SHOP LOCAL,
Live Local
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Shopping in Riverside is more than checking off your holiday list—it’s about embracing the city’s culture and creativity. Explore locally owned shops filled with unique finds or visit markets featuring the work of talented artisans. Every purchase has meaning, every encounter feels welcoming, and every discovery reflects Riverside’s distinct character.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift, a handmade treasure, or just enjoying a day out, Riverside offers more than just shopping. It’s about connecting with your community and creating lasting memories. From day dates with friends to family outings or a night on the town, you’ll find it all close to home.
When you shop local, you’re doing more than supporting businesses— you’re strengthening Riverside’s economy and helping sustain what makes our city special. Each purchase uplifts the people and places that shape our community. This holiday season, find gifts, experiences, and memories to treasure, all while supporting the city you love. Shop local, live local, and celebrate Riverside!
Mardon Jewelers
Ars Billiards 4445 Tyler St.
Freedom in Motion Parkour Gym
La Sierra Ave.
Mud Hut and Pottery Art Studio
Mission Galleria
Shoppe
Sparkle Sloth Studios 18791 Van Buren Blvd. STE A
Inland Exposures
The Riversider | December 2024
“Meet me at the Cheech”
There’s a new greeter on the promenade in front of the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Arts and Culture. Sculptor and pioneer of Chicano art Ignacio Gomez was commissioned to create a lifesized bronze statue of the museum’s namesake, Cheech Marin.
At the entrance to the building, with his name above the doors, the statue “Cheech” stands with open arms, offering a warm greeting to each visitor. Unlike some famous flops that have popped up recently in the news, this statue absolutely nails the subject. It looks like Cheech, and it captures the spirit of the universally known and beloved man.
“Meet me at the Cheech” became a rallying cry during the early stages of the museum’s organization and fundraising. Cheech used the phrase during the first press conference announcing the project. The unveiling of this statue is the culmination of the work started by the late Ofelia Valdez-Yeager. The statue was the last of her projects at the Cheech before her passing. Even in her absence, Ofelia’s love and passion for the Cheech still provides the energy that drives the institution.
During their speeches at the statue unveiling ceremony, both Ignacio Gomez and Cheech described Ofelia as a guardian. Gomez said, “Ofelia was a guardian angel. Because of her, we have Cesar Chavez (the statue of Chavez by Gomez, also commissioned by Ofelia on the Main Street Mall)... because of her, we have the Cheech Museum in
Riverside, and because of her, we have this Cheech statue.” In his presentation, Cheech continued the theme, “Ofelia was my friend and my guardian. Because of her, we can be here today.”
These are not just platitudes. These men, on the verge of tears, recognized the impact of Ofelia’s work to secure the Cheech’s existence in its current location. Without Ofelia Valdez-Yeager, there would be no Cheech Center for Chicano Arts and Culture, full stop.
As Chicano art becomes mainstream, the artists who display there will become more famous. The Cheech is already driving interest in the movement. The Yolanda Lopez exhibit at the Cheech has shown well and piqued interest in her body of work. Yolanda’s work is more famous as the exhibition draws to an end than when it began.
The Cheech is no longer just a place that houses a collection. The museum has become a driver of the genre. The Cheech will become a place of pilgrimage for fans of and students of Chicano Art. What began as, and still is in many ways, a movement of protest and identity has become more accepted with familiarity. Many of the principals of the movement have become part of mainstream culture. This includes Cheech. It is proper and true that Chicano culture is mainstream culture, and the products of that culture are now Americana.
His signature will stay on the wall outside long after Cheech Marin is gone. His collection
will remain in place on Mission Inn Avenue. The bronze version of Cheech is now there for generations of future visitors. We will see the patina in the folds of his t-shirt. We will see the polish from thousands of handshakes and rubs on the head. People will come to Riverside with the intent to see Ignacio Gomez’s work. Students on field trips will have their pictures taken with the statue. The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art and Culture will be as much a part of Cheech’s legacy as his successful comedy and film career. We will know the name of the side of the building and the names of the artists on display.
As things age and become established, we tend to forget the work and vision at the genesis of these institutions. The conviction, the advocacy, and the fundraising that got it started get lost in the celebrations of successes and the work it takes to maintain places like the Cheech over time. I know there will be a monument to remind those future generations of Ofelia Valdez-Yeager. Her family will tell you they already feel her there. The face of the Cheech is Richard “Cheech” Marin, the heart of the Cheech is the art on the walls and the movements and personalities from which they emerge, and the spirit of the Cheech is Ofelia. This story also appeared in the Raincross Gazette . Please subscribe to their newsletter at Raincrossgazette.com
WORDS: KEN CRAWFORD
PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER
Sculptor Ignacio Gomez with the two Cheech's.
Ofilia Valdez-Yeager's family at the unveiling.
Fireworks kick-off the Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa.
Photo by Julian Jolliffe
Blumenthal & Moore, Inland Southern California’s pre-eminent criminal defense firm, is devoted exclusively to the defense of the accused.
The firm’s trial-tested attorneys handle a range of criminal matters, from simple to complex. They are often retained in difficult cases, and defend people from all walks of the community.
In every case, the client benefits from a team approach. By combining their expertise, the attorneys at Blumenthal & Moore bring more than 100 years of legal experience to every case, providing each client with the best possible defense.
Virginia Blumenthal, Jeff Moore, Brent Romney and Heather Green all contribute unique strengths and perspectives, along with thorough knowledge of the court system in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Mr. Moore and Mr. Romney are tough former prosecutors who put their experience to work in defending cases, while Ms. Green has a passion for defending those with mental health disorders – prioritizing justice for everyone, regardless of mental health status.
Founding attorney Virginia Blumenthal, known for opening the first female-owned law firm in the region, has been named one of the Top 100 trial lawyers in the United States by the National Trial Lawyers. Over time, she has received a long list of awards for her courtroom excellence and volunteer service in the community.
Most recently, Ms. Blumenthal was named Best Lawyer in the Inland Empire by Inland Empire Magazine (2024); received a Champions for Justice Award from the Fair Housing Council of Riverside County (2023); received the Civil Rights Law Giant Award from the Riverside County NAACP Youth Council (2023); and received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Corona Chamber of Commerce (2023).
Also in 2023, the team at Blumenthal & Moore received the Small Business Eagle Award from the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce – an honor that reflects a culture of excellence, experience and nearly five decades of commitment to clients.
(951) 682-5110
3993 Market Street
Riverside, CA 92501
blumenthallawoffices.com
Love Letter to Riverside
There’s nothing like being home for the holidays in Riverside. The air is crisp, mountains are covered with snow, and all around town homes are beautifully decorated for the holidays. Once the lights are switched on in November, the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa brightly ushers in our city’s holiday season.
With tens of thousands of people descending upon our downtown, we’re grateful for what the Festival does for our city’s economy. Please, don’t forget to spend some time exploring and shopping at our eclectic mix of downtown shops on and off Main Street.
Some of our favorites include the Raincross District where you can buy absolutely anyone a gift, Penrose Record Room if you’re looking for real vinyl, Mi Cultura to get your own Concha slippers, Downtowne Bookstore for an amazing array of new and used books, Crooks Skate Shop for some sweet Nike SB’s, and Urge Palette for your art supplies. There are many other hidden gems around downtown, so take your time to cruise around admiring the scenery and visit these uniquely Riverside businesses.
Our cover story features a festively decorated Victorian home on Mulberry Street. It’s a perfect
snapshot of classic Americana Christmas. The home owners, Thomas and Sandee Aguna, give us a glimpse inside their Christmas-themed decor. Our resident writer and city councilman, Philip Falcone, details the interesting history behind the man who built this Victorian masterpiece in 1893.
In this issue we also share our guide to Riverside’s own craft breweries. There are six breweries that actually brew their beer in town. In our story, we pay homage to the original Riverside Brewing Co. that was the first to brew in the city. Since then, Riverside has seen a boom in breweries over the years. Many are women owned and operated, which is something our city should be proud of because it’s not just for guys anymore!
We hope that you find our brewery guide useful and that it encourages you to try out these great establishments with family and friends. Especially those visiting our beautiful city this holiday season. Cheers!
Happy Holidays from The Riversider !
Brad Alewine Group
LUXURY EQUESTRIAN RANCH
2523 Adams Street | Riverside
Offered at $3,000,000 Arlington Heights
2607 Chauncy Place | Riverside
Offered at $1,399,900 Hawarden Hills
20883 Westbury Road | Riverside
Offered at $849,900 Orangecrest
Brad Alewine
6601 Hawarden Drive | Riverside
Offered at $1,500,000 Hawarden Hills
6176 Oswego Drive | Riverside
Offered at $849,900 Canyon Crest
2686 Wintertree Court | Riverside
Offered at $639,900 Hawarden Hills
THERIVERSIDER.COM
Co-Publisher Alondra Figueroa alondra@theriversider.com
Co-Publisher Zach Cordner zach@theriversider.com
Design Director/Co-Founder Dwayne Carter
Editor at Large Ken Crawford ken@theriversider.com
Associate Editor Mano Mirandé mano@theriversider.com
Copy Editor Shelby Rowe
Staff Photographer Julian Jolliffe
Marketing Director/Hypeman Jarod DeAnda
Advertising Please contact: advertising@theriversider.com
Contributors
Philip Falcone, H. Vincent Moses PhD
Special Thanks:
Kaitlin Bilhartz, Patricia Lock Dawson, Philip Falcone, Jeremy Leyva, Shane Clark, Evelyn Cordner, Jack Amarillas, The Standerfer Family, Amber Lussier, Leslee Gaul, H. Vincent Moses, PHD, Lucia Winsor, Riverside Museum, and all of our advertisers.
Distribution
Kimo Figueroa, Abijah Hensley Dedicated to the memory of Aaron Schmidt 1972-2022
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All inquiries, please contact info@theriversider.com
Published by: Riversider Media, Inc. ©2024 The Riversider Magazine 17130 Van Buren Blvd. #595 Riverside, CA 92504
M. López: Women’s Work is Never Done On view through January 26, 2025
The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture of the Riverside Art Museum 3581 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501 Eve Wood: Mostly Birds (and a Few Humans) On view through March 30, 2025
Riverside Art Museum 3425 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501
Scan to get tickets or visit riversideart museum.org
Riverside's Finest Ada Passaro
WORDS: KEN CRAWFORD PHOTO: JULIAN JOLLIFFE
I met Ada Passaro only a few months ago. I got a tip from Sue Mitchell, a reader of the Raincross Gazette , that she was turning 100 years old. Centenarians are low-hanging fruit for local papers. Endurance alone is sufficient for a few hundred words.
Ada is more than a novelty survivor. For many years, she owned and operated Second Nature, a small boutique that is a fondly remembered part of the Main Street Mall boutique scene. Ada was also a designer and sign painter, creating many of the shop signs that hung above the doors of Main Street businesses. Ada is a significant contributor to the culture and aesthetic of the walking mall for many years.
At age 80, she decided to expand her artistic repertoire into landscape painting. She enrolled in classes, worked on new techniques, and grew
fond of pastels. Her talent was evident, and Ada had no intent of hiding away and painting for pleasure. She is active and beloved in the Riverside art scene.
