PET ETIQUETTE KEEP IT COOL IN PUBLIC
SIP & SAVOR SONOMA COUNTY GETAWAY
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Visit shadowbrookwinery.com and make your Appointment today! One Meritage Lane, Walnut Creek, CA 94598. Just off Northgate Road at the base of Mt. Diablo.
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CHEAP EATS Frequenting one of Walnut Creek’s affordable restaurants can be adventurous— a tempting selection of taco shops, burger joints, and ethnic deli’s where the price is right for lunch, dinner with the kids, or a late-night nosh. Our guide takes you on a deep dive into a sea of international flavors for under $25. Go ahead, live a little, these are some of the best deals in town.
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IN THIS ISSUE
FALL 2019
11 TALK OF THE TOWN Look back at Walnut Creek’s past through historical images. Sip award-winning wines at Shadowbrook Winery’s spectacular new tasting room. Find out about the latest restaurant news. Meet a local curvy model making a mark.
24 PET ETIQUETTE Simple rules for keeping your canine cool in public.
DOG-OBSESSED 27 MILLENIALS
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A generation infatuated with furry friends.
PET-FRIENDLY 29 GETAWAY Few places can rival Mendocino’s love for pets or its rugged coastline.
39 WHERE WHEN Get your fall culture fix with our curated guide to Bay Area art exhibits, concerts, dance shows, festivals, theater, and much more.
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+ DRINK 49 EAT HEALDSBURG Travel to the heart of Sonoma County to a sophisticated town with unparalleled accommodations, restaurants, and wine tasting bars.
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52 SAFARI WEST Spend the night with the “wild things” on a upscale glamping adventure.
53 WHAT'S IN SEASON Fall is the height of apple season, big and small are equally delicious in recipes.
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56 VISIONARY Meet renowned winemaker Dave Phinney who has set his sights on the spirits world at Mare Island.
58 DINING GUIDE The top spots to eat and drink in Walnut Creek and neighboring cities.
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FALL ISSUE 2019 PUBLISHER Pam Becker Kessler EDITOR Lauren Kessler ART DIRECTOR Carrie Wallahan WEBSITE Cale Finta PHOTOGRAPHY Jessica Freels Sarah Grunder Scott Hein Josh Isaacs Vincent James Kyle Luman CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Linda Childers Lou Fancher Sophie Johnson Kathryn McCarty Fran Miller Alison Negrin Peggy Spear 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
ON THE COVER THE ITALIAN COMBO GENOVA DELICATESSEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA FREELS
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Steps Away from World-Class Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment
WALNUT CREEK'S PREMIER ACTIVE SENIOR COMMUNITY
FARM TO TABLE CUISINE AT NEWTON’S RESTAURANT NEW STATE OF THE ART ON-SITE CINEMA NEW FITNESS CENTER OUTDOOR AQUATICS PROGRAMS DAY TRIPS, THEATER EXCURSIONS ART, TECHNOLOGY, HISTORY, AND NUTRITION CLASSES SPECIAL EVENTS, WE CELEBRATE IT ALL. Call for a Tour and Complimentary Dinner. Experience the ‘Art of Living’ with The Heritage Downtown’s Resident Artist, Trenton Gregory.
(925) 943-7427 1785 Shuey Avenue l Walnut Creek, CA 94596 l theheritagedowntown.com
FROM THE PUBLISHER
COMING UP... Best
Fall is here and it feels fabulous. We say goodbye to sweltering temperatures and welcome cool crisp weather perfect for dog walks but still warm enough to eat lunch outdoors. It’s the best produce season, the arts are back in action, there are amazing fundraisers, big openings, and intriguing exhibits at Bay Area museums. Our annual Fall Arts Preview is loaded with can't-miss performances, so be sure to check it out and purchase some tickets. For the wine industry, fall marks harvest and crush season when wineries from Walnut Creek to Sonoma and beyond enter production mode, and from what we hear, 2019 is shaping up to be an exciting year. If you can swing a weekend away in the wine country, fall is the best time to go, and there are a wealth of regions and wineries nearby to explore. In this issue we take you to Healdsburg, just over an hour away, where you’ll be charmed by a hip small town filled with tasting lounges, chic accommodations, and farm-to-table restaurants.
of 2019
You’ll also want to devour our Cheap Eats guide for a tempting selection of affordable indulgences here at home. From tacos and burgers to salads and bowls, it’s filled with international flavors and some of the best frugal finds in town.
VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE PLACES TO EAT, SHOP, PLAY!
Restaurants continue to be affected by rising rents, escalating payroll costs, and increasing competition. It’s driving some out of business while others implement new service models and expand catering operations. There is one thing you can do to support our local restaurants, eat out. Now more than ever before, Walnut Creek needs its residents to dine downtown.
10/10/19 - 11/10/19 GO TO: WALNUTCREEKMAGAZINE.COM
RESERVE YOUR ADVERTISING SPACE IN OUR MOST CELEBRATED ISSUE OF THE YEAR
Before we say goodbye, remember to go to walnutcreekmagazine.com and vote for your local favorites in our annual Best of Walnut Creek Reader’s Choice Awards. We celebrate this incredible city in our final issue of the year. Thank you for reading and supporting our advertising partners. Wishing you a wonderful fall!
Cheers!
CONTACT: publisher@walnutcreekmagazine.com
OR (925) 212-5146
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talk
OF THE TOWN
WALNUT CREEK HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Looking Back
W
hile today it’s famous for shopping and dining, Walnut Creek has a very different past as a farming and ranching community. Here are some facts you may not know about the city. Join a Walnut Creek Historical Society walking tour or schedule a visit to Shadelands Ranch Museum to discover even more. For details, go to wchistory.org. ➤
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First known as the Corners for a brief period between 1860-1861, mail was not delivered to the village until 1862 when local merchant James R. McDonald renamed it Walnut Creek. It’s uncertain how the name was chosen, whether it was borrowed from the only landmark in the area, Milo Hugh’s Walnut Creek House, or inspired by the Spanish name for the creek that flowed through the village, Arroyo de Las Nueces (Stream of Walnuts), a homage to the native black walnut trees that blanketed the area.
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After decades of ranching and farming, commerce came to the Ygnacio Valley in 1874
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when Dr. A H Rowan built a hotel and spa called Bareges Sulphur Springs. Attracting visitors from near and far, the waters at his bathhouse were reputed to have curative qualities. For $12 a week, patrons who sought relief from arthritis, gout, and other maladies received room, board, and use of the baths. A fire destroyed the resort in 1875, but the baths remained open until 1882. You can smell the odors from the subterranean Sulphur Springs today on Ygnacio Valley Road near St. John Vianney Catholic Church.
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Town physician Dr. Claude Leech married Eva in 1898 who soon became a leading socialite
in the community organizing the local chapter of the American Red Cross and becoming the first woman to serve on the City Council in 1931. The former Leech House, a registered historical landmark, still sits on Main Street near Lincoln Avenue where it houses several local businesses.
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Down the street from the Leech House, Walnut Creek Meat Market opened in 1910 with a slaughterhouse in the back, until it was moved by the Lawrence family from the brick building on Main Street to the Ygnacio Valley. Lawrence Meat Market eventually moved to Alamo where it served the East Bay for decades. It’s former home
on Main was preserved and revamped into the Japanese izakaya Sasa.
