San Joaquin Magazine FEBRUARY 2009

SANJOAQUIN THE PREMIER MAGA ZINE OF C E N T R A L VA L L E Y L I V I N G

MAGAZINE

GUIDE FOR THE BRIDE YOUR LOCAL WEDDING RESOURCE GUIDE (starting on page 33)

Brunch San Joaquin’s favorite local spots

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» KENDALL’S CULINARY » SANTA ROSA GETAWAY » SIPPING IN DOWNTOWN LODI » FOOD, TIDBITS, AND EVENTS

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february volume eight issue two • FEBRUARY 2009

features 24 Sipping downtown Here’s a toast to Lodi’s emerging trend, the downtown wine tasting room.

by Jennifer Bonnett

28 santa rosa From antiquing in historic Railroad

Square to the Charles M. Schulz Museum to the wineries, Santa Rosa has a wine country charm that’s all its own.

by Don and Ann Jackson

90

Top to Bottom: Courtesy Feed and fuel Restaurants; Brenda Hartshorn

90 Rise and shine San Joaquin’s favorite Sunday brunch

spots make us oh so happy to not make the choice between breakfast and lunch.

by Lauren LaBelle

99 EATING organic We’ve all the word “organic.” But what does it really mean? And should you be buying into it? by Jennifer Bonnett SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

96 chef profiles COVER PHOTO:

Sergio’s brunch, Brenda Hartshorn

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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february volume eight issue two • FEBRUARY 2009

DEPARTMENTS 6 11

Publisher’s Note UP FRONT | 209 Emily Kendall Fleak, of Kendall’s Private Culinary Services; What’s cooking at Ironstone Vineyards ; Delta College’s culinary program; Sister Cities ; Roses for your sweetheart; Haute Items for the kitchen; and more.

24 Community: Sipping Downtown Lodi’s newest trend in wine tasting 20 1 122 124 128

122

Arts and Culture 10 Great Dates Out and About What’s What Contest

Food&wine 99 Eating Organic: Local foodie Laura McIntosh weighs in on what it means to eat and cook organically

102 Wine Picks: Why join a wine club 103 Uncorked: Wine Q&A

108 Lodi’s Spanish wines

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99 All photos COURTESY

110 Dining Out 112 Food and Wine Tidbits: Woodbridge Winery’s bottling frenzy; Cooking classes at Vino Con Brio winery; In Season: Cherries

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san joaquin magazine

February 2009

Award winning smiles everyday Come see why we were voted The Record’s Best of San Joaquin…

And enjoy the benefits of a beautiful and healthy smile for 2009!

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TODD A. FRANKLIN, DDS • Senior Instructor - California Center for Advanced Dental Studies • Instructor - Northern California Institute of Cosmetic Dentistry

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Up Front >

publisher’s note

Good Eats for All It’s no secret that I love dining out. On a weekly basis, I get to experience some of the area’s great cuisine and talk with the chefs and owners behind such good eats. I consider myself lucky to get to experience many of the wonderful restaurants here locally.

In San Joaquin, we have some of the best chefs and restaurants bringing food to our tables. Forget that the Zagat Guide doesn’t visit our area (they don’t make a point to visit the East Bay either, by the way)—we don’t need any book to tell us how lucky we are to have such high quality restaurants and delicious food from which to choose. Some of my favorites are the asparagus special at Tracy Thai, the sushi creations at Mikasa Japanese Bistro in Lathrop, and the lamb chops at Papapavlo’s in Stockton. In this issue, we also spotlight some of the best places to get Sunday Brunch in San Joaquin (page 90).

What if you want to try your own hand in the kitchen? San Joaquin’s got that too.

Take a cooking class with Executive Chef James Lehman at Ironstone Vineyards’ kitchen (page 14), or with Chef Gary Degrande (of Lodi’s Degrande’s Café) in the Vino Con Brio winery kitchen (page 112). If you’re really serious about learning to cook, check out San Joaquin Delta College’s culinary program, which specializes in both pastries and hot food, and has trained some of the Central Valley’s most promising chefs (page 14).

Last but not least, if you want to stay in your own home, but don’t want to tackle the kitchen at all, invite over Emily Kendall Fleak of Kendall’s Private Culinary Services (page 11) to take over the culinary corner of your home. Kendall’s offers catering services, pre-prepared meals waiting in the fridge for working families that don’t have the time to cook, dinner for parties as small as a two-person romantic rendezvous, cooking classes in your own home for your friends, and pretty much anything else you can think up that needs to be taken care of in the kitchen.

Can you tell that I love the time of year when we get to work on the food issue of San Joaquin magazine? Enjoy reading it just as much as we enjoyed researching it.

Bon Appetit!

Tony Zoccoli Publisher, San Joaquin magazine

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volume 8 issue 2

SANJOAQUIN

MaGaZiNe

PuBLisher | eDitor Tony zoccoli MaNaGiNG eDitor Jamie menaker assoCiate eDitor lauren laBelle CreatiVe DePartMeNt sherry Roberts eDitoriaL iNquiries jamie@sanjoaquinmagazine.com CoNtriButiNG writers matthew Andrews, Cindy Arora, Jennifer Bonnett, nissa Hallquist, Tammy Hansen, patricia Kutza, Andrea stuart PhotoGraPhY Brenda Hartshorn aCCouNt eXeCutiVes Heather Hilton, Jessica Krablin, sadye Reish, Valerie Zoccoli aCCouNtiNG Raman singh eDitoriaL iNterN Amanda Rife eDitoriaL/aDVertisiNG offiCes

Maywell L. Inong, DDS G  C D

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San Joaquin magazine accepts freelance contributions, however, there is no guarantee that manuscripts or photography (solicited or unsolicited) will be returned. San Joaquin magazine assumes no responsibility or liability for claims made by advertisers contained herein. the opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of San Joaquin magazine or its parent company, inside Magazines Publishing Company, or its owners. inside Magazines is not responsible for typographical errors or omissions. all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from this publisher. Photographs, graphics, and artwork are the property of inside Magazines Publishing Company. © 2009 inside Magazines

subscribe today: one (1) Year $9.95 (12 issues), or two (2) Years $17.95 (24 issues). to subscribe, send your check to address above, subscribe online at www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com, or call our office today at 209.833.9989. Don’t miss another issue of San Joaquin magazine.

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JAnUARY 2009

Breast Health

Orthopedics

Obstetrics/Gynecology

Emergency Services

UpFront 209 TRENDS PEOPLE CULTURE STYLE

From Her Kitchen To Yours

Kendall’s Private Culinary Services

by Jamie Menaker

BRENDA HARTSHORN

We’ve all been there, standing in the kitchen after a long day at the office, trying to think of something healthy and hearty to prepare for dinner, but too exhausted to come up with anything but take-out. Or planning a dinner party, but with no idea where to start.

Emily Kendall Fleak has been there, too. As the namesake for her company, Kendall’s Culinary Services, she wants home chefs to know that it isn’t as impossible as it seems. »

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

san joaquin magazine

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UpFront 209 >

trends, people, culture, style

cultivated her interest in the culinary arts and the act of passing that love on to others.

“My company grew from people calling and saying ‘I need this’, whether it be a [cooking] class, or food for the week,” she says. “We go to our clients and say ‘What are you looking for?’ That’s really what our business has always been about. Our clients will mention something that they would like to see us do, and then we will make it happen.” Kendall Fleak also explains that she does quite a few small events, which many caterers won’t do.

“It’s really nice to be able to pull it down in scale, and do a small dinner for two people or a group of people that are really going to enjoy it.” Kendall Fleak has cooked for family lunches in the barrel room at Lange Twins Winery, and surprise romantic dinners for husband-and-wife on Valentine’s Day. Although she does hire assistants to help serve, and to set up and clean up, Kendall

Fleak does all the chef duties herself from start to finish. Her husband, Jeff Fleak, joined the company a year ago to take over the marketing and business side of Kendall’s, and Kendall Fleak couldn’t be happier.

“I just like to play and have fun with food,” she says. “I am really big into cooking local and organic. We try and do different things that people haven’t had before, or haven’t seen. I love appetizers the most.

That was one of the reasons that I wanted to do smaller events, so that I could play around with the food selections.”

Some of Kendall Fleak’s favorites include an Ahi Tuna Poke with soy sauce and ginger on a wonton crisp, and mushrooms stuffed with short ribs. Her red wine risotto has also garnered quite a few requests.

“Our mission is really to educate people about great food, how easy it can be to prepare,” says Kendall Fleak. “It’s all about just simple, great ingredients.”

For more information: Call Kendall’s Private Culinary Services at (209) 478-1100, or visit www.kendallsculinary.com

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February 2009

BRENDA HARTSHORN

In business since 2003, Kendall Fleak is open to taking on any culinary service that her San Joaquin neighbors find a need for—in their kitchen, in their own home. The possibilities are endless. Imagine a personal chef to fill up the fridge with meals for the week, or a cocktail party that requires a gourmet dinner. Kendall Fleak also teaches cooking classes for any type of group in her clients’ home with a menu to their specifications, and caters events of all sizes, even a romantic meal for a couple’s anniversary.

“I fell into doing this by accident,” says Kendall Fleak. “I was in Beyond Pots and Pans [in Stockton], where I actually once bought my first set of pots, and I had been doing odd cooking things around the area here and there. Someone walked in looking for a personal chef, and it snowballed with other clients.” In reality, Kendall Fleak’s accidental status is not quite on the mark.

As a graduate of San Francisco’s California Culinary Academy (CCA), she has carefully

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UpFront 209 >

trends, people, culture, style

Culinary Endeavors Delta College’s up-and-coming chefs

At Ironstone Vineyards in Murphys, more than just a winery and tasting room—we’re talking weddings, museum, gourmet delicatessen—Executive Chef James Lehman (pictured) is passing on his love for great food to San Joaquin’s aspiring chefs. At Ironstone since 2005, Chef Lehman wants people to know that cooking can be enjoyable.

Lehman holds classes as often as he can in Ironstone’s kitchen, between busy seasons at the winery, when he is developing new menus and catering to Ironstone’s private events. All classes are hands-on, with about twelve students, and students eat together what they prepare, with a discussion of wine pairings. Chef Lehman originally started out teaching classes at Ironstone in different cuisines, like Spanish and Italian, but what he likes to teach best is basic cooking skills.

“You’re not going to learn to cook unless you learn the basic cooking skills,” says Chef Lehman. “If you learn the skills, it becomes easy and actually enjoyable to be in the kitchen, skills like dicing carrots, and preparing chicken or fish.”

Check out Chef Lehman’s Healthy Cooking class February 8 or Pizzas and Calzones February 22, but be sure to register beforehand as these classes fill up quickly.

Chef Lehman is also the culinary force behind the annual summer barbecue competition at Ironstone, a project particularly close to his heart.

—Jamie Menaker

For more information: www.deltacollege.edu

For more information: Classes are $75 each. Call (209) 728-1251 or visit www.ironstonevineyards.com

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san joaquin magazine

February 2009

photos courtesy ironstone vineyards

What’s Cooking at Ironstone Vineyards

It’s quite possible that the next great American chef may be coming from right here in our own backyard. San Joaquin Delta College has been quietly grooming chefs with its culinary arts program for almost thirty years, with former students in kitchens like Stockton’s Cocoro restaurant, Stockton Country Club, and the new waterfront hotel.

Today, aspiring chefs can either complete a certificate program—Baking and Pastry, Basic Culinary Arts, or Advanced Culinary Arts—or earn a baking or culinary arts degree. Classes like Restaurant Operations and Menu Planning are enhanced by the on-site Student Chef Restaurant, with the entire menu prepared and served by Delta College culinary students, and changing seasonal selections every three weeks. This past fall’s selections included dishes like butternut squash soup, roast pork tenderloin, vegetable risotto, and a pumpkin praline pie.

“The busier we are, the better it is for the students to get real world experience,” says Lead Hot Food Instructor Mark Berkner.

“We think it’s one of the best kept lunch secrets in Stockton. We really just try to cover the cost of the food, so you can get a rack of lamb for about $7.” —Jamie Menaker

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UpFront 209 >

trends, people, culture, style

[ 1 of 9 SiSter Cities ]

Sister City Parma, Italy

Parma, a Sister City of Stockton, is a city of around 200,000 people located in Northern Italy, just outside Milan and Genoa.

Parma and Stockton share numerous similarities, and for this reason the two cities have enjoyed a prosperous partnership since their alliance was formed in 1998. Parma, like its American counterpart, has agriculture at the core of its economy. Such world-renowned foods as Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Prosciutto di Parma ham originated in the fertile land around this city.

It is also the home of Barilla Pasta, the world’s largest pasta

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company. In addition, Parma, like Stockton, has a large focus on education and the arts. The University of Parma, which was founded in the eleventh century, is one of the oldest universities in the world. The city also boasts a growing fashion industry and a musical heritage that has given the world great composers and musicians, such as Giuseppe Verdi and Arturo Toscanini. The flourishing relationship between Parma and Stockton has included professor exchanges, fashion shows, culinary classes, and sporting events. This month, chefs from Parma will be at Delta College to teach cooking classes, and the city will dedicate a new park in north Stockton to be called Parma Sister City Park.

—Matthew Andrews february 2009

photos courtesy diana Maccini Lowery/Stockton Sister Cities association

P

resident Eisenhower announced in 1956 a “Sister Cities” program for American cities to form partnerships with cities around the world, in order to promote peace and create economic and cultural alliances. Over the last fifty years, local cities have created and maintained close bonds with cities from all around the globe. This is part 1 of 9 in our series featuring our local Sister Cities.

UpFront 209 >

trends, people, culture, style

Flowers for your flower

Valentine’s Day can be a tricky holiday, and an ambiguous gift can stir up all kinds of trouble. So, if you decide to say it with flowers, keep yourself out of hot water, and study up on traditional rose color meanings before bringing two dozen red roses to a blind date. Good luck and Happy Valentine’s Day! - Lauren LaBelle

Red:

Love and Romance

Pink:

Admiration and Appreciation

Yellow:

Joy and Friendship

White:

Purity, New Beginnings, and Remembrance

Orange: Enthusiastic Desire

Lavender:

Love at first sight, Enchantment

Single Long Stemmed:

Simplicity

A Bunch of One Dozen:

Traditional, stating appreciation

A Bunch of Two Dozen:

Romantically says, “I belong to you”

Petite bunch:

Affection at the “sweetheart” level

Reliable local flower shops, to indulge your inner Romeo: Cazale’s Flower Shop Stockton, (209) 466-7971

Flower Pavillion Tracy, (209) 836-3751

www.cazalesflowershop.com

www.flowerpavillion.com

Fiore Floral and Gifts Linden, (209) 887-2019

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san joaquin magazine

Sweet Peas Floral Design Stockton, (209) 472-9284

The Flower Cart Lodi, (209) 333-2663

San Francisco Floral Stockton, (209) 942-0373

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February 2009

NEW YORK CITY

MARAT HON

Run for your life.

Alfred Murillo had a triple bypass, then ran the New York City Marathon.

An avid runner and bona fide health nut, Alfred Murillo had paced himself through twenty marathons. But a few years ago, sensing something didn’t feel right, he did the smart thing and had his heart checked out. The diagnosis? Major blockage of one of his arteries. Surgery was needed immediately. Within a week, triple bypass surgery was performed at St. Joseph’s Heart Center. Today, thanks to Alfred’s foresight and the first-rate heart team at St. Joseph’s, Alfred is recovering the only way he knows how. By running more marathons. Since his surgery, he’s run marathons in San Diego, New York City and Rome, Italy. Alfred Murillo is running miracle miles, all the way.

miracles happen.

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1800 N. California St., Stockton, CA 95204 san joaquin magazine

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UpFront 209 >

haute items

Haute in the

Kitchen compiled by Lauren LaBelle

Quite A-Peeling

All peelers are not created equal. Take these colorful gadgets from Swissmar for example: one peeler has a serrated edge for peeling soft, fleshed vegetables; one is thick for the skin of root vegetables; and one is thin for julienne slices. Packaged individually or in sets of three. Available at www.williams-sonoma.com

Custom Cookbook

Home chefs can create their own affordable, hardcover cookbooks, personalized with their own recipes and photos.

Tastebooks can be organized by theme, season, or relative, and make great gifts for those friends and family always asking if they can steal the secret behind your specialty sauce.

Available at www.tastebook.com

Zip It

Every year we resist eating delicious corn on the cob, in fear of using up all the dental floss in the house. We’ve missed out on adding the golden kernel to soups, salads, and salsas, until we found this corn zipper from Kuhn Rikon, which easily removes rows of kernels from the cob to be used in any way you choose. Available at Lodi Cooks, Lodi, (209) 334-5751

Coffee for One

Breville’s Keurig single serving coffeemaker puts an end to couples’ debate about what defines a good cup of coffee.

With easy to use, single serving coffee K-cups available in different brands and varieties, everyone in the house will wake up the right way. Available at Macy’s, Stockton, www.macys.com

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We’re Whipped

Presto Change-o! The Isi Dessert Whip will transform regular old liquids into exciting, decorative whipped cream with the push of a button, and without the extra dishes. It also includes flavored whipped cream recipes to make any dessert an inspiration.

Available at Beyond Pots and Pans, Stockton, www.beyondpotsandpans.com

February 2009

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BELLA’S BRIDAL It’s a store full of celebrations, making dreams come true. If you’re looking for that perfect wedding dress, Bella’s Bridal has it. This wedding dress is designed by Impression Bridal, Couture Collection. The elegant mermaid gown has embroidery trimming with a lower torso and chapel train; the strapless neckline meets the embroidery on the midriff. Available at Bella’s Bridal, 1744 Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 464-2735, www.bellasbridalshop.com

February 2009

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Community >

local trend

Dancing Fox Winery

sipping downtown

Lodi’s newest tasting rooms are bringing wine country downtown

by JENNIFER BONNETT | photos by Brenda Hartshorn

The scene

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It’s a crisp evening in downtown Lodi. The stars are out, as you and your love stroll along School Street taking in the night air. You have no desire to brave one of the local bars in search of a drink, seeking something more intimate, quiet maybe. Instead, you toast to Lodi’s emerging trend: downtown wine tasting rooms.

