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best of walnut creek 2018 The votes are in! You weighed in on everything from date spots and workouts to spa treatments and restaurants. Now it’s time to celebrate the winners of our annual reader’s choice awards.
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best of 2018
13 Talk of the town Meet three notable locals in the news. Build your library with these books from Bay Area authors. Get the latest scoop on business openings and closings around town. Meet Macy’s Store Manager, Maria Padilla-Angel, mentoring retail’s next generation.
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where when Ring in 2019 with our party guide: from a swanky soiree at The Palace to Tainted Love at Bimbo’s.
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exhibits Art and science shows worth exploring: Jewels of the Maharajas at Legion of Honor; Gauguin at De Young; Altered States opens at Bedford.
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theater listings Cirque de Soleil’s Volta extends its stay. The much-anticipated performance of Paradise, An American Musical opens at Berkeley Repertory Company. Stars 2000 performs Cabaret at Las Lomas. SHN does Hello Dolly and brings back Hamilton to San Francisco.
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dining guide As the region’s culinary reputation expands, here is our definitive resource to eating at the area’s top restaurants for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and beyond.
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BEST OF WALNUT CREEK 2018 Publisher Pam Becker Kessler Editor Lauren Kessler Art Director Carrie Wallahan website Cale Finta Photography Rachel Capil Lisa Duncan Alexxa Grace Bob Brittain Tiffany Fong Jessica Freels Sarah Grunder Scott Hein Josh Isaacs Kyle Luman Brian Murphy
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contributing writers Deborah Burstyn Lynn Carey Lou Fancher Sophie Johnson Rezel Kealoah Kathryn McCarty Fran Miller Alison Negrin Robert Stankus Dale Tafoya Ani Tascian operations intern David Kessler Kessler Communications, Inc. Walnut Creek Magazine PO BOX 5550 WALNUT CREEK, CA 94596 (925)212-5146 email: info@walnutcreekmagazine.com No print or online material from Walnut Creek Magazine may be reproduced without written consent. walnutcreekmagazine.com
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Deborah Burstyn is a freelance journalist who has worked as a staff writer for The Washington Post, Newsweek, the Contra Costa Times and the California wine industry. A longtime Walnut Creek resident, when not writing you can find her in the Open Space or in an art museum.
jessica freels has been taking photos since she was eight years old. Her passion is sports photography because it lets her shine a light on the talented young athletes in our community. A long time Bay Area resident, she resides in Walnut Creek with her son Jake and beloved pooch.
josh isaacs is one of the Bay Area’s premier freelance photographers. A wedding specialist, he is also known for his corporate, real estate, fashion, and private party work. When not on location, Isaacs plays guitar and throws curveballs with his ten year old son.
Lou Fancher is a San Francisco Bay Area writer. In addition to Walnut Creek Magazine, her work appears in a wide range of online and print publications. A children's book author and illustrator, she has over 50 books in print. She is also a choreographer, ballet master, and teacher, who coaches professional ballet and contemporary dance companies in the U.S. and Canada.
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COMING up...
From the Publisher
In November we celebrated 25 years of Diablo Ballet with Macy’s at a spectacular Saturday morning fashion show. Company ballet dancers, guided by their brilliant Artistic Director Lauren Jonas, modeled swanky holiday looks down the runway. Guests were also treated to some serious swag and a delicious catered buffet by our friends at Sunrise Bistro. It was an impressive collaboration, and I hope we can create more community partnerships like this one next year. It’s a winning strategy when we all work together.
THE HEALTH & BEAUTY ISSUE
Speaking of winning, that’s what this issue is all about. In it we celebrate the businesses that won in our annual reader’s choice awards. From spa treatments to ribs to hikes at Shell Ridge, the community weighed in on their favorites. I think you’ll love our Best of Walnut Creek spread. Be sure to keep it and share it with friends and family—it’s a great reference for all things Walnut Creek.
TOP TRENDS 2019 SPA GETAWAYS
It’s hard to believe we are on the cusp of 2019. A big thank you to our fans, followers, readers, writers, designers, photographers, and most of all, advertisers, for helping us make Walnut Creek Magazine happen. We are grateful for your support. What kind of content do you want us to deliver? What stories do you want us to tell? or businesses to review? We appreciate your feedback. Write to us at info@walnutcreekmagazine.com so we can connect.
FITNESS & NUTRITION FADS SHADELANDS' TRANSFORMATION REAL ESTATE PREDICTIONS
Pantone says ‘Living Coral’ is the color for the new year. Sociable and spirited, it energizes and inspires. I’m ready to look at the world through coral-colored lenses, how about you?
AND MORE....
Wishing you a wonderful season of giving and receiving.
LET'S TALK ABOUT HOW WE CAN COLLABORATE
Cheers! Pam
Contact US: publisher@walnutcreekmagazine.com
(925) 212-5146
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talk
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NEWSMAKERS | BAY AREA BOOKS | BUZZ TO KNOW ABOUT | MACY'S TOP MENTOR
Three Notable Locals In the News An Actor, An Aviator, and A Park System Leader by deborah burstyn
BRAVO!
Las Lomas Alum Ben Bogen Makes Broadway Debut
Ben Bogen, Las Lomas Class of 2012, moved to New York a year ago and like so many other starry-eyed kids had dreams of making it on Broadway. But in Bogen’s case the dream came true. ➤ best of 2018 / walnut creek
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This season he is making his Broadway debut in the hugely popular performance of Disney’s “Frozen.” Prior to landing the role, Bogen understudied the lead role of Frankie Valli in the national “Jersey Boys” tour, appearing onstage nearly 50 times as Valli and becoming the youngest actor in the show’s history to do so. Bogen, who graduated from the University of Michigan with a BFA in musical theater after attending Las Lomas for high school, started studying dance with downtown Walnut Creek’s Lareen Fender Ballet School at the age of eight. While growing up, he appeared in local theater productions, including many at the Lesher Center for the Arts and Stars 2000. “What many people don’t realize is that Walnut Creek and the Bay Area offer many wonderful arts programs for kids,” Bogen says. Right now, he’s working on building up the stamina to perform “Frozen” eight times a week. “It gets very hot and sweaty onstage in those winter coats; during my first few shows I thought I was going to pass out!” he admits. He says it’s very special when folks from back home attend the show. So, if you’re heading to NYC, stop by and say hello. ◆ ◆ ◆
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talk/in the news
Honoring a Hometown Hero Campaign to Rename Oakland Airport after Local Aviator
T
iffany Miller hopes to get Oakland International Airport renamed for Maggie Gee, a woman she never met. When Miller’s grandmother Elaine Harmon, a World War II Women Airforce Service Pilot, (WASP), died in 2015 and was denied burial in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, Miller and her family successfully lobbied Congress to get new legislation passed to ensure that all WASPs had the right to be buried in Arlington. It was during that fight to get equality for her grandmother that Miller first learned about Gee. A good friend of her grandmother’s who served with her in WII, Gee was one of only two Chinese-American WASP pilots in the war and co-piloted some of the largest U.S. airplanes. A lifelong Berkeley resident, Gee passed away in 2013 at age 86.
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While trying to obtain the right for her grandmother and other WASPs to be buried in Arlington, Miller became aware of another inequity facing women. “While I was working on that campaign, I realized that there are no major airports in the US named for a woman,” Miller says. “I want to change that. I can't think of a more fitting person to honor in this way than Maggie Gee who was a trailblazer all her life. She was a hometown hero who deserves to be honored.” Miller recently began gathering signatures for a petition on Change.org. She hopes to get 2,500 signatures and is nearing that goal. Officials for the Port of Oakland, which oversees management of Oakland Airport, have given no indication whether they will support the name change. ◆ ◆ ◆
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talk/in the news
An Environmental Leader East Bay Regional Park District General Manager receives prestigious national award
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obert Doyle, General Manager of the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) and Walnut Creek resident for over 30 years, received a national award for his leadership of our regional park system. With recipients chosen by the American Academy of Park and Recreation Administration, the Honorable Cornelius Amory Pugsley Award medal is the most prestigious award given in the United States for the development of public parks, recreation, and conservation. During his acceptance speech, Doyle humbly thanked others for their work in helping him expand area parklands and increase the number of trails.
“I did not do these things by myself,” he said. “I did it with mentors who pushed me, leaders who trusted me, and generations of park champions. To be the stewards of these wonderful places where kids can play, where all are welcome, where birds sing, and flowers bloom year after year is a great reward.” 18
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Founded in 1934 during the Depression by citizens concerned about preserving the open space, the EBRPD is the largest urban regional district in the United States covering 121,000-acres in 73 parks with 1,250-miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding in Alameda and Contra Costa counties. Doyle began his long career with EBRD as a park ranger. During his 21-year tenure, he has served as assistant general manager for Land Acquisition and Planning and helped create the district’s first Regional Trails Master Plan. Doyle has headed the park system as general manager since 2010. ◆ ◆ ◆
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good reads
Books by Bay Area Authors by lynn carey
The Dakota Winter Tom Barbash
Ecco (December 2018) Anton Winter returns home to New York City after a stint in the Peace Corps, and finds his father, a famous late-night TV host, has had a breakdown. Anton helps him regain his career on a journey that takes them to the Olympics, the Hollywood Hills, and the Bermuda Triangle, rubbing elbows with famous people like Johnny Carson. In this fictional novel, Mill Valley’s Barbash tells a funny and poignant family saga that provides a snapshot of New York City in 1979.