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With lights going on all over town and the first electric rail service connecting Walnut Creek to other communities, residents were ready for a party. In October 1911, a celebration called the Grape Carnival was held in honor of the region’s largest cash crop—grapes. Highlights included “aero plane” rides and a baseball game between Walnut Creek and Concord. The event was the precursor for the Walnut Festival of today. Source: Walnut Creek An Illustrated History by Brad Rovanpera
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A Toast to Walnut Creek EXPERT VITICULTURE AND CRAFTMANSHIP FIND BALANCE IN SHADOWBROOK WINES
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BY FRAN MILLER
ong before it was known for its walnut trees, Walnut Creek was known for its grapes. A preeminent growing region in the late 1800’s, grapes thrived in the temperate climate and rich soil prior to Prohibition’s decimation of local farmers’ most profitable industry. “I like to say we were Napa before Napa,” says Shadowbrook Winemaster Tim Jochner. “Walnut Creek’s Mediterranean climate is like the Rutherford region and best-suited for Bordeaux varietals. We produce very fruit-forward wines, with plenty of tannin ➤
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talk/winemaker and structure, but the varietal character of Walnut Creek’s fruit shines through without lingering soil and mineral aftertastes. Our vineyard’s proximity to Mt. Diablo means not only unbelievable views, it also plays a big role in cooling the grapes at night, something vines love,” he says. Last year Jochner made a major investment toward his goal of producing Napa-quality wines in Walnut Creek, opening an opulent 10,000-square-foot winery and tasting room off of Northgate Road. It’s the the first of its kind in the area. “My family is passionate about winemaking and we wanted to share our love for good wine with the community,” says Jochner’s daughter Carlie Jochner Gazdar, who joined the Shadowbrook team last year as tasting room and brand manager. She hosts and teaches “Vino & Vinyasa” Thursday nights on the winery’s grand lawn, handles corporate events, and by-appointment tastings. “It’s a big deal to be able to taste and enjoy award-winning Zins and Cabs close to home without making the trek to Livermore or Napa.” The family’s winemaking legacy began over a decade ago when they landscaped the barren hillside of their Shadowbrook Court home with grape vines. A few years later harvesting grapes and making their first batch of wine. “While the wine wasn’t great, it was a wonderful experience,” says Jochner. “My wife Courtney and I decided to learn how to produce wines that could someday rival Napa Valley vintages. It was 2005 when we took our deep dive into the agriculture business.” Since then, Shadowbrook has consistently won Gold, Silver and Bronze medals at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition from grapes grown and harvested on the 12-acres of their Walnut Creek vineyards. The winery specializes in Bordeaux-style red and white wines—the 2011 Jon Rae red blend sells for $58, while the 2013 Zinfandel is $38. “We grow and produce Chardonnay, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Petite Verdot, Zinfandel and Viognier,” says Jochner. “We bottle Cabernet, Merlot, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, and red blends. Our goal from the beginning has been to make great wine from grapes grown in Walnut Creek that could stand up to the best in the Napa Valley, and we continue to achieve that goal year after year.” To schedule a visit, go to shadowbrookwinery.com.
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talk
On the Horizon
HAPPENINGS, ANNOUNCEMENTS AND THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT
Restaurant News
BISTRO BOYS
The restaurant that put Walnut Creek on the wellness map, Sunrise Bistro & Catering, is moving to a yet-to-be-determined bigger location. First cousins and business partners, Owner Joe Stein and Chef Ty Pearce are on the hunt for a new home for Walnut Creek’s beloved bistro to accommodate their robust catering business. The team also plans to launch “a counter service” model at their next restaurant but keep popular favorites on the menu. The get-it-yourself approach is part of the Bay Area restaurant evolution that’s taking place as more and more owners move away from a full-service model due to rising rents and increasing labor costs.
DOWNTOWN NIGHTCLUB As Walnut Creek evolves more and more into a city-like suburb, bar and restaurant owners hope to expand the entertainment scene for young urban residents. One idea being bounced around is a “Great
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American Music Hall” concept, says Walnut Creek Downtown Executive Director Kathy Hemmenway. The vision is a place where locals and visitors can listen to live sounds and get their groove on. Finding an existing space big enough to accommodate 400-500 people is the challenge.
We’re talking tacos! Three new Mexican eateries opened downtown: Patron, Tacos Walnut Creek, and Capullo Cocina Mexicana. At Encina Grande shopping center, Taqueria Pueblo Magico opened near Rocco’s. Bierhaus is bringing German food to Locust Street—schnitzel, pork chops, and pretzels—along with seating for 100 on a spacious outdoor patio. Next door, a city task force is working on a pop-up concept and new tenant for the vacant Tender Greens space. Down the street, a charming new French café, Brioche de Paris, is welcoming October with croissants and coffee. The Burger Loft is expanding its Lafayette Burger Bistro brand and opening in the former Pomegranate space on Main Street.
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WARRIORS NEW HOME SERVES SERIOUS FOOD AND DRINK You’ve probably heard about the dynamic performances happening at San Francisco’s new Chase Center—Metallica, Elton John, and Phil Collins rocked the house this fall while A-lister Oprah Winfrey takes center stage in 2020. A first-of-its-kind for The City, the Warriors new 18,000+ seat sports arena also boasts an impressive food and drink line-up, everything from craft breweries and fried chicken sandwiches to beefy burritos and dim sum. Bakesale Betty, Big Nate’s BBQ, Food Republic, Sam’s Chowder House, Drake’s, and Triple Voodoo are some of the carefully curated restaurants and bars taking up shop at this exciting new hot spot. chasecenter.com
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talk/on the horizon
THE GREAT DRIVE-THRU DEBATE NEIGHBORHOOD GROUP OPPOSES ACCESS TO AMY'S FROM SECOND AVENUE
Design teams at Hall Equities Group are working on new traffic flow strategies and pedestrian-safety enhancements to a proposed Amy’s Drive-Thru on N. Main & 2nd Avenue. Larkey Park Neighbors United, composed primarily of residents who live on or near 2nd Avenue, object to the current plan which routes traffic in and out of their street. The group first organized in 2017 to prevent an In N Out Burger from opening on the same corner. Although zoned for a restaurant, the site requires a conditional use permit from the City of Walnut Planning Commission to construct a drive-thru.
“If the entrance is from 2nd Avenue, it will create a huge backup and we won’t be able to get in or out of the neighborhood,” says Larkey Park Neighbors United Spokesperson Patty Mitchell. “Amy’s seems like a cool business to have here; all we want to do is protect our quality of life. All we ask is that the entrance and exit reside on N. Main Street, like every other fast food restaurant on the block.” Space constraints on the corner parcel increase the likelihood that cars in queue for driveup service will overflow onto 2nd Avenue. Family-owned Amy’s Kitchen is a pioneer in the frozen vegetarian food movement
best known for pot pies, mac n cheese, and burritos. The company launched its first drive-thru in Rohnert Park earlier this year. North Main Street’s fast food corridor provides a good environment to find out if commuters will choose a vegetarian meal over beef burgers and fried chicken. Deb Karbo, Executive Vice President & Chief Development Officer at Hall Equities Group, says her team is reevaluating the site and working on circulation, pedestrian safety, and car stacking issues. “We are listening to feedback from city officials and neighbors to make the plan better and better.” Stay tuned.
TRICK OR TREAT THE HORROR, THE THRILL, THE CANDY… HERE ARE FEW MUST-DOS FOR YOUR SCARY RADAR Legendary Winchester Mystery House presents a new seasonal scare in never-before-accessed rooms of the house where restless spirits and other nail-biting surprises dwell. This show is not appropriate for young children. winchestermysteryhouse.com. Jack London Square hosts Boo! Bark, Brews + Bites, a funfilled Halloween celebration for pets and their humans filled with tricks,
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treats, frights, and delights. Live music, a beer and wine garden, and an unforgettable canine costume contest. October 26, jacklondonsquare.com. Little ghouls and goblins can show off their spooky spirits during trick or treat in Downtown Walnut Creek on October 25 (walnutcreekdowntown.com) and at Broadway Plaza on Halloween. (broadwayplaza.com)
VOTE NOW!
walnutcreekmagazine.com
BEST OF
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READER’S CHOICE AWARDS October 10 - November 10, 2019 Celebrate the city. Nominate your favorite places to eat, drink, shop, and play. Winners announced in our Best of Walnut Creek 2019 issue.
