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Pancakes at Mexquite
Rise & Dine
30+ Best Breakfasts
BY EMILY PETER-COREY, TARA MENDANHA, & MEGAN WISKUS
Breakfast may be the most important—and dare we say delicious—meal of the day. But it’s also one of the most social. Something about sitting around a table savoring fluffy flapjacks smothered in syrup with your nearest and dearest makes for a memorable morning. Next time you find yourself awake and hungry for something off the beaten breakfast path, turn to this list for our top picks of where to go and what to order.
Mexquite offers both American and south-of-the-border creations, and their version of eggs benedict, Molletes, is a satisfying option for those who can’t choose. Sourdough toast is topped with refried beans, cheese, over-medium eggs, pico de gallo, green onions, queso fresco, and sour cream. But if you’re in need of something simple, nothing screams breakfast like Pancakes. Go full stack with three (or short with two); whichever you choose, they’re served with fruit and sweet maple syrup. Accompany your meal with a Mimosa and you’ll be satisfied till supper. 25095 Blue Ravine Road, Folsom, 916-9848607, mexquite.com
Molletes
Milestone in El
Dorado Hills knows their stuff. They deliver creative offerings and exceptional quality. Everything is made inhouse, too, particularly their silky, delicate lemon hollandaise that brightens up their Classic Benedict. If you’re looking for something less traditional, we suggest exploring the Chorizo Rice (spicy chorizo, Spanish rice, scrambled eggs, Cubano sauce, and pico de gallo) and seasonal Pozole (spiced pork broth, braised pork shoulder, hominy, and fixings). Whatever you do, don’t skip their over-the-top Grilled Prawn Bloody Mary that’s as good as an entire meal! 4359 Town Center Boulevard, Suite 116, El Dorado Hills, 916-934-0790, milestoneedh.com
Classic Benedict
Chorizo Rice
Grilled Prawn Bloody Mary
Eggs Benedict
Looking to spruce up your home and simultaneously grab a bite to eat? Pottery World Café in Rocklin has you covered. Once you’re done ogling at their decadent décor, feast on the Asparagus Frittata, Brioche French Toast, or Sweet Cream Pancakes. Their comforting Eggs Benedict comes atop smoked ham and a toasted English muffin smothered in creamy hollandaise, served alongside crispy grilled potatoes. Equally indulgent is their Latte, Mocha, and Hot Chocolate. Dine on their elegant patio complete with lush greenery to round out a relaxing weekend. 4419 Granite Drive, Rocklin, 916-624-8080, potteryworld.com
Where do we start with Placerville breakfast staple, Sweetie Pie’s? They’ve got every option you can think of and then some. From a traditional four-egg Omelet (choose from smoked turkey and asparagus, green chile, or bacon and spinach) to the not-so-common Tofu Scramble and Chile Relleno Casserole (an egg soufflé with cheese, green chiles, and mild salsa), the options are endless. If you’re all egged out, try their Cheese Blintz (crêpes filled with cottage and ricotta cheese, served with sour cream, blueberries, and olallieberries) or Health Nut Pancakes (buttermilk batter studded with oats, walnuts, and cinnamon). And after you’ve decided which delicacy to devour, make sure to grab one of their umpteen baked goods for the road. 577 Main Street, Placerville, 530-642-0128, sweetiepiesrestaurant.com in Loomis is home to six acres of mandarins, a halfacre of Malbec grapes, a variety of fruit trees, large vegetable gardens, and a cutting flower bed. Add to it a café full of delicacies and you’ve got the perfect hangout in springtime. Dig into their Breakfast Burrito (spinach tortilla stuffed with country-style potatoes, scrambled eggs, chicken apple sausage, pico de gallo, avocado, and cheese), Flower Farm French Toast (Cinnamon Frosted Flakes-encrusted Texas toast with whipped cream and powdered sugar, with a side of fresh fruit or country-style potatoes), or Avocado Toast (gluten-free option available) while enjoying the soothing environs. 4150 Auburn-Folsom Road, Loomis, 916-652-5661, flowerfarminn.com
Sienna has always had creative offerings for their weekend brunch menu. Elegant flavor combos, tasteful décor, and gracious servers make for a fine dining experience at this El Dorado Hills and Roseville favorite. Breakfast Burrito From Prime Rib Benedict (shaved Avocado Toast prime rib, cremini mushrooms, poached egg, and cracked pepper hollandaise with breakfast potatoes) to Very Berry French Toast (cinnamon bread, brown sugar and butter sautéed berries, whipped cream, and your choice of bacon or sausage), you’ll be treated to an endless array of fresh and well-treated food. Sip on Bottomless Mimosas and dig into deliciousness, all while seated on the picturesque patio. 3909 Park Drive, El Dorado Hills, 916-941-9694; 1480 Eureka Road, Roseville, 916-771-4700, siennarestaurants.com
Very Berry French Toast
Fast for an entire day before visiting Venita Rhea’s in Rocklin because you’ll need your appetite! And when you visit, make a beeline for the Chicken Fried Steak. It comes with three eggs, hash browns, and toast, as well as a hearty steak and yummy gravy. If you enjoy some good country home cooking, this is the place for you. Extra-large portions, made-from-scratch recipes, and friendly service make for a satisfying experience. Doesn’t hurt that they offer unlimited Mimosas, too. Try their bevy of benedicts or griddle goodies (giant Gluten-Free Pancakes, anyone?), all within a quaint, cozy atmosphere. 4415 Granite Drive, Suite 1500, Rocklin, 916-624-2697
