kitchen, Warren is a self-taught chef, and made a business of over eighteen years as a restaurant consultant helping culinary entrepreneurs open their eateries, from concept to décor, to training the staff, to the actual dishes on the menu.

Within hours of walking into Crush’s current home in Lodi’s Woolworth Plaza (he likes to call it the Lincoln Center of Lodi), Warren knew that he had found his spot and was signing on the dotted line.

“I named the restaurant Crush because we’re in the middle of wine country, we opened not long after the Lodi crush last year, and I’ve always loved the name. We chose Kitchen and Bar afterwards because a restaurant really is a kitchen, once you take away all that other stuff. And a kitchen really is the heart of a home.”

Crush has found a home here in Lodi with diners that are looking for a casual eatery with fresh, homegrown

ingredients. The menu has a strong Northern Italian influence, with dishes like lasagna with housemade mozzarella, but Warren’s dual background in Asian cuisine also dictates that everything on the menu is light and fresh­—the individual ingredients are always the standouts here. Starters like Warren’s hummus plate with edamame hummus, feta cheese, and chili sesame oil set the tone for the meal, followed by a selection of salads: a house salad with Crush’s not-to-be-missed signature dressing; a citrus salad with arugula, Valencia orange, grapefruit, and jalapeno vinaigrette; and a to-die-for button mushroom and spinach salad.

The lasagna is vegetarian but has just the texture of meat lasagna from secret ingredient smoked scamorza cheese, leaving all parties satisfied.

Sashimi-grade salmon is served atop coconut curry couscous and citrus fruits for a light, clean summer dish.

All cocktails are made from hand fresh-squeezed juices.

“We literally make everything from scratch,” says Warren. “It takes a lot of time, but it really does taste different when you love what you do, and you make it from your soul. Once I got them here, in my seats, I knew I could keep them with my food.”

An expert in floral arranging almost as long as he’s been in the restaurant business, Warren also opened up Dahlia Designs right next door, specializing in weddings and special events but also open to walk-ins. “I’m doing both simultaneously like I’ve done my whole life. I just jump around wherever I’m needed to whatever needs my special touch. That, and I have a fabulous staff.”

Warren, ever on to the next, looks forward to adding guest chef nights with chefs from other local restaurants (the first was with Chef Ruben Larrazolo from Alebrijes Mexican Food), wine socials, a specialty market in downtown Lodi tentatively titled the Gourmet Garage, and classic movies on the al fresco patio outside the restaurant while diners are eating.

Crush Kitchen and Bar 115 S. School St., Lodi • (209) 369-5400, www.crushkitchen.com

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MAY 2010

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To schedule an appointment to review your needs, please contact: Tony Zoccoli 209.833.9989 e-mail: tony@sanjoaquinmagazine.com 33 SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE

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$650.00 SUGGESTED RETAIL

Visit FINA to find these exceptional b r a n d s, a c c e s s o r i e s a n d m u c h m o r e.

FINA 240 Lincoln Center Stockton, Ca Now open on Sundays 12-4

(209) 478-5670 www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

san joaquin magazine

53

FOOD&WINE

I WINE PICKS

A Celebration of Zinfandel

by Michael Perry

Of all the different grape varieties made into wine, Zinfandel is the one most people consider California’s native grape.

While it has been proven that Zinfandel is native to Croatia (Slovenia), its long and colorful history in this state has given it ‘favorite son’ status, and Lodi has recently been at the forefront of Zinfandel production.

Zinfandel is picked late in the harvest season, providing optimal maturity. Known for its bright, fresh fruit aromas

and flavors as well as its spiciness, black pepper, and oak nuances, it is a wonderfully complex wine great for sipping but equally comfortable at the dinner table.

Lodi Zinfandels cover a variety of styles—look for these and many more during the month of May. Be sure to mark your calendar and save the weekend of May 14-16 to attend Lodi’s ZinFest: Wine, Food, and Fun at Lodi Lake.

Sherry Roberts

Lighter Style

Medium Body

Medium to Full Body

Benson Ferry 95240 “Old Vine” Zinfandel

St. Amant Mohr-Fry “Old Vine” Zinfandel

Harney Lane Lizzy James “Old Vine” Zinfandel

Campus Oaks “Old Vine” Zinfandel

Macchia Mischievous “Old Vine” Zinfandel

M2 Soucie Vineyard “Old Vine” Zinfandel

Ironstone Reserve “Old Vine” Zinfandel

Michael-David 7 Deadly Zins “Old Vine”

KlinkerBrick Old Ghost “Old Vine” Zinfandel

Zinfandel

For more information: Visit the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center, and taste from a selection of over two hundred award-winning Lodi wines. 2545 W. Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 367-4727, www.lodiwine.com

54

san joaquin magazine

MAY 2010

family winery

Tasting Room Open Daily 11:00am-5:00pm 340 West Highway 12 Lodi, CA ph 866-334-5722 fx 209-334-5726

Voted the “Best Tasting Room in San Joaquin County” & “Best Zin in America”

12:00pm – 5:00pm

Tasting Room Open Monday - Friday 10:00am – 4:00pm

7889 East Harney Lane Lodi, CA 95240 Ph 209-369-5392

23627 N. De Vries Lodi, Ca 95242 Ph 209-365-6566

Tasting Room open Thursday – Monday Home of Amorosa Inn & Gardens B&B

NAMED ONE OF SAN JOAQUIN’S TOP TEN PLACES TO GET MARRIED!

wall street journal wine competition

VINOCONBRIO.COM

OAKFARMVINEYARDS.COM

Winery Directory Grands Amis Winery 115 N. School st. #5 Lodi, CA 95240 (209) 369-6805 grandsamis.com

Harmony Wynelands 9291 E. Harney Lane Lodi, CA 95240 (209)369-4184  harmonywynelands.com 

Warm and inviting aromas of fresh baked berry pie cooling in the kitchen will have

 

you gathering around the family table with a bottle (or three), good friends, and a deck of cards! Enjoy sipping on layers of sliced chocolate cake and cookie dough with a teasing, lingering drop of roasted coffee and vanilla on the finish. Wanna go another hand?

Gold Medal,

2010 SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMPETITION



Hours: Thurs-Sun 12PM-5PM

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

Van Ruiten Family 340 W. Highway 12 Lodi, CA 95242 (209) 334-5722 vanruitenwinery.com

Harney Lane Winery 9010 E. Harney Ln. Lodi, CA 95240 (209) 365-1900 harneylane.com

Oakfarm Vineyards 23627 N. De Vries Lodi, CA 95242 (209) 365-6566 oakfarmvineyards.com



Lodi Zinfandel 2007

9010 E. Harney Ln. Lodi, CA 95240 (209) 365-1900 harneylane.com

Micheal David Winery 4580 W. Highway 12 Lodi, CA 95242 (209) 368-7384 michaeldavidwinery.com

   Mokelumne Glen Vineyards    139 S. Guild Ave. #102  Lodi, CA 95240    (209) 369-5755   mokelumneglen.com       d’Art Wines    13299 N. Curry Ave  Lodi, CA 95240    (209) 334-9946   dartwines.com       Heritage Oak Winery    10112 E. Woodbridge Rd.  Acampo, CA 95220    (209) 986-2763   heritageoakwinery.com       Vino Con Brio    7889 East Harney Lane  Lodi, CA 95240    (209) 369-5392   vinoconbrio.com     

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Tracy Thai Tracy Thai successfully captures the unique and complex flavors Thai food is known for. Using only fresh, quality ingredients, their food has exceptional presentation, from mouth-watering appetizers like their heavenly Angel Wings (boneless chicken wings stuffed with silver noodles), to their soups served in a flaming tureen that keeps it warm throughout the meal. Tracy Thai prepares imaginative creations for those with more adventurous tastes, or delicious familiar dishes that are great choices for those who have never experienced Thai food before.

Santiago’s Cocina Mexicana is authentic as it gets, at this location in Stockton’s Lincoln Center for over 41 years. Brothers Samuel and Santiago Maciel took over the restaurant from their mother and father, but all the same authentic Mexican traditions are still the order of the day. Chef Jose Aguilar was taught all the recipes personally from Dad, and continues to send out excellent dishes from the kitchen, the likes of homemade tortillas, chile verde tomatillo, crisp salads, and homemade soups. Everything at Santiago’s is fresh and made on-site, daily. Happy hour is also a big hit on weekday afternoons, 3-6:30 p.m., with plenty of margaritas to choose from, and friends and neighbors from all over San Joaquin meeting up to enjoy.