talk/profile
S
OWN IT
THANKS TO SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCERS, CURVY MODELS ARE REDEFINING INDUSTRY STANDARDS he’s bright, beautiful, and curvy. A recent journalism graduate from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, swimsuit modeling was not always on Gabriella Halikas’ radar until about a year ago when she posted a bathing suit video on her storytelling YouTube channel “Keeping Up with Ella.” Within minutes she added 7000 new subscribers. Today it has been viewed almost one million times. “People were commenting on my body and asking how I could be so confident,” says Halikas. “Why is it that only thin people can feel confident about their bodies?” Halikas is no longer a rookie when it comes to posing in swimsuits. The 22-year-old models for Andi Bagus and BlackBough swimwear and recently signed with Scout Modeling Agency
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in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Scout is expanding their curve division and advancing body positivity for plus-size women in the industry. It wasn’t too long ago that only models who wore a size four or smaller had a chance to launch a career. Thanks to social media platforms like Instagram, and influencers like Ashley Graham and Iskra Lawrence, curvy models are not only gaining acceptance, they’re building huge brands, making money, and redefining industry standards. “At first, I was comparing myself to others, but now I don’t. Once you change your mind set about your body, your weight, and your health, happiness, and confidence flows from within.” –PK
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PET
ETIQUETTE SIMPLE RULES FOR KEEPING YOUR CANINE COOL OUT IN PUBLIC
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BY LINDA CHILDERS
ou’re dining on a restaurant patio when a dog, belonging to the people at the next table, begins barking incessantly. Or maybe you’re shopping downtown when you see a dog relieving itself in the doorway of your favorite store. Being respectful of your surroundings are necessary elements of stress-free public outings, says Ann Marie Caffrey, owner of Caffrey’s Canine Care. In other words, practice good manners and be mindful of other people. “A dog that’s well-trained and well-cared- for at home will behave best in public,” Caffrey says. “Your dog is a family member and looks to you for leadership. Consider how a shopping center appears from a dog’s perspective: do crowds make your pet tense or does fido thrive on making new friends?” If it’s not a fit, leave your co-pilot at home.
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Canine life coach Mo Lynch Vashel and Caffrey weigh in on pet etiquette basics:
REMEMBER YOUR DOG IS A GUEST. While it’s fun to take your
pup to a shop or a restaurant, pay attention to your dog’s body language in the surroundings. “Respecting fellow shoppers means respecting their space,” Caffrey says. “Don’t let your dog jump on people. It’s perfectly ok to say no to strangers who want to pet your animal if he/she is feeling tense.”
BE PREPARED TO CLEAN UP. Contra Costa Animal Services notes that pooper-scooper laws are critical for both the health and the beautification of a community. Canine diseases and parasites are often shed in feces, and no one enjoys maneuvering through unsightly piles of dog waste. Caffrey suggests carrying a plastic poop bag and several paper towels when taking your pup to a public place. “Relieve your dog in a quiet, off-thebeaten path area,” Vashel says. “Don’t allow them to do their duty in front of a store or restaurant.” ➤
JESSICA FREELS P H OTOG R A P H Y
PORTRAITS SPORTS SPECIAL EVENTS
J E S S I C A F R E E L S @ AOL .COM
fall 2019 / walnut creek
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talk/pets KEEP YOUR DOG LEASHED. Not only is this
a smart practice, it’s also the law. Contra Costa Animal Services requires dogs to be leashed unless they’re on your property or at a dog park with off-leash conditions. This practice also prevents your pet from approaching people or other dogs. “If your dog has the desire to engage with another dog, ask the other owner first,”
Vashel says. “Don’t let the dogs rush towards each other. Socializing is important, but not necessarily appropriate in a shopping and dining environment.”
BE RESPECTFUL. “Many business owners
welcome customers with dogs, but nonservice animals in public areas can be a big problem,” Vashel says, “especially
DOG PARK CONFIDENTIAL
WHEN YOUR POOCH WANTS TO PLAY, TAKE HER ON AN ADVENTURE IN THE EAST BAY.
if they don’t have good manners.” Stores with signs stating, “Service Pets Only” should be respected, even if your pooch is well-behaved. “Service animals need to safely focus on their job and personal pets can unwittingly interfere with their purpose,” she says. “I’d like to see these boundaries respected more to ensure the safety of both service pets and shoppers.”
BANISH THE BARK. Restaurant policies vary, so call ahead before assuming you can dine on the outdoor patio with your canine. “If you’re eating out and your dog starts barking, offer them a treat to refocus their attention,” Caffrey says. “If your dog is very reactive in public settings, get socialization training before venturing into crowded public settings.”
MIND THE HEAT. Temps in Walnut
POINT ISABEL REGIONAL SHORELINE
SUNOL REGIONAL WILDERNESS
RICHMOND
FREMONT
Water-loving dogs can splash to their wagging tails' content at this 21-acre park with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Marin County. Humans can fly kites, watch birds, and picnic, but for most dogs, it's all about the offleash access to the water.
There's perhaps no place else you can go in the East Bay that seems so far away from the world within a 45-minute drive of Walnut Creek. And while you explore Alameda Creek, your pal gets to roam around with you leash-free.
HEATHER FARM PARK WALNUT CREEK
Big and little dogs romp carefreely here, each with their own special fenced areas. Great community meeting spot and place to spark new conversations with other pet owners too. HAP MCGEE RANCH PARK DANVILLE
The canine corral has a cult-like following, especially among parents who can entertain their dogs and their kids at the same park. A water feature is popular on warm days after a walk around the 16-acre picturesque park.
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DEL VALLE
REDWOOD REGIONAL PARK
LIVERMORE
OAKLAND
Does your dog like to hike? There are 3,900 acres to do it in. Is she a swimmer? People and pooches can dip in the lake year-round. A hotdog lover? Dogs are welcome at all 150 camp sites.
The trails at this stunningly beautiful park are canopied with huge trees, providing coveted shade on a blistering day. Nearly every walker and jogger along these wide trails has a dog, and at some points, it’s wide enough to toss a ball around.
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Creek can reach triple digits, creating an uncomfortable environment for furry friends. “Don’t leave your dog in a car, even if you’re just running into the store for a minute,” Vashel says. “A car can reach 120 degrees in seven minutes when the weather outside is 70 degrees.” Caffrey recommends keeping a portable water bowl and bottled water in the car for outings. And think twice before leaving your dog alone. “Tying your dog up outside a store isn’t fair,” Vashel says. “Your pet may encounter a person who doesn’t like dogs or in the most devastating scenario, your best friend gets stolen while you’re shopping for food.”
FIVE SECOND RULE Vashel recom-
mends the “five second rule” for testing heat by putting your hand on the pavement or concrete. “If you can’t leave your hand down for five seconds because it’s scorching, then it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. I’ve also seen people putting booties on paws when it’s hot. Dogs cool off naturally through their paws, so putting booties on in hot weather increases the risk of heatstroke. Booties are meant for snow, so when used in summer you’re taking away an essential cooling system.”
WHY ARE MILLENIALS SO DOG OBSESSED? THESE FURRY CREATURES ARE MORE THAN CUTE COMPANIONS—THEY’RE A SUBSTITUTE FOR CHILDREN. As a generation, millennials (ages 22-37) are infatuated with dogs. For someone single and career-minded, who can't imagine life five years ahead let alone having a baby, a dog is an achievable goal. A recent Adweek study found that 44 percent of millennials see pets as "practice" for babies later in life, while others consider pets a new form of parenthood. Data from a 2016 study revealed San Francisco has more dogs than it has children—116,000 compared to 150,000—numbers that have probably soared along with apartment rents and home values. Millennials say dogs provide companionship, emotional support, security, and a sense of home. Nowhere is this trend more evident than in the billion-dollar pet industry which has grown three-fold since 1996, expected to hit $281 billion by 2023. According to the Washington Post, in 2018 Americans spent $11 billion on pet-pampering alone. Most millennials—76 percent—say they are more likely to “splurge” on expensive outfits for their pets than something for themselves. The doggiest generation—three out of four adults in their 30s own dogs—are also influencing where pets live and play by increasing access to apartment rentals, restaurants, stores, and resorts. The truth is that apart from their daily walks and regular food, dogs don’t ask for much, and give unconditional love. –CASSIDY MCCLEAN
SCRIPTWORKS STORY #73
Amidst the devastation of the Camp Fire, we sprang into action. When Dr. Stacey Holz, Veterinarian, called during the 2018 Camp Fire, she had a very special request. While dogs can be leashed and led to safety during a fire, cats tend to hide. In the town of Paradise, where the fire moved so quickly, there were badly burned feline survivors. Stacey asked us to help create a custom burn gel with Manuka Honey, a special honey from New Zealand known for its healing properties. Our pharmacists crafted the formula, and within 24 hours of the call, Dr. Holz’s team picked it up. The gel worked beautifully. Thank you for making that call, Dr. Holz. We love solving problems with customized medicine.