Visit Annie’s Mimosas in
Placerville for the mimosas and stay for the Mexicaninspired breakfast menu—or the other way around. Either way, just visit. You’ll be treated to creative sips, like a Sunset Mimosa with fresh OJ and grenadine, and mouthwatering plates of Breakfast Fajitas (flat-iron steak, peppers, onions, eggs, avocado, cheese, salsa, and potatoes), Steak Ranchero Omelet (steak, onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, salsa ranchero sauce, avocado, and sour cream), Chilaquiles (crispy corn tortillas, green salsa, eggs, queso fresco, onions, sour cream, avocado, and beans), and so much more. As if that wasn’t enough, they also have regular breakfast staples as well as spins on favorites, like Hawaiian French Toast (topped with pineapple, bananas, coconut, and whipped cream). 384 Placerville Drive, Suite A, Placerville, 530344-7402, facebook.com/anniesmimosas Under normal circumstances, Reset: Café by Day in Folsom feels like a Victorian coffeehouse by day and a stylish bar at night. However, with the pandemic, they’re currently operating as a coffeehouse and bakery with hopes of reopening soon. Their current offerings include freshbaked seasonal Scones, Coffee Cake (on Saturdays), and a signature Morning Cookie (sun-dried apricots with warm spices, finished with white chocolate drizzle and pistachios). And once things resume, you can (eagerly) look forward to heartier, savory bites like Avocado Toast (mashed avocado, olive tapenade, red pepper, pickled onions, goat cheese, microgreens, and tuxedo sesame seeds) or B’s Knee’s Toast (almond butter, banana, wild honey, bacon crumbles, finished with a cinnamonsugar brûlée), along with Murphy’s Irish
Sunset Mimosa Coffee and Beermosas. 727b Sutter Street, Folsom, 916-358-9162, resetfolsom.com You can almost smell the freshbaked goodness as you approach
Breakfast Fajitas Steak Ranchero Omelet Avocado Toast
Apple Bistro
in Placerville. This glutenlover’s paradise hooks you with Cinnamon Rolls, Marionberry Turnovers, steaming Hoagie Rolls, and best of all, melt-in-your-mouth Apple Strudel. Break your overnight fast with their Country Benedict (poached eggs and patty sausage on a buttermilk biscuit with country gravy), Garden Skillet (spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and cheese with scrambled eggs and grilled potatoes), or the Build-Your-Own Omelet. With glutenfree, vegetarian, and some vegan options, this place dishes out the good stuff and has a great view of the mountains to boot. 2740 Hwy 50, Placerville, 530-363-6670, applebistro.com
Apple Strudel Build-Your-Own Omelet
Breakfast: The Cookbook by Emily Elyse Miller, $49.95 at Face in a Book, 4359 Town Center Boulevard, Suite 113, El Dorado Hills, 916-941-9401, getyourfaceinabook.com Stray away from cereal for the umpteenth time with this collection of hundreds of home-cooking recipes from across the globe. Accessible and straightforward, each recipe comes with notes offering cultural context and culinary insight.
Runamok Cinnamon + Vanilla Infused Maple Syrup, $19.99 at Newcastle Produce, 9230 Cypress Street, Newcastle, 916-6632016, newcastleproduce.com Swirl this crowd-pleasing syrup—infused with warm, spicy cinnamon and fragrant vanilla—on top of pancakes, waffles, or even into a glass of milk for a morning meal worth waking up for.
Bacon Cooker Set, $39.99 at Not Too Shabby, 729 Sutter Street, Folsom, 916-985-8979, nottooshabbyshop.com Microwave your bacon in this ceramic cooker that features debossed sentiments and a joined saucer for grease collection. It’s a less messy and more whimsical way to enjoy everyone’s favorite a.m. protein!
Tarantas Sparkling Rosé, $10.99 at Placerville Food Co-op, 535 Placerville Drive, Placerville, 530-621-3663, placervillefood.coop What’s breakfast without bubbles? Made with organically grown grapes, this bottle boasts a bright ruby hue with aromas of berry and cherry, bubblegum, pressed linen, and lemon zest.
North Fork Chai Granola, $12.50 at Terra Cottage, 722 Sutter Street, Folsom, 916-294-7923; 426 Vernon Street, Roseville, 916-899-6721, terracottageshop.com A delicious small-batch granola (made locally in Newcastle) flavored like your favorite spicy and sweet craft chai; enjoy it plain or mixed into a bowl with berries and yogurt.
Cuisinart Breakfast Central, $99.99 at Placerville Hardware, 441 Main Street, Placerville, 530-622-1151, placervillehardwareinc.com Pancakes or waffles? With this gadget, you don’t have to decide. It includes a set of four-slice Belgian waffle plates and a four-slot pancake plate that also doubles as a sausage, egg, or Canadian bacon cooker.
Pamela’s Baking & Pancake Mix, $7.99 at Nugget Markets, 4500 Post Street, El Dorado Hills, 916-933-1433; 771 Pleasant Grove Boulevard, Roseville, 916-746-7799; *1509 Blue Oaks Boulevard, Roseville, 916-918-1900, nuggetmarket.com
(*Opening March 4) Gluten-free and whole-grain, this mix makes perfect pancakes (or waffles!) every time—and only requires water, oil, and an egg.
Martinelli’s Sparkling Blush, $3.49 at Raley’s, locations vary, raleys.com
Kiddos—and adults, too!—will go crazy for this refreshing, sophisticated sip that’s made of fresh apples and a hint of raspberry juice.