With a little push from the city’s marketing team, because it just makes sense to have a core destination for wine tasting, wineries are answering the call and slowly opening one door after another for patrons in downtown Lodi. Each tasting room is unique in setting, but they all offer the same thing: one-on-one personal tasting attention, without driving through Lodi’s rural country roads traveling from one winery’s tasting room to another. The hope is that visitors will soon be arriving by car, foot, and even train to enjoy downtown Lodi, since the Amtrak station is less than a block away from these sipping spots. » February 2009

Cellar Door

Cellar Door, open since March 2007, brought together three of Lodi’s best-known wineries, mixed in a little ambience, and turned wine tasting into a treat for more than just your sense of taste.

Take a seat at the bar for a glass of wine from Jessie’s Grove, MichaelDavid, or Van Ruiten wineries, or grab a spot on one of the venue’s inviting, black leather couches.

When the weather turns warmer, you can enjoy your wine and good company outside on the patio, surrounded by an intricate wroughtiron fence. Some say it’s the best people-watching spot in Lodi.

More than that, Cellar Door goes beyond just wine. On many evenings during the week, the hot spot hosts local bands and even mixes Salsa dancing with sipping.

Patrons can also mix their tasting with gourmet appetizers like Greek olives, roasted almonds, or, our favorite, gorgonzola from the Cellar Door’s gourmet cheese platter. The ambience is so enjoyable, you might find yourself never wanting to leave.

If you go: Cellar Door, 21 N. School St., (209) 339-4394, www.lodicellar door.com. Open Tuesday and Wednesday, 12 to 6 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday, 12 to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, 12 to 5 p.m.

Dancing Fox

Although it was scheduled to open just last month, Dancing Fox Winery and Bakery hopes to emerge as one of downtown’s premiere tasting spots, with its old country ambience and personal touches such as watching the wine being made while sipping it. The downtown tasting room is located in a separate space in the back of the restaurant, with a wide window overlooking the grape crush area and temperature-controlled barrel room. www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

cellar door

san joaquin magazine

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Community >

Dancing Fox Winery

local trend Back at the bar, guests will enjoy sipping Dancing Fox’s private label while taking in the rich gold hue of wall paint and gazing upon large murals painted by local artist June Sand. The heavy bar is flanked by a mirror with a unique, antique wooden frame, echoing the oldworld style throughout the restaurant. Be sure to check out the same grape motif on the bar and front marble-top counter.

Once home to a popular downtown restaurant, Dancing Fox owners Gregg and Colleen Lewis have opened up the space, literally, by uncovering floor-to-ceiling windows, thereby exposing the original brick, once-obscured vaulted ceilings, and wooden crossbeams, leaving us in awe over the building’s true beauty.

If you go: Dancing Fox Winery and Bakery, 203 S. School St., www.dancing foxwinery.com

Grands Amis

Grands Amis

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Grands Amis was actually downtown Lodi’s first tasting room.

Jonathan and Cathy Wetmore went out on a limb when they decided a few years back to move their tasting room from Vino Piazza in Lockeford to an intimate location across the way from their business office.

It’s a little hard to find, located between the theater and a funeral home, Jonathan jokes, but once you do, we agree it’s worth the effort.

For your endeavor, you’ll be rewarded with plenty of on-site parking and boutique winery hospitality.

Grands Amis’ philosophy that great wine is meant to be shared with “great friends” is apparent as one glass of award-winning Zinfandel after another is poured from behind the friendly bar. The 800-case-a-year boutique winery is unveiling its first white varietal, a Pinot Grigio, this spring.

Jonathan, who farms his own grapes, told us he’s excited about

other tasting rooms opening downtown, figuring each one helps all of them become a true destination location.

If you go: Grands Amis, 115 N. School St., Ste. 5, (209) 369-6805, www.grands amis.com. Open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m., and by appointment during the week

And More to Come...

Benson Ferry Winery has already purchased the site at 112 West Pine Street, and plans to swing open its tasting room doors by the end of this month, according to Alan MacIssac, who told us there will also be an outdoor courtyard where patrons can enjoy a glass of wine.

The business will be known as Lodi Wine Cellar, and, similar to Cellar Door around the corner, it will invite other wineries to pour here as well. Benson Ferry, now located in rural Lodi, does not have a tasting room at its current business office.

MacIssac, who will operate the distribution office at the same Pine Street location, says being downtown has a lot of merit—and a lot of retail traffic.

Anna Goehring, Lodi Wine and Visitor Center spokeswoman, says the allure of locating a tasting room downtown is just another vehicle to put visitors face to face with local winemakers, since many run their own tasting rooms. This way, guests can ask questions about the wine they’re tasting and the grapes that went into it, from the very person who crafted the vintage.

“Downtown Lodi has become the heartbeat of the city, with art galleries, wonderful restaurants, numerous events, and specialty shops,” says Goehring. “Not only locals, but a growing number of out-of-town visitors enjoy our charming historic downtown.” SJM

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29

One Day Getaways >

Santa Rosa

paradise ridge winery

Amgen Bike Tour

Santa Rosa Wine Country Charm and Snoopy Too...

by DON and ANN JACKSON | All photos courtesy

Santa Rosa may not be one of the first destinations that comes to mind when San Joaquin Valley readers think of a wine country getaway, but in our eyes it should be. We’ve always enjoyed visiting Santa Rosa for the antique shopping at historic Railroad Square, but only recently did we get the chance to actually explore this diverse Sonoma County city.

When compared to staying in Napa or Sonoma, Santa Rosa has a charm that’s all its own. More unique options are available when it comes to activities and attractions, and lodging prices are more moderate. As for wine tasting, there are numerous wineries nearby, and unlike Napa and Sonoma, many offer complimentary samplings.

PLAY One of our favorite local wineries is Paradise Ridge (www.prwinery.com), where panoramic vistas of the Russian River

Valley and coastal mountains compliment their award-winning wines.

The winery is also home to a sculpture garden that changes yearly and features sculptures by over twenty Northern California artists. Another favorite vintner in Santa Rosa is Matanzas Creek Winery (www. matanzascreek.com), owned by Jess Jackson of Kendall Jackson fame.

This winery is especially known for their Merlots and Chardonnays, and their beautiful lavender gardens.

SaFari West Wild animal park

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san joaquin magazine

Back in town, visitors can see the lasting influence that Charles Schulz has had on Santa Rosa. Humorous reminders of the late cartoonist, February 2009

Vintners inn

creator of the world-famous “Peanuts” cartoon strip, T.V. shows, and movies, can be found all over the county’s largest city—and we mean everywhere.

Due to a three-year fundraising project, over fifty creatively painted statues of Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and Woodstock can be found at shopping centers, office buildings, public parks, and other sites. The Charles M. Schulz Museum (www. schulzmuseum.org) is a must-visit even if you’re not yet a “Peanuts” fan. The museum’s exhibits include most of Schulz’s original drawings, showings of his animated T.V. specials in the big screen theater, and his colorful studio/office that was moved intact from its original site.

For an outdoor adventure, visit Santa Rosa’s wild animal park, Safari West (www.safariwest. com). We’ve visited many wild animal sanctuaries throughout the world, and this 400-acre home to hundreds of exotic animals and birds stands out as one of the best. Reservations are required for admission, the guided stroll around the grounds, and an authentic safari vehicle tour of the “Sonoma Serengeti,” www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

featuring giraffes, zebras, cape buffalos, gazelles, and wildebeests, among other animals—the newest addition is two White Rhinoceroses from South Africa.

If possible, stay overnight in one of the on-site luxury tent cabins, and enjoy the rustic ranch setting and barbeque-style dining.

Santa Rosa was one of the inaugural host cities for the Amgen Tour of California (www. amgentourofcalifornia.com), a world-class, 666-mile bicycle race won the last two years by Levi Leipheimer, a Santa Rosa resident.

The next nine-day event arrives in Santa Rosa from Sacramento/ Davis on Sunday, February 15, which happens to also be President’s Day weekend. Enjoy the exciting finish of the race along the downtown streets, including live music, a kids’ bike race, and festival vendors in the Courtyard Square area.

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One Day Getaways >

Santa Rosa

town, developed in the 1870s and listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Known for antiques and unique home décor and furniture, we love that you can find quirky items on the same street as running shoes and art for the home. Check out Whistle Stop Antiques, with over thirty unique antique dealers, a vintage bookstore selection, and estate jewelry.

Funky boutique Hot Couture features vintage clothing and jewelry for both men and women. Post-shopping, enjoy the Vineyard Creek Hyatt’s courtyard, where locals and visitors alike congregate around benches, beautifully potted trees, and a built-in fire pit.

EAT For many years, the best dining in Santa Rosa has been legendary Zagat favorite, John Ash & Co., located in the Vintners

Inn (www.vintnersinn.com), and their highly regarded culinary tradition continues. The vineyard next door dramatically enhances this award-winning wine country cuisine. For those who enjoy a fine dining experience in a historic setting, Ca’Bianca (www.cabianca. com), near downtown, is another first-rate choice. Located in an 1876 Victorian, their authentic Italian fare should prove to be a popular decision.

Steak and chop lovers should check out Stark’s Steak House (www.starkssteakhouse.com) in the Railroad Square area, the best Northern California steak house we’ve enjoyed outside San Francisco in the last few years. Also owned by the Stark Restaurant Group, Willi’s Wine Bar (www.williswinebar.net) on Old Redwood Highway features creative ‘small plates’ with an international flair, and

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Clockwise from top left: Charles M. Schulz museum; tent cabins at Safari West wild animal park; the ambiance and a dish at Willi’s Wine Bar

Monti’s Rotisserie and Bar (www.montisroti. net), located in the Montgomery Village Shopping Center, features local meats and produce.

Monti’s is one of the rare restaurants that offer all their wines by the glass or 2 oz. tastings.

For evening entertainment, especially for blues music aficionados, head to the Last Day Saloon (www.last daysaloon.com) in Railroad Square for live entertainment, reasonable eats, and an off-beat atmosphere at this locals hangout. When we were in town, famous blues star Charlie Musselwhite was headlining. Be sure to check for a schedule of upcoming entertainment.

STAY The Hyatt Vineyard Creek Hotel and Spa (www. vineyardcreek.hyatt.com) is the premier large hotel of choice in

Santa Rosa. This four-star property boasts an expansive pool area, sculpture garden, first-class spa, and their central courtyard with a beautiful fire pit. The Mediterranean architecture and decor make this the go-to spot for any getaway.

An upscale lodging experience, the beautiful Vintners Inn (www. vintnersinn.com) is located on the outskirts of town. Luxurious February 2009

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Santa Rosa

wine country décor lends itself to accommodations that are quite comfortable, and the complimentary continental breakfasts are an added plus. This intimate, forty-four room property, surrounded by 92 acres of vineyards, exemplifies the wine country lifestyle. Be sure to take a walk or jog on their two-mile vineyard path.

For those who prefer historic hotels, the vintage La Rose Hotel (www.hotellarose.com), in the heart of Railroad Square and within easy walking distance of downtown, is a perfect pick. This charming property, built in 1903, has been updated with modern conveniences but maintains its historic ambience. The staff is exceptional and the rooms quite comfortable.

If you prefer a B&B, visit the Melitta Station Inn (www.melittastationinn.com), another historic property, opened around 1889. This former stagecoach stop’s rural setting outside the downtown area adds considerably to its charm. Walks around nearby Spring Lake, a Santa Rosa city park, and hikes into Annadel State Park, just across the road, are reasons enough to consider the Melitta. Owned and operated by a hospitable British couple, the inn features complimentary afternoon tea and homemade scones, and the English breakfast specialties are exceptional.

If you go: For more information about Santa Rosa lodging, dining, activities, and other attractions, visit www.visitsantarosa.com.

The Jacksons have been writing travel articles together for nearly twenty-five years and have traveled throughout California, the U.S., Canada, and many countries worldwide. Don is President Emeritus of the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association.

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Historic Railroad Square

February 2009

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RUSTIC ROMANCE LOVIN’ THE LAKE

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Lake Tahoe itself is not unlike the best kind of wedding ceremony. by Darren Elms

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EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING OFFICES San Joaquin Weddings 95 W. 11th Street, Suite 206 Tracy, CA 95376 Phone: (209) 833-9989 Fax: (209) 833-9979 Email: tony@sanjoaquinmagazine.com www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

San Joaquin Weddings magazine accepts freelance contributions, however, there is no guarantee that manuscripts or photography (solicited or unsolicited) will be returned. San Joaquin Weddings magazine assumes no responsibility or liability for claims made by advertisers contained herein. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of San Joaquin Weddings magazine or its parent company, Inside Magazines Publishing Company, or its owners. Inside Magazines is not responsible for typographical errors or omissions.

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Photography AC Images, Arturo Vera, Element Studios, Giselle Vincent, Lori Makabe, Mark Gamble

accounting Raman Singh

36 Haute Items for the Bride 40 You’ve got questions

We have the answers. by Rebecca Black

ContributING WRITERS Rebecca Black, Darren Elms, Andrea Stuart

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Heather Hilton, Jessica Krablin, Sadye Reish, Valerie Zoccoli

LOCAL BRIDE AND GROOMS

42 Cake Creations 46 wedding TIMELINE 52 Resource Directory

managing editor Jamie Menaker ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lauren LaBelle

WHAT’S INSIDE 8 12 19

Publisher | EDITOR Tony Zoccoli

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All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from this publisher. Photographs, graphics, and artwork are the property of Inside Magazines Publishing Company. © 2009 Inside Magazines

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WEDDING SEASON 2009

photo XSight Photography

lovin‘thelake Lake Tahoe itself is not unlike the best kind of wedding ceremony.

Where else in the country can two states unite so seamlessly while enjoying both a gorgeous location and countless reasons to celebrate? That’s the magic of Lake Tahoe, a perfect blend of recreation, romance, and remarkable beauty. >>

by Darren Elms

A special supplement to San Joaquin Magazine

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Tahoe...

From the quaint village charm of the North Shore to the high-energy revelry of the South Shore, this ideal destination-wedding locale has something for everyone. Not only does its convenient location to the Sacramento area make planning a snap, it’s the perfect place for out-of-towners to come together and play together throughout their visit. With casinos, lake activities, shopping, restaurants, skiing, and so much more at your fingertips, your wedding guests will never be without entertainment. San Joaquin Valley’s Tahoe-bound couples may find their biggest challenge is simply narrowing down a list of favorites.

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WEDDING SEASON 2009

Photos (top) Montbleu Casino; (Bottom, Left to Right) lake Tahoe visitors authority, xsight photography, tahoe visitors Authority

A special supplement to San Joaquin Magazine

GOOD TIMING It’s best to start with season when planning a Tahoe wedding. The area is one of the few places in the region that truly enjoys all four.

Snow bunnies will savor the incredible skiing and white-capped vistas that await a winter wedding. Summer lovers can take advantage of all the lake pleasures, from kayaking to parasailing. Fall and spring are just as lovely and host wonderful seasonal colors.

While weather is fairly predictable yearround, winter storms are frequent and can cause unwanted delays. All that snow may be good news to skiers, but for guests coming into the area, the prospect could be daunting.

Keep that in mind when making your arrangements.

On average, temperature can dip into the low teens in winter months and climb to the high 80s come peak summer time. If you’re in search of more moderate temperature, aim for June or September as your best bet.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION North or South? Woods or Lake? Casino or Lodge? Ski or Sail? Picking the perfect spot to tie the knot can be a difficult decision.

Luckily, the options are endless and exceptional.

Resorts throughout Tahoe always make great ceremony and reception sites no matter the time of year. With built-in amenities, including restaurants, accommodations, reception hall, and a trained wedding staff, it’s the all-in-one option to consider. Resorts like Heavenly in South Tahoe, The Resort at Squaw Valley, or Kirkwood, just outside the lake area, come ready with stunning outdoor vistas for exchanging vows, first-class rooms and dining options, not to mention a list of experienced vendors at your service.

There are plenty of singular, unique places to keep in mind as well.

Established in 1925, the Tahoe Yacht Club provides a historic setting with panoramic Sierra Nevada views and a shoreside location. Wine lovers might consider the Picchetti Winery, which recently opened in South Lake Tahoe. Couples with a wild streak should

look no further than the pleasures of Nevada’s South Tahoe casino scene. One of the best is Montbleu, host to a chapel, reception area, and staff of wedding coordinators. They also provide an extensive catering menu, including cake selections.

Tahoe is a great site for golfers, and the local greens make for a lovely wedding environment, as well. On the North Side, the Chateau at Incline Village captures Tahoe’s classic charm with its stunning lodge and magnificent views. Nice touches here include two huge stone fireplaces, and flexible reception area and dressing rooms for the bridal party. Down on the South Shore, Edgewood Tahoe hosts weddings of sixty guests or more on its amazing property and offers a huge catering menu.

If you’re having trouble deciding which lake location to choose, you can always go with more than one. (Wait, what did we just say?) Yes, it’s true. Setting sail on a private boat charter allows you and your crew to take advantage of several shores and enjoy a truly unique wedding experience. A vendor to consider is the Bleu Wave Wedding Yacht, taking a maximum of forty-nine passengers anywhere from Emerald Bay to Cave Rock to Incline. They even offer a Winter Wedding Cruise to a snowy mountain backdrop—be sure to bundle up.