Her work focuses on the American Southwest, particularly the Highway 395 corridor and Riverside. Ada’s technique and palette are bold. Her light Impasto creates a soft-focus creaminess that lends well to her subject. Her paintings are of places you may or may not know but certainly would love to be in the moment.
Ada is an optimist. To start a new journey at 80, when most people are looking to settle in, is courageous. It is a move that assumes the best is yet to come. A life well-lived, indeed, but Ada is not done creating. Two decades later, Ada proved that the investment in herself was of great value. Her twenty-year portfolio is impressive and punctuates her story more as an exclamation point than an ellipsis.
It should be said, at the time of writing this story, Ada is in a rehabilitation facility following a recent fall. Her prognosis is excellent
and no major injury occurred but everything is serious at 100 years old. When we talked recently (before her fall), she said the only thing she really needed help with was the pull tab on her tuna cans. She had a “college-aged boy” who lived next door come and open her cans and transfer them to a more manageable container for her.
We believe in Ada, she is not quite five feet tall, but in all ways she has the spirit of a giant. Last time we talked, we talked about her RCAA solo exhibit that ran through her 100th birthday. She was moved by the response, by the community and her friends. “I have good friends that are helpful, they fill my life,” she said. Those friends may have to take care of a bit more than tuna cans to get Ada back in front of a canvas, but I don’t think anyone believes that Ada is done telling her story.
We will update you on our social media and in the Raincross Gazette when Ada gets back home and back to work. For now, you can reach out to the Riverside Community Arts Association at RCAARTS.com about available paintings.
Local Retailer
The Riversider | December 2024
Vixen & Beard
WORDS: MANO MIRANDÉ PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER
Vixen & Beard opened its new location on the corner of Magnolia Avenue and Beatty Drive near the Riverside Plaza in August 2024, just one month after closing their previous shop inside the Tyler Galleria.
Business owners Marvin and Anayely Sandoval are proud to call Riverside home after moving from their hometown of Fontana in 2022. Born in the same hospital in Montebello just seven weeks apart, their families moved to Fontana around the same time, where Marvin and Anayely met in junior high school. They became high school sweethearts and were married with their first child by the end of 2015–a change that influenced their decision to open a family business just two years later at only 27 years old.
Complete with four full-service barber stations, Vixen & Beard offers much more than just haircuts and grooming products; they provide a unique shopping experience to their customers. “I wanted to make it feel like home,” Anayely explained. “When you walk in, we want you to immediately feel welcomed and provide a comfortable environment.”
The Sandovals are proud supporters of independent brands and pay close attention when selecting goods for their store. “We try to find items that you wouldn’t normally find in other stores,” Anayely explained. “If it’s in our store, it’s because we believe in the brand.”
In addition to being the only official Pendleton dealer in the area, their shelves are fully stocked with a wide array of high-end men’s workwear and accessories from independent brands such as Iron & Resin and Pyknic.
“A lot of the men’s clothing is a blue-collar style,” Marvin said. “These guys might be in dirty clothes most of the time, but when it comes to the weekend, they do care how they look, and they aren’t afraid to spend money on highquality goods.”
The shop’s current aesthetic and inventory was not what the Sandovals initially intended when starting their business. Anayely explained, “The original idea was to have a makeup store, since I have a background in makeup and retail, but after a few months Marvin had the idea to add men’s products.” They chose the name Vixen & Beard to represent both masculinity and femininity, but soon realized the importance of adapting to meet clients’ needs.
“The men’s stuff was just supposed to be a small section, that way while the women are shopping, the men have something to look at and possibly buy,” Marvin said. After opening their second location at Ontario Mills in 2018, they noticed a significant increase in sales of men’s hair and grooming products, and it wasn’t long before customers began inquiring about haircuts and beard trims. “We thought about it, and we were like, how hard could opening a barber shop be?” Anayely recalled with a laugh, “Very hard.”
In November 2019, they moved into a larger space inside the Galleria to include a full-service barber shop. Anayely went to school to earn her barber’s license, and Marvin took up photography to improve social media and marketing, just as they learned their second child was on the way. Unfortunately, they were
forced to close their second location due to the pandemic and after re-opening their Galleria store, they decided to focus primarily on men’s products and expanded their inventory to include clothing and other accessories.
After searching for over six months, the Sandovals have happily settled into their new home. Although it may not have the same foot traffic as the mall, their core clientele has continued to support them, a testament to the quality of the goods and services they provide. “We wanted to really establish that we are a part of this community. We love Riverside, and we’re here to stay.”
Vixen & Beard
The Sandoval family
Luke Dragon
Luke Dragon: Forging with Fire They say medicine is a form of art—and art, a form of medicine. For Luke Dragon, this couldn’t be more true. His work bridges science with the mystical, often blending human anatomy with surrealist imagery, including his iconic dragon. Like his namesake—the patron saint of physicians and artists—Luke is both an emergency physician and a dedicated artist, as well as a captain in the U.S.
Army. He embodies the dragon’s spirit: a fierce protector, skilled healer, and visionary creator.
Luke’s creative journey began in Riverside, where he discovered his love for art as a teenager, spray-painting at a local spot called “The Slide.” It was there he created his signature dragon character, a symbol that would come to define his work.
After graduating from UC Berkeley, Luke brought his talents to Oakland’s Chinatown, addressing the area’s graffiti problem. “Businesses were being fined for not cleaning it up,” he shared. “I had the idea to knock on doors and offer to paint murals for free. It was a win-win—I got to create, and they avoided fines.”
Initially, not everyone embraced his work. “Some graffiti artists didn’t like me painting over their spots,” Luke admitted. “So, I started inviting them to collaborate. I’d work their styles into my dragons.” This spirit of teamwork inspired the creation of Dragon School, a nonprofit dedicated
to transforming Chinatown into a vibrant hub of community art.
Luke temporarily stepped away from art during medical school at the University of Illinois. After completing his residency at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, he reconnected with his creativity in New York City, immersing himself in the art scene. “I started doing subway art, live painting, and gallery shows—I made a lot of friends there,” he said.
In 2021, Luke returned to California and joined the Eastside Arthouse in Riverside, reconnecting with his roots and the local art community. His friend Juan Navarro, whom he met during a graffiti event in Oakland, helped him get involved.
“Juan was there during Dragon School, and now I get to be part of his work here,” Luke shares.
Now preparing to start an MFA program at the Academy of Art in San Francisco, Luke is ready to take his art to the next level. “I aspire to be a true Renaissance artist, creating works that combine landscapes, mythical beings, abstraction, and surrealism,” he said. “The ideas in my head go far beyond what I’ve done so far. Just wait and see.”
EASTSIDE ARTHOUSE 4177 Park Avenue www.eastsidearthouse.studio @eastsidearthouse
Business
Riversider
Tavaglione Realty 100 Years in the Making
WORDS: ALONDRA FIGUEROA
ZACH CORDNER
For almost 100 years the Tavaglione family has dedicated themselves to Riverside in many ways by being a family of entrepreneurs. They have bought and sold property all throughout Riverside for decades. They have helped provide jobs for people of industry, but most importantly they have helped forge our great town into what it is today.
Originally from southern Italy, this amazing family dynasty came to Riverside in 1927. They quickly built the Tavaglione home and from there they ventured into creating their own Rubidoux Winery. In 1958, they decided to use the new 91 freeway to their advantage and built our town’s beloved Tava Lanes bowling alley. Tava lanes provided generations of families so much joy that before they knew it Tavaglione became a household name.
Owner and operator George Tavaglione Sr. instilled a tremendous sense of pride in hospitality and service to the community in his son George Jr. by working tirelessly every day. Going the extra mile to build connections with locals was his specialty. George Jr. credits his father for showing him how to provide outstanding customer service as well as the importance of treating everyone fairly and with great respect.
George remembers that no matter how busy they were, his father would always take time to chat with individual bowlers and was never too
busy to do the big and little things that people would remember. He was excellent at building trust and customer loyalty, which is what made Tava Lanes such a special place and institution in Riverside. After his passing in 1993, George Jr.’s mother, Cheryl took over and continued to teach him valuable lessons in not only customer service but community service until they closed their doors in 2005.
After Tava Lanes closed, George and his sisters, Angela and Dawn, opened Lounge 33 at the Riverside Plaza. Named specifically because 33 comes after 32, paying homage to the 32 lanes in the legendary bowling alley where George learned so much about customer service and building relationships. After nearly eight years focused on nightlife at the lounge, George switched gears from the nightclub scene to being a family man. Following in his family’s entrepreneurial steps, yet still forging his own path as he dove right into real estate.
For the past decade George Tavglione has quietly built a fabulous real estate group that specializes in providing his clients with high-end concierge style service and support throughout their luxury real estate purchase. George takes pride in focusing only on properties in Riverside. As a homegrown Riversider, our town is home to his entire family including his lovely wife, Katie, who teaches third grade at Harrison Elementary School
as well as their beautiful daughters, Tessa and Sophia. George offers perfectly procured, but minimal listings because he wants to dedicate himself to each and every client by providing them support through the entire process. If you have ever bought a house you know that it can be one of the hardest decisions to make in your life and often an emotional one! He tailors his impeccable service to suit his clients diverse needs. They can always count on George to be there for them every step of the way to ensure that they are completely satisfied and happy. He prides himself in carrying forward that special Tavaglione touch and notes George Sr. continues to inspire him daily to treat his clients like family and give them nothing but the absolute best.
George shared with The Riversider that he wants his real estate clientele to see how wonderful Riverside can be at any stage in life. Whether you are looking for your first starter home or your forever home, there is a property in Riverside that is perfect for you! Be sure to contact George Tavaglione directly to get that top level service that you and your family truly deserve.
Tavaglione Realty Group
Tavarealtygroup.com
Email: george@tavaglionerealtygroup.com
Instagram/Facebook: @tavaglionerealtygroup
PHOTO:
The Christmas House on Mulberry Street
WORDS: PHILIP FALCONE
Each December, few houses are adorned as lavishly or shine as bright as the J.P. Baumgartner House at 3229 Mulberry Street. Constructed by contractor D. Gunning in 1893 for J.P Baumgartner and family, every eave and balustrade of this Victorian and Greek Revival home is embellished with holiday spirit.
Construction on this 2,000 square foot house began in November 1893 and the design was described as a handsome colonial cottage of seven rooms with all the modern conveniences—bath, toilets, closets, pantries, two spacious halls, three exterior verandas, and piped for gas. The twostory shingle-over-clapboard sided house features elements of both Victorian and Greek Revival architecture including Palladian windows where a taller center arched window is flanked by a rectangular window on either side, doric columns with light embellishments, a wrap-around porch, and a diamond shingle pattern on the second story exterior.
The property is nestled one lot south from Second Street in the Heritage Square Historic District. The house is Structure of Merit #61—the second highest historical designation the City of Riverside bestows upon a historic structure. The stately façade faces east and the lot, which is 65 feet wide by 150 feet deep, was once liberally planted with twenty large orange trees, a dozen walnut trees, and five pepper trees.