Tater-Tada and Golden Pineapple Kombucha Mimosa
If you've put BarnBurner on the backburner, now's the time to bring it to the front. They've got a menu full of delicious eats like the Tater-Tada, which features a tater tot and egg tortilla layered with cilantro lime-spiked black bean spread, salsa verde, pico de gallo, guac, lettuce, jalapeños, and sour cream. And if you thought French toast couldn't get any more creative, you have to try the Angel Food French Toast featuring the lowishcalorie, light-as-a-cloud cake dipped in vanilla custard, then grilled and topped with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and whipped cream; truly a heavenly treat. Before you chow down, sip on a Golden Pineapple Kombucha Mimosa to ready your gut for a filling breakfast. 4800 Granite Drive, Suite 1B, Rocklin, 916-259-1751, barnburnercafe.com
Savor European classics at CT European Cafe & Grill in Shingle Springs, including the Beef Burgundy Crêpe: braised beef with mushrooms, veggies, and spices. Or go sweet with the Lemon Delight Crêpe, which features sweet ricotta cheese, lemon sauce, whipping cream, and a dusting of powdered sugar. If you're looking for a more American-esque plate, you have to try the Nutella Bacon French Toast. With Bellini in hand, you'll have satisfied your European wanderlust. 4064 Mother Lode Drive, Shingle Springs, 530-677-5993, crepetowncafe.com At Granite Rock Grill, they're "a little bit country and a little bit Rocklin roll" so we recommend perusing the “Rocklin's Favorites” section of their menu where you'll find Country Fried Steak with gravy and two eggs. On the flip side, Rosa's Stuffed French Toast is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, as it's stuffed with cream cheese and your choice of blueberries or marmalade (don't forget to ask for a dollop of whipped cream, too). Speaking of, go ahead and order a Hot Chocolate—it’s piled high with the sweet stuff. 5140 Pacific Street, Rocklin, 916-6259252, graniterockgrill.net
Quaint and cozy Greenhouse Café is the perfect spot for a quality and no-fuss breakfast. Try their original recipe French Toast or Biscuits and Gravy; both speak for themselves and are made with fresh ingredients and, most importantly, lots of love. Pair either with a refreshing glass of homemade Iced Tea and prepare to be pleased. 2864 Ray Lawyer Drive, Suite 106, Placerville, 530-626-4081, facebook. com/greenhousecafeplacerville
Swedish Crêpes
Window Box Café serves classic
American breakfasts but steps outside the (window) box with the Big Mess: home fries topped with scrambled eggs, ham, bacon, Polish sausage, country sausage, onions, bell peppers, and cheddar and jack cheeses…yeah, you’ll need a napkin or two. Or try their Swedish Crêpes topped with lingonberry sauce, fresh blueberries, and a dusting of powdered sugar. Just don't forget your Mimosa! Try mango, passionfruit or even pomegranate. 6835 Five Star Boulevard, Rocklin, 916-259-2114, windowboxcafe.com Nutritious and delicious is the name of the game at Nèkter Juice Bar.
Whether you wake up with the aptly named Immunity Bowl (dragon fruit, acerola Immunity Bowl cherry, strawberries, bananas, agave, house-made cashew milk, vanilla chia, and hempseed granola) or the peanut buttery Protein Power Bowl, Protein Power Bowl you’ll be ready to dive into the day. For some liquid fuel, the electric-hued Pink Flamingo—a smoothie blended with pitaya, strawberries, Pink Flamingo pineapple, agave nectar, and coconut water—is a primo, and pretty, pick. 1410 East Roseville Parkway, Suite 110, Roseville, 916-771-0428; 900 East Bidwell Street,Suite A400, Folsom, 916-7908420; 5442 Hazel Avenue, Suite 502, Fair Oaks, 916-903-7038, nekterjuicebar.com
Remember the days when we travelled abroad and marveled at how beautiful breakfasts around the world were? Us too. Thankfully, at Pho Mimi, you can get a taste of Vietnam close to home. From Mimi’s Signature Breakfast (beef, eggs, sausages, meatballs, pâté, and cilantro) to a bowl of steaming Pho (the Southeast Asian nation's preferred breakfast), there’s something for all adventurous eaters— just don’t forget to order the sweet and super strong Vietnamese Ice Condensed Milk Coffee. 25004 Blue Ravine Road, Suite 121, Folsom, 916542-7913, phomimi.com
Diners, such as Train Station Coffee
Shop, are perfect when you’re hungry for nostalgia with a side of warm, welcoming service. This Cameron Park mainstay is known for many things, but sweet cravings are certain to be satisfied after indulging in the Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast. For something on the savory side, try the Southern Scramble (two biscuits, two sausage patties, and scrambled eggs with gravy—all served up in a skillet). Wear your stretchiest pants and start your day on the right track! 4274 Mother Lode Drive, Shingle Springs, 530-677-6287, train-shop.edan.io
Corned Beef Hash, Stuffed French Toast, and Ramos Fizz
Bennett’s Kitchen Bar Market
has certainly made a name for itself in its relatively short time in business and for good reason: their brunch menu is a popular weekend treat. We suggest Corned Beef Hash—house-braised corned beef, smashed potatoes, red bell peppers, and onions with poached eggs. If you have a morning sweet tooth, go for the Stuffed French Toast—filled with decadent orange marmalade and cream cheese. Either option pairs well with their Ramos Fizz: a hand-shaken gin cocktail with egg whites and sweetened cream. Prepare for a full (and happy) stomach. 1595 Eureka Road, Roseville, 916-750-5150, bennettskitchen.com
Escape to Mario’s Early Toast and
pretend you’re waking up surf-side with an order of their Maui French Toast. Thick slices of bread are dipped in a vanilla creamcinnamon egg batter then griddled to golden perfection and topped with bananas, coconut, and macadamia nuts before being bathed in warm, sticky caramel syrup. For those hungry for something healthier, the Crossfit Skillet promises to please without weighing you down (pun intended). Wash it all down with one of their myriad mimosas— our favorite is the Gummy Worm featuring mango purée and fruit punch. 8425 Sierra College Boulevard, Roseville, 916-771-2173, mariosearlytoast.com
A new and welcome addition to Folsom is Chocolate Fish Coffee Roasters. The
beloved Sacramento-based café serves up a variety of espresso drinks (we recommend the White Mocha, though the hard-tofind Flat White is tasty too), fresh-roasted coffee beans, tea, and specialty toasts. The Almond Butter Toast (ask for it with “The Works”) features sourdough toast loaded with almond butter, cocoa nibs, bananas, and honey; and the Smashed Avo Toast (also with “The Works”) comes with avocado, lemon, radish, sprouts and nut dukkah on sourdough. They almost look too pretty to eat…almost. 25055 Blue Ravine Road, Folsom, 916-358-9950, chocolatefishcoffee.com Coffee Republic is a community staple that offers an assortment of breakfast foods, which— luckily for late risers—is served all day long. We recommend the Bistro Breakfast BLT with eggs, dill Havarti cheese, avocado, and housemade bistro sauce (in addition to the namesake ingredients) all on toasted sourdough. For those meatless munchers, we suggest the Veggie Burrito: eggs, avocado, tomatoes, potatoes, spinach, mushrooms, hummus, and salsa all wrapped cozily in a tortilla. Don’t forget to pair your sustenance with a specialty coffee or tea; the Honey Bee Latte will have you buzzing all day long. 6610 FolsomAuburn Road, Suite 2, Folsom, 916-987-8001, coffeerepublicfolsom.com