1035 Central Ave. Tracy, (209) 833-9703

222 Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 478-6444

Serving authentic and modern Japanese cuisine, come enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the causal dining room, or grab a seat at the sushi bar and have some fun with the professional and creative sushi chef. To enhance your experience, Mikasa invites you to explore the list of premium sakes. Mikasa offers outstanding sushi, sashimi, tempura, noodles, and teriyaki, as well as traditional Japanese sukiyaki and yosenabe. The most popular dishes are the Hawaiian tuna poki, tako kimchee, hamachi jalapeno, tuna ceviche, Mikasa steam sole, ginger beef tenderloin, Golden Gate roll, and Mikasa roll. They’re looking forward to your visit! Kampei!

A favorite among guests that enjoy fine dining, Rosewood Bar and Grill offers an upbeat and sophisticated setting with its rich wood and black and white tile floor, while still remaining family friendly.

With an exceptional menu, Rosewood offers Monday night prix fixe (French for “fixed price”) dining specials, letting diners order a complete meal for about half the price of doing so a la carte.

Rosewood Bar and Grill also boasts a wine list that is out of this world.

15138 Harlan Rd., Lathrop (209) 858-1818 www.mikasasushilathrop.com

28 S. School St. Lodi, (209) 369-0470

30X108 in.

SHIRASONI

STEAKHOUSE ˆ TEPPANYAKI ˆ SUSHI BAR

Sitting around the immense copper beer vats in the middle of the dining room floor, beer connoisseurs with a taste for fine dining can enjoy the best of both worlds at Lodi Beer Co. Restaurant and Brewery, newly opened and located in downtown Lodi. With such house specialties as the deep-fried mac and cheese nuggets for starters, to the melt-in-your-mouth prime rib entrée cooked to perfection, this casual fine dining restaurant is the ideal choice for both lunch and dinner.

105 S. School St. Lodi, (209) 368-9931

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“YOURYou TABLE, OUR Your KITCHEN” Wishing and Family Shirasoni Japanese Restaurant is a a Very Merrytraditional Christmas & hibachi a Happy New Yea Japanese steakhouse.

The authentic cuisine at Shirasoni is prepared fresh and cooked in front of you at the teppanyaki tables, and served by a performing chef, in hot bite-size portions ready to dip into a variety of delicious Japanese sauces. Shirasoni also offers an excellent menu of sushi and sashimi.

Birthday eats free with a party 6 or more 3249 W. Hammer Lane Stockton, (209) 473-2525 6367 Lone Tree Way Brentwood, (925) 240-7808

MAY 2010

Our belief is that Mexican dishes done right are both wonderful and diverse.

Creating superb dishes from Cochinita Pibil to Tartare de Salmon; our food is inspired by the heart of Mexico. Our 100% natural margaritas made with true agave nectar and fresh squeezed lime can be enjoyed on our covered and heated outside patio. We’re holding to the authenticity of true Mexican dishes not found in this area, thus revolutionizing Mexican food.

Open Daily 10:45 a.m.-10 p.m.

Serving brunch on weekends - 9 a.m.

307 S. Lower Sacramento Road, Lodi (209) 334-1519 www.rev1910.com

714 Central Ave. Tracy, (209) 833-0862 www.thegreatplate.com www.theboardrock.com

Serving San Joaquin County since 1979

Angelina’s is a true family restaurant: owned by four family members, named after another, and welcoming to all of yours. For thirty-three years, their hearty homemade pastas, raviolis, and traditional sauces have been bringing families together just like a meal at Grandma’s house. Consider inviting all your relatives to dine together in Angelina’s comfortable and cozy banquet room the next time you are hosting a family get-together.

Angelina’s isn’t fussy—just simple, classic, and great tasting. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner.

7555 Pacific Ave., Ste. 115 Stockton, (209) 957-0617 www.pekingstockton.com

1563 E. Fremont St., Stockton (209) 948-6609 www.angelinas.com

We use ingredients of only the highest quality when preparing our meals. We cook using 100 percent cholesterol free cooking oils, for a delicious and healthy meal. If you would like to order something not listed in the menu, we will do our best to accomodate you in any way we can. Gift Certificates available.

Mon-Fri: 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m and 5-10 p.m. Sat-Sun: 12 p.m.- 10 p.m.

Papapavlo’s Bistro and Bar is considered by many to be one of Northern California’s most unique fine dining establishments, located in Stockton’s Lincoln Center. They offer the finest and freshest in gourmet cuisine, and their fabulous menu includes a large variety of continental dishes. Three outdoor dining patios make for a perfect place to relax during lunch or dinner. Papapavlo’s offers four private banquet rooms accommodating groups as intimate as 12, to as large as 100 guests. Papapavlo’s is open Sun.Thur., 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fri. and Sat., 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

501 N. Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 477-6133, www.papapavlos.com

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Looking for the best pizza in town? It’s here! The Great Plate has signature pizzas like Buffalo Chicken, or the Dominic, or build your own. Handmade to order and fired in the brick oven with always fresh dough for perfect crust and a delicious pizza. But that’s not all, excellent burgers, wings, salads, pastas, steaks, seafood, and more. Located downtown across from the Grand Theatre, come and enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere. Great Plate offers two full bars and 16 beers on tap, a fine wine list, and Sunday breakfast (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and the NFL Ticket. Or check out the exciting nightlife featuring live music and DJs on both floors. Visit, “Tracy’s Favorite Place to Play.” Banquet rooms available for up to 125 people.

S an J oa q u in dining g u ide

The Great Plate Bar and Grill

Welcome to Casa Flores Marina, the very best in Mexican Cuisine. Casa Flores Marina is the new location in the Marina Shopping Center on Benjamin Holt Avenue, just west of I-5 in Stockton. Enjoy the warm, inviting dining room or dine al fresco in the secluded, outdoor patio.

You will be treated to mouth-watering, innovative dishes that will keep you coming back! Casa Flores Marina has a beautiful, fully stocked tequila bar offering the finest selection of tequilas anywhere. You can enjoy fresh fruit margaritas made with all natural ingredients. No pre-made mixes here. Enjoy Tequila Tastings every third Thursday of the month or book your next big party here. Open for lunch and dinner.

3201 W. Ben Holt Dr., Ste. 155 Stockton, (209) 451-1116

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I Restaurant Guide

DiningOut compiled by ROBIN MEYER with additional reporting by Amanda Rife and Lindsey Ball

Tracy Thai

1035 Central Ave., Tracy, (209) 833-9703. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$ Tracy Thai successfully captures the unique and complex flavors Thai food is famous for. Using only fresh, quality ingredients, their food has artistic presentation and exceptional flavor, from mouthwatering appetizers like their heavenly Angel Wings (boneless chicken wings stuffed with silver noodles), to their soups served in a flaming tureen that keeps it warm throughout the meal. Tracy Thai prepares imaginative creations for those with adventurous tastes, and also familiar favorites for those who have never experienced Thai food before.

lathrop Mikasa Japanese Bistro 15138 Harlan Rd. (209) 858-1818.

Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$$

Serving authentic and modern Japanese cuisine, come enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of this casual dining room, or grab a seat at the sushi bar and have some fun with their professional and creative sushi chef. To enhance your experience, you’re invited to explore their list of premium sakes. Mikasa offers outstanding sushi, sashimi, tempura, noodles, and teriyaki, as well as traditional Japanese sukiyaki and yosenabe.

The most popular dishes are the Hawaiian tuna poki, tako kimchee, hamachi jalapeno, tuna ceviche, Mikasa steam sole, ginger beef tenderloin, Golden Gate roll, and Mikasa roll.

Kampei!

LOCKEFORD JOE’s of Italy 18700 N. Hwy 88, Lockeford (209) 727-5841. www.joesofitaly.com. Full bar.