IT’S IN THE DETAILS You’ve finally decided on your dream Tahoe venue, now it’s time to focus on those special touches. One of the most breathtaking places in the world, Tahoe certainly knows more than a few ways to turn on the charm.

First, let’s talk transportation, because goodness knows there’s plenty to choose from here. How about roaring into the reception on a vintage motorboat? Arriving by ski gondola also could make an interesting conversation piece at 10,000 feet. Saying “I do” in winter?

How about a delightfully classy sleigh ride? In the business for thirty years, the Borges Family will make sure you arrive to your reception with an elegant gallop. They also provide horse and carriage service throughout the year, as does Lake Tahoe Horse and Carriage. Should you end up going the traditional route, you should have no trouble finding a limo service in the area. But if you want to do it in style, make a dramatic entrance courtesy of The Ambassador’s vintage Rolls-Royce limos.

As a popular wedding destination yearround, Tahoe is always brimming with san joaquin Weddings

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top-notch services. Montbleu provides bridal spa packages that include everything from consultation to makeup and updo. The Stillwater Spa at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe promotes wellness through the power of nature. Their signature services are inspired by the classic elements—air, water, earth, and fire—and include treats like the Orange Blossom Massage and High-Altitude Hydration facial.

Newlyweds shouldn’t miss the Couples Fireside Romance, featuring side-by-side treatments in an intimate fireplace suite.

There are several day spas in the area ready to pamper you and your guests. One of our personal favorites is Trilogy Spa in Squaw Valley. Some of their tempting offerings include the DRENCH Cascading Vichy Rainbar Lehua Honey Escape and the SOAK Moana Plunge Tub Maile Floral Melt. It’s definitely a taste of the tropics in a lovely alpine setting. A Message for All Seasons in South Lake Tahoe provides everything from massages to body treatments and a few couples packages to boot. Speaking of couples, check out Elements Spa and their Decadent Package, with chocolate paraffin foot dip, and a champagne and strawberry shea butter massage.

GETTING HITCHED Because Lake Tahoe straddles two states, it’s important to follow the correct procedure depending on your final location. Here’s some helpful information to get you started.

In both California and Nevada, no blood test is required, and the legal marrying age is 18 years or older.

In California, a marriage license can be obtained three ways: - If a resident, with a California license - You may obtain a license through the El Dorado County Clerk’s Office in South Lake Tahoe - You may obtain a California Confidential Marriage license issued by a Notary In Nevada, a minister is required to perform a wedding ceremony and sign a wedding license.

quality vendors. We found two wonderful resources for these professionals online: North Lake Tahoe Wedding and Honeymoon Association at www.northtahoeweddings.com, and for the South, visit www.tahoeweddings.org. Keep in mind too, that many vendors from the Sacramento area also service Lake Tahoe.

RELAX, YOU DESERVE IT After all your hard work, it’s time to put your feet up and take a break. Luckily, Tahoe is home to some amazing day spas to help you unwind and rejuvenate. These venues make the perfect prewedding getaway or a wonderful post-wedding chill out after the company has departed.

Most of the big resorts offer luxurious in-house spas with

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san joaquin Weddings

Most chapels will offer a non-denominational minister.

A marriage license can be obtained seven days a week at the Douglas County Lake Tahoe Administration Building in Stateline. Denominational churches and temples are also available on both North and South Shores. If choosing a ceremony site first, consider the distance from this location to your reception. With one main road that travels around the circumference of the lake, getting from here to there may be a challenge.

Whether it be on land, lake, or lift, exchanging vows in Tahoe promises to be an unforgettable experience. Wonderfully convenient and extremely “wedding-friendly,” it also promises to be one of the easier destination receptions to plan. How lucky we are to have all that fun and excitement at our back door. Enjoy! SJ WEDDINGs

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real

weddings

Jimmy & Kelsey

Rankin

Cathedral of the Annunciation Stockton Kelsey and Jimmy met in 1999 while attending Sacramento State, and for the next five years, shared a wonderful friendship.

However, on New Year’s Eve 2003, an innocent midnight kiss began an entire new chapter in their lives.

After a few years of dating, Jimmy knew it was the right time to ask Kelsey to be his wife. For thirteen months, he told only two people, his mother and Dan Rankin of Rankin Jewelers. After asking Kelsey’s close-knit family for their blessing, the stage was set for a proposal to remember. On Valentine’s Day, Kelsey thought that a vacation of wine tasting in Sonoma and an evening at the Casa Madrona Hotel in Sausalito was another typical romantic getaway.

The hotel balcony there was the ideal setting for the perfect proposal. With Tiburon Island in front of them, the San Francisco Bay to the right, and the sun setting in the sky, Jimmy got down on one knee and asked “Will you marry me?” She said, “YES!” Minutes later—Jimmy had secretly booked rooms for their families to join the celebration—after gathering herself, Kelsey turned around, and the entire family was standing behind them.

An evening they will never forget!

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WEDDING SEASON 2009

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jimmy & Kelsey’s Wedding resources Wedding Ceremony Cathedral of the Annunciation, Stockton

Wedding Photography Arturo Vera Photography (888) 542-2775 www.arturovera.com

Wedding Reception Stockton Golf and Country Club Wedding Cake Kat’s Cakes, Stockton (209) 466-2253 Entertainment ParTime Band Bride and Groom’s Jewelry Rankin Jewelers, Stockton (209) 477-1055 Flowers Sweet Peas Floral Design, Stockton (209) 472-9284 Bridal Attire - Bride A Touch of Alex Bridal Boutique, Livermore Bridesmaids Bella Donna Town & Country, Sacramento A special supplement to San Joaquin Magazine

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mICHAel& jACQuelINe

Ratto

May 31, 2008 Cathedral of the Annunciation Stockton After a whirlwind relationship, Michael and Jacqueline united in holy matrimony on May 31, 2008 at Cathedral of the Annunciation in Stockton, California. Following the ceremony, family and friends gathered at Elkhorn Country Club to continue the celebration with a lovely reception coordinated by Eventfull Parties. As the reflection of candlelights glimmered from the large vases filled with orchids (Occasions), guests watched memories of “The Rattos’” childhood and courtship on a big screen provided by G-Force, then danced the night away to music mixed by Morning Star Entertainment. Guests ended the evening with flavored coffee and mouth-savoring biscotti from Bimba’s. Thanks to Giselle Vincent Photography and Williamson Productions, the couple will enjoy the wonderful memories of their wedding day forever. Eventfull Parties created a wedding that was “Simply Over the Top.” Michael is a third generation farmer who grows an array of crops including asparagus, tomatoes, almonds, and corn on Roberts Island. Jacqueline is the public information officer for San Joaquin County Office of Education. Today, the Rattos are a happily married couple living in a quaint farmhouse on “The Island.”

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Wedding season 2009

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michael & jacqueline’s Wedding resources Wedding Ceremony Cathedral of the Annunciation, Stockton

Wedding Photography

Giselle Vincent Photography (209) 957-2181 www.gisellevincent.com Wedding Reception Elkhorn Country Club, Stockton Audio/Visual Presentation G-Force Productions, Stockton Entertainment Morning Star Entertainment, Stockton Wedding Planners Eventfull Parties, Stockton Flowers Occasions, Stockton

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Brooke & Kenny

Blakeslee October 5, 2008 The River Mill French Camp

Enchanting is the best way to describe the wedding of Brooke and Kenny Blakeslee.

Held at The River Mill in French Camp, Brooke and Kenny decided on the historic location due to its rustic charm and accents of illuminating white lights and candles; although there was also an element of practicality to their interest in the allinclusive facility.

“The River Mill gave us great ideas, plus they organized the whole day,” says Brooke.

The motto for their wedding was to remain calm. Brooke and Kenny began their ode to serenity by indulging in a couples massage a few days before the wedding.

Brooke says it was a special way for them to bond with one another while warding off those wedding day heebie-jeebies.

“My only concern was not falling as I walked down the aisle,” she chuckles.

“You’re less likely to fall if you’re not so stressed out.”

As it turns out, Brooke had little to worry about. After a poised, teary-eyed walk down the aisle, Brooke joined her new hubby and their guests at the reception where the couple danced to “There’s Only One You,” written and performed by Kenny’s friend, Allen Lopez. Brooke also took to the floor with her father to Tim McGraw’s song, “My Little Girl.”

“Cherish every second. It’s gone in the blink of an eye,” says Brooke.

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WEDDING SEASON 2009

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Kenny & brooke’s Wedding resources Wedding Ceremony The River Mill, French Camp

Wedding Photography Lori Makabe (707) 374-5272 www.lorimakabe.com Wedding Reception The River Mill Entertainment Elite Entertainment, Stockton Bride and Groom’s Jewelry Rankin Jewelers, Stockton (209) 477-1055 Bridal Attire - Bride David’s Bridal, Modesto Bridesmaids David’s Bridal, Modesto Couples Massage Massage Envy, Tracy

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Junior & Janelle

Gomez

July 26, 2008 Morris Chapel, University of the Pacific Stockton When Janelle and Junior met three and a half years ago, Janelle had no idea she was meeting her future husband.

“I made him work for it,” Janelle giggles.

“We didn’t start dating until eight months after we met.”

Ultimately though, Janelle fell in love with Junior’s ability to make every day feel like a new day. The day he proposed was no exception.

In an elaborate scheme to thwart Janelle’s suspicion of a proposal, Junior plotted to take her out for a dinner and a show. Later that evening, when they arrived at a friend’s birthday party, Junior dropped to one knee in front of the guests and asked Janelle to marry him. Janelle immediately broke into laughter and lectured her friends for their involvement in the evening’s surprise.

“Junior stayed on one knee until I finally went back to him and said yes,” chuckles Janelle.

The couple married one year later at Morris Chapel in Stockton. The reception was held at the Stockton Scottish Rite Masonic Center, and the day went off without a hitch. Her biggest worry—that there wouldn’t be enough food—proved insignificant; as Janelle reports that “nobody had to share a plate.”

—Andrea Stuart

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WEDDING SEASON 2009

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junior & janelle’s Wedding resources Wedding Ceremony Morris Chapel, University of the Pacific Stockton

Wedding Photography

Mark Gamble (209) 952-2769 www.markgamblephotographer. photoreflect.com Videographer Creative Video Productions, Stockton Wedding Reception Scottish Rite Masonic Center, Stockton Wedding Cake Kat’s Cakes, Stockton (209) 466-2253 Entertainment Jono Entertainment, Stockton Flowers Stockton Flower Market

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CASSIdy& mAry

Jakovickas October 4, 2008 St. Stanislaus Catholic Church Modesto For those who question fate, Mary and Cassidy’s story will inspire belief.

About six years ago, Mary Conover spent a semester abroad in New Zealand. At that time, Cassidy Jakovickas was also in New Zealand. In 2006, Cassidy had moved to Fresno from Monterey to attend college.

Living there simultaneously for a while, Mary later moved to San Louis Obispo.

Unbeknownst to either person, this game of cat and mouse was destiny’s elaborate plan to bring them together.

“Cassidy and I had been chasing each other for years, even living in the same city, yet we didn’t meet until I moved to San Louis Obispo. God must have a good sense of humor,” Mary chuckles.

The couple’s serendipitous journey culminated in the reciting of vows at Saint Stanislaus Catholic Church, where generations of Mary’s family had also wed.

The reception took place on Mary’s family’s cattle ranch, Mates Ranch, which turned into a lover’s utopia that evening, hosting a romantic garden dinner with dancing in the “Party Barn” afterwards.

“We even found a way to tastefully infuse my favorite colors—lime green, bright red, and brown—into the reception, which no one thought was possible, but Joan Dompe at Classic Party Rentals made it happen,” Mary laughs. Mary says that everything works out if you just have faith.

—Andrea Stuart

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Wedding season 2009

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Cassidy & mary’s Wedding resources Wedding Ceremony Saint Stanislaus Catholic Church, Modesto

Wedding Photography AC Images Photography (209) 521-6100 www.acimagesphoto.com

Wedding Reception Stockton Golf and Country Club Entertainment TNT Productions, Modesto Wedding Cake Suzy Grover of Tiers for Two, Modesto Caterer Copper Spur, Modesto Bridal Attire - Bride Miosa Couture, Modesto Groom’s Attire Rossini’s Formal Wear, Modesto

A special supplement to San Joaquin Magazine

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real

weddings

Mark & Melissa

M assa

January 2, 2009 Wine and Roses Lodi Victor Borge once said that laughter is the shortest distance between two people. This couldn’t be truer for Melissa and Mark who became acquainted over MySpace.com thanks to a mutual friend. One month after their first online encounter, they met faceto-face in San Francisco, where they went dancing and fell head-over-heels for one another.

“We kissed for the first time that night.

I fell in love with Mark’s sense of humor,” Melissa recalls.

Mark put a romantic spin on one funny evening when Melissa visited after work.

In traditional fashion, Mark’s dog, Biggie, performed a greeting dance for Melissa, except this time he had something around his neck. The “something” was a ring box.

Biggie was a conspirator in Mark’s marriage proposal. After Melissa’s enthusiastic acceptance, Mark’s brother flew down the stairs from where he had secretly videotaped the moment.

Melissa and Mark married at Wine and Roses in Lodi, two days short of the anniversary of their first kiss. Family and friends attended from around the world, including Melissa’s maid of honor who flew in from New Zealand. For those who were unable to attend the wedding, the couple is sending videos of appreciation.

“We couldn’t think of a more exciting way to ring in the New Year,” Melissa said.

—Andrea Stuart

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WEDDING SEASON 2009

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mark and melissa’s Wedding resources Wedding Ceremony Wine and Roses, Lodi (209) 334-6988

Wedding Photography

Sean Messick, Element Studios (209) 334-5527 www.elementstudiosusa.com Videography Rod Atwood, Element Studios Wedding Reception Wine and Roses, Lodi Entertainment Elite DJs, Stockton Dance Lessons Mark’s Father Flowers Chris of The Big Thing, Sacramento Bridal Attire - Bride Mira Bridal Couture, Modesto Manicure and Pedicures Finishing Touch Nail Spa, Lodi

A special supplement to San Joaquin Magazine

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wedding haute items

1

1

Dance the night away in Pelle Moda shoes in Colleen and Nemo styles, available at Dennis Shea’s Shoes, Stockton, www.lincolncentershops.com

2

2

Create invites complete with an animated version of yourself, available at www.poseprints.com

3

3

Maintain that lovely glow throughout your big day with a bridal makeup kit from E.L.F. cosmetics, available at www.elf.com

4

4

Be unique with locally made and designed aisle runners and designer linens. Available from Anima, www.shopanima.com

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5

Start collecting charming Pandora charms to mark your romantic milestones, available at Carats, Stockton, www.caratsjewelry.com

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Give your bridesmaid besties these adorable Jessie Steele aprons, available at Beyond Pots and Pans, Stockton, www.beyondpotsandpans.com

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Expect the best, but prepare for the worst with this Wedding Day Survival Kit complete with deodorant, doublesided tape, and much more, available at Ocean Avenue Bed and Bath, Stockton, www.lincolncentershops.com

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Stick with the bridal theme through and through with these embroidered undies, available at Ocean Avenue Bed and Bath, Stockton, www.lincolncentershops.com

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Toast to your lives together with Sparkling Duet sparkling white wine, available at Michael-David Winery, Lodi, www.lodivineyards.com

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Stay white long into the night with Cosa Bella lingerie, available at Theadora Fine Lingerie, Stockton, www.lincolncentershops.com

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Wedding season 2009

A special supplement to San Joaquin Magazine

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san joaquin Weddings

You’ve Got QUESTIONS? We’ve Got Answers

by Rebecca Black

We know that planning a wedding is stressful enough— fretting over etiquette issues could put you over the edge. To help, we’ve enlisted the help of etiquette expert Rebecca Black to help with your most pressing (not to mention tricky) etiquette questions.

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SHOW ME THE MONEY

Q. Is it still customary for the bride's parents to pay for everything?

A. It hasn’t been the bride’s parents’ obligation in years. In fact, the couple is now financially responsible for their wedding. So, it is best to wait for parents to offer contributions. Asking either set of parents places them in an awkward position.

NO GIFT

Q. If someone comes to your wedding, but does not bring a gift, should you still send them a thank you card?

A. No. You are only obligated to handwrite thank you notes for those who give you gifts. Please send these as soon as you receive your gifts— snail mail, not email.

PEACEFUL RECEPTION SEATING

Q. I'm working on my seating chart right now, and I'm having trouble figuring out who sits with whom at the reception. What happens if there are factions of the family that don't like each other—how do you decide where to sit people so there aren't fireworks?

A. It is refreshing to hear from someone who wants to create a welcoming atmosphere. When

WEDDING SEASON 2009

we invite guests, we are a host and we should want our guests to be comfortable. It is best to seat our guests with those with whom they are comfortable. To this end, all parents don’t need to sit together, and could be seated with friends or other family members with whom they are close. The same is true with all your guests.

WHAT'S IN A NAME?

Q. When I get married this fall, I don't plan on taking my fiancĂŠ's surname. My fiancĂŠ completely supports my decision, but I'm getting a lot of criticism for this, from my family and his family. What's the best way to handle this?

A. More and more women are choosing this option and it is entirely appropriate, so you are in good company.

Perhaps it might be best for you two to speak to your parents separately so they will, hopefully, observe his complete support of your decision and your reasons for it.

Because this is still viewed as non-traditional by some, it can be difficult for others to understand.

OUR HOUSEHOLD NAMES

Q. And, since I'm not taking my fiancĂŠ's surname, after we get married, what's the best way to address our thank you notes and what do we call our household?