Freefall: A Divine Comedy
The Eulogist Terry Gamble
Lily Iona Mackenzie
William Morrow (January 2019)
Wacky artist Tillie Bloom and three old friends reunite in Whistler to plan their 60th birthdays in Venice, but Tilly has a hidden agenda: she wants to crash the Venice Biennale, seeking a larger audience for her installations. A romance with an Italian priest is icing on the biscotti. Zaniness ensues, but also self-reflection, as the women navigate more than just the canals. This novel by Bay Area author Mackenzie looks at how friends reevaluate as they “come of age.”
An immigrant Irish family, who lost their estate after the Napoleonic Wars, escape to America in 1819 and end up in Cincinnati. After losing their parents, the three siblings branch out on their own—one marries well joining Cincinnati ‘society,’ the other becomes a pastor, and their sister Olivia marries a doctor. But after her husband dies, Olivia travels to his family in Kentucky where she witnesses the horrors of slavery. Gamble, who divides her time between Sonoma and San Francisco, writes about a family who joins the movement to smuggle slaves to freedom.
Pen-L Publishing (January 2019)
High: Everything You Want to Know About Drugs, Alcohol and Addiction David Sheff & Nic Shef HMH Books for Young Readers (January 2019)
Marin-county father and son team David and Nic Shef know a thing or two about addiction. Their new movie “Beautiful Boy” is in theaters now based on David’s story about his drug-addict son, Nic. Their latest collaboration “High” describes the pitfalls of addiction and shares testimonials. In it they stress the dire need for middle schools to educate kids about how to navigate stress and peer pressure without drugs.
Crave: A Memoir of Food and Longing Christine S. O’Brien
St. Martin’s Press (November 2018) Walnut Creek author O’Brien grew up in New York’s famed Dakota district, home to some of history’s biggest celebrities, from Leonard Bernstein to John Lennon. Her father was ABC executive Ed Scherick (“Wide World of Sports”) and her beautiful mother was fine—until she wasn’t. Her memoir details the strict diet her mother insisted they follow, consisting mostly of salads. O’Brien and her brothers loyally followed the eating plan, despite constant hunger and fear of their father’s rages. Her memoir chronicles her pain and success in recreating a good life with food and family.
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On the Horizon
Happenings, announcements and things to know about
Kristin Farr, West Coast Barn Quilt, 2018
BAY CLUB ACQUIRES RENAISSANCE CLUBSPORT Health and hospitality operator expands into the East Bay
Instagram-worthy Large in scope. Ambitious. Impossible to miss.
In November, the Bay Club Company announced plans to purchase five Leisure Sports Inc. properties including ClubSport in Walnut Creek, Danville, Pleasanton, and Fremont, as well as a location in Portland. Renaissance ClubSport in Aliso Viejo was not part of the deal. Eventually the clubs will be rebranded to the Bay Club brand name. “Finding a partnership that has a rich focus on fitness and hospitality is very exciting for our team as well as our members and guests” said Steve Gilmour, President and CEO of Leisure Sports, Inc. Walnut Creek’s Renaissance ClubSport marks the Bay Club’s first foray into the hotel business.
Have you seen the vivid mural popping off the wall of the Lesher Center for the Arts? Commissioned by the city, the vast 28 x 16 foot geometric art, designed by Bay Area artist Kristin Farr, resembles a radiating star. Farr hand-painted the captivating work onsite, without masking tape or straight-edge tools, and incredibly created the three-dimensional mural. Farr’s work joins Walnut Creek’s growing public art collection. Experience it all firsthand. Go to bedfordgallery.org. for details on public art walking tours.
GOT WIFI free internet access downtown @ #WalnutCreek The city just dropped a serious system upgrade closing WiFi gaps downtown and enhancing coverage between Civic Drive and Mt. Diablo Boulevard as well as North Main and Locust streets. You can login now by selecting the #Walnut Creek network on your phone, tablet, laptop, or other connected device. 22
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on the horizon
What’s In Store You’ve heard about blow dry bars. Now you can touchup your hair on the fly at Broadway Plaza’s Madison Reed Color Bar. Footwear giant Vans skated into town with a brand-dedicated store on Olympic Boulevard. San Francisco’s rororiri opened a chic shop on Main Street giving posh pet-owners a new place to outfit their pups. And a children’s bookstore dedicated to keeping the love of reading alive for tots to teens, Flashlight Books, opened its doors on Main Street. Thai food restaurant, Tasoro Thai, is taking over the former Sunol Ridge space on Locust Street, but just down the street Diane’s Beachwear closed. City officials are close to announcing a new tenant for the old Lark Creek restaurant. Rumors range from Spanish to German food. A sign on the window of shuttered OIC-Bowl-turned Thai eatery says Burma 2 is coming soon. Construction on the Mt. Diablo digs for smoking hot Bounty Hunter is underway, expected to open in March. Residual Sugar expanded with a new wine bar in Concord’s Veranda shopping plaza. Next time you’re on the Cal campus in Berkeley, check out the newly transformed Bear’s Lair which came out of hibernation as a gourmet gastropub. Graduates from San Francisco’s La Cocina restaurant program for women, popped-up on the lower level of Cal Student Union: Syrian food at Old Damascus Fare; cheesecake from A Girl Named Pinky, and Vietnamese bowls at Noodle Girl.
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Super sad to report Walnut Creek Produce closed its Olympic Boulevard fruit and vegetable outpost due to a substantial rent increase, but continue to operate their Monument Boulevard shop.
GOT BUZZ? EMAIL IT TO US AT INFO@WALNUTCREEKMAGAZINE.COM.
profile
Mentoring Retail’s Next Generation MARIA PADILLA-ANGEL—MACY’S STORE MANAGER
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BY LOU FANCHER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSH ISAACS
ive minutes with Maria Padilla-Angel makes one thing clear: the highly dynamic Vice President and General Manager of Macy’s Walnut Creek is a generous woman with a heart for people. Employed by Macy’s for 34 years, Padilla-Angel has established a solid record as a business coach gifted in teamwork. She says mentoring the next generation of executive leaders in the retail industry and forming partnerships within the company, as well as collaborating with the community at large, provides her with tremendous satisfaction.
“I tell people my number one reward is growing talent I’ve mentored along my career. I’m most proud of the people who’ve worked with me and grown into key positions. To me, that’s the ultimate prize.” Padilla-Angel holds bachelor’s degrees in marketing and accounting from Sacramento State University. Married for 24-years to Carlos Angel, Vice President of Operations at automation company Bay Point Control, the couple have two adult children; a 21-year-old daughter at Cal Poly and a son, 19, attending a junior college in Napa.
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profile
Expectedly, crafting high-powered careers, while raising children, has required strategic planning. While mutual understanding of their daily demands provides instinctive empathy, Padilla-Angel says the couple has benefited greatly from family support. “My parents helped raise our kids. My sister-in-law actually watched our kids during the day for two years.” Applying skills she uses at work—trust, transparency, planning, organization, and “everybody chips in attitude,” PadillaAngel has learned to manage a busy schedule at home and at work. “I tell people my number one reward is growing talent I’ve mentored along my career. I’m most proud of the people who’ve worked with me and grown into key positions. To me, that’s the ultimate prize.” Her typical workday begins even before leaving home. “I get store performance information first thing in the morning, so I can think about what’s working, what conversations I’ll have, and things I need to look at prior to reaching the store." Upon arrival, Padilla-Angel walks through the store, “connecting the dots” with performance figures and what she sees on the sales floors. Next, meetings with her executive team, and a morning employee rally to celebrate successes and to establish daily priorities. One day it’s all about Black Friday or the holiday season; on another it’s about a new community partnership. “I start wrapping it up after a final 5:15pm “touch-base” meeting with my team. I try to get out of the store by 6:00 or 6:30pm.” September and October are the busiest months of the year when Macy’s over 200 plus employees ramp up for the holiday rush. “November and December, it might surprise you to know, are the most fun. Even with all that’s going on at the store, I put up seven Christmas trees in my house, I love the holiday,” she says. This year expanded women’s and furniture departments, along with other ame-
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nities like “At Your Service” (customers who order online can pick them up in the store) enhance the Macy’s shopping experience.
Recently, Macy’s Walnut Creek won the “Best of the Best” award in the company’s nationwide competition for the holiday season—out of 700 stores nationwide. Even so, Padilla-Angel continues to ask, “What do customers want more of in Walnut Creek?” To recharge, she heads to the gym. Weights, cardio, and cycling do the trick; at other times, a long hike or dinner with her husband at a favorite Thai or Japanese restaurant are perfect de-stressors. Describing herself as an “intensely loyal person,” regular get-togethers with friends and weekly visits with her nearby parents are essential. Asked where she’s most likely to be found when shopping for herself, PadillaAngel says Macy’s dress and shoe departments are favorites. “I love dresses. Even
if I don’t have an occasion in mind, I always buy them. And pumps. You can make a pump look professional or wear it to a social function.” She says booties are hot this season, as are “special occasion dresses” featuring sequins, velvet, and mixed fabrics. Looking to 2019, active wear that can be worn all day, not just at the gym, is hot. “The trend is mixing things like Adidas yoga pants with a leather jacket, or private label sweaters with active wear and a fur jacket,” she says. Colorful leggings with oversized sweaters, and the perennial favorite, anything denim, remain the store’s most popular items. Circling back to job satisfaction, she highlights the Macy’s Foundation and the $35,000 her downtown store has donated to local nonprofits. Although she has no immediate plans to retire, Padilla-Angel looks forward to someday writing a book about how to balance working and parenting. “I’d say to women that they shouldn’t be hard on themselves. There are funny stories about the early years that I laugh about with my kids now. When kids get older, you realize you were very present in their lives.”
