27 A R C A D I A F O O D whipped cream himself, the sandwiches ($4– $7.50) are deliciously creative and the lattes are crazy Starbucks-will-never-get-this-good smooth. Like many independent operations in the far neck of the woods, Cafe Aquatica is cash only, but houses an ATM machine inside. Right up the street, River’s End Restaurant & Inn (11048 Hwy. 1, Jenner. 707.865.2484. N 38° 27.060´; W 123° 7.500´) takes a more romantic approach to West County dining. But after taking in the sweeping views, it’s difficult to avoid getting sort of swoony when considering ordering the Champagne and oysters combo for an appetizer. This gem of a foodie spot is definitely on the high-roller end of the scale, with dinner entrées like North American elk paired with a red wine poached pear ($49)— that’s right, elk—and an apple-smoked filet mignon ($36). Tourist romanticism be damned, River’s End is a prime example of culinary elegance and is worth saving up some money in the mattress for. The next time the need for fresh coastal air and a break from the fast lane hits, slow down on the drive out west. As far as food destinations and quirky nightclubs go, the Russian River holds its own.—C.L.
Two Bird Cafe Set along a side road adjacent to Sir Francis Drake Boulevard between the golf course and the community center, the Two Bird is one of those unexpected pleasures that all are eager to grab as their own. Even though the restaurant has been at the Valley Inn for seeming decades, everyone takes it personally as a unique find. For me, the Two Bird is all about rain and dinner. For most others, the Two Bird is all about brunch and dogs. For me, it’s the jazz combo playing on a five-foot-long bar stage on weekend nights. For others, it’s lamb chops and eggs. For me, it’s the careful jumble of the dining room, like eating at a professor’s house. For them, it’s the particular crust that the fried potatoes achieve at 11am. For me, it’s the easy friendly service. For them, the good laugh that bicyclist’s attire provides. For me, the fireplace warming the room. For them, the patio, open to the creek. For me, steaming soup. For them, the bay laurel smell of the air. For me, the wine. For them, the mimosa. For us, for good. 625 San Geronimo Valley Drive, San Geronimo. 415.488.0105. N 38° 0.850´ W 122° 40.083´ Boho Cache Hint: Fill ’er up!—G.G.
Humble Pie “It smells great in here. You said they specialize in pies?” “They do. Check out the board.” “Blueberry lemon, banana cream with coconut, apple ginger, pumpkin. I want to try them all!” “We have to get the figs and goat cheese.” “Yes! Hey, you said that they have tater tot pie?” “Yeah, they had it a bit ago, but they make all their food from ingredients that are in season, and that they get from local farmers, so the menu changes all the time, which is probably why it’s not here.” “We’ll have to come back. Oh, look! Mushroom Kingdom! I might have to get that. Shiitake, portabella, garlic, spinach . . .” “May I take your order?” “Mushroom Kingdom for me.” “I’ll have the chicken Kiev. And we will definitely save room for pie.” “I love this place. I especially love this bouquet of violets and that the plates don’t all match.” “I told you. I love it here, too.” “Did you catch a glimpse of the guy who dresses like Edward from Twilight on campus today? His hair seemed extra luxurious this morning.” “So good. We need to figure out a way to take a picture.” “Wahoo—our food!” “Awesome.” “Mine, too.” “I could eat here every day.” “Pie?” “Of course. I have to get the pumpkin.” “OK, I’ll get the apple ginger.” “This is the best freakin’ pie I’ve ever eaten.” 10056 Main St., Penngrove. Open for dinner late (Wednesday–Thursday) and very late (Friday–Saturday); Sunday, brunch. 707.664.8779. N 38° 17.828´ W 122° 39.985´ Boho Cache Hint: T.R.S.V.O.T.O.O.E. —J.J.
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THE BOHEMIAN