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You don’t need to leave town to leave the world behind.
Winners of this year’s survey just might motivate you to indulge.
SECOND HOME: SAN DIEGO
A writer who splits his time shares his recs for the SoCal city.
By Sasha AbramskyHere’s some bold inspiration for your home interior.
By Catherine Warmerdam) $ 500,000 worth of jewelryfrom Sharif Fine Jewelers,voted BestJeweler bysurvey respondents
Table of Contents / Staff Box / Editor’s Note / Contributors
IT’S OPEN ENROLLMENT. CHOOSE THE CARE THAT CHANGES YOUR STORY.
When an accident left Evan with a broken back and an X ray that showed he may never walk again, his UC Davis Health orthopedic surgeon and physical therapists refused to give up on him. Driven by an unfailing care plan and nonstop determination, today Evan is back on his feet and back in the gym. Find a UC Davis Health doctor you connect with today.
ChooseHealth.ucdavis.edu
Midtown owned and operated, Little Relics provides artisan and fine contemporary jewelry as well as custom and full-service repair. At the helm and leading the circus, Susan Rabinovitz, trained with Masters from around the world (over 1,000 hours with mentors) earned certified recognition as a Graduate Jeweler, Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts. Susan, also, had the esteemed privilege to be the only female competitor in Stuller’s International Battle of Benches, 2019. In an effort to continuously provide quality service, Susan is currently accepted and attending GIA, Graduate Gemologist Program (eta completion fall 2022).
Mon.—Tues. 11-5:30
Fri. 11-5:30
Wed. 11-3 Thurs. 11-5:30
Sat & sun by appt
In this issue and online / October 2022
A unique showcase featuring the faces behind some of the city’s most notable businesses. Begins on page 72.
SACMAG.COM/SPECIAL-SECTIONS
Meet the top producers in real estate for Sacramento and Placer counties. This elite group consists of participating members of the Masters Club who achieved club criteria during the year 2021.
SACMAG.COM/SPECIAL-SECTIONS
Susan Rabinovitz
Dennis Rainey
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Krista Minard
ART DIRECTOR
Gabriel Teague
Darlena Belushin McKay
DINING EDITOR
Marybeth Bizjak
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sasha Abramsky, Luna Anona, Mark Billingsley, Diana Bizjak, Cathy Cassinos-Carr, Ed Goldman, Dorsey Griffith, Jennifer Junghans, Angela Knight, Elena M. Macaluso, Reed Parsell, Kari L. Rose Parsell, Bill Romanelli, Thea Marie Rood, Nora Heston Tarte, Mari Tzikas Suarez, Catherine Warmerdam, Sara E. Wilson
Debbie Hurst
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kat Alves, Gary and Lisa Ashley, Mike Battey, Beth Baugher, Francisco Chavira, Debbie Cunningham, Wes Davis, Terence Duff y, Tim Engle, Kevin Fiscus, Aniko Kiezel, Ryan Angel Meza, Tyler Mussetter, Stephanie Russo, Rachel Valley, Susan Yee
Lisa Bonk
Kelly, Victor Obenauf,
John
Shults
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WRITERS, PHOTOGRAPHERS AND ILLUSTRATORS If you are interested in contribut ing to Sacramento Magazine, please send informa tion to (writers) Krista Minard, krista@sacmag.com or (photographers and illustrators) Gabriel Teague, gabriel@sacmag.com. Include a cover letter, résumé and links to previously published work.
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It’s the annual Best of Sac issue, with winners of our online survey presented against a backdrop of images that give us permission to indulge—in food, fun, pampering, whatever we desire after the past two years of shutdowns and masks and fear and strain on our wallets and sanity. It’s time to relax and celebrate.
We got started with relaxing and celebrating in midAugust, when we kicked off Best of Sac season with our Best of Sac party, held at Drake’s: The Barn. More than 2,500 people pressed into the outdoor venue on a hot-hot afternoon, lining up for samples of wine, beer and spirits, gobbling snacks and food truck fare, and dancing to live music till well after dark. At the end of the night, as I picked my way across the grass and dodged still-going party-goers, the Delta breeze blew through—everyone had forgotten the 106-degree start to the evening.
It’s always with mixed emotions that we work on this celebratory issue while once again, around us, the world feels a bit dark. As I write, it’s early September. California is burning. The Mosquito Fire has sent thousands of people fleeing and trillions of particles swirling into our 110-degree air. We’re worried about the power grid. So, along with gallons of ice cream, please let’s have cool winds and rain, and a moon and sun obscured by clouds that are real, not smoke.
Still, the best shines through. On our community Facebook page in Folsom, too often a hotbed of political snark and vicious criticism of neighbors’ parenting, driving, lawn watering and dog leashing, someone posts: “I have a Ford 150 truck and am available to help anyone who needs to evacuate” from the Mosquito Fire. In the 115-degree heat at the Amtrak station in Roseville, an older woman helps a tearfully grateful younger woman drag her luggage to the platform. Ice chests with waters get left on porches for delivery drivers. Cooling centers open for people who don’t have access to air-conditioning, and volunteers smile. At PetSmart, when a customer with hundreds of dollars of cash collected from neighbors prepares to pay for pounds and pounds of pet food destined for the fire evacuation center up the hill, the store manager stops the transaction in progress and says: “It’s on the house.” Another customer heaps bags of dog treats on the counter and says, “Please let me pay for these for you to take.” And on the hottest days on record, SMUD asks people to reduce their energy usage so everyone can maintain power—and people do.
The best is all around us.
KRISTA MINARD krista@sacmag.com
It’s that time of year again: planning season! What would you like to see in Sacramento Magazine in 2023? Drop me a line at krista@sacmag.com and let me know.
Sacramento Magazine’s free newsletter, The Daily Brief, goes to email subscribers every weekday. Catch the latest updates in dining, arts and entertainment, wine, recreation, health (including COVID case counts) and more. You’ll also find links to other community news and resources and social media posts that have caught our eye. Subscribe at sacmag.com/newsletters.
Sena Christian is an independent journalist who often writes about agriculture, climate change, land management and economic development in the American West. For this issue of Sacramento Magazine, she wrote about how to buy art. “Gallery representatives are really eager to help novice collectors, and owning art is much more accessible than I had ever realized,” says Sena, who also is project editor of Solving Sacramento, a journalism collaborative, and co-adviser of the Express, Sacramento City College’s student news site.
“I was excited to collaborate on this year’s Best of Sacramento issue,” says photographer Tim Engle, who worked with art director Gabriel Teague to create a backdrop themed “Indulge” against which to run the list of this year’s survey winners. “Everybody involved was so gracious and willing to be photographed; it made my job extremely easy. We are so lucky to have so many great things to feature in Sacramento.”
“It’s especially enjoy able to write about design projects that are quite different from one another,” says Catherine Warmerdam.
“In this case, a traditionallooking home meant to look like it has been there for a century and a thoroughly modern residence that is all about experimenta tion and pushing boundaries. Both spaces appeal to me in that they are beautiful in their own way, and they each provide a sense of daily comfort to the individuals who inhabit them.”
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Visit Sacramento says that the largest crop coming out of Sacramento County last year wasn’t rice or tomatoes, but wine grapes. In September, the tourism bureau’s Farm-toFork Festival kicked off with the Legends of Wine celebration, traditionally held outdoors on the Capitol lawn but this year moved to the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center be cause of hot weather. More than 25 wineries poured at the event, which included food tast ings from local restaurants and celebrated wine legends Darrell Corti and David Berkley.
inside: Feast for a Village / Minding the Mind / Thrift Treasures / Sustainable Shopping
For those of you who engage in long-range planning, here’s a list of the speakers coming to our city for the Society of Orators’ Big Names Are Coming series.
Oct. 12, 2022
DR. NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON
Local cookbook author Georgeanne Brennan was living in France when she attended her first grand aioli, an outdoor feast at which villagers gather at long tables to break bread and drink wine together. The menu traditionally features poached seafood, seasonal vegetables and large quantities of aioli—a garlicky mayonnaise—for spreading on everything. Back in the early 2000s, Brennan teamed up with former Davis mayor Ann Evans to put on an American grand aioli, dubbed the Village Feast, in Davis’s Central Park. It was, for years, a popular event on the local social calendar, until the pandemic brought it to a temporary halt.
But the Village Feast is back this year on Sunday, Oct. 16, with the return of some old traditions and the introduction of a few new twists. The menu remains the same: grilled lamb and vegetables, served family style with heaping bowls of aioli. And as in the past, diners will eat at communal tables. But this year’s feast takes place in two locations—Great Bear Vineyards in Davis and Mulvaney’s B&L in midtown Sacramento—to make it more accessible to people from all over the greater Sacramento region.
As in previous years, participants are instructed to bring their own table settings: plates, eating utensils and napkins. That’s how they do it in France, explains Brennan, who used to live in a medieval village in Haute Provence and has written numerous books on French cooking. She suggests bringing your “good stuff”—china, table linens and silver—to show a Frenchlike respect for the food.
Nov. 16, 2022
DR. MATTHEW WALKER
The feast is a fundraiser for Davis Farm to School and Les Dames d’Escoffier. Tickets for the lunchtime event (noon–3 p.m.) are $165. There will be a digital silent auction of items donated by local chefs, restaurateurs and others. Anyone, not just ticketholders, can bid. For tickets or more information, go to thevillagefeast2022.eventbrite.com.—
MARYBETH BIZJAK
Jan. 18, 2023
ANNE-MARIE SLAUGHTER
March 1, 2023
DR. SIDDHARTHA MUKHERJEE
March 29, 2023
ELIZABETH GILBERT
April 26, 2023
MICHAEL BESCHLOSS
All presentations take place at SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center, 1301 L St. Subscriptions are sold by series only. Tickets to individual events are not available. For subscriptions and more information, see sacramentospeakers.com.
A local doc’s book about meditation promises straight language and real-life tips.
BY ELENA M. MACALUSOMeditation has become much more mainstream in recent years, but Greg Sazima, M.D., found many books on the subject to be full of new age psychology and jargon.
“Meditation doesn’t require prayer bowls and sitting in caves for 10 years,” says Sazima, a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist based in Roseville who’s been practicing med itation himself for 20 years. “I wanted to write a book that was much more secular and practical and accessible.”
So he did. “Practical Mindfulness: A Physician’s No-Nonsense Guide to Meditation for Beginners” (Mango Press, 2021) is written in narrative form and offers practice exercises with steps as well as troubleshooting tips. There’s even a bit of snark thrown in. “Books on meditation and consciousness don’t have to be deadly serious or dry,” Sazima says. “The point was to make it an entertaining book.”
The book’s appendix targets other doctors, teaching them how to use meditation to treat their own patients. “It’s a teach ing-the-teacher thing,” says Sazima, who developed meditation programs for kids in the Eureka Union School District as well
as for people dealing with chronic illness, something Sazima can relate to personally as he deals with the latest of multiple bouts of bone cancer. “I definitely use my tactics in lots of ways,” he says.
“MEDITATION DOESN’T REQUIRE PRAYER BOWLS AND SITTING IN CAVES FOR 10 YEARS.”
However people find their way to the art of meditation, Sazima just hopes they find it.
“If you have sat in self-awareness before in time of crisis, you feel it (the crisis or event), but you don’t actually overreact to it,” he says. “There’s lots of evidence that when people attend to their expe rience, even if it is painful, they have better outcomes in both tolerance and adaptation of those states and are more likely to be compliant to the treatments that might make them better.”
Wandering mind? Don’t worry.
“The loss of attention and regaining it is actually a really cool thing. It’s a feature, not a bug. You start building a curiosity of what you keep going back to,” Sazima says. “I’ve been doing this for 20 years. Sometimes it’s pea soup upstairs and maybe I gain some insight on that. Maybe.”
Marta Pena-Lane wants you to know that the thrift store she manages is more like a boutique with a hint of museum. The vintage silk-screen prints, kimonos and bright bento boxes displayed around her seem to back her up.
“I’m very selective,” she says of her meticulous curating for My Sister’s House Treasures, a secondhand store specializing in Asian goods on a historically significant stretch of 10th Street in Sacramento’s Southside Park neighborhood.
The shop, which marked its one-year anniversary this September, has cut a unique swath in the local thrift-store market. An enterprise of My Sister’s House, a nonprofit that helps Asians and Asian Americans experiencing domestic violence, The idea for My Sister’s House Treasures came about several years ago, when rummage-sale fundraisers amassed heaps of donations. Board members decided to open a store focused on selling primarily Asian goods. “We wanted to be able to find a niche to make us different than other secondhand stores,” explains Yen Marshall, the nonprofit’s executive director.
But would there be enough donations for good inventory? “It’s been a year and we don’t have to worry about it at all,” says Pena-Lane, gesturing to brimming shelves and racks. Donations come from supporters, sometimes collectors and, at least once, a museum.
About half the items are vintage or antique. Some are as new as T-shirts advertising Sacramento’s Japantown, where the store is located along with Osaka-Ya, a Japanese confectionary, and Binchoyaki, a Japanese restaurant. The businesses provide walkin traffic for each other, Pena-Lane says.
Customers, diverse in age and race, browse the store for items like a Rose Medallion teapot ($70) in characteristic pinks and greens, a Korean wooden altar ($100) that looks like a miniature buffet, a contemporary kimono ($12) or a Hawaiian shirt ($6). The most expensive item is a folding black-and-gold screen, room-divider size, offered at $1,700—price negotiable, Pena-Lane says.
There are plenty of tea sets and dishes at nominal prices. Japanese dolls with delicately painted faces and wall hangings with inlaid jade and stone would be hard to find at Goodwill.
Pena-Lane has educated herself on the value of donated items by searching the internet for comparisons so she knows what she can sell and what isn’t worth taking up space in the narrow store. “No rice cookers,” she says, laughing. She admits she did make an exception once for a new, boxed one. Just once. 2223 10th St.; (916) 431-7941; my-sisters-housetreasures.square.site M. S. ENKOJI
Marta Pena-Lane
“WE WANTED TO BE ABLE TO FIND A NICHE TO MAKE US DIFFERENT THAN OTHER SECONDHAND STORES.”
Don DeVorss knew he didn’t have long to live. Struggling to breathe, he walked alone at Folsom Point State Park in January 2019, looking out at the setting sun reflecting on Folsom Lake.
“I was thinking, ‘I can’t see myself making it much longer.’ I took a picture of the sunset over the dam,” says the longtime El Dorado Hills resident. He was deep in heart failure.
He was 62 years old, had survived a massive heart attack and later lost a lung, but he’d been told by his cardiologist, “If you can walk into a heart transplant, you’ll be able to walk out.”
“That’s why I was walking every night,” he says. “A quarter mile—I couldn’t even. But I love being outdoors—and breathe the fresh air. I told myself, ‘I’m not going to have many more of these sunsets.’”
DeVorss had only recently qualified to be on the list for a heart transplant at Stanford. Too soon for a donor heart, he and his wife, Julie, figured. But when he got home from his walk, his phone rang. It was Stanford.
“‘We have a heart for you that we think is an excellent match,’” DeVorss heard. “I went silent because they had told me it could be up to six months. It was to the day three weeks.”
They had four hours to get to Stanford; it took the DeVorsses two hours and 15 minutes. And, after his successful 13-hour transplant surgery and months of recovery, he began to envision what became Donor Gratitude, a nonprofit that allows organ recipients to express their thanks for the gift of lifesaving transplants. The website also serves as a place where living donors and donor families can hear from people they have helped save.
“ Grateful was the first word that came to mind when I started to think seriously about creating a place to thank all of those who help make this type of miracle come true,” says DeVorss, who, before his heart failure, owned a nursery and landscape construction business.
In August, DeVorss made what he calls his first Tour of Gratitude, sharing stories from his website with transplant hospitals and OPOs (organ procurement organizations), and ending in San Diego at the 2022 Donate Life Transplant Games.
He says he cannot show his appreciation enough and believes that people heal faster and stronger if they have a place to show their gratitude “to all of those who make our gift of life come true.”
For more information, go to donorgratitude.org. JAN HAAG
We 21st century Americans of modest or better means often are able to solve our problems or ease our di culties by purchasing stu . It probably is wishful thinking, however, to think we can buy our way to occupying a greener planet. But we can try!
Here are some capital-region stores that place a premium on the sustainability of their products.
Specializes in wall art and greeting cards. It describes itself thus: “A marketplace for everything Sacramento made. We are a zero-waste, magical nonprofit. All our packaging can be returned to our retail store or picked up from your doorstep with a new same-day delivery order. We are a creative innovation center for sustainability building a circular economy . . . making sustainability easy.” 1020 Front St.
GOODFUL Caters and o ers produce-box subscriptions. “Every single thing Goodful Inc. does is ultimately about creating harmony in our own bodies, amongst each other and in our relationship with the earth. Through Goodful Inc., [founder] Danielle Rinderknecht would like to expand her personal feeling of harmony so that more people can experience connectivity and alignment on all levels when eating, choosing or cultivating food.” 2837 36th St., Unit 1
on next page
Writer Jan Haag (right) with Don DeVorss and Donate Life volunteer Cora Johnson
DeVorss and wife, Julie
Sells a vast array of household products. “Nudge o ers everything you need to start living a natural low-waste lifestyle and it is our goal to make you light up with excitement at what impact you can make! While zero waste is not completely possible, we strive to be the zero waste headquarters for Sacramento and beyond.” 1126 18th St.
O ers clothing, accessories, jewelry and more. “We are passionate about the impact each and every one of us has on this beautiful world—from humanity to the environment. We believe in curating products designed ethically, sustainably, and with purpose. We want you to make a statement by shopping brands that make products the right way, uplifting everyone from the cotton grower to the customer.” 920 24th St.
Sells refi llable lotions, potions and other products, reducing the number of plastic containers in circulation. “Refi ll Madness is a retail store based on the concept opposite of the throw-away culture where everyday products are purchased by weight and packaged in reusable containers. We o er locally made products that are biodegradable and eco-friendly, decreasing our carbon and plastic footprint.” 1828 29th St.
Sells a few bath and laundry products. “Our products are sourced regionally when possible, but we love a small family business no matter what! These are made to last.” 2660A 33rd St.
For more than 25 years, Renaissance Fine Consignment has been a lavish women’s shopping destination, offering accessible highend designer labels at affordable prices. Discover the richness Sacramento has to offer at Renaissance Fine Consignment next to Ettore’s Bakery in Rio Del Oro Plaza.
Fair Oaks Boulevard Sacramento, CA
As his wife of 50 years began to need more care than he could give, Richard did his research. He knew he had found her new home when he walked into CountryHouse and felt immediately at ease.
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We’re dedicated to creating moments of joy for your loved ones.