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BEST OF
WC BY T H E WA L N U T C R E E K M A G A Z I N E T E A M OF WRITERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS
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FOOD. FASHION. ART. CULTURE. PLUS THE LATEST BUSINESS SCOOP. WE DELIVER IT ALL IN PRINT AND ONLINE. J O I N T H E C O N V E R S AT I O N CONNECT TO OUR COMMUNITY
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Shop { From chic salons and stunning floral dÊcor to meticulous alterations and expert shoe repairs, here is a roundup of our reader’s favorites for premium goods and services.
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA FREELS
best of wc
Hair Salon
Salon Hanover Dreams do come true. Krystal Kerkasian’s natural talent for doing hair has taken her on a successful journey from Bakersfield to Beverly Hills then to Walnut Creek where Barbara Reyna fostered her career at Raymond Marc. Krystal went on to work for Phoenix and Caroline’s in Lafayette, before opening her own Salon Hanover in January 2018 on Cypress Street. Peter Millard, renowned for his work at L’Oreal and Redkin, designed her chic space where top-tier stylists have already built a solid reputation for stunning cuts and color. “It’s so exciting to work in a positive environment watching each individual stylists’ growth. I dreamed of having a salon like this and now it’s real,” says Krystal. salonhanover.com
Florist
florali On quaint Boulevard Circle sits an eclectic mix of shops and salons. It’s here that Florali opened 15 years ago and became an innovator in floral design. Owned by mother and son team Darwin Harrison and Susan Donley, the florist specializes in dramatic seasonal arrangements created with local bounty from Northern California farms. florali.com
Mani-Pedi / the nail lounge Pedicure buffs know that a long-lasting polish is nothing without an even longer foot scrub and rub. At the Nail Lounge, (formerly the Nail Shop on Locust) feet are soaked in a hot water lavender bath before techs spend more than 30 minutes making your rough spots disappear. Booking side-by-side appointments is relatively easy, polish is applied meticulously, and prices are reasonable. It’s a winning combination. loungenailshop.com
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best of wc
Shoe Repair A-1
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA FREELS
Laces, luggage, and shredded heals, they do it all here. Seasoned at repairing highend designer merchandise, A-1 Shoe & Luggage Repair is the downtown go-to for shoes, bags, buckles and so much more. Attention to detail and excellent craftsmanship has customers praising this superior shoe salvage operation year after year. 1399 N. Main Street
Thrift Shop Hospice of the East Bay An exquisite array of clothing, fine and costume jewelry is easy to find here. Hospice of the East Bay operates six thrift shops, Walnut Creek’s on Newell Avenue features a wide selection of vintage items, collectibles and household goods. Plus, all proceeds go to support end-of-life care for critical patients regardless of their ability to pay. hospiceeastbay.org.
Eyewear
Broadway Eyeworks Eyewear can be a necessity or a fashion statement. Either way it should fit your face and your style. Broadway Eyeworks carries a treasure trove of hip, contemporary designs and hard-to-find
frames from around the globe— Chanel, Face à Face, Oliver Peoples, Ray-Ban, Tom Ford. A local favorite for over 25 years, husband/wife team, Dr. Mock and Suzi, fit you with precision and care whether for seeing or for sunbathing. broadwayeyeworks.com
Jewelry / SPITZ Walnut Creek is flush with jewelry stores, but when it comes to a trusted favorite, family-owned Spitz Jewelers wins for its legacy of value, service, and quality. From brilliant diamonds to high-
end watches, Spitz has adorned thousands of wrists and fingers since 1946 when Anna and Henry Spitz opened their first jewelry store in Oakland. From their Main Street shop, third generation jewelers do custom work and repairs, and if your wallet can handle it, they’ll put a sparking 10-karat yellow diamond ring on your hand. spitzjewelers.com
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best of wc Barbershop
Dimaggio's
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA FREELS
The revolving red and white pole might be gone, but little else has changed at DiMaggio’s Barber Shop where the haircuts remain as classic as the décor. Every day here is Throwback Thursday—hot shave and all. Professional barbers wield scissors and buzzers with a precision that has earned them a loyal clientele. Sal Di Maggio, a cousin of Yankee great Joe Di Maggio, took over the legendary shop almost 20 years ago, that began as Walt’s in 1958. 1379 N. Main Street
Vet
Geary vet hospital It always seems like its adding insult to injury when you must take your sick or injured pet to the vet. But at Geary Veterinarian Hospital, Dr. David Bjork and his team of docs put your pet at ease. That much dreaded vet visit quickly turns from pants to laps. They offer a full spectrum of medical care— everything from breeding to vaccinating to counseling on nutrition. gearyveterinaryhospital.com
Grooming petco
It’s a national chain but ask anyone with a cute pup where they get their dog’s doo done and most say Petco. Apparently, Walnut Creek Magazine readers agree. Located in a non-descript strip center, the vast pet department store caters to every creature comfort plus au courant getups. In the grooming department, a busy team of cutters shampoo, clip, trim, brush, and blow-dry beauties all day long. Make an appointment—it gets busy here. petco.com
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Facial
woodhouse day spa This Cypress Street retreat has made a mark for its vibe and treatments. Book here when you need privacy and pampering; rumor has it a lot of professional athletes do. Once you pass the gift shop— a good one—you’ll enter a luxe space designed for lingering. Try the award-winning Minkyti facial that gets rave reviews for its nutrient-rich seaweed ingredients. It’s 80 minutes of sheer bliss. woodhousespas.com
Massage
loosen up bodywork
Cosmetics
sephora If you’re into cosmetics, Sephora is your candy store. Not only do they help match colors, they also teach you how to contour, and point out the best DIY kit. Celebrating their 20th anniversary, Sephora has found a way to stay relevant and ahead of the curve—introducing interactive on-site beauty classes and creating an experiential makeup wonderland. sephora.com
This is not your standard massage kind of place. At Loosen up Bodywork, they get to the root of your pain using sports and rehabilitative deep massage techniques. Bodywork includes myofascial release, trigger point, and lymphatic drainage, Founder Gina Tibbs, an instructor/therapist with over 14 years of experience, has brought together a team of massage therapists who share her passion for healing, and a loyal clientele who need to alleviate pain. loosenupbodywork.com
Spa Treatments for Men skinspirit
Smooth and glowing. That’s how your skin looks after a lavish facial that cleans, exfoliates, and boosts elasticity with hydrating serums. Since opening in 2003, Skinspirit Skincare Clinic has become a top spot for skin and body care, for guys and gals. Cutting-edge technology, BOTOX®, fillers, laser resurfacing, hair removal, chemical peels, and weight loss are on the menu at this hip med-spa. skinspirit.com
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Jeans, Dresses, Handbags and Men’s Apparel Nordstrom
Alterations Lusano
Few sounds are as unmistakable as the tearing of designer silk. Locals who need alterations or major mending, turn to Lusano, where petite powerhouse Rose Sargsyan nips, tucks, and tailors your clothes. A new hemline here and a few more pleats there, brings even the most delicate goods back to life. 1270-G Newell
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While malls across America are dying slow and painful deaths, freshly redesigned Broadway Plaza is thriving. Destination retail anchors like Nordstrom draw shoppers from near and far. With savvy styles and super service, it’s the top shopping spot to find the perfect outfit for any occasion. This year, Nordstrom took home the win in four categories: Men’s Apparel, Jeans, Dresses, and Handbags. Chic store manager Debbie Dimich and her retail team strive to make anyone who walks through the department store’s doors comfortable and welcome. “We are inviting customers into our home, and I want them to feel that way,” she says. “I love sharing the store with people and watching them leave with a smile.” nordstrom.com
Eat { FROM GENERAL TSAO’S CHICKEN AND STICKY BARBECUE RIBS TO FEATHER-WEIGHT PASTA AND BANANA CRÈME PIE, HERE IS THE CITY AT ITS MOST DELICIOUS.
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best of wc
Date Spot
Va de Vi
PHOTOGRAPHY BY tiffany fong
You’ve made it through the online dating checklist: decent text conversations, coffeehouse meeting, drinks at a local bar. Now it’s time for a romantic (not too romantic) dinner under the twinkling lights at Va De Vi. At downtown’s vivacious bistro, share some eclectic international small plates and wine flights under the old oak tree, or grab a table in the lively dining room. Chef Mike Fischetti’s menu mixes Peruvian papas bravas, baked burrata, and Alaskan black cod. Tasteful, but not too pricey. vadevi.com
Poke
Oke Poke It’s easy to inhale a sticky-rice filled bowl topped with fresh fish, veggies, and addictive sauces. Locust Street’s Oke Poke leads the pack with craveworthy, protein-rich seafood bowls and wraps. Customers trick out their fresh cubed, marinated raw tuna or salmon with Maui onion, flying-fish roe, and dried seaweed furikake. Top it with mango, ginger, edamame, nuts and house sauce for a flavorful twist. okepoke.com
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Seafood
Walnut Creek Yacht Club There are a lot of ways to experience Chef Kevin Weinberg and Ellen McCarty’s awardwinning seafood restaurant. Tackle the menu small-plates style: dabbling in mussels, crab cakes, and garlic fries. Satisfy your appetite with a dish of fresh fish, exquisitely prepared to order, a steaming bowl of cioppino or decadent fish and chips. Winter brings the restaurant’s famous crab and lobster feeds, priced to please. This fish house has it all—including the best mai tais in town. wcyc.net
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Burger & Fries
The Counter Who makes the best burger in WC? A variety of spinoffs to this meaty American classic can be found on most restaurant menus in town, but for the ninth year in a row, The Counter takes the win. The menu at this Mercer building bistro offers a dizzying array of ways to top a grilled turkey, chicken, veggie, or beef patty with a delicious mess of everything from Gouda, grilled onion, and arugula to avocado, bacon, egg, and barbecue sauce. You also can’t go wrong with a simple juicy grass-fed beef patty on a bun or a bed of greens. Devour one with a side of fries. thecounterburger.com.