Born in 1861 in Boone, Missouri and relocated to Riverside by 1867, J.P. Baumgartner was an ambitious, energetic, and industrious young man who was an early newspaper owner and editor affiliated with Riverside’s The Phoenix and the Riverside Reflex, before moving on to the Riverside Daily Press. By 1898, Baumgartner utilized the revenue from the sale of the oranges and walnuts on his property to cover the taxes and insurance on the residence. His successful job in local newspapers and the sale of the property’s crops led to a comfortable life for the Baumgartners.
Come February 1899, Baumgartner wished to relocate to the Eastside where he had acquired some rural property and subsequently listed his Mulberry Street home for sale. In the advertisement he stated that the home is widely conceded to be one of the handsomest and highest homes of its class in Riverside. The home was listed for $3,100.
By March 1900, with the house still for sale, Baumgartner decided to relocate to Pasadena as opposed to his Eastside property to lead the Pasadena Star newspaper company. With time of the essence, he reduced the asking price to
PHOTOS: JULIAN JOLLIFFE
$2,600 or rent to a “man of repute” for $25 a month. He would later go on to also own the Long Beach Press and Santa Ana Register—he sold the latter in 1911 for $750,000, a price believed to be the highest ever paid for a newspaper of its class at that time.
Later in 1900, local real estate agent for the Imperial Land Company, I.W. Gleason purchased the home and lived there for two years. Gleason was a successful agent in selling large plots of government land with “abundant water rights,” cites one of his many newspaper advertisements. Land and water rights sold for $12.50 an acre in that day.
Mrs. Gleason was devoted to the cause of prohibition and was active in Riverside’s chapter of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union (WCTU). The Union was founded in Cleveland, Ohio in 1874 and sought to reduce alcohol consumption in the United States, abolish liquor sales, and encourage abstinence. The home was regularly the gathering place for WCTU socials where all members were encouraged to attend and bring a friend. At these socials the women sang hymns, prayed, and discussed the regular publications from the national WCTU organization. This organization still exists today.
In 1902, I. W. Gleason sold the home to Charles P. Stoneman—a local orchardist and orange grower. As was Mrs. Gleason, Mrs. Alice Stoneman was heavily involved in local causes but of a different political persuasion. At the home on
Mulberry, Mrs. Stoneman hosted weekly meetings for the Woman’s Civic League to study the Riverside City Charter—equivalent to Riverside’s local constitution—following its passage in 1907 and how women could be as involved in local politics as men. The chapter’s president was Mrs. Sadie Dexter and Mrs. Stoneman was the secretary. The discussion of the Riverside City Charter was so popular that the league hosted three monthsworth of meetings on the topic. By 1914 Charles had died and Alice lived in the home for the
subsequent three years before selling the home to
Elziver was the superintendent of the Riverside Highland Water Company and an orange grower. The couple raised two daughters in the home, Helen and Ruth. Helen went on to be a music teacher at the Riverside Boy’s High School. They, in turn, sold the home in 1923 to Rufus and Louisa Brown who were also orange growers. The Browns and subsequently their widowed daughter, Joette McLaughlin, lived in the home for nearly twenty
Elziver O. Rickard and his wife Mineah.
years and during that time had a series of unfortunate events including a kitchen fire which destroyed the original kitchen and a gaggle of teenage boys who broke into the house to “investigate if it was haunted,” according to a Riverside Police Department report from March 2, 1939. McLaughlin accused the boys of “malicious mischief” and locked them inside the home until the police arrived when Officer Joe Mendez lectured the boys on breaking and entering but declined to take them into custody.
From 1942 to 1970 owners and renters of the home changed frequently with everyone from a city street light installer to a county truck driver to a nurse occupying the residence. This was also a challenging time for the neighborhood which experienced the fleeing and blight of downtowns following World War II. Large homes along Mulberry were sliced and diced into duplexes
Classical Revival, and Craftsman architectural styles in a confined area. Its buildings exhibit the highest percentage of nineteenth century architecture of any neighborhood in Riverside.
In 2003, Thomas and Sandee Aguna purchased the house after years of neglect and disrepair. Over the course of the next two decades they completed multiple renovations including the replacement of the front porch, restoring the staircase and hardwood floors along with countless landscaping projects to pay homage to the lush landscaping that once surrounded the home since its inception over 130 years ago. The interior has many Victorian style furnishings and features such as embossed wallcoverings, chandeliers with plaster medallions, and wavy-glass wood windows. This portion of Mulberry Street boasts multiple colorful Victorina-style homes—a Riverside version of the Painted Ladies.
and triplexes—both altering the physical integrity of the structures and altering the social connectedness of the neighborhood with revolving doors of tenants.
This neighborhood became the Heritage Square Historic District in 1988 and is roughly bounded by First Street to the north, Fifth Street to the south, the 91 Freeway to the east, and Orange Street to the west. It includes a total of 223 buildings. Of these buildings 187 are considered contributors to the district, meaning they are historically significant to the time period and character of the area. The district was established for its significance to some of the earliest residential development in Riverside. It reflects the variety of residential styles popular in the area from the 1880s to the 1920s, including excellent examples of Victorian Stick, Shingle, Eastlake, Mission Revival,
Each Christmas, the Agunas ensure practically every inch of their home is dressed for the season. Many holiday parties and Riverside fundraisers for the Old Riverside Foundation were held in this home, especially during this time of year to showcase Sandee’s interior designing talents. The home being a space for community building for everything from the Women’s Civic League in 1911 to historic preservation causes in 2011 seems to be quite literally built into the walls of this Mulberry Street Victorian.
While there may be no partridge in a pear tree—perhaps truer to form would be a racoon in an orange tree—there is no greater indication you’re in Riverside in December than the twinkling lights and big red bows adorning 100-year-old Victorian, Craftsman and Mission-style homes—or hotels—throughout streets named by number, citrus, or tree. This Christmas wonderland on Mulberry Street is no different.
RIVERSIDE LOCAL BREWERY GUIDE
WORDS: MANO MIRANDÉ PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER
Many Riverside locals share fond memories of the Riverside Brewing Company (RBC) during the late 90’s and early 2000’s. The first of its kind, RBC paved the way for other local breweries to follow before closing its doors around 2006. In recent years, Riverside has witnessed a renaissance in craft brewing with the emergence of several independent breweries and taprooms. While each provides their own unique atmosphere and recipes, the one thing they all have in common is sharing their love of craft brewing with their guests.
Located in an industrial complex behind the Riverside Airport, Packing House opened in 2010 by a group of local home-brewers and business partners after their initial idea to open a high-end bottle shop was shut down by the city.
Their debut release, “Riley’s Irish Red,” formulated by co-founder Don Mcallister, was well-received and won a medal at a national brewing competition. By 2013, they expanded into the adjoining business and continued to receive praise for core beers like their “Belltower Blonde” and silver-medal award winning “Nighthawk
Rye Pale Ale.” In addition to these longtime favorites, they also feature a wide variety of seasonal releases from lagers and stouts to seltzers.
Since they began, Packing House has supported local music with an eclectic mix of live bands every weekend from jazz and blues to punk rock, as well as guest food trucks, games, and a fun, family-friendly environment. As 2025 marks their fifteen-year anniversary, they’ve withstood the test of time as Riverside’s longest running local brewery and plan to celebrate many more years to come.
brewery. “Medusa has two sisters, and one of them is named Euryale, so we went with that instead,” explained Carrie. Properly pronounced (Your-Aley), to avoid confusion, they adapted the pronunciation (Your-Ale). “Like our beer is your ale”, she added with a laugh.
With sixteen beers on tap, brewer Don Miller is not afraid to experiment with the ingredients he uses to develop recipes like the “Pollux Glazed Donut Ale,” “Prometheus Hatch Chili IPA,” and 2019 LA International Silver Medal Winner, “Halia Sour Cherry Gose.”
Originally named “Medusa Head Brewery,” co-owners Don and Carrie Miller were unable to trademark the name due its likeness to an existing
Opened in 2015, the theme of Greek mythology can be seen throughout the brewery’s interior, as well as the names of their beers and the impressive artwork featured on their labels. The “Persephone Tropical Blonde Ale” is their current number one seller and other popular favorites include the “Daphne Watermelon Wheat” and “Iota IPA.”
Euryale offers a variety of activities and entertainment on weekends such as karaoke, comedy, a monthly paint ‘n’ sip, and various guest food trucks. It’s no wonder why the atmosphere, aesthetic, and quality of brews Euryale has to offer has provided continued success for nearly a decade.
Owner Tim Ryan
Owner Carrie Miller
Route 30 co-founders, Eric Brummel and Tom Creely, started brewing beers in Eric’s mom’s garage when they were only twenty-two years old. Neither could have imagined that their hobby would evolve into a successful business with two locations in their hometown of Riverside. They chose the name for their love of classic cars and a representation of their diverse brewing style, as Eric said, “We brew across the board, so just like Highway Route 30, our beers are coast to coast.”
Their first location opened on January 1, 2016, in the same space previously home to Thompson Brewing on Indiana and Harrison. In 2019, they opened their second location with a taproom on University Avenue in downtown Riverside. In November 2023, they moved their primary operation into the space previously home to Wick’s Brewing on Sterling Avenue in La Sierra.
“It’s a common misconception that we took over Wick’s,” Eric explained. “That’s not
correct. We just bought their equipment, but we’ve been a brewery for many years.”
Aside from Thompson, Route 30’s new location is the only other local brewery with an in-house kitchen. Although they never intended on becoming a restaurant, the quality of local favorites like their smash burger, chicken wings, and flatbreads are more than impressive.
Owner Eric Brummel
POINTS BREWING CO. 2023 Chicago Ave. Unit BB (951) 213–6258 @allpointsbrewingcompany
With lively background music and regulars known on a first-name basis, All Points Brewing provides a fun and friendly environment to all its guests. With 31 years of brewing experience, owner and Riverside native Don Mcallister is no stranger to the local brewing community. He co-founded Packing House and created their award-winning Riley’s Irish Red, named after his dog.
The name All Points and their compass rose logo represents Mcallister’s love for the outdoors, and Riverside’s proximity to destinations ideal for activities like camping, surfing, and snowboarding.
“Our tagline is, ‘Whatever your adventure, flavor beckons,’” he explained. “Even if you’re just relaxing by your pool, you know, sip a good beer.” Mcallister leased the space on Chicago Avenue in 2019, just before the pandemic and, despite the initial challenges of maintaining the location, he successfully opened its doors in March 2021. Although All Points is a smaller operation than some, it allows Mcallister to pay close attention and care for each recipe he brews on their eight in-house taps.
The “Foggy Noggin Double Hazy IPA” is their current best-seller. Packed with fruity,
NATION BREWING 9860 Indiana Ave. Unit 19 @carbonnationbrewing
Opened in September 2023 in the same space previously home to Route 30 and Thompson Brewing, Carbon Nation has quickly become a welcome and respected addition to the Riverside
juicy, and tropical aromas and flavors, it has a surprisingly smooth drinkability at 8.5% ABV. While there are several other popular favorites, I highly recommend paying All Points a visit to find out which one is yours.