Learn more about our welcoming communities by visiting CountryHouse.net or talk to a Senior Living Consultant today.
Enjoy the stunning Hillenbrand Farmhouse Brewery in Newcastle where you’ll be welcomed to 13 acres of hops and fruit, premium small batch craft beer and farmhaus-to-fork delectables. Imported German malted barley along with homegrown hops combine to create one-of-a-kind avors. e gorgeous grounds make for the perfect venue for getaways, weddings, corporate events, private parties, fundraisers and more. Dine-in or take out delicious food and beer. 5100 Virginiatown Rd., Newcastle, CA 95658 • www. hillenbrandbrewery.com
“When I walked into the building, I knew my search was over.”
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1022
Local experts explain the importance that our nutrition and exercise choices can have on overall health and longevity. Following are a few tips.
Wellness inside: We caught up with Captain Carrot!
Debbie Hurst
She grabs the handle of her shopping cart and immediately turns the clanky wheels to the perimeter aisles of her local grocery store. It’s there, on the outside, that Christina Spencer fi nds the most nutritious foods to put inside her body.
Spencer is an autoimmune certified health coach and integrative mental health nutritionist who specializes in helping teens dealing with autoimmune issues brought on by food. She, too, su ers from an autoimmune disorder and chose long ago to concentrate on eating healthier foods rather than popping pills. Those healthier foods are always found on the perimeter of grocery stores, she says.
“Think about it,” says Spencer, who owns a consulting business called Caippuccino Health. “The fresh produce is always on the wall. The deli counter with fresh meats, fish and poultry is on the other wall. The processed and unhealthy foods are always on the inside aisles. I stay away from those.”
Spencer takes a holistic approach to nutrition and knows that the fuel we put into our bodies has a direct e ect on our performance. Put leaded, low-octane fuel into a race car and it may not complete a lap. Fuel up with clean foods and watch the engine purr and accelerate through the day. If you aren’t sleeping well, Spencer says, it may be a thyroid or adrenal issue brought on by poor diet.
Clean foods to Spencer are those found on those outer aisles. A very small percentage of her grocery store purchases are not raw foods. And with those raw food purchases, Spencer knows there will be the need for meal prep, but no preservatives.
“If the food you buy at the store doesn’t rot in a week, you probably shouldn’t be eating it,” she says. “There are exceptions to that, of course, such as beans, rice and quinoa.”
Spencer spends a couple of hours each Sunday preparing meals for the week. Sure, that can get boring, she says, but she changes the menu up every week. The meal planning and prep she does help to keep her food
costs down and her nutritional values up.
“For budgeting purposes and overall health, preparing foods at home is key,” says Kim Caudill, a Roseville-based registered dietitian. “If you are not eating most meals at home, I would recommend upping the percentage. For example, if you eat lunch out five days a week, try for just two days of making your own lunch. It takes about three weeks to make this a habit, so commit to three weeks to make small changes.”
Caudill, who owns Lifestyle Nutrition & Dietetics, says meal prepping saves money because her clients buy in bulk and freeze anything not to be consumed in a week. Caudill also recommends buying in-season fruits and vegetables for the best prices; shopping at local farmers markets for fresh produce; purchasing whole poultry, fruits and vegetables and cutting them up yourself; and, when cooking dinner, making double portions and putting the extras in containers to eat for lunch the next day.
“Processed foods are shelf stable due
to the additives that may include high sodium content, added sugar in the form of high-fructose corn syrup and fat in the form of hydrogenated oils,” Caudill says.
“All of these can lead to health issues including obesity, heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. As a registered dietitian, I am an advocate of knowing what you are putting into your body. Therefore, reading labels and being able to recognize all of the ingredients as actual foods is very important.”
The U.S. Department of Agriculture says there are more than 40 di erent kinds of nutrients in food, and they can be classified into seven major groups: carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, water, proteins and fats.
Spencer says a misconception that many people have about fat is that it’s all bad. That’s just not true, she says.
“There are lots of good fats,” Spencer says. “Avocados and nuts have wonderful fats that our bodies need. Our brains are about 70% fat, and if you’re not eating enough of the right kind of fat, then your brain isn’t operating at an optimal level.”
Cary Nosler says the only oil he adds to his meals is extra-virgin olive oil. Better known to Sacramentans as Captain Carrot, Nosler was a mainstay on the
Christina Spencer
Kim Caudill
Sacramento airwaves, fi rst as a DJ at KZAP and then as a health and fitness expert, where he got his moniker. Now 78, Nosler lives in Pasadena on a working farm—an urban farmstead, he calls it.
He says his steamer is his most important and most used kitchen tool. He says he’s no longer a vegetarian because his body needs protein and its amino acids as he ages, and they are hard to come by in sufficient amounts when you’re eating only, well, carrots. His sons treated him to a fi let mignon dinner for Father’s Day, and he chowed down. But lighter fare is the norm for Nosler, who doesn’t look like he’s pushing 80.
“I just cooked in the steamer some Swiss chard, chicken thighs, some t empeh and jicama,” Nosler says. “Tempeh is fermented soy beans and plays a great role in gut health. It’s a pro- and pre-biotic. Jicama is a resistant starch and goes straight to the colon. I’ll season all that with some EVOO, and maybe a dash of apple cider vinegar, and it’s delicious.”
Nosler says he weight trains four times a week. Lifting weights and getting his daily requirement of protein helps him keep muscle mass and good bone density. He says that there’s long been a myth that older people shouldn’t lift weights. It’s the exact opposite, he says.
“In older people, our bodies start to cannibalize our bones and muscle tissue. So we have to combat that or we start to waste away, lose coordination and su er falls,” Nosler says. “We have to weight train to maintain function. I can’t stress this enough.”
The medical term for the loss of muscle mass as we age is sarcopenia. The National Center for Biotechnology Information reports that beginning as early as the fourth decade of life, skeletal muscle mass and skeletal muscle strength decline in a linear fashion, with as much as 50% of mass lost by age 80.
Muscle mass accounts for up to 60% of total body mass, so any changes to this important, metabolically active tissue, the report continues, can have profound
consequences on the older adult. Those consequences of sarcopenia include loss of function, acute and chronic disease states, increased insulin resistance, fatigue, falls and, yes, mortality. Studies have shown that weight training for older women is even more important and can combat a number of chronic ailments, including arthritis.
Nosler says these bits of nutrition and health hints are settled science. That’s not always the case with other health and nutrition schools of thought. Nosler references the recent medical debates on the virtues of eating eggs, ditching all fats from diets and carbohydrates.
“It can get confusing,” Nosler says. “Science always needs validation from within and I still get studies sent to me every day. I see ascending research in the benefits of vitamin D, for instance, which became especially important during the COVID lockdown. Vitamin D still remains one of the most underutilized vitamins around. Well, it’s actually a hormone and not a vitamin.”
Vitamin D is important for people of all ages, but especially for older adults, Nosler says. Vitamin D is required to help absorb calcium from the gut into the bloodstream, where it helps create bone density. It’s mostly produced in the skin when sunlight hits it. We absorb about 10% of our daily vitamin D requirement from healthy foods, the USDA reports.
“Most people aren’t getting enough vitamin D,” Caudill agrees. “Our bodies are so complex that calories alone or exercise alone does not determine our health and body weight. There are many things that play a role in our health, including calorie and protein content. Are we getting enough overall nutrients? What’s the state of our gut health, meaning are you pooping normally? And there’s always are you moving and exercising daily? The current recommendations are that we get 150 minutes of exercise a week, minimum. That would be about 20 minutes a day. Go on a walk, do yoga or stretch at home. Getting in a daily routine is more important than the intensity to start.”
Exercise, coupled with smart choices about nutrition, will lead to healthier outcomes no matter your age.
CARY NOSLER SAYS HE WEIGHT TRAINS FOUR TIMES A WEEK. LIFTING WEIGHTS AND GETTING HIS DAILY REQUIREMENT OF PROTEIN HELPS HIM KEEP MUSCLE MASS AND GOOD BONE DENSITY.Cary Nosler
The following medical professionals stand out in our community.
FOCUS: Our goal is to help people enjoy better self-esteem, happiness, and health by treating unwanted varicose veins and spider veins. Dr. Monahan specializes in treating vein disorders. EDUCATION: UC Davis, BA, Zoology, 1976. Medical School: University of Hawaii, 1981, M.D., Cleveland Clinic Hospital 1981-1984, Virginia Mason Clinic 1984-1987 - completed General Surgery. Residency.
MEMBERSHIPS: American Venous Forum; American College of Surgeons, American Vein and Lymphatic Society (SP). PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT: Published a research project which changed the understanding of varicose veins and treatment. INNOVATIONS: I treat varicose and spider veins in stages, reducing the amount of treatment, potential problems, and costs, and improving results. All the most current knowledge and technology are used in our evaluation and treatment of patients with venous disorders. BEDSIDE MANNER: Patients frequently say ours is the friendliest medical o ce they have ever been to. We treat people personally, with compassion, and the best possible evaluation and treatment. OFF HOURS: Golf, fly-fishing, reading. ADVICE: Treating varicose and spider veins for appearance can improve self-esteem and confidence. But vein disease can also result in significant health issues, with leg pain and swelling, and more. Call our o ce for a consultation.
Monahan Vein Clinic
1211 Pleasant Grove Blvd., Ste.120, Roseville (916) 791-8346 (VEIN) • Veinfocus.com
The Sacramento region is fortunate to have health care professionals who continuously strive to attain ever-higher levels of patient satisfaction through a blend of the latest technologies and careful listening.
FOCUS: Kaufman & Davis Plastic Surgery is focused on aesthetic plastic surgery with an emphasis on breast enhancement, body contouring and comprehensive facial rejuvenation. We also o er an array of non-surgical options for aesthetic improvement. EDUCATION: Dr. Kaufman and Dr. Davis are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Dr. Kaufman received his M.D. from Harvard Medical School and subsequently attended Stanford University for his Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery residency. He is, however, most proud of his time at the U.S. Naval Academy and his active duty service as a Navy SEAL. Dr. Davis attended medical school at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry and also, completed his residency in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Stanford University. WHAT SETS THEM APART: A combination of exceptional training, extensive experience and a passion for excellence di erentiates Kaufman & Davis Plastic Surgery. Supported by a team of caring, fun and energetic professionals, our goal is to make patients feel confident they are in the right place. For that reason, we strive for patients to feel like “extended family” and to be excited about the prospect of self-enhancement. OFF-HOUR ACTIVITIES: Both Dr. Kaufman and Dr. Davis love spending time with their families—preferably traveling, playing, and exploring outdoors. CHECK US OUT: Still a single location practice, we invite you to visit us at our newly built, state-of-the-art, Folsom o ce.
CONTACT INFORMATION: 1841 Iron Point Road, Folsom • (916) 983-9895 • www.thenaturalresult.com
FOCUS: Specialized care for children with a variety of gastrointestinal problems, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, and constipation. Focused on understanding the patient as a whole and empowering the patient to embark on a journey of healing.
SPECIAL INTERESTS & EXPERTISE: Liver diseases, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
EDUCATION: Drexel University College of Medicine; Pediatrics Residency at the University of Maryland; Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship at UCSF.
CONTACT INFORMATION: 2315 Stockton Blvd., Sacramento • 800-UCD-4-KIDS (800-823-4543) children.ucdavis.edu
FOCUS: General Dentistry, including cosmetics, implant restoration, and emergency dental care. EDUCATION: Dr. Homer completed his B.A. at Sacramento State and earned his Doctorate of Medical Dentistry from Washington University. Dr. Grove received a B.S. from Pacific Union College and a Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Loma Linda University. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: Drs. Homer and Grove belong to the ADA/CDA/SDDS. Dr. Grove is also an active participant in the SDDS. WHAT SETS THEM APART: Dr. Homer’s and Dr. Grove’s patients’ appreciation is evident in client loyalty, with 40-year plus patients bringing their children and grandchildren in for treatment. CHARITABLE WORK: Dr. Homer supports Save Ourselves, an organization that provides counseling and peer support to people living with breast cancer. Dr. Grove has participated in overseas dental mission trips and also participates in the Smiles for Big Kids program in Sacramento.
FREE ADVICE: Studies have linked diabetes, heart disease and stroke to gum disease. Oral health is a significant part of overall well-being.
Kendall Homer D.M.D. / Eric Grove D.D.S. 9216 Kiefer Blvd., Suite 5, Sacramento (916) 363-9171
www.grovehomerdentists.com dentist@grovehomerdentists.com
Hal Bartholomew and Diane Wasznicky are experienced, caring divorce lawyers who know that the issues clients face are complex, difficult and emotional. They do everything possible to help clients to divorce with respect, consider the best interests of their children, make wise financial decisions and move forward in their lives. The firm offers a complete range of services for both simple and complex legal needs. While many cases require some degree of litigation to achieve their clients’ objectives, Hal and Diane recognize people desire to reach amicable agreements with their spouse/partner/ other parent on contentious issues. Offering collaborative divorce and divorce mediation, when feasible, contributes to a healthier resolution of disputes. They pride themselves on maintaining the highest standards for integrity and quality representation for their clients in a difficult time.
4740 Folsom Blvd., Sacramento, 95819 (916) 455-5200
www.DivorceWithRespect.com
A local writer shares the joys of zipping around town on two motorized wheels.
inside: Alternative transportation1022
Catherine Enfield
At the peak of this past summer’s gas prices, I pulled into a station and filled my tank with premium-grade gasoline for just $5.75. Granted, my tank only holds a gallon because I ride a scooter.
I have been seeing more scooters around Sacramento over the past year. They have become increasingly popular as more people look for alternative ways to get around the city. To clarify, a moped is a two-wheel vehicle with a motor and pedals. A riding scooter (not stand-up) has a motor but no pedals. Many people use the terms interchangeably.
Riding scooters offer several advantages over other modes of transportation. They are much cheaper to operate and maintain than cars, and they emit far less pollution. Additionally, scooters are more nimble than cars, making them ideal for navigating through traffic-clogged streets. It doesn’t hurt that you never have a problem finding parking. They’re economical, fun and practical.
I had been thinking about getting rid of my car for some time. I live downtown and can walk and bike to many places and events. I could easily grab a rideshare e-bike or e-scooter if I was in a hurry or just tired of walking. I also had noticed an increase of app rental cars, such as Zipcar and GIG, parked strategically around town. I determined that as long as you have a smartphone app and a cred it card, it’s easy to get short-term trans portation. Add in the fact that I have use of a company car and I found myself ask ing why did I need a personal car? I want ed to be rid of the cost of insurance, gas, tires and overall maintenance.
I always rent scooters when I visit Ho nolulu. Then in 2019, Zebra rental elec tric scooters came to Sacramento. For a nominal fee, you could rent a scooter on a monthly basis, keep it at home and ride up to about 30 miles before needing a charge. Top speed: 24 miles per hour. I grabbed the opportunity and rented one for about six weeks until the city of Sac ramento jumped in and said they weren’t properly permitted. Zebra opted to leave California rather than go through the registration process for every scooter.
By this time, I had fallen in love with the scooter. It also didn’t hurt that my
car was hit in a collision, and I had to decide whether to fix it or give it up. I took the insurance money and ran to the scooter shop.
The first Sacramento scooter store that will come up in a search is aptly named Scooter City, near 16th and F streets. I spoke to Steve Barber, founder and prin cipal shareholder, over the phone, and he shared a wealth of information on the different brands of scooters. I immedi ately felt comfortable making a buying decision with his help.
In 1979, Barber opened Barber’s Shop auto repair (on 18th Street), which re paired Italian cars and scooters. Back then they would repair Italian brands such as Vespa and Lambretta. In 1985, Barber bought the local Vespa dealership. Scooter ridership was low in the United States for the next few decades—so low that Vespa closed all its dealerships in the late ’80s. For more than a decade, Vespa d id not sell stateside. Barber soon began carrying Taiwanese-made scooters such as Genuine, Kymco and Sym. Vespa has since returned to selling in the United States; the nearest Vespa dealership is in Elk Grove.
“Basically most of the manufacturing, except for Vespa, is happening in Asia,”
says Barber. “Even Vespa has most of their models built in China.”
Barber agrees with the term “you get what you pay for” when it comes to scoot ers. You can find inexpensive scooters online, even sold on Amazon. Barber says often customers come in to buy a scooter from him after one of those cheaper mod els fails, and the owner is unable to find someone willing to repair it. He recom mends buying from a dealership where you know you can get service, a warran ty and registration.
Scooter City will repair all brands, but as a dealership, it also provides the ser vice of getting its sold vehicles registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles. California vehicle codes call for “motordriven cycles” to be registered in Cali fornia. (This is where Zebra got into trouble when it didn’t want to register its scooters.)
Dealerships also provide warranty ser vices. My Genuine scooter, for instance, has one year of roadside service and a three-year unlimited mileage warranty.
According to the California DMV, “Any person with a valid California driver li cense can operate a short-term (48 hour s or less) rental motorized bicycle . . .” Riders can get by with a general driver license as
long as the moped or scooter has a speed of no more than 30 mph. Once the speed is over 30 mph, a class M1 motorcycle license is required. My scooter goes 65 mph, so I had to register it and get an M1 license.
In San Francisco and other major cities where it is di cult to own a car, you can rent scooters from Revel. Revel has registered each scooter with the state of California. Its fleet of electric NIU scooters is sprinkled within the San Francisco city limits; each has a top speed of close to 30 mph. This allows anyone with a valid driver license to rent one. Each comes with two helmets. Asked whether a NIU can manage the steep hills, Khalid Yasin, head of micromobility at Revel, says, “I think one of the reasons our moped scooters are so popular in San Francisco, over the standing scooters, is that we have more power. The average (rental) distance is about 4 to 5 miles.”
The cost of ownership is considerably lower than that of a car. Costs are determined not only by brand but also by the size of the motor. I opted for a gas-powered Genuine Buddy 170i because I wanted to forgo the worry of charging if I went too far. With my 170cc engine, I can go 65 mph on a tank of gas that will last approximately 90 miles. I can ride it on highways, but that’s a bit scary. The most I do is Highway 160 between downtown and Arden Fair mall. I bought it in 2020 for about $4,500, and my yearly registration and insurance run around $150 each.
I ride my scooter all around the Sacramento region. I’ve ridden to Folsom via Folsom Boulevard and to the Davis Farmers Market via the levee road and to Woodland. Riding down to Clarksburg and the Old Sugar Mill is also popular and beautiful.