A. There are a number of ways you can address yourselves.

One of the most common is: Mr. and Mrs. John Brown and Alice Smith. Mr. John Brown and Ms. Alice Smith (Brown) is another option, but could be deceptive considering that you are not assuming the name “Brown.�

But it may be less confusing for your guests. Of course, you could always use the informal: John and Alice. Your household could be addressed with his name first and your name second (The Brown-Smiths or The BrownSmith Family), although there are no clear rules on whose name should be listed first.

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TOO MANY GUESTS

Q. My invitation was addressed to my friend and a guest, but they've returned the response card with four people, rather than just the two. What's the best way to handle this?

A. Unfortunately this is becoming more and more common due to the fact that so many do not know how to be good guests. It is also unfortunate that the only way to deal with it is to contact them and verbally inform them that only those listed on the invitation are invited. sj WEDDinGs

A special supplement to San Joaquin Magazine

Award­Winning

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san joaquin Weddings

43

CREATIVE

photo DR APER PHOTOGR APHY

Indulgence

44

san joaquin Weddings

WEDDING SEASON 2009

Cakes available at

A special supplement to San Joaquin Magazine

Kat’s Cakes

san joaquin Weddings

45

photo BRIGGS PHOTOGR APHY

photo BRIGGS PHOTOGR APHY

photo CAMER A SCIENCE PHOTOGR APHY

photo CAMER A SCIENCE PHOTOGR APHY

Cakes available at

46

san joaquin Weddings

Kat’s Cakes

WEDDING SEASON 2009

photo BRIGGS PHOTOGR APHY

photo CAMER A SCIENCE PHOTOGR APHY

photo PREVOST PHOTOGR APHY

photo K AT’S CAK ES

salon

cut and style • color • extensions

facials • body • massage • waxing • hand and foot sauna and hydro mud baths • spa packages • Infrared

Salon & Spa

BRIDEZILLA PACKAGE 1 hour facial & 1 hour massage followed by a 15 minute Infra Red Dry Sauna Treatment, Luxury Champagne Toes Spa Pedicure followed by a Hair Wash & Style along with a Makeup application & customized eyelash extensions. Finish by sipping one of our signature Mimosas with a parfait.

nd your balance with…

GOING TO THE CHAPEL 20min Hydro Chromo Therapy Bath & a 30min Upper Body Massage, customized Updo, Eyelash touch up, Makeup Application & nails polished for your special day! $195.00

sauna

AVEDA PURE RELAXATION Hot Stone & Lavender Foot Bath. Mimosa drink along with an arm & hand massage with Aveda’s Essential Oils.

Finishing with foot and leg massage. $55.00

MAN OF THE HOUR Look your best with a Man-icure, a haircut & style with a relaxing scalp massage to get you ready for that special day! $53.00

hakra Clearing Massage

mbining Swedish massage, deep tissue assage, reflexology, pressure points, hot stone acement & chakra clearing $370.00 $90 for the month of July

Green Science Facial

inically proven to perform in 4 weeks, using ganic argan oil and cactus formula helps to oisturize skin and smooth fine lines A special supplement to San Joaquin Magazine

1360 E. Yosemite Ave. Manteca, CA 95337

209.823.7400 san joaquin Weddings

47

as soon as you’re engaged: Organize, Organize, Organize!

Set budget Discuss time frame and dates Determine wedding basics: formal vs. informal, indoor vs. outdoor, day vs. night, in - town vs. destination

timeline

9-12 MONTHS

48

DATE: ..........................

Announce engagement and/or send out save the date cards Set the date Choose colors Research the marriage license Book venues Research vendors or hire a planner Arrange officiant Invite attendants Draft guest list Register Shop for gown Beauty Boost: Begin fitness regime

6-9 MONTHS DATE: ..........................

Invitations/stationery Book accommodations for out-of-town guests Order cake Sign vendor contracts/make deposits Order gown and choose additional accessories Choose bridesmaids' attire Schedule time off from work Book honeymoon arrangements Mail thank you notes as you receive gifts Set up engagement photo session Begin dance lessons Beauty Boost: Start experimenting with hair and makeup – figure out now the look you want!

san joaquin Weddings

6 MONTHS DATE:...........................

Schedule rehearsal and rehearsal dinner Book wedding night hotel Arrange day-of transportation Finalize guest list Order and/or start making favors Shop for ceremony/reception accessories (cake knife, ring pillows, etc.)

Secure passports, visas, shots, if necessary Beauty Boost: Begin monthly facials and manicures/pedicures

4 MONTHS DATE:...........................

Consult attorney for changes to insurance, wills, accounts, and, if you choose, a prenuptial agreement Gather other necessary paperwork such as name change, change of address, and blood tests, if required Shop for and order wedding bands Reserve rental items Choose groom and groomsmen attire Shop for attendants’ gifts Beauty boost: Book wedding day appointments

2 MONTHS DATE: ..........................

Arrange wedding-weekend activities Mail invitations Tasting with caterer, finalize menu Music for ceremony and reception List of must-take photos for photographer Confirm bridesmaids' attire Update registry Pay deposits for honeymoon Beauty Boost: See dentist for pre-wedding cleaning

Wedding season 2009

1 MONTH DATE:...........................

Rehearsal dinner invites Send day-after invites, if necessary Assign ceremony/reception responsibilities Confirm details with vendors Write or select vows Arrange marriage license Final dress fitting, with all accessories Arrange ushers and/or attendants to distribute programs at ceremony (if you have them) Beauty Boost: Hair/makeup trial run; de-stress with a shower yourself spa day

2 WEEKS DATE: ..........................

Dinner seating chart/place cards Contact guests who haven’t responded Confirm honeymoon arrangements; share itinerary with family Arrange house and/or pet sitter Gift/welcome baskets for out-of-towners Beauty Boost: Final facial before big day; hair cut and color—don’t do anything drastic. If you plan on making a drastic change, do so at least three months prior to wedding.

1 WEEK DATE:...........................

Arrange for dress pick up/delivery Break in shoes Final head count to caterer Distribute contact list/directions Prepare tip/payment envelopes for vendors; arrange for someone you trust to distribute these the day of the event Recruit someone to mail marriage announcements, if you’re sending Get out the luggage and pack!

Beauty Boost: Get waxed; begin teeth whitening (consult with dentist, and don’t overdo it) A special supplement to San Joaquin Magazine

DAY BEFORE DATE:........................

Ask trusted friend/ family member to bring marriage license Deliver welcome baskets Give rings to best man Distribute attendant gifts Rehearse Beauty Boost: Get a manicure and pedicure

THE BIG DAY DATE:...............

Eat! Have luggage delivered to hotel Remember to switch engagement ring to right hand Relax and enjoy the day!

Beauty Boost: Get pampered by hair and makeup team

POST HONEYMOON Send thank-yous Return gifts, if necessary Make sure vendor bills are paid Order wedding photos Develop disposable cameras Have gown dry-cleaned and preserved, or donate dress, or have a "trash the dress" photo shoot

live happily ever after... san joaquin Weddings

49

RUMORS Production Company

Can’t Decide Between a D.J. or a Live Band?

Why Not Have Both?

We Can Provide Both Services For One Low Price!

Full Service Entertainment Company Live Band/Music D.J. Services Wedding Planning

Jenna

Jon

209.640.8000 • 209.629.4897

rumorsproductioncompany.com

T

o plan the perfect day, you need the perfect caterer...

• One stop, full-service professional planning, so you and your guests can enjoy your special day!

• Wonderful food, served or buffet style with a wide selection from our catering menu - at prices you can afford.

1563 E. Fremont St.

209.948.6609 www.angelinas.com

50

san joaquin Weddings

WEDDING SEASON 2009

W

Why not have your bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, wedding or all three at Platinum?

• Platinum offers all the amenities to make your event a huge success • We provide Platinum service at affordable prices •

Amenities:

Catering kitchen access, table linens, china, flatware, and crystal are all included in your party room rental.

• Also included is your coffee, tea, seasonal beverages and water.

&

STOCKTON LOAN JEWELRY

PLATINUM Banquet and Conference Facility

ALL TRANSACTIONS ARE CONFIDENTIAL CALL IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT ALWAYS NEW PRODUCTS

l

WE BUY, SELL AND LOAN

209-954-9128 l 4227 PACIFIC AVENUE STOCKTON CA 95207 OPEN

We’re located on the 3rd Floor of Tracy’s historic Opera House 902 Central Avenue

7 DAYS A WEEK MONDAY-SATURDAY. 10AM-6PM, SUNDAY 11AM-4PM

For more information

call: 209.835.2244.

The Platinum Team: Pamella, Alan, Patricia and Jack

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Crushed. Block. Bagged. Delivery.

Crushed. Block. Bagged. Delivery.

Bagged & block ice

There are still plenty of openings to book your 2009 wedding at Morris Chapel.

for caterers, special events, restaurants

For more information and a tour, Call 209.946.2538 3601 Pacific Avenue

r

Stockton, California 95211

A special supplement to San Joaquin Magazine

When Planning the Ultimate Party

and home use 300 LB Block Ice for carving tel 209.943.9422

www.diamondiceinc.com

tel 209.943.9422

www.diamondiceinc.com san joaquin Weddings

51

the

WOMAN’S

T

CLUB of Lodi

One of the beautiful older buildings of Lodi

T

ouch

of france

Wedding Receptions

& Other Special Events

Full Kitchen and Bar Facilities Available Seating for 200

If you like our crepes you’ll love our extensive on or off site catering menu 3 elegant private rooms, perfect for any size gathering or special occasion

Historical Landmark

w c

Phone inquiries to event coordinator

Phone: 209.946.9494

368.4310

2041 Pacific Avenue Stockton, California 95204

325 W. Pine St., Lodi

100 YEARS

(Located on the Miracle Mile)

B A R C O M P A N Y

Commercial Exchange Club

Private Banquet Facilities Indoor & Outdoor Ceremony Locations

52

san joaquin Weddings

209.466.0184 or 209.946.0246 2305 W. Washington Street Stockton, CA 95203

S A L E S

Let us worry about this…

A L L

So you can enjoy this…

& R E N T A L S

F O R

Bar Company Sales & Rentals 450 E. 10th Street, Suite C Tracy, CA 95376 www.barcompany.com 209 – 839 – 8645 jkirby@barcompany.com

O F Y O U R R E N T A L N E E D S

Wedding season 2009

P a c k a g e s

l

M i c r o - d e r m

l

L i g h t

T h e r a p y

l

M a s s a g e

l

F a c i a l s

Hair

Permanent Makeup

S p a

Extensions l

l Lash Extensions

On and off site services available for brides and their wedding parties

l

l

Complimentary service for brides who book their entire bridal party .BLFVQ t -BTI &YUFOTJPOT t .BOJDVSFT

Call for details

Bodywraps

l

Ear-candling

A special supplement to San Joaquin Magazine

l

Japanese

Straightening

l

Waxing

l

Cuts

209.836.1505

1010 Central Ave. Tracy

Precise

Pedicures

Color

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be caught off guard on your special day - let us help you pre-plan your beauty needs

Expert

Experience Our Big City Style and Small Town Charm

Manicures

san joaquin Weddings

53

Wedding

Directory

Bridal Apparel and Tuxedos Bella’s Bridal Shop

Ocean Avenue Bed and Bath

Stockton, (209) 956-2500 www.lincolncentershops.com

Stockton, (209) 464-2735 www.bellasbridalshop.com

Cakes

Bliss Bridal Salon

Burgess Bakery Company

Stockton, (209) 437-9200

Dillard’s

Manteca, (209) 599-9359 www.burgessbaking.com

Stockton, (209) 477-1230 www.dillards.com

College Bakery

The Elizabeth

Creative Cakery

Stockton, (209) 957-7474

Lodi, (209) 369-9046 www.theelizabethbridal.com

Stockton, (209) 473-4577

Formal Connection

Stockton, (209) 466-CAKE (2253) www.katscakes.com

Stockton, (209) 477-2442 Manteca, (209) 239-5511 www.formalconnection.com

Gonzalez Bridal Boutique Lodi, (209) 369-5806 www.cgbridal.com

Maxine’s Bridal

Stockton, (209) 463-4041 www.maxinesbridal.com

Mira Bridal Couture

Modesto, (209) 338-9333 www.mirabridal.com

Richard’s Menswear Tracy, (209) 835-4684 www.richardsmw.com

Theadora Fine Lingerie Stockton, (209) 474-7407

Tracy Bridal and Alteration

Tracy, (209) 832-0249 www.tracybridalandalteration.com

Tuxedos of Lodi

Lodi, (209) 339-8897

Bridal Registry/Gifts Anjana’s Hallmark Shop Stockton, (209) 473-9800

Beyond Pots & Pans

Stockton, (209) 464-2735 www.beyondpotsandpans.com

Dillard’s

Stockton, (209) 477-1230 www.dillards.com

54

san joaquin Weddings

Kat’s Cakes

Rancho San Miguel Markets

Lodi, (209) 367-9900 Stockton, (209) 939-9790

Specialty Cakes

Lodi, (209) 333-1641 www.specialtycakeslodi.com

Catering Angelina’s

Stockton, (209) 948-6609 www.angelinas.com

Chez Shari’s

Manteca, (209) 825-8524 www.chezshari.com

Commercial Exchange Club

Stockton, (209) 946-0246

Le Bistro

Stockton, (209) 957-0536 www.lebistrostockton.com

Papapavlo’s Mediterranean Bistro and Bar Stockton, (209) 477-6133 www.papapavlos.com

The Reata

Oakdale, (209) 845-9855 www.thereataoakdale.com

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Manteca, (209) 823-6500 www.rmcf.com

Stockton Joe’s

J & S Flowers

Taste of Brittany

The Little Flower Shop

Coordinators

Lodi Flower Shop

Black and White Enchantments

Main Street Floral

Lodi, (209) 365-1043 www.stocktonjoes.com

Stockton, (209) 946-9494 www.tasteofbrittany.com

(209) 513-8383

www.blackandwhiteenchantments.com

Lynne Lechich

Manteca, (209) 825-2202 www.jandsflowers.net

Tracy, (209) 835-1534 www.flowersintracy.com

Lodi, (209) 369-4709

Ripon, (209) 599-6322

Manteca Floral

(209) 951-9664

Manteca, (209) 823-6217 www.mantecafloral.com

Wish Wedding and Events

Sweet Peas Floral Design

Entertainment

Village Flowers and Gifts

Stockton, (209) 608-0583 www.wishweddings.com

Elegance Harp and Flute (209) 477-5001

Elite Entertainment

Stockton, (209) 472-9284 www.spfloraldesigns.com

Lodi, (209) 333-3377 www.villageflowersandgiftslodi.com

Woodbridge Florist Lodi, (209) 333-0223

Stockton, (209) 952-3548 www.elitedj4u.com

Hair/Pampering

Rumors Production Company

Hair2Dye4 by Rhea Cowdry

Tracy, (209) 629-4897 www.rumorsproductioncompany.com XMN DJ Service (209) 406-7489 www.xmndjs.com

Tracy, (209) 470-0706

Indulgence Salon

Stockton, (209) 478-5859

Mimosa Spa Salon

Florists

Manteca, (209) 823-7400 www.mimosaspasalon.com

San Francisco Floral

Reflections Salon and Spa

Stockton, (209) 942-0373 www.stocktonsbestflowers.com

Blossoms by Lisa

Stockton, (209) 629-1825 www.blossomsbylisa.wordpress.com

Cazale’s Flower Shop

Stockton, (209) 466-7971 www.cazalesflowershop.com

Fiore Floral & Gifts

Linden, (209) 887-2019

The Flower Cart

Lodi, (209) 333-2663 www.theflowercartlodi.com

Flower Pavillion

Stockton, (209) 472-8700 www.reflectionssalonspa.com

Versailles Salon and Day Spa

Tracy, (209) 836-1505

Invitations In Good Company

Stockton, (209) 951-5781

Island Paperie

(800) 466-1223 www.islandpaperie.com

Scrapbook Dreams

Stockton, (209) 477-2200 ww.myscrapbookdreams.com

Tracy, (209) 836-3751 www.flowerpavillion.com

WEDDING SEASON 2009

NE

W

LO

CA

be

inspired

TIO

N!

and be

Ocean Avenue has

entertained

FUN &

unique gifts for the

Bridal Event Productions Presents:

bride to be: ďŹ ne lingerie

Lodiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 10th Annual

bridal event

bachelorette

Sunday, March 15, 2009

party favors shower gifts

Lodi Grape Festival Grounds

Registration begins at 1:00pm

GRAND PRIZE ~ Date Night Getaway!

hostess gifts bridal

Brides pre-register online and be entered in the drawing for the Date Night Getaway!

registry

Prize package includes:

Two nights stay at Hampton Inn or Holiday Inn Express Hotel Round trip limo transportation, compliments of Moonlight Limousine Romantic dinner for two at Lodi Feed and Fuel More GRAND PRIZE SPONSORS and thousands of dollars of fantastic prizes provided by participating merchants

Find everything you need to plan your special day

309 Lincoln Center â&#x20AC;˘ Stockton (209) 956-2500 www.shopoceanavenue.com

For more information and discount admission tickets:

www.bridalevents.info â&#x20AC;˘ (209) 475-9161

Lighting accents for indoor and outdoor weddings, including tents and landscaping.

DYNASTY EVENT DESIGNS & RENTALS

Turn an

ordinary

wedding into an

extraordinary one with unique lighting accents by K & T Lights.

We can also bring in lighted topiaries for added

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ambiance on your special day.

Our service includes all lights, installation & take down.

EVENTS We offer Onsite Hostess/Event Planning, Speciality Linen, Chair Covers, Background Drapes, Rental Props, Floral Bouquets, Catering Supplies, Custom Floral Arrangements and more!