Sixty-seven year-old owner, Ted Younglove, saw an opportunity to start a family business after he retired from his position as Dean of Math and Science at Chaffey College.
“My son’s a really good brewer, and my daughter does marketing and graphics”, he explained. “I wanted to create a space where people can come hang out and have fun, put up some art, and I thought, ‘You can do this.’”
Around 2011, Ted’s son, Andrew, took a Homebrewing course through UCR’s extension program taught by Don Mcallister and later graduated first in his class from the Assistant Brewer program at Cal Poly Pomona. Several years later, upon the advice of Euryale head brewer, Don Miller, Andrew entered his “Dreamland
Express Toasted Hemp Amber Ale” into a competition where he won first place.
As head brewer, Andrew has used his expertise to produce multiple core beers like their “Smudge Pot IPA,” “Baja Blasted Mexican Lager,” and “Steve Urquell Czech Pilsner,” all of which feature labels designed by his sister, Mary.
Carbon Nation also hosts regular community events like their “Puppies, Pizza, and Pints” dog rescue and “Art-on-Tap,” showcasing local artists. Ted Younglove and his family are proof that if you put your heart into something you love, anything is possible.
brewing community.
Owner Don Mcallister
Brewer Mayra Plazola and Owner Ted Younglove
attracted considerable attention not only for their exceptional beer selection, but the addition of a full-service kitchen. From wagyu smash burgers and smoked meats smothered in handmade sauces to Sunday brunch, the quality of their award-winning food is absolutely worth the visit.
“Everything here we built as a family,” Martha said with a proud smile. “They stained the floors with us, built the countertops and tables, helped install the fridges, literally everything we’ve done, the kids have been there with us.”
Originally located in a 700 sq. ft. building with a home-built brew system made from an old bed frame and only one beer on tap, Thompson Brewing has since expanded into a two-story space with twenty in-house beers on tap, an outdoor patio, and extensive food menu. Although they’ve been around since 2012, their 2017 expansion has
If there’s one word that captures the key to Thompson Brewing’s success, it’s family. Owners Brian and Martha Thompson met when they were only seventeen years old and married at eighteen. Prior to opening the brewery, they ran an internationally accredited K-12 home school, so their children, Isabelle and Corbin, have been with them every step of the way.
The expansion also included a high-volume, handmade brewing system built by Brian Thompson allowing them to produce a wide variety of nontraditional recipes including Belgian tripels, sours, and seltzers. “We like to teach people about beer,” Martha explained. “If you’re not sure what you’re in the mood for, we’re here to help figure out the right beer for you.”
Owners Brian and Martha Thompson with their son Corbin.
MUSEUM OF RIVERSIDE CELEBRATES
Christmas Open House Victorian FREE ENTRY
Sunday
December 8
Noon – 4:00 p.m.
Victorian Christmas Décor & Open House
December 8 | 12:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Heritage House
8193 Magnolia Avenue, Riverside, CA
Starting December 6, you can RSVP for a tour of Heritage House with our docents to take in the festive décor and embrace the holiday spirit. Then, on Sunday, December 8, 2024, from noon to 4 p.m., join us for our Victorian Christmas Open House where we’ll have live music, cider, cookies, Father Christmas, and period-inspired crafts. Bring your family and friends and celebrate the season with us!
Scan the QR code to book your free holiday tour through January 5, 2025!
Scan the QR Code for details on all 100 events
Winter Solstice Traditions
December 21 | 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Heritage House
8193 Magnolia Avenue, Riverside, CA
The longest night of the year is upon us! The winter solstice represents an important day for cultures all over the world, and the Museum of Riverside is celebrating in the gardens of Heritage House. Celebrate 100 years of the Museum of Riverside at our 100th event! Learn about diverse traditions with free, family-friendly crafts, activities, and more.
RoaringRiverside:Fashionsof the 1920s
On view through January 26, 2025
Heritage House
8193 Magnolia Avenue, Riverside, CA
Step back in time with a stunning collection of 1920s dresses that Riverside women wore throughout the decade!
Scan the QR code to book your free tour!
JULIAN
Historical Riverside
The Riversider | December 2024
MoR: The Force Awakens! The Museum of Riverside at 100
WORDS BY H. VINCENT MOSES, PHD
“As a center of learning, the Museum of Riverside interacts with the community to collect, preserve, explore, and interpret the cultural and natural history of Riverside and its region.”
– Mission Statement: Museum of Riverside
The Museum of Riverside turned 100 this year, established in 1924 as the Cornelius Earle Rumsey Indian Museum by the city. Mayor S. C. Evans, Jr., owner of the Riverside Land and Irrigating Company, loved Indian lore and native artifacts. The affable mayor spent a generous amount of time investigating regional Indigenous tribes, especially the history and customs of the Cahuilla, Serrano, and Luiseno peoples and their objects of everyday life, ceremonial practices, and sacred objects.
Wealthy Riverside orange grower Cornelius Earle Rumsey shared Evans’ passion, amassing during his short tenure in Riverside a significant
collection of indigenous baskets and assorted native artifacts and materials. In 1924, Rumsey’s widow offered the fabulous collection to the City of Riverside if Evans would assure her the city fathers would establish a museum to preserve, interpret, and display the materials. As one would imagine, the mayor did so with glee.
Across Mission Inn Avenue from The Cheech, things around the Museum of Riverside’s neoclassical building are quiet these days. The brickand-mortar home of the Museum of Riverside (MoR) has been shuttered since 2017 in planning for a long-awaited renovation and expansion. This is a vital move in the museum's life and
Opening, Cornelius Earle Rumsey Indian Museum,basement, City Hall, December 12, 1924. Inscription at the top of the image by Mayor S. C. Evans, Jr., who facilitated the donation of the Rumsey collection to establish the museum.
Rumsey’s Navajo rugs adorning the floor are now accessioned artifacts and appropriately housed.
significant to Riverside's future.
A department of the City of Riverside since its founding in 1924, MoR “stewards an extensive collection of artifacts, natural history specimens, and archival materials,” along with “four historic sites (the National Register Museum building, the National Register Heritage House, the National Historic Landmark Harada House, and Robinson House).” The Museum Department ensures that the collections and historic sites remain centers of the Inland Empire’s history, cultural history, and natural history.
Years in the making, the ensuing expansion and grand reopening are eagerly awaited by the
The Old Lion Roars Anew
Photo courtesy of MoR.
Riverside Museum Associates and other supporters, and Riverside is ready for the force to reawaken. Dr. Robyn Petterson, MoR director, says everything is about to change. The Old Lion is about to resume as the City’s principal official museum. The City Council has allocated the requisite funds, and the architectural and construction documents are approved for take-off.
If, like me, you see the MoR as a heritage
dynamo of power, a driver of change and community building, its reopening portends important things for Riverside. As a premier example of a fantastic community museum, the expanded MoR will join the RAM-Cheech Marin Center of Chicano Art and Culture and the Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern California as an anchor downtown. This MoR community-building enterprise, as it has in the past, aims to improve people’s lives and make
them better citizens and neighbors, as it has done over the past century.
Moses Leads to Mundy Morning , 19792017 (BT)
I learned this truth about the museum quickly upon joining the Riverside Municipal Museum (RMM), now MoR, in 1979 as Curator of History, out of the doctoral program in History at UCR. The new Latino director molded the young staff into a tight-knit team. We learned to see the RMM as an engine of change and community engagement. He pushed us to interact with the community and to turn out in quick succession new exhibitions oriented around the museum’s collection of native cultures, local history, and natural history of the region.
My successor, Sarah Mundy, and I moved the RMM from a place of permanent exhibitions to a dynamo of community involvement and inclusion. We welcomed the voice of the voiceless and traditionally omitted minority communities of color. The museum became more than an ode to the up-and-in, though we continued our interpretation of the movers and shakers of our region. That outreach to the broader community and the story of the navel orange enterprise became my passion throughout the 1980s and 90s.
MoR as Community Builder and Incubator I can look back to 1979 with gratitude that the team we built made the museum much more than
Old Post Office building, home of MoR since 1948. The renamed Riverside Municipal Museum assumed control of the entire building in 1966, courtesy of MoR: E. N. Fairchild photo, A760-196.
Taxidermy mountain lion on display at the Center for Social Justice and Civil Liberties, “Dear Riverside” exhibition for the 100 th Anniversary of the MoR. Photo courtesy of MoR.
Historical Riverside
The Riversider | December 2024
a repository of the past. RMM (MoR) has become a dynamic engine of community building, drawing together the region's diverse cultural and scientific communities around shared experiences and
evidence. It is a lighthouse in the storm, offering historical, environmental, and cultural perspectives against which to measure the tensions of the immediate present.
We made it an incubator for new ideas and cultural amenities, including significant assistance with locating and planning the California Citrus State Historic Park (1981-93), negotiating the transfer of the Harada House National Historic Landmark (2003) to the City, co-founding Riverside’s Dia de los Muertos with Cosme Cordova (2003), seed planter for The Cheech with the first Cheech art show at the RMM (MoR) in 2003, and finally cradle for the rise of the Civil Rights Institute of Southern California through our work with Rose Mayes and the Riverside /African American Historical Society starting in 1985, among other collaborative feats with native peoples, Latinos, and Asian communities. Dr. Peterson and her staff are dedicated to continuing and improving the work in 21st-century MoR facilities.
The MoR collections now include an estimated 200,000 artifacts and specimens, including 2,500 linear feet of archives in the disciplines of history, natural history, and Indigenous cultural resources that document the growth and development of Riverside and the surrounding areas from before its founding as a human settlement to the present. These collections
include a notable Native American basketry collection; archival collections documenting the two National Historic Landmarks of Riverside (the Mission Inn and Harada House); the nationally respected Clark Herbarium of mounted botanical specimens; artifacts and equipment representing Riverside's citrus industry in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries; and archaeological material from Riverside's Chinatown. The collections also exhibit additional strengths in geology, entomology, and textiles. These materials will enable the MoR to undertake important programs and exhibitions in the new facilities. Additional museum interpretation and programs proceed during primary museum closure and will be further developed and enhanced at the National Register Heritage House and the National Historic Landmark Harada House. Heritage House, an 1891 Queen Anne-style Victorian-era home, has served since 1977 as a Victorian house museum representing life in Riverside in the 1890s, the heyday of Riverside's citrus industry. Harada House is among California's most significant and influential civil rights landmarks. It is the site and story of the Harada family.
Conclusion: Waking the Force
Yes, MoR has been a force for good for one hundred years. During those one hundred years, MoR
Nuestros Antepasados (Our Ancestors) exhibition title wall, c1996-97. As part of the museum’s local Latino initiative, this exhibition drew large crowds around the IE. Professor Vickie Ruiz brought her class from Arizona State University to review the show and pronounced it the best Mexican American history exhibition she had seen. Photo courtesy of MoR. MIDDLE LEFT: Nuestros Antepasados case, “Mujeres Trabajondo” (Women Working0, c1996-97. Photo courtesy of MoR. BOTTOM LEFT: Westward to Canaan: Rise of Riverside’s African American Community, 1880-1950, “Johnson Carriage Company” case, c1996.
became an accredited museum and a Smithsonian Affiliate Museum. Now, under the leadership of Dr. Robyn Peterson, MoR is undertaking its most significant renovation and expansion since 1966, when the Riverside Municipal Museum, MoR’s forerunner, took over the entire old Post Office building at its current location. During the 1980s
and 90’s, at least eight studies were conducted to investigate an appropriate expansion project for the museum. The Riverside City Council acted upon none until recently. Now the plane is about to take off!