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. $$

Joe’s of Italy’s cuisine is a well-known type of food available in the Central Valley for over 75 years. Their comfort Italian food has been refined to perfection and is a joy to experience and reasonably priced. Located in the middle of wine country, Joe’s has some of the most authentic Italian cuisine anywhere in this area. Try linguine and clams, stuffed raviolis, gnocchi, or canneloni—not to be missed.

lodi Habañero Hots 1024 Victor Rd., (209) 369-3791, www.habanerohots.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

OUR POLICY

These listings are provided as a free service by San Joaquin magazine for its readers. As such, inclusion is based on editorial consideration and is not guaranteed. If you would like your dining establishment to be considered for this listing, send information to jamie@ sanjoaquinmagazine.com, including your name, the name of the establishment, address, and contact information.

Pricing KeY (entree): $–under $10

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$$–under $17

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$$$–under $24

$$$$–over $24

Lodi Beer Company 105 S. School St., (209) 368-9931, www.lodibeercompany.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Whether you’re looking for a place to meet for your next business lunch, to grab a bite with friends or your kids after work, or to dine with a party of one hundred, the Lodi Beer Company welcomes you. The beautiful slate floors, iron

Lodi Feed and Fuel 27 W. Elm St., (209) 365-1043. Full bar. Open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. $$-$$$$

Come dressed up or down; Lodi Feed and Fuel welcomes all for a fun, fine dining experience. With classic and contemporary movie memorabilia adorning the restaurant’s walls (think John Wayne juxtaposed with Jack Sparrow), and its prime location across the street from the movie theater, this is a perfect choice for a dinner-and-a-movie date. Thursdays are great days to try out the bar—from 4 to 7 p.m. enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers and a live comedy show every other week. If you are in the mood for an adventurous drink, be sure to try the Grapefruit Cosmopolitan made from freshly squeezed grapefruit juice or the Wasabi Bloody Mary.

Moo Moo’s Burger Barn 113 N. School St., (209) 369-9450, www.moo-moos.com.

No alcohol served. Open for lunch and dinner. $

Playing off the name of the restaurant, Moo Moo’s is decorated with hand-painted murals of a large barn and open pastures, but the atmosphere is more reminiscent of a ‘50s diner than a drive through the countryside. Authentic burgers, shakes, onion rings, and fries are served in addition to less greasy sandwiches, salads, veggie burgers, and sweet potato fries.

This is a great place to come with small children for a fun, tasty, and affordable meal. Moo Moo’s ensures that, like happy cows, happy diners come from California.

Pietro’s Trattoria 317 E. Kettleman Lane, (209) 368-0613, www.pietroslodi.com. Beer and wine. Lunch and dinner. $$

Charmingly designed and warmly staffed, Pietro’s restaurant is a family-owned establishment that’s clearly well loved. Pietro’s serves up huge portions of traditional Italian fare, and the restaurant is designed to give the impression that diners are sitting in the middle of a tiny, rustic Italian village. Try the rich and garlicky penne aglio pasta with mushrooms, spinach, and crushed red peppers, the hearty individual pizzas, the chicken parmigiana, or the lemony veal piccata with capers. Familyfriendly, and banquets up to 125 people.

Revolucion 1910 307 S. Lower Sacramento Rd., Ste. D, Lodi, (209) 334-1519. Full bar. Lunch, dinner, and Sunday Brunch. www.rev1910.com $-$$.

Javier Del Castillo started a revolution, or rather Revolucion 1910, his authentic Mexican restaurant that has quickly become a local

MAY 2010

tracy Thai

Not only does this Mexican restaurant offer steaming fajitas and cheesy nachos, but they serve up hot peppers, too. Those willing to eat a habañero chili pepper can win their way into the Habañero Hots “Hall of Flame.” This is no bell pepper, either; the habañero is rated between 100,000 and 350,000 on the Scoville scale, developed to rank spiciness, compared to a mere 5,000 for a basic jalapeño. If you’re successful in the “Eat the Heat” contest, you are rewarded with a complimentary T-shirt and your photo on the wall. Hey, you can always wash it down with one of their one hundred seventy-five selections of tequila.

work, and copper accents create an inviting atmosphere, and with up to fourteen beers on tap and menu items ranging from deep fried macaroni and cheese to a twenty-two ounce rib eye steak to grilled mahi-mahi, everyone is sure to leave happy and full.

1110 Kettleman Lane Lodi, (209) 368-2272

1825 Pacific Ave., Ste. 2 Stockton, (209) 939-1825

We have an unlimited buffet with your choice of rice, beans, chile colorado, chile verde, taco, enchiladas, chile relleno, and carnitas. Also includes drinks, tortillas, chips, and salsa. Elena and Job Sanchez at Casa Mexicana are happy to cater to anything else that you are hoping to eat.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner all day Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat-Sun 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Casa Mexicana also own a bakery.

Family owned and operated since 2007, DeGrande’s offers a quiet, friendly Tuscanstyle atmosphere designed by LouAnn Edens-DeGrande. LouAnn selected the Tuscan colors and put her personality into the decor. Here at DeGrande’s we love homemade. Our soups are made here; our focaccia and biscotti - made right here. Our meats are slow-roasted here, the raviolis and the sauces are homemade as well. The sandwiches, salads and wraps: all fresh.

Let us cater your next family or corporate event!

Toot Sweets...

Is a from-scratch bakery/café with a friendly and inviting environment. Started in Berkeley in 1975 this successful family owned business has made its place in Stockton. Toot Sweets does not use mixes or any artificial ingredients.

From custom roasted coffees offered in a wide range of flavors to suit your taste. Gladly filling lunches and light dinners, Toot’s offers a variety of unique food and drink items suitable for any occasion. We also offer drop-off catering.

Gift certificates available!

2370 Maggio Circle #14 Lodi, (209) 365-6500

4755 Quail Lakes Dr., Ste. D Stockton, (209) 474-6692

Our menu offers a large selection of sandwiches made with Genova french rolls, wraps created on specialty tortillas, fresh salads, the delicious homemade soups, panini sandwiches on our homemade Focaccia bread, and old-world cioccolati amore and Italian rum cakes.

Everyone is welcome at Bud’s Seafood Grille, Friendly service, hearty portions, and a range of fish, seafood, pasta, steak and poultry entrees make Bud’s a great choice for a business lunch, family dinner, or night our for two. Every meal begins with a bottomless basket of fresh sourdough bread. The new leafy outdoor patio seats thirty, and is the perfect spot to take a break from shopping in Lincoln Center and enjoy a leisurely lunch or even just a drink with a friend or two. Full bar and banquet room available. Open for lunch, dinner and scrumptious Sunday brunch.

Happy hour daily with $1.00 Off all beer & well drinks and $5.00 bar bites 4pm - 6:30pm 314 Lincoln Ctr., Stockton (209) 956-0270 www.budsseafood.com

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Saturday nights at 9 p.m., Casa Mexicana hosts a nightclub with all varieties of music.

Bringing a new look and feel to Stockton, Centrale Kitchen and Bar will give you the feeling of an upscale bistro in any big city around the world, with its authentic brick walls and dark, walnut wood floors.

The menu features traditional American comfort food with a strong focus on fresh and unique ingredients. As with the dinner menu, the wine selection will change by season, and you will find many extraordinary bottles that you won’t find anywhere else in the region. With a full bar, Centrale is also bringing back the quality cocktail by using all fresh juices and house-made mixes. Centrale Kitchen and Bar is located on the “Miracle Mile” and is open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Outdoor dining available.

Joe’s of Italy’s cuisine is a well-known type of food available in the greater Bay Area for over 75 years. Their comfort Italian food has been refined to perfection and is a joy to experience and reasonably priced. Joe’s of Italy is in the middle of the San Joaquin Valley’s wine country, approximately 10 miles east of Stockton and Lodi on Hwy. 88 in Lockeford. Be sure to visit Joe’s of Italy, the one-stop food experience in the San Joaquin Valley’s wine country. Mon-Thurs, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Lunch and Dinner, full service bar.

Fri, Sat, Sun, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, and bar.

18700 N. Hwy 88, Lockeford (209) 727-5841, www.joesofitaly.com

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what’s in Season

Bing Cherry Lemonade 1 cup sugar 1 cup water 1 lb. fresh bing cherries, washed and pitted (about 2 cups) 1 cup fresh lemon juice 6 cups cold water Mint sprigs for garnish Heat sugar and 1 cup water in a small pot until sugar dissolves. Add 1 cup bing cherries, bring to a boil and boil until the cherries begin to soften, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Strain cooled bing cherry syrup into a large pitcher, pressing on the cherries to release their juice. Add lemon juice and cold water. Stir in remaining cherries. Pour over ice and garnish with fresh mint.