480 N. Wiget Lane • Walnut Creek
925-934-4400 • scriptworksrx.com
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EVENTS
2019 Mark Your Calendars & Come Join Us!
CALENDAR FIRST WEDNESDAYS May 1, June 5, July 3, August 7, September 4 WALNUT CREEK UNCORKED June 20 MUSIC & MOVIES UNDER THE STARS August 16, September 20 OKTOBERFEST October 19 TRICK OR TREAT October 25 WALNUT CREEK ON ICE November HOLIDAY STROLL December 6
walnutcreekdowntown.com
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pet-friendly getaway
Califor nia's Secret Corner
FEW PLACES CAN RIVAL MENDOCINO’S RUGGED COASTLINE
W
ind your way from the East Bay to Highway 128, a country road that curves through epicurean communities like Booneville, Pinot Noir vineyards in Anderson Valley, and fragrant forests of redwood trees. Head north to Highway 1 where the Pacific Ocean’s crashing waves provide the backdrop for pet-friendly, posh resorts and a blissful weekend getaway. Fall and early winter
are good seasons to go to Mendocino, when the local event calendar is packed with foodie festivals including the Mushroom Feast in November and Crab Competition in January. While plenty of destinations are ideal for soulful weekend retreats, none quite parallel the 37-acre coastal property and breathtaking views at The Heritage House Resort. ➤
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talk
Located on the bluffs in Little River, just outside Mendocino, this historic spot opened in 1949 after the original 1877 New England-style farmhouse was converted into a small inn. It grew over time and became famous as the setting for the 1978 film "Same Time, Next Year," starring Alan Alda and Ellen Burstyn. Newly transformed suites blend rustic and contemporary elements in spacious interiors. Soak in your deep tub or lounge on your private deck with a glass of wine. Explore the scenic grounds, hike down to the secluded beach, or sip a cocktail in the lounge before a sumptuous meal of fresh scallops or ranch lamb chops—pups are welcome to join you. When it’s time for a jaunt, charming Mendocino Village is only a few minutes away where art galleries, boutiques, and
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eateries line the New England-style streets. A visit to Harvest Market on Lansing Street is a must for handcrafted honey and farmstead chèvre. Afterwards, head to the sprawling Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens and meander 47-acres of colorful rhododendrons, fuchsias, dahlias, magnolias, heather, and succulents with your leashed furry pet.
For lunch with the locals, Sea Pal Cove, in the picturesque fishing village of Noyo Harbor, is famous for their decadent fish n chips and clam chowder. While waiting for your order on the outdoor pier, check out the fisherman cleaning their fresh catch. Don't leave without eating at Wild Fish, a tiny oceanside hideaway on Highway 1 in Little River known for its creatively prepared locally caught fish. Cool misty California coastal mornings often turn into warm sunny days, so plan to dress in layers, regardless of the time of year you visit. To plan your getaway, go to visitmendocino.com–PK
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HERITAGE EAT'S GRILLED SHRIMP SALAD BOWL AND FRIES
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P A E H C S T A E From Burmese tea leaf salads and Italian deli sandwiches to Mexican grilled shrimp bowls and Chicago-style hot dogs, there are a lot of delicious cuisines to eat in Walnut Creek. We’ve found some great places, with unbeatable calorie-to-cash ratios, where you can dive into a sea of international flavors for under $25. Go ahead, live a little, your taste buds will thank you.
BY THE WALNUT CREEK MAGAZINE TEAM PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA FREELS, SARAH GRUNDER, AND KYLE LUMAN
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cheap eats
BRODERICK
1548 BONANZA STREET The Price: $14-$16 burgers, $10 Banh Mi fries
HERITAGE EATS
24 BROADWAY LANE The Price: $10-$20 tacos, wraps, and bowls This fast-casual restaurant’s Med Falafel Wraps are already standard for grab-and-go noshing at Broadway Plaza. The pita-swaddled bundle of falafel, greens, quinoa tabbouleh, slaw, cucumber, lemon tahini, and tzatziki amps up with a spicy sauce ($9.70). Dirty fries are a game changer: pulled pork, cheese, boom sauce ($8.54), and even lower calorie options like the Grilled Shrimp Salad perk your palate topped with slaw, Pico, corn, pickled onion, and creamy cilantro dressing ($11.55). Makes Cents: Free waffle fries with adult meals M-F; Kids (12U) eat free on Mondays.
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This edgy gastropub dishes up scratch made, over-the-top burgers, fries, and wings. The juicy Johnny Cash boasts a ½ pound of Angus Beef topped with cheddar cheese, applewood bacon, sweet peppers, fried onion crisps ($15.50.) A fabulous Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich is doused in sriracha Bleu cheese sauce, bacon, pickles, lettuce, and tomato ($15). Naked fries accompany burgers. Extra napkins required. Makes Cents: Buffalo wings ($7), sliders ($9), and well-cocktails ($4) during Happy Hour.
2910 YGNACIO VALLEY ROAD
CALIFORNIA FISH GRILL The Price: Grilled fish and two sides $8.79-$13.99
It’s a franchise and a good one. Twenty-eight locations and growing. The contemporary menu is deliberately simple, offering about a dozen species of fish and shellfish, including scallops, all sustainably sourced. Order at the counter, find a comfy booth, then relish in the laid-back atmosphere. This is a delicious place for seafood lovers who want to please their palate, and their wallet. Makes Cents: Kid’s get grilled/ fried chicken or shrimp with a side of fries for $4.75.
BOUDIN
12 BROADWAY LANE The Price: $7.99-$9.99 chowder and chili soup bowls Gluten and carbs may be out of fashion, but you’d never know it from the hordes of Broadway Plaza shoppers who line up at Boudin for a taste of San Francisco. Freshly baked sourdough bread bowls are filled with piping hot white clam chowder in iconic Fisherman Wharf fashion. If you’re feeling adventurous, head to the bakery’s mothership on Jefferson Street in SF and watch the bread bowls being made. Makes Cents: Make it a combo. Add a half sandwich to your order for $9.99 or salad for $11.39.
THE CHEESESTEAK SHOP 1626 CYPRESS STREET
The Price: $5.49 to $11.59 classic to king-size hoagies Thinly sliced beef. Gooey melted cheese. Peppers and onions. A crispy-doughy roll. In truth, there's not that much to Philadelphia's famous sandwich, but
cheesesteak, originally created in the 1930s, is still heartily satisfying after all these years. Simple ingredients come together in sinful harmony at The Cheesesteak Shop where a mushroom rendition is nearly as good as the classic. Makes Cents: Make it a combo with seasoned fries and a soda for an extra $3.
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cheap eats
NOAH’S BAGELS
1930 MT. DIABLO/COUNTRYWOOD SHOPPING CENTER ON BANCROFT The Price: $1.49 NY-style bagel, add shmear for $1.69 It’s the closest we come to the real deal without schlepping to Berkeley. A fresh-baked Noah’s bagel layered with crème cheese, lox, tomato, capers, cucumber, and onion ($8.48) is a delicious hands-on experience. Order a sweet chewy cinnamon raisin or heavily sprinkled everything. There are over 20 kinds of bagels baked here daily. Makes Cents: Get a dozen to freeze at home. The Bakers Box includes two shmears for $15.75.
MIXED GRAINS
The Price: $7-$10 small plates, $12 rice bowls, $18-$22 BBQ
1615 BONANZA STREET
Fresh ingredients and spicy chili paste have an invigorating effect in Bibimbap bowls filled with fluffy rice, colorful vegetables, and creamy egg. Sweet and tender barbecued beef short ribs come with white or purple rice. Korean condiments called banchan complement the meal: kimchee, spicy cucumber, seaweed salad, and pickled daikon. Makes Cents: Mini noodle bowls for kids $7.
GENOVA DELICATESSEN
1105 S. CALIFORNIA BLVD. AND COUNTRYWOOD SHOPPING CENTER ON TREAT BLVD. The Price: $7.99-$12.99 made-to-order sandwiches The Italians know their food and Genova’s is our little slice of heaven. For decades, they’ve been slicing Mortadella, roast beef, Genoa salami, pastrami, and prosciutto on custom grinders and stuffing them with cheese (+$2), pickles, peppers, lettuce, and tomato. Pull a number, pick a fresh roll from the bin, and place your order. Sandwiches are big enough to split, so grab a couple of salads on the side. Makes Cents: Devour a delicate cannoli for dessert ($4.99).