Let’s welcome this emerging Monarch Butterfly and give her plenty of nectar to feed
on so that she can grow vital for her flight into Riverside’s 21st century. We need her to help raise the next generation of young citizens, and Riverside needs its dynamic brick-and-mortar community museum to roar again for the next one hundred years!
Two views of MoR expansion plans, work on which will begin in early 2025. Images courtesy of Dr. Robyn Peterson, MoR.
The Riversider | December 2024
Riverside’s Armory at Fairmount Park
In the post-World War II era, the American military had a resurgence of armory building construction. Armories were typically large, utilitarian structures with a prominent central drill hall, often featuring a substantial indoor space for military training, storage for weapons and ammunition, offices, reflecting the need for largescale military drills and a focus on preparedness during the Cold War era. Many were renovated or newly constructed to accommodate modern military needs and were often simultaneously used for events as large community centers.
Riverside armories date back to the 1890s with the first local armory at Main and Sixth Streets
and four subsequent iterations in various downtown locations. Riverside’s journey to completion of a post-war armory is a twisted tale of over twelve years of false hopes.
The story begins on Tuesday June 8, 1948, at a city council meeting. The Council—following a request for land by National Guard Captain Roy Ashbrook—pledged its support to lead a campaign to secure a building site for a National Guard armory. The building of the facility would be supported by the state’s new $5,000,000 fund for armory buildings. In a Riverside Daily Press article from the day, Ashbrook stated that before funds could be secured for the building, he needed to
A rendering of what the
will look like after renovations.
have a site to show to the state. In an exchange during the Council meeting, Mayor Walter C. Davison explained that under the state constitution, the city was not permitted to donate land to the cause but could lead a civic campaign to secure funds to buy a site.
Time was of the essence as the state funding for such armories were on a first-come, first-serve basis and the cities of San Bernardino and Colton had already broken ground on their own projects. Similar to the plans of these armories, Riverside’s armory would be open to community uses at night when it was not in use by the National Guard.
A month later in July 1948, the city council asked City Attorney Miguel Estudillo if there was a legal path in the California constitution to gift city land to build an armory. This came after Captain Ashbrook made his second plea to the
WORDS: PHILIP FALCONE
PHOTOS: JULIAN JOLLIFFE
Armory
Congressman Mark Takano and Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson
council to hasten their exploratory work following the stalling of their civic campaign and as other cities were quickly snatching up monies to build their own armories. City Attorney Estudillo stated the city could author a long-term lease of the land if approved by the voters or donate the land to the cause if the deed made a reservation that the land and building would belong to the city upon sunset of the lease.
By the end of 1948 still no forward movement was achieved between the city council and the National Guard. Eleven other local cities had since secured funding from the state for their respective construction. Councilmember Rawlings then revived the campaign for the armory and pledged that he had a path forward despite previous legal hurdles—little did he know what challenges still awaited.
Nearly a year later, on November 22, 1949, the city council executed a lease to the state for forty-nine years for three acres of land in the Tequesquite Arroyo west of Magnolia Avenue and adjacent to Samuel C. Evans Sports Complex. The armory completion date was set for late 1950.
Plans took another disappointing turn when in April 1950, the state reneged on the deal due to not wishing to lease land but own it outright instead. For the next two years negotiations went back and forth, government monies were allocated then redirected.
Finally in mid-1953 the state legislature approved funding for an armory in Riverside. The city council restarted the search for sites in addition to the previous location in the Tequesquite Arroyo. Three other locations were studied—a northwest section of Fairmount Park, the “old fairgrounds” near the Santa Ana River at Crestmore Avenue, and Cutter Park north of Riverside City College (then Polytechnic High School).
The land at Cutter Park was later determined to be too encumbered as it was donated to the city to be used only for recreation and not buildings or stadiums. The city council in late 1953 moved forward with deeding the old fairgrounds land to the state for a second turn at securing land for an armory—only for this land to be plagued with complexities such as water easements running through the center and encroaching highway expansion plans.
New hope came in January 1955 when the Parks Commission, the city council and the state all approved a “third time’s the charm” site at the northwest corner of Fairmount Park by the train locomotive. The next hurdle was with the city charter which prohibited leasing of land for longer than five years without voter approval.
In the April 12, 1955, municipal election four ballot measures were listed: a bond for the construction of a new police headquarters, a bond for the construction a of a new fire department headquarters, a measure to expand the Planning Commission from seven to nine members, and a measure to lease land in Fairmount Park to the National Guard for 99 years. All four measures were approved by the voters of Riverside. Pursuant to this approval, the city provided the land with state and federal funds covering the construction cost. Following government economic woes, another three and a half years dragged on—leading to September 1958—before the necessary funds were made available.
At last, in May 1959 Fellows & Associates of Los Angeles were awarded the bid to construct the $220,000, 12,000 square foot reinforced concrete building with a drill floor equipped for basketball, badminton, and indoor tennis, classrooms, kitchen, restrooms, and locker rooms. The National Guard began occupying the armory on June 5, 1960, with the building dedication ceremony on November 5, 1960.
For the subsequent three decades the armory was utilized by the National Guard and other military uses with community events like rose shows, citrus fairs, school dances, and art exhibits in between. In the 1990s, the lease agreement was cut short due to deaccessioning of armories across the country by the federal government. It then returned to City of Riverside ownership where it was used for storage for the next twentyfive years.
Today, a new vision is underway for this building at the entry point to Fairmount Park. Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson is the champion who rallied support to reimagine this space and return it to community usage. Earlier this year the armory was cleared of storage uses, cleaned up, and began a trial run of hosting community boxing matches which were a great success. Federal funding secured by Congressman Mark Takano will assist with necessary renovations to the facility. And currently, a request for proposals is out to the development community to see how this building could be transformed—a trendy food hall, a tasteful brewery, an indoor sports center, a music venue—who knows what ideas will come back!
As an homage to the years-long fight to secure Riverside’s armory in Fairmount Park during the 1940s and 50s, the future return of this facility to the community will prove it was a fight worth waging.
The Armory hosted community boxing events over the summer.
Dining: Downtown
Craftz Lounge
WORDS: ALONDRA FIGUEROA
PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER
Located on Mission Inn Avenue between Main and Market Streets, you can find the beautifully renovated space that now houses Craftz Lounge, a remarkable eatery and bar that will have you bringing your friends in to eat, drink, and be merry during this holiday season and all year long!
We were happy to sit down with Executive Chef Alejandro Leon, a.k.a. Leon, about his new culinary adventure with owner Luis Zarraga to bring something a bit more fancy and definitely different to Riverside. Originally from Carlsbad, both men were excited about sharing their experience with coastal cuisine as well as the upscale vibe they cultivated while working at fine dining establishments in San Diego.
Chef Leon shared a variety of dishes with us and we were thrilled to try them all. The chilaquiles featured on the brunch menu were different and delicious! They appear to be standard style, but they are so much more. They use house-made ricotta cheese, pickled fresno chiles, and sliced shallots, which I love, and a fabulous almond salsa that was excellent. You also get your choice of eggs any style; I got mine fried. If you are vegetarian, this could be a great option for you without the eggs. We started with the pesto chicken sandwich which consists of a grilled chicken breast topped with mozzarella cheese, heirloom tomatoes, fresh cucumber, and spinach piled high all on parmesan crusted sourdough. Served with some of the best fries that were so crispy and flavorful, I couldn’t stop eating them!
We then tried a very unique dinner entree found in the chef’s choice section of the menu. The grilled chicken breast, which is covered in a lovely pumpkin mole, served alongside broccolini and golden beets made with compound sage butter. All this is plated on top of some of the creamiest polenta you will ever have. This dish has complex flavors that work wonderfully together to give you such a distinct way to enjoy mole! I’m normally not a huge fan, but this was different, very flavorful, not overwhelming. The polenta was so good; it’s classic comfort food that isn’t the typical mashed potatoes, and I loved it!
The absolute king of the entrees we tried was the perfectly pan seared filet mignon. It was served on top of crushed potatoes and charred broccolini drizzled with their freshly made cilantro
chimichurri, which for this Argentine absolutely sealed the deal. I was in heaven and will be back for that exact dish time and time again!
Chef Leon shared that they recently unveiled their Festival of Lights menu for the holiday season featuring all sorts of new items, so be sure to swing by and check them out! Of these new items, you can expect their in-house made focaccia pesto pizza. The focaccia bread takes 27 hours to make, and it is awesome!
Everything is made in-house here and it makes all the difference in the world, including their sauces, bread, and even syrups for their specialty cocktails made by mixologist, Megan Isaacs. You can tell that everything served is made with great care and skill that truly takes you on a culinary climb towards the fine dining experience.
Speaking of cocktails, we were lucky to try some of Megan’s specialty craft creations such as the Perfect Match, which features vodka, homemade matcha syrup, ginger, lemon, and cucumber. This drink was so refreshingly yummy and brightly colored, it was almost mesmerizing. We also sampled the Southern Belle made with bourbon, orgeat, lemon, blueberry, and mint. Wow! What a fun drink and, while strong, it was still very tasty. The Sugar and Spice was my favorite and featured 1800 Reposado, bouchant, orange liqueur, jalapeno syrup, lime, hibiscus, and a tajin rim. Such a stellar treat, and I love that they don’t skimp on the booze!
Monday through Friday they feature lunch, on Wednesday through Saturday they add in their dinner menu, and on Saturday and Sunday they do a great brunch. Craftz Lounge has many
opportunities for you to visit and check out their varied menu. You won’t regret it, and we think you’ll be back for more of their unique ambiance, that gorgeous bar with their brilliantly crafted cocktails, and, of course, their delicious food that will give you something to talk about and leave you wanting more.
The Riversider | December 2024
Chilaquiles
Pumpkin Mole Chicken
(L-R): Sugar & Spice, Perfect Match and Southern Belle.