With a varied menu and weekend brunch, Iron Horse Tavern
has been a welcomed addition to Folsom’s Palladio. Their Breakfast Board—featuring egg, fruit, bacon, peanut butter, toasted crostini, and Greek yogurt—is a hands-on, build-yourown bite that’s truly a feast for the eyes! The Tavern Fried Chicken ‘n Pancakes includes fluffy flapjacks covered in bourbon-jalapeño syrup and pecan butter. Or, you can drink your breakfast and fill up with an Iron Horse Tavern Bloody Mary (Ketel One vodka, pepperoncini, olive, pickled onion and green bean, lemon, lime, and Tajin). 460 Palladio Parkway, Folsom, 916-618-4322, ironhorsetavern.net
Breakfast Board Iron Horse Tavern Bloody Mary Tavern Fried Chicken 'n Pancakes
Can’t decide between land or ocean for breakfast? Land Ocean has you covered with their weekend brunch. Go for the Country Fried Steak and Eggs, served with sausage gravy and a side of country potatoes, or the Crab Cake Benedict (crab cakes topped with poached eggs, mango hollandaise, and sweet pepper relish; served with country potatoes). But first, start off with Bottomless Mimosas…someone’s gotta find that bottom! 2720 East Bidwell Street, Folsom, 916-983-7000; 1151 Galleria Boulevard, Suite 241, Roseville, 916-407-5640, landoceanrestuarants.com
Before you even ask, no, you can’t have just mimosas for breakfast, but the extensive menu at Friends with Benedicts Mimosa
House offers plenty of options. Spice things up with their You’re the “Juan” Skillet, which tops country potatoes with three eggs scrambled alongside chorizo, jalapeños, onions, tomatoes, pepper jack cheese, sour cream, and a side of crispy chips and salsa roja. If you think puns are fun, order The Folsom “Dam” It’s Big Benedict: a toasted English muffin topped with bacon, sausage, ham, jack and cheddar cheeses, two poached eggs, and house-made hollandaise. And with a name like that, you’re bound to order a Blushing Mimosa: a blend of orange juice, pineapple, and grenadine. 2201 Francisco Drive, Suite 100, El Dorado Hills, 916-936-4830, friendswithbenedictsinc.com
House-made syrups and chai, smooth espresso, and ethically sourced coffee are just a sampling of the reasons Totem Coffee is a beloved breakfast pick. Locals love the Lavender Latte and Vegan Donuts (flavors change daily), but the Tofu Bahn Mi Bagel (loaded with sriracha cream cheese, smoky marinated tofu, pickled onions and carrots, sprouts, and cilantro) is equally enticing, as are the Granola Cups (organic vanilla yogurt and fresh organic berries) and fresh-baked, gluten-free Pastries. Grab a seat on their gorgeous patio and while the day away. 312 Main Street, Suite 104, Placerville, 530-903-3280, totemcoffeeroasters.com
Head to Goose Port Public House
on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. for a delicious brunch featuring familiar favorites like Chilaquiles Rojo. Heat up with this traditional Mexican breakfast of tortilla chips simmered in red sauce with shredded chicken, cheddar and jack cheeses, two eggs, cotija cheese, and serrano chiles. Perhaps the Boston-Style Bacon & Egg Sandwich is more your style where two eggs, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, tomatoes, and mayo are perfectly “sandwiched” between sourdough toasts. With a cocktail in hand (try Phil’s Greyhound), your weekend is bound to be wonderful. 316 Vernon Street, Roseville, 916-886-5080, gooseport. com
Boston-Style Bacon & Egg Sandwich, Chilaquiles Rojo, and Phil's Greyhound Fresh OJ The Sunny Tart
Karen’s Bakery & Café has served our
area for over 20 years with high-quality, hearty meals like the KBC Breakfast Biscuit. Pork loin, a sunny-side-up egg, tomatoes, arugula, and browned-butter aioli top a whole grain chive biscuit—and top our list as a favorite breakfast sammy. Another great option is The Sunny Tart: a puff pastry with Gruyere cheese and crème fraîche, a sunny-side-up egg, bacon, and fresh chives. Both dishes are served with fresh fruit and pair perfectly with a glass of Fresh OJ. 705 Gold Lake Drive, Folsom, 916-985-2665, karensbakery.com
Don’t waffle on The Waffle Experience.
They’ve got palate-pleasing options for all, like Praise the Lard—a lardon-studded herb waffle with house-braised pork belly, a fried egg, arugula, roasted tomatoes, ricotta, and cracked pepper agave syrup. And for dessert (or your main course, we won’t tell) try Smor’Tella, which tops a cacao liege waffle with Nutella, bananas, toasted marshmallows, graham cracker crumble, Nutella rum sauce, bananas foster sauce, plus a sprinkle of powdered sugar. If that’s not enough for you, opt for their Bloody Mary Bar where you can add a BLT slider (among other things) to your cocktail. 13405 Folsom Boulevard, Suite 950, Folsom, 916-805-5938, thewaffleexperience.com
If you’re looking for a classic breakfast, Gold Miner Café will hit the spot! On the sweet side, we recommend the Cesar’s: a warm homemade cinnamon roll with raisins, walnuts, frosting, and butter. If you’re looking for something savory, try J&J’s Taco Omelet: spicy ground beef, tomatoes, onions, olives, jack and cheddar cheeses, salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and tortilla strips. You’ll hit a gold mine with either option, especially when paired with a Hibiscus (cranberry juice and Champagne). 426 East Bidwell Street, Folsom, 916-984-4181, goldminercafe.net
You don’t have to travel to France to try authentic French cuisine. La
Croque Madame, Breakfast Skillet, and Pear Bellini
Provence Restaurant & Terrace offers a brunch menu filled
with French-inspired cooking, like a classic Croque Madame where ham, melted brie, and Mornay sauce fill toasted brioche with a fried egg on top (you can also go sans egg and order the Croque Monsieur). If an American breakfast is more your speed, go for the Breakfast Skillet, which includes your choice of bacon, pork sausage or ham, two eggs any style, breakfast potatoes, and cheese. For that sweet balance, sip on a Pear Bellini…or three. 110 Diamond Creek Place, Roseville, 916-789-2002, laprovenceroseville.com
Great crêpes (and croissants…and cookies!) await at Julian’s Pâtisserie and Café. On the savory side, try the Crêpe California featuring chicken, bacon, mozzarella, avocado, and tomato. If a sweet treat is calling, the Crêpe Forest Berries—stuffed with vanilla pastry cream, blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries—can’t be missed. Both pair well with a Latte (hot or iced) and while you’re at it, grab a few fresh pastries for the road; their Almond Croissant is always a crowd-pleaser. 6610 Folsom-Auburn Road, Suite 7, Folsom, 916-9364735, julianscafe.com Keep a ceramic bowl next to your stovetop to collect it. I like the little bacon bits in it, but you can strain them out if you want it to last longer (refrigerating it also extends the shelf life). Use it when cooking eggs or sautéing vegetables (either alone or when starting a stew or soup) and meats like pork chops. It adds a delicious layer of flavor to just about everything! —Stephanie Hibbert, Chef, Founder, Consultant chef-stephanie.com, @chefstephanieh
Do you have any tips and tricks to making perfect scrambled eggs?