Chinese PHOTOGRAPHY BY kyle luman
Dragon's Pond Walnut Creek is filled with magnificent Asian cooking; restaurants that specialize in slippery noodles and fried chicken cubes smothered in sauce. But after your chopsticks deliver the first bite of tasty salt and pepper calamari, you’ll know why this tiny Locust Street eatery packs them in. Hunan and Mandarin delicacies seem reinvented, drawing from executive Chef Xiao Lin's experience in Asian cooking in New York City and San Francisco. Hot and sour soup is thick with ribbons of whisked-in eggs, General Tsao’s chicken is spiced to order on a bed of crisp, fresh broccoli. Other specialties include mango chicken, honey walnut prawns, and duck chow mein. Plenty of vegetarian items grace the menu too. dragonspond.com
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best of wc
Ribs
Sauced
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA FREELS
Barbecue lovers converge at Sauced for great food and a bit of southern charm. Owners and cousins Barrett Gomes and Brenden Scanlan serve up the tastiest slow-cooked ribs in town. Dry rubbed pork spareribs are smoked for several hours, then caramelized in sweet-spicy homemade barbecue sauce. The tender meat practically falls off the bone. Sides include baked beans, cole slaw, and waffle fries. With four Sauced locations under their belts, the duo plan to open their next barbecue house on Santana Row next year and expand their fried chicken sandwich concept, Plucked Chicken & Beer. saucedbbqandspirits.com
Sushi
Sasa Chef Philip Yang and his culinary team turn out the kind of izakaya food you’d find in Tokyo. Eating at this swank Japanese bistro is a culinary adventure, and it’s easy to splurge. Especially on the incredibly fresh, meltin-your-mouth sushi and seasonal specials resembling works of art. Occupying the centuryold building that once housed Lawrence's Meat Market—the atmosphere at Sasa is just as striking as the food. sasawc.com.
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Happy Hour
Fleming’s It takes more than cheap drinks to please happy hour patrons in this town. You’ve got to give them something good to nosh on. Fleming’s does it best with a prime happy hour, 5 to 7pm nightly in the bar with a selection of six wines, seven cocktails, and nine appetizers. The posh steakhouse keeps you on your toes with a different assortment of happy hour special every night, but you can usually count on grass-fed burgers and spicy fried calamari paired with Veuve or Pinot. flemingssteakhouse.com
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Craft Beer
Calicraft Blaine Landberg has cultivated quite a following and business with his Calicraft brand beer. At his Shadelands Business Park tasting room, conviviality spills out of a garage-style roll up door and sprawls across the lawn. In nice weather people tote picnic baskets or grab a bite from a nearby food truck. Inside a long redwood bar and butcher-block communal tables invite guests to sip complex blends and handcrafted brews: IPA’s, lagers, ciders, and wines. calicraft.com.
Salad
Lettuce Crunch your way through one of the leaf-packed beauties at Lettuce. Your body will thank you. The popular Napa Salad—organic spring mix with field berries, rosemary chicken, toasted sugar walnuts tossed in balsamic vinaigrette—has built quite a following. Tuna Niçoise is another hit—sushi-quality fish, haricots verts, and niçoise olives create salty goodness. And any time a salad has as much meat and cheese as greens, it’s a winner. Half an avocado, a fistful of blue cheese, and a whole lot of bacon are piled on the Cobb. Made fresh to order and right before your eyes, salads are piled high with nutrition and flavor. lettuce1.net.
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best of wc
Pizza
Rocco's
PHOTOGRAPHY BY RACHEL CAPIL
Once you've got things right, why change them. Consistency is king at Rocco's Ristorante Pizzeria. This bustling Italian eatery tops the list for hand-tossed dough, rich sauce, and hefty portions. Many of the menu favorites are culled from owner Rocco Biale's own Italian family recipes. Hand-tossed and brick-fired pies range from the Dominator and Dante's Inferno to Naples-style pizza appetizers, to the Via Port Alba, made with fresh mozzarella di Bufala. Generosity doesn't stop with the food here; Rocco's is an enthusiastic contributor to local fundraisers and schools. roccospizzeria.com
Vegetarian Menu Veggie Grill
When Veggie Grill opened its first East Bay outpost in Walnut Creek, it was a bit risky since
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vegan food was a harder sell in suburbia. Since that time in 2015, the Santa Monica-based restaurant chain has thrived, feeding us good-tasting, affordable, 100 percent plantbased food. Menu highlights include meatless burgers, Buffalo wings, tempura green beans, quinoa and black bean bowls, and savory kale Cesar salads. With calorie counts posted on the menu, you can watch your waistline and wallet here. veggiegrill.com
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Meat Market Lunardi’s
Nobody will deny that big box retailers like Sam’s Club and Costco have threatened the existence of traditional supermarket meat counters. Don't tell that to die-hard carnivores who turn to the friendly and knowledgeable butchers behind the
counter at Lunardi's for fresh, high quality meat. For years this supermarket, tucked away in the Palos Verde Mall, has been the go-to for a special holiday roast, thick filets, or a cut of pork for a new barbecue recipe. They also have a killer poultry and seafood selection. This is a top-quality spot. lunardis.com.
best of wc Italian
Montecatini
Pies
Hick’ry Pit
Deli
Genova’s The Italians know their food and Genova Delicatessen is our little slice of Italian heaven. Since 1969, Genova’s has been slicing salami and prosciutto for loyal customers in Walnut Creek. Pull a number, pick out a fresh sourdough roll from the bin, and order your custom grinder at the counter. Made at a nearby family-run factory, their plump ravioli is a favorite family tradition, stuffed with meat, cheese, spinach or pumpkin, and topped with decadent sauce. You can also find it in the freezer section at Safeway. genovadeli.net
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH GRUNDER
On an average day, 600 hungry patrons come through the doors at the Original Hick’ry Pit on South Main. They come for the food and simplicity of a bygone era. It’s a home away from home, a tight knit family of coworkers and customers who remember birthdays and
stories. When it comes to pie, there is no wrong move here— banana and coconut cream, pecan, apple, San Francisco silk—they’re simply divine. It’s all about sitting at the old school counter, eating a slice of pie, sipping coffee, and feeling grateful that classic diners like this one still exist. hickrypit.com
With a long legacy of making delicious Italian food, Chef Ermes Paulin opened his popular Walnut Creek restaurant in 1989, on the day of California’s Loma Prieta earthquake. Since then, Chef Paulin has put his heart and soul into preparing consistently fresh and luscious dishes that have turned Montecatini Ristorante into a timeless classic—house made three cheese ravioli, veal-filled tortellini, and feather-weight strands of fettuccine smothered in seafood. A tender calamari steak tastes like abalone served in a savory white-wine lemon sauce. Plus, they have a serious A+ wine list. montecatinirestaurant.com
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best of wc
Breakfast
Sunrise
Coffee
Peet’s Even with dozens of new contenders pouring meticulously-sourced, roasted beans and cups brewed to order, Peet’s Coffee continues to be the top spot for a caffeine fix. Founded in Berkeley in 1966, coffee beans from all over the world are freshly ground, brewed, and served by skillful baristas who transform a simple cup into a revelation. peets.com
If you must get out of bed, breakfast at this beloved bistro is a good way to start the day. Founded by wellness guru Chef Cindy Gershen, her son Joe Stein and Chef Ty Pearce run the restaurant now dishing up award-winning food. Poached eggs cover corned beef sweet potato hash, fluffy yogurt pancakes are stacked piping and a chicken ‘south of the border’ comes on fresh corn tortillas with black beans. Open for breakfast and lunch, they also run a full-service catering operation. sunrisebistrocatering.com
Mexican
maria maria
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA FREELS
This lively cantina, founded by musician Carlos Santana, boasts a big creek-side patio and open-air dining room that almost transports you to Mexico. Famous for happy hours, Taco Tuesdays, and innovative food, the inspired menu features dishes like duck tacos in tomato habanero cream sauce, seafood guacamole, and signature shrimp burritos stuffed with poblano peppers and house made cheese. Tasty margaritas help pump up the volume. mariamariarestaurants.com.
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{ RADICAL WORKOUTS TO SPECTACULAR VIEWS AND GARDEN WEDDINGS, HERE ARE COOL PLACES TO EXPLORE.