Filet Mignon
Bar & Restaurant Guide
Riversider | December 2024
AMERICAN (NEW)
Bushfire Kitchen
5225 Canyon Crest Dr Ste 92 (951) 534-0697
Pixels Bar And Eatery 3535 University Ave (951) 683-7957
ProAbition Whiskey Lounge & Kitchen
3597 Main St (951) 222-2110
The Rustik Fork Eatery 1355 E Alessandro Blvd Ste 101 (951) 656-3555
The Salted Pig
3750 Main St Ste 103 (951) 742-5664
Yard House
3775 Tyler St (951) 688-9273
BAKERIES/DONUTS
American Donuts
3355 Iowa Ave (951) 329-3238
Baguette Bakery & Café
767 W Blaine St B (951) 788-5300
Baker’s Dozen Donuts
6100 Magnolia Ave (951) 369-0198
Beignet Spot
4019 Market St (951) 224-9830
Better-Be Donuts Café 1015 E Alessandro Blvd (951) 653-0166
Cakebox
3557 Main St A (951) 660-4179
Casey’s Cupcakes
3649 Mission Inn Ave (951) 328-6908
Chela’s Panadería 4022 Park Ave (951) 680-9983
Christy’s Donuts 8151 Arlington Ave (951) 977-8166
Cookie Co. Riverside 195 E Alessandro Blvd (951) 521-0846
Cupcakes & Curiosities
3569 Main St (951) 452-6271
Delicias del Horno Bakery
3969 Chicago Ave (951) 456-9448
Donut Cravings 7132 Van Buren Blvd (951) 789-8324
Donut Tyme
5225 Canyon Crest Dr (951) 788-5043
Donut Queen 5501 Mission Blvd (951) 369-8797
Dunkin’ Donuts 18641 Van Buren Blvd (951) 384-2882
Dunkin’ Donuts
4922 La Sierra Ave (951) 777-8377
Freshh Donuts 781 W Blaine St (951) 682-5648
P.S. I Crepe You 6095 Magnolia Ave (951) 742-5167
Isabella’s Cupcakes & More
5225 Canyon Crest Dr #28 (951) 782-9200
Linda’s Donuts
3950 Pierce St (951) 351-8288
Lindmair Bakery 9230 Magnolia Ave (951) 688-2131
Lola’s Bakery
4026 Chicago Ave (951) 683-1219
Miss Donuts & Bagel
3962 University Ave (951) 787-0193
Mochi Lion 1242 University Ave (951) 534-0756
Mr. Blue’s Donuts
19009 Van Buren Blvd Ste 123 (951) 780-3188
Nothing Bundt Cakes
3639 Riverside Plaza Dr #502 (951) 787-1885
Ochoa’s Mexican Bakery
10330 Arlington Ave #3 (951) 359-8128
Ortiz Bakery
421 Iowa Ave #A (951) 787-9138
Pepe’s Panaderia
3511 Madison St (951) 353-8801
Rainbow Donuts
3758 La Sierra Ave (951) 688-7889
Randy's Donuts
3519 Van Buren Blvd (951) 588-5678
Riverside Cookie Shoppe
6737 Brockton Ave (951) 686-6374
Simple Simon’s
Bakery & Bistro
3639 Main St (951) 369-6030
Star Donut
5145 Jurupa Ave #H (951) 530-8006
Steve’s Donuts
7201 Arlington Ave Ste C (951) 323-7153
Uncle Chuang’s Bakery
3740 Iowa Ave #109 (951) 275-8800
Urban Dripp
3750 University Ave #175 (951) 742-5949
US Donuts
4786 La Sierra Ave (951) 352-1893
3720 Sunnyside Dr (951) 823-0797
Winchell’s Donut House 1705 University Ave (951) 682-8834
Woodcrest Donuts
19510 Van Buren Blvd Ste F7 (951) 653-5054
Yvette’s Bakery
6729 Indiana Ave (951) 742-5541
Yum Yum Donuts
3247 Arlington Ave (951) 683-5489
BAR & GRILLS
Art’s Bar & Grill
3357 University Ave (951) 683-9520
Duke’s Bar & Grill
3221 Iowa Ave (951) 248-1143
Events Sports Grill
10560 Magnolia Ave #A (951) 352-2693
Fire Up Grill
3750 University Ave (951) 289-9071
Flat Top Bar & Grill
17960 Van Buren Blvd (951) 780-0114
Craftz Lounge
3720 Mission Inn Ave (951) 717-9038
Joe’s Bar & Grill
10909 Magnolia Ave (951) 637-3931
Law’s Restaurant
9640 Indiana Ave (951) 354-7021
Shooters Sports & Grill 10226 Indiana Ave (951) 785-9588
Sire Restaurant 6440 Magnolia Ave (951) 683-7473
BARS/LOUNGES
Downtown Experiment 3601 University Ave (951) 355-2606
Lake Alice Trading Co 3616 University Ave (951) 686-7343
Locals Public House 285 E Alessandro Blvd (951) 780-1800
Mezcal Ultra Lounge 3737 Main St Ste 100 (951) 333-8558
The Brickwood 3653 Main St (951) 352-2739
The Lobby 3730 Main St (951) 742-5020
The Menagerie 3581 University Ave (951) 788-8000
The Presidential Lounge 3649 Mission Inn Ave (951) 784-0300
VIP Nightclub & Restaurant 3673 Merrill Ave (951) 784-2370
W. Wolfskill 4281 Main St (951) 374-1176
BBQ
Charley Rokk’s Authentic Texas BBQ 5145 Jurupa Ave (951) 774-0039
Cowboy Burgers & BBQ 5573 Arlington Ave (951) 977-9454
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit 3540 Riverside Plaza Dr Ste 314 (951) 683-9700
Gram’s BBQ 3527 Main St (951) 782-8219
Messi Soul Kitchen 4270 Riverwalk Pkwy #104 (951) 588-6252
Mongolian BBQ 1242 University Ave STE 7 (951) 686-0702
Smoke & Fire Social Eatery
5225 Canyon Crest Dr #9 (909) 542-9054
Spirit of Texas BBQ 3965 Market St (951) 462-1117
Stagecoach 3775 Tyler St. Unit B (951) 602-1940
BREAKFAST DINERS & CAFES
Amy’s 10635 Magnolia Ave (951) 689-0296
Brandon’s Diner 10246 Indiana Ave Ste A (951) 359-3617
Brandon’s Diner 9646 Magnolia Ave (951) 637-2782
Buenos Dias Cafe 2790 14th St (951) 405-8031
Cafe Le Reve 141 E Alessandro Blvd Ste 10A (951) 215-0007
Crest Cafe 5225 Canyon Crest Dr Ste 40 (951) 784-2233
Daily Brew Coffee House 2955 Van Buren Blvd (951) 352-7477
Flo’s Farmhouse Cafe 5620 Van Buren Blvd (951) 352-2690
Joanna’s Cafe 17950 Van Buren Blvd (951) 789-8843
Kountry Folks 3653 La Sierra Ave (951) 354-0437
Soup Shoppe 6712 Magnolia Ave (951) 781-4710
The Riverside Airport Cafe 6951 Flight Rd (951) 688-3337
Rodeo Cafe 17136 Van Buren Blvd (951) 780-0388
BREWERIES
All Points Brewing Co. 2023 Chicago Ave Unit B8 (951) 213-6258
Carbon Nation Brewing 9860 Indiana Ave, Unit 19
Euryale Brewing Company 2060 Chicago Ave Ste A-17 (951) 530-8865
Hangar 24
5225 Canyon Crest Dr Unit 58 (951) 213-4777
Packinghouse Brewing Company
6421 Central Ave Ste 101-A (951) 333-9261
Route 30 Brewing Company
9860 Indiana Ave Ste 19 (951) 776-7083
Route 30 Tap Room 3740 Mission Inn Ave
Thompson Brewing 9900 Indiana Ave (951) 289-7533
BURGERS
Baker’s Drive Thru 2221 Main St (909) 884-5233
Baker’s Drive Thru
6686 Indiana Ave (909) 884-5233
Baker’s Drive Thru 1300 Blaine St (909) 884-5233
Baker’s Drive Thru 10225 Magnolia Ave (909) 884-5233
Baker’s Drive Thru
5396 Mission Blvd (909) 884-5233
Boys Burgers
10737 Magnolia Ave (951) 689-1294
Burger Boss
2585 Canyon Springs Pkwy (951) 656-6500
BurgerIM
10920 Magnolia Ave Unit 105 (951) 441-8868
Chris’ Burgers
407 Iowa Ave (951) 781-8542
Cowboy Burgers & BBQ 5573 Arlington Ave (951) 977-9454
Dairy Queen
8610 California Ave, Suite 101 (951) 343-4075
Farmer Boys
3400 University Ave (951) 680-0900
Farmer Boys
2901 Iowa Ave (951) 782-9003
Farmer Boys
3303 Madison St (951) 351-9700
George’s Drive-In
9910 Magnolia Ave (951) 688-2471
Johnny’s Burgers
4825 La Sierra Ave (951) 688-1000
Johnny’s Burgers
3394 Madison St (951) 687-3599
Mission Burgers
4606 Pine St (951) 682-7272
MGM Burgers 1691 Main St (951) 276-1744
Monty’s Good Burger 3605 Market Street (213) 915-0257
Nikko’s Burgers
9295 Magnolia Ave STE 112 (951) 352-7290
Original Tommy’s 7504 Mission Grove Pkwy S (951) 780-4201
R Burgers
5980 Van Buren Blvd (951) 358-9203
R Burgers 1666 University Ave (951) 784-4350
Urban Skillet 1223 University Ave, Ste 150 (951) 213-1760
Smash Papas 3605 Market St
Star Burgers 7207 Arlington Ave (951) 689-5050
Zorba’s Restaurant 450 Iowa Ave (951) 686-5830
Zorba’s Express 770 University Ave (951) 787-0094
CHINESE
Big Sky Bistro 1575 University Ave Ste A (951) 328-1688
Canton Chinese Food 1756 University Ave (951) 684-6126
Chen Ling Palace
9856 Magnolia Ave (951) 351-8511
Chinatown 10935 Magnolia Ave (951) 785-6197
Greedy Cat 1400 University Ave Ste 108 (909) 655-7235
HK BBQ House 3740 Iowa Ave #102 (951) 777-1368
Ho Choy’s
10352 Arlington Ave (951) 785-1188
Ho Ho 3511 Madison St (951) 637-2411
Hong Kong Fastfood 1490 University Ave (951) 686-2223
Jade China 2712 Canyon Springs Pkwy (951) 653-9200
Little Beijing
Chinese Fast Food
5800 Van Buren Blvd (951) 509-1188
Lucky Wok 2995 Van Buren Blvd (951) 688-2888
Master Gan 1299 Galleria at Tyler
Monark Asian Bistro
5225 Canyon Crest Dr #64 (951) 683-1073
Mythos Chef 18187 Van Buren Blvd (949) 805-2223
Mr. China Express 8451 Colorado Ave #8301 (951) 687-8967
Mr. You
19530 Van Buren Blvd G7 (951) 653-1740
Peking Restaurant 11170 Magnolia Ave (951) 687-4822
Olivia's HB Cafe 3940 University Ave (951) 534-0984
Wok In Kitchen
5050 Arlington Ave #101 (951) 343-7888
COFFEE/TEA/JUICE