Makes 2 quarts.

TASTE OF THE SEASON

As Easy as “Bing” Cherry Pie Bottom Crust: 1 (9 inch) refrigerated pie crust

cherries

by Marcelina Blea

California is known for its Bing cherries, with a deep mahogany red color and a rich, full bodied flavor larger than its mini heart shape.

Cherries have a short growing season, with peak season during May and June. Memorial Day weekend is classic cherry-picking time, with some families making the outing a tradition. San Joaquin County is a prime location for cherry growing, with an abundance of sunshine and sweeping cool breezes. Local orchards spread out in the county from Stockton to Lodi.

U-pick farms are often spotted by their cherry stands. Take along a few cherry recipes to judge how much to pick. The fruit goes well on top of ice cream, splashed into a drink, or great in a pie. Cherries are also known to be a pain reliever, popular among runners.

The highly anticipated growing season may be short but cherries can be enjoyed year-round in canned and jar forms, such as the bright and round maraschino cherries, a common cherry choice for desserts.

The town of Linden kicks off the season with its annual Linden Cherry Festival, this year held Saturday May 15, complete with a cherry queen, parade, and cherry recipe bake-off. www.lindenchamber.net

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Crumb Topping: 1/2 cup regular rolled oats 1/4 cup white sugar 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour 1 Tbsp. butter, softened ½ tsp. ground cinnamon ½ tsp. salt Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Step 1: Crust. A wide selection of pre-made pie crusts is available in the refrigerator or frozen section of your local grocery store. Most will come in an oven-safe aluminum pie pan. (Note: It is a good idea to place the pan on a cookie sheet for stability while assembling, and then place in the oven.)

Step 2: Pit cherries. Fresh Bing cherries must be pitted for this recipe. Since you’ll need 5 cups, this step is the most time-consuming. You can find a wide array of devices for removing the pits from cherries online or at your local grocery store. Make sure to wear an apron in case you splatter juice. If you have young children around, they may enjoy helping to pit the cherries. More hands will make the job go much faster, but we recommend taking this activity outside.

Step 3: Filling. Combine the pitted cherries in a bowl with sugar and tapioca flour. Mix well and spoon into the prepared pie crust.

Step 4: Topping. Technically, a pie with a crumb topping is called a crisp. But those who eat this dish won’t care what it’s called. Simply combine the remaining ingredients—oats, sugar, flour, softened butter, cinnamon, and salt—into a small bowl and mix until evenly distributed and crumbly. Sprinkle over the top of the filling. Place in the oven and bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 325 degrees and bake for another 30 to 40 minutes until bubbly and browned on top. Allow to cool to room temperature. Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

MAY 2010

Ca Cherry Advisory Board; www.calcherry.com

Pie Filling: 5 cups fresh California Bing cherries, pitted 1 cup sugar 1 Tbsp. tapioca flour

1243 West March Lane, Stockton (209) 954-9615 www.outback.com

115 S. School St. (in Woolworth Place) Downtown Lodi, (209) 369-5400 www.crushkitchen.com

So let go of the worries of the day, and Go Outback.

This fantastic, family-run restaurant is a top choice in Stockton for savory Mexican fare. Miguel’s promises quality food; as a result, the kitchen doesn’t cook with animal fats and uses sirloin tip rather than ground beef. You’ll taste the difference in the carne asada, camarones rancheros, braised red snapper, fajitas, and steak a la chicana. Omelets and spicy egg dishes also draw raves, and combination plates offer good value and a selection of tastes.

7555 Pacific Ave., Ste. 5 Stockton, (209) 951-1931

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With its seasonally-based menu and gourmet preparation, the Wine and Roses restaurant boasts a charming venue with exceptional service. Guests are spoiled with beautiful views of the garden, or can enjoy a romantic evening sitting by the large fireplace.

Sit alongside the piano while enjoying an after dinner cocktail. As an added bonus, stay overnight at the charming and beautiful Wine and Roses Inn and make a weekend out of it.

S an J oa q u in dining g u ide

Open for lunch Mon-Fri at 11:30 a.m.

Dinner 7 days a week Happy hour 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. M-F

At newly opened Crush Kitchen and Bar, Executive Chef Michael Warren has created a menu that is California cuisine with heavy Mediterranean influences.

From hand-crafted raviolis and housemade mozzarella cheese to the 12 oz. Niman Ranch rib eye, quality and freshness is the focus at this upscale eatery. Crush also offers a full bar and a wine list that boasts 121 bottles of local and European selections. Crush offers a casual and warm atmosphere. Join Crush Sun, Mon, Tues, and Thursday from 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturdays 11:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m.

Closed on Wednesdays.

A flavorful mixed grill of juicy steaks, tender chicken, fresh fish, and pasta dishes.

Satisfy every taste with mouth-watering appetizers and salads. Every day, Outback starts out fresh, making every one of their soups, salad dressings, and sauces from scratch. At Outback, it’s all about quality —and all about the food.

2505 W. Turner Rd. Lodi, (209) 334-6988

Voted San Joaquin’s Best Family Restaurant, the Creamery is a classic American grill that has been a Stockton landmark since 1985. Even with a fresh, new look that is more spacious and modern, this dining favorite still offers the same cozy feel as when it first opened more than two decades ago. Enjoy gourmet sandwiches, huge hamburgers, garden fresh salads, pasta dishes, homestyle dinners, and an impressive dessert selection seven days a week. Whether you are in the neighborhood or just hungry for great food, The Creamery Restaurant will be sure to please. NOW SERVING BREAKFAST ON THE WEEKEND.

Charmingly designed and warmly staffed, Pietro’s restaurant is a familyowned establishment that’s clearly wellloved. Pietro’s serves up huge portions of traditional Italian fare, and has been carefully decorated to give diners the impression that they are sitting in the middle of a tiny, rustic Italian village. Try the rich and garlicky Penne Aglio, an overflowing bowl of penne pasta tossed with tender chunks of sautéed chicken, caramelized mushrooms, spinach, and crushed red peppers. Individual pizzas are hearty and cheesy. Pietro’s is a friendly family establishment. Banquets up to 125 people.

5756 Pacific Ave. Located in Robinhood Plaza, Stockton (209) 952-1111

317 E. Kettleman Lane, Lodi (209) 368-0613 www.pietroslodi.com

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I Restaurant Guide favorite. Using fresh ingredients and only serving entrees that originated in Mexico, patrons will find a menu full of small plate entrees designed to bring out the best of authentic Mexican flavor. The corn tortillas are all homemade, as are the sauces and vinaigrettes which made to fit each entree. Chili peppers are used in most dishes for their flavor rather than spice, in inventive entrees such as tacos al pastor or chile relleno con huitlacoche and Mexican oaxaca cheese. Be sure to try the tres leches cake for dessert, and margaritas made from only the highest quality tequilas from agave nectar, and lime juice squeezed fresh for each drink.

Rosewood Bar and Grill 28 S. School St., (209) 369-0470, www.rosewoodbarandgrill.com.

Full bar. Open for dinner. $$-$$$

[ Foodie Education ]

HOW TO START A VEGETABLE GARDEN It’s not easy being green…or is it? Whether you’re a seasoned grower or a late bloomer who just recently discovered the produce section at the market, starting a vegetable garden is easy. Horticulturist Michael Toscano, who teaches the subject at Stockton’s Delta College, offers two basic ways to begin—by using a container, or the ground you’ve got (both will work).

“Vegetables come in two basic groups, winter and summer,” Toscano explains. “If it’s your first time gardening, start small; grow a few heads of lettuce or one tomato. Balance the amount of crop only with what you can use.”

Fill pots and containers with a good potting soil, and if using a yard for planting, amend the area and build a raised bed if necessary. Once you’ve prepared a proper area, plant seeds, water them as needed, and watch your veggie garden grow. Plant seedlings for the following vegetables this spring and set your table with bountiful greens all summer long.

Cucumbers: Proper drainage of this decorative summer mainstay will produce a robust accompaniment to a variety of sides.