{
Do
FROM RENEGADE HIKES TO
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best of wc
Place to Workout
Renaissance ClubSport When this upscale health club and hotel opened fifteen years ago, Renaissance ClubSport elevated Walnut Creek’s workout scene. Since then, places to get fit are endlessly opening all over town. Despite steep competition, ClubSport wins for its top-notch amenities, and resort-like service. It’s fair to say, they offer it all—outdoor pools, bocce courts, state-of-theart fitness center, personal trainers, indoor basketball, squash, and racquetball courts. Studios deliver killer workouts in spin, yoga, Pilates, kickboxing, cycling, barre classes, and more. Wellness programs include weight management, nutrition, and Rev32. Add to that a spa, cabanas, a restaurant, a hotel, event space, valet parking, and a bar. renaissanceclubsport/walnut-creek.com
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Family Fun
Rock City For so many, iconic Mt. Diablo State Park represents the heart and soul of our region. Its spectacular views beckon and inspire adventure. A favorite among people who like to explore, climb, and campout, Mt. Diablo’s Rock City. sits at 4,000-feet, revealing sandstone formations carved by wind, rain, and time. You can access the trail via Live Oak
Campground, and it’s only about a quarter-of-a-mile hike to Sentinel Rock. Climb up and take it all in. On a clear day, you can see for almost 200 miles. Head to the nearby Wind Caves, Elephant Rock, Lower Rock City, Gibraltar Rock, and the Grotto Picnic area. To get there, access the South Gate off Diablo Road in Danville. parks.ca.gov/mtdiablo
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It’s hard to believe this blissful place is only a short distance from our bustling downtown. A hiker’s paradise, Walnut Creek’s Shell Ridge Open Space captivates with 31 miles of moderate to tough trails on 1420 acres of the Mt. Diablo foothills. The area gets its name from the marine fossils left behind when the ocean waters that once covered the area receded. It’s easy to break a sweat hiking at Shell Ridge and the views and valley oaks will leave you breathless. Dogs are allowed off-leash, but you take the risk of running into wild creatures. Multiple trailhead access points include Castle Rock Road, about a ½ mile past Northgate High School, and the end of Marshall Drive near Indian Valley Elementary School. walnut-creek.org
Bullman with Bulldog Move over Fountainhead, the guy who hangs out on the corner of Main and Mt. Diablo got the crown. The life-size, bronze sculpture, Bullman with Bulldog, was commissioned by developer and philanthropist Brian Hirahara and created by artist Gerald Heffernon for the City of Walnut Creek. A popular selfie spot, the “humanimal” sculpture depicts a man with a bull’s head and his companion—a bulldog. “I like Gerald’s whimsical, humorous artistic approach and Bullman not only grabs people’s attention, it puts a lot of smiles on faces. And that was the intention,” says Hirahara.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA FREELS
Shell Ridge
Public Art
Photography by Scott Hein
Hike
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best of wc Wedding Venue
Gardens at Heather Farm
Photography by Josh Isaacs
For a magical place to tie the knot, the Gardens at Heather Farm wins as Walnut Creek's top spot. Lush garden ceremonies, cocktail hours at the outdoor bar, and unforgettable banquet receptions make this an ideal spot to host weddings, surrounded by a 1000 rose bushes that bloom from spring through fall. A wedding at this special venue will leave lasting memories. gardenshf.org
Public Park
Heather Farm This beautiful 102-acre public park is an easy escape with its alluring activities, sights, and sounds. Just off Ygnacio Valley Road sits Heather Farm Park, home to Clarke Memorial Swim Center—a community aquatics facility that has turned out Olympic champions—a big, bright all-abilities playground, picnic grounds, tennis courts, acres of sports fields for baseball and soccer, a skate park, a fishing pond, and an equestrian center. Add to that serene spaces for long walks, a wild bird habitat, a dog park, and a community event center, and it’s easy to say Heather Farm is ground-zero for fun. walnut-creek.org
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Community Event
Art & Wine Festival One thing is certain, the Bay Area loves festivals. Walnut Creek kicks-off summer each year with the Art & Wine Festival in Heather Farm Park. During the two-day celebration, close to 100,000 people fill the grassy lawns listening to live music, dancing, sipping premium wines and craft beers, and shopping for hand-crafted gifts. Produced by the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, this community event is a stand out. artwinefestivalwc.com
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where & when
NEW YEAR'S EVE CELEBRATIONS | BAY AREA CULTURE SCENE | ART | SCIENCE | THEATER
Ring in 2019 BEST PLACES TO PARTY ON NEW YEAR’S EVE It's the perfect excuse to party, whether you’re celebrating what you accomplished in 2018, or looking forward to a fresh start in 2019. From swanky soirées to booze-free bashes, dance the night away or chill and watch fireworks with the family.
beach blanket babylon San Francisco’s musical revue, Beach Blanket Babylon, rings in the New Year with hilarious spoofs on pop culture and political characters. The show follows Snow White on a journey around the world in search of “Prince Charming.” Along the way she encounters The Trump Family, Kim Jong-un, Kaepernick, Putin, Lady Gaga, Wonder Woman, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Judge Kavanaugh, Sarah Huckabee, Beyoncé, Kanye West, Oprah, Prince Harry and Meghan, and many more. beachblanketbabylon.com. ➤ best of 2018 / walnut creek
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ring in 2019
Party at The Palace
Diamond Dave's Dance Party
Four separate rooms, lavish décor, premium open bar, plus world-class DJs. Dance the night away to salsa, hip hop, and pop at San Francisco’s Palace Hotel at an over the top New Year’s Eve party in one of the city's swankiest venues. aykutevents.com.
Ring in 2019 with legendary DJ Diamond Dave at Walnut Creek’s Ristorante Massimo. From Frank Sinatra and Neil Diamond to Bruno Mars and Justin Timberlake, hip hop, rock, and swing are all on the playlist. ristorantemassimo.com
New Year’s at Eve’s
Tainted Love at Bimbo’s
This waterfront restaurant gets high marks for its’ weekend brunches. On New Year’s Eve the party starts with a prix fixe dinner followed by dancing to the sounds of Oakland’s best DJs plus a one-hour open bar, and a champagne toast at midnight. eveswaterfront.com
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Glam it up and head to San Francisco’s oldest nightclub to party with Tainted Love, Girl in the Fishbowl, Mr. Lucky & The Cocktail Party, and Cosmo Alleycats. Standing room only at this 21 & over venue, complimentary champagne at midnight, hats, party favors, and a balloon drop. bimbos365club.com
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Mission Carnaval Head to the Mission District for an exotic San Francisco Armory party. Samba dancers, and the hottest salsa, reggae, hip hop, and top 40s, plus door prizes, exotic drinks, an epic balloon drop, and speed dating for singles. Bring your dancing shoes, masks, and costumes to this once-in-a-lifetime event. carnavalsanfrancisco.com
Wine & Dine at Meritage Share a toast, dance the night away, and sip exquisite wine at Napa Valley’s Meritage Resort. This posh party starts with a wine country-inspired buffet, live jazz, party favors, a balloon drop, and a champagne toast at midnight. Hit the after-party for dancing to the sounds of Entourage. meritagecollection.com
ring in 2019
Balloon Drop
sunset of 2018 aboard the Schooner Freda B. schoonerfredab.com
USS Hornet
Sunset Sail On this afternoon Sausalito voyage, sail around iconic parts of the San Francisco Bay including Alcatraz, Angel Island, Marin Headlands, the
Golden Gate and Bay bridges. Take it all in from the deck of a meticulously-maintained, traditionally-rigged sailboat. Grab a drink from the cash bar and celebrate the last
A former Fred Astaire dance instructor guides black tie guests in lessons on the USS Hornet dance floor. Others revel in San Francisco’s spectacular fireworks display from the flight deck above. Big band sounds from a 16-piece orchestra play songs by Count Basie, Glenn Miller, and Harry James. Get ready to Rhumba, Cha Cha, Waltz, and Swing the night away. uss-hornet.org.
Make it a family affair and keep the kids up late for the big balloon drop at Oakland’s Chabot Space & Science Center. Now in its 19th year, at this popular event kids count down and revel in the hundreds of colorful balloons dropping from above. chabotspace.org.
MAKE IT A RITUAL Join us for exceptional food and hospitality in the lobby lounge or restaurant
LIVE MUSIC FRIDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHTS
Executive Chef Francisco Serrano
The Walnut Creek Marriott 2355 N. Main Street, Walnut Creek | (925) 934-2000 | marriottwc.com
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where & when
Exhibits
East Meets West: Jewels of the Maharajas from The Al Thani Collection
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Eye-popping gems star at Legion of Honor’s sparkling exhibit
ll that glitters is not only gold. Sometimes it’s rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and very big diamonds. These stones and more shimmer from the cases of the Jewels of the Maharajas show now on display at San Francisco’s Legion of Honor Museum, including the Idol’s Eye, a 70.2-carat diamond, that is the largest blue diamond in the world.
In ancient India, the ruling male elite brandished their power by bedecking themselves in extravagant turbans, dagger hilts, bracelets, and multistrand necklaces. During the Raj, when Britain ruled India, English ladies copied the maharajas’ copious ropes of pearls. Soon India’s rulers also began draping their wives in jewels and bringing their gems to Cartier’s and other topnotch European jewelers
to have their chunky diamonds cut into exquisitely- shaped carats. Widely dispersed to private collectors, including the British royal family, the precious jeweled pieces of the Maharajas have been painstakingly acquired and assembled into a compelling collection by a Qatar prince. Through February 24, legionofhonor.famsf.org. –Deborah Burstyn
Cruisin’ Discover connections between art and science through fantastically colorful renderings by artist Ray Troll and paleontologist Kirk Johnson. Together, they paint a vivid picture of the land and creatures that once roamed the West Coast thousands of years ago. A captivating show sure to thrill fossil fans. Through March 19, Oakland Museum of California, (OMCA), museumca.org.
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where & when
Gauguin: A Spiritual Journey For the first time in San Francisco, an exceptional display of more than fifty Gauguin paintings, wood carvings, and ceramics from the world-renowned collections of the Copenhagen are on view. The exhibition explores two central themes: the relationships that shaped Gauguin’s life and work, and his quest to understand spirituality. Through April 7, de Young Museum, SF, deyoung.famsf.org.