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A special supplement to San Joaquin Magazine

& KT Lights

209.957.0829 â&#x20AC;˘ www.KandTlights.com Fully insured and licensed

san joaquin Weddings

55

Wedding

Directory

Invitations Valerie Invitations

Tracy, (209) 221-0031

Signature Videography (DVD Invitations) Stockton, (209) 957-4003

Jewelers John Borelli Jewelers Lodi, (209) 368-5757

Gary J. Long Jewelers Stockton, (209) 477-6881 www.gjlongjewelers.com

Party Supplies/Décor American Event Rentals

Stockton, (209) 477-4404 www.americaneventrentals.com

Arthur’s Party World

Stockton, (209) 952-2971

Bar Company Sales Tracy, (209) 839-8645 www.barcompany.com

Diamond Ice

Draper Photography

Stockton, (209) 341-0919 www.draperphotography.com

Element Studios

Venues

Exclusive Photography

Lodi, (209) 482-8725 www.bareranchlodi.com

(209) 992-7659 www.exclusivephotography.net

Giselle Vincent Photography Stockton, (209) 957-2181 www.gisellevincent.com

Jeremy Gartin Photography (209) 298-5818 www.gartinphotography.com

Lori Makabe Photography Rio Vista, (707) 374-5272 www.lorimakabe.com

Mark Gamble Photography Stockton, (209) 952-2769

Mary Gillespie Photography (209) 304-0733 www.marygphotography.com

Transportation Central Valley Limousine

Dynasty Event Designs and Rentals

A Luxury Limousine Service

Tracy, (209) 830-1555

Lathrop, (209) 482-8993 www.dynastyevents.net

Stockton, (209) 466-1212

K and T Lights

Manteca, (209) 824-2323

Margarita Machine Rental (209) 678-2184 www.margarita-madness.com

Photography AC Images

Stockton, (209) 957-4003 www.sig-vid.com

Lodi, (209) 334-5527 www.elementstudiosusa.com

Stockton, (209) 943-9422 www.diamondiceinc.com

Stockton, (209) 957-0829 www.kandtlights.com

Signature Videography Inc.

Moonlight Limousine

Peppermint Creek Carriage Stockton, (209) 533-2599

Prestige Limousines

Stockton, (209) 478-9500 www.prestigelimos.com

Two Knights Limousine Tracy, (209) 833-0110

Merlot

Lodi, (209) 368-5222 www.themerlot.info

Morris Chapel, UOP

Stockton, (209) 946-2538 www.morrischapel.com

Bare Ranch

Brookside Country Club

Oak Farm Vineyards

Lodi, (209) 365-6566 www.oakfarmvineyards.com

Platinum

Stockton, (209) 444-4717 www.brooksidegolf.net

Tracy, (209) 835-2244

Cellar Door

The Reata

Lodi, (209) 339-4394 www.lodicellardoor.com

Chez Sari

Oakdale, (209) 845-9855

The Reserve at Spanos Park

Manteca, (209) 825-8524

Stockton, (209) 477-4653 www.thereserve.americangolf.com

Commercial Exchange Club

The River Mill

Stockton, (209) 946-0246

D’Art Wines

Lodi, (209) 334-9946

Dream Wedding and More

Manteca, (209) 825-8910

Ironstone Vineyards

Murphys, (209) 728-1251 www.ironstonevineyards.com

The Emory

French Camp, (209) 983-9114 www.therivermill.com

The Shadow Oaks

Stockton, (209) 477-5547 www.theshadowoaks.com

Spring Creek Golf and Country Club Ripon, (209) 599-3258 www.springcreekcc.com

Stockton Ballroom

Stockton, (209) 464-3924

Manteca, (209) 603-4255

Le Bistro

Stockton, (209) 957-0536 www.lebistrostockton.com

Lexington Plaza Waterfront Hotel

Stockton, (209) 944-1140 www.lexingtonhotels.com

Lodi / Clements Feed and Fuel Lodi, (209) 365-1043 Clements, (209) 369-0266 www.feedandfuelrestaurants.com

Stockton Golf and Country Club Stockton, (209) 466-4313 www.stocktongolfcc.com

Viaggio Winery and Estate Acampo, (209) 649-3249 www.viaggiowinery.com

Wine and Roses

Lodi, (209) 371-6117 www.winerose.com

The Woman’s Club of Lodi Lodi, (209) 609-9543

Modesto, (209) 521-6100 www.acimagesphoto.com

Videography

Arturo Vera Photography

Element Studios

Stockton, (209) 460-0780 www.arturovera.com

Stockton, (209) 334-5527 www.elementstudiosusa.com

Indicates member of Stockton Association of Wedding Professionals

Briggs Photography

Oyler Video Productions

Bold indicates San Joaquin Weddings advertiser

(209) 239-7542 www.briggsphotography.com

56

san joaquin Weddings

Stockton, (209) 476-9537

WEDDING SEASON 2009

Romance is the two of you togetherâ&#x20AC;Ś Anywhere in the world.

El Capitan Canyon Campground, Santa Barbara

58

san joaquin Weddings

WEDDING SEASON 2009

Bistro and Bar the

Now accepting banquet reservations for your special occasions

Grand Marnier Room seating up to 100 the

Grand Room

Select from the Following Private Dining Accommodations

seating up to 50

the

Marnier Room

The BEST Banquet Facilities in All of San Joaquin

seating up to 36

the

Cabernet Room seating up to 18

Also Call Us for Any Deliveries or Off Premise Catering for ALL Sizes, Small or Large!

the

Chardonnay Room

For more information, preview our website at www.papapavlos.com

seating up to 12

Or Call (209) 477-6133 ¡ Fax (209) 477-6132 501 N. Lincoln Center ¡ Stockton, CA 95207

SPECIAL OCCASIONS AND CATERING Featuring the Grand Marnier Room!

Seating up to 100 for Weddings â&#x20AC;˘ Rehearsal Dinners â&#x20AC;˘ Bridal/Couples Showers Engagement Parties â&#x20AC;˘ Microphone and Screen included

Recognized as the Valley's premier caterer

Catering for off premise weddings also available.

501 N. Lincoln Center

â&#x20AC;˘

477-6133

Open

Everyday

for

lunch

& dinner

!

www.papapavlos.com

" # $san # supplement % & ' Weddings (San Joaquin ) Magazine *+), -.*,/+ (,.

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59

san joaquin WEDDING Weddings SEASON 2009

354 Lincoln Center Stockton, CA 95207 209.474.7407

With sweeping views of lush landscape and manicured rows of grapevines, Oak Farm Vineyards is the perfect place to tie the knot.

We are a small boutique winery complete with a gorgeous lake and rustic barn that is rich in history.

23627 N. DeVries Road, Lodi www.oakfarmvineyards.com • (209) 365-6566 *Property shown by appointment only

lingerie

robes

loungewear

dextra Add an Add extra an extra special an extra special touch touch of luxury touch ofyour luxury toofspecial your luxury to special your to special your day, special make day, make day, your make guests your guests your leave guests leave with leave with with special touch of special luxury to day, make your guests leave with 303 East Yosemite Ave.

Manteca, Ca 95336

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303 East303 Yosemite East303 Yosemite Ave. EastManteca, Yosemite Ave. Manteca, CA Ave. 95336 Manteca, CA 95336 CA 95336 303 East Yosemite Ave. Manteca, CA 95336

ph: 209.823.6500

Manteca's Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory thinks outside the box. We deliver smiles to any special occasion.

Individually wrapped or delicious centerpieces.

A special supplement to San Joaquin Magazine

Treat your guests to something special...

Chocolate Strawberries • Caramel Apples • Truffles • Bark • Sugar Free Chocolate

303 East Yosemite Ave. Manteca, CA 95336 209.823.6500

san joaquin Weddings

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Rise

&Shine san Joaquin’s favorite brunch spots by lauren laBelle

in our opinion, there’s nothing better than a lazy sunday

BREndA HARTsHoRn

brunch with our favorite people. sleeping late on our day off is a must, and not having to choose between breakfast and lunch is a handy perk. add some mimosas and the company of good friends to sweeten the deal, and we’re already on our way out the door.

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FEBRUARY 2009

Wine and Roses LODI WWW.WINEROSE.COM PrIce range: $8-$16 This Lodi favorite has revamped its brunch from a rather expensive buffet-style spread to a reasonable à la carte menu with delicious entrée selections for every palate. Warm biscuits and fresh marmalade are served pre-meal, with coffee, juice, mimosas, and a full wine list available but not included. Soft jazz plays in the elegant, uncrowded dining room while the friendly staff at Wine and Roses welcomes all guests to relax and enjoy their Sunday morning. When you’re finished, grab a seat by the fire in the cozy hotel lobby, or take a stroll at nearby Lodi Lake Park.

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Feed & Fuel LODI AND CLEMENTS WWW.FEEDANDFUELRESTAURANTS.COM PrIce range: $12.95- $26.95, KIDS: $9.95

With two locations, both in central spots of different towns, it’s difficult to pass this Sunday brunch by. The Lodi Feed and Fuel is right across from the movie theater on charming School Street, and the Clements location is a great stop along the way to or from Jackson. Included in this family-friendly restaurant’s sit-down brunch are bottomless Champagne, coffee and juice, biscuits and gravy, and a pastry basket served along with entrées. Both locations get busy around 11:30 a.m., but don’t normally require reservations, with Mother’s Day and Easter being the exceptions. The Clements location also serves their Sunday brunch on their patio seasonally. Owner Carol Wallace recommends the prime rib, breakfast burrito, huevos frittata, and crab cake benedict.

CoURTEsY FEEd And FUEl REsTAURAnTs

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FEBRUARY JAnUARY 2009

Taste of Brittany STOCKTON WWW.TASTEOFBRITTANY.COM PrIce range: $16.95

BREndA HARTsHoRn

The only Sunday Champagne brunch buffet on our list, Taste of Brittany isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t too shy to make a showing of their beautiful and delicious food. Enjoy as much of their signature crepes and their famous pancakes as you can stand. Go ahead, have seconds of their eggs benedict, fresh fruit, and home fries, but do yourself a favor and save room for the included Champagne and coffee (some of the best restaurant brew in the area). The ever-versatile Taste of Brittany can be as family friendly or as fancy as you want it to be, depending on where you choose to sit.

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maxim’s STOCKTON WWW.STOCKTON.MAXIMSWORLD.COM PrIce range: $14.99-$19.99, KIDS: $7 A striking contrast from its youthful Tracy location, Maxim’s in the Brookside neighborhood of Stockton is an upscale eatery in place of what was formerly Mallard’s restaurant. The cascading fountain outside and white tablecloth atmosphere inside this eatery spell class and sophistication.

However, families are always welcome to this Sunday brunch that truly offers a full selection of both breakfast and lunch entrees, complete with a salad bar. Reservations are recommended for groups over six, but with the size of the restaurant, finding a free table is rarely a problem.

The no-Champagne or unlimited-Champagne price options make this restaurant flexible for every member of the family.

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Sergio’s Trattoria Tracy www.sergiostrattoria.com Price Range: $9.95- $18.95

Brenda Hartshorn

This intimate eatery is ideal for a romantic sit-down brunch. The lights are low, the music soothing, and the food elegant. Unlike most other spots on our list, Sergio’s serves brunch seven days a week. Their selected offerings range from warm waffles to grilled baby back ribs, with each entrée served with fresh fruit, roasted potatoes, and a mixed green salad. Champagne cocktails, like mimosas and (our favorite) Bellinis, are available but not included. New to Tracy, Sergio’s specializes in Italian cuisine. They are known at their first location in San Ramon for hearty portions and unique wild game menu options like wild boar and lamb shanks. SJM

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Chefs & Restaurateurs

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Revolucion 1910

307 S. Lower Sacramento Rd., Lodi (209) 334-1519 Chef Jose “Sigi” Lopez has been cooking since he began helping in his mother’s restaurant in Mexico at age fourteen. He brings his multicultural experience along with his homemade sauces and vinaigrettes to the newly opened Revolucion 1910, an upscale Mexican restaurant in Lodi. The cozy restaurant/ lounge, decorated in “old Mexico made modern,” prides itself on its authentic ancient techniques like using chili peppers for flavor rather than spice, making corn tortillas in-house, and baking rather than deep-frying most of their tapasstyle dishes. Their signature margaritas keep with the authentic theme, and are made with high-quality, agave tequilas and fresh lime juice. Customers won’t find Americanized Mexican at Revolucion. Owner Javier Delcastillo says, “We wanted to ‘revolutionize’ our food back to the days when Mexican was made from fresh ingredients.”

Garlic Brothers Bar & Restaurant

6629 Embarcadero Drive, Stockton (209) 474-6585

Restaurateur Greg Risso got his start in the industry over 35 years ago as a busboy and dishwasher at Risso’s in Stockton. After learning the ropes of the family business, Greg ventured out on his own, opening Garlic Brothers Bar & Restaurant on the Delta in 1995. No surprise as to the main ingredient used in many dishes, Garlic Brothers got its name because Greg is such a fan of the savory herb. Addictively delicious meals aren’t the only thing to boast about. Greg also prides himself on the beautiful water views, complemented by the eclectic décor of colorful lights strung from the rafters and his very own paintings that dress the brightly colored walls.

The Creamery Restaurant 5756 Pacific Avenue Located in Robinhood Plaza, Stockton (209) 952-1111 www.go2thecreamery.com

Photo: General Manager Ryan Johnson, Head Server Erica Clark, Owner Roman Wagner

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Happy to roll up his sleeves and get his hands dirty, owner Roman Wagner enjoys working behind the counter several days a week, preparing the same fresh, homemade dishes that he created more than fifteen years ago. Trained through hands-on experience, Roman got his start working the counter and washing dishes for the founder of The Velvet Creamery, which paved the way for today’s family favorite, The Creamery Restaurant. Roman has continued the classic diner experience started by his mentor in 1985, but has made many improvements along the way. Originally known for its velvety ice creams and simple food items, Roman updated the selection to include a full lunch and dinner menu, available seven days a week, and now serves breakfast on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings.

February 2009

Chefs & Restaurateurs

| special advertising section | | special advertising section |

Ernie’s on the Brick Walk Warren K. Ito, Chef/Executive Officer 296 Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 951-3311

Classically-trained in French cuisine at the California Culinary Academy, Chef and Restaurateur Warren Ito first opened Ernie’s Pasta Barn in 1990, as a tribute to his father (Ernie) and his love of food and dining. Four years later, Chef Warren found the ideal location— Lincoln Center—for his second restaurant endeavor: Ernie’s on the Brick Walk. Originally called ESTASI, ecstasy in Italian, Chef Warren changed the name to the “Ernie’s” concept when he decided to close the Pasta Barn in 1997. For more than eighteen years, Chef Warren has been serving the area some of the finest dishes that are both classic and creative. “We start with good ingredients and simply don’t mess them up,” says the fine-dining restaurateur who was voted San Joaquin magazine’s Best Chef in 2008.

Bartoni’s at The Great Plate

714 Central Avenue, Downtown Tracy, (209) 833-0862

Bartoni’s at The Great Plate adds a unique casual elegance to Tracy’s historic downtown. White table linens in a relaxed atmosphere coupled with incredible food at fair prices makes for a dining experience that will delight all patrons.

Richard Bartoni’s reputation as a top notch chef, extraordinary caterer, and a talented restaurateur are all showcased at The Great Plate. Richard brought almost his entire restaurant menu from his former establishment with him, and combined those selections with the most popular items from the Great Plate’s previous menus, giving patrons a choice from classic Italian fare such as lasagna and spaghetti with meatballs, to Angus beef rib eye steaks, hot wings and a burger, or the fresh catch of the day. The Bartoni’s menu has something for everyone, including the popular clam chowder bread bowls on Fridays.

Taste of Brittany Restaurant and Creperie and Moulin Rouge Lounge 2041 Pacific Ave., Stockton (209) 946-9494, www.tasteofbrittany.com French owner Daniel Peron welcomed his new executive chef, Francois Alips, in June of 2008. Chef Francois is a graduate from Lauzanne Culinary School. During the first eleven years of his career, he notably worked at Marty’s Restaurant in Paris for five years. He then moved to the San Francisco Area in 1980, where he worked at L’Auberge, located in Redwood City. He opened his own restaurant, La Cave, in the Alliance Francasie building in 2004, but had to close it in 2007 due to health related issues. Now at Taste of Brittany, Chef Francois brings an extra touch of French authenticity with his classic cuisine. Get ready for this new dining experience with no comparison anywhere in the Valley.

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Chefs & Restaurateurs

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Angelina’s Spaghetti House 1563 E. Fremont St., Stockton (209) 948-6609 www.angelinas.com

This favorite Stockton Italian restaurant specializes in Genovese-style cuisine from recipes that have been in the family for generations.

Their exceptional gravy was passed down from Angelina herself, who relocated from Italy to America in 1913. Never having participated in her namesake restaurant herself, Angelina’s descendants opened the eatery on the request of full-bellied friends, and pay her tribute with every plate they serve. The restaurant also boasts a lounge, and is a popular caterer at fine events throughout San Joaquin. The ravioli and the veal scaloppini are two tried and true favorites.

Chitiva's Salsa and Sports Bar and Grill

445 W. Weber Ave., Stockton (209) 941-8605, www.chitiva.net

Carlos and Liz Chitiva met on the dance floor to the music of the hottest Latin tunes of 'Salsa' fourteen years ago. Who would have thought that it would lead them to purchasing a German pub inside the historic Waterfront Warehouse alongside the future state of the art marina, and replacing it with Mexican cuisine? Their food is high quality, from their authentic chili rellenos and sizzling fajitas to the 100 percent Angus hamburgers. Their cooks, Josephina, Linda, and Dulce, take pride in their craft. Desserts are brought in from local bakery Magda’s Cakes, known for their delicious tres leches cake.