On a Saturday afternoon in July, a line of scooters sat in front of a Land Park co ee shop. A group of scooter enthusiasts gathered to partake in a poker run. They are part of the Sacramento Scooter Days Facebook group. Almost all the parked scooters were vintage Vespas and Lambrettas. The riders were all friendly and I quickly felt welcome even though my 2020 Genuine was the newest of the bunch. It wasn’t long before we were zipping fi rst up to a doughnut shop on Folsom Boulevard, down to Florin Road to visit a boba shop, then to a couple of bars before ending the ride in midtown. My poker hand was a bust, but that was beside the point. I had achieved my goal of meeting others for a group ride after havi ng spent the past two years riding solo.
I RIDE MY SCOOTER ALL AROUND THE SACRAMENTO REGION. I’VE RIDDEN TO FOLSOM VIA FOLSOM BOULEVARD AND TO THE DAVIS FARMERS MARKET VIA THE LEVEE ROAD AND TO WOODLAND. RIDING DOWN TO CLARKSBURG AND THE OLD SUGAR MILL IS ALSO POPULAR AND BEAUTIFUL.
Prices have risen. As with everything during the pandemic, the supply chain for scooters and their parts has been impacted. According to Barber, it may not be so much the parts themselves as the problems that occurred with shipping and receiving the cargo at the ports. Many manufacturers have increased prices to cover those issues. I noticed recently that the price of my model has gone up by about $500 this year.
Parking is a breeze. I happen to live downtown, so I do a lot of navigating around midtown. I never have much trouble fi nding a spot and never have to pay at a parking meter. I did get a ticket once for parking too far into the pedestrian right of way on a sidewalk. I’m more careful now.
Kate Dana, one of the organizers of the poker run, has been riding vintage scooters for 20 years. She has owned several and currently rides a 1966 Vespa Sprint 150. Dana participates in events throughout California, hauling her Vespa in the back of her Honda. She lived for a few years in San Francisco and admits the hills can be a challenge. Then she came for a group ride to the Sacramento area and loved the wide roads and flatness of the area. It became a major reason why she moved to Sacramento shortly after. “It’s dangerous with tra c and stu ,” she says, “but (Sacramento) is very scooter friendly. I think we have an advantage here. And the scooter people here are so friendly.”
She o ers this advice: “For anybody who wants to get into it, talk to a lot of people. Any time you see somebody out with a scooter that looks like something you want to ride, talk to them. I get a lot of people who ask me questions about cost, safety, etc. I would also figure out what you want it for. If you want it for commuting or long distance, don’t buy an old scooter like mine. If you’re nostalgic like me . . . I’ve always ridden vintage.”
2636 Latham Drive, Sacramento, CA 95864 (916) 481-8811 | saccds.org
Sacramento Country Day School is an independent, co-educational school providing a dynamic and academically challenging environment for Pre K— 12th grade students.
Students experience small class sizes and a uniquely close community that encourages them to try new approaches, explore new perspectives, and discover themselves in each new experience. Country Day’s personal learning environment offers a wide array of opportunities to discover and pursue students’ unique strengths and talents with passion.
Guided by teachers who know them well, Country Day students are fully engaged in their own education and develop a lifelong love of learning.
At Sacramento Country Day, we are committed to providing an individualized education that encourages students to Think Critically, Live Creatively, and Act Compassionately.
We are now accepting applications for the 2023-2024 school year! Our Priority Application Deadline is February 15th. Visit our website at saccds.org to schedule your parent tour, register for our November 5th Open House, or explore our curriculum. We look forward to meeting your family soon!
Camellia Waldorf • Cedar Springs Waldorf Davis Waldorf • Live Oak Waldorf • Sacramento Waldorf www.sacwaldorf.org/sacramentowaldorf
The Sacramento region is home to five Waldorf schools affiliated with the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America. Our shared goal is to provide Waldorf education to as many children as possible, building confidence and imagination through the educational philosophy developed by Rudolf Steiner in 1919.
Waldorf education focuses on a child’s developmental stage, prioritizing wonder, creativity, and imagination as essential childhood values. Rigorous academics in the upper grades provide strong math and sciences interwoven with fine and practical arts.
Music, dance, theater, writing, literature and imaginative play are building blocks for deep thinking and character-building. Teachers focus on students’ intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual capacities.
Waldorf education is an early childhood through 12th grade journey. We invite you to visit our campuses for tours and experience what a Waldorf education can do for your child!
Learn more at www.sacwaldorf.org/sacramentowaldorf
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LOCAL WEBSITE Sacramento Magazine
Quick Quack Car Wash
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Total Beauty Experience
REAL ESTATE AGENT IN EL DORADO COUNTY
Pat Seide
REAL ESTATE AGENT IN SACRAMENTO COUNTY
Tanya Curry
REAL ESTATE AGENT IN PLACER COUNTY
Mercedeh Sheik
REAL ESTATE AGENT IN YOLO COUNTY
Kelly Brown
RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTOR
Chriswell Home Improvements
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Sun City Lincoln Hills
WEDDING VENUE
The Willow Ballroom & Event Center
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Yoga Shala Sacramento
Best Music Instruction School of Rock
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at Arden Hills
Best Movie Theater The Tower Theatre by Angelika
Coin-Op Game Room
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Parkside Inn & Spa
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Thunder Valley Casino Resort
COMEDY CLUB Punch Line Sacramento DANCE CLUB Badlands
DOG PARK Brooks Truitt Park PARK William Land Park
ESCAPE ROOM Red Door Escape Room
EVENT DJ Beat Fleet DJs
HOTEL Kimpton Sawyer Hotel
KARAOKE BAR Pine Cove Tavern
LGBT BAR The Mercantile Saloon
LOCAL BREWERY Track 7 Brewing Co.
LOCAL PUBLIC GOLF COURSE Haggin Oaks Golf Complex
LOCAL SPORTS TEAM Sacramento Kings
LIVE MUSIC VENUE Ace of Spades
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MINIATURE GOLF COURSE Flatstick Pub
MOVIE THEATER The Tower Theatre by Angelika MUSEUM Crocker Art Museum
PLACE TO TAKE DANCE LESSONS Sac Dance Lab
PLACE TO VOLUNTEER Habitat for Humanity
WINERY IN AMADOR COUNTY Belledor Vineyards
WINERY IN EL DORADO COUNTY Boeger Winery
WINERY IN LODI Michael David Winery
WINERY IN PLACER COUNTY Vina Castellano
WINERY IN YOLO COUNTY Great Bear Vineyards
Best Casino for Gaming Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
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JEWELER Sharif Fine Jewelers
LOCALLY OWNED MEN’S CLOTHING STORE Julius
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LOCALLY OWNED WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE Identity Boutique
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Jesse MacDonald Made
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PLACE TO BUY HOME FURNISHINGS Naturwood Home Furnishings
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Good Bottle
PLACE TO GET A COSTUME Evangeline’s
PRODUCTS MADE IN SACRAMENTO Blue Diamond Almonds
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SHOPPING DISTRICT Midtown
Westfield Galleria at Roseville
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Beers Books
Best Florist Relles Florist
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BEST OF THE BEST (MEDIUM PRICED) Shangri-La
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AMBIENCE
Allora
BAKERY Freeport Bakery
BAR FOOD
The Butterscotch Den
BARBECUE Urban Roots
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BRUNCH
The Mimosa House
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Taylor’s Market
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CASINO RESTAURANT Council Oak Steaks & Seafood at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
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Deneb Williams, Allora
CHEF, UP AND COMING Ravin Patel, The 7th Street Standard
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COFFEEHOUSE Temple Coffee Roasters
COMFORT FOOD The Porch
CUPCAKES Sugar Coated Cupcakes
DELI Corti Brothers
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DOG-FRIENDLY PATIO Der Biergarten
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FAST CASUAL Burger Patch
FOOD TRUCK Cousins Maine Lobster
FRIED CHICKEN Nash & Proper
GLUTEN FREE Sibling by Pushkin’s GOURMET COOKIES Crumbl Cookies
HAPPY HOUR The Firehouse Restaurant
HEALTH-CONSCIOUS MENU Mendocino Farms
HOTEL RESTAURANT Echo & Rig
ICE CREAM PARLOR Leatherby’s Family Creamery
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Savory Cafe
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NOODLES Ryujin Ramen House
OUTDOOR DINING The Firehouse Restaurant
PIZZA Pizza Supreme Being
PLACE TO TAKE THE KIDS The Old Spaghetti Factory
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WINE LIST The Firehouse Restaurant
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IN AUBURN Restaurant Josephine
IN DOWNTOWN/ MIDTOWN The Waterboy
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IN OLD SACRAMENTO The Firehouse Restaurant
IN EL DORADO HILLS Milestone Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
IN ELK GROVE Journey to the Dumpling
IN FAIR OAKS Shangri-La
IN FOLSOM Land Ocean
IN GRANITE BAY Hawks
IN LINCOLN Old Town Pizza
IN LODI Towne House Restaurant at Wine & Roses
IN LOOMIS High-Hand Cafe
IN NATOMAS Bella Bru
IN PLACERVILLE Heyday Cafe
IN RANCHO CORDOVA Brookfields Restaurant
IN ROCKLIN The Chef’s Table
IN ROSEVILLE Bennett’s American Cooking
IN WEST SACRAMENTO Franquette
IN WOODLAND Doggeros
Best Pizza Pizza Supreme Being
A writer who splits his time between Sacramento and San Diego shares what he enjoys most about the city in the southernmost part of our state.
For the past year, I have divided my time between my home in Sacramento and that of my partner, who lives in San Diego, in a district that abuts the lovely hillside campus of the University of San Diego. Some weeks I choose the 80-minute fl ight; other weeks, if I want more flexibility, I drive. It’s a long drive, somewhere between eight and nine hours, but a fairly easy one, straight down Interstate 5, through the LA conurbation, and southward to San Diego. I know I’m almost home when I pass the Mormon temple just west of the freeway. From there, it’s just another 15 minutes.
San Diego is easy to like. Nine out of 10 days its weather is perfect, with copious amounts of sun and mild temperatures that usually hover in the high 60s to low 80s. Spoiled by the ideal weather, locals complain when the sun doesn’t come out, regarding it almost as a personal a ront from the gods above.
Befitting the perennially sunny climate, the beaches in this part of the state are glorious. Some, like the vast stretch of golden sand along CORONADO ISLAND , rival Malibu or Miami Beach for sheer sunbathing fantasy. One early evening this past June, I was lying on the beach there, the towers of the fabled Hotel del Coronado to my left, when I suddenly saw dolphins, about 100 yards o shore, launching themselves out of the water in frolicking play. Other stretches of sand, like PACIFIC BEACH , are carnivalesque, more akin to Venice Beach, the side streets fi lled with cafes and funky clothing stores, with music venues, surf shops and pot dispensaries. Some beaches— the ones with particularly strong surf and rip tides—are reserved for surfers, and when the large waves roll in, hundreds of enthusiasts paddle out in their wet suits to try their luck. And then there are the cli s: the wild
Hotel del Coronado
Pacifi
rocks of SUNSET CLIFFS NATURAL PARK in the south part of the coastline and, toward the north, the marvelous walks at LA JOLLA COVE (a short hop from the sprawling UCSD campus). At La Jolla, see hundreds of seals and sea lions, as well as cormorants, pelicans and a slew of other creatures. Nearby: the stunning vistas of TORREY PINES STATE RESERVE . It’s possible to hike for hours in these areas, then drive a short distance to one or another fi rst-rate beachfront restaurant to while away the evening.
I could spend every day walking these cli s and never grow bored by the views and the wildlife. For me, the cares of the world dissipate on these trails. It becomes almost a meditative experience. And the sunsets . . . don’t even get me started on the vision that is the Pacific as the sun drops down over the horizon, the ocean waters sparkle golden, and the sky turns fiery colors.
And the sunsets . . . don’t even get me started on the vision that is the Pacific as the sun drops down over the horizon, the ocean waters sparkle golden, and the sky turns fiery colors.
Torrey Pines
La Jolla Cove
Crystal Pier at Pacifi c Beach
In Southern California lore, San Diego is the underappreciated baby sibling of LA, a smaller, tamer version of the Hollywood mythos. Traditionally, it has been thought of as lower down the SoCal totem pole, a conservative, sleepy sort of place, its politics defi ned by the military’s outsized footprint, its culture, under the Mediterranean climate that makes it so appealing year-round, homogenous and bland. Tourists would come to the city for its WORLD-FAMOUS ZOO , its WILDLIFE SAFARI PARK , for LEGOLAND and SEA WORLD . But they generally wouldn’t come for culture in a city that was seen as being somehow void of sophistication.
I doubt that stereotype was ever fully true, and it’s certainly not so now. Sure, people come for the zoos and amusement parks—which are outstanding—but also for plenty of other rich experiences. These days, the city is a pastiche of ethnic groups and neighborhoods. It’s got an appealing hum of life to it that makes it one of the most attractive locales in the state. There’s a LITTLE ITALY near the downtown that is as vibrant and as chock-full of good restaurants as any Little Italy in the country. OLD TOWN is fi lled with Mexican restaurants where one can listen to mariachi music, drink excellent margaritas and devour huge, steaming plates of good food. There are strip malls with wonderful Asian restaurants and supermarkets. The bohemian neighborhood of HILLCREST has long been a center of gay culture. The area around LIBERTY STATION , which used to be a naval training center, is now a huge arts district, with a massive food court, a slew of fi rst-rate restaurants and watering holes, and numerous artists’ studios and galleries. Planes from the nearby airport fly low overhead here, providing a near-constant soundtrack to an evening out.
It’s got an appealing hum of life to it that makes it one of the most attractive locales in the state.
The Hot Spot pottery at Liberty Station
Luce Court in Liberty Station
Liberty Public Market
Liberty Public Market
Balboa Park is one of the country’s most beautiful urban parks.
BALBOA PARK , one of the country’s most beautiful urban parks, boasts a clutch of museums, most of them arranged along an avenue in the center of the park that was built as a part of the Panama-California Exposition that showcased exhibits from around the world between 1915 and 1917. The museums aren’t the caliber of, say, the New York Met, but they can certainly hold their own against the museums in most cities in the United States. One can spend a pleasant few hours learning about California’s past in the NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM , or viewing art at the MINGEI , or perusing photos at the MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS , or taking in the latest exhibit at the MUSEUM OF US (previously known as the Museum of Man). Also in Balboa Park, you can wander within a stunning ROSE GARDEN , an explosively beautiful CACTUS WILDERNESS or, for a small entrance fee, the manicured JAPANESE TEA GARDEN .
Deeper into the park, there’s an ORGAN PAVILION , where concerts are played on one of the world’s largest organs. This past spring, my partner and I attended a showing of some Laurel and Hardy and Buster Keaton silent fi lm classics, with live organ accompaniment. From start to fi nish, it was stunningly good entertainment. And there’s THE OLD GLOBE THEATER . An outdoor theater modeled on Shakespeare’s Old Globe in London, it routinely hosts some of the best stage productions on the West Coast. In recent years, San Diego has built up a deserved reputation for showcasing blockbuster plays before they debut on Broadway in New York.
A few miles away, the city’s symphony orchestra plays its concerts at a giant outdoor venue, THE RADY SHELL AT JACOBS PARK , which is perched right on the water’s edge. Music lovers can make a long evening of it, arriving early to buy food and drinks, then picnicking while listening to world-class classical music. As the dusk gives way to darkness, the Shell changes color. Sometimes it’s a luminescent purple, other times it sports reds and greens and blues. It can be seen for miles, a massive artificial seashell towering over the docked yachts in the nearby marina.
The diversity of the city is reflected, too, these days, in its politics. San Diego’s current mayor is Todd Gloria, who is both a person of color and openly gay. During the Trump years, the city became an epicenter of protest against border policies such as family separation. Many weekends saw demonstrations led by clergy of various faiths along the border just to the city’s south. More recently, large crowds of protestors have been taking to the streets around the civic center to protest the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade.
In the post-World War II decades, the city cultivated a reputation as a conservative, suburban bastion. Today it feels more complex, more edgy, a region that has clearly and consciously come into its own. And at the same time, it’s great fun, a place where it’s easy to eat and drink well, to pamper yourself and experience the good times in life.
Organ Pavilion
Museum of Us and California Tower
Ashton and Price has been representing the Sacramento region’s injury victims for over 25 years. From the smallest injury claim to multi-million-dollar catastrophic losses, the law firm of Ashton and Price strives to treat every case with the highest level of professional attention. During the last quarter of a century, Ashton and Price has been entrusted to shepherd thousands of injury victims through the most disruptive and troubling challenges of their lives. Ashton and Price is humbled by its clients’ bestowed confidence and would like to take this opportunity to thank their clients, both past and present, for their trust with the promise to strive to continue to be worthy of this honor.
With a professional background as an advertising executive in Los Angeles and San Francisco, Maura moved to the Sacramento region in 2001 with her husband and business partner David, to raise their two young daughters in the wonderful community of El Dorado Hills. A lifelong real estate and interior design enthusiast, Maura launched her “career 2.0” in real estate in 2014. Within five years she was the topranked Realtor for El Dorado Hills residential sales, and hasn’t looked
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team closed over $100 million in sales in 2021, and she continues to set the bar for professionalism, integrity, and results in a highly competitive and demanding industry. In 2017 Maura co-founded the Keller Williams Realty o ce in El Dorado Hills, which has grown into one of the leading local brokerages with over 100 agents, and is widely recognized for its collaborative culture and contributions to the local community.
Facial Cosmetic Surgery Associates, a premiere facial plastic surgery practice, serves the aesthetic needs of patients throughout California and beyond. Fellowship trained in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Thomas Kani has quite literally been changing the face of Sacramento for over 27 years. Having performed over 25,000 procedures Dr. Kani is uniquely qualified to evaluate and treat all aesthetic aspects of the nose, face and neck, with both noninvasive
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In 2017, family members Shelly Schnetz, Stephanie Sikich and Sammy Schnetz took ownership of this treasured local cupcake bakery. Icing on the Cupcake was founded in 2007, and had a rollercoaster ride of growth throughout the next decade as it passed through the hands of multiple owners. Today, the business operates out of three locations in the Sacramento area that are open for in-store pick up, as well as local delivery and wholesale orders. The bakery is known for its vast
o ering of unique cupcake flavors that are made from scratch daily with quality ingredients and provide the perfect addition to any special occasion. The business prides itself on its dedication to creating quality products and providing exceptional customer service, as well as continuing to o er unique dessert options. All three locations have been renovated in the last two years and now o er co ee as well as vegan and gluten-free cupcakes.
From left to right: Shelly Schnetz, Co-Owner; Stephanie Sikich, Co-Owner.