The trick to perfect scrambled eggs is to whip them thoroughly before cooking and not to add salt, as it will toughen them. You can also add a teaspoon of milk per egg. Cook them in a Teflon pan with a little butter over medium heat, and stir them constantly; it incorporates air and creates a nice curd. Cook till 3/4 done and remove from heat (they will keep cooking). Lastly, stir in a dollop of grassfed butter and sprinkle with a touch of kosher salt and black pepper if desired. —Syd Bailey, Chef, Dinner Parties, Group Classes, Private Lessons chefsydbailey.com, @chefsydbailey
What’s the secret to fluffy flapjacks?
The secret is simple! Separate your egg whites from the rest of the mixture. Whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the rest of the mixture as your last step before dropping them onto the skillet. This tip works great for both pancake and waffle batter. —Spencer Shapton, Chef Silver Spork Events & Catering, silversporkevents.com, @silversporkevents
What are some hardboiled egg hacks?
Start with room temperature eggs and a pot of water with 1-2 tbsp. (or a heavy splash) of white vinegar. Bring the water to a simmer and gently lower in each egg, one at a time. Once in the pot, the water should just cover the eggs and continue to simmer (but not boil) as to avoid any egg-knocking or cracking. Set your timer for desired doneness (8-12 minutes). Once time is up, drain your eggs and place directly into an ice water bath. When the eggs have cooled completely, begin peeling. Chilling the eggs will make peeling a breeze so the colder they get, the easier it will be! —Megan Kessenich, Recipe Creator, Private Dinners, Cooking Demos Making Meggs, makingmeggs.com, @makingmeggs
The breakfast world is your oyster at Scott’s Seafood Roundhouse in
Historic Folsom where, yes, you can order Smoked Oysters or Rockefeller Oysters. From an Apple Hill Compote Belgian Waffle with Woodford Reserve bourbon salted caramel and fresh whipped cream, to a Fresh Bay Crab Louis Salad, and a Three-Egg Fresh Dungeness Crab Omelet, there’s a creative, well-executed offering for all. Stop by weekends from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. to get your fill of the aforementioned plates, plus many more! 824 Sutter Street, Folsom, 916-989-6711, scottsseafoodroundhouse.com
House of Oliver offers an extensive wine list and dinner menu, but did you know their bistro (located next door) offers breakfast and lunch to go? The Kickin’ Granola Bowl (rolled oats, slivered almonds, walnuts, and toasted coconut served over a bed of berries and honey yogurt) is a healthy but still hearty way to greet the day; or treat yourself (we approve!) to a Croissant Sticky Sando, where the flaky pastry is filled with Nutella, house-made granola, honey, and bananas. Don’t forget to grab a Sweet Latte for an extra tasty morning buzz. 3992 Douglas Boulevard, Suite 140, Roseville, 916-773-9463, houseofoliver.com
Breakfast Shot
Kickin' Granola Bowl, Croissant Sticky Sando, and Sweet Latte
Pizza for breakfast? Count us in! Wally’s Pizza Bar—which serves brunch on weekends—goes beyond goes beyond the basics with their Breakfast Pizza that loads house-made salsa verde, linguiça, four cheeses, red onions, Roma tomatoes, and three scrambled eggs atop Truckee pizza dough. Baked and topped with cilantro and avocado, you’ll have a hard time sharing a slice. If a classic breakfast is more your style, try the Chicken & Waffles drizzled with real maple syrup. But before you get to chowing down, cheers with a Breakfast Shot: Crown Royal and orange juice with a bacon chaser. Yep, we’ll drink to that! 4079 Cameron Park Lane, Cameron Park, 530-677-5205, wallyspizzabar.com
Mornings (or afternoons; breakfast is served till 4 p.m.!) are made brighter at Diamond Springs Hotel. Built back in 1916, the historic hotel has since closed, but the restaurant remains open—serving up everything from a stick-to-your-ribs Lobster Benedict, to the fluffiest Stack of Flapjacks in (dare we say) all of El Dorado County. Charming with generously portioned plates, we have one piece of advice: Bring your appetite! 545 Pleasant Valley Road, Diamond Springs, 530-621-1730, diamondsprings-hotel.com
Chicken & Waffles
Breakfast Pizza
The Purple Place may be El Dorado Hills’ original roadhouse, but this familyfriendly favorite serves up delicious eats all day long. Go all out with the Chef’s Mess, which loads three eggs, fresh biscuits smothered in sausage gravy, and country potatoes all onto one plate. Or go classic with the eggscellent El Dorado Omelet: bacon, onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, spinach, and jack cheese (with a side of country potatoes, of course). And don’t forget to grab The Purp’s Bloody Mary (Tahoe Blue vodka, special recipe Bloody Mary mix, spicy green bean, celery, pepperoncini, olive, and lime)—and cheers to local eats! 363 Green Valley Road, El Dorado Hills, 916933-2313, thepurp.com
DUE TO POSSIBLE COVID-19 DINING RESTRICTIONS PLEASE CHECK AHEAD WITH RESTAURANTS FOR ANY LIMITATIONS OR OTHER COVID-19 RELATED DETAILS.