Victoria Wagner, Woodrock: Night Country, 2016
Winter Wonderland Outdoor snow flurries, a hands-on polar-themed exhibit, and ice rink are all part of the San Francisco Academy of Science holiday celebration. This aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum—all under one living roof—is one of the city’s greatest treasures. Steinhart Aquarium is home to nearly 40,000 live animals. Open 365 days a year, ice show ends January 6. calacademy.org
Altered States Guest curated by Heather Marx, Altered States features artists living and working along the California coast who use natural elements from the environment to create reclaimed artwork. This exhibition offers an opportunity to reflect on how we are all interconnected by the sun, moon, air, and tides. January 13-March 24, bedfordgallery.org.
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where & when
Theater
Berkeley Rep’s Paradise, An American Musical Racial and cultural themes from 150 years ago still resonate today By Lou Fancher
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dazzling constellation of stars shine behind Berkeley Rep’s world premiere of Paradise Square, An American Musical. The bold new production directed Moisés Kaufman features choreography by MacArthur “Genius” and Tony-Award winning Bill T. Jones. Lyrics written by Nathan Tyson are based on the songs of American songwriter Stephen Foster. A book co-written by Bay Area native Marcus Gardley, Craig Lucas, and Larry Kirwan gives rise to a complex, historical narrative from 1863 that holds relevance for audiences in the racially-charged atmosphere of 2018. Five Points, a 20-block area of Manhattan where Black and Irish Americans lived together and occasionally intermarried peacefully in the 1860s,
is increasingly tested by the Civil War’s racially lopsided Federal draft. Black and white skin becomes a separating delineation when blacks are not allowed to serve in the country’s military, resulting in severed friendships and actual riots. Originally conceived by composer/ writer Kirwan, the musical combines true stories, contemporary reframing of 19th century music, and vibrant dance traditions from Irish step-dancing to African Juba to tap. Expressing the energy of a community existing in and out of unity, the multi-generational cast relies on theater artists whose credits include notable work on Broadway and television, in films, at world dance competitions, and in previous Berkeley Rep productions.
Themes and questions that resonant today are the show’s undercurrent: when does cultural mixing become appropriate? Under what conditions did people of different races mix harmoniously? Can we find peaceful co-existence or will “otherness” always separate neighbor from neighbor? Even before its premiere, the musical has won an Edgerton Foundation New Play Award. Theatergoers will appreciate pre-and-post show talks about the playwright’s vision and why stories from 150 years ago continue to play out heartbreakingly accurate today. December 27–February 17, berkeleyrep.org
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where & when Cabaret Miss Sally Bowles comes back into the spotlight in Stars 2000 musical Cabaret. Set in 1930s Berlin, the musical chronicles the changing lives of a happy-go-lucky group of young people as the emergence of Nazis overcomes their best efforts to ignore the gathering storm. Given the current rise of hate speech and anti-Semitic crimes, Stars 2000 Director Diane Kamrin and Producer Ellen Smith seem to have timed the revival of Cabaret just right. They’re not alone. Recently film star Emma Stone appeared as Sally Bowles in a Broadway revival and a new production of Cabaret is currently touring the U.S “Often, entertainment goes deeper in terms of ideas than the news,” said Oscar winner Joel Grey in a recent interview about the shows enduring popularity and relevance. — Deborah Burstyn January 11 – 27, Las Lomas Theater, WC, brownpapertickets.com.
On Stage
Volta
by Kathy McCarty
Following a month-long run and sold-out shows, Cirque du Soleil extended its San Francisco run to February. This energetic, urban performance combines stunts and aerobics in riveting acts under the Big Top at AT&T Park. Stirring original scores fuel the adventurous street sports. Volta is Cirque’s 41st original production delighting more than 190 million spectators around the world. Through February 3 in SF, February 13-March 24 in San Jose, cirquedusoleil.com.
Honky Can a new experimental drug cure racism? Political correctness is thrown out the window as five people muddle through a difficult conversation in Honky, a rare and hilarious take on America’s language of racism and greed. Katja Rivera directs this comedy by Greg Kalleres. February 1-17, Danville, roleplayersensemble.com.
Brooklyn Bridge Melissa James Gibson’s charming story centers on a 10-year-old latchkey kid Sasha, with a big homework assignment on the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s due in one day and she can’t find a pen in her family’s quirky brownstone. Her procrastination helps her meet caring neighbors. February 28 -March 23, Town Hall Theatre, Lafayette, townhalltheatre.com.
COMMUNICATING DOORS Sharon Rietkerk stars as a futuristic London dominatrix who travels back in time to save herself from a sinister murderer. She joins forces with two other women to foil the plot. The race is on to change the future in this twisty time-travel thriller directed by Michael Butler. January 25 – February 23, Lesher Center for the Arts, WC, lesherartscenter.org.
Seascape In her debut as Artistic Director of ACT, Pam MacKinnon directs Pulitzer Prize winner Edward Albee’s Seascape, a sparkling fantasy of growing up and growing old. In this wildly imaginative and satirical comedy, a newly retired couple picnics on a beach and squabbles about their life together when they’re interrupted by two human-sized, English-speaking lizards. January 23–February 17, SF, ACT-sf.org.
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where & when
Hamilton If you missed San Francisco’s hottest ticket in town last year, you’re in luck. The Broadway sensation returns for a six-month run. Winner of 11 Tony Awards (including Best Musical and Best Score) Hamilton features a blend of hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, and R&B to tell the story of America's Founding Father Alexander Hamilton. Experience America then, sung by America now. February 12 – September 8, SF, shnsf.com.
Come From Away Tony-nominated Come From Away depicts the true story of 7,000 passengers stranded on 9/11 by worldwide airline shutdowns until a small town in Newfoundland welcomed them. Cultures clash and nerves run high, but uneasiness turns into trust and gratitude grows into enduring friendships. January 8 – February 3, SF, shnsf.com.
Her Portmanteau America Conservatory Theatre joins forces with Magic Theatre to produce Her Portmanteau by Mfoniso Udofia. A nine-part saga about a family of Nigerian immigrants, and their American-born children, who are forced to confront painful legacies across language, continents, and cultures. February 15–March 31, SF, act-sf.org.
Creditors Tony nominated director Barbara Damashek takes the helm of Creditors, a powerful psychodrama about a sexual triangle taken to destructive extremes. Written by August Strindberg in 1888, this new translation by Scottish playwright David Greig, presents a tragic story of deceit. January 25 – February 24, Berkeley, auroratheatre.org.
Metamorphoses
Hello, Dolly! Tony Award-winning Broadway legend Betty Buckley stars as the enchanting widow Dolly Levi, a socialite-turned-matchmaker, in the first national tour of Hello, Dolly! The winner of Best Musical Revival, the show features the original 1964 work of legendary director/choreographer Gower Champion. February 19- March 17, SF, shnsf.com.
Berkeley Rep presents Mary Zimmerman’s breathtaking Tony Awardwinning play in a co-production with Guthrie Theatre. In this provocative tour de force and ode to the power of love, the shadows that lurk beneath it are revealed. Metamorphoses is based on 1st century Roman poet Ovid’s classical myths of passion and transformation. January 24-March 10, berkeleyrep.org.
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walnut creek M
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Dining Guide where to eat now Edited by Anneli Rufus
These listings include advertisers and non-advertisers at the discretion of Walnut Creek Magazine. We suggest that you phone the restaurants ahead for reservations, current hours, and days of operation. All listings are in the (925) area code, unless noted otherwise. We welcome your comments and suggestions. Please write to us: Dine, Walnut Creek Magazine PO Box 5550, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 or email us at info@walnutcreekmagazine.com.
AMERICAN
BREAKFAST JOINTS / BURGERS / SALADS / BARBECUE BACK FORTY TEXAS BARBECUE: Meat is king here - from steak and sliced brisket to chicken and ribs, much of it cooked according to Austin-style family recipes.100 Coggins Dr., Pleasant Hill, 935-1440, backforty.us. BUTTERCUP: At this family- run restaurant, it’s all about savory homemade meals. Besides big breakfasts, Buttercup dishes up lunch and dinner. And on Fridays, they serve Matzo Ball soup. 660 Ygnacio Valley Rd., 932-2763, buttercupgrillandbar.com
CORNERS TAVERN: Upscale comfort food served in a spirited atmosphere. Get communal around the 30-seat bar or hang out in the lounge alcoves with mussels, sliders or garlicky shrimp. Great collection of craft beers. 1342 Broadway Plaza, 948-8711, cornerstavern.com.
DENICA’S: There’s a lot to love at this north Walnut Creek
restaurant starting with the mouthwatering pastries lining the bakery’s shelves. Other show stoppers include Benedict four ways and big salads. 2280 Oak Grove Rd., 945-6200, denicascafe.com.
KATY'S KREEK: With 12 kinds of Eggs Benedict, a full bar and brunch served every day, this is the place to satisfy your cravings. If your taste buds prefer the sweet, Katy's is famous for its blintzes and Swedish pancakes. 1680 Locust St., 946-0949, katyskreek.com. LETTUCE: A salad emporium that loads farm-fresh produce into generously sized classics and creative new inventions. Locals love the Napa and Pink Lady salads. 1632 Locust St., 933-5600, lettucerestaurant.com.
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MOOYAH: It’s a franchise with a load of personality. Take your kids to this colorful burger joint and let them build their own burger and eat it with a side of fries. 1815 Ygnacio Valley Rd., 280-5555, mooyah.com.
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE: New Yorks, rib eyes and filets
are served on sizzling 500-degree plates cooked to perfection. Round out the meal with spinach au gratin and potatoes Lyonnaise at this swanky steakhouse. 1553 Olympic Blvd., 977-3477, ruthschris.com.