Enjoy a relaxing sunset dinner by the water with a quenching Mojito, or catch some of the sports games on any of the five plasma TVs. Then, every Saturday night, put your dancing shoes on and get ready to Salsa.

Papapavlo’s

501 N. Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 477-6133 www.papapavlos.com Andy and Jennifer Pappas have been enticing the people of Stockton with their delectable fare for over nineteen years. Creating a restaurant that makes its customers feel like part of the family, the Pappases take pride in remaining upscale with their cuisine, wine list, and atmosphere without sacrificing customer service. Papapavlo’s serves continental cuisine with a slight Mediterranean flair. They specialize in chops, steaks, salads, and pasta dishes, with a small portion of their menu dedicated to Greek recipes passed down through the Pappas family for generations. The restaurant recently changed locations, moving to a large, elegant space in Lincoln Center with an open kitchen so patrons can view their dishes being prepared.

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food&wine

DINING REVIEWS WINE

What does Organic really mean?

Courtesy LAura Mcintosh

by Jennifer Bonnett

Sonia Casas and George Elliott

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

“Organic” is one of those catch words we’ve seen in healthy eating cookbooks, at the Farmers Market, and even on the shelf of our local grocery store. But what does it mean?

And are foods bearing this literal stamp of approval by the federal government necessarily better for you?

With people wanting to eat better and live healthier, we turned to San Joaquin’s resident foodie and selfproclaimed organic proponent, Laura McIntosh, for the low-down on this fairly new phenomenon. McIntosh is also well-know for her TV show Bringing it Home, which follows our food from the fields where it’s grown to the recipes that McIntosh demonstrates on her culinary series. »

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A

ccording to McIntosh, buying organic means looking for local suppliers and local farmers who, as a rule, are passionate about what they grow. If they really are passionate about farming then the quality will naturally be there.

McIntosh feels the organic food movement has certainly helped shape the way we look at what we eat and where it comes from. It has also generated buzz around agricultural practices and given consumers more knowledge and insight as to what it takes to be a steward of the land, she adds.

And, we found out, you can’t just call yourself organic because it sounds good. Organic foods must be produced under specific standards, mainly that they are grown without the use of conventional pesticides or fertilizers. In most countries, organic produce cannot be genetically modified. Similar to Japan and Canada, organic food production here in the United States is heavily regulated, and producers claiming to be organic must obtain certification from

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the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Although once relegated to the family garden, organic food production and availability has grown at a steady rate since the early 1990s. In fact, the federal government now puts organics sales at 1 to 2 percent worldwide of all food sales.

With offerings of everything from organic makeup to organic beef, the industry is a multi billion-dollar one. Among the giant companies leading the organic revolution is General Mills, which has a factory right here in Lodi. The manufacturer launched a new organic line which includes readyto-eat cereals, breakfast bars, and frozen fruits and vegetables, all which can be found in a traditional supermarket.

Organic foods are increasingly sold in mass market grocery stores, making it easier for us to get our hands on them. This represents the largest single distribution channel, accounting for 38 percent of organic food sales in 2006, the Organic Trade Association reports.

Aside from the weekly Farmers Market, where local growers sell their carefully cultivated crops, there are also local mainstream places to buy organically-grown produce in San Joaquin, including Podesto’s in Stockton and the Raley’s grocery store chain.

A year ago this month, the West Sacramento-based company launched its Full Circle line of organic products, and has already doubled the original number of offerings, which include dry cereals, canned goods, tea, even vitamins free of additives and artificial colors, as well as natural meat. The juicy steak, succulent seafood, and tasty lamb have no

eating organic

antibiotics or added growth hormones.

“We know that more consumers want to lead healthy lifestyles,” says Raley’s spokeswoman Amy Davis. “So, Full Circle products are a convenient solution for customers looking to find organic and all-natural alternatives throughout our stores.”

“These affordable, natural choices are located right alongside equivalent national brands throughout our stores, so that customers can make quick yet educated decisions on the products they want,” she adds.

Although it has grown quite a bit, Raley’s actually first introduced its Natural Foods Department more than thirty years ago, which features specially-trained managers who possess an expertise in natural and organic products, supplements, and bulk natural foods, according to Davis.

A few years later, the grocery store chain first introduced organic produce, and it has long had the largest variety and selection of organic produce of any conventional supermarket in the area, Davis says. Today, you can choose lettuce, tomatoes, and countless other vegetables, all harvested without pesticides.

McIntosh told us if you’re looking to transition to an organic diet, start first with protein including meats and eggs, as well as milk and other dairy products. And, while she is a fan of buying organic from the local grocery store or even her favorite fruit stands, including the Fruit Bowl in Stockton and Vella Farms in Modesto, McIntosh encourages us not to forget the local certified Farmers Markets.

It’s not that hard to get into an organic eating lifestyle, she adds. “It’s more a matter of awareness. Once you start becoming aware of the array of choices available and begin to enjoy the taste profile it provides, you begin to crave it.

Knowing that you are putting the best ingredients on the table gives you peace of mind that you are providing the best nutrition for your family.” SJM February 2009

Papapavlo’s Bistro and Bar

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501 N. Lincoln Center, (209) 477-6133, www.papapavlos.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

GSFTI!DVJTJOF Papapavlo’s !!!DBTVBM!FMFHBODF Bistro and Bar is considered by many to be one of Northern California’s most unique fine dining

establishments located in Stockton’s Lincoln Center. They offer you the finest and freshest in gourmet cuisine and their fabulous menu includes a large variety of continental

OUR POLICY

These listings are provided as a free service by San Joaquin magazine for its readers. As such, inclusion is based on editorial consideration and is not guaranteed. If you would like your dining establishment to be considered for this listing, send information to lauren@ insidemagazines.com, including your name, the name of the establishment, address, and contact information.

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san joaquin magazine

Food&Wine >

wine picks

Why Join a Wine Club?

This month’s top picks from the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center

compiled by Michael Perry l Photos by BRENDA HARTSHORN

Recently wine drinkers have seen an abundance of new wine clubs in Lodi. What is it about a wine club that has wine lovers agreeing to have their credit card charged on a monthly or quarterly basis for wine not even yet tasted? Here’s a few of the perks of joining a wine club.

First and foremost, wine clubs offer members anywhere from 10 to 30 percent discounts on wine and winery merchandise.

Most, if not all, wine clubs offer members complimentary tastings, and usually a tasting of one or two wines for members-only.

Wine club member-only events, such as winemaker dinners or new wine release parties, are also part of the package.

Get discounted ticket prices to large wine country events like harvest celebrations.

Wine club members receive email newsletters containing the latest and greatest news about upcoming events and activities, recipes to pair with the wines, future wines, and much more.

Wine club membership seems to build a sort of extended wine family between the member and the wine club.

In Lodi, one of the most unique offerings is the

Lodi Wine and Visitor Center Wine Club, which features a wide variety of wines from different Lodi appellation wineries. Here are the wines featured in the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center’s most recent Wine Club selection. »

St. Amant Marian’s Vineyard 2007 “Old Vine” Zinfandel One hundred-year-old vines yielding less than two tons per acre give this wine its rich jammy aroma and flavor. Smooth tannins and a rich mouth feel lead to a finish of dark berries and spice.

This classic Zinfandel is the perfect glass of wine to sip on, but also pairs well with grilled meats, vegetables, and pasta with hearty red sauce. ($24) www.stamantwine.com

Bokisch 2006 Graciano Lodi’s Mediterranean climate is well suited to growing Spanish varietals, and Bokisch is the leader in this pursuit, producing this wonderful Graciano, as well as Tempranillo and Albariño, among others.

The 2006 Graciano exhibits complex aromas of bright berry fruit, mint, and anis. Medium-bodied with mature tannins, the wine’s complex nature leads to a finish of dark berry jam and spicy oak. Enjoy this wine with grilled or barbecued meats and vegetables of all kinds. ($26) www.bokischvineyards.com

Delicato 337 Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, three of the five noble Bordeaux varietals, combine to produce this young yet approachable Cabernet. Classic aromas of cherry and cedar lead to a pleasant mouth feel with moderate tannins.

Cherry, dark chocolate, and leather flavors are followed by a lingering, smoky, cherry chocolate finish. This wine is best served with aged cheeses, barbecue, and grilled or roasted meats and vegetables. ($15) www.delicato.com

For more information: Visit the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center, and taste from a selection of over two hundred award-winning Lodi wines. 2545 W. Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 367-4727, www.lodiwine.com

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February 2009

compiled by Jennifer Bonnett

We over here at San

Joaquin are a little overwhelmed by all the wine glasses on the market. You can buy the inexpensive variety at dozens of mass merchandisers across the area, or opt for the expensive styles at your local department store. Even still, the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center’s tasting room sells commemorative wine glasses for $8 depicting the Discover Lodi! logo.

But what about the style?

Stemmed glasses, wine tumblers, Chardonnay glasses?

Is there really a difference when it comes to sipping your favorite vino?

We asked Tanya Seibold, Northern California winery sales manager for Riedel Crystal, to sort it all out for us so next time we reach for the Sauvignon Blanc, we have the right glass.

Why are wine glasses different shapes and sizes?

In 1961, Riedel featured the first line of wine glasses created in different sizes and shapes. Before this, conventional stemware had used a single basic bowl shape.

Today, a glass with a wider bowl is better for reds since it lets the wine breathe and the flavor develop a bit more. Reach for a narrower glass for white, and the customary tall, narrow glass for Champagne, to keep the air more compact and let the bubbles develop.

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

What’s the difference in a stemless glass and one with a stem?

Most people find the stemless glass a less formal way to serve wine. The design fits in with today’s contemporary home styles, and is a comfortable glass to hold.

Does it matter which one I use? Why? It is really a matter of personal preference. Tumblers (stemless) are the same bowl shape as the stemmed style of glass, so you are still getting the benefit of drinking from varietal-correct stemware. We find the tumblers to be very popular with families who have small children (no long-stemmed glasses to knock over), golfers, boaters, picnickers, and everyday drinkers at their dinner table or back patio.

The cost of wine glasses vary as greatly as the cost of the wine we put in them. How does one choose?

We suggest you spend in the same price range of what you would spend on a bottle of everyday drinking wine. If you are fortunate enough to drink expensive, hundred-dollar bottles of wine on a regular basis, then hand-made, mouth-blown, full lead crystal glasses are for you. If you are like most of us, who spend $15 to $20 on a bottle of wine for a Wednesday night dinner, then choose what is convenient for your lifestyle.

Family Photo (from left to right) Tim and Lani Holdener (Owners), Tanya (daughter), Son’s Tyler and Jonathan and Grand-daughter Sierra

Uncorked

Macchia Macchia Wins 4th International Barbera Competition

TROPHY

The Best Barbera produced outside Italy 2007 Barbera Amador County. “Righteous”

GOLD MEDAL

(only Gold Medal awarded outside Italy) 2007 Barbera Lodi “Delicious”

Held in Italy and judged by Italians with its sole purpose to find the Best Barbera in the World! This Competition has become one of the most important mono-varietal contests and is progressively getting world wide recognition.

7099 East Peltier Rd, Acampo, CA • 209.333.2600 • MacchiaWines.com

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When you demand special treatment, become a VIP (Very Informed Person). Win prizes, get sneak previews of our latest editions, and inform yourself about what’s happening around you. It’s all FREE for the taking.

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4-Star Dining Rating

lebrate

573459

Give Taste Ce of Brittany opportunity y Da e’sthe lentin to takeVa you onith memorable trip to us w a yo ur France: from amazing French signature Treat rt hea eet sw tic dishes prepared byanExecutive Chef to a rom nch Francois Alips,Fre to unforgettable Dinner crepes made on location. The "Moulin Rouge Cocktail Lounge" is the perfect FIX DINNER FEATURING: addition to inan enjoyable evening Smoked Salmon Quiche a crepe shell with glass of French Champagnein “Bouchee a la Reine” (Puff pastry with lobster and shrimp) a warm and cozy The Soup or Guinea Fowlatmosphere.

Confit Salad Choice of entrees including Steak Diane, Rack of Lamb, Chicken Kiev, Salmon banquet room is desert theforperfect setting en Papillote and an unforgettable two in tulip crepe shell... for any special fromNIGHT: family ALSO THIS FRIDAY occasion, AND SATURDAY Duck Breast with Orange Sauce dinners Muscovy to Marinated wedding ceremonies or Leg of Lamb Veal Scallions with Madeira Wine Sauce business meetings.

Come and try this Marinated Codfish with Walnut Butter Sauce traditional menu savory & sweet crepes also available) unique(ourdining experience ... and Bon CALL FOR Open INFORMATION & RESERVATIONS Appetit! for breakfast, lunch, Tuesday-Sunday 10am - 2:30pm and dinner.

Fri & Sat. Night 5pm - 8pm (209) 946-9494 • 20 N. California St. 2041 Pacific Ave., Stockton (on the Miracle Mile), (209) 946-9494 www.tasteofbrittany.com

Serving authentic and modern Japanese cuisine, come enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the causal dining room, or grab a seat at the sushi bar and have some fun with the professional and creative sushi chef. To enhance your experience, Mikasa invites you to explore the list of premium sakes.

Mikasa offers outstanding sushi, sashimi, tempura, noodles, and teriyaki, as well as traditional Japanese sukiyaki and yosenabe. The most popular dishes are the Hawaiian tuna poki, tako kimchee, hamachi jalapeno, tuna ceviche, Mikasa steam sole, ginger beef tenderloin, Golden Gate roll, and Mikasa roll. They’re looking forward to your visit! Kampei!

15138 Harlan Rd., Lathrop (209) 858-1818 www.mikasasushilathrop.com

Tracy Thai Fabio’s Italian Restaurant

Fabio’s is family owned and operated. All pastas, sauces, soups, dressings, and desserts are made on-site.

All meats and cheeses are of the highest quality in true Italian style.

In the Piano Bar Lounge, Fabio’s features a full bar and an extensive wine list. The casually elegant dining room is suitable for nightly dining and those special occasions. The staff is committed to providing quality personal service. Please come in and allow Fabio’s the opportunity to serve you.

88 W. 10th St., Tracy (209) 836-2012, www.fabios.biz

Tracy Thai successfully captures the unique and complex flavors Thai food is known for. Using only fresh, quality ingredients, their food has exceptional presentation, from mouth-watering appetizers like their heavenly Angel Wings (boneless chicken wings stuffed with silver noodles), to their soups served in a flaming tureen that keeps it warm throughout the meal. Tracy Thai prepares imaginative creations for those with more adventurous tastes, or delicious familiar dishes that are great choices for those who have never experienced Thai food before.

1035 Central Ave. Tracy, (209) 833-9703

Bartoni’s at The Great Plate

Angelina’s is a true family restaurant: owned by four family members, named after another, and welcoming to all of yours. For thirty-one years, their hearty homemade pastas, raviolis, and traditional sauces have been bringing families together just like a meal at Grandma’s house. Consider inviting all your relatives to dine together in Angelina’s comfortable and cozy banquet room the next time you are hosting a family get-together. Angelina’s isn’t fussy—just simple, classic, and great tasting.

1563 E. Fremont St., Stockton (209) 948-6609, www.angelinas.com

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Two of Tracy’s favorite establishments are blending into one exciting destination. Bartoni’s long list of fans will be excited by his return to downtown Tracy. Come and enjoy the best of both worlds! All the Great Plate favorites along with Bartoni’s sensations are available in a relaxed dining atmosphere. Choose a selection from the extensive wine list to compliment any item. Lunch, dinner, and appetizers are available 7 days a week, along with a full bar and 16 beers on tap. Fresh pastas, c+ertified Angus steaks, gourmet pizzas, famous hot wings, excellent burgers, and so much more! Catering is also available.

714 Central Ave. Tracy, (209) 833-0862 www.thegreatplate.com

February 2009

2505 W. Turner Rd. Lodi, (209) 334-6988

Boasting one of the prettiest bars around, 856 is as comfortable as it is trendy. With over sixteen different martinis on the menu, 856 prepares after hours appetizers for those stopping by after a late night on the town. The menu is built upon lots of local produce, and famous for their steaks, hand cut to order, cooked and prepared by their chef any way you desire.

515 N. Main St. Manteca, (209) 823-0947 2819 W. March Lane, Ste. A1 Stockton, (209) 957-3839

Papapavlo’s Bistro and Bar is considered by many to be one of Northern California’s most unique fine dining establishments, located in Stockton’s Lincoln Center. They offer the finest and freshest in gourmet cuisine, and their fabulous menu includes a large variety of continental dishes.

Three outdoor dining patios make for a perfect place to relax during lunch or dinner. Papapavlo’s offers four private banquet rooms accommodating groups as intimate as 12, to as large as 100 guests.

Papapavlo’s is open Sun.-Thur., 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fri. and Sat., 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

S a n J o a q u i n d i n i ng g u i d e

With its seasonally-based menu and gourmet preparation, the Wine and Roses restaurant boasts a charming venue with exceptional service. Guests are spoiled with beautiful views of the garden, or can enjoy a romantic evening sitting by the large fireplace. Sit alongside the piano while enjoying an after dinner cocktail. As an added bonus, stay overnight at the charming and beautiful Wine and Roses Inn and make a weekend out of it.

De Vega Brothers restaurant offers the romance and warmth of a picnic on a Tuscan hillside, any night of the week.

Specializing in a cuisine that celebrates life and culture through flavor, they are a local favorite in Manteca and now in Stockton. Their menu offers mostly delectable Italian staples—caesar salad, veal saltimbocca, tiramisu, cappuccino—but adds lunch menu options like the teriyaki chicken sandwich and the De Vega burger to ensure that all their guests are satisfied.