Committed to the Health & Well-Being of El Dorado County SPRING 2021
Sweet Success with Type 2 Diabetes
To Get Vaccinated or Not To Get Vaccinated?
Experts believe that getting a vaccine is one of the most significant ways to control the COVID-19 pandemic. Peter Barba, MD, Medical Director of Marshall Medical Foundation, oversees the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines at Marshall facilities. Here, he shares answers to questions he’s received. Q: Why should I get the COVID-19 vaccine? A: Two reasons: First, getting vaccinated lowers your chances of getting severely ill from the virus, which spreads very easily. While we don’t yet know all of the lasting and secondary effects of COVID-19, we have seen that it can cause heart and brain damage and long-term fatigue.
Secondly, getting vaccinated helps protect mankind. Let’s do everything we can to prevent COVID-19 from spreading to others—including your grandmother or someone you don’t even realize you’ve spread it to.
When enough people have been vaccinated, the virus will stop spreading so quickly. We can get back to a normal life sooner, but only if enough people get the vaccine. Q: Do I still need the vaccine if I’ve had COVID-19? A: Yes. While people who get COVID-19 develop antibodies that may provide some protection, it’s not known how long antibodies last after a person recovers. You can get COVID-19 more than once. The CDC recommends getting vaccinated even after you’ve had COVID-19 to protect yourself from getting it again and to help prevent the spread. Q: Can I get COVID-19 from the vaccine? A: Absolutely not. The vaccine does not contain actual live virus. It gives our body the instructions on how to fight off the virus, but not the virus itself.
There may be mild side effects a day or two after getting the vaccine. This doesn’t mean you’re sick, it just means the vaccine is working to build your immune system. Q: Once I get the vaccine, can I stop social distancing and wearing a mask? A: Not yet. For the time being, it’s important to continue social distancing, wearing a mask in public and washing your hands often. The first dose of the vaccine offers about 50-80 percent protection after a couple of weeks.
The second dose offers 95 percent protection about two weeks after being administered. So we’ll need to slow the spread with other methods until more people are vaccinated and the virus is less widespread. Q: What if I have other questions? A: Consult your doctor or refer to a trusted source of medical advice, such as the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website: www.cdc.gov or www.familydoctor.org. Be careful of information that’s shared through social media. It’s hard to tell what’s true or false, and often social media posts are not based on science or evidence.
ABOUT MARSHALL MEDICAL CENTER
Marshall Medical Center is an independent, nonprofit community healthcare provider located in the heart of the Sierra Foothills between Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe. Marshall Medical Center includes Marshall Hospital, a fully accredited acute care facility with 111 beds located in Placerville; several outpatient facilities in Cameron Park, El Dorado Hills, Placerville and Georgetown; and many community health and education programs. Marshall has nearly 300 physicians and a team of over 1,600 employees providing quality healthcare services to over 175,000 residents of El Dorado County.
For Your HEALTH is
published as a community service by MARSHALL MEDICAL CENTER 1100 Marshall Way Placerville, CA 95667 telephone 530-622-1441 or 916-933-2273; www.marshallmedical.org
It is intended to provide information about health in general as well as healthcare services and resources available in El Dorado County. Information comes from a wide range of medical experts. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your healthcare provider.
To reach the editor of For Your Health, contact Brittany Garcia at 530-626-2816 or bgarcia@marshallmedical.org
High Cholesterol? Lower it with Easy Lifestyle Changes
Is this the year you’ve vowed to lower those cholesterol levels that have been creeping up on you? The good news is that you can control your cholesterol by making lifestyle changes— and thereby lessen your risk of heart disease and stroke.
The American Heart Association recommends you: • Check your cholesterol numbers and assess your risk. • Change your diet and lifestyle to improve your levels. • Control your cholesterol with help from your doctor if needed. What is cholesterol?
While cholesterol occurs naturally in the body, it’s also introduced by foods that are high in saturated and trans fats: red meat, whole-milk dairy products, fried and processed foods, for example. There are two types of cholesterol: LDL (bad cholesterol) and HDL (good cholesterol). Too much of the bad kind, or not enough of the good, can lead to cholesterol building up on the inner walls of the arteries that feed the heart and brain. As the amount of cholesterol in your blood increases, so does your risk of cardiovascular diseases. Lifestyle can control risks
“Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and high cholesterol is a major, but controllable, risk factor,” says Marshall Cardiologist Stanley Henjum, MD. “The earlier you start lowering your cholesterol level, the better.” Dr. Henjum recommends starting with lifestyle changes. “A healthy diet and exercise are the cornerstone of any treatment program. Lifestyle choices can either increase or decrease our cholesterol levels by as much as 20-50 percent,” he says. A heart-healthy diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, poultry and fish, and limits foods high in saturated and trans fats. Adding an exercise program can maximize the effects of such a diet by lowering your cholesterol and high blood pressure and it often leads to beneficial weight loss. Quitting smoking also helps cholesterol levels. Medication can help
If lifestyle changes don’t get your numbers in line, your doctor may prescribe medication. “Medications are often needed to treat patients with known coronary artery disease or multiple risk factors and bring their cholesterol to acceptable levels,” says Dr. Henjum. “I’ve seen a huge, positive impact on people’s lives who’ve used statins for 30 or more years.” Know your numbers
Getting screened for high cholesterol can help you and your doctor determine the best steps to lower your levels and prevent heart disease. Knowing your risks and taking preventive steps—including lifestyle changes or medication—can be the keys to your good health.
COVER STORY Sweet Success with Type 2 Diabetes
While one in four Americans over the age of 65 has type 2 diabetes—which means their body doesn’t use insulin properly—this serious disease and its related complications can be prevented and controlled, according to experts.
One way to gain control is to work with a healthcare professional to personalize a plan that helps you lower your blood sugar levels and stay on track for a healthy life.