SAUCED BBQ: With dozens of tv screens and as many craft beers on tap, Sauced is the place for watching games, while indulging in a heaping pile of nachos. Order the juicy brisket or tender ribs, it’s all good, especially with a side of buffalo blue fries. 1410 Locust St., 433-5957, saucedbbqandspirits.com.
STANFORD’S: Happy hour is hot here with steak bites, flatbreads, and burgers on the menu. This is the place to take a shopping break and sip a signature cocktail. 1330 S. Main St., 944-0895, stanfords.com. SUNRISE BISTRO: The emphasis here is on fresh, healthy food. For breakfast try the sweet potato hash or yogurt pancakes. At lunch, you can’t go wrong with a chicken salad sandwich or big salad. 1559 Botelho Dr., 930-0122, sunrisebistrocatering.com. THE COUNTER: Upscale burger joint where they make it the way you want it, from exotic to classic, and top it with your favorites. Plump patties range from beef, bison, turkey and mahi mahi. 1699 N. California Blvd., 935-3795, thecounterburger.com. THE ORIGINAL HICK’RY PIT: This diner is known for its honest American food served all day with a heaping side of hospitality. House specialties are barbecue ribs and homemade pies. 1495 S. Main St., 935-7450, hickrypit.com. TRUE FOOD KITCHEN: Always packed, Dr. Weil’s culinary venture is a hit here. The grass-fed burger is one of the best in town, so is the beet bruschetta, squash & ricotta pizza, and seasonal salads. Organic, gluten-free ingredients are used in the cocktails. Broadway Plaza, 952-7314, truefoodkitchen.com.
sweet Savory salty spicy
the johnny cash burger
ASIAN
CHINESE / VIETNAMESE / JAPANESE / THAI / FUSION DRAGON POND: Executive Chef Xiao creates Hunan and Mandarin delicacies. House favorites include Mango Chicken, Honey Walnut Prawns and Salt & Pepper Calamari. 1353 Locust St., 926-0278, dragonpond.com.
CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED BURGERS, FRIES & COMFORT FOOD SCRATCH COOKING • CRAFT BEER & COCKTAILS LU N C H • D I N N E R • W E E K E N D B RU N C H
1548 Bonanza Street, Walnut Creek, (925) 945-6960 BRODERICKROADHOUSE.COM best of 2018 / walnut creek
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ASIAN
CHINESE / VIETNAMESE / JAPANESE / THAI / FUSION LE CHEVAL: Renowned for its classic Vietnamese cuisine,
sample the shrimp rolls, vermicelli salads, lemongrass chicken, clay pots or the sweet curry seafood special. 1375 N. Broadway, 938-2288, lecheval.com.
KOJA KITCHEN: This Korean-Japanese fusion fast casual chain gets high marks for barbecue short ribs and Kamikaze fries. They also do salads and bowls. 1550 Olympic Boulevard, 448-8218, kojakitchen.com.
MIXED GRAIN: Authentic Korean comfort food. Try the bibimbap, a big bowl of fluffy rice, colorful vegetables and creamy egg. Nine condiments accompany every meal, including spicy cucumber and seaweed salad. 1546 Bonanza St., 938-5959, mixedgrain.com. NAMA SUSHI: This casual sushi spot in a north WC strip
mall is always packed with raw fish fanatics craving the chef’s creative rolls, fresh fish and Japanese fare. 1502 Sunnyvale Avenue, 932-9540.
KEVIN’S NOODLE HOUSE: Classic Vietnamese pho noodle
MDine-in MCarry-out MCatering MBanquets MSaloon
bowls take center stage at this affordable, upbeat spot perfect for lunch or dinner. Tasty fish cakes and spring rolls are good bets for appetizers. 2034 N. Main St., 933-4746, kevinsnoodlehouse.com.
PF CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO: This large Chinese restaurant
manages to feel intimate with an interesting menu that draws on multiple Asian cooking styles. Try the lettuce wraps and Dan Dan noodles. 1205 Broadway Plaza, 979-9070, pfchangs.com.
LEGENDARY TEX The way it was meant to be.
PLEARN THAI: Regulars pack the tables for the succulent flavors in the barbecue meats, pan-fried eggplant and curry prawns. Save room for the heavenly batter-fried bananas topped with coconut ice cream. 1510 N. Main Street, 937-7999, plearnthaipalace.com. SASA: Upscale Japanese izakaya with dazzling décor and
decadently fresh fish. Melt-in-your-mouth sashimi is served with an array of sake.1432 N. Main St., 210-0188, sasawc.com.
VANESSA'S BISTRO: During happy hour, prices at this popular
925-935-1440
100 Coggins Dr., Pleasant Hill backforty.us facebook.com/backforty
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Vietnamese spot drop to $6 for most small plates and cocktails including green papaya prawn salad, petrale sole fish tacos and crispy Saigon rolls. 1512 Locust St., 891-4790, vanessasbistro2.com.
CALIFORNIA
PASTA / FISH / ORGANIC PRODUCE
Innovative Italian Cuisine
B e f o r e o r a f t e r t h e t h e at e r , o r a n y t i m e
A’TRIO: Lively restaurant-lounge inside the Walnut Creek Marriott turns out delicious California cuisine with a Mediterranean flare. Flatbreads, salads, tasty burgers and salmon. Live music on weekends. 2355 N. Main St., 934-2000, marriottwalnutcreek.com.
1515 RESTAURANT LOUNGE: Always bustling for cocktails, flavorful pastas and fresh fish, the heated outdoor patio is a good place to people watch. 1515 N. Main Street, 939-1515, 1515wc.com. CITRUS: This hip restaurant inside Renaissance Club Sport, fea-
tures Pacific Rim dishes and California classics. Sunday brunch is a weekend ritual with Bloody Mary’s on the patio. 2805 N. Jones Rd., 938-8700, renaissanceclubsport.com.
CHOW: Always packed with locals, the menu offers plenty of comfortable choices from sandwiches to brunch fare. An adjoining market sells organic greens, and fresh meats. 53 Lafayette Circle, Lafayette, 962-2469, chowfoodbar.com.
MAIN STREET KITCHEN: Farm-fresh ingredients grace the menu here. Standouts include fish and chips with house cabbage slaw. Burgers are made from grass-fed beef and fried green pickles come with a lemon aioli. 1358 N. Main St., 933-1001, mainstkitchen.com.
piano bar • outdoor patio • private parties Lunch & dinner • special events
1604 Locust Street, Walnut Creek 925-932-1474 • massimoristorante.com
METRO: In a seriously chic space with a huge outdoor patio, the kitchen turns out international fare from diverse organic ingredients. 3524 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, 284-4422, metrolafayette.com. THE PEASANT'S COURTYARD: A casual spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner served in a charming outdoor courtyard. Pancakes, ribs, burgers and calamari. 3195 Danville Blvd, Alamo, 362-0088, thepeasantscourtyard.com. VA DE VI BISTRO: With its sophisticated vibe and al fresco dining under an old oak tree, the restaurant's sips are accompanied by a sampling of small plates--bite size burgers, pasta, risotto, and seafood. 1511 Mt. Diablo Blvd., 979-0100, vadevi.com.
ITALIAN / pizza IL FORNAIO: Italian food so innovative, you’ll forget it’s a chain. Lovely dining room with outdoor seating in the heart of downtown shopping. 1430 Mount Diablo Blvd., 296-0100, ilfornaio.com. MONTECATINI RISTORANTE: An Italian restaurant with staying power; it opened the day of the big earthquake in 1989. The traditional menu features excellent seafood, pastas and veal. 1528 Civic Drive, 943-6608, montecatiniristorante.com.
PINKY’S: Perfect for birthday parties and post-game feasts, Pinky’s is a Walnut Creek tradition. Simple, affordable and comfortable, the pizzeria has remained true to its vision since opening in the 1960’s. 2085 N. Broadway, 939-5000, pinkyspizzawc.com.
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POSTINO: In a romantic, fireplace-studded, brick building, executive chef Stewart Beatty and his team create elegant dishes from fresh seasonal ingredients. 3565 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, 299-8700, postinorestaurant.com. PRIMA: Everything’s made fresh on the premises at Chef Peter
Chastain’s acclaimed contemporary Italian restaurant. His flavorful risottos and light gnocchi will have you coming back for more. 1522 N. Main St., 935-7780, primaristorante.com.
CRAB SEASON It’s time to crack some crab and open a bottle of Chardonnay. One of the most anticipated events for Northern California foodies, Dungeness crab season usually runs to February. Regional chefs use the popular crustacean in seasonal recipes.
DUNGENESS CRAB MAC N’ CHEESE Nick's Cove
(Serves 6-8)
Ingredients: 1 pound Dungeness crab meat 2 pounds elbow macaroni pasta ½ pound unsalted butter ¾ cup flour ½ gallon whole milk ½ gallon heavy cream 2 leeks, white part only, sliced 1 cup Point Reyes Toma cheese, shredded 1 cup Spring Hill Cheddar, shredded ½ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, shredded Salt Tabasco Fresh lemon juice (¼ lemon) Parsley, chopped (for garnish) Toasted breadcrumbs (for garnish) Directions: In a large pot bring three gallons of water to a boil. Add pasta and boil, 6-8 minutes. Add to a large mixing bowl and set aside. In another large pot begin melting butter. Add leeks and sauté 5-10 minutes, until soft. Add flour. Stir constantly; cook until mixtures bubbles, 2-3 minutes. Add milk and bring to a boil; reduce to simmer. Allow mixture to simmer, about 5 minutes. Add cream, then simmer 5 minutes more. Add all the cheese, whisk until incorporated. Add salt to taste, 3-5 drops of Tabasco, and lemon juice. Pour over pasta and add crab meat, stirring to incorporate. Serve with toasted breadcrumbs and parsley.