501 N. Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 477-6133, www.papapavlos.com

856 W. Benjamin Holt Dr. Stockton, (209) 957-7856

FINLEY’S Bar and Grill

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

A destination location, Finley’s Bar and Grill is well worth seeking out.

Located in the middle of orchards on Airport Way, you’ll find an early 1900s building surrounded by beautiful gardens and waterfalls.

Inside, find a country feel and "period” décor. The menu offers a variety of choices such as escargot, award-winning fried frog legs, and their specialty, smoked prime rib. After dinner, enjoy a cocktail from the full-service bar which includes a large selection of fine Scotch. Lunch and dinner.

Nestled in the quaint town of Woodbridge, this beautiful historic restaurant is one of the oldest brick buildings in the Valley. The extensive collection of antiques, bronzes, and Western artwork and memorabilia provides a historic ambiance for this fine dining establishment. Serving the very best in prime rib, steak, and seafood. Free banquet facilities available. Live music Fri. and Sat. nights. Open 7 days a week. Lunch, dinner, and Sunday Brunch available.

10477 S. Airport Way, Manteca (209) 983-9493

18939 N. Lower Sacramento Rd. Woodbridge, (209) 366-1800

san joaquin magazine

107

on the waterfront

A favorite among guests that enjoy fi ne dining, Rosewood Bar and Grill offers an upbeat and sophisticated setting with its rich wood and black and white tile fl oor, while still remaining family friendly. With an exceptional menu, Rosewood offers monday night prix ďŹ xe (French for â&#x20AC;&#x153;fi xed priceâ&#x20AC;?) dining specials, letting diners order a complete meal for about half the price of doing so a la carte. Rosewood Bar and Grill also boasts a wine list that is out of this world.

28 s. school st. lodi, (209) 369-0470

Magellanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant

American Continental Cuisine

magellanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant, named after owner and executive chef Tomas magellan, is much like the small but intimate restaurants found in san Francisco. Featuring traditional American cuisine, the menu choices range from duck salad to the ever popular, mouth-watering filet mignon. If you are looking for a good traditional meal with peaceful ambiance, seafood specials, and a martini bar to put others to shame, then magellanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is the place for you.

15 E. 6th st.

Tracy, (209) 839-2333

sitting around the immense copper beer vats in the middle of the dining room floor, beer connoisseurs with a taste for fine dining can enjoy the best of both worlds at lodi Beer Co. Restaurant and Brewery, newly opened and located in downtown lodi. With such house specialties as the deep-fried mac and cheese nuggets for starters, to the melt-inyour-mouth prime rib entrĂŠe cooked to perfection, this casual fine dining restaurant is the ideal choice for both lunch and dinner.

105 s. school st. lodi, (209) 368-9931

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Chitivaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s serves up authentic mexican food, tasty tropical drinks, and a giant side of fun six nights a week. saturday nights after 9 p.m., the fajitas and enchiladas play second fiddle to the dJs and live bands on center stageâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the salsa is still hot, but now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a dance, not a culinary dip. If all this has you craving a cool delta breeze, look no further than the restaurantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outdoor dining overlooking the water. so go find your dancing shoes, sip a cool mojito, and have some fun. Available for private parties, weddings & receptions. Call for seasonal hours.

445 W. Weber Ave., stockton (209) 941-8605 www.chitiva.net

Un Restaurante Mexicano Refinado QUESO FUNDIDO

mexican food, the way it was.

At Revolucion 1910, your dining TINGA DE POLLO experience will be that of old CHICKEN, LONGANISA & CHIPOTLE WITH COTIJA CHEESE mexico, but with a modern twist.

ATUN ENCHIPOTLETADO sip SEARED on aAHI perfectly blended margarita PUMPKIN SEED CRUSTED TUNA WITH ASPARAGUS - QUINOA SALAD & while you enjoy a meal of delicious CHIPOTLE VINAIGRETTE authenticity, with the added touch of ARRACHERA MARINATED GRILLED SKIRT STEAK WITH ROASTED PEPPERS, GARLIC & SWEET POTATOES a contemporary chef. The menu was designed to allow for sharing among friends and family, as it was in the 4 -PXFS 4BDSBNFOUP 3E 4UF % Â&#x2021; -PEJ r *O UIF 3BMFZ T 4IPQQJOH $FOUFS r

olden days, and many of the dishes are served with homemade corn tortillas. Flat screen televisions add to the modern flair, but with black and white films playing as you dine, you will feel as though you have traveled back in time.

OAXACA CHEESE BAKED IN A TERRACOTTA BOWL WITH CHORIZO, ANAHEIM CHILE & ROASTED CORN

307 s. lower sacramento Rd., lodi In Raleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shopping Center (209) 334-1519

Waterfront views, stunning sunsets and, of course, fabulous food; what more could you ask for? Garlic Brothers is an independently-owned family restaurant that offers multicultural cuisine and a lively atmosphere, making for an overall dining experience that is fun and eclectic. From steaks and wood-fired pizzas to salads and pasta dishes, Garlic Brothers has something for everyone, including a delicious kids menu. The restaurant offers full catering services and inhouse accommodation for parties up to fifty. With a full bar, this is also the perfect place to spend happy hour or a night out with friends.

6629 Embarcadero dr., stockton (209) 474-6585, www.garlic-brothers.com

FEBRUARY 2009

saN JoaquiN DiNiNG GuiDe

ERNIE’S

ON THE BRICK WALK Warren K. Ito, Chef/Executive officer since 1990, Ernie’s has provided the stockton area with fresh local goods, prepared by well-trained chefs. Featuring fresh salads, made-to-order manila clam chowder, steaks and fish selections from the grill, pasta and sautés, plus daily specials, the menu has something for everyone. A full bar, including a wine list of 200 California Wines, will add to your dining choices. Find out why Ernie’s was voted #1 for fine dining in the area.

Want to spice up a dull week? A trip to Carmen’s Casa nachos family mexican restaurant should do the trick. Try Carmen’s fantastic fajitas and their specialty salsa seven days a week for lunch and dinner, where they make all of their food fresh everyday.

Outdoor dining and a children’s menu are available to accommodate the whole family, while their catering and banquet menus take care of all your special occasion needs. Turn up the heat at Carmen’s Casa nachos, where it’s Siempre Caliente!

296 lincoln Center stockton, CA 95207

350 W. Grant line Rd. Tracy, (209) 835-9402

Voted san Joaquin’s Best Family Restaurant, the Creamery is a classic American grill that has been a stockton landmark since 1985. Even with a fresh, new look that is more spacious and modern, this dining favorite still offers the same cozy feel as when it first opened more than two decades ago. Enjoy gourmet sandwiches, huge hamburgers, garden fresh salads, pasta dishes, homestyle dinners, and an impressive dessert selection seven days a week. Whether you are in the neighborhood or just hungry for great food, The Creamery Restaurant will be sure to please. now serVing Breakfast on the weekend.

Bringing a new look and feel to stockton, Centrale Kitchen and Bar will give you the feeling of an upscale bistro in any big city around the world, with its authentic brick walls and dark, walnut wood floors. The menu features traditional American comfort food with a strong focus on fresh and unique ingredients. as with the dinner menu, the wine selection will change by season, and you will find many extraordinary bottles that you won’t find anywhere else in the region. With a full bar, Centrale is also bringing back the quality cocktail by using all fresh juices and house-made mixes.

Centrale Kitchen and Bar is located on the south end of the “miracle mile” and is open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week.

5756 Pacific ave. located in Robinhood plaza, stockton (209) 952-1111

1825 pacific Ave., ste. 2 stockton, (209) 939-1825



For sixty-eight years, El Rancho Inn has been charming customers with its superior service and delectable dishes. The steak and lobster are excellent, as are the homemade soups served up fresh for lunch. The food alone is well worth your time, but be sure to look up from your plate and take in the surroundings.

From the cattle brands on the walls to the regulars relaxing at their favorite tables, this country inn is sure to bring a smile to your face as well as warmth to your belly.

1457 E. mariposa Rd., stockton (209) 467-1529

www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

The Area’s Best Restaurants for special restaurant rates, call us at 209.833.9989

INDULGE YOUR TASTE BUDS san joaquin magazine

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Food&Wine >

spanish wines

While we, too, are eager to

try new wines, so many new options can get a bit overwhelming. Here’s a quick primer on a few of Lodi’s favorite Spanish grapes.

Albariño This wine actually originally hails from Portugal.

The white grape creates a wine not only pleasing to the palate, but to the senses as well. Its aroma is very distinctive, much like wines made with Viognier or Gewurztraminer grapes. Albariño is light with a high acidity.

Local wine to try: Pasos Vineyards 2006 Albariño

Rosado As you can probably guess, Rosado is a blushcolored wine similar to a Rosé, but made from a Spanish varietal grape. Many find these wines perfect for summer or spring sipping, with flavors reminiscent of cherry blossoms and rose petals.

Local wine to try: Watts Winery 2006 Rosado

Lodi’s Spanish Wines

by Jennifer Bonnett

Just like the fermented grapes in the barrels, the California wine market has been maturing, and its consumers have become increasingly open to trying new and unique wines. Lodi is at the forefront of this trend with its unique Spanish wines, due to year-round weather reminiscent of the climate of the Spanish countryside: warm in the day and cooling in the evening, thanks to the Delta breezes.

The Spanish grapes here in the Lodi Appellation are thriving, thanks partly to the climate and partly to the soil, according to Stuart Spencer at the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center.

Spencer not only farms grapes and makes his own wine, but he also sits on the Lodi Winegrape Commission and TAPAS, or Tempranillo Advocates Producers and Amigos Society.

Lodi’s history as a grape-growing region is long, so Spencer feels growers here are more apt to embrace cultivating new varieties. Many vintners are embracing these varieties not only because they make good wine, but as a way to distinguish themselves in the wine marketplace.

His family’s St. Amant Winery makes a Tempranillo blend.

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When it comes to consumers, the acceptance of new wine blends is apparent as these wines keep winning coveted competitions. Lodi’s own Bokisch Vineyards placed in the San Francisco Chronicle’s top one hundred wines with a Spanish vintage—a feat we’ve been told would have been virtually impossible a decade ago. The winery’s Mokelumne River-Lodi Albariño not only placed high in the “other whites” category, but received such accolades from the editors as “one of the most expressive examples of American Albariño.”

Markus Bokisch, owner of Bokisch Vineyards, is arguably the Lodi-area leader for Spanish varietals. In addition to the medal-winning Albariño, the winery has also been producing, for nearly a decade, varietals of Rosado, Garnacha, Tempranillo, and Graciano wines.

Ramon Rios Vineyard and Winery in Tracy has also been experimenting with Spanish wines in keeping close to its Portuguese roots. The winery currently produces a Tempranillo, and, separately, a Tempranillo-Barbera blend.

Garnacha This is the Spanish version of one of the most popular red wine grapes in the world, Grenache.

While it has been surpassed by Tempranillo as the most-widely grown grape in Spain, it is still dominant and often blended with Syrah and Cabernet to make full-bodied reds.

Local wine to try: Bokisch Vineyards 2006 Garnacha

Tempranillo Sometimes referred to as the Cabernet Sauvignon grape of Spain, Tempranillo is capable of producing full-bodied, robust red wines, with rich flavors and aromas of leather, vanilla, tobacco, and herb.

Local wine to try: Harney Lane Winery 2006 Tempranillo

Graciano Graciano is a red wine grape originally grown in Spain that produces a deep, ruby red glass of vino.

The finished product is known to age well and gives off a delicate pleasing scent.

Local wine to try: Bokisch Vineyards 2005 Graciano

February 2009

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For more information call 209.946.2424 or go online www.pacific.edu/cpce san joaquin magazine

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Food&Wine >

restaurant guide

DiningOut compiled by ROBIN MEYER with additional reporting by Amanda Rife and Lindsey Ball

Taste of Brittany 2041 Pacific Ave., Stockton (209) 946-9494 www.tasteofbrittany.com Full bar. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. $-$$

Clements Clements Feed & Fuel

California Street Café

18938 E. Hwy. 88, (209) 759-3100. Full bar. Open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. $$-$$$$

332 N. California St., (209) 367-1780.

No alcohol served. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. $

Located in a building that dates back to the 1890s, and decorated to preserve its Victorian-era charm, Clements Feed and Fuel is an excellent choice for families and large groups (the large banquet room seats one hundred fifty). Turn of the century decorations may often call to mind faded roses and dainty tea houses, but not here.

Instead, think antique railroads and hearty prime rib and steaks served seven days a week—perfect for hungry railroad workers and modern diners alike.

The California Street Café serves up a hearty breakfast five days a week, plus good ol’ American BBQ ribs, tri-tip, burgers, and more for lunch and dinner. It’s casual dining, but by no means is it uncultured— the restaurant is a participant in downtown Lodi’s Friday night Art Hop, so its walls are hung with local art which changes monthly.

Stop by to admire the most recent art, eat lunch outside with a view of downtown Lodi, or pick up a catering menu to make your life easier the next time you entertain.

lathrop

Owner Daniel Peron and Executive Chef Francois Alips, both native from France, create the most authentic classic French cuisine in the Valley. Dishes range from savory crepes made out of buckwheat flour and filled with beef bourguignon, chicken Chardonnay, or smoked salmon, to a variety of omelets made on the griddle, pancakes, and, of course, sweet dessert crepes. Other popular items are the fresh and warm beignets, and a large selection of salads and baguette sandwiches. Sunday Champagne Brunch is also a winner, and at nighttime, try dishes like Muscovy duck breast with raspberry sauce, rack of lamb a la Provencale, veal Normandy, chicken Cordon Bleu, steaks, and fresh fish and seafood. The “Moulin Rouge Cocktail Lounge” offers a full bar with a large selection of French and local wines.

Mikasa Japanese Bistro 15138 Harlan Rd. (209) 858-1818. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$$

Serving authentic and modern Japanese cuisine, come enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of this casual dining room, or grab a seat at the sushi bar and have some fun with their professional and creative sushi chef. To enhance your experience, you’re invited to explore their list of premium sakes. Mikasa offers outstanding sushi, sashimi, tempura, noodles, and teriyaki, as well as traditional Japanese sukiyaki and yosenabe. The most popular dishes are the Hawaiian tuna poki, tako kimchee, hamachi jalapeno, tuna ceviche, Mikasa steam sole, ginger beef tenderloin, Golden Gate roll, and Mikasa roll. Kampei!

LOCKEFORD Lockeford Inn Restaurant and George’s Lounge 18700 N. Hwy. 88, (209) 727-5028.

Full bar. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. $$

Pricing KeY (entree): $–under $10

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$$–under $17

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$$$–under $24

$$$$–over $24

George’s Lounge at the Lockeford Inn and Restaurant may be known for its banquet rooms that can accommodate up to three hundred people for dancing and drinks, but the lounge also offers a wide variety of food for every meal of the day. Looking for some homemade cooking? You’ve come to the right place. The meatloaf is guaranteed to make you feel like you’re sitting at your childhood kitchen table in your flannel pajamas. Not in the mood for traditional American fare? George’s also offers a wide selection of Mediterranean cuisine—enjoy a falafel or gyro and wash it down with something off the wine list.

Habañero Hots 1024 Victor Rd., (209) 369-3791, www.habanerohots.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Not only does this Mexican restaurant offer steaming fajitas and cheesy nachos, but they serve up hot peppers, too. Those willing to eat a habañero chili pepper can win their way into the Habañero Hots “Hall of Flame.”

This is no bell pepper, either; the habañero is rated between 100,000 and 350,000 on the Scoville scale, developed to rank spiciness, compared to a mere 5,000 for a basic jalapeño. If you’re successful in the “Eat the Heat” contest, you are rewarded with a complimentary T-shirt and your photo on the wall. Hey, you can always wash it down with one of their one hundred seventy-five selections of tequila.

Lodi Beer Company 105 S. School St., (209) 368-9931, www.lodibeercompany.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Whether you’re looking for a place to meet for your next business lunch, to grab a bite with friends or your kids after work, or to dine with a party of one hundred, the Lodi Beer Company welcomes you. The beautiful slate floors, iron work, and copper accents create an inviting atmosphere, and with up to fourteen beers on tap and menu items ranging from deep fried macaroni and cheese to a twenty-two ounce rib eye steak to grilled mahi-mahi, everyone is sure to leave happy and full.

Lodi Feed and Fuel 27 W. Elm St., (209) 365-1043. Full bar. Open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. $$-$$$$

Come dressed up or down; Lodi Feed and Fuel welcomes all for a fun, fine dining experience. With classic and contemporary movie memorabilia adorning the restaurant’s walls (think John Wayne juxtaposed with February 2009

courtesy taste of brittany

OUR POLICY

These listings are provided as a free service by San Joaquin magazine for its readers. As such, inclusion is based on editorial consideration and is not guaranteed. If you would like your dining establishment to be considered for this listing, send information to lauren@ insidemagazines.com, including your name, the name of the establishment, address, and contact information.

lodi

Jack Sparrow), and its prime location across the street from the movie theater, this is a perfect choice for a dinner-and-a-movie date.

Thursdays are great days to try out the barâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;from 4 to 7 p.m. enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers and a live comedy show every other week. If you are in the mood for an adventurous drink, be sure to try the Grapefruit Cosmopolitan made from freshly squeezed grapefruit juice or the Wasabi Bloody Mary.

Moo Mooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Burger Barn 113 N. School St., (209) 369-9450, www.moo-moos.com.

No alcohol served. Open for lunch and dinner. $

Playing off the name of the restaurant, Moo Mooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is decorated with handpainted murals of a large barn and open pastures, but the atmosphere is more reminiscent of a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;50s diner than a drive through the countryside. Authentic burgers, shakes, onion rings, and fries are served in addition to less greasy sandwiches, salads, veggie burgers, and sweet potato fries. This is a great place to come with small children for a fun, tasty, and affordable meal. Moo Mooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ensures that, like happy cows, happy diners come from California.