Peppers: Frost-adverse peppers add pops of color to festive tables and refreshing crispness to summer salads.

Tomatoes: Summer’s most popular veggie complements practically every dish, from grilled hamburgers to fresh Bruschetta with fresh basil and grated parmesan.

Squash: Besides being exceptionally easy-to-grow, squash can be prepared multiple ways, all of which are delicious. A little olive oil and a dash of salt and pepper is all you need.

Herbs: A variety of aromatic plants add zing to summer dishes and make for a deliciously fragrant kitchen. —Jenn Thornton

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A favorite among guests that enjoy fine dining, Rosewood Bar and Grill is an upbeat and sophisticated setting with its rich wood and black and white tile floor, yet it remains family friendly. With an exceptional menu, Rosewood offers Monday night prix fixe—French for “fixed price”—dining specials, letting patrons order a complete meal for about half the price of a la carte. Rosewood Bar and Grill also boasts a wine list that is out of this world.

School Street Bistro 116 N. School St., (209) 333-3950, www.schoolstbistro.com. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

At this quaint European-style bistro, everything is made from scratch daily, as well as all of the sauces and salad dressings accompanying their regional American cuisine. Specialties include upscale comfort foods like bacon wrapped meatloaf and smoked gouda macaroni and cheese, in addition to delicious steaks and fresh seafood. The bistro features domestic and imported beers and an extensive wine list of over one hundred local and imported wines.

This is a popular destination for both casual dining and the occasional wine tasting events hosted by the restaurant, so reservations are highly recommended.

Strings Italian Café 2314 W. Kettleman Ln., (209) 369-6400, www.stringscafe.com.

Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

First impressions can be deceiving, as is the case with Strings Café. The modest location (nestled in the Wal-Mart shopping center) doesn’t do its flawless reputation justice. You have to stop in, if only to taste the soft Parmesan bread and the salad, which is really quite memorable— crisp lettuce sprinkled with savory croutons, sunflower seeds, raisins, and a dressing that pulls the whole dish together. Thinking about stopping after the salad? Not a chance. Try the lasagna, which is superb, or any of the seafood dishes, all of which are surprisingly fresh and flavorful.

Wine and Roses 2505 W. Turner Rd., (209) 334-6988, www.winerose.com.

Full bar. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. $$$-$$$$

With its seasonally-based menu and gourmet preparation, the Wine and Roses restaurant boasts a charming venue with exceptional service. The kitchen uses fresh, local ingredients to create tantalizing examples of California cuisine. Guests are spoiled with beautiful views of the garden, or a romantic evening dining by the large fireplace. Sit alongside the piano while enjoying an after dinner cocktail and, as an additional bonus, stay overnight at the charming and beautiful Wine and Roses Inn and make a weekend out of it.

manteca De Vega Brothers 515 N. Main St., (209) 823-0947, www.devegabrothers.com.

Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$$$

De Vega Brothers has risen from its humble beginnings in a converted A&W stand in Manteca to one of the Valley’s premier Italian restaurants, with expanded locations in both Manteca and Stockton. The Manteca site boasts hand-painted murals of Roman ruins and rustic Italian vistas, while Stockton prides itself on creating an atmosphere of urban elegance with patio dining and live piano music. Both restaurants are known for their generous portions and delicious lamb chops, cioppino, chicken and veal scaloppini, steak, and seafood, as well as their gourmet pastas and sauces.

Finley’s Bar and Grill 10477 S. Airport Way, (209) 983-9493. Full bar.

Open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch during the winter season. $$-$$$$

Finley’s is full of pleasant surprises, the first being the truly romantic restaurant that lies within this nondescript building. While soft candlelight flickers at the center of your elegantly set table, you can relax and share a bottle of locally-made wine and, if you’re brave enough, kick off your dinner by sharing an appetizer of sautéed or deep-fried frog legs.

This succulent dish is sweeter tasting than chicken, and quite appetizing. After indulging your adventurous side, spring into dinner with the savory house specialty, smoked prime rib.

Feeling romantic enough to propose? Finley’s also caters small, intimate weddings in their spacious garden.

Isadore’s Restaurant 680 N. Main St., (209) 825-4300, www.isadores.com. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$$-$$$$

Isadore’s is anything but humble: the kitchen is out-of-this-world, and they know it. In fact, if you happen to inquire, they’ll gladly tell you which items on the menu you’re sure to fall

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in love with. Locals swear by the quality of the seafood and madeto-order pasta selections. Though there’s no official children’s menu, the kitchen will gladly whip up a pint-sized meal for your munchkins, as well as accommodate any other special requests. Finally, don’t be shy—order the Sex in a Pan for dessert. Sweet, ripe banana slices and rich chocolate pudding on a crumbly cookie crust topped with real whipped cream and chocolate sauce make for a climactic end to any meal.

Kelley Brothers Brewing Company 112 E. Yosemite Ave., (209) 825-1727.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

This Manteca hot spot rose up out of the ashes of the El Rey Theatre, which ironically burned down after its final showing of The Towering Inferno. Big, bulky sandwiches, like the Southwest-style BBQ Pork Masterpiece make this a great lunch destination, but live music Friday and Saturday nights and the largest bar in the Valley (complete with twelve house-made beers on tap) draw crowds at dinnertime and in the later hours, too. The whole family will enjoy the food as much as the fun murals and collections of local antiques on display.

stockton 856 Restaurant & Lounge 856 Benjamin Holt Dr., (209) 957-7856, www.856856.com.

Full bar. Open for dinner. $$-$$$

Boasting one of the prettiest bars around, 856 is as comfortable as it is trendy. With over sixteen different martinis on the menu, all served to perfection, 856 hosts a “Martini Mood Hour” Monday through Friday, and prepares after-hours appetizers for those stopping by after a late night on the town. The menu is built upon lots of local produce, and their fish is trucked in each morning fresh from the docks of San Francisco. Enjoy delicious food, friendly service, and a beautiful full-service lounge. There’s always something happening at this unique place to dine. Check out their calendar of events for the live music schedule, early Supper Club hours, and more.

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Angelina’s Spaghetti House 1563 E. Fremont St., (209) 948-6609, www.angelinas.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Angelina’s is a true family restaurant: owned by four family members, named after another, and welcoming to all of yours. For thirty-one years, their hearty homemade pastas, raviolis, and traditional sauces have been bringing families together just like a meal at Grandma’s house.

Consider inviting all your relatives to dine together in Angelina’s comfortable and cozy banquet room the next time you are hosting a family get-together. Angelina’s isn’t fussy— just simple, classic, and great tasting.

Arroyo’s Café 2381 W. March Ln., (209) 472-1661, www.arroyoscafe.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $

When Guadalupe and Jesus Arroyo moved here in the early 1940s, they immediately began sharing their passion for food with friends and family by opening their first restaurant. Sixty years later, their son Mario continues the tradition and commitment to excellence at Arroyo’s Café. Located on the water, one can enjoy fresh, homemade tortillas, enchiladas, carne asada, and other Mexican favorites. Friday and Saturday nights the restaurant hosts live Mariachi music, and the bar hosts Happy Hour from 4 to 7 p.m.

Monday through Friday.

Breadfruit Tree Restaurant 8095 Rio Blanco Rd., (209) 952-7361, www.breadfruittree.com. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

In the mood for something different?

Relax on the Delta and enjoy the flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean Islands at the Breadfruit Tree. The restaurant serves food from many of the tropical islands, and prides itself on its Peleau—a rice stirfry with fresh veggies and seafood, seasoned with a myriad of delightful spices. Complete your meal with a Jamaican beer or house-made, Caribbean-style drink. While eating, admire the hand-painted murals depicting waterfalls and island life.

The owners proudly claim, “As they say in the Caribbean, ‘we cook food with love.’” The Breadfruit Tree is open for catering year-round and restaurant dining from February to November.

Bud’s Seafood Grille 314 Lincoln Center, (209) 956-0270, www.budsseafood.com. Full bar.

Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Everyone is welcome at Bud’s Seafood Grille. Friendly service, hearty portions, and a range of fish, seafood, pasta, steak, and poultry entrees make Bud’s a great choice for a business lunch, family dinner, or night out for two. Every meal begins with a bottomless basket of fresh sourdough bread, so be careful not to fill up before the rest arrives. The new leafy outdoor patio seats thirty, and is the perfect spot to take a break from shopping in Lincoln Center and enjoy a leisurely lunch or even just a drink with a friend.