Capital Protection Group (CPG) was founded by two Sacramento Locals. Stornaiuolo, a Sacramento State Alum and Offensive Lineman for the Hornets found his calling in the security field in 2013. Along with CPG, he is the Director of Security for one of BART’s biggest construction projects in the Bay Area in the last
50 years. Schubert has been in the local Bar/Service Industry for over 22 years with mentoring partners such as Randy Paragary, Trevor Shults and Bob Simpson. With over 35 years of combined security experience, the two partners formed CPG in 2019 with hopes to provide a new brand of Private Security for every type of
business. Stornaiuolo and Schubert envisioned a business model with personnel that were not merely well trained, respectful, courteous, and professional, but take tremendous pride in the way they present themselves, prioritizing CPG’s appearance standards. With any business, CPG understands that the security staff is a direct extension of the companies that hire the firm. Whether CPG is securing a Local Nightclub, Commercial Construction Site, Visiting VIP or a Political Rally on the steps of the Capitol, the security firm provides exceptional service while
holding themselves to the highest of standards. With clients that range from Mix Downtown, Park Ultra Lounge and Delta King Hotel to The Von Housen Automotive Group, Avenue 5 and Colliers International, CPG is rapidly expanding and providing employment for upwards of 40 young men and women. They hope to staff 100+ officers by the end of 2023. Capital Protection Group is committed to building a staff that reflects the incredibly diverse Sacramento Community in which they serve.
Father-Son duo Cli ord Lynch and CJ Lynch founded Red Dog Real Estate in 2017. However, their expertise is proven with over 30 years of combined experience. Their clients remain loyal and trust Red Dog because of their careful negotiations, market knowledge, and devotion to excellence. Their ability to craft unique purchase and sale strategies for each client has enabled Red Dog to position itself as the face of real estate in the Greater Sacramento Area. Red Dog is community-
invested through their “Give Back” program, although they admittedly have a particular bias for their canine friends. This past September Red Dog Real Estate inaugurated its California headquarters in the heart of downtown Sacramento. Their new home will host agents, operations sta and serve as a hub for innovative collaboration bringing clients across California to their new properties. Whether it’s an estate, second home, or condominium – Red Dog will exceed expectations.
Marlene von Friederichs-Fitzwater is the founder of Joshua’s House Volunteer Hospice, California’s first facility dedicated to caring for homeless, terminally ill people. The facility is slated to open later this year and will provide free end-of-life comfort care for up to twenty patients. Joshua’s House is named after Ms. Friederichs-Fitzwater’s grandson, a homeless person himself, who passed away on the streets in Omaha, NE. Ms. Friederichs-Fitzwater explains, “To have cancer or some other life-threatening disease and to be homeless—we’ve got
81 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION to create places for these people to be cared for, because you can’t have hospice care if you don’t have a home.” The facility’s sta will o er comfort care–including meals, clothing, therapy–at no cost to the care recipient. Local health system partners will provide quality hospice care. Please take a moment to learn about ways in which you can provide funding to help terminally ill homeless people in our community. Personal and corporate donation information can be found at www.joshuashousehospice.org.
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TITLE Boxing Club in Sacramento is owned and operated by city natives, husband and wife duo-Blake and Jennifer Kidwell. They are currently located at the Ice Blocks in downtown and recently signed a lease for their second location in an Arden-Arcade redevelopment project, located at the Pavilions Shopping Center. Blake and Jennifer share a passion for health and fitness and have a deep sense of pride in their local Sacramento community. They are excited to expand their fitness concept to a neighborhood they love, and they know it will serve as an anchor in the community. The goal of TITLE Boxing Club is to provide a place where people of all ages, all bodies, all weights, all abilities can experience the most empowering, exhilarating, and
addictive workout of their life while enjoying a supportive, encouraging community. Their proprietary 52-week journey incorporates skill progression techniques and interval training for a true full-body workout in a ‘no-judgments’ environment. Each authentic heavy bag boxing workout combines the benefits of high impact training and stress relief, while incorporating skills and fun into each class. “We are so excited to introduce this workout we both love to those who have never experienced it before,” says Jennifer. “Come try out a class on us and see what we are all about! We are confident you will fall in love with the welcoming, inspiring community we have worked hard to build. It’s one like no other!”
With over 40 years of combined surgical experience and thousands of satisfied patients, IDEAL PLASTIC SURGERY is your destination for experience and safety when you’re ready to invest in yourself! Our new State-of-the-art surgery center in Sacramento is home to our smiling team of expert plastic surgeons: Dr. Boone, Dr. Deb, Dr. Pirko and Dr Miller.
Contamos con mas the 40 años combinados de experiencia en cirugía plástica. IDEAL PLASTIC SURGERY es su casa para cuando usted desee cirugía plástica segura que le ayude a lucir ideal! Nuestro centro quirúrgico certificado es su es el mas moderno y tenemos un equipo completo que le habla en su idioma. Nuestros sonrientes cirujanos: el Dr Boone, La Dra Deb, el Dr Pirko y la Dra Miller le esperan como en familia!
Chriswell Home Improvements. Inc. is a Veteran-Owned Home Improvement company committed to providing beautiful, long lasting, energy-e cient products to homeowners in the Greater Sacramento and surrounding areas. Our broad range of home improvement services includes Roofing, Siding, Windows, Patio Doors, Exterior Painting & Coating, and Kitchen & Bathroom Remodels! Chriswell Home Improvements is a Golden Rule company. Caring for every home as if it
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Welcome to Northern California’s premier hair salon with 4 locations to best serve the community. Willo Salons is proud to be Aveda’s top account using 100% vegan products for all guests’ needs. Owner, Sarina Paulson, leaders Chelsea Pellow & Jodie Travis along with their talented team of professionals, work every day to provide the highest level of service. From alternative hair solutions such as wigs & toppers, to extensions, treatments, hair color and cuts, Willo Salons is here to take
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SARINA
Karen’s love of people, genuine concern, exuberant personality and great business sense have made her one of Sacramento County’s Top Residential Real Estate Brokers year after year. For over 30 years, her clients have recognized her market knowledge, tireless attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to results. Throughout the years, generations of families remain loyal and utilize Karen’s talents and expertise to help them buy and sell again and again. Karen enjoys living and selling homes in Rancho Murieta, and is the Top Producing agent in her community. She also has a proven track record throughout Sacramento, Placer, El Dorado and Amador Counties. It’s very important to Karen to give back; she continues to contribute to her many favorite charities: Weave, Red Cross, Kiwanis, Happy Tails, Jacob’s Angels and to firefighters and victims of fire throughout Northern California. EXPERIENCE. KNOWLEDGE. RESULTS. Karen was the Top Producing Residential Real Estate Agent in Sacramento County in 2020.
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Think that painting for sale is inaccessible, either financially or because you don’t know enough about art to trust your own tastes? Think again.
Brooke Abrames, co-executive director of Blue Line Arts
One of Stephanie Taylor’s professors in her graduate program for sculpture at Sacramento State would have students stare at a piece of art for an hour. Most museum visitors spend only about 30 seconds gazing at one work of art—and those are masterpieces. Looking for so long could feel daunting at first. “Then all of a sudden, after a certain time, you start seeing stuff that you just never would have seen or appreciated,” Taylor says.
Truly appreciating art demands time, attention and an in-person viewing, especially for those choosing art to buy. “There’s no replacement for going to visit and seeing the actual work,” says Taylor, a studio artist since 1977 whose murals and sculptures can be found throughout the Sacramento region, with many of her other creations in collections across the United States and in Paris and Kyoto, Japan. “You might like a subject matter, you might like the content or what the narrative of a piece is, if it has one. You might be drawn to the application of the medium, the skill of the artist.”
In 2021, global art and antique sales reached a mas sive $60.5 billion, according to the annual Art Market report commissioned by Art Basel and UBS. This figure represents a 29 percent increase over the prior year, ending a deep recession for the global art market. The report’s authors describe this recovery as “particu larly strong for major auction houses and galleries in the top echelons.” Much of the recovery can be attrib uted to “incredibly high-priced pieces” and “stagger ingly” wealthy individuals.
But buying art is actually more accessible than one might assume, says Liv Moe, founding director of Verge Center for the Arts in Sacramento’s Southside Park neighborhood. “If people realize that a lot of the art is not as expensive as they think it’s going to be, and col lecting really can just be about forging relationships with artists in your community, I think that changes the calculus a little bit,” she says.
Step aside, leisure class. Original art, Moe says, is for everyone.
Among the many cultural shifts prompted by the pan demic, people who have transitioned to remote work now pay more attention to their living spaces. They want those areas to feel nice. “Whether it was their home or office they were spending more time in, if they were getting tired of their space and needed something to freshen it up, art became a way for them to do that,” says Brooke Abrames, co-executive director of Blue Line Arts in downtown Roseville.
With the help of vaccines and a desire for normalcy, people have begun re-entering galleries that are eager to welcome them. Sacramento’s long-running Second Saturday art walk has also returned—good news for potential buyers wanting that in-person artwork ex perience.
That’s because photographs don’t represent a work’s full scale. Colors get lost in digital translation. An In stagram post diminishes emotion. And a two-dimen sional version can’t convey texture, says Cynthia Lou, curator and owner of Sparrow Gallery in Sacramento’s R Street Corridor. Her gallery represents many mixedmedia artists, along with painters, ceramicists and photographers. Artist Dianne Poinski, for example, creates by first gluing an archival pigment print onto a panel. Then she brushes layers of a clear encaustic medium (beeswax mixed with damar resin) over the print and fuses it with heat. She might also add embel lishments. These details are nearly impossible to de liver through a screen.
Potential buyers should see as much art as possible to develop their own tastes, Abrames says, because when it comes time to hand over the credit card, the
“Amphora #7,” by Stephanie Taylorbuyer needs to trust in those tastes. The local secondary art market is small, so when a con sumer buys a piece, they might be stuck with it for a while. The best advice for feel ing confident in one’s decision?
“Usually, people buy art they love,” Abrames says. “I don’t think there’s a much better strategy than that.”
Galleries in the Sacramento region like Elliott Fouts Gallery, which opened in 1999 and later moved to mid town Sacramento, can attract those interested in rep resentational landscape and still-life painting, nonrep resentational art and Funk ceramics. John Natsoulas Center for the Arts in Davis, considered one of the top galleries in California, showcases pre-eminent West Coast artists. There are also newer venues to explore, such as Twisted Track Gallery on R Street, which re cently held a group show curated by local independent curator Faith J. McKinnie.
“A person should be prepared to spend some time in a gallery when it’s quiet and really do justice to the pieces they’re attracted to and even the ones they are not,” Taylor says. “Lots of people don’t have time and they want to be more spontaneous. Great. But chances
are the longer you spend before you purchase it, the greater the appreciation will be over the years.”
Patris Miller, who runs Patris Studio and Art Gallery in Sacramento’s Oak Park neighborhood, says buyers can discover an array of styles, subject matter and mediums by visiting galleries. “For the beginning col lector, just spending some time thinking, looking, enjoying the visual sensation of the art and then al lowing it to speak on a more visceral level” is invaluable, Miller says. Talking to galler ists can also add a “nice level of richness” to the art-buying process.
“USUALLY, PEOPLE BUY ART THEY LOVE,” BROOKE ABRAMES SAYS. “I DON’T THINK THERE’S A MUCH BETTER STRATEGY THAN THAT.”
And there’s no need to be in timidated: Gallery representatives enjoy interacting with curious visitors, even novices. “Everyone here is thrilled when you ask a question that we can tell you more about the art and the artist,” Abrames says. “Genuine interest is always appreciated, and if you have time to do a little bit of homework on what you’re looking for, that is always helpful to the conversation.”
Art isn’t necessarily financially out of reach. The walls of a grungy garage or a tattoo parlor might be where some buyers discover their reasonably priced master piece. Many artists accept payment plans. Galleries often sell limited-run prints of originals featured in a show. Buyers can inquire about custom commissions, which a gallery might help facilitate with the artist.
Above: Beth Baugher Cynthia Lou, curator and owner of Sparrow Gallery “When Life Hands You Lemons,” by Jennnifer LugrisSparrow Gallery holds an annual show of painted vinyl records with price points under $300. “It makes it a little bit more feasible on the pocketbook for new collectors,” Lou says.
popular, Lou says, referencing collage artist Jill Allyn Sta ord, whose creations incorporate family letters and her grandfather’s cookbooks.
“WE ARE USED TO NAVIGATING THE WORLD IN A VERY VERBAL WAY, WHERE YOU’RE PUTTING WORDS TO EVERYTHING YOU’RE EXPERIENCING THROUGH SIGHT AND HEARING, FEELING,” ARTIST JENNIFER LUGRIS SAYS. “BUT ART IS MORE INTUITIVE. IT’S MORE EMOTIONAL.”
A new collector hesitant to make a big investment might start by patronizing emerging artists. Or they might buy less-expensive smaller pieces or prints, frame them, and curate an eclectic gallery wall as a home’s focal point. They should be open to taking risks, says Moe, who gravitates toward art that challenges or intrigues her, rather than settling for a straightforward painting or what looks most aesthetically pleasing.
“When I collect work, I get excited about the idea of how I can live with something that maybe isn’t just a framed thing I’m going to put on the wall or a sculpture I’m going to set on a shelf,” she says. Moe has a treasured piece her late friend and artist Nathan Cordero made out of a magnolia leaf; a framer crafted a shadow box to suspend and protect the leaf, which would have otherwise disintegrated.
At Sparrow Gallery, paintings of the American River and Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta resonate with patrons. With abstract art, color seems to be what grabs viewers. Personal pieces that evoke emotion are also
Sacramento artist Jennifer Lugris often fi nds herself enamored with art but not quite able to articulate why. “We are used to navigating the world in a very verbal way, where you’re putting words to everything you’re experiencing through sight and hearing, feeling,” she says. “But art is more intuitive. It’s more emotional. Sometimes there’s a work of art that captivates me, and it’s very hard to put in words why I’m feeling the way I’m feeling, why I connected to that piece and I just have to have it.”
For her own art, Lugris paints simple moments or things—a mother breastfeeding her child, a houseplant— and infuses them with colorful, fun patterns to elevate the moments to small miracles. Her artwork is about showing gratitude for the everyday experiences of life, says Lugris, who comes from a long line of refugees, her ancestors having fled dictatorships in North Korea and South America. She believes collectors buy her work because they connect with her story.
“You’re not only buying this beautiful piece, but you’re also buying an experience from the artist,” Lugris says. “You’re connecting with this other human being. In a way, it reminds us of all of our humanity and all of our connections and how we’re all trying to live a happy, fulfi lling life. That’s what art can be about.”
“Dewdrops or Morning’s Secret,” by Dianne PoinskiWomen Behind the Lens—Opening at Crocker Art Museum: Modern Women, Modern Vision: Photography From the Bank of Amer ica Collection , a traveling exhibition of more than 100 images by Dorothea Lange, Cindy Sherman, Imogen Cunningham and other female artists. Diverse in tone, style and subject, the works reveal women photographers’ contributions to the me dium from 1905 to 2015. crockerart.org
It’s All Greek to Me—It’s a big, fat celebration of Hel lenic culture at Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation’s 59th an nual Sacramento Greek Festival . Savor authentic Greek cuisine and drink, shop for Mediterranean treasures, cheer on folk dancers and work off that baklava by line dancing to live Greek bands—all in a festive, outdoor villagelike setting. Opa! sacra mentogreekfestival.com
Rockin’ the Park—Arguably the hottest ticket in town, Aftershock attracts tens of thousands of hard rock and heavy metal fans to Discovery Park every October for the West Coast’s biggest rock fes tival. The lineup—more than 90 bands on four stages over four days— includes headliners Slip knot, Kiss, My Chemical Romance, Muse (pictured above), Evanescence and Rob Zombie. aftershock festival.com
Potty Mouth— Count on Comedy Cen tral stalwart and stand-up sensation Amy Schumer to talk about sex when she brings her worldwide Whore Tour to Memorial Auditorium. Famous for her raunchy subject mat ter and self-deprecating s tyle, the award-winning comedian, actress, writer, director and producer is crude, controversial, captivating—and laughout-loud funny. amy schumer.com
Country’s in Town—Country music fans get their due at the inaugural GoldenSky, a two-day music fest in Discovery Park boast ing some of country’s biggest names: Tim McGraw, Sam Hunt, Mid land, Parmalee, Brothers Osborne, Carly Pearce, Michael Ray, Diamond Rio and many more. Also on tap: a craft beer festi val, farm-to-fork food, lo cal artisans and a dance hall saloon. goldensky festival.com
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AT CLOUD BAR, AN UPSCALE WINE BAR and tasting room that opened last fall in El Dorado Hills, Savita Sachdeva smartly transformed what had been an ordinary strip mall storefront into a moody hideaway filled with little luxuries.
Midnight-blue walls and a coordi nating high-back velvet banquette inject instant drama into the space, which is designed to accommodate both in-person and virtual tastings with winemakers from around the world. The 13-footlong handcrafted communal table at the center of the room invites visitors to mix and mingle. “I wanted people to enjoy sitting together and talking and sharing wine,” explains Sachdeva, who personally drew the layout for the cumulus-like cluster of globe pendants overhead.
Sachdeva, an interior designer who owns Cloud Bar with her husband, Raj (the couple also operates Lakeforest Wines in the same shopping center), says “the design is a big part of making the space warm and cozy and giving you the right feel.” Cheers to that catherine warmerdam
2222FranciscoDrive,ElDoradoHills; (916)293-9372;cloudbarz.com
INTERIOR DESIGNER NATALIE THOMPSON has brought her easy, breezy SoCal style to Sacramento with The Witching Post, an interior design studio and home décor shop that opened last winter in midtown Sacra mento. Thompson, who grew up in Laguna Beach and cut her teeth designing interiors of yachts (“Working in small spaces forced me to get creative”), has an affinity for the coastal organic look that is big on woven materials, raw woods and carefree fabrics. “I gravitate toward timeless pieces, but nothing too formal or stuffy,” says Thompson, who was raised in a design family. (Her father was an inte rior designer; her grandfather owned an upholstery shop.)
The Witching Post sells residential furnishings and is stocked with a collection of fun accessories, including rustic wooden bowls, ornate gold and Lucite trays, cow horn vases and patterned throw pillows. There’s also a smartly curated selection of art from Sacramento artists like Haley Titus and Whitney Lofrano. The shop is open primarily by appointment and on most Saturday after noons. — catherine warmerdam
1729 L St., Sacramento; (916) 600-5234; witchingpostdesignco.com
Kat Alves
Two minds come together to create one stunning sculptural home. man of
The home’s exterior “has no ornamentation at all,” explains architect Jim Bob Kaufmann, “just texture built into the materials, so that it can act as a backdrop to the things around it.”
Photography
rtist Gerald Walburg has enjoyed a storied career crafting large-scale minimalist sculptures out of corten steel and other metals, so it’s surprising that art wasn’t his first calling. “Architecture would have been my first desire after high school,” Walburg laments, “but I wasn’t a genius in math, and in those days you needed to be very strong in math to be an architect.”