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STADIUM PUB
1420 LINCOLN AVENUE
BABALOU’S
1645 BONANZA STREET
The Price: Hot dogs about $5; Add garlic cheese fries $6.49.
The Price: $5.50-$10.95 salads, wraps, gyros, and kabobs.
Around for decades, Stadium Pub, with its wall-to-wall sports memorabilia, has all the sights, smells and sounds you’d expect from a well-worn sports bar, including kosher-style hot dogs made with Vienna Beef. You can’t go wrong with The Original ($4.49) on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, relish, onions, fresh tomato, and a dill pickle spear. Add hot sport peppers if you dare.
A playful atmosphere attracts a casual crowd looking for an affordable Middle Eastern menu featuring aromatic meats and tempting salads. Lamb shawarma tossed in tahini is stuffed in a griddled lavash wrap with onions, yogurt, and hot chili sauce. Add feta cheese ($1.75). Silky hummus, rich baba ghanoush, and lemony tabbouleh are a few of the salad choices.
Makes Cents: Taco Tuesday touts $2 tacos, $2 pints and $2 margaritas. Friday Fish Fry features beer battered Icelandic cod, fries and coleslaw for $12.49.
SABORES DEL SUR
3003 OAK GROVE ROAD The Price: $5.75-$6.75 empanadas, $2.50 alfajores She built her reputation on dreamy alfajores (cookies filled with dulce leche), but Chileannative Chef Guisell Osorio also constructs savory empanadas that deserve the same love. At
Makes Cents: Falafel balls are $1.95 for three; Dolma $2.50 for four.
her outpost on Oak Grove Road, authentic South American dishes are drawing diners from across the Bay Area. Plump, perfectly baked chicken, veggie and beef empanadas are the main attraction, easy to devour alone or with a hearty bowl of chickpea soup. Makes Cents: A box of 12 small alfajores makes a nice gift at $12.95.
BURMA 2
1616 N. MAIN STREET The Price: $10-$12 appetizers, $15-$18 entrees Delicious and complex, Burmese cuisine is a melting pot of flavors. Tea leaf salad ($12) is a standout—shredded romaine tossed with yellow beans, peanuts, seeds, fried garlic, jalapenos, and pungent tea leaves. It’s a tasty dish for lunch, add samosas and chicken curry at dinner. Makes Cents: M-F lunch entrees ($12-13) come with coconut rice.
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cheap eats
KEVIN’S NOODLE HOUSE 2034 NORTH MAIN STREET
The Price: $7.50-$10.75 Pho bowls High energy and bold flavors, along with cold beer, make this casual restaurant a worthy destination. Pho (classic Vietnamese noodle soup) is offered in three sizes and 18 variations. A tasty mix of meat, chicken, and/or seafood in robust broth (beef is the best) with stalks of basil leaves and noodles. Spike it with plenty of sriracha sauce. Add some refreshing shrimp rolls ($7.75) on the side to what might be the best deal in our food-crazy city. Makes Cents: Kid-size Pho is $5.25.
TACOS WALNUT CREEK 1690 LOCUST STREET
The Price: Tacos ($3-$5), Burritos ($6-$12), Fajitas ($14.75-$16.75) The unofficial national dish of Mexico gets an authentic lift at this family-owned taqueria that moved into the former Andy’s Sushi spot over the summer. Locals are lining up for classics like the El Pastor
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SLICE HOUSE
1500 MT. DIABLO smothered in grilled onions, cilantro, pineapple, and chipotle salsa ($3), and the Spider, cheese stuffed corn tortillas with whole beans, tomatillo sauce and avocado ($4.75). Plates are rounded out with rice and beans for an additional charge; self-serve chips and salsa are on the house. Makes Cents: Feed your kids a cheese quesadilla with rice and beans for $7.50.
The Price: $5.35-$7.00 slices Grab-n-go devotees got lucky when pizza champion Tony Gemignani opened an East Bay outpost in downtown Walnut Creek. Slice House dishes a daily pizza special and popular classics like The Grandma, a well-oiled, mozzarella and tomato square pan pie. Makes Cents: Meatballs are three for $5; Wings nine for $14; Chocolate chips three for $6.
where & when FALL ARTS PREVIEW
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where & when
1
JAMES TISSOT: FASHION & FAITH
Original works from one of the 19th centuries most celebrated French artists are on display at San Francisco’s Legion of Honor in a retrospective show that portrays the breadth of Tissot’s (1836–1902) talent. The exhibition is a collaboration with the Musées d’Orsay et de l’Orangerie in Paris. October 12-February 9, SF, famsf.org.
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NO SPECTATORS: THE ART OF BURNING MAN
Nairy Baghramian, Retainer, 2013
Spectacular artwork and large-scale installations from one of the world's most celebrated cultural events kicks-off the Oakland Museum of California's 50th Anniversary season. Learn about Burning Man's origins, values of inclusivity, community, and creativity from its counterculture roots in the Bay Area to Nevada’s Black Rock Desert. October 12-February 16, SF, museumca.org.
Faith Ringgold, American People Series, “The Flag is Bleeding” 1967
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SOFT POWER
During the Reagan era, culture, political values, and foreign policies were among the country's "soft" assets considered more influential than violence or coercion. This SFMOMA exhibition underscores the power of artists exercising their roles as citizens and social actors. October 26-February 17, sfmoma.org.
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SOUL OF A NATION: ART IN THE AGE OF BLACK POWER Celebrating works created by African American artists during pivotal decades in history (1963–1983), Soul of a Nation captures a turbulent time when race and identity were central issues. Beginning at the height of the Civil Rights Movement, images in the show reflect the strength, solidarity, and struggle of black artists. November 9-March 15, de Young museum, SF, famsf.org.
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where & when
6
SIGNAL
A massive public artwork, made from 36 tons of Bay Bridge, sits on the western edge of Treasure Island. The interactive sculpture, by San Francisco-based artist Tom Loughlin, is part of the Bay Bridge Steel Program which awarded 15 artists, architects, and design professionals some of the coveted steel with the mission of transforming it into public art. signalsf.com.
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MOZART & HIS MENTOR
California Symphony presents Mozart’s Symphony No. 1 with Haydn’s Symphony No. 10 in a riveting fall performance conducted by Donato Cabrera. The concert features Mozart’s first symphony, which the child prodigy wrote at age eight and his mentor's final symphony, written when Haydn was 63. November 16 - 17, WC, lesherartscenter.org.
OFF MENU: CONTEMPORARY ART ABOUT FOOD
Bedford Gallery’s season opens with art about food. Off Menu celebrates the humor and irony of food art genres, while also exploring how artists use food art to define global cultures and social issues. Food tells a story about how we live. October 6-December 15, WC, bedfordgallery.org.
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WHAT SWEETER MUSIC
Sing-along to the sounds of Diablo Symphony Orchestra at a joyous holiday concert performed with the Blackhawk Chorus. This fun program is a perfect way to introduce symphony music to the whole family. December 7-8, WC Presbyterian Church, diablosymphony.org.
9 SF INTERNATIONAL HIP HOP FESTIVAL
Now in its 21st year, this high energy festival presented by Bay Area hip-hop legend Micaya attracts companies from all over the globe in groundbreaking dance performances. Get ready to groove. November 22-24, Palace of Fine Arts, SF, sfhiphopdancefest.com.
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where & when
10 THE PRESIDIO THEATRE
For the first time in 24 years. the 1939 Presidio Theatre, located on the Main Post of San Francisco’s historic military base, opened its doors for a season of eclectic performances. Fresh from a $30 million renovation, the building boasts a 600-seat theater for live music, plays, dance, film, and lectures. Once a social hub for service members, it has hosted some of the biggest names in show business. presidiotheatre.org.
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THE CHRISTMAS BALLET
Smuin’s holiday tradition returns with a magical performance of classical and contemporary dances set to festive tunes: classical ballet danced to beloved carols red-hot tap and jazz numbers set to pop favorites. November 22-23, Lesher Center for the Arts, WC, smuinballet.org.
