Around Town Food & Drink cilantro, onion, and topped with fresh sour cream is rich and satisfying. The chicken soup, topped with onions, cilantro, tomatoes, jalapeño and fresh avocado, is most popular. Lighter fare like tostadas, salads and Caesar wraps offer fresh and healthy alternatives, as well. The restaurant offers only certified Angus beef in its beef dishes, only chicken breast in its chicken selections, and only Alaskan cod in its fish dishes. The three bean options are, whole pintos, whole black beans and refried beans, and all are vegan. All produce is locally sourced, and the guacamole is made fresh daily. The flavorful fajita marinade is made on the premises. Even though Sandoval’s may be old-school, they can accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences without sacrificing flavor. A year ago Benicia’s restaurants struggled to remain in business, creating outdoor dining, takeout specials, and delivery service to survive. Sandoval’s was no exception. But early in the pandemic, Sandoval’s also began their take on “Happy Meals,” giving away the ingredients for a meal to twenty-plus staff families every Thursday. These meals were meant to provide food to feed her employees and their families once a week during these tough times. Sandoval’s gave away Holiday Happy Meals, as well, that also contained holiday treats, providing some much needed seasonal cheer. Thanks in part to a partnership with Valero, Sandoval’s was able to answer the call to provide meals to community volunteers and frontline workers during this difficult time. Sandoval’s also has a long standing reputation of community engagement with organizations like Soroptimist International of Benicia, Arts Benicia, and St. Paul’s Episcopal. Currently, the front window at Sandoval’s is like a low tech bulletin board for passersby. Information regarding COVID tests, vaccines, and other community opportunities are listed there. The group of citizens that benefit from this pop-up bulletin board may not have access to computers, but they certainly need this information. Deanne encourages this type of community interaction, recognizing that each and every one of us deserves to be informed about the current health crisis. She also recognizes and gives thanks to the employees, providers, and customers who have allowed Sandoval’s to stay open through the years and especially through this difficult time. Deanne is an inspiration to us all. Our community is well served when business owners and others see beyond their personal interests and look out for all community members. A round of applause to you, Deanne!!
Spring in a glass
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Maura Sullivan
I found a gin for the light hearted drinker. When I say light hearted drinker, I mean the drinker who enjoys most spirits in a decorated tall glass. This drinker normally enjoys flavored vodka and predictably orders daiquiris or the classic mojito. You’re probably thinking, that’s not a light hearted drinker, that's just a beginner. I know.… but some habits never die. This gin is suitable for gin connoisseurs and would-be gin-haters, alike. Empress 1908 Gin. The Empress is nothing but class in a glass. Not only will the natural indigo color hypnotize you, it will enlighten. When this beautiful gem is mixed with citrus, the color will change to a beautiful glowing blush color. Distilled from pea blossoms with added botanicals, this spirit gives off subtle aromas of lavender and orange peel. Everything about this gin reminds me of spring. It cannot be compared to the typical gin, which might conjure unwanted reminders of Pine Sol or pine tree car air fresheners. I promise, this will create nothing but good, refreshing memories. Now let's get some spring into your glass. Empress Gin 1908 does have an amazing website full of great recipes, but I was inspired to try a recipe called The Bee Knees
The Bee’s Knees You’ll need a shaker for this one. 2oz of Empress Gin 1908 (Safeway, Bevmo or Target) Half to ¾ of an ounce of honey Syrup 1oz of Fresh lemon juice. Yes, it has to be fresh! Shake over ice, and pour into your favorite dainty glass. Enjoy your gem cocktail outside.
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