7 Leaves Cafe
1201 University Ave Ste 101 (951) 530-8666
Arcade Downtown 3870 Main Street (951) 266-6839
Arcade Coffee Roasters
3672 Chicago Ave Ste A (951) 266-6839
Arcade Coffee Roasters
5225 Canyon Crest Dr. Ste 17A (951) 266-6839
Back to the Grind
3575 University Ave (951) 784-0800
Boba Fiend Tea House
3375 Iowa Ave (951) 823-0700
Bobaloca
19009 Van Buren Blvd (951) 789-8646
Bolcupop 3605 Market Street (951) 595-4513
The California Lounge
3649 Mission Inn Ave (951) 784-0300
Coffee Court Bistro 3607 10th St (951) 328-0866
Coffeecito House 3882 12th St (951) 405-4599
Condron Coffee
3696 Sunnyside Dr (951) 880-3354
Crave Coffee & Tea 3590 Central Ave (951) 289-9436
Daily Brew Coffee House
2955 Van Buren Blvd (951) 352-7477
Ding Tea 1575 University Ave Ste E (951) 429-9706
Flavor Theory 11090 Magnolia Ave (951) 977-9698
Goodwin’s Organics Cafe 191 W Big Springs Rd (951) 682-2667
JUJUBAR
19040 Van Buren Blvd (951) 780-0224
Kung Fu Tea 3678 Central Ave Ste 102 (951) 254-9609
Kraemer’s Coffee Bistro 6734 Brockton Ave (951) 686-4400
Lift Coffee Roasters 2060 Chicago Ave Ste A10 (951) 742-7413
Molinos Coffee 3660 Mission Inn Ave (951) 276-7147
Mundial Coffee 1725 Spruce St (951) 777-1225
Nekter Juice Bar 5225 Canyon Crest Dr Ste 7B (951) 224-9842
R&B Tea
1889 University Ave Unit 105 (951) 462-4142
Sharetea 10920 Magnolia Ave Ste 103 (951) 406-5165
TRA Boba & Snack
3740 Iowa Ave Ste 103 (951) 530-8536
Tastea 11130 Magnolia Ave Unit C (951) 588-8138
Tim Boba 1450 University Ave Ste N (951) 462-1929
Toasted 6160 Arlington Ave Ste C9 (951) 977-9847
Twee Coffee 9344 Magnolia Ave (951) 335-0599
Krak Boba 3907 Chicago Ave Ste B (951) 742-5341
DELI/SANDWICHES
Backstreet Restaurant 3735 Nelson St (951) 683-6650
Butch’s Grinders 4602 Pine St (951) 781-8511
Cheba Hut 3505 Market Street Ste 101 (951) 777-1117
Diane’s Deli 2900 Adams St #B1 (951) 689-2900
D’Elia’s Grinders 2093 University Ave (951) 683-7380
D’Elia’s Grinders 9009 Van Buren Blvd (951) 780-3354
European Intl Market &Deli 7120 Indiana Ave G (951) 274-9100
Firehouse Subs 10080 Magnolia Ave (951) 588-8785
Jimmy John’s 3747 Central Ave Ste 102 (951) 779-0010
Jimmy John’s 4270 Riverwalk Pkwy Ste 122 (951) 977-9672
Jimmy John’s 10277 Magnolia Ave (951) 354-2149
M & M Deli 1960 Chicago Ave #D1 (951) 684-6861
My Hero Subs 355 Iowa Ave A (951) 784-7370
RiverCrust Deli
6235 River Crest Dr Ste F (951) 656-8145
Subs & Spuds
5225 Canyon Crest Dr Ste #83a (951) 369-1491
Bar & Restaurant Guide
Riversider | December 2024
The Sub Station
3663 Canyon Crest Dr (951) 683-4523
Tummy Stuffer 1159 Iowa Ave O (951) 369-1266
The Upper Crust Sandwich Shoppe 3573 Main St (951) 784-3149
FILIPINO
Jefrox Adobo 2561 Grambling Way (951) 314-5075
Nanay Gloria 10959 Magnolia Ave (951) 977-8831
FRENCH
Le Chat Noir 3790 9th St (951) 786-9266
GERMAN
European International Market & Deli 7120 Indiana Ave G (951) 274-9100
HAWAIIAN
Kaua Hawaiian BBQ 10949 Magnolia Ave (951) 624-3900
Ohana Cravings 3740 Iowa Ave, Ste 104 (951) 742-5555
Ono Hawaiian BBQ 3531 Madison St (951) 351-0888
Ono Hawaiian BBQ
3540 Riverside Plaza Dr #324 (951) 328-1988
Ono Hawaiian BBQ
2721 Canyon Springs Pkwy #101 (951) 656-6188
Park Ave Polynesian Restaurant
4038 Park Ave (951) 344-1090
ICE CREAM/FROZEN YOGURT
Afters Ice Cream 1201 University Ave
Baskin-Robbins 7024 Magnolia Ave (951) 682-3131
Canyon Crest Ice Cream & Water
5225 Canyon Crest Dr #27 (951) 675-7385
Cherry On Top
3560 Riverside Plaza Dr (951) 213-6018
Cherry On Top 19009 Van Buren Blvd Ste 125 (951) 780-0800
Cold Stone Creamery 9867 Magnolia Ave Ste C (951) 637-0920
Dairy Queen 8610 California Ave, Ste 101 (951) 343-4075
Dairy Queen 6665 Magnolia Ave (951) 684-6280
Frostbites Crepes & Frozen Delights
10347 Magnolia Ave (951) 352-4903
La Michoacana 3961 Chicago Ave 951) 248-9142
Mixies Ice Cream & Cookies
3605 Market St (951) 595-4520
Toi Moi Italian Ice & Juice Shop 10181 Hole Ave (951) 343-4146
Yogurtland 1242 University Ave Ste A (951) 683-1950
Yogurtland 3510 Tyler St #104 (951) 772-0229
INDIAN
Bombay Stores 1385 W Blaine St (951) 788-3042
Cali Tardka 9212 Sunridge Drive (951) 376-0566
Gandhi Indian Cuisine 1355 E Alessandro Blvd #205 (951) 653-4147
India Sweets & Groceries
779 W Blaine St (951) 784-7400
Mantra Indian Cuisine 10359 Magnolia Ave (951) 417-4539
Namaste Indian Kitchen
6061 Magnolia Ave (951) 275-5316
Punjab Palace
Cuisine of India
1766 University Ave (951) 686-9968
ITALIAN/PIZZA
Aloha Pizza & Pasta
755 W Blaine St (951) 788-8830
Antone’s Italian Food 4125 Sunnyside Dr (951) 682-5900
Antonio Pizza
195 E Alessandro Blvd (951) 776-1888
Antonious Pizza Cafe 3737 Main St (951) 682-9100
Bella’s Pizza 5196 Arlington Ave (951) 351-3131
Blaze Pizza 3540 Riverside Plaza Dr (951) 789-3212
Blaze Pizza 10920 Magnolia Ave Suite 107 (951) 474-5855
Bricks & Birch 3605 Market Street #5 (951) 500-7776
Capone’s Pizza 7207 Arlington Ave F (951) 689-3520
Dave’s New York
Style Pizza 1490 University Ave #102 (951) 787-9900
DeMatteo’s Pizza 7030 Magnolia Ave (951) 682-6198
Dematteo’s Woodcrest 18590 Van Buren Boulevard (951) 429-7317
D’Caesaro Pizza & Italian 6160 Arlington Avenue C4 (951) 687-0777
Enzo’s Pizza 10170 Indiana Ave (951) 351-2375
Farfalla’s Cucina Italiana 5250 Arlington Ave (951) 354-5100
Dough Bros 5300 Arlington Ave (951) 977-9090
Dough Bros
1889 University Ave #108 (951) 781-3838
Fiesta Pizza 6110 Van Buren Blvd (951) 353-8007
Mamma Mia Restaurant and Bar 10971 Magnolia Ave (951) 729-5555
Marcello’s Pizza & Pasta 783 W Blaine St (951) 781-9996
Marcello’s Pizza & Pasta 6519 Clay St A (951) 681-9797
Mario’s Place 3646 Mission Inn Avenue (951) 684-7755
MOD Pizza 3444 Arlington Ave (951) 374-5255
New York Pizza Co 3570 Van Buren Blvd (951) 688-4000
The Old Spaghetti Factory 3191 Mission Inn Avenue (951) 784-4417
Papa Joe’s Pizza 5115 Jurupa Ave B3 (951) 680-9090
Papa Joe’s Pizza 10555 Indiana Ave (951) 688-1188
Pietro’s Italian Cuisine 6788 Brockton Ave (951) 784-1310
The Pizza Place 18955 Van Buren Blvd (951) 780-5588
Romano’s Chicago Pizzeria 285 Alessandro Blvd (951) 780-7399
Scratch Pizza 4950 La Sierra Ave #8 (951) 359-2023
Tower Pizza 3375 Iowa Ave (951) 518-4300
Tommy Salami's 17040 Van Buren Blvd (951) 780-6000
University Pizza Company 1201 University Ave #116 (951) 823-0630
Viano’s Restaurant 16810 Van Buren Blvd (951) 780-3000
JAPANESE/POKE RAMEN/SUSHI
AhiPoki
3540 Riverside Plaza Dr STE 310 (951) 530-8255
Amagi Sushi 19510 Van Buren Blvd Unit F6 (951) 656-8144
Big Tuna 4270 Riverwalk Pkwy (951) 343-0201
Fuego Hibachi 3750 Main St (951) 742-5039
Joe’s Sushi
Japanese Restaurant 9555 Magnolia Ave (951) 353-1929
Kotsu Ramen & Gyoza 3522 Madison St Ste 101 (951) 299-8889
The Lowkey Poke Joint 11860 Magnolia Ave (951) 299-7699
Mokkoji Shabu Shabu 1575 University Ave Ste B (951) 905-4007
Momo Sushi 9844 Magnolia Ave (951) 999-9123
Ohana Sushi 195 Alessandro Blvd Ste 8A (951) 789-0443
Oishii Sushi 6133 Magnolia Ave (951) 784-2550
Ooka Sushi & Hibachi Steak House 3525 Riverside Plaza Dr #200 (951) 779-0099
Otsuka Ramen & Bar 10949 Magnolia Ave (951) 353-9888
Poke Bistro 3375 Iowa Ave Ste K (951) 394-8580
Pokilicious Riverwalk 4290 Riverwalk Pkwy #306 (951) 376-1377
Ramen Okawari 3740 Iowa Ave #104 (951) 680-9411
Rohey’s Wok & Grill 4294 Riverwalk Pkwy (951) 359-5272
Saku Ramen 3643 Main St (951) 742-5849
Shabu Garden 11120 Magnolia Ave (951) 373-4727
Silverlake Ramen 3775 Tyler St (951) 934-9160
Soho Ramen Riverside 3605 Market St (951) 595-4528
Sushi Asahi
2955 Van Buren Blvd Suite #D2 (951) 637-1313
Sushi Ok 5228 Arlington Ave (951) 689-8054
Sushi Okoku 10380 Magnolia Ave (951) 343-2225
Sushi R91
1630 Spruce St (951) 682-1323
Sushi Station 19029 Van Buren Blvd #115 (951) 789-0068
Sushi Times 1400 University Ave Ste A101 (951) 777-1037
Sushingon
6060 Magnolia Ave (951) 224-9590
Taiyos Sushi & Poki 11120 Magnolia Ave (951) 343-1112
Teriyaki Plus 7120 Indiana Ave (951) 788-8337