13 12 A SWINGIN’ HOLIDAY Diablo Ballet’s 26th Season opens with a swinging holiday dance show performed to the live sounds of the company's swing orchestra. November 8-10, Del Valle Theatre, WC, diabloballet.org.
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TESTMATCH
Tony Award-winning ACT Artistic Director Pam MacKinnon leads her cast in a scorching world premiere about cricket, a game of strict rules and hidden violence. Asking hard-hitting questions about colonialism, gender, and power, the show promises to provoke conversation. October 24–December 8, SF, act-sf.org.
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PRISCILLA, QUEEN OF THE DESERT, THE MUSICAL
Contra Costa Musical Theatre takes the Lesher Center stage with an entertaining story of two drag queens and a transgender woman who perform at a resort town in a remote Australian desert. It’s a flamboyant, disco-fueled journey of self-discovery. October 11 – November 9, WC, lesherartscenter.org.
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where & when
15 HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD
This new play by Jack Thorne follows an adult Harry Potter in his life as an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic, husband, and father of three school-age children. The show is performed at The Curran in two parts, which you can see on the same day or at separate performances. October 23 -May 2020, sfcurran.com.
16 MACBETH
When determined to fulfill a prophecy of greatness, ambition is brutal. Macbeth’s hunger for power consumes all he holds dearly. William Shakespeare’s cautionary tale of unbridled ambition closes out Cal Shakes theatrical season. Through October 13, Bruns Amphitheater, Orinda, calshakes.org.
THE LEGEND OF GEORGIA MCBRIDE
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Town Hall Theatre opens its 75th Anniversary season with a gender bending, heartfelt celebration of divas. Cindy Goldfield directs this comedy about a young Elvis impersonator who transforms himself into a platform-pump-panty-hose-wearing drag queen. Through October 19, Lafayette, townhalltheatre.com.
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where & when
THE GREAT WAVE
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Berkeley Rep’s Mark Wing-Davey directs the American premiere of a Francis Turnly thriller. Spanning 20+ years and two continents, The Great Wave is a riveting story of the unshakable bonds between a mother, a daughter, and a sister who refuse to give up hope. Through October 27, berkeleyrep.org.
18 TOP GIRLS
It’s the most unforgettable dinner party you’ll ever attend. ACT performs a modern classic by Caryl Churchill that dissects feminism and the cost of progress in Margaret Thatcher’s Britain, a country divided by class, cruelty, and capitalism. Through October 13, Geary Theatre, SF, ACT-sf.org.
20 HOT MIKADO
42nd Street Moon takes the Gilbert and Sullivan operetta masterpiece and amps it up with a killer jazz interpretation that is performed by a multicultural cast who will have you dancing in the aisles! Through October 13, SF, 42ndstmoon.org.
21 WHITE NOISE
Two 30-something couples are confronted by a racially motivated incident with the police. They make a radical proposition that forever alters their relationships and their world view. Jaki Bradley directs Berkeley Rep in the West Coast premiere of this uncompromising new drama. Through November 10, berkeleyrep.org.
HAMILTON
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This winner of 11 Tony Awards has extended its San Francisco stay. The story of America's Founding Father Alexander Hamilton features a blend of hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B, and Broadway. Listen to America then, sung by America now. Through January 5, shnsf.com.
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eat + drink
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JASON JAACKS
HEALDSBURG UNPARALLELED INDULGENCES LIE AHEAD IN SONOMA’S HIPPEST SMALL TOWN Located in the heart of the Sonoma Valley, a little over an hour from Walnut Creek, Healdsburg has long been a draw for oenophiles who prefer a slightly less commercial experience than Napa. At the center of three world-class wine growing regions—the Russian River, Alexander and Dry Creek Valley—new tasting rooms are popping up downtown at a record pace including Selby, La Crema, Banshee, Kendall Jackson, Seghesio, and Ferrari-Carano. ➤ fall 2019 / walnut creek
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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SONOMA COUNTY TOURISM
eat + drink/healdsburg
Even as Healdsburg has evolved over the past decade into a chic hamlet drawing star chefs, vintners, hoteliers, and restaurateurs from around the globe, it manages to retain an authentic and down-toearth welcoming vibe. If anything solidified the town’s sophisticated shift it was the opening of Relais & Chateaux’s sophisticated Hotel Les Mars in 2005. Sixteen elegantly appointed rooms envelope discriminating guests in ultimate luxury. The only Forbes-rated property in Sonoma County, the hotel is an oasis of old school European charm and genuine hospitality. Spacious rooms
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feature deep hydrotherapy tubs, gas fireplaces, and colossal down pillows on four-poster antique beds. A French breakfast is served in-room and afternoon wine and cheese are paired in the lobby. Complimentary tours and tastings at proprietor Bill Foley’s wineries, such as Chalk Hill, Roth, Lancaster, and Foley Sonoma, are a must. (hotellesmars.com) Situated in the heart of Healdsburg, lounges, restaurants, and shops are steps outside your hotel door making it easy to browse the town square, sample local charcuterie at Journeyman, taste focaccia at Downtown Bakery, and sip complex roasts at Flying Goat Coffee. For
art lovers, there are dozens of galleries and eclectic places like Studio Barndiva. The patio at Bear Republic is a good spot for burgers and Racer 5 IPA’s. Destination restaurants have proliferated in Healdsburg, most notably 3-Michelin Star Single Thread, and nationally acclaimed Valette. Chef Kyle Connaughton, and his farmer/wife Katina, became an overnight sensation when they opened Single Thread in 2016. Inside the chic Zenlike atmosphere, a Japanese-influ-
enced 11-course tasting menu is meticulously prepared by a team of chefs from a visible gallery. Named one of the best restaurants in the world, this is a bucket-list gastronomic experience. (singlethreadfarms.com) Chef Dustin Valette and his brother Aaron Garzini continue to rock the food world with elegant, locally sourced dishes from their hip restaurant Valette inside a historic brick building. The intimate
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC WOLFINGER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS HARDY
airy interior features a spectacular redwood bar, custom-made charcuterie locker, and open-air kitchen where chefs lavish on dishes like scallops en Croûte and Sonoma duck. For a nightcap, slide onto a stool at Spoonbar, the h2’s snazzy watering hole for an old-fashioned made with chai-infused bourbon. (valettehealdsburg.com) —PK
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eat + drink/safari
WHERE THE WILD THINGS ROAM WHEN YOUR PALETTE IS SATURATED FROM TASTING RICH CABS AND OAKY CHARDS, TAKE A SIDE TRIP TO THE “SONOMA SERENGETI” HOME TO HUNDREDS OF EXOTIC ANIMALS AND BIRDS.
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t’s probably the closest to an African safari you’ll ever find without a plane ticket. From ring-tailed lemurs to dazzling zebra, nearly 1000 animals representing over 90 unique species, roam the 400-acre nature preserve nestled in the rugged hills between Napa and Sonoma. Founded in 1989 as a private ranch for breeding and species propagation by Nancy and Peter Lang, Safari West hosts close to 60,000 visitors each year. It’s a popular destination for people of all ages so reserve a tour in advance or run the risk of disappointment. Hotel-like accommodations greet overnight guests who stay in tent cabins on high wooden platforms with spacious decks. Pale green canvas walls enclose plush beds, polished hardwood floors, ensuite bathrooms with hot showers, and rustic but elegant trappings.
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It’s glamping at its best, but if you’re a light sleeper consider bringing ear plugs, wildlife sounds echo loudly in the night. Wake up to a day of adventure on a jeep safari searching for herds of wildebeest, romping rhinos, and towering giraffes. A walking tour follows to observe cheetahs, lemurs, colobus monkeys, and fabulous birds such as the Caribbean flamingos and scarlet ibis. Roam the grounds in early evening or relax on your deck with a glass of chardonnay overlooking the valley of giraffes, before a delicious ranch-style BBQ dinner at Savannah Café. As temperatures cool off, fall is a good season to go and listen to the call of the wild from the comfort of your plush bed — not too far away from the next tasting room. 3115 Porter Creek Rd., Santa Rosa, safariwest.com. –PK
WHAT'S IN SEASON apples There's something about an apple in autumn, with its warmer days and crisp nights, that tastes just right. Fall is the height of apple season. At local markets, you’ll find everything from Honeycrisp and Fuji to Braeburn and Granny Smith. There are literally thousands of varieties of apples to bake into pie, toss into salad, or make into cider. Local chefs share some of their favorite things to do with them. ➤
Fantastic Six
WHICH ONE IS BEST FOR PIES? FOR APPLESAUCE? FOR SNACKING?