Still, that didn’t stop Walburg from dabbling in the field. “I’ve designed almost a dozen buildings, mostly for myself,” he says, including the home he shares with his wife, Deborah, in East Sacramento. It’s part of a small live-work compound that Walburg has erected over the course of a 25-year on-and-off collaboration with Sacramento architect Jim Bob Kaufmann.
As a young man, Walburg was employed as a draftsman for engineering and architectural firms, rendering detailed drawings using little more than pencil, paper and analog drafting tools. It’s the same way he works with Kaufmann today. “I don’t know CAD, so I lean over a drafting table with a T-square and triangles. I do the whole plan on paper, then I give it to Jim Bob and he puts it in a computer.”
“I
—Gerald Walburg
A BOVE : The kitchen and dining area are situated on the home’s ground floor. “Deborah is a big cook, and this is the heart of the home,” says Kaufmann. Simple finishes—flat-front cabinets, quartz countertops—don’t compete with the bold art and midcentury furniture.
FAR LEFT: The cantilevered upper floor, an element insisted upon by homeowner Gerald Walburg, is a feat of engineering. A sculptural post designed by Walburg “holds up one-fourth of the upstairs,” says Kaufmann. “It’s a really cool feature of the house.”
LEFT: It was Walburg’s idea to create a sunken garden area adjacent to the basement—an ingenious way of inviting light into the subterranean space.
BELOW: The living room, situated on the home’s top floor, is decorated with rich colors against a neutral backdrop.
“Jerry has an incredible eye for color and pattern,” says Kaufmann.
“As soon as you step inside the gates of the compound, you’re in another world. The gardens, which Jerry designed, are set up with different textures, colors and heights, with sculptures in the middle of it all so that the elements play off of one another.”
—Jim Bob Kaufmann
The experts at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery are here to help create a home that’s as extraordinary as you are. Any project, any style, any dream—bring your inspiration to Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery. Visit build.com/ferguson to schedule your personalized showroom experience today.
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The layout is just one part of a months-long conversation between two creatives in which they question and challenge one another’s ideas as they puzzle through design solutions. “Our personalities mesh well enough that I’m willing to look at what his ideas are and try to put them into a form that we can actually build,” says Kaufmann. “That’s no easy task; he does have some wild ideas sometimes. But it’s a fun challenge because it’s never like a normal building. He’s a very creative, very outside-the-box thinker. My job is to work with structural engineers and electrical engineers and the city to get the thing built.”
Walburg’s home is both a showcase for and an example of the monumental sculptures for which he’s known. “Jerry treats this as another piece of artwork,” explains Kaufmann. Clad in corten steel and capped with a painted steel shed roof, the structure is sculptural in form, with bold angles jutting skyward and a cantilevered section suspended artfully, almost magically, over the lush grounds, shading the patio below. “It’s an engineering marvel,” says Kaufmann of the cantilever.
Inside, the line between residence and gallery is intentionally blurred. Walburg’s collection of sculptures, paintings and iconic midcenturymodern furniture is showcased prominently, but the space doesn’t feel cavernous or antiseptic the way many art galleries do, thanks to Kaufmann’s adept approach to scale. “There’s a purposeful layering of lines throughout the house that help create a human scale,” he says. Color—in the paintings, the area rugs and the furnishings—is also “key to keeping it human,” adds Kaufmann.
Walburg says that he creates art to please himself, and this house is no different. The home is a monument to his ethos. As for Kaufmann, “I appreciate and enjoy the opportunity to work with someone who has an artistic vision. It elevates my work and it elevates his work. The whole beauty of this thing is the collaboration of two creative minds trying to achieve this really unusual and special building and environment.”
ABOVE: The sculpture in the basement is so large that it had to be installed and wrapped in plastic before construction was completed.
Fox Tale Design by Dena Mazza | © Megan Gery Photography
Audacy
CapRadio
KVIE PBS
SPONSORS:
California Family Fitness
Celebrity Cruises
Chriswell Home Improvements
Destination Aesthetics
Total Beauty Experience
J.J. Pfister Distilling
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Highland Park Whiskey
Wyoming Whiskey
Mike’s Camera
The Niello Company
UC Davis Health
The Bridge District
Willo Aveda Spa
BREWERIES:
Track 7 Brewing
Bike Dog Brewing
Loomis Basin Brewing
Drake’s Brewing
Dust Bowl Brewing
Belching Beaver Brewing
Anderson Valley Brewing
Calicraft Brewing
Farmer’s Brewing
Federation Brewing
Full Circle Brewing Movement Brewing Co.
WINERIES:
Acheson Wine Company
Berghold Vineyards
Bogle Family Vineyards
Borjón Winery
Casino Mine Ranch
Dianda Vineyards
Fellow Wines of Clarksburg
Great Bear Vineyards
Lucid Winery
Matchbook Wine Company
Miraflores
New Clairvaux Vineyard
Rendez-vous Winery
Rodney Strong Vineyards
Vino Noceto
Willamette Wineworks
Weibel
DISTILLERIES:
Tahoe Blue Vodka
JJ Pfister Distilling Company
Patio 29 Spirits Co.
South Fork Vodka
Wyoming Whiskey
Highland Park Whiskey CAS 1854
Legado Whiskey
The Firehouse Restaurant
The 7th Street Standard
Prelude Kitchen & Bar
Zinfandel Grille
Cousins Maine Lobster Chando’s Tacos
Nash & Proper West Coast Taco Bar
Leatherby’s Family Creamery
Sugar Coated Cupcakes
Sweet Tooth Ice Cream Cart Chefs’ Olive Mix
ReThink Ice Cream
Sacramento Cookie Factory Drake’s Brewing serving pizza
BENEFITING:
We want to thank everyone for their contribution, big or small, in making the 2022 Best of Sacramento Party a reality! Thank you to our local chapter of Make-A-Wish and its volunteers for being with us every step of the way. To our presenting sponsor, Tahoe Blue Vodka, your sponsorship is vital to the party’s success. Thank you to all the sponsors, wineries, breweries, distilleries, restaurants and musicians that dedicated their time to showcasing their brand and talents to the party’s guests. Thank you to the private security team, West Sacramento Police Department and AMR for keeping our event safe for those who attended.
A note to our 2,500 guests: A three-year gap between Best of Sacramento parties and an ongoing pandemic are not easy things to navigate. We thank you for giving us your support, and we promise to use guest, vendor and volunteer feedback to make the next party even better. Thank you, and we hope to see you at future events!
Light, bright and ready to party!
Traditional but on trend. That was what designers Diana Westerberg and Ricki Stevens were aim ing for when they collabo rated on a client’s residential project, a striking new build in Sacramento’s Gordon Heights neighborhood.
“We wanted to make the home feel as though it had been there for a long time but ensure that it had a fresh, crisp look to it,” explains Westerberg.
“Our client is someone who likes to stay current but is not trendy by any means,” adds Stevens. “She wanted something classic and time less that’s going to look good several years from now.”
ABOVE: Perhaps the hardest-working room in the house, this space does overtime as a home office, laundry room and catchall for household necessi ties. “It’s a truly multipurpose space,” says designer Diana Westerberg.
BELOW: Because the homeowner enjoys hosting large parties, the dining room needed to be large enough to accommodate many guests without feeling cavernous. The designers paired the owner’s original china cabinets with a sleek new sideboard to drive home the fresh yet homey feel. Painted beams and contemporary art give the space a modern touch.
The pair, who are principals of their respective design firms, brought their signature strengths to the project, collaborating with the architect and builder to ensure that the small but important details—like the brickwork pattern on the front façade or the concrete paver layout in the backyard, offset to mimic subway tile—signal that while this is a new house, it is rooted in tradition.
Throughout the home, the designers repurposed furnishings from the homeowner’s previous residence to lend the spaces a comfortable, timeworn feel. “We have older pieces all over the house, things that help give it a homeyness,” says Stevens.
The backyard, which includes a pool, fire-pit seating area and spacious pavilion with a kitchen and dining space, serves as a lush retreat. “The entire garden is white and green. We tried to keep the palette simple yet interesting,” explains Stevens. “Too many colors can be overwhelming. We wanted a relaxing, tranquil space.”
“What I love about the home is that every detail is very customized, but nothing is over the top,” says Westerberg. “It’s a home that looks like it’s been there forever.”
ABOVE LEFT: In the kitchen and great room, Douglas fir beams, hand-hewn tile and wide-plank oak floors combine to create a cozy atmosphere. “We let the materials speak for themselves,” Wester berg says.
ABOVE RIGHT: The principal bedroom is a statement in comfort. “It’s light and airy, thanks to the high ceilings,” says Westerberg. The deep window seat overlooking the yard is an invitation to relax.
BELOW: A round table in the space between the kitchen and great room acts as a welcoming point. “This is where the homeowner likes to decorate for the hol idays,” says Westerberg, “so there’s often a seasonal display here that serves as a focal point.”
THIS PAGE: “We wanted to achieve a Napa feel in the backyard,” says designer Ricki Stevens. “By selecting different materials for different spaces, we were able to make a large space feel intimate.”
To avoid the starkness of too much hardscaping, the concrete pavers are separated by strips of faux grass to soften the design’s hard edges.
20 SAC DESIGN Fall/Winter 2022 “We had all the front brick hand-troweled by one person to make it look just imperfect enough, like it had been in the neighborhood a long time,” says Westerberg.
DESIGN DW Designs and Ricki Stevens Design ARCHITECT Kevin O’Brien GENERAL CONTRACTOR A-Z Custom Construction Inc. RESOURCES
The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2022 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. CalRE License #01908304.
living
formal
rooms, grand family room, gourmet
square foot contemporary
located
and large office/bonus room. The expansive landscaped
backyard
Sacramento Magazine is pleased to honor some of the region’s finest REALTORS® in a special section dedicated to 2021 Masters Club Honorees.
On the next several pages you will meet the cream-of-the crop in the residential real estate business, REALTORS® who have achieved special club criteria in sales, closed transactions and/or membership participation. You will also learn more about a few special neighborhoods as some expert REALTORS® showcase their favorites. Discover how working together, these REALTORS® have helped our region’s real estate market thrive! We thank participating Masters Club members, their associations and Hall’s Window Center for their support in this section.
ENERGY. PASSION. COMMITMENT. Karen’s love of people, genuine concern, exuberant personality and great business sense have made her one of Sacramento County’s Top Residential Real Estate Brokers year after year. For over 30 years, her clients have recognized her market knowledge, tireless attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to results. Throughout the years, generations of families remain loyal and utilize Karen’s talents and expertise to help them buy and sell again and again. Karen enjoys living and selling homes in Rancho Murieta, and is the Top Producing agent in her community. She also has a proven track record throughout Sacramento, Placer, El Dorado and Amador Counties. It’s very important to Karen to give back; she continues to contribute to her many favorite charities: Red Cross, Kiwanis, Optimist Club, ASPCA, Jacob’s Angels, Playmakers and to firefighters and victims of fire throughout Northern California.
EXPERIENCE. KNOWLEDGE. RESULTS.
Karen was the Top Producing Residential Real Estate Agent in Sacramento County in 2020. (Source: MLS)
EXTRAORDINARY 8,450 +/- SF CONTEMPORARY HOME ON THE 14TH TEE & FAIRWAY OF NORTH RANCHO MURIETA CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE. Impressive one of a kind property with opulent master suite, three en-suites, separate in-law quarters plus library & private o ce/ bedroom. Dramatic home has curved staircase suspended over 14ft cascading waterfall built around massive rock outcroppings & Koi pond. Magni cent living room with cathedral ceiling & wall to wall windows lling the interior with natural light. Superior construction with extraordinary level of detailing including the kilndried hand carved imported Teak cabinetry and majestic light xtures. Center island gourmet kitchen has slab soapstone counters & walls leading to secluded backyard with lush landscaping & free-form pool with waterfalls nestled in the native rock outcroppings surrounded by expansive Trex decking ideal for grand entertaining.
FOR SALE $2,688,800 14913 Guadalupe Drive, Rancho Murieta, CA 95683
EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOM MEDITERRANEAN HOME WITH FREEFORM POOL. Stunning remodeled 2,958 sf with 3 Bedrooms, O ce, 2.5 Baths.
List Price: 1,298,800 SOLD: $1,345,000. March 28, 2022. 6300 Puerto Drive, Rancho Murieta, CA 95683
Proudly celebrating 47 years of successfully meeting the needs of Buyers and Sellers in Greater Sacramento! Integrity, hard work, knowledge of the marketplace and community are crucial to creating longevity as a REALTOR®! I strive to demonstrate my commitment to provide top quality service in each and every transaction. So thankful for my customers and fellow REALTORS®! Please contact me to put my dedication and experience to work for you!
Lyon
616-7858 gknopke@GoLyon.com
Pat Seide has built her business with great care and attention to her clients. Rather than count dollars sold or number of transactions, Pat prefers to measure her success in satisfied buyers and sellers. Her long history of referrals and repeat customers confirms that success comes with putting her clients first. With years of experience and knowledge, Pat is able to provide the highest level of services possible. Pat specializes in El Dorado Hills, Folsom, Granite Bay and the Sacramento Region.
PCAR,
712-1617
OVER 40 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS, MASTERS CLUB
We have been blessed with clients who continue to call upon us to help with their real estate needs. Again in 2021, farms and land, lots, estate homes and small commercial properties comprised a major part of our business. We look forward again this year to continue providing personal and professional real estate services to our loyal and new clients.
Albiani Real Estate Group DRE# 00584962 | SAR (916) 425-0330 gil@albianireg.com
DRE# 01004189 | SAR Coldwell Banker (916) 212-1881 angela.heinzer@cbnorcal.com www.angelaheinzer.com
Lyon Real Estate DRE# 00580837 | SAR (916) 425-3637 bfrago@golyon.com www.barbarafrago.com
I have been in real estate in the Sacramento area for more than 48 years and with Lyon RE over 38 years, moving here from Georgia in 1970. I have worked in New Home sales for Robert Powell in Campus Commons, East Ranch, Wyndgate and Maddox Ranch. Prior to real estate I was in banking and in the 60’s a Flight Attendant for Eastern Airlines, which nurtured my love for people and eagerness to assist them. I’m lucky to be doing what I love and strive to be the BEST for my clients. Let us all keep an attitude of gratitude.
Lyon Real Estate, Vice President DRE# 00475888 | SAR (916) 849-7314 vdaley@golyon.com
Coldwell Banker DRE #00784986 | SAR (916) 601-8834 sue@sueolson.net 42 years experience.
RE/MAX Gold DRE# 00989626 | “Your REALTOR® for Life!” (916) 539-9555 Brian@TeamKassis.com www.briankassis.com
Specializing in Sacramento, El Dorado, Placer and Yolo Counties - Dee has built her business with great care and attention to detail. Aimed at achieving her clients’ complete satisfaction, she takes a “Clients First” approach when guiding them through the Real Estate world. For 36 years Dee has been a consistent award winner and top producing agent.
Coldwell Banker (916) 341-7852 | (916) 704-0718 DRE# 00498850 | SAR dee.schwindt@cbnorcal.com www.CallDeeFirst.com
• Selling the Greater Sacramento Area since 1969 and a Broker Since 1972.
• Wrote a #1 Best Selling Book on Amazon – Signed Sealed and Sold!
If you’re thinking of buying or selling, give me a call and let me put my 52 years of experience to work for you. Remember, experience is not expensive, it is priceless!!!
Coldwell Banker
SAR | Presidential DRE #00356708 | NMLS # 1815492 (916) 284-7133 viki@vikibenbow.com
SacramentoHomeHunter.com
Broker Associate - Proven track record of success for over 40 years. Expert knowledge of the local market and its rich and colorful past. Expert Witness Experience. Certified Residential Specialist, Senior Real Estate Specialist, Trust & Probate Specialist. Past President of the SAR Masters Club. Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate from University of the Pacific. Former Assistant Dean - UOP McGeorge School of Law.
DRE# 00842218 | SAR Berkshire Hathaway Drysdale Properties (916) 764-7500 nick.laplaca@BHHSDrysdale.com
BHHSDrysdale.com
This has truly been one of my best years EVER! Being nominated as Sac Mag Best Realtor, The Top 1.5% Realtors in the nation, Top 1% at Lyon Real Estate, Board Member for Fairytale Town and helping raising funds for the new story center and park expansion. Winner as The woman of the year for Leukemia Lymphoma Woman of the Year 2022! I am so thankful for all of the love and support from the community, my family, friends, clients and colleagues. Thank you for helping me to be the Best that I can be in my field, giving and service to all.
DRE# 01375328 (916) 698-9970 tcurry.golyon.com
DRE# 01483530 | SAR Lyon Real Estate (916) 342-3573 tschultz@golyon.com
Fair Oaks Area Specialist www.teamupwithtoddy.com
Banker
DRE# 01267649 | SAR (916) 224 -1515 traci.petersen@cbnorcal.com
Pat Seide has dedicated many years to building relationships with sellers, buyers, builders and developers in the Serrano community located in El Dorado Hills. Passionate about growing this region, she is a leader in the local luxury real estate market. Pat and her husband have lived in Serrano for 22 years, where they enjoy seeing neighbors take advantage of the many amenities. The community offers more than 1,000 acres of open space and 17 miles of walking trails. A private, award winning, country club with restaurants, tennis, swimming, fitness center and a par-72 golf course. These are just highlights of the vast offerings Serrano residents can take advantage of.
DRE# 00892540 | ECAR, PCAR, SAR (916) 712-1617
Patricia.seide@cbnorcal.com www.patseide.com
As owners of Galster Real Estate Group, Sacramento’s premier real estate company, Steve and Sue have built their sterling reputation on the personal bonds they make with their agents, o ice support sta , friends & neighbors. They o er unmatched personalized support. Steve’s enthusiastic style & business savvy combined with Sue’s caring follow-through & attention to detail, it’s easy to see how they’ve made such a lasting impact for clients in the market.
“Although the world is full of su ering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.”
Helen Keller
Tad Thompson believes membership in the Masters Club is not so much a recognition as a responsibility. It means maintaining higher standards, o ering superior service, and adhering to a strict code of professional behavior. Long after the transaction is over, the character of the REALTOR endures.
DRE# 01034942
Granite Bay REALTORS® (916) 765-2200
TadT@Windermere.com
DRE# 01882787
SAR Coldwell Banker Realty (916) 717-7217 ste an@ste anbrown.com www.Ste anBrown.com
Witham Real Estate DRE# 01456452 | SAR (916) 718-1751 Victoria@WithamRealEstate.com
Knowledgeable. Professional.