CEntrale Kitchen and bar 1825 Pacific Ave., Ste. 2 (209) 939-1825. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Bringing a new look and feel to Stockton, Centrale Kitchen and Bar will give you the feeling of an upscale bistro in any big city around the world, with its authentic brick walls and dark, walnut wood floors. The menu features traditional American comfort food with a strong focus on fresh and unique ingredients. As with the dinner menu, the wine selection will change by season, and you will find many extraordinary bottles that you won’t find anywhere else in the region. With a full bar, Centrale is also bringing back the quality cocktail by using all fresh juices and house-made mixes. Centrale Kitchen and Bar is located on the south end of the Miracle Mile. Outdoor dining available.

Chitiva’s Salsa and Sports Bar and Grill 445 W. Weber Ave., (209) 941-8605, www.chitiva.net.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

Chitiva’s serves up authentic Mexican food, tasty tropical drinks, and a giant side of fun six nights a week.

Saturday nights after 9 p.m., the fajitas and enchiladas play second fiddle to the DJs and live bands on center stage—the Salsa is still hot, but now it’s a dance, not a culinary dip. If all this has you craving a cool Delta breeze, look no further than the restaurant’s outdoor dining overlooking the water or one of their popular Salsa cruises (summer months through October). So go find your dancing shoes, sip a cool mojito, and have some fun.

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Where affordability meets comfort!

FOOD&WINE

I Restaurant Guide

Cocoro Japanese Bistro 2105 Pacific Ave., (209) 941-6053. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Why overpay for a great stay?

Experience the clean, comfortable style of Red Roof-Stockton.

More than you’d ever expect from an economy hotel: • FREE Wi-Fi and coffee bar • Waterfront rooms • Outdoor pool • Award-winning bedding • Rated top 2 in Overall Customer Satisfaction for the past 5 years, J.D. Power, economy hotels

Red Roof-Stockton – #689 1707 West Fremont Street Stockton, CA 95203 209.466.7777 For reservations visit redroof.com or call 800.RED.ROOF (800.733.7663)

Cocoro is the “it” place to go for sushi in Stockton. Its streamlined, contemporary Japanese décor and intimate seating arrangements give it a sophisticated atmosphere, and its artful sushi creations made with fish delivered fresh daily from the Bay Area keep patrons coming back for more. At the sushi counter, you can watch talented chefs roll and wrap beautiful bites right before your eyes.

The restaurant’s signature sushi—the Coco Roll—consists of a tempura prawn wrapped up with avocado and topped with eel, spicy tuna, teriyaki sauce, and special house dressing, all garnished with a walnut. For the less adventurous eater, Cocoro offers the traditional range of tempura, teriyaki, and noodle dishes.

The Creamery 5756 Pacific Ave., Robinhood Plaza (209) 925-1111.

No alcohol served. Open for breakfast (on weekends), lunch, and dinner. $-$$

The Creamery Restaurant is a classic American grill that has been a Stockton landmark since 1985. Great for large parties or a family meal, it is also the perfect spot for hungry shoppers. Enjoy gourmet sandwiches, huge hamburgers, garden fresh salads, pasta dishes, homestyle dinners, and an amazing dessert selection seven days a week, with breakfast served on the weekends. Whether you’re in the neighborhood or just hungry for great food, The Creamery Restaurant will be sure to please.

Dante’s CaliforniaStyle Pizza 9305 Thornton Rd., (209) 474-0221. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

Nestled in the Thornton Plaza shopping center, Dante’s puts a sunny California spin on the standard pepperoni and cheese creation. In fact, most of their pizzas don’t even come with pepperoni or mozzarella.

The name of the restaurant says it all—this is not your authentic Italian pizzeria, so be prepared for specialty pizzas with experimental combinations of unique and exotic toppings. Dante’s offers fourteen different pizzas made with fresh meats and produce, gourmet cheeses, and colorful sauces (the pesto is fantastic).

Like pizza joint worth their sauce, take-out and delivery options are also available.

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Dave Wong’s Chinese Cuisine 2828 W. March Ln., (209) 951-4152. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

You may already have a favorite Chinese restaurant—everybody does—but if you are in the mood to venture away from habit, hit Dave Wong’s. This longtime Stockton favorite serves up a pleasant combination of Chinese, Cantonese, and Szechwan eats. The broccoli beef, lemon chicken, and fried rice are hands-down favorites. The menu has many traditional dishes, alongside appetizing treats like wok-charred green beans. The muted walls and intimate (yet expandable) quiet candlelit dining chambers reiterate the fact that Dave Wong’s is not your typical Chinese restaurant.

David’s New York Style Pizza 1744 W. Hammer Lane, (209) 477-2677 900 W. Benjamin Holt Dr., (209) 957-2850. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

Toppings, cheese, and dough that’s prepared fresh daily may be three of the reasons this Stockton staple has had such success that they’ve recently opened a second location in Lincoln Center. Or maybe it’s all the choices at David’s New York Style Pizza that make it so popular: Eat in or take out?

Hammer Lane or Lincoln Center?

Thick, thin, or standard crust?

Indoors or out on the patio? One of David’s twelve specialty pizzas or one of your own creations? We know sports-lovers love the pizzeria because it combines some of their favorite things: great pizza, beer, fellow fans, and the big game televised on the many 46-inch flat screen televisions hung in both locations. Whatever their reasoning for coming back, repeat customers can be found enjoying David’s New York Style Pizza seven days a week.

De Vega Brothers 2819 W. March Lane, Ste. A1, (209) 957-3839, www.devegabrothers. com. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$$$

De Vega Brothers has risen from its humble beginnings in a converted A&W stand in Manteca to one of the Valley’s premier Italian restaurants, with expanded locations in both Manteca and Stockton. The Manteca site boasts hand-painted murals of Roman ruins and rustic Italian vistas, while Stockton prides itself on creating an atmosphere of urban elegance with patio dining and live piano music. Both restaurants are

known for their generous portions and delicious lamb chops, cioppino, chicken and veal scaloppini, steak, and seafood, as well as their gourmet pastas and sauces.

De Vinci’s 4555 N. Pershing Ave., (209) 957-2750.

No alcohol served. Open for lunch and dinner. $

Old-world Italian eats rule here, where the foccacia and ravioli are homemade. Red and white checkered tablecloths and an Italian-inspired mural lend distinct charm to this half deli, half restaurant which serves up spectacular sandwiches, rice torta, and pesto. The food may be delicious, but don’t bring a hungry crowd and expect to find a table big enough—this place is best for takeout and catering. Instead, grab a bag of goodies to go and head over to nearby Victoria Park for a picnic with panache. A downtown Tracy location was recently opened.

Delights Waterfront Coffee Bar and Deli 445 W. Weber Ave., Ste. 126, (209) 462-3401. Beer and Wine. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. $

Delights Waterfront Coffee Bar and Deli is appropriately named, serving up some of the best casual favorites this side of the Delta. With its premium coffee bar, morning starters, salads made to order with the freshest local produce, and the popular tri-tip sandwich that’s grilled daily on the patio, you can’t escape the quiet, peaceful nostalgia that Delights has to offer. Located right on the water in the historic Waterfront Warehouse building, Delights is a visual treat. While they don’t accept reservations, you’ll soon find that it’s not necessary. This restaurant is a relaxed hangout for anybody, from businessmen to students from local colleges and schools.

El Rancho Inn Steak and Lobster House 1457 E. Mariposa Rd., (209) 467-1529. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$$-$$$$

Celebrating seventy years in business, El Rancho Inn has been charming customers with its superior service and delectable dishes. Although most drive by without giving this establishment a second glance, it’s well worth your time to stop in for a meal. The steak, lobster, and homemade soups are excellent, but be sure to look up from your plate and take in the surroundings. From the cattle brands on the walls to the regulars relaxing at their favorite

MAY 2010

it’s time to

tables, this country inn is sure to bring a smile to your face as well as warmth to your belly.

feel better...