Golden Delicious This beloved, sweet apple is excellent for everything from pies to applesauce. It also keeps well and has long been one of the most popular apple varieties in the U.S.
Granny Smith This sour bright green apple was first cultivated in Australia in 1868. It’s great served cut in slices on a cheese plate or slathered with peanut butter.
Gala Gold It’s best eaten raw, but also the perfect choice for fruit salads or applesauce, brimming with flavor.
Pink Lady A tangy fruit, this one is an ideal snack, but you’ll have to wait until late October or November for this variety to appear at local markets.
Fuji A versatile, popular fruit, originally bred in Japan, this one is ideal for eating out of hand.
Gravenstein First planted here in 1811, this super-versatile apple works well for baking, cooking, or just plain munching.
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what's in season DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Center rack in oven. Line 9-inch metal pie pan with 14 x 14 piece of wax paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray. To make filling: Peel, quarter, and core apples. Cut into 3/4 in slices. Place in large bowl, add sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Toss to coat and set aside. To make praline: Melt butter and brown sugar in small saucepan. Cook and stir until melted, about 3 minutes. Add walnuts and remove from heat. Set aside to cool.
Aviva's Applesauce By Chef Karen Leibowitz for CUESA FARMERS’ MARKET
This applesauce tastes great alone or with latkes. INGREDIENTS (Yield: 1½ quarts) 3 pounds apples, Golden Delicious, McIntosh, Gala Gold 1½ cups water 2 cinnamon sticks ¼ t. salt 1 T. marmalade DIRECTIONS Peel and core apples; cut into 1-inch cubes. Transfer to a large pot. Add water, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring frequently, until apples are very soft. Remove cinnamon and vanilla. Transfer to a blender and puree, if you like a smoother texture. Add marmalade (optional) and Yemen spice mix, stir to combine. Serve immediately or chill in fridge for a few days to enhance flavor.
Upside Down Apple Walnut Pie
BY CHEF DEBBIE SHAHVAR, BUTTERCUP “We serve America’s quintessential pie upside down with a layer of brown sugar and walnut praline. The recipe is simplified using store bought pie crusts, but you can make your own, like we do.” INGREDIENTS Apple Filling 5 large Granny Smith apples ¾ C. sugar 3 T. flour 2 t. cinnamon
To assemble: Spread cooled praline over bottom of wax paper in pie tin. Top with a pie crust. Pour apple filling into crust, mounding in center. Press down firmly. Place top crust over apples. Trim edges leaving a 3/4-inch border. Fold top and bottom crusts together and flute. Cut a 1-inch circle in center of pie. Bake for 15 minutes at 400 degrees, then lower to 325 degrees for 1 more hour. Remove and cool. Refrigerate overnight. To serve: Heat a large skillet for 2 minutes. Place pie in skillet and heat for a few minutes. Invert pie on a plate and peel off wax paper. Serve with vanilla ice cream.
Praline 4 T. butter ¾ C. light brown sugar ¾ C. chopped walnuts 2 Pilsbury pie crusts
SEBASTOPOL APPLES Sonoma County was once considered one of the best places in California for apples, before many farmers plowed their crops to grow grapes. Home to the Gravenstein, take a trip north to Sebastopol and pick up a crate. Hale's Apple Farm grows and sells over three dozen varieties from a stand right off the highway. Across the street, Andy's Market sells a big selection of local fruit and vegetables. Walker Apples has close to 30 varieties that you're welcome to try.
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Voted Best Burger In Walnut Creek 9 years in a row
Burger Differently
- Walnut Creek Magazine
the counter walnut creek ď‚Ť 1699 n. california blvd ď‚Ť thecounter.com fall 2019 / walnut creek
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eat + drink
DAVE PHINNEY
WINEMAKER, DISTILLER, VISIONARY
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BY FRAN MILLER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARGARET PATTILLO apa Valley vintner Dave Phinney is no ordinary winemaker, or distiller. Prolific in his creation of popular wine brands and labels, the founder of The Prisoner and Orin Swift wines has set his sights on the spirits world, and he’s selected Vallejo’s Mare Island as his muse. “I was fortunate to stumble on this amazing piece of our nation’s history and fell in love immediately,” said Phinney. “We were able to transform these historical buildings into a state of the art distillery that perfectly fits our needs and allows us to control every step of the process including growing the grain, milling and distilling on site, proofing with our own spring water and finishing in our wine barrels.” ➤
walnut creek / fall 2019
Working within three historic and remodeled buildings on the former Naval base – the oldest west of the Mississippi – Phinney produces whiskey, rye, and bourbon, crafted in the style he most appreciates: complex, intense, and balanced with oak influence. (His tequila is imported from Mexico.) Spirits are aged in wine barrels: Cabernet for bourbon and whiskey, and Grenache for rye, and Chardonnay for tequila. His venture is called Savage & Cooke – the moniker selected by Phinney in honor of the two surnames he encountered while perusing Mare Island’s archives and chronicles. “I typically don’t choose to appropriate when creating a brand,” said the hyper entrepreneurial Phinney. “But in this case, those two names of 19th century factory workers stood out to me as perfect representations of the brand’s vibe and the distillery’s landmark environment.” Phinney’s yuppie style belies his edgy creativity. His manor is soft and self-effacing, deflecting acclaim and plaudits, instead directing praise to the team of 45 creatives that he’s assembled worldwide. He knows that his success is derived from a group effort, yet most would attest it’s Phinney’s vision that propels every project they undertake. He attributes much of his innovative nature to his parents. “My mom and dad made me and my brother trek through museums in the morning before catering to our more youthful interests in the afternoons,” said Phinney, whose art appreciation is reflected in the Goya etching on The Prisoner wine label. “At the time, we didn’t like it very much, but now I associate that early exposure to art with my active imagination and desire to create.” Phinney sold his wine brands in recent years yet continues to produce wines from vineyards he owns in France, Italy, Greece, and Spain. He travels frequently to each, especially rhapsodic about Maury, a small village in the south of France where he owns 300 acres of old vine Grenache bottled under the label Department 66. Now, his efforts are focused on Savage & Cooke, the distillery and tasting room on Mare Island. His ‘Second Glance’ whiskey, ‘Lip Service’ rye, ‘Burning Chair’ bourbon, and ‘Ayate’ tequilas are available to taste and purchase, and the vast, artisan distillery is open for tours. Phinney would one day like to own Mare Island outright and turn it into a desirable destination; a grittier and edgier Yountville, accessible by bridge and ferry, with restaurants, a winery and tasting rooms, a coffee roastery, retail, and artisan studios that reflect the area’s historic and cutting-edge duality. The bones are there; it’s vision that’s required – and vision is a Phinney specialty.
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DINING GUIDE WHERE TO EAT NOW
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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
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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 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
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.
HERITAGE EATS: Locally-sourced fresh ingredients transformed
into flavorful wraps, bowls, salads, and tacos. The Med Falafel Wrap stuffed with quinoa tabbouleh, slaw, cucumber, and tzatziki is a must. 24 Broadway Lane, BP, 475-5222, heritageeats.com.
HEAVENLY BISTRO: Fans flock here for tasty meals served three
times a day, but it’s the breakfasts that make this café a standout. Eggs Benedict, farm fresh omelets, waffles, crepes, corned beef hash, they do it all in heaping portions. 3116 Oak Rd., 448-8099, heavenlybistro.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.
MOOYAH: It’s a franchise with a load of personality. Take your kids EXTENSIVE WINE LIST W I N E S P E CTATO R 2 01 9 AWA R D O F E X C E LL E N C E L E G E N D A RY I T A L I A N C U I S I N E S I N C E 19 8 7 CHEF-OWNER ERMES PAULIN Serving Dinners Tuesday – Sunday • Happy Hour Daily 5:00 to 6:30pm 1528 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek • 925-943-6608 MONTECATINIRESTAURANT.COM
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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.