What you can do—and why
When asked about her best advice as a Diabetes and Nutrition Educator, Marshall’s AJ Kenworthy, RN, says, “While the longterm complications of type 2 diabetes are life threatening, it’s important to know that these threats can be avoided by managing your blood sugar levels. You can live a long, healthy life with well-controlled diabetes.”
Tactics for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels include making changes to your diet, increasing physical activity and losing weight.
These moderate lifestyle changes can also help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.
Studies have shown that losing just 7% of your body weight (15 pounds if you weigh 200 pounds) can lower your risk of diabetes by nearly 60 percent. The bonus: Weight loss also lowers your risk for heart disease and stroke and is beneficial for your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. (See stories in this issue about cholesterol control and the advantages of bariatric surgery for weight loss.)
Taran Kaur, MD, a family medicine physician who specializes in diet and nutrition at Marshall Medical Center, agrees.
Type 2 diabetes is easier to deal with at its earliest stages, according to Dr. Kaur. Early diagnosis and treatment can also help decrease the risk of developing complications related to the disease, including skin infections, kidney disease, neuropathy (nerve damage), eye complications, high blood pressure and stroke.
Watch for symptoms
Some people only have mild symptoms of type 2 diabetes, so
It’s important to catch it early.
they go unnoticed. According to the American Diabetes Association, common symptoms include: • Urinating often • Feeling very thirsty • Feeling very hungry—even though you are eating • Extreme fatigue • Blurry vision • Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal • Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands/feet
Diagnosing diabetes
Diabetes is typically diagnosed with a fasting plasma glucose test—which measures blood sugar levels after eight hours of fasting—or with a nonfasting A1C test—which measures your average blood sugar for the past two to three months. If results show that your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, your doctor will prescribe a treatment program to keep them as close to normal as possible. A test may also indicate prediabetes, where your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be called diabetes. This condition puts you at risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, so it’s important to take steps to lower your blood sugar levels.
Managing the disease
Sometimes, in addition to a healthy diet and an active lifestyle, your doctor may prescribe pills and/or insulin to help manage your blood sugar. “Medications are important for reducing insulin resistance in the body and slowing down the progression of diabetes,” says Dr. Kaur.
“Diabetes is a chronic disease. Sticking with a treatment plan and lifestyle changes needs to be lifelong commitment,” Dr. Kaur says.
Your next step
Work with a healthcare professional who can help you manage your health. For personalized support by a diabetes educator, contact the Marshall Diabetes and Nutrition Education program at (530) 672-7021. The program at Marshall Medical Center is recognized by the American Diabetes Association (ADA).
To learn more about diabetes or take an online risk test, go to the ADA website at www.diabetes.org.
Risks associated with type 2 diabetes
• Age: The older you are, the higher your risk • Family history: A parent, brother or sister with diabetes • Those with high blood pressure • People who are physically inactive • Race: Black, Hispanic/Latino,
American Indian, Asian American or Pacific Islander • Overweight: Higher Body Mass
Index (BMI) means higher risk • Diagnosed with gestational diabetes
Source: American Diabetes Association
Marshall Patient Gives Back to the Community
When Faye lost her husband Fred on Father’s Day, she was compelled to do something for others through a donation. After careful consideration, she called Marshall’s Community Care Network (CCN).
“When Faye called, I explained that donations to CCN are used to help chronically ill patients who can’t afford blood pressure and glucose monitors, or walkers and wheelchairs,” said Sherry. Faye loved the idea and mailed her gift that day.
“My husband was an amazing man. He served our country in three wars and spoke five languages. He was also a generous person and would have been happy with my decision to help our neighbors in need,” said Faye.
Managing a chronic illness is challenging. Many have to juggle multiple doctors, complicated medications, and specific doctor’s orders to improve their health. It can be overwhelming, and when you are ill, it can seem impossible. This is where the Community Care Network helps. CCN was developed to assist people with health care coordination and management. Various services are offered depending on needs and a patient’s desired level of involvement.
Marshall Foundation for Community Health is grateful to people like Faye. “Without donors, we wouldn’t be able to provide the funds that support important health programs. Health and wellness are an imperative part of our county’s prosperity and future. The healthier our residents, the better off our county,” pointed out Jamie Johnson, Executive Director of Marshall Foundation for Community Health.
To make your own tax-deductible donation through Marshall Foundation for Community Health, visit marshallfound.org/donate-now, or call (530) 642-9984 to discuss other options.
Enhancements to Care
Marshall Medical Center is dedicated to your care and wants to help you live as healthy a life as possible. Behind the scenes, your primary care provider is part of a larger care team to assist with keeping your preventive care upto-date. In the coming months, you may receive messages from your clinic’s medical director regarding your regular screenings to ensure you’re receiving comprehensive care. Your primary care provider is still your main contact and will follow up with you as usual.
Putting a Premium on Hospital Safety
While the safety of patients and staff has always been a top priority at Marshall Medical Center, it’s taken on a critical significance during the pandemic.
When it comes to preventing the spread of any infection, NorrisEven says, “We follow the Center for Disease Control guidelines—which changed continuously when COVID-19 hit—to make sure we are upto-date on everything.” Examples included implementing strict health screening protocols for anyone entering any of Marshall Medical Center’s facilities, and quickly providing PPE training and COVID-19 testing for hospital staff during the pandemic’s heightened sense of urgency. It’s also critical to keep the hospital’s environment clean and safe. While Marshall uses a germ-zapping robot in patient rooms to ensure the highest level of cleaning in between patient stays, Norris-Even says it’s the housekeeping staff that deserves the credit for maintaining high environmental standards in the hospital.
During the past year, Marshall demonstrated its commitment to safety by introducing a program that encouraged staff to be on the lookout for potential safety issues. “Staff observations gave us an opportunity to identify areas for improvement,” says Norris-Even. ”In six months we saw a tremendous jump in ways our staff became involved in providing more excellent care to patients. If something needed to be adjusted, we made rapid improvements.”
Marshall has received state and national recognition for its commitment to quality care and safety. “These awards show the commitment, hard work and patient-centered focus that Marshall demonstrates 24 hours a day,” says Norris-Even.