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ROCCO’S: This is the place for pizza aficionados. The meaty Dominator and vegetarian Dante’s Inferno are house specialties, along with heaping pastas and salads. 2909 Ygnacio Valley Rd., 947-6105, roccospizzeria.com. SKIPOLINI’S: Fans flock here for the family vibe and can't- miss pies. The Martinelli, white sauce topped with red peppers, cayenne chicken and fresh spinach, is a house favorite. Legend has it the Prego pizza brings on labor quicker than you can say "more pepperoni, please." 1535 Giammona Dr., 280-1100, skipolinispizza.com. 54 MINT FORNO: Burrata cheese is showcased here in a delicious
appetizer with roasted peppers and on the Campana pizza with arugula. They also make a mind-blowing lasagna from fresh pasta layered with ragu, béchamel and mozzarella. 1686 Locust Street, 476-5844, 54mintforno.com.
MEXICAN EL CHARRO: A Lafayette favorite, the margaritas are magic accompanied with chips, salsa and “cheese dip.” From fish tacos to burritos, this restaurant has served generations of locals. 3339 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, 283-2345, elcharro1947.com. MARIA MARIA: This beautiful Mexican restaurant is known for its creative dishes like creamy duck tacos, mole short ribs and spicy sweet chile rellenos. Start your meal with guacamole and margaritas. 1470 N. Broadway, 946-1010, mariamariarestaurants.com. CINCO DE MAYO: This authentic downtown taqueria, popular for its seafood and good prices, attracts an eclectic mix of diners. They also serve up some seriously good fish tacos. Grilled or fried they come on a plate with refried beans and rice. Chicken, beef, pork, and veggie tacos are only $2. 1372 Locust St, WC, (925)954-1050, cincodemayorestaurant.com.
MID-TO-FAR-EAST Gyros / Greek Salads / Kabobs
BABALOU'S: Great food at great prices. The Middle Eastern menu is seductive for vegetarians and carnivores alike—with aromatic meats and a tempting display of salads served in a brightly muraled room. 1645 Bonanza St., 930-8000, babalous.com.
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on broadway photography by Ben krantz
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Stylish guests at Diablo Regional Arts Association’s annual gala, On Broadway, dined, danced, and raised their pallets in support of the professional companies and education programs at Lesher for the Center Arts.
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1. Steve and Mackenzie Lesher 2. Dennis Winslow and Bonnie Waters 3. Scott Denison and Kerri Shawn 4. Tamara Gerlach and Mark Hall 5. Elizabeth Schrag, Karna Campopiano, Melanie Kress, and Meg Honey 6. Chris Schneider, Bob Power, and Rei Maks 7. Michael and Peggy White and Lauren and Derek Lux 8. Robinson Nguyen, Denise Salgado, Craig Eller, Yvonne Nilsen, Debbie Dimich, Daniel Nunez, Monica Lee, Anthony Alamillo
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JACK’S: This restaurant has a warm vibe and big bar. Souvlaki and spanakopita honor the owners' Greek heritage; an eclectic international menu featuring pasta, steak and breakfasts. 60 Crescent Dr., Pleasant Hill, 849-6195, jacksrestaurants.com. SILK ROAD: Good food served in a sunny patio setting. House
favorites are kabobs, gyros and falafels, but save room, you can make a meal from the appetizer plate served with piping hot pita bread. 1440 N. Main St., 932-9090, silkroadwalnutcreek.com.
SEAFOOD SCOTT'S: Elegant surroundings, attentive service and good food. They also do a lavish Sunday brunch, catering and social events. 1333 N California Blvd., 934-1300, scottsrestaurants.com.
WALNUT CREEK YACHT CLUB: For over 15 years, WCYC has been cultivating customers with its lobster and crab feasts, fresh oysters, and fresh fish. The restaurant’s specialties — killer cocktails and phenomenal fish —attract barflies and foodies alike. 1555 Bonanza St., 944-3474, walnutcreekyachtclub.com. YANKEE PIER: Bustling seafood house has an East Coast vibe
and a menu featuring fresh-shucked oysters, an array of grilled fish, popcorn shrimp, and beer-battered clams. House-made desserts and full bar. 3593 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, 283-4100, yankeepier.com.
SOUTH AMERICAN Peruvian / Spanish / Brazilian PARADA: While the menu offers a diverse selection, the ceviche
is a must. Fresh fish is marinated in lemon juice and chilies and served with toasted corn nuts and spiced sweet potato. Rotisserie chickens are also a big seller, along with mac n cheese. 7001 Sunne Lane, 448-8118, paradakitchen.com.
SABORES DEL SUR: Chilean cuisine reigns at this north Walnut Creek eatery. You can't go wrong the robust empanadas stuffed with meat or vegetarian fillings inside fresh, flaky pastry dough. 3003 Oak Rd., 954-8300, saboresdelsursf.com. TELEFERIC BARCELONA: Walnut Creek's newest Spanish hot spot serves tasty bites known as pinxtos, ahi tuna swabbed in wasabi sauce, along with fresh paella and steak in a stunning atmosphere. 1500 Mt. Diablo Blvd., 451-9576, telefericbarcelona.com. LIMON: Famous for their rotisserie chicken, ceviche, and paella, the food here takes diners on a delicious journey of Latin discovery. 1524 Locust Street, limonrotisserie.com. 64
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DELIs / cafés
salads / soups / sandwiches CREPES OOH LA LA: Thin pancakes made the Parisian way,
poured on a hot griddle and spread to thinness. Range of toppings for sweet and savory palates. 1548 Locust St., 944-5790.
GENOVA: Italian meats, fresh ravioli and sauces. Take a number;
fans line-up for the fresh sandwiches at lunch. Two WC locations: 1105 S. California Blvd., 939-3838 and 2064 Treat Blvd., 938-2888. genovadeli.net.
KINDER'S MEATS: Specialties at this family-run favorite include marinated ball tip, tequila-lime ribs, and barbecue chicken doused in signature sauce. 1831 Ygnacio Valley Road and 1293 Parkside Drive, kindersmeats.com. MORUCCI'S: Fans travel from several towns away for these savory sandwiches. Try the 6 3/4: turkey, tomato and fresh mozzarella on ciabatta, pastrami or the popular chicken Caesar sandwich. 1218 Boulevard Way, 939-2426. MR. PICKLES: This little sandwich shop serves up flavor-packed sandwiches at great prices. Big enough to split, bread is baked fresh and packed with your favorite fillings. 1991 N. Broadway, 280-5510, mrpicklesinc.com.
sweets, treaTs and bakeries CREAM: The winning combination of ice cream sandwiched between two warm cookies can't be beat. Neither can its superfriendly price of $3 or creative combos like double chocolate chip with peanut butter. 1372 N Main St., 891-4041, creamnation.com. LOTTIE'S CREAMERY: Scoops are packed with fresh ingredients at this ice cream parlor, where everything, including the cones, is made in-house. 1414 Main Street, 472-0723, lottiescreamery.com. NOAH'S BAGELS: Neighborhood deli serves fresh-baked bagels, sandwiches and home-style soups. Two Walnut Creek locations: 1930 Mt. Diablo Boulevard and 730 Bancroft Road, noahs.com.
SAN FRANCISCO CREAMERY: Perfect for birthdays and celebrations, serving up ice cream and toppings the old fashioned way. 1370 Locust St., 926-0228, sanfranciscocreameryco.com. SWEET AFFAIR BAKERY: Sandwiches are legendary here, so are
the morning buns, cream cheese croissants and array of muffins, cakes and cookies that make this a mainstay for over 30 years. 1815 Ygnacio Valley Rd., 944-1910, asweetaffairbakery.com.
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event scene
oktoberfest civic park photography by jessica freels
Downtown Walnut Creek welcomed fall with a beer and brat party in Civic Park. A spirited event, guests celebrated in colorful Bavarian attire.
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2018 celebrate john muir health photography by rachel capil 3 4
John Muir Health’s 6th annual fundraising event, Celebrate John Muir Health!, raised a record $2.25 million dollars to support its “Out of This World” Neurosciences Services. The sold-out gala was attended by more than 700 guests who enjoyed a stellar dinner, dancing, and live auction.
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1. Jason Raddatz was ready for lift-off 2. Ravi Hundal, M.D. 3. Gala Co-Chair Margie Murphy 4. Mistress of Ceremonies Ann Notarangelo 5. Gala Co-Chair Maureen Knight 6. Kathleen and Brad Jensen, Rick and Liz Vandenberg 7. Guests gathered in a galaxy faraway
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8. Linda Womack and Kelly Roberts channeled Star Wars 9. More than 50 John Muir Health employees volunteered at the event 10. Lisa Hofmann 11. John Muir Health President and CEO, Cal Knight 12. Susan and Mark Tu, M.D.; Vivian Wing, M.D., Laura Tabatabi, M.D. and Aseem Rawal, M.D. 13. Alice Hunter, M.D. raises her paddle 14. Grateful patients, Vicki Goodwin and Shawn Ferron, shared their stories
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event scene
macy's Diablo Ballet show 2018 photography by josh isaacs
Walnut Creek Magazine and Macy’s celebrated 25 years of Diablo Ballet at a spectacular Saturday morning fashion show where guests were treated to generous swag and delicious food catered by Sunrise Bistro.
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