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 CHEESESTEAK SHOP: Walnut Creek’s oldest fast-food joint has been grilling up Philly cheesesteaks since the 1980’s. Thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, peppers, & onions come stuffed in a crispy-doughy roll. Dive in with their seasoned curly fries. 1626 Cypress St., 934-7017, cheesesteakshop.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.
ASIAN
YOUR
t u C n r l a W••••••••••••••••e••e••k ACGfNcOP North Locust Street, Between Giamona and Lacassie
OPEN YEAR ROUND Market Hours: 9am-1pm
ACGfNcOP
CHINESE / VIETNAMESE / JAPANESE / THAI / FUSION BURMA 2: It’s a melting pot of Asian and Indian flavors. Tea leaf salad is a standout—shredded romaine tossed with yellow beans, peanuts, seeds, fried garlic, jalapenos, and pungent tea leaves— tossed tableside. 1616 N. Main St., 261-8580, burma2.com.
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., 9260278, dragonpond.com. KEVIN’S NOODLE HOUSE: Classic Vietnamese pho noodle 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.
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.
Winter
Squash •••••• M��e Markets ••••••
Orinda on Saturdays
22 Orinda Way (in front of Community Park)
April-November • 9am-1pm
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••• /WalnutCreekFarmersMarket @walnutcreekfarmersmarket www.cccfm.org
fall 2019 / walnut creek
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ASIAN
CHINESE / VIETNAMESE / JAPANESE / THAI / FUSION OKE POKE: Trick out a rice, lettuce or noodle bowl with salmon or tuna then sweet onions, mango, spicy crab, ginger, cilantro, and roasted seeds. Spice it up with a hand-crafted sauce. Miso soup, poke burritos, and Hawaiian ice round out the menu. 1529 Locust St., 891-4616, okepoke.com PF CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO: This large Chinese restaurant man-
ages 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.
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. POKEATERY: Japanese-influenced Hawaiian fast-casual food
is proliferating in Walnut Creek, but we like Pokeatery for its sustainably-sourced seafood—ahi, yellowtail, salmon—served on rice, noodles, or greens topped with unlimited mix-ins. Do a Dole whip for dessert. 1345 Newell Ave., 287-1888, pokeatery.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
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 A’TRIO: Lively restaurant-lounge inside the Walnut Creek
Marriott turns out delicious California cuisine with a Mediterranean flare. 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, features Pacific Rim dishes and California classics. Sunday brunch is a weekend ritual. 2805 N. Jones Rd., 938-8700, renaissanceclubsport.com.
MAIN STREET KITCHEN: Farm-fresh ingredients grace the menu here. Standouts include fish and chips with house cabbage slaw, and fried green pickles come with a lemon aioli. 1358 N. Main St., 933-1001, mainstkitchen.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. 60
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VA DE VI BISTRO: With its sophisticated vibe and al fresco dining,
the restaurant's sips are accompanied by small plates--bite size burgers, pasta, and seafood. 1511 Mt. Diablo Blvd., 979-0100, vadevi.com.
ITALIAN / PIZZA GENOVA: Italian meats, fresh ravioli and sauces. Take a number; fans line-up for the fresh sandwiches at lunch. 1105 S. California Blvd., 939-3838 and 2064 Treat Blvd., 938-2888. genovadeli.net.
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. MASSIMO: Upscale atmosphere with a piano bar and food from Northern Italy. Just across the street from the Lesher Center for the Arts, Massimo's offers good small plates and pasta. 1604 Locust St., 932-1474, massimoristorante.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.
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. 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.
WHERE down the ROAD MEETS around the GLOBE
$5 Off
Locally-sourced ingredients transformed into innovative wraps, bowls, salads, tacos and more! California Fresh • Global Flavors
Purchase of $10 or More Valid until 11/30/2019 Cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts, limit one offer per person, per visit
925-475-5222 • heritageeats.com • Open Daily 24 Broadway Lane, Walnut Creek Near Nordstrom inside Broadway Plaza
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.
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. Legend has it the Prego pizza brings on labor. 1535 Giammona Dr., 280-1100, skipolinispizza.com. 54 MINT FORNO: Burrata cheese is showcased here in a delicious appetizer with roasted peppers. They also make a mind-blowing lasagna. 1686 Locust Street, 476-5844, 54mintforno.com.
MEXICAN EL CHARRO: A Lafayette favorite, the margaritas are magic accompanied by 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. LA MORDIDA: This tiny taqueria packs in locals for their tacos
filled with carnitas folded into fresh tortillas and topped with cilantro, diced onions, and salsa verde. An outside patio is a perfect place to indulge on a sunny day. 607 Gregory Ln., Pleasant Hill, 944-9188, la-mordida.com.
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local FARMERS’ MARKETS ALAMO Alamo Plaza Every Sunday, 9am-2pm alamoplazashoppingcenter.com BENICIA First Street, Between B&D Thursday, 4pm-8pm beniciamainstreet.org CLAYTON Diablo Street, Main & Center Saturday 9am-1pm pcfma.org MORAGA Moraga Shopping Center Every Sunday 9am-1pm cafarmersmkts.com DANVILLE Railroad & Prospect Saturday 9am-1pm pcfma.org ORINDA Orinda Village Saturday 9am-1pm cccfm.org WALNUT CREEK North Locust Street Sunday 9am-1pm cccfm.org DIABLO VALLEY Shadelands Business Park Saturday 9am-1pm cafarmersmkts.com CONCORD Todos Santos Plaza Willow Pass & Grant Tuesday 10am-2pm Thursday 4pm-8pm pcfma.org
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MARIA MARIA: This beautiful Mexican restaurant is known for its creative dishes like creamy duck tacos and mole short ribs. 1470 N. Broadway, 946-1010, mariamariarestaurants.com. TACOS WALNUT CREEK: Lines are already forming at this new self-
serve authentic taqueria for El Pastor tacos smothered in grilled onions, pineapple and cilantro, bean burritos, and chicken enchiladas. 1690 Locust St., 464-7489, tacoswalnutcreek.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.
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 favor-
ites 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 CALIFORNIA FISH GRILL: It’s a franchise and a good one. The menu features a dozen or so species of fresh fish and shellfish, including scallops, all sustainably sourced. Order at the counter, grab a booth & enjoy the atmosphere. 2910 Ygnacio Valley Rd., 444-0360, cafishgrill.com. PACIFIC CATCH: Located on the ground floor of the Agora, this
Hawaiian inspired fish house packs a punch with a big menu featuring plenty of fresh fish—in shrimp tacos, poke bowls, seafood towers, lobster rolls. 1305 S. Main St., 378-7565, pacificcatch.com.
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: The restaurant’s specialties — killer cocktails and phenomenal fish —attract barflies and foodies alike. 1555 Bonanza St., 944-3474, walnutcreekyachtclub.com.
SOUTH AMERICAN PERUVIAN / SPANISH / BRAZILIAN
PARADA: While the menu offers a diverse selection, the ceviche is a must. 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 eatery. You can't go
wrong the robust empanadas stuffed with meat or vegetarian fillings inside flaky pastry dough. 3003 Oak Rd., 954-8300, saboresdelsursf.com.
TELEFERIC BARCELONA: Walnut Creek's Spanish hot spot serves tasty bites along with fresh paella and steak in a stunning atmosphere. 1500 Mt. Diablo Blvd., 451-9576, telefericbarcelona.com.
MISTERWIVES
EVENT SCENE
SONOMA HARVEST MUSIC FESTIVAL PHOTOGRAPHY BY YVETTE ESPINOZA The vineyards at B.R. Cohn Winery served as the backdrop for two fall weekends of worldclass music and wine in the heart of the Sonoma Valley. LAURYN HILL
DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE
COLD WAR KIDS
fall 2019 / walnut creek
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EVENT SCENE
WALNUT FESTIVAL PARADE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA FREELS Celebrating its 83rd season, this Contra Costa County tradition kicks off the Walnut Festival with marching bands, antique cars, and King Walnut parading down Main Street.
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CHEAP EATS
WALNUT CREEK MAGAZINE