MARSHALL RECOGNIZED FOR ITS HEALTH AND SAFETY COMMITMENT
Marshall Medical Center recently received two honors for its extraordinary measures to ensure the health and safety of its staff and patients. • Marshall earned an “A” in the Fall 2020 Hospital
Safety Grade program from The Leapfrog
Group. In its nationwide evaluation of 2,600 hospitals, Leapfrog recognized Marshall’s hospital providers and staff for demonstrating
• The California
Department of Public
Health recognized
Marshall with a bronze designation as a top performer in its Healthcare-
Associated Infections
Program. Marshall’s participation in the
CDPH antimicrobial stewardship program is part of the hospital’s commitment to improving patient outcomes while monitoring the use of antibiotics.
Bariatric Surgery Offers a Path to Weight Loss
Weight loss can be life changing. But sometimes, even with diet and exercise, it can be an elusive milestone. For those who are severely overweight and dealing with the negative health effects of obesity, weight loss surgery—known as bariatric surgery—may provide the path to good health.
“Bariatric surgery can help patients achieve long-term weight loss, improve their quality of life and live longer,” says Ryan Lussenden, MD, a board certified surgeon and director of Marshall Medical Center’s Bariatric Surgery Program. “People come to us wanting to live healthier, more active lives and enjoy their children and grandchildren. It’s a happy day when they begin enjoying their new life.”
What are the health benefits? The many health benefits associated with weight loss following bariatric surgery include improvements in type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, arthritis and depression.
How does bariatric surgery work? One of the most common bariatric procedures is sleeve gastrectomy, where 75-80 percent of the stomach is removed laparoscopically through small incisions in the abdominal wall. The reduction of stomach volume causes the patient to feel full faster and reduces the secretion of hunger hormones. Gastric bypass is another common type of bariatric surgery. It alters the stomach, creating a small pouch that is directly connected to the small intestine.
Both procedures surgically limit the amount of food a patient can eat and change the way the body absorbs nutrients. The result: Patients can lose an average of 50-80 percent of their excess body weight two years after surgery, depending on the type of surgery performed and the patient’s level of commitment to a post-surgical diet and exercise regime. Am I a candidate? Bariatric surgery candidates typically are more than 100 pounds overweight. They may have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or greater, or a BMI of 35-39 along with one or more medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension that would significantly improve with weight loss.
How Marshall can help “We want patients to succeed with their permanent weight loss goals and we’re here to support their commitment to diet, exercise and behavioral changes before and after surgery,” Dr. Lussenden says. Marshall’s team includes a board certified psychiatrist and a physician who specializes in diet and nutrition, as well as an certified nutritionist from Marshall’s Diabetes and Nutrition Education.
If you’re significantly overweight and ready to commit to a new path to good health, talk with your primary care doctor or call Marshall Medical Center’s Bariatric Surgery Program at 530-642-7546 (SLIM).
— Helwig Winery is Open —
The Winery and Kitchen are open 7-days a week (closed Easter), please note the winery is 21 and older; tastings by reservation only. Tastings and dining are all outdoors so dress warm and enjoy! Make your Reservation today! Helwig Winery 11555 Shenandoah Road | Plymouth | 209-245-5200 helwigwinery.com | / HelwigWinery | / helwigwinery
— Time for Some Spring Cleaning—
At sBarkles we have 5 DIY stations for you to wash your pet, with everything you need to get your pet completely clean including brushes, a unique pressurized washing system, towels and blow dryer, for only $15 per pet. sBarkles Holistic 850 E Bidwell Street, Ste. 150 | Folsom | 916-984-0102 sbarkles.com | / sbarklesdogs | / sbarklesdogs
— Hello Spring —
Reconnect And Reflect On Precious Moments. Appreciate You and Your family with Outdoor Fun Photo Session. Session starting at $125 MomentsbyMita Photography 916-257-2234 | momentsbymita@gmail.com www.momentsbymita.com / MomentsbyMita | / momentsbymita — Chef Prepared Easter Dinner —
Treat your loved ones (and yourself!) to a custom prepared Easter Dinner by an award-winning local chef! Call to customize and reserve your dinner! Diane Wilkinson Catering 2640 Roxana Street | Placerville | 530-622-0799 dianewilkinsoncatering.com | / DianeWilkinsonCatering / dianewilkinsoncatering — Look Who’s Hopping into Town —
Hop in to get your Easter treats! Handmade in Folsom, Snooks chocolate bunnies, chocolate filled eggs, bunny pops along with their candies, truffles and brittle are crafted in small batches using only the finest ingredients. Snooks Chocolate Factory 731 Sutter Street | Folsom | 916-985-0620 snookscandies.com | / snooksfolsom | / snookscandies
— Stay in Touch with Flowers —
Let your loved ones know you are thinking of them! Flower bouquets start at $65 Cameron Park Florist 3420 Coach Lane, Ste. 2 | Cameron Park 530-677-3911 | www.cameroparkflorist.com / cameronpark.florist | / cameronparkflorist — Spring has Sprung —
Just in time for Spring...fun and flirty hats, dresses, tops, denim, boots, accessories and more! New arrivals daily! Your One Stop Fashion Retail Shop—#ShopLocal Lees’ Boutique 4110 Datsun Court | Shingle Springs 530-677-4891 | leesboutique.net / leesfeedboutique | / leesfeedboutique
— The Oxygen Pillow —
Hop on in for a personal pillow fitting! The Oxygen Pillow comes in more than 15 different heights and densities...let's find you the perfect pillow for the best sleep ever. European Sleep Design 6606 Folsom-Auburn Road, Suite 5 | Folsom 916-989-8909 | sleepdesign.com / EuropeanSleepDesign | / europeansleepdesign — When Life Gives You Lemons —
...Make Meringue!With a huge selection of gifts for the home, for men, women and children, we can help you find just the right gift for every season and reason! Not Too Shabby / Not Too Shabby Studio 729 Sutter Street | Folsom | 916-985-8979 151 N Sunrise, Suite 511 | Roseville | 916-666-7220 nottooshabbyshop.com | / nottooshabbyshop