Ernie’s on the Brick Walk

Fleet Feet sports is your headquarters for all your running, walking & fitness needs

296 Lincoln Center, (209) 951-3311. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Ernie’s has been incorporating classic French technique with abundant Central Valley produce since its doors opened in 1990. Chef and owner Warren Ito was trained at the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco and loves to use his skills to prepare fresh takes on “old classics” for his loyal patrons. The menu ranges from rib eye steak to Australian lamb chops to seasonal fish and pasta dishes to house specialties like the nutty grilled tahini prawns and made-to-order fresh Manila clam chowder. Take your time while perusing the extensive wine list—it’s over one hundred fifty wines long.

Thank you for voting us the BEST for two years running!

we know running and walking.

6541 Pacific Ave. Stockton 95207 209.952.1446 www.fleetfeetstockton.com

Garlic Brothers 6629 Embarcadero Dr., (209) 474-6585, www.garlic-brothers.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Tr e a t yo u r M o m “ H AV E N ” l y

Ironically, Garlic Brothers is a spectacular spot for a date, even though the kitchen is known to go heavy on the—you guessed it—garlic. Fun and lively, this restaurant sits right on the water’s edge and boasts delicious garlicky pizzas, pastas, and seafood. Contrary to popular belief, however, anything on the menu can be whipped up without the brothers’ favorite ingredient. Before you leave, roll up your sleeves and dig into a serving of Justy’s Cake—vanilla ice cream on a cookie crust topped with toffee and glazed with caramel and chocolate.

Le Bistro

This award-winning restaurant is Stockton’s only four-star dining experience. Whether eating lunch or dinner, Le Bistro offers a menu of French Continental cuisine beautifully presented in a stylish and sophisticated setting. This is a luxurious affair, where servers wear tuxedos and the everevolving wine list is like no other. The quiet elegance extends to the outdoor patio as well as four banquet rooms that can accommodate up to two hundred guests. If you are in the mood for an upscale treat, this is the place to go. Check the website for current information about live bands playing in the restaurant’s show room this fall.

MICHAEL’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA 2300 W Alpine Ave # A, (209) 462-6668 Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. $-$$

Once simply one of the best pizza joints in Stockton, Michael’s has grown to add a café, deli and now a full breakfast menu. The pizzas (13 combinations or make your own) draw you in but choices for everyone keep the community coming back as a whole. Michael’s also boasts a party room for up to 40 guests and has long been a favorite for sports teams and birthday parties. Dive into a hearty meat pizza or give Michael’s newest creation, the whole wheat crust a try.

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

2110 Pacific Avenue Stockton, CA

209.467.3669

o n h e r s p e c i a l d ay !

Sparkles Delight

MISS

3121 W. Benjamin Holt Dr., (209) 951-0885, www.lebistrostockton.com. Full bar. Open for dinner. $$$$

www.sparklesdelight.com

209.835.8383 Action Packed Show!

Balloon Creations Face Painting Magic • Bubbles Juggling • Puppets

Sparkles the Clown

is available 7 days a week for all occasions

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FOOD&WINE

I

RESTAURANT GUIDE

Papapavlo’s Bistro and Bar 501 N. Lincoln Center, (209) 477-6133, www.papapavlos. com. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Papapavlo’s Bistro and Bar is considered by many to be one of Northern California’s most unique fine dining establishments located in Stockton’s Lincoln Center. They offer you the finest and freshest in gourmet cuisine and their fabulous menu includes a large variety of continental dishes. The main dining room has a unique design with a showcase kitchen and bar in warm, classy decor. You’ll find the three outdoor dining patios a perfect place to relax during lunch or dinner. Papapavlo’s offers four private banquet rooms accommodating groups as intimate as 12 to as large as 100 guests.

Papapavlo’s also specializes in off-premises dining with their outstanding catering services.

Papapavlo’s is open SundayThursday 11am to 9pm, Friday and Saturday 11am to 10pm.

Paragary’s Bar and Grill 110 El Dorado St., (209) 943-1110 www.paragarys.com Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Located at the downtown Stockton Waterfront area, Paragary’s Bar and Grill is a destination in itself. The menu is full of simple American fare with all the right ingredients taken straight from our own Central Valley. The contemporary eatery also features a classic kids menu and surprisingly inexpensive happy hour specials in addition to their lunch, dinner, and dessert offerings. The Stockton location is part of the Sacramento-based Paragary Restaurant Group, but with tasty offerings like these, we don’t mind sharing.

The Shadow Oaks Steakhouse 7555 Pacific Ave. (209) 477-5547. Full bar. Open for dinner. $$-$$$$

If you’re looking for a place that knows it’s steak, Shadow Oaks is the spot. Known for its Kobe beef and Porter House steaks, the Prime Rib, lamb, and veal aren’t the only thing made to perfection at this local restaurant. With pasta, seafood, and salads on the menu as well you’re bound to find something to fall in love with. An incredible selection of wine awaits you at Shadow Oaks, with bottles priced anywhere from $25 to $450.

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And did we mention the tequila list? Hidden within the full bar is a variety of tequila bottles, whose respective shots range from $6 a shot to $85. With it’s sophisticated interior, beautiful bar, and live music on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, this casual restaurant offers fine dining without the pomp and circumstance.

Stockton Joe’s 236 Lincoln Center, (209) 951-2980, www.stocktonjoes. com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Featuring San Franciscan, Italian, and American continental cuisine, this is the place to go for a delicious meal in a casual and relaxed atmosphere. Entrees include charbroiled steaks, fresh seafood, and veal, chicken, and pasta dishes, and have recently extended to offer several heart-healthy options.

Stockton Joe’s frequently plays host to a variety of musicians and local artists who entertain diners relaxing in the restaurant’s comfy, padded booths and chairs.

Each month, the kitchen selects a featured wine from a local winery, and wine tasting events and wine dinners are held throughout the month. With exhibition cooking, a banquet hall that can seat up to sixty people, and catering for all occasions, Stockton Joe’s is a local feature not to be missed.

Valley Brewing Company 157 W. Adams St. (209) 464-2739, www.valleybrew.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch, dinner, and weekend breakfast. $-$$

The Valley Brewing Company is a fun place to bring the whole family for dinner: homemade beers, classic pub fare, live bands during the summer, and unique sports memorabilia keep everybody happy.

The Brewing Company keeps fourteen beers on tap at all times, from a pale wheat, to an IPA, to the house favorite Black Cat Stout, and apricot and berry fruit beers. Friday is fish night, and Saturday is all about Prime Rib. Beer and scotch tasting events are held throughout the month; check the website for up to the minute information about when the fun’s happening.

Waterloo

Carmen’s Casa Nachos

10447 E. Waterloo Rd., (209) 931-4019 www.thewaterloo.com. Full bar.

Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

350 W. Grant Line Rd. (209) 8359402. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

At this fun aussie-inspired restaurant, they really know how to mix it up on the barbee. One of their signature dishes is the savory barbecued ribs, served as an appetizer or an entrée. The ribs, which are best paired with Bette’s world-famous pesto, are tender to the point of melting away in your mouth. It is likely visitors will find this restaurant bustling when they visit, so during peak hours, be prepared for a lengthy wait.

If that doesn’t suit you, they also offer their entire menu for takeout orders, and they even offer catering.

Yasoo Yani 326 E. Main St., (209) 464-3108. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

This downtown restaurant, open since 1975, is a classic eatery where the food is as eclectic as the diners.

Mothers with their toddlers settle in next to prominent businessmen in ties for everything from a sturdy American burger to Greek souvlaki. Don’t be intimidated by the Greek side of the menu or the local luminaries—souvlaki is simply the Grecian version of shish kebab, served on pita bread, and at Yasoo Yani, everyone gets the same fine family service. Don’t even get us started on the honey-drenched baklava for dessert.

Want to spice up a dull week? A trip to Carmen’s Casa Nachos family Mexican restaurant should do the trick. Try Carmen’s fantastic fajitas and their specialty salsa seven days a week for lunch and dinner, where they make all of their food fresh everyday. Outdoor dining and a children’s menu are available to accommodate the whole family, while their catering and banquet menus take care of all your special occasion needs. Turn up the heat at Carmen’s Casa Nachos, where it’s Siempre Caliente!

Magellan’s 15 E. 6th St., (209) 839-2333, www.magellansworldcuisine.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$$-$$$$

Magellan’s Restaurant, named after owner and Executive Chef Thomas Magellan, is much like the small, intimate restaurants found in San Francisco. Featuring American Continental cuisine, the menu choices range from duck salad to their salmon burger to the ever popular, delectable filet mignon.