With extensive knowledge of the Greater Sacramento Area real estate market and deep roots in the community, I have a solid reputation for representing Buyers, Sellers, and Seniors with a simple goal in mind—create a client relationship and successful transaction based on skill, results, integrity and trust.
Coldwell Banker Realty DRE #01864883 (916) 599-3018
www.tomandnancyharvey.com
Paloma Begin has been representing Sellers & Buyers of interesting properties in Sacramento’s fine old neighborhoods since 1999. Luxury specialist, top Sacramento agent, lover of plants, dirt, art, water, houses, & four-legged creatures.
DRE #01191824 | SAR, South
Bay Area Association of REALTORS®,
Realty (916) 698-4646 shaunalston@landmarkeagle.com
www.EagleRealty.org
(916) 206-9902 RussTeagueRealtor@gmail.com
DRE# 01394970 (916) 849-4810 mark@markdrealty.com www.markdrealty.com
DRE# 01254423 (916) 628-8561 Palomabegin@gmail.com PalomaBegin.com
Tanya is a top producing REALTOR® of 15 years with Lyon Real Estate. She has a positive mindset and is committed to providing high-touch, superior service. Tanya has represented hundreds of buyers and sellers and has a passion for helping others that sets her apart. She is active in multiple local charities.
Learn how Tanya can help you realize your real estate dreams at TCurry@GoLyon.com
Nancy has been a REALTOR® for over 40 years. As a native Californian and a Sacramento resident since 1964, Nancy served as President of the Sacramento Association of REALTORS® in 2004 and was SAR REALTOR® of the Year in 2002. She is a certified Military Specialist, a Delta Gamma Alumnae and a volunteer with The Assistance League. As a top producer for many years, both of her children followed in her footsteps and are agents today.
DRE #00443547 (916) 838-1763 NArndorfer@golyon.com
I love people and my passion is to help others meet their goals. A career in Real Estate has provided 46+ years of serving our community and of building my business on referrals.
I am a full-service Realtor with extensive experience with single family homes, new construction, land development and commercial real estate. I worked 12 years at the State of California in surplus property sales, land acquisition, and o ice leasing. For your best real estate experience call me!
LTC Corporation- Real Estate Services
REALTOR, Emeritus, Broker, CCIM
DRE# 00571033 CELL (916)765-3292 LTCCorp@L-T-C.com
Providing exceptional Real Estate Services to buyers and sellers for more than 20 years.
Mike Ownbey Realtor® DRE 01146313 mjownbey@gmail.com 916.616.1607
DRE# 00925201 | SAR | Past President Garcia Realty (916) 206-3802 Franco@GarciaRealEstate.com www.GarciaRealEstate.com
DRE# 01208861 | SAR Outstanding Life Member Coldwell Banker Realty Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE) (916) 812-8180 | jdetrick@cbnorcal.com JanDetrickRealEstate.com
With gratitude always to my clients for allowing me the opportunity to serve them in the capacity of being their real estate professional. I could not have done this without the continued support of my clients, friends and family who support me everyday. Thank you. I am truly grateful.
(916) 412-2573
Knowledge is power! In today’s challenging real estate market, knowledge and experience are more critical than ever. So is getting the job done with energy, enthusiasm, and attention to detail. At every critical turn in your real estate journey I am there to explain your options and answer your questions. Take the first step by calling me today!
Miller Real Estate DRE# 01401950 | SAR (916) 717-4828
kandace@kandacemulvaney.com
www.mulvaneydube.com
DRE# 01019816 | SAR Riverpoint Realty (916) 225-0707 julie@julieburks.com www.julieburks.com
Broker, SRES, REALTOR®, StoneBrook Realty Group DRE# 01040512 | SAR (916) 601-4225 kelly@stonebrookrealtygroup.com StoneBrookRealtyGroup.com
Just south of downtown Sacramento is the lovely neighborhood of Land Park named after it’s centerpiece William Land Park which is a hub for families far and wide. With it’s own golf course, a giant pond complete with fishing, the Sacramento Zoo, and the amusement parks of Fairytale Town and Funderland, there’s plenty to do. From jogging the shade-lined park, fishing in the giant pond, picking up a game of baseball, volleyball, or croquet, there’s a place for you? Or just grill and chill in the well-maintained spacious park. Radiating from the central hub are canopied streets of old-world homes as charming as they are beautiful. Great schools, Sacramento City College, Taylor’s Market, the homemade ice cream parlors of Vic’s and Gunther’s and Broadway’s abundance of fine restaurants make Land Park and it’s offshoots of South Land Park and Curtis Park among Sacramento’s finest neighborhoods to call home.
DRE# 01268030 (916) 806-4061 • JAnderson@golyon.com 2620 21st St., Suite A, Sacramento CA 95818 www.JimAndersonsellshomes.com
DRE# 01179964 | SAR Outstanding Life Member Coldwell Banker Realty (916) 296-6166 dpennisi@cbnorcal.com pennisi.com
DRE# 02029743
(916) 217-7409 diane@dianejohnson.org
DRE# 01227077 | SAR
Lyon Real Estate (916) 230-3778 AThielen@GoLyon.com www.AThielen.GoLyon.com
DRE# 01132561 | SAR
Lyon Real Estate (916) 224-5843 agitt@golyon.com www.angelagitt.com
Lyon Real Estate DRE# 01726096 | SAR (916) 996-8877 LRothfels@GoLyon.com LRothfels.GoLyon.com
Coldwell Banker Realty SAR | ABR, CRS, GRI DRE #01308218 | (916) 205-8973 tecca.wysk@CAmoves.com teccasellssacramento.com
Hi, thank you for taking the time to read about me. I typically don’t advertise my sales or business. My priority is to focus on my client’s needs before advertising. If you’d like, you can talk with some of my past clients; their advertisements about me have helped me become a Masters Club recipient. Please reach out to me if you’d like to know more about my business. Thanks to them, and thank you too for your time.
Realty ONE Group Cal DRE #02048199 (916) 800-0078 | Hello@FeaturedRE.info 2277 Fair Oaks Boulevard #195 Sacramento, CA www.rogcomplete.com/agents/ danny-rayos
Craig is extremely knowledgeable in negotiating tactics, market pricing strategies and working with NDAs. His areas of specialty are Sacramento, El Dorado and San Joaquin Counties. He has been a multiple award-winning agent every year since he started in real estate over 18 years ago. He has been involved in many youth and local organizations, including Little League, the Boys and Girls club, Travel Baseball & Elk Grove Soccer. In his spare time, Craig enjoys golfing, fly fishing, real estate investing and is an avid American whiskey collector.
LIFE DRE# 01494440 cbuntin1@gmail.com TeamBuntin.com
Brandon has been involved in various facets of real estate for over 20 years, including property management and home mortgage loans. As a member of the Sacramento Association of REALTORS® Masters Club, Brandon has sold homes in Sacramento, Colusa, El Dorado, Placer, Sutter and Yolo counties. Born and raised in Sacramento, he has a lifetime of knowledge about the area and vows to work day or night to get you the best deal. Whether you’re looking for your first home or are experienced in buying real estate, his passion for real estate and helping his clients makes him a great candidate to get you the house you’re looking for.
LIFE REALTOR® BRE #02033008 (916) 812-0209 lower.brandon@gmail.com
Representing buyers and sellers throughout the Sacramento region and Northern California
RE/MAX
01467711
Achiever
EDCAR
01973665
(916) 537-2400 joel.perez@norcalgold.com
(916) 997-7393
(916) 293-1734 Jane@JaneGrayRealEstate.com
family existing homes, condos, land,
Lyon Real Estate | Hablo Español DRE #01393964
PCAR (916) 765-9730 seeclaudia4homes.com
Broker
DRE# 01749720 | SAR Galster Real Estate Group (916) 743-6611 cynthia@realestatesinger.com www.realestatesinger.com
Mega real estate service with a Blissful experience, is our company mantra.
MegaBliss Real Estate is about connection, we are a guide for our clients and a resource. Buying and selling real estate is a big commitment, working with a team that you vibe with, who communicates, keeps it transparent and positive, and has your back is key to a MegaBlissful experience. Thank you for trusting our team to be your guide through your next chapter.
MegaBliss Real Estate DRE #01397300 | (916) 949-6929 melissa@megablissre.com www.megablissre.com
As Owners of The Residence Real Estate Group, Brandon and Mandy Shepard have built their reputation through their incredible agent and client relationships. With local roots and a proven track record, they have a fiercely loyal dedication to every single transaction. Both Brandon and Mandy are Certified Relocation Specialists and Masters Club Members. As a team, Mandy and Brandon are the REALTORS® you want to be sure to chat with to help answer the burning question, “Where will you reside?”
Mandy Shepard
Broker/Owner
The Residence Real Estate Group DRE #01894353 | SAR | Continuing Life (916) 213-3013 mandyshepard@sbcglobal.net
www.theresidencere.com
Brandon Shepard Owner
The Residence Real Estate Group DRE #01701893 | SAR | Outstanding Life 916-479-1936 bshepard2@sbcglobal.net
Kim Knotts, MBA, lives inspired by people, real estate, and dedication. She believes buying a home should reflect who you are, who you want to be, and inspire you to live the luxury lifestyle you deserve. A California native with 45 years in the Sierra Foothills have made Kim an expert of the Greater Sacramento Region. From the Sierra Foothills to Lake Tahoe are where Kim works, lives and plays. With deep market insight, industry connection, authentic client partnerships, and expertise in all things finance, Kim Knotts provides high-touch and high-quality real estate services for home buyers and sellers.
ENGLE &VOLKERS
KIM.KNOTTS@EVREALESTATE.COM (916) 719-3235 DRE# 01702783 | PCAR kimknotts.evrealestate.com
Real
716-8713 mbrown@golyon.com
Senior Executive Associate
Lyon Real Estate DRE# 01369531 | SAR (916) 719-6381 LAUBLE@golyon.com www.LisaAuble.com
I’ve had the pleasure of serving wonderful clients throughout California in my real estate career. Every client is important to me, and I strive to provide excellent service and attention to every client. During a lifechanging transaction, the little details matter the most. I aim to be the source of information and professional advice for customers unsure of what steps are necessary. Let me help you achieve your goals.
I am fluent in French and Portuguese.
REALTOR® | DRE #02009731 | SAR
Coldwell Banker Realty (916) 350-0602 nancy.jenson@cbnorcal. com
I just want to take a moment to thank all my clients and let them know how much I appreciate them trusting me with their real estate needs. It’s truly been a pleasure working with you. I look forward to working with you again in the future. My goal is always to create a stress-free experience by providing excellent service.
CalBRE #01098280 916.505.1012 | 415.246.3858 Patti.Delgado@cbnorcal.com www.PattiDelgadoRealEstate.com
Noelle McCrea is a Sacramento native with over 20 years of experience in the real estate industry. Her experience in transaction negotiation, combined with her extensive knowledge of Sacramento’s greater regional history helps inform her clients to make the best decisions when selling or buying their home or investment property.
REALTOR® | Big Block Realty North DRE# 02040652 | #1527343 916-877-6011 noelle@noellemccrea.com NoelleMcCrea.com
Empanadas in two flavors—beef picadillo and vegan soyrizo/pota to—are on the menu at BODEGA KITCHEN & COCKTAIL S , a pan-Caribbean restaurant that recently opened in Sacramento’s Pocket neighborhood. The cozy spot offers food inspired by cuisine from places like Haiti, Cuba, Ja maica and Puerto Rico, along with tropical drinks such as daiquiris, mojitos and margaritas. 6401 Riverside Blvd.; (916) 898-2231; bodegasac.com
Vegetable soup; pineapple juice ; sautéed beets, zucchini and carrots; kale with mushroom sauce; beans; salad with lemon agave dressing and brown rice
Partners Luo Rong Sang Zhu (Sam) and Bu Chu
Kale being prepared
BY MARYBETH BIZJAK
What does peace have to do with eating? According to Luo Rong Sang Zhu, it’s simple: Eat healthy and you will be happy. This, he says, is peace.
Luo Rong Sang Zhu (in this country he goes by the name Sam) is a former Buddhist monk from Tibet. In 2013, he came to the United States to visit an uncle and ended up staying and working at the uncle’s vegan restaurant in the Bay Area. Last spring, Sam opened his own eatery, Himalaya Vegan Or ganic Restaurant, in an unassuming North Natomas strip mall.
True to its name, the restaurant serves only vegan and organic fare, right down to the organic canned kombucha from Lev’s Original. It’s a low-frills, fast-casual spot where you place your order at the counter. The menu has an unusual format: Instead of ordering individual dishes, you choose the size of the meal you want, either “full” or “moderate.” What you get is a combination plate with six separate vegetarian dishes, including a green salad, a mound of long-grain brown rice, a heaping spoonful of beans, some steamed vegetables, sautéed greens, plus a cup of soup. Everything is fresh, simply prepared and clean tasting.
Sam describes his food as “peaceful.” In addition to vegan and organic, every thing is gluten free. A small amount of organic olive oil is used for sautéing. Din ers who want their food more boldly seasoned can add their own at the table with soy sauce, olive oil, sesame seeds, salt and cayenne pepper
The menu changes twice a day. Sam and Bu Chu— his business partner, best friend and brother-inlaw—start work at 8 in the morning, chopping the vegetables for that day’s lunch. They don’t even start to think about the dinner menu until sometime that afternoon. “It’s not fresh otherwise,” Sam says.
THE MENU HAS AN UNUSUAL FORMAT: INSTEAD OF ORDERING INDIVIDUAL DISHES, YOU CHOOSE THE SIZE OF THE MEAL YOU WANT, EITHER “ FULL” OR “ MODERATE .” WHAT YOU GET IS A COMBINATION PLATE WITH SIX SEPARATE VEGETARIAN DISHES.
Each plate features a colorful panoply of vege tables. You might get French lentil soup with miso and vegetables; garbanzo beans with onion and ginger; steamed red and green cabbage with carrots, zucchini and yellow squash; collard greens and kale with shiitake mushroom sauce; and an arugula salad with red beet lemon agave dressing. It’s no trouble eating the rain bow here. There’s also a handful of vegan pies—chocolate, Key lime, coconut, mango and strawberry—for dessert.
At Himalaya, some customers come in several times a week for Sam’s fresh, healthful food. One regular suffering from high blood pressure started dining frequently at the restaurant. He told Sam he no longer needs to take blood pres sure medication. “I wish people would eat more healthy food,” Sam says.
Sam was only 12 years old when he left Tibet and ended up in India, where he lived with his brother, a Buddhist monk. There, Sam studied Buddhism and, like his brother, also became a monk. At the temple, his job was to cook for the other monks. He fell in love with Buddhist food and culture, which emphasizes a simple, plant-based life. Eventually, he moved to Belgium, where he had relatives, and worked as a cook at a five-star hotel.
Now 40, Sam has a wife and two young children. He works to feed his family. He doesn’t dream of getting rich. “My meal is small, but it’s from my heart,” he says, touching his chest. His labors as a chef reflect his Buddhist philosophy of life. As he explains it: “Do your best. Be healthy. Live a simple life. Be happy. These are the important things.” That, Sam says, is peace.
4160 Northgate Blvd.; (916) 622-5728 himalayavegan.com
Strawberry, mango, coconut, chocolate and Key lime pie Sam prepares the day’s meal“I’m confident in saying that I have the best chicken in Northern California,” proclaims chef Matt Wambsgans. He may be right. At The Jazzy Bird, the Peruvian-style rotisserie joint that he and his wife, Reagan, opened last spring, Wambsgans turns out birds so succulent, so flavorful, that after trying one, you may kick yourself for settling for the bland supermarket deli version before now.
It all starts with Rocky-brand free-range chickens and a Thomas Keller brine recipe that Wambsgans tweaked until he got it exactly to his liking. “The chickens sit for up to two days in the brine,” he explains, then air-dry in the fridge for 24 hours “so they get a nice, sticky skin that can absorb the marinade.” The marinade’s surprise ingredient: huacatay, a pungent black mint native to Peru.
The birds are slow-roasted to perfection— dark, blistered skin; moist, boldly seasoned meat—in an $18,000 oven imported from Peru. “The last 10 minutes, I add charcoal to it. There’s no knob or anything, so I can’t just adjust the gas. It’s an art, and I’ve got it down,” says Wambsgans, who fell in love with pollo a la brasa at Peruvian restaurants around Washington, D.C., where he was raised. “I’m trying to replicate the taste I grew up eating.”
In the Peruvian tradition, the chicken is served with two house-made sauces: a piquant garlic aioli made with aji amarillo peppers, and a sharp salsa verde brightened by lime juice, jalapeño and cilantro. Both sauces are excellent accompaniments to the thick, golden fries that come as a side dish. (Rice is the other option.)
The Jazzy Bird, which occupies the kitchen inside Track 7 Brewing Company’s East Sacramento taproom, has an abbreviated, meatcentric menu for now—don’t come expecting a salad. But Wambsgans has ambitious plans for the venture once he finds his rhythm (and more employees). “I want to focus on what I do well, and I always want to send out quality food, so I am taking my time.” 5090 Folsom Blvd.; the jazzybird.com—CATHERINE WARMERDAM
Since its doors fi rst opened in Oak Park in 2019 (a second spot has since debuted in Folsom), Faria Bakery has been feeding the city’s food cognoscenti inventive pastries (matcha strawberry rye shortcake cream pu s, anyone?) and binge-worthy breads that have destroyed many a keto diet. But lately it’s Faria’s Wednesday night suppers that have diners buzzing.
Once a week, head chef Taylor Jung and crew turn Faria’s compact Sacramento location into a dinner destination with a concise menu of hyperlocal, produce-forward dishes that are as unconventional as their baked goods. Pizza is a mainstay, owing to the period early in the pandemic when Faria would sell pillowy rounds of dough to home cooks. The toppings change with the season: One month it might be sweet corn and cherry tomatoes; another it’s sunchokes and broccolini. Jung fi lls out the menu with a medley of thoughtfully composed salads and small plates. Past o erings include squash beignets with pickled mulberries; blanched asparagus with sa ron yogurt, radish and mint; and Chioggia beets and purple daikon with burrata and pistachio gremolata.
ONCE A WEEK, FARIA BAKERY TURNS INTO A DINNER DESTINATION SERVING HYPERLOCAL, PRODUCE FORWARD DISHES THAT ARE AS UNCONVENTIONAL AS THE BAKED GOODS.
“It’s very much a team e ort,” says Jung of conceptualizing the menu, which can be eaten on-site or as takeout. “I’ll sit down with our pastry chef, Natalie Quach, and we’ll talk about what we’re interested in making, what looks good at the farmers market, how to source it all.”
