When you need that kind of food, The Cookhouse’s short-order cook is a master. So are the longtime servers and owner who manage an endless crowd. It’s open for breakfast and lunch; I give extra points for leaving Belgian in Belgium and making thin waffles instead. Call it a proper delivery system for butter and syrup!
Shadowbrook is known for being a romantic restaurant, but I have a thing for the bar. Take advantage of the free taxi if staying within 3 miles, and then enjoy a magical walk through the gardens. If you need assistance (or are wearing show-off shoes), take the funicular—a cable car—down the hillside where the river greets the restaurant.
When not shopping, I’m dancing (hateful, I know). Since lessons are two hours from home, I require quick, healthy fuel. That’s where Adelitas comes in. Casual ease meets fresh, well-rounded food just minutes from the flat side of Highway 17—where traffic grinds to its customary halt. Consider it the next time you’re headed to Santa Cruz.
It’s a good sign when a hotdog restaurant offers drinkable wines by the glass. Tucked away in East Sacramento (of “Lady Bird” fame), it’s hard to beat their menu. To be perfectly frank, these dogs have style.
This food belongs in your mouth, not on a lens, so pardon the hasty pics. Boasting an award-winning chef and an advanced sommelier, the husband/wife owners have created something truly spectacular. If only I had a Michelin Star to award…
Located in the heart of California’s agricultural region, Preserve is both my favorite neighborhood restaurant as well as a NorCal destination. Artful food and surroundings tickle the palate as much as Penelope, the resident cat, will tease your affections. Be sure to put the charming town of Winters on your list.
**Special note: Not all is happy with my ensemble because my source for the silk blouse, a beloved boutique, is out of business. We can't afford to lose more locally owned, independent shops. Remember, they support you with unique goods, quality service, jobs, taxes, charitable contributions, local culture ...
One of my dearest friends is a curmudgeon, which gives her special standing when it comes to recommendations. She loves Yolo Traders Bistro, and I love it, too. Seafood prepared with a delicate Mexican/Asian fusion.