The menu changes seasonally and the high level of noise found in some restaurants is not to be found here. If you are looking for a good traditional meal with peaceful ambiance, seafood specials, and a martini bar to put others to shame, then Magellan’s is the place.

Thai Café

tracy

614 Central Ave., (209) 832-3800.

Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

Amore’s

More practical than fussy, Thai Café is the place to go when the craving for good Thai food, fast, strikes. This little place manages to stay afloat despite some stiff competition from surrounding restaurants, perhaps in part to a large following of loyal customers.

Regulars rave about the Thai Chicken Salad and Salad Kai, but if you are in the mood for something a little heavier, go ahead and try the Koa Paad—deep-fried rice served with your choice of meats. The colorful Thai decorations set the mood for a fun and flavorful meal where everyone is welcome.

130 W. 11th St., (209) 835-9566. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Anything but bland—that’s Amore’s. The building that houses this eatery is historic and rustic, which, when combined with the fun decorations and local antiques inside, creates a sense of smalltown charm echoed by the friendly service and traditional Italian dishes. Rigatoni with herb chicken is a house specialty that everybody loves, but the Mediterranean garlic shrimp is a close second. Take your time looking over the menu; it also features a selection of fantastic steaks, pizzas, and salads. Check out the specials offered at the weekly Family Night and Monday Night Football Sports Night celebrations.

Tracy Thai 1035 Central Ave., (209) 833-9703.

Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

Thai food is famous for. Using only fresh, quality ingredients, their food has artistic presentation and exceptional flavor, from mouthwatering appetizers like their heavenly Angel Wings (boneless chicken wings stuffed with silver noodles), to their soups served in a flaming tureen that keeps it warm throughout the meal. Tracy Thai prepares imaginative creations for those with adventurous tastes, and also familiar favorites for those who have never experienced Thai food before.

The Great Plate 714 Central Ave., (209) 833-0862, www.thegreatplate.com. Full bar.

Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Looking for the best pizza in town? It’s here! The Great Plate has signature pizzas like Buffalo Chicken, or the Dominic, or build your own. Handmade to order and fired in the brick oven with always fresh dough for perfect crust and a delicious pizza. But that’s not all, excellent burgers, wings, salads, pastas, steaks, seafood, and more.

Located downtown across from the Grand Theatre, come and enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere.

Great Plate offers two full bars and 16 beers on tap, a fine wine list, and Sunday breakfast (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and the NFL Ticket. Or check out the exciting nightlife featuring live music and DJs on both floors. Visit, “Tracy’s Favorite Place to Play.” Banquet rooms available for up to 125 people.

WOODBRIDGE Woodbridge Crossing 18939 N. Lower Sacramento Rd. (209) 366-1800, www. woodbridgecrossing.net. Full bar.

Open for dinner, Sunday Brunch. $-$$

Housed in one of the oldest brick buildings in the San Joaquin Valley, this historic restaurant, formerly Woodbridge Feed and Fuel, provides fine dining in the midst of antiques, Western artwork, and memorabilia. Known for their prime rib and steak, this restaurant strives for great customer service.

Woodbridge Crossing diners are treated to live entertainment and dancing on the weekends, and the restaurant also offers private banquet facilities where guests sit in unique old boxcars. [SJM]

Tracy Thai successfully captures the unique and complex flavors

MAY 2010

Paintings • Prints • Photography • Art Glass Ceramics • Sculpture • Jewelry • Cards

www.tidewaterartgallery.org Monday-Friday 10am-5pm

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OUT&ABOUT

I PLAYERS, PARTIES & PREMIERES

Pacific Pamela Eibeck Installation 1. Karen and Donald V. DeRosa (former Univerity of the Pacific President) 2. Stanford University President John Hennessy and Pacific President Pamela A. Eibeck 3. Stockton Mayor Ann Johnston and Pacific Regent and NASA Astronaut Jose Hernandez 4. Ted Leland, Pacific’s Vice President for External Relations, John Hennessy, Stanford University President, Horace Mitchell, President, California State University, Bakersfield 5. Dr. Sig Abelson, Judge Connie Callahan, Dr. Ron Redmond, all Regents

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Pairing Perfection

Student chefs from the Art Institute of California Sacramento partnered up with Lodi wineries March 13 at Lodi’s Wine and Roses, where the top four chefs received culinary scholarships.

1. Christine Machado, Jen Gaither, Jamie Clark 2. Nicholas Hatten, Joyce Weber 3. Stuart Spencer, Kevin Huston 4. Fidel Carrillo, Shelly Woltkamp, Ruth Davis, Bobby Hickey 5. Dominique and Petra Gillier

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MAY 2010

This page: Matthew james; Opposite page: [top] Brenda Hartshorn; [bottom] Matthew james This page (Top to Bottom): san joaquin magazine; Matthew james. Opposite page: Courtesy St. Joseph’s

March 19, University of the Pacific held an installation ceremony followed by an inauguration luncheon for their twenty-fourth president, Pamela A. Eibeck.

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St. Josephs Patient Pavilion Opening St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Stockton commemorated the opening of their new patient pavilion March 19 on Maple Street with a celebration and tours.

1. Don Wiley, St. Joseph’s President and CEO 2. Bob and Donna Hoffman, Robert and Janet Kavanaugh 3. David Jensen, MD, and James Acosta 4. Natalie Pettis, Sherry Leonard, Michael Leonard, and Justin Massiro 5. Alisa Kamigaki, Mas Kamigaki, MD, and Florence Kamigaki 6. Ron Kepner, Austin Spring, Terry Spring, Mike Ricks, Teri Spring, and Frank Crua

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OUT&ABOUT

I PLAYERS, PARTIES & PREMIERES

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Delta College Scholarship Dinner

The Delta College Culinary Program’s annual Scholarship Dinner took place March 14 at Stockton Golf and Country Club to raise over $10,000 in scholarship funds for students.

1. Jim and Hazel Hill 2. Robert Halabicky, Mark Berkner 3. Irie Gengler, Bret Bohlman 4. The Delta College Jazz Band: Mike Quigg, Giulio Cetto, Rafael Luna, Chris Catalina, and Mike Rocha

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Tracy Boys and Girls Club Gala

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This lively event March 13 at the Tracy Grand Theatre included performance artist David Garabaldi, a moving feast, and a silent auction, all to benefit the Tracy organization.

1. Frances Mizuno and Debbie Elliott 2. Tammy and Jeff Hushaw 3. Kelly Wilson and Diego Garcia 4. Nick Zoccoli and David Garabaldi 5. Amanda and Sue bosch 6. Quincy and Joleen Ruffin, Noelia Balbuena and Hank Valadao 7. Judy and Frank Cameron

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7 MAY 2010

Getting Back To You So many of us lead hectic lives-rushing from one appointment to another, stressed over finances, wondering how they can be enough for their job, their kids and themselves. When we start rushing through life “Life slows us down in one way or another.” Usually we will not pay attention until it is significant enough that one of the following starts to happen: ANXIETY • SLEEPLESS NIGHTS • PAIN DIGESTIVE ISSUES • HEADACHES • TMJ DYSFUNCTION • EVEN DEPRESSION It made sense to me as I walked through the process of healing my own body, that one specific modality was often not enough. The body is an intricate complex machine needing to constantly readjust and balance to the constant wear we subject it too. Craniosacral Therapy enhances your abilities to adapt to these changing conditions and strengthens the effectiveness of your Immune system. Myofascial release fabulous for addressing chronic pain & structural alignment issues, cold laser for reducing inflammationa and assistance in wound healing, Visceral manipulation for addressing digestive issues as well as stress on the Organs and massage therapy which is always a wonderful way to decompress. “Isn't it time you took care of you?”

1420 W. Kettleman Lane, Lodi

209.367.9248

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May giveaways

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Congratulations to our March winners!

Holly Tidwell. Winner of the grand prize Fitness 360 and Fleet Feet Gift Certificate!

Liz Acevedo, Joseph Velez, and Steve Prudhel. Winners of $50 Gift Certificates to one of our favorite restaurants!

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MAY 2010

Resort Living...at Home.

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