For Jung, a fourth-generation Chinese-American who was raised in San Francisco and, at age 17, cut his teeth helping his uncle run a school lunch program in the mornings while attending the California Culinary Academy in the afternoons, the dishes are always laced with a bit of nostalgia: for his early food memories, for a particular ingredient, for a family member. “The starting point for coming up with a dish is often, think of something your grandmother fed you, think of something you ate as a kid. How do you capture how you felt about that experience, then translate it for the person you’re cooking for?” he explains.
In spite of diners’ enthusiasm for Faria’s “supper club,” as they call it, there’s no plan to expand it beyond a weekly event. “It’s fun to play restaurant for a night,” says Jung, “but it takes a tremendous toll to fl ip the bakery to serve these dinners and then fl ip it back.” 3417 Broadway; (916) 204-8726; faria bakery.com—CATHERINE WARMERDAM
Top: Christopher Beattie Squash beignets, pickled mulberries, puffed einkorn and romesco from Faria Bakery
As a reader service, Sacramento Magazine offers the following list of noteworthy restaurants in the Sacramento region. This is not intended to be a complete directory, and not all restaurants profiled appear every month. Before heading to a restaurant, call or check its website to make sure it’s open.
BENNETT’S AMERICAN COOKING This neighborhood hangout has a familiar, “Cheers”-like ambience that makes diners feel right at home. The food is like homemade, only better: things like braised short rib with mashed potatoes, lasagna Bolognese and chick en enchiladas. There’s seemingly something for every taste and diet, from avocado toast, available all day long, to prime rib (weekends only). The lengthy menu features notations for dishes that are vegetarian, heart healthy, nut-free or “gluten-free friendly.” 2232 Fair Oaks Blvd.; (916) 515-9680; bennettsamerican cooking.com. L-D-Br. American. $$$
CAFE VINOTECA Located in Arden Town Center, Cafe Vinoteca serves some of the loveliest Italian-inspired cuisine in the city. 3535 Fair Oaks Blvd.; (916) 4871331; cafevinoteca.com. L–D. Italian. $$$
DUBPLATE KITCHEN & JAMAICAN CUISINE One of the few places in Sacramento where you can get Caribbean food, this restaurant serves Jamaican specialties such as curry goat and jerk chicken. 3419 El Camino Ave.; (916) 339-6978; dubplatekitchen cuisine.com. L–D. Jamaican. $$
THE KITCHEN Part supper club, part theatrical production, part cocktail party: This is like no other restaurant in Sacramento, and it’s Michelin starred. You need to make reservations months in advance for the multi-course dinner. The food is complex and mind-blowingly creative. 2225 Hurley Way; (916) 568-7171; thekitchenrestaurant.com. D. American. $$$$
LEATHERBY’S FAMILY CREAMERY Go for the ice cream, all made on the premises and used in shakes, malts and towering sundaes. 2333 Arden Way; (916) 920-8382; leatherbys.net. L–D. Sandwiches/ice cream. $
ANDY NGUYEN VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT This bastion of Buddhist-inspired vegetarian cuisine serves food that is fresh and flavorful. 2007 Broad way; (916) 736-1157; andynguyenvegetarian.com. L–D. Vegetarian/Asian. $
REAL PIE COMPANY At this homey pie shop, you’ll find the pies of your dreams, made with all-butter crusts and seasonal fruit sourced from local farms. In addition to dessert pies such as jumbleberry and butterscotch banana cream, you can order savory pot pies, shepherd’s pies and dishes like mac and cheese, all available to eat in or take out. 2425 24th St.; (916) 838-4007; realpiecompany.com. L–D. American. $
SELLAND’S MARKET-CAFE Choose from an array of appetizers and hot items along with crowd-pleas ing side dishes and pizza. This high-quality takeout food can be a real lifesaver on nights when you’re too busy to cook. 915 Broadway; (916) 732-3390; sellands.com. L–D–Br. Gourmet takeout. $$
TOWER CAFE This place is a hot spot on weekend mornings. Regulars swear by the New Mexico blue berry cornmeal pancakes and the thick-cut, custardy French toast. Breakfast is all-American, but lunch and dinner have a global flavor. 1518 Broadway; (916) 441-0222; towercafe.com. B–L–D. World fusion. $$
ROAD TRIP BAR & GRILL This family-friendly joint serves up classic roadhouse fare, from salads and burgers to chops. 24989 State Highway 16; (530) 796-3777; roadtripbg.com. B–L–D. American. $–$$
LEATHERBY’S FAMILY CREAMERY For description, see listing under “Arden Arcade.” 7910 Antelope Road; (916) 729-4021; leatherbys.net. L–D. Sand w iches/ice cream. $
SAM’S CLASSIC BURGERS At this drive-up burger
shack, the shakes are great and the burgers wonder fully straightforward. 7442 Auburn Blvd.; (916) 723-7512. L–D. Burgers. $
PANGAEA BIER CAFE While it’s known as a beer cafe and bottle shop, this casual spot also serves up tasty bar food, including a burger that has taken home top honors more than once at Sacramento Burger Battle. 2743 Franklin Blvd.; (916) 454-4942; pan gaeabiercafe.com. L–D. American. $$
BURGERS AND BREW The casual restaurant uses high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and serves an interesting selection of beer. 1409 R St.; (916) 442-0900; burgersnbrew.com. L–D. Burgers. $
CREPEVILLE This bustling creperie serves many variations on the crepe theme, from entrée to des Ryan
Angel Meza OneSpeed’s Italian sausage pizza
sert. 330 Third St.; (530) 750-2400; crepeville.com. B–L–D. Crepes. $
OSTERIA FASULO This restaurant has a beautiful outdoor courtyard bordered by trellised grapevines and punctuated by leafy trees strung with tiny lights. The menu is proudly Italian, with wonderful pastas and robust meat dishes. 2657 Portage Bay East; (530) 758-1324; osteriafasulo.com. L–D. Italian. $$$–$$$$
SEASONS This upscale restaurant showcases sea sonal products; the menu changes every three months. Pizzas are great; so are the bountiful salads. But you’ll find the kitchen’s real talent in its creative appetizers and entrées. 102 F St.; (530) 750-1801; seasonsdavis.com. L–D. New American. $$–$$$
YAKITORI YUCHAN This busy little restaurant fo cuses on skewered grilled meats, seafood and veg etables. Most items are meant to be shared; bring an adventurous palate and a group of food-loving friends. 109 E St.; (530) 753-3196; yakitoriyuchan. com. D. Japanese. $–$$
DIXON
CATTLEMENS This classic Western steakhouse serves up big slabs of prime rib, porterhouse, T-bone and cowboy steaks, plus all the trimmings: shrimp cocktail, loaded potato skins, deep-fried onions and more. 250 Dorset Court; (707) 678-5518; cattlemens. com. D. Steakhouse. $$$
BAWK! CHICKEN & BAR Along with crispy chicken coated with a red spice mix that kicks it up a notch, you can order salads, oysters on the half shell and collard greens. 1409 R St.; (916) 465-8700; bawk friedchicken.com. L–D–Br. Southern. $$
BRASSERIE DU MONDE This beautifully designed restaurant is based on a traditional French bras serie. The menu hits the high points of the brasserie canon, everything from onion soup to steak frites. 1201 K St.; (916) 329-8033; brasseriedumonde.com. L–D. French. $$–$$$
BURGERS AND BREW For description, see listing under “Davis.” 1409 R St.; (916) 442-0900; burgers nbrew.com. L–D. Burgers. $
CAFE BERNARDO The menu offers straightforward fare guaranteed to please just about everyone. Breakfast includes huevos rancheros and eggs Ber nardo, drizzled with hollandaise sauce. Lunch and dinner feature chewy-crusted pizzas, burgers, sand wiches and entrées such as pan-seared chicken breast with mashed potatoes. 1431 R St.; (916) 9309191; cafebernardo.com. B–L–D. New American. $
CAFETERIA 15L Go to Cafeteria 15L for modern, ap proachably priced comfort food in a casual yet stylish environment. The menu emphasizes fun fare, such as mac ’n’ cheese, truffle tater tots, and fried chicken and waffle with pecan butter. 1116 15th St.; (916) 492-1960; cafeteria15l.com. L–D. Californian. $$
CAMDEN SPIT & LARDER Highly regarded chef Oli ver Ridgeway opened this swank brasserie in a mod ern, glass-walled building near the Capitol. It appeals to lobbyists, lawyers and legislators with its ginforward cocktails (martini, anyone?) and a menu that’s an interesting mash-up of British chop-house classics, English schoolboy favorites and elevated pub fare. 555 Capitol Mall; (916) 619-8897; camden spitandlarder.com. L–D. Steakhouse. $$$–$$$$
ECHO & RIG Located in the lobby of The Sawyer hotel, this outpost of a Vegas steakhouse is sleek and un
stuffy. Prices are considerably gentler than at most other steakhouses, but the quality of the meat is high. In addition to standard cuts like filet, NY steak and rib-eye, you’ll find butcher cuts such as hanger, ba vette, skirt and tri-tip. 500 J St.; (877) 678-6255; echoandrig.com. B–L–D–Br. Steakhouse. $$$
ELLA This stunning restaurant is an elegant oasis compared to the gritty hustle and bustle outside. From the open kitchen, the staff turns out innovative dishes and old favorites. The emphasis is on sea sonal and local. 1131 K St.; (916) 443-3772; elladin ingroomandbar.com. L–D. New American. $$$$
FOX & GOOSE PUBLIC HOUSE This tavern plates up some of the best breakfasts in town, along with pub staples like beer-battered fish and chips, a Cornish pasty or Welsh rarebit. 1001 R St.; (916) 443-8825; foxandgoose.com. B–L–D. English pub. $
FRANK FAT’S Downtown Sacramento’s oldest res taurant, Fat’s is a favorite of the Capitol crowd. The restaurant is well known for its steaks and its bran dy-fried chicken. This is Chinese cuisine at its most sophisticated. 806 L St.; (916) 442-7092; frankfats. com. L–D. Chinese. $$$
KODAIKO RAMEN & BAR Partly owned by Kru’s Billy Ngo, this ramen shop takes the Japanese noodle soup to a whole new level. Ingredients are organic, and almost everything is made in-house. For a fun expe rience, sit at the six-person ramen counter and chat w ith the chefs. 718 K St.; (916) 426-8863; kodaiko ramen.com. L–D–Br. Japanese/ramen. $$–$$$
MAGPIE CAFE This restaurant has an unassuming vibe, and its hallmark is clean, simple fare that tastes like the best version of itself. 1601 16th St.; (916) 4527594; magpiecafe.com. B–L–D. Californian. $$
MAS TACO BAR Tasty little tacos are the headliners at this casual eatery. They come with all sorts of delicious fillings: braised short rib, Korean fried chicken, banh mi shrimp and, for veg heads, roasted cauliflower and butternut squash. You can also get Latin-flavored rice bowls, salads and starters. 1800 15th St.; mastacobar.com. L–D–Br Mexican. $$
THE MELTING POT Fondue goes upscale here. Try the Wisconsin Trio cheese fondue, prepared at your table with fontina, Butterkase and Gorgonzola cheese. 814 15th St.; (916) 443-2347; meltingpot.com/sacramen to-ca. D. Fondue/American. $$–$$$$
MIKUNI JAPANESE RESTAURANT AND SUSHI BAR This hip sushi bar serves its sushi with a side of sass. There are three sushi bars and a dense menu of ap petizers, rice bowls, bento boxes and sushi rolls. 1530 J St.; (916) 447-2112; mikunisushi.com. L–D. Japanese/sushi. $$
MORTON’S THE STEAKHOUSE From cozy, candlelit booths and stunning, glass-enclosed wine room to the crisply outfitted chefs, Morton’s oozes Special Occasion. Red meat is the star here. 621 Capitol Mall; (916) 442-5091; mortons.com/sacramento. D. Steakhouse. $$$$
NASH & PROPER The owners first rocked Sacra mento’s food scene with a food truck featuring Nashville-style hot chicken sandwiches. Now, they have two brick-and-mortar locations serving their famous sandwiches, along with quarter and half birds, impressive sides and chicken and waffles (weekends only). You pick the heat level for your fowl, ranging from naked (no heat) to cluckin’ hot. 1023 K St.; (916) 426-6712; nashandproper.com. L. Fried chicken sandwiches and plates. $
Bawk! Chicken & Bar’s chicken and waffle
Folsom Lake, hard-
THE 7TH STREET STANDARD Located inside the Hyatt Centric, this is an unabashedly big-city restau rant: chic, urban, sophisticated. Heading up the kitchen is Ravin Patel, a Sacramento native with an impressive fine-dining pedigree. His menu has a modern California sensibility, using classic French techniques and a healthy dash of South Indian flavors. 1122 Seventh St.; (916) 371-7100; the7thstreetstan dard.com. B-L-D. Modern American. $$$
URBAN ROOTS BREWING & SMOKEHOUSE At this brewery, a smoker turns out succulent meats—brisket, ribs, turkey and sausage—in the tradition of the bar becue houses of Texas, Louisiana and Tennessee. Sides include collard greens, mac and cheese, yams and poblano cheese grits. Sit indoors or out at long picnic tables. 1322 V St.; (916) 706-3741; urbanroots brewing.com. L–D. Barbecue. $$
ALLORA Modern Italian fare with a heavy seafood bent is the focus at this sophisticated eatery. Tasting menus come in three, four and five courses, with caviar service and in-season truffles offered at an additional cost. The menu changes with the seasons, but you’ll always find fresh pasta and balsamic-glazed polpo (octopus). Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, along with a wine list weighted with classic Italian wines and new-world expressions of Italian varieties. 5215 Folsom Blvd.; (916) 538-6434; allorasacramento.com. D. Italian. $$$$
CANON With Michelin-starred chef Brad Cecchi at the helm, this breezily chic restaurant offers an ambitious menu of globally inspired sharable plates. Much of the menu is vegetarian, vegan or gluten free, but you can also order from a small selection of hearty meat, poultry and fish dishes. 1719 34th St.; (916) 469-2433; canoneastsac.com. Global/New American. D–Br. $$$–$$$$
KRU Long considered one of Sacramento’s best res taurants, chef/owner Billy Ngo produces high cali ber, exciting Japanese fare. The restaurant has a craft cocktail bar, outdoor patios and an omakase bar. 3135 Folsom Blvd.; (916) 551-1559; krurestau rant.com. L-D. Japanese. $$$-$$$$
MATTONE RISTORANTE When Sacramento’s famed Biba restaurant closed its doors, a few alums struck out on their own to open this Italian eatery. It’s a worthy successor to Biba, serving freshly made pasta and classic Italian fare such as calamari fritti, veal marsala and chicken cooked under a brick. 5723 Folsom Blvd.; (916) 758-5557; mattonesac.com. L-D. Italian $$$–$$$$
THE MIMOSA HOUSE This local chain offers a com prehensive lineup of breakfast fare: omelets, Bene dicts, crepes, waffles, burritos and, of course, mi mosas. The rest of the menu is similarly broad, with burgers, salads, grilled sandwiches and Mexican “street food.” 5641 J St.; (916) 400-4084; mimosa house.com. B–L. American. $$
OBO’ ITALIAN TABLE & BAR This casual Italian eat ery is beautifully designed and efficiently run. There are hot dishes and cold salads behind the glass cases, ready for the taking. But the stars of the menu are the freshly made pastas and wood-oven pizzas. There’s also a full bar serving Italian-theme craft cocktails. 3145 Folsom Blvd.; (916) 822-8720; oboitalian.com. L–D. Italian. $$
ONESPEED Chef Rick Mahan, who built his stellar reputation at The Waterboy in midtown, branched out with a more casual concept at his East Sac eat ery. The open bistro has a tiled pizza oven that cranks out chewy, flavorful pizzas. 4818 Folsom Blvd.; (916) 706-1748; onespeedpizza.com. B–L–D. Pizza. $$
ORIGAMI ASIAN GRILL This fast-casual eatery serves Asian-flavored rice bowls, banh mi sandwiches, salads and ramen, along with killer fried chicken and assorted smoked-meat specials from a big smoker on the sidewalk. 4801 Folsom Blvd.; (916) 400-3075; origamiasiangrill.com. L–D. Asian fu sion. $–$$
SELLAND’S MARKET-CAFE For description, see list ing under Broadway. 5340 H St.; (916) 736-3333; sellands.com. L–D–Br. Gourmet takeout. $$
AJI JAPANESE BISTRO This casually elegant restau rant offers an innovative menu of Japanese street food, interesting fusion entrees, traditional dishes such as teriyaki and tempura and—yes—sushi. There’s a short, approachable wine list, sakes and a full bar serving handcrafted cocktails. 4361 Town Center Blvd.; (916) 941-9181; aji-bistro.com. L-D. Japanese/ sushi. $-$$
C. KNIGHT’S STEAKHOUSE An upscale dinner house serving steaks, chops and seafood, this restaurant offers classic American fare that’s stood the test of time. Make sure to order the Green Phunque, a tasty side dish that’s like creamed spinach on steroids. 2085 Vine St.; (916) 235-1730; cknightssteakhouse. com. D. American steakhouse. $$$$
MILESTONE This unstuffy eatery serves great takes on comfort-food classics like pot roast and fried chicken. It’s straightforward, without pretense or gimmickry. The setting is like a Napa country porch, and the service is warm and approachable. 4359 Town Center Blvd.; (916) 934-0790; milestoneedh. com. L–D–Br. New American. $$–$$
THE MIMOSA HOUSE For description, see listing under East Sacramento, 2023 Vine St.; (916) 9340965; mimosahouse.com. B–L–D. American. $$
RELISH BURGER BAR This place offers so many entic ing choices, it’s hard to avoid order paralysis. We’ll make it easy on you: Get the teriyaki burger. The beef patty is embellished with slices of warm grilled pine apple, fried onions and melted Swiss cheese. A copi ous splash of teriyaki sauce rounds out the flavor of this delectable burger. 1000 White Rock Road; (916) 933-3111; relishburgerbar.com. L–D. Burgers. $
BOULEVARD BISTRO Located in a cozy 1908 bun galow, this bistro is one of the region’s best-kept dining secrets. Chef/owner Bret Bohlmann is a pas sionate supporter of local farmers and winemakers, and his innovative food sings with freshness and seasonality. 8941 Elk Grove Blvd.; (916) 685-2220; blvdbistro.com. D–Br. New American. $$–$$$
JOURNEY TO THE DUMPLING This Elk Grove eatery specializes in Shanghai-style dumplings (try the soup-filled xiao long bao), along with Chinese dish es such as green onion pancakes, garlic green beans a nd salt-and-pepper calamari. 7419 Laguna Blvd.; (916) 509-9556; journeytothedumpling.com. L–D. Chinese. $$