Tomo 7 Sushi
5519 Van Buren Blvd (951) 343-5991
Top Grill
5225 Canyon Crest Dr Ste 94 (951) 530-8668
Vanilla Fish
5225 Canyon Crest Dr Ste 55 (951) 777-1950
Zen Street
3600 Central Ave #1 (951) 683-3648
KOREAN
bb.q Chicken
3770 9th St (951) 534-0254
Chimak House 11120 Magnolia Ave, Unit A (951) 343-1120
Manna Grill 1201 University Ave #110B (951) 530-8033
Kimchichanga 1995 University Ave (951) 684-9800
Koreana Grill 10051 Magnolia Ave Ste A1 (951) 688-9000
Saet Byul Asian Market 9555 Magnolia Ave (951) 637-5652
Wang Cho Korean BBQ 3639 Riverside Plaza Dr (951) 788-8889
MEDITERRANEAN
Elias Pita
1490 University Ave Ste 103 (951) 686-6800
Fufu’s Mideast Grill 3605 Market Street (951) 595-4527
Georgie's Mediterranean 5225 Canyon Crest Dr Ste 57 (951) 823-0440
Greek Street Grill
3312 La Sierra Ave Ste 103 (951) 352-0801
The Halal Guys 1201 University Ave, Ste 102 (951) 742-7656
Kabob House 10901 Magnolia Ave (951) 353-9711
Lucky Greek 3887 Merrill Ave (951) 686-2621
Panini Kabob Grill 1298 Galleria at Tyler (951) 352-6318
Sam’s Pita & Kabab 9799 Magnolia Ave (951) 376-1269
MEXICAN
Acapulco Pollo 8151 Arlington Ave Ste O (951) 406-1215
Ahumadas Mexican Grill 7614 Evans St (951) 368-4583
Anchos Southwest Grill & Bar 10773 Hole Ave (951) 352-0240
Antojitos Mexicanos La Ribera 4773 Tyler St Ste 2d (951) 353-1852
Armando’s Mexican Food 4294 Riverwalk Pkwy Ste 200 (951) 343-5896
Ay Mi Pa 3775 Tyler St #1B (951) 729-6174
Azteca Market 5125 Jurupa Ave A2 (951) 530-8791
Birrieria Little Tijuana 12702 Magnolia Ave Unit 25 (951) 268-6895
Birrieria Xolos 9696 Magnolia Ave (951) 376-1226
Cactus Cantina
151 E Alessandro Blvd (951) 789-0211
Casa Mota
8151 Arlington Ave (951) 352-7383
Castaneda’s Mexican Food
6751 Indiana Ave (951) 786-0996
Castañeda’s Mexican Food 1450 P University Ave (951) 786-0996
Chilitos Mexican Grill
3847 S Pierce St Ste F (951) 509-1002
Cielito Lindo 10277 Arlington Ave (951) 352-3214
Costa Delmar
4561 La Sierra Ave (951) 588-8798
El Chapala Seafood Restaurant
8201 Arlington Ave (951) 359-7560
El Fogon Mexican Grill
765 Blaine St (951) 782-8959
El Habanero
6160 Arlington Ave (951) 343-5868
El Ojo De Agua
2115 University Ave (951) 779-6293
El Patron
3204 Mission Inn Ave (951) 777-1131
El Torito
3639 Riverside Plaza Dr Ste 526 (951) 684-6816
El Trigo 4155 Park Ave (951) 787-6937
Estrella Taqueria Lounge
3635 University Ave (951) 999-4323
Fire Up Bar & Grill
3750 University Ave (951) 289-9071
Fish Taco Xtreme
16960 Van Buren Blvd Ste D (951) 800-9061
Fuego 360
Rotisserie Chicken
3866 La Sierra Ave (951) 456-3705
Green Taco
3812 Pierce St (951) 353-2272
Habanero Mexican Grill
2472 University Ave (951) 224-9145
Ixtapa
4093 University Ave (951) 777-1132
Joe Aguilar’s Templo Del Sol
1365 University Ave (951) 682-6562
Juan Pollo 6055 Magnolia Ave (951) 683-3513
Kalaveras 1690 Spruce St (951) 742-5761
Kimchichanga 1995 University Ave (951) 684-9800
La Bufadora Baja Grill 497 E Alessandro Blvd Ste B (951) 776-2881
La Bufadora Baja Grill 5650-52 Van Buren Blvd (951) 687-7237
La Cruda Mariscos 6733 Indiana Ave (951) 777-0862
Las Campanas 3649 Mission Inn Ave (888) 326-4448
Las Nuevas Islas 4920 Jackson St (951) 772-0020
Little Green Onions 6723 Brockton Ave (951) 328-1273
Los Cabos Tacos 11840 Magnolia Ave (951) 352-2653
Los Fredo’s Mexican Food 9111 Magnolia Ave (951) 525-3411
Los Novillos Market 2650 Main St (951) 530-8893
M Taco 4111 Main St (951) 784-7135
Maria’s Mexican Kitchen 17028 Van Buren Blvd (951) 780-2034
Mariscos El Camaron Loco 3340 Mary St (951) 682-3882
Mercado Don Juan #3 3375 Iowa Ave (951) 787-9292
Mezcal Cantina Y Cocina 3737 Main St Ste 100 (951) 888-2240
Miches De La Baja 1242 University Ave Ste 5 (951) 742-5633
Mi Lindo Apatzingan 9948 Magnolia Ave (951) 688-0908
Morena's Mexican Cuisine
3457 Arlington Ave Ste 106 (951) 266-6333
Mr. Taco 2435 Main St (951) 682-4020
Mr. Taco 18590 Van Buren Blvd (951) 776-9900
Olivia’s Mexican Restaurant 9447 Magnolia Ave (951) 689-2131
Palenque 3737 Main St (951) 888-2240
Pepitos Mexican Restaurant 5225 Canyon Crest Dr Ste 42 (951) 783-9444
Ramiro’s Cocina 9418 Magnolia Ave (951) 354-6146
Ranchito Tacos Al Carbon 2995 Van Buren Blvd Ste A1 (951) 359-8646
Rancho La Perla 3700 Van Buren Blvd Ste 109 (951) 688-8682
Retro On Main 3744 Main St (951) 742-5606
Rico’s Tacos El Primo 1788 University Ave Ste 102 (951) 782-9610
Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill 3848 La Sierra Ave (951) 687-2280
El GoGo's Taco Shop 19530 Van Buren Blvd Ste G6 (951) 656-0304
Señor Baja 6033 Magnolia Ave (951) 369-5720
Sushingon 6060 Magnolia Ave (951) 224-9590
Taco Station 4088 Mission Inn Ave (951) 782-8226
Tacos La Piedad 3522 Madison St Ste 104 (951) 578-0892
Tacos Y Más 10203 Hole Ave (951) 687-1344
Taqueria Azteca 5959 Arlington Ave Ste E (951) 509-3670
Taqueria 2 Potrillos 10088 Magnolia Ave (951) 588-8772
Bar & Restaurant Guide
Taqueria Mi Ranchito
4724 La Sierra Ave (951) 352-0528
Taqueria Tomateros 9164 Magnolia Ave (909) 257-1545
The Tamale Factory 3663 Main St (951) 342-3023
Tijuana’s Tacos 8151 Arlington Ave (951) 343-7777
Tina’s Mexican Food 2421 University Ave (951) 686-1524
Tio’s Mexican Food
19009 Van Buren Blvd Ste 124 (951) 780-7776
Tio’s Tacos 3948 Mission Inn Ave (951) 788-0230
Tony’s Mexican Food 3870 Chicago Ave (951) 788-4410
Tony’s Mexican Grill 9670 Magnolia Ave (951) 729-6141
Tuxies Juices 6030 Magnolia Ave Ste 3 (951) 781-1048
Yoli’s Mexican Grill 3225 Market St (951) 801-7104
Zacatecas Cafe 3767 Iowa Ave (951) 683-3939
PAKISTANI
Al-Karam Pakistani Cuisine 3457 Arlington Ave Ste 101 (951) 742-5610
Mirchi Restaurant 1385 W Blaine St (951) 400-2825
SEAFOOD
California Fish Grill 10920 Magnolia Ave Suite 101 (951) 405-6880
Market Broiler 3525 Merrill Ave (951) 276-9007
Pier 76 Fish Grill
3555 Riverside Plaza Dr Ste 108 (951) 341-9297
Rockstar Shrimp 767 W Blaine St (951) 530-8620
Shrimp Shack Cajun Fusion 3605 Market St, Ste 9 (951) 742-5558
Seafood & Crawfish 10173 Magnolia Ave (951) 359-5999
Star Crab 10051 Magnolia Ave (951) 977-9440
STEAKHOUSES
Duane’s Prime Steak & Seafood
3649 Mission Inn Ave (888) 326-4448
Flat Top Bar & Grill 17960 Van Buren Blvd (951) 780-0114
THAI
Angel Thai Cuisine 6736 Brockton Ave (951) 788-1995
Best Thai Cuisine 1735 Spruce St F (951) 682-4251
Gra Pow 497 E Alessandro Blvd #D (951) 780-1132
Monark Asian Bistro 5225 Canyon Crest Dr #64 (951) 683-1073
Chaam Eatery 2955 Van Buren Blvd #F1 (951) 359-1331
Riverside Thai Kitchen 7755 California Ave (951) 729-6675
Royal Orchid Restaurant 9791 Magnolia Ave (951) 354-6100
TK Thai Cuisine 11860 Magnolia Ave Ste T (951) 509-3701
VEGETARIAN/VEGAN
Goodwin’s Organic 91 W Big Springs Rd (951) 682-2667
La Sierra Natural Foods 11550 Pierce St (951) 785-2563
Monty’s Good Burger 3605 Market Street (213) 915-0257
Oasis Vegetarian Café 11550 Pierce St (951) 688-5423
Veg & Go 1201 University Ave Ste #115 (951) 213-6233
VIETNAMESE/PHO
5 Stars Pho Restaurant 4950 La Sierra Ave (951) 772-0700
Pho 81 2995 Van Buren Blvd Ste A13 (951) 977-8869
Phở 99 4557 La Sierra Ave (951) 688-2671
Pho Anh 5646 Van Buren Blvd (951) 977-9889
Pho Anh Hot Pot & Crayfish 10271 Magnolia Ave (951) 729-6668
Pho Anh Hot Pot & Crayfish 231 E Alessandro Blvd (951) 215-0585
Pho DJ 5180 Arlington Ave (951) 354-2799
Pho Ha 10185 Magnolia Ave (951) 354-8918
Pho Ha #7 1820 University Ave #101 (951) 680-0790
Pho Star Bowl 10051 Magnolia Ave (951) 299-8130
Phở Vinam Restaurant 1201 University Ave #107 (951) 784-4290
WINE BARS/WINERIES
The Brickwood 3653 Main St (951) 352-2739
Canyon Crest Winery 5225 Canyon Crest Dr Ste 7A (951) 369-9463
Mario’s Place 3646 Mission Inn Ave (951) 684-7755
For those facing challenges with their utility bills, monthly assistance is available for electric and water services, with support offered for up to 12 months for incomequalified households.
Postcards From Yesterday
JULIAN JOLLIFFE
White Park Building, 1926
Riversider
Penn
Aaron