LEATHERBY’S FAMILY CREAMERY For description, see listing under “Arden Arcade.” 8238 Laguna Blvd.; (916) 691-3334; leatherbys.net. L–D. Sandwiches/ ice cream. $
MIKUNI JAPANESE RESTAURANT AND SUSHI BAR For description, see listing under “Downtown.” 8525
Garlic noodles with shrimp, dumplings and honey walnut shrimp from Journey to the DumplingBond Road; (916) 714-2112; mikunisushi.com. L–D. Japanese/sushi. $$
NASH & PROPER For description, see listing under Downtown. 9080 Laguna Main St.; (916) 897-8437; nashandproper.com. L. Fried chicken sandwiches and plates. $
THAI CHILI This plain restaurant offers an entire menu just for vegetarians, plus interesting meat and fish dishes. 8696 Elk Grove Blvd.; (916) 7143519; thaichilielkgrove.net. L–D. Thai. $$
BACCHUS HOUSE WINE BAR & BISTRO With a sea sonal menu packed with innovative, globally influ enced dishes, this restaurant has plenty to choose from. 1004 E. Bidwell St.; (916) 984-7500; bacchus housebistro.com. L–D–Br. New American. $$–$$$
BACK BISTRO A warm pocket of coziness and urban sophistication in a retail center, this place offers an appealing menu of casual nibbles and swankier entrées. But it’s the wine program that really knocks this charming little bistro out of the park. 230 Pal ladio Parkway, Suite 1201; (916) 986-9100; backbis tro.com. D. New American/Mediterranean. $$–$$$
CHICAGO FIRE Oodles of melted cheese blanket the pizzas that fly out of the kitchen of this busy restau rant. Here, you get to choose between thin-crust, deep-dish and stuffed pizzas. 310 Palladio Parkway; (916) 984-0140; chicagofire.com. L –D. Pizza. $
FAT’S ASIA BISTRO AND DIM SUM BAR This glamor ous restaurant looks like a set from an Indiana Jones movie, with tall palm trees and an enormous gold
en Buddha atop a water fountain. The menu fo cuses on Asian cuisine, from Mongolian beef and Hong Kong chow mein to Thai chicken satay served with a fiery curry-peanut sauce. 2585 Iron Point Road; (916) 983-1133; fatsasiabistro.com. L–D. PanAsian. $$
LAND OCEAN The menu hits all the steakhouse high notes: hand-cut steaks, lobster, seafood and rotis serie, entrée salads and sandwiches. 2720 E. Bidwell St.; (916) 983-7000; landoceanrestaurants.com. L–D–Br. New American/steakhouse. $$$
THE MIMOSA HOUSE For description, see listing under East Sacramento, 25075 Blue Ravine Road; (916) 293-9442; mimosahouse.com. B–L. American. $$
SCOTT’S SEAFOOD ROUNDHOUSE This restaurant offers a solid menu of delicious seafood, from crab cakes and calamari to roasted lobster tail. 824 Sut ter St.; (916) 989-6711; scottsseafoodroundhouse. com. L–D. Seafood. $$$–$$$$
CRAWDADS ON THE RIVER This restaurant draws crowds looking for a great place to party during warmweather months. Boats pull up to the restaurant’s deck, where you can sip a cocktail, and roll-up doors blur the line between indoors and out. The Cajuninspired menu includes fish tacos and several fun entrées. 1375 Garden Highway; (916) 929-2268; sac crawdads.com. L–D–Br. Cajun/American. $$
THE VIRGIN STURGEON This quirky floating restau rant is the quintessential Sacramento River dining experience. Best known for its seafood, The Virgin Sturgeon also offers weekend brunch. 1577 Garden
Highway; (916) 921-2694; thevirginsturgeon.com. L–D–Br. Seafood/American. $$
HAWKS One of Placer County’s best restaurants, Hawks is known for its elegant cuisine and beautiful interior. The dining room has clean lines, soothing colors, and crisp white tablecloths. Framed photos of farmscapes remind diners of owners Molly Hawks and Michael Fagnoni’s commitment to locally sourced ingredients. The seasonal menu is full of delicious surprises, such as seared scallop and sea urchin. 5530 Douglas Blvd.; (916) 791-6200; hawksrestau rant.com. L–D–Br. New American/French. $$$–$$$$
CACIO This tiny sliver of a restaurant has only a handful of tables—and more than a handful of people who want to dine here. The fare is highquality Italian comfort food, with an emphasis on pasta. Service is warm and homey, prices are gentle, and reservations (even at lunch) are a must. 7600 Greenhaven Drive; (916) 399-9309; caciosacra mento.com. L–D. Italian. $$
SCOTT’S SEAFOOD ON THE RIVER Located in The Westin Sacramento, Scott’s has a patio and a view of the river. Breakfast dishes include crab cake Bene dict, and lunch entrées range from petrale sole to a prawn Caesar salad. For dinner, splurge on a lobster tail or choose a more modestly priced grilled salm on. 4800 Riverside Blvd.; (916) 379-5959; scotts seafoodontheriver.com. B–L–D. Seafood. $$$–$$$$
RIVERSIDE CLUBHOUSE The busy kitchen focuses on a solid menu of American classics. Beautifully designed, the restaurant features a stunning outdoor waterfall and a tri-level fireplace. 2633 Riverside Blvd.; (916) 448-9988; riversideclubhouse.com. L–D–Br. American/New American. $$
BEAST + BOUNTY The beating heart of this chic restaurant is its open hearth, where meats and veg etables are roasted over a wood fire. The meaty ribeye, served over potatoes roasted in the meat’s fat, is meant to be shared. So is the pizza, thin, flat and seductively charred from the wood-burning pizza oven. 1701 R St.; (916) 244-4016; eatbeastandboun ty.com. L–D–Br. American. $$$
CHICAGO FIRE For description, see listing under “Folsom.” 2416 J St.; (916) 443-0440; chicagofire. com. L–D. Pizza. $
CREPEVILLE For description, see listing under “Davis.” 1730 L St.; (916) 444-1100; crepeville.com. B–L–D. Crepes. $
HAWKS PROVISIONS & PUBLIC HOUSE This sophis ticated gastropub is the latest offering from the own ers of Granite Bay’s upscale Hawks. The food is rus tic Mediterranean, with beautifully executed dishes l ike country pate and baked rigatoni. The pastas are made in-house, and even the burger is top-notch: Wagyu beef is served on a house-made brioche bun with hand-cut French fries. In addition to the res taurant (the “public house”), there’s a casual takeout shop next door serving coffee, pastries and sand wiches (the “provisions”). 1525 Alhambra Blvd.; (916) 588-4440; hawkspublichouse.com. L-D-Br. Mediter ranean gastropub. $$$
Short ribs from Hawks Rachel ValleyHOOK & LADDER MANUFACTURING COMPANY Lo cated in a Quonset hut, this restaurant is both hip and cozy. Despite the barlike ambience, Hook & Lad der is serious about food. All the pastas and desserts are made in-house. 1630 S St.; (916) 442-4885; hook andladder916.com. L–D–Br. Californian. $$
KUPROS This fun gastropub is housed in a beauti fully renovated 1910 Craftsman building. Belly up to the ground-floor bar for a pint of beer, or head upstairs for a seat in the dining room or the outdoor balcony, where you can tuck into fare such as steak frites or pot roast. 1217 21st St.; (916) 440-0401; kuproscraft house.com. L–D–Br. New American/gastropub. $$
LOCALIS This upscale restaurant is a pleasant sur prise. Localis (Latin for “local”) is a dinner-only restaurant with an inventive, prix-fixe menu of in gredient-driven dishes. Chef Christopher BarnumDann works with local farms to source most of the menu within 100 miles. 2031 S St.; (916) 737-7699; localissacramento.com. D. Californian. $$$–$$$$
LOWBRAU BIERHALLE This chic yet casual watering hole serves house-made sausages, duck fat fries and stand-out beers. Long communal tables make for an experience that’s noisy and convivial. 1050 20th St.; (916) 706-2636; lowbrausacramento.com. L–D–Br. Beer hall. $
MULVANEY’S BUILDING & LOAN Distinctive and cozy, this topflight restaurant exudes the generous affabil ity of its owner, chef Patrick Mulvaney. It’s housed in a brick firehouse from the late 1800s, and the lush patio is a popular spot in warm months. The menu changes frequently and is focused on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. 1215 19th St.; (916) 441-6022; mulvaneysbl.com . L–D. Californian. $$$
PARAGARY’S This legendary restaurant focuses on elegant, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. 1401 28th St.; (916) 457-5737; paragarys.com. L–D–Br. New American/Californian. $$–$$$
THE RED RABBIT KITCHEN & BAR The menu is a playful jumble of dishes, some robustly American, others with an Asian, Latin or Mediterranean influ ence. 2718 J St.; (916) 706-2275; theredrabbit.net. L–D–Br. New American. $$
THE RIND At this cheese-centric bar, you can savor cheese in a number of ways. The menu includes variations on macaroni and cheese, cheese boards and creative grilled cheese sandwiches. 1801 L St.; (916) 441-7463; therindsacramento.com. L–D. American. $$
SAIGON ALLEY KITCHEN + BAR This hip restaurant and bar serves modern versions of Vietnamese street food, such as a “Pho-rench” dip (a French dip with pho flavors) and a “banh mi” burger (a rib-eye burg er garnished with pickled daikon and carrot on a baguette). A big draw is the $3 happy hour, featur ing snacks like banh mi taco, fish sauce chicken wings, taro fries and sugarcane shrimp for $3 each. 1801 L St.; (916) 758-6934; saigonalley.com. L–D. Vietnamese. $$
THE WATERBOY This Mediterranean-inspired res taurant produces perhaps the finest cooking in the region. Chef/owner Rick Mahan honors local farmers with his commitment to simply prepared, high-cal iber food. You can’t go wrong if you order one of the lovely salads, followed by the gnocchi, ravioli or a simple piece of fish, finished with butter and fresh herbs. You’ll also find French classics such as veal sweetbreads and pomme frites. 2000 Capitol Ave.; (916) 498-9891; waterboyrestaurant.com. L–D. Mediterranean. $$$$
ZÓCALO This Mexican restaurant is one of the best places to while away an evening with friends over
margaritas During warm months, the wraparound sidewalk patio is one of the most popular spots in town. 1801 Capitol Ave.; (916) 441-0303; zocalosac ramento.com. L–D–Br. Mexican. $$
FIXINS SOUL KITCHEN This bustling place, partly owned by former mayor Kevin Johnson, serves up friendly Southern hospitality along with delicious Southern fare, including chicken and waffles, gumbo, fried catfish, and shrimp and grits. 3428 Third Ave.; (916); 999-7685. fixinssoulkitchen.com. B–L–D–Br. Southern. $$
LA VENADITA This inviting, casual taqueria has a concise menu that includes inventive street tacos, a brightly flavored ceviche and an enchilada with rich mole sauce. It also boasts a full bar and an enticing menu of craft cocktails. 3501 Third Ave.; (916) 4004676; lavenaditasac.com. L–D. Mexican. $$
THE FIREHOUSE Since opening in 1960, this has been Sacramento’s go-to restaurant for romantic atmosphere and historic charm. Located in a 1853 firehouse, it’s white tablecloth all the way, with crys tal wine glasses and top-notch service. The outdoor courtyard is one of the prettiest in town, and its canopy of trees sparkles at night with tiny lights. The food is special-occasion worthy, and the wine list represents more than 2,100 labels. 1112 Second St.; (916) 442-4772; firehouseoldsac.com. L–D. Californian/American. $$$$
RIO CITY CAFE Located on the riverbank, the restau
rant offers stunning views of Tower Bridge. The menu changes seasonally and offers a wide selection of creative, solid dishes. 1110 Front St.; (916) 442-8226; riocitycafe.com. L–D–Br. New American. $$
CATTLEMENS This classic Western steakhouse serves up big slabs of prime rib, porterhouse, T-bone and cowboy steaks, plus all the trimmings: shrimp cocktail, loaded potato skins, deep-fried onions and more. 12409 Folsom Blvd.; (916) 985-3030; cattle mens.com. D. Steakhouse. $$$
J.J. PFISTER RESTAURANT & TASTING ROOM In ad dition to a tasting room where you can sample lo cally made premium gin, vodka and rum, this fam ily-owned distillery also operates a restaurant serving lunch and dinner. The all-day menu features salads, sandwiches and tacos, along with the whim sical “Adult Lunchable”—an assortment of cheeses, deli meats and accompaniments. Desserts get the boozy treatment: Order cheesecake topped with bourbon caramel and whipped cream, or fudge clus ters made with Pfister’s Navy Strength rum. 9819 Business Park Drive; (916) 672-9662; jjpfister.com. L–D. Casual American. $$
THE MIMOSA HOUSE For description, see listing under East Sacramento, 3155 Zinfandel Drive; (916) 970-1761 and 2180 Golden Centre Lane; (916) 8224145; mimosahouse.com. B–L. American. $$
CATTLEMENS This classic Western steakhouse serves up big slabs of prime rib, porterhouse, T-bone
Churro French toast from Kuprosand cowboy steaks, plus all the trimmings: shrimp cocktail, loaded potato skins, deep-fried onions and more. 2000 Taylor Road; (916) 782-5587; cattlemens.com. D. Steakhouse. $$$
FAT’S ASIA BISTRO AND DIM SUM BAR For descrip tion, see listing under “Folsom.” 1500 Eureka Road; (916) 787-3287; fatsasiabistro.com. L–D. Pan-Asian. $$
LA PROVENCE RESTAURANT & TERRACE This el egant French restaurant offers some of the region’s loveliest outdoor dining. The seasonal menu fea tures items such as bouillabaisse and soupe au pistou. 110 Diamond Creek Place; (916) 789-2002; laprovenceroseville.com. L–D–Br. French. $$$–$$$$
For description, see listing under “Downtown.” 1565 Eureka Road; (916) 797-2112; mikunisushi.com. L–D. Japanese/sushi. $$
THE MIMOSA HOUSE For description, see listing under East Sacramento, 761 Pleasant Grove Blvd.; (916) 784-1313; mimosahouse.com. B–L. American. $$
PAUL MARTIN’S AMERICAN GRILL The bustling, comfortable restaurant is a local favorite. The kitchen offers a great list of small plates and robust, approachable entrées. 1455 Eureka Road; (916) 783-3600; paulmartinsamericangrill.com. L–D–Br. New American. $$–$$$
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE This swanky dinner house serves some of the tastiest meat in town. Expertly cooked steaks are seared at 1,800 degrees. Don’t miss the cowboy rib-eye or the fork-tender
filet mignon. 1185 Galleria Blvd.; (916) 780-6910; ruthschris.com. D. Steakhouse. $$$$
THE MIMOSA HOUSE For description, see listing under “East Sacramento.” 761 Pleasant Grove Blvd., Roseville; (916) 784-1313; mimosahouse.com. B–L–D. American. $$
CAFE BERNARDO AT PAVILIONS For description, see listing under “Downtown.” 515 Pavilions Lane; (916) 922-2870; cafebernardo.com. B–L–D. New American. $
ETTORE’S This bakery is a convivial spot for a ca sual meal. It’s hard to take your eyes off the dessert cases long enough to choose your savory items. But you’ll soon discover the kitchen’s talent extends to the wonderful pizzas, cooked in a wood-burning oven, hearty sandwiches and burgers, and fresh salads. 2376 Fair Oaks Blvd.; (916) 482-0708; et tores.com. B–L–D. Bakery/New American. $–$$
LEMON GRASS RESTAURANT Lemon Grass serves delicious, upscale Asian fare such as salad rolls, green curry and catfish in a clay pot. Everything tastes fresh, light and clean. 601 Munroe St.; (916) 486-4891; lemongrassrestaurant.com. L–D. PanAsian. $$$
PIATTI The culinary focus is on Italian cuisine with an American influence, and the menu includes de lightful variations on Italian staples—margherita, pesto or roasted chicken pizzas; ravioli, pappardelle and fettuccine pasta dishes. 571 Pavilions Lane; (916) 649-8885; piatti.com/sacramento. L–D. Italian/ American. $$
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE For description, see listing under “Roseville.” 501 Pavilions Lane; (916) 286-2702; ruthschris.com. L (Fridays only)–D. Steakhouse. $$$$
WILDWOOD RESTAURANT & BAR Owned by the Haines brothers of 33rd Street Bistro fame, this chic restaurant serves New American and global cuisine, with naan, ahi poke, pancetta prawns and rock shrimp risotto sharing the menu with an all-Amer ican burger. The spacious patio is a great place to grab a drink and listen to live music. 556 Pavilions Lane; (916) 922-2858; wildwoodpavilions.com. L–D–Br. American/global fusion. $$$
BINCHOYAKI Small plates of grilled meats, fish and vegetables are the stars at this izakaya-style res taurant. But you can also order ramen, tempura and other Japanese favorites. 2226 10th St.; (916) 469-9448; binchoyaki.com. L–D. Japanese. $$–$$$
BACON & BUTTER Lively and delightfully urban, the place is packed with fans of chef Billy Zoellin’s homey flapjacks, biscuits and other breakfasty fare. 5913 Broadway; (916) 346-4445; baconandbuttersac. com. B–L. Breakfast/American. $–$$
MOMO’S MEAT MARKET This family-run business serves simply first-rate barbecue, smoked over wood in huge drums in the parking lot. Sides include pepper Jack mac ’n cheese, cornbread and deepfried cabbage. 5780 Broadway; (916) 452-0202. L–D. Barbecue. $$
DRAKE’S: THE BARN Located in a stunningly mod ern indoor-outdoor structure along the river, Drake’s serves excellent thin-crust pizzas, along with a few salads and appetizers. You can get table service indoors or on the patio. But if you prefer something more casual, grab a folding lawn chair, find a spot at the sprawling outdoor taproom and order a pizza to go. It’s fun galore, with kids, dogs, fire pits and a tap trailer serving beer. 985 River front St.; (510) 423-0971; drinkdrakes.com. L–D. Pizza. $$
FRANQUETTE This contemporary French café from the owners of Canon is an open-all-day, drop-infor-a-glass-of-wine kind of place. You can order a freshly baked croissant or tartine at breakfast, a salad, quiche or jambon sandwich on a baguette for lunch, and something a little more filling—say, duck meatballs or a crock of boeuf bourguignon—at din ner. It’s grandma food—or, in this case, grandmère food: warm, satisfying and homey. 965 Bridge St.; hellofranquette.com. B-L-D. French. $$–$$$
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Burger from Ettore’sSome daring construction work ers created a photo op by hanging around at the partially erected Capital National Bank Building in 1915. The building, at Seventh and J streets, still stands today.
—DARLENA BELUSHIN MCKAY
Caption
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