Rosewood Bar and Grill 28 S. School St., (209) 369-0470, www.rosewoodbarandgrill. com.

Full bar. Open for dinner. $$-$$$

A favorite among guests that enjoy fine dining, Rosewood Bar and Grill is an upbeat and sophisticated setting with its rich wood and black and white tile floor, yet it remains family friendly.

With an exceptional menu, Rosewood offers Monday night prix fixeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;French for â&#x20AC;&#x153;fixed priceâ&#x20AC;?â&#x20AC;&#x201D;dining specials, letting patrons order a complete meal for about www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

half the price of a la carte.

Rosewood Bar and Grill also boasts a wine list that is out of this world.

Martin Dentistry Offering General, Restorative, Cosmetic and Sedation Dentistry

School Street Bistro 116 N. School St., (209) 333-3950, www.schoolstbistro.com.

Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

At this quaint European-style bistro, everything is made from scratch daily, as well as all of the sauces and salad dressings accompanying their regional American cuisine. Specialties include upscale comfort foods like bacon wrapped meatloaf and smoked gouda macaroni and cheese, in addition to delicious steaks and fresh seafood. The bistro features domestic and imported beers and an extensive wine list of over one hundred local and imported wines. This is a popular destination for both casual dining and the occasional wine tasting events hosted by the restaurant, so reservations are highly recommended.

A Happy Patient

By combining dental implants, dental crowns, porcelain veneers, endodontic treatment, and other dental therapies, Martin Dentistry is able to restore the form, function, and beauty of your smile, regardless of the complexity of your dental problems.

Both Dr. Doug and Dr. Dax Martin are licensed in all of the latest sedation dentistry techniques to ensure a comfortable visit.

Contact Martin Dentistry TODAY to schedule your appointment

1310 E. Swain Road, Stockton XXX NBSUJOJNQMBOUT DPN t

Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry

Strings Italian CafĂŠ 2314 W. Kettleman Ln., (209) 369-6400, www.stringscafe.com.

Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

First impressions can be deceiving, as is the case with Strings CafĂŠ. The modest location (nestled in the Wal-Mart shopping center) doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do its flawless reputation justice. You have to stop in, if only to taste the soft Parmesan bread and the salad, which is really quite memorableâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;crisp lettuce sprinkled with savory croutons, sunflower seeds, raisins, and a dressing that pulls the whole dish together. Thinking about stopping after the salad? Not a chance. Try the lasagna, which is superb, or any of the seafood dishes, all of which are surprisingly fresh and flavorful.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;making kids smileâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our office provides a warm,

caring, environment specialized for treating the dental needs of infants, children, and adolescentsâ&#x20AC;? %.% )BSWBSE 4DIPPM PG %FOUBM .FEJDJOF .1) )BSWBSE 4DIPPM PG 1VCMJD )FBMUI 4QFDJBMUZ 5SBJOJOH JO 1FEJBUSJD %FOUJTUSZ Univ. of Rochester Eastman Dental Center .FNCFS PG "NFSJDBO "DBEFNZ PG 1FEJBUSJD %FOUJTUSZ

www.TracyPediatricDentist.com

Rafat S. Razi, D.M.D, M.P.H.

8 (SBOU -JOF 3E t 4UF 5SBDZ $" (

san joaquin magazine

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Food&Wine >

restaurant guide Wine and Roses

[ local Learning ]

Wine Country Cooking Learn to cook in the Vino Con Brio Winery kitchen Taught by Chef Gary Degrande, who owns and runs Degrande’s Café in Lodi, Vino Con Brio’s cooking series caters to both kitchen novices and skilled home chefs looking to expand their repertoire. Students prepare foods from a themed menu in the Amorosa kitchen, located at the center of the winery, and after preparing the meal, participants have the opportunity to enjoy their meal paired with some of the winery’s best selections. A continuation of the Italian Cooking series from this past summer, January saw Vino Con Brio’s Winter Comfort Foods class—participants made creamy tomato basil soup, braised short ribs with sautéed vegetables, freshly baked

For more information: Classes are Sunday afternoons at 3 p.m. $70 per class, $45 for Club Enoteca members (Vino Con Brio’s wine club). www.vinoconbrio.com

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With its seasonally-based menu and gourmet preparation, the Wine and Roses restaurant boasts a charming venue with exceptional service.

The kitchen uses fresh, local ingredients to create tantalizing examples of California cuisine.

Guests are spoiled with beautiful views of the garden, or a romantic evening dining by the large fireplace. Sit alongside the piano while enjoying an after dinner cocktail and, as an additional bonus, stay overnight at the charming and beautiful Wine and Roses Inn and make a weekend out of it.

manteca De Vega Brothers 515 N. Main St., (209) 823-0947, www.devegabrothers.com.

Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$$$

De Vega Brothers has risen from its humble beginnings in a converted A&W stand in Manteca to one of the Valley’s premier Italian restaurants, with expanded locations in both Manteca and Stockton.

The Manteca site boasts handpainted murals of Roman ruins and rustic Italian vistas, while Stockton prides itself on creating an atmosphere of urban elegance with patio dining and live piano music.

Both restaurants are known for their generous portions and delicious lamb chops, cioppino, chicken and veal scaloppini, steak, and seafood, as well as their gourmet pastas and sauces.

Finley’s Bar and Grill 10477 S. Airport Way, (209) 983-9493. Full bar. Open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch during the winter season. $$-$$$$

Finley’s is full of pleasant surprises, the first being the truly romantic restaurant

that lies within this nondescript building. While soft candlelight flickers at the center of your elegantly set table, you can relax and share a bottle of locally-made wine and, if you’re brave enough, kick off your dinner by sharing an appetizer of sautéed or deep-fried frog legs. This succulent dish is sweeter tasting than chicken, and quite appetizing. After indulging your adventurous side, spring into dinner with the savory house specialty, smoked prime rib. Feeling romantic enough to propose? Finley’s also caters small, intimate weddings in their spacious garden.

Isadore’s Restaurant 680 N. Main St., (209) 825-4300, www.isadores.com. Full bar.

Open for lunch and dinner. $$$-$$$$

Isadore’s is anything but humble: the kitchen is out-of-this-world, and they know it. In fact, if you happen to inquire, they’ll gladly tell you which items on the menu you’re sure to fall in love with. Locals swear by the quality of the seafood and made-to-order pasta selections.

Though there’s no official children’s menu, the kitchen will gladly whip up a pint-sized meal for your munchkins, as well as accommodate any other special requests. Finally, don’t be shy—order the Sex in a Pan for dessert. Sweet, ripe banana slices and rich chocolate pudding on a crumbly cookie crust topped with real whipped cream and chocolate sauce make for a climactic end to any meal.

Kelley Brothers Brewing Company 112 E. Yosemite Ave., (209) 8251727. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

This Manteca hot spot rose up out of the ashes of the El Rey Theatre, which ironically burned down after its final showing of The Towering Inferno. Big, bulky sandwiches, like the Southwest-style BBQ Pork Masterpiece make this a great lunch destination, but live music Friday and Saturday nights and the largest bar in the Valley (complete with twelve house-made beers on tap) draw crowds at dinnertime and in the later hours, too. The whole family will enjoy the food as much

as the fun murals and collections of local antiques on display.

stockton 856 Restaurant & Lounge 856 Benjamin Holt Dr., (209) 957-7856, www.856856. com.

Full bar. Open for dinner. $$-$$$

Boasting one of the prettiest bars around, 856 is as comfortable as it is trendy. With over sixteen different martinis on the menu, all served to perfection, 856 hosts a “Martini Mood Hour” Monday through Friday, and prepares after-hours appetizers for those stopping by after a late night on the town. The menu is built upon lots of local produce, and their fish is trucked in each morning fresh from the docks of San Francisco.

Enjoy delicious food, friendly service, and a beautiful full-service lounge. There’s always something happening at this unique place to dine. Check out their calendar of events for the live music schedule, early Supper Club hours, and more.

Angelina’s Spaghetti House 1563 E. Fremont St., (209) 9486609, www.angelinas.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Angelina’s is a true family restaurant: owned by four family members, named after another, and welcoming to all of yours.

For thirty-one years, their hearty homemade pastas, raviolis, and traditional sauces have been bringing families together just like a meal at Grandma’s house. Consider inviting all your relatives to dine together in Angelina’s comfortable and cozy banquet room the next time you are hosting a family gettogether. Angelina’s isn’t fussy— just simple, classic, and great tasting.

Arroyo’s Café 2381 W. March Ln., (209) 472-1661, www.arroyoscafe.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $

When Guadalupe and Jesus Arroyo moved here in the early 1940s, they immediately began sharing February 2009

courtesy vino con brio winery

bread, and a dessert—with a different theme to come each month. Class sizes are limited to twelve, to ensure that the environment be as personal as possible, so we recommend class reservations (required) be made as soon as you get the hankering to cook. –Amanda Rife

2505 W. Turner Rd., (209) 334-6988, www.winerose.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. $$$-$$$$

their passion for food with friends and family by opening their first restaurant. Sixty years later, their son Mario continues the tradition and commitment to excellence at Arroyoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CafĂŠ. Located on the water, one can enjoy fresh, homemade tortillas, enchiladas, carne asada, and other Mexican favorites. Friday and Saturday nights the restaurant hosts live Mariachi music, and the bar hosts Happy Hour from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Back Bay Restaurant 2301 Pacific Avenue, (209) 941-0094.

Full bar. Open for dinner. $$-$$$

In business for twenty-four years, the Back Bay is the place for couples and friends to go for casual yet intimate dining in Stockton. The white tablecloth draped tables, nautical-themed watercolors and oil paintings, create a sophisticated atmosphere and provide an elegant backdrop for the restaurantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature prime rib, seafood, lamb, and veal dishes. Friday and Saturday nights, enjoy live piano music from the bar.

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Breadfruit Tree Restaurant 8095 Rio Blanco Rd., (209) 952-7361, www.breadfruittree.com.

Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

In the mood for something different? Relax on the Delta and enjoy the flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean Islands at the Breadfruit Tree. The restaurant serves food from many of the tropical islands, and prides itself on its Peleauâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a rice stir-fry with fresh veggies and seafood, seasoned with a myriad of delightful spices. Complete your meal with a Jamaican beer or house-made, Caribbeanstyle drink. While eating, admire the hand-painted murals depicting waterfalls and island life. The owners proudly claim, â&#x20AC;&#x153;As they say in the Caribbean, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;we cook food with love.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? The Breadfruit Tree is open for catering year-round and restaurant dining from February to November.

Budâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Seafood Grille 314 Lincoln Center, (209) 956-0270, www.budsseafood.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Everyone is welcome at Budâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Seafood Grille. Friendly service, hearty portions, and a range of fish, seafood, pasta, steak, and poultry entrees make Budâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great choice for a business lunch, family dinner, or night out for two. Every meal begins with a bottomless basket of fresh sourdough bread, so be careful not to fill up before the rest arrives.

The new leafy outdoor patio seats thirty, and is the perfect spot to take a break from shopping in Lincoln Center and enjoy a leisurely lunch or even just a drink with a friend.

Give your children the gift that lasts a lifetime - Competitive prices on quality musical instruments.

- Large selection of band instruments, sheet music and North American made guitars!

CEntrale Kitchen and bar

Voted best music lessons in Tracy 10 years in a row

1825 Pacific Ave., Ste. 2 (209) 939-1825. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Bringing a new look and feel to Stockton, Centrale Kitchen and Bar will give you the feeling of an upscale bistro in any big city around the world, with its authentic brick walls and dark, walnut wood floors. The menu features traditional American comfort food with a strong focus on fresh and unique ingredients. As with the dinner menu, the wine selection will change by season, and you will find

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Main Street Music Call for more information

209.835.1125

Proverbs 22:6

4 B M F T t 4 F S W J D F

53 West 10th St. Tracy

- F T T P O T san joaquin magazine

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Food&Wine > many extraordinary bottles that you won’t find anywhere else in the region. With a full bar, Centrale is also bringing back the quality cocktail by using all fresh juices and house-made mixes. Centrale Kitchen and Bar is located on the south end of the Miracle Mile.

Chitiva’s Salsa and Sports Bar and Grill 445 W. Weber Ave., (209) 941-8605, www.chitiva.net.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

restaurant guide

center stage—the Salsa is still hot, but now it’s a dance, not a culinary dip. If all this has you craving a cool Delta breeze, look no further than the restaurant’s outdoor dining overlooking the water or one of their popular Salsa cruises (summer months through October). So go find your dancing shoes, sip a cool mojito, and have some fun.

Cocoro Japanese Bistro 2105 Pacific Ave., (209) 941-6053. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Cocoro is the “it” place to go for sushi in Stockton. Its streamlined, contemporary Japanese décor and intimate seating arrangements give it a sophisticated atmosphere, and its artful sushi creations made with fish delivered fresh daily from the Bay Area keep patrons coming back for more.

At the sushi counter, you [ local Facts ] can watch talented chefs roll and wrap beautiful bites right before your eyes. The restaurant’s signature sushi—the Coco Roll—consists of a January was bottling season in wine tempura prawn wrapped country, and all our favorite Lodi up with avocado and Appellation wineries, big and small, topped with eel, spicy were hard at work packaging their local tuna, teriyaki sauce, and vintages. One well-known winery, special house dressing, all garnished with a walnut. however, doesn’t have a bottling season.

For the less adventurous Woodbridge Winery’s bottling system is eater, Cocoro offers at work throughout the entire year, and the traditional range of is actually the fastest bottling system of tempura, teriyaki, and noodle dishes. its kind in

Chitiva’s serves up authentic Mexican food, tasty tropical drinks, and a giant side of fun six nights a week. Saturday nights after 9 p.m., the fajitas and enchiladas play second fiddle to the DJs and live bands on

All Bottled Up

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The Creamery 5756 Pacific Ave., Robinhood Plaza (209) 925-1111.

No alcohol served. Open for breakfast (on weekends), lunch, and dinner. $-$$

The Creamery Restaurant is a classic American grill that has been a Stockton landmark since 1985.

Great for large parties or a family meal, it is also the perfect spot for hungry shoppers. Enjoy gourmet sandwiches, huge hamburgers, garden fresh salads, pasta dishes, homestyle dinners, and an amazing dessert selection seven days a week, with breakfast served on the weekends.

Whether you’re in the

Dante’s CaliforniaStyle Pizza 9305 Thornton Rd., (209) 474-0221. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

Nestled in the Thornton Plaza shopping center, Dante’s puts a sunny California spin on the standard pepperoni and cheese creation. In fact, most of their pizzas don’t even come with pepperoni or mozzarella.

The name of the restaurant says it all— this is not your authentic Italian pizzeria, so be prepared for specialty pizzas with experimental combinations of unique and exotic toppings. Dante’s offers fourteen different pizzas made with fresh meats and produce, gourmet cheeses, and colorful sauces (the pesto is fantastic). Like pizza joint worth their sauce, take-out and delivery options are also available.

Dave Wong’s Chinese Cuisine 2828 W. March Ln., (209) 951-4152. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

You may already have a favorite Chinese restaurant—everybody does—but if you are in the mood to venture away from habit, hit Dave Wong’s. This longtime Stockton favorite serves up a pleasant combination of Chinese, Cantonese, and Szechwan eats. The broccoli beef, lemon chicken, and fried rice are hands-down favorites. The menu has many traditional dishes, alongside appetizing treats like wok-charred green beans. The muted walls and intimate (yet expandable) quiet candlelit dining chambers reiterate the fact that Dave Wong’s is not your typical Chinese restaurant.

De Vega Brothers 2819 W. March Lane, Ste. A1, (209) 957-3839, www.devegabrothers. com. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$$$

De Vega Brothers has risen from its humble beginnings in a converted A&W stand in Manteca to one of the Valley’s premier Italian restaurants, with expanded locations in both Manteca and Stockton. The Manteca site boasts hand-painted murals of Roman ruins and rustic Italian vistas, while Stockton prides itself on creating an atmosphere of urban elegance with patio dining and live piano music. Both restaurants are known for their generous portions and delicious lamb chops, cioppino, chicken and veal scaloppini, steak, and seafood, as well as their gourmet pastas and sauces.

De Vinci’s 4555 N. Pershing Ave., (209) 957-2750.

No alcohol served. Open for lunch and dinner. $

Old-world Italian eats rule here, where the foccacia and ravioli are homemade.

Red and white checkered tablecloths and an Italian-inspired mural lend distinct charm to this half deli, half restaurant which serves up spectacular sandwiches, rice torta, and pesto. The food may be delicious, but don’t bring a hungry crowd and expect to find a table big enough— this place is best for take-out and catering.

Instead, grab a bag of goodies to go and head over to nearby Victoria Park for a picnic with panache. A downtown Tracy location was recently opened.

Delights Waterfront Coffee Bar and Deli 445 W. Weber Ave., Ste. 126, (209) 462-3401. Beer and Wine. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. $

Delights Waterfront Coffee Bar and Deli is appropriately named, serving up some of the best casual favorites this side of the Delta. With its premium coffee bar, morning starters, salads made to order with the freshest local produce, and the popular tri-tip sandwich that’s grilled daily on the patio by co-owner Rick Gardea, you can’t escape the quiet, peaceful nostalgia that Delights has to offer. Located right on the water in the historic Waterfront Warehouse building, Delights is a visual treat. While they don’t accept reservations, you’ll soon find that it’s not necessary. This restaurant is a relaxed hangout for anybody, from businessmen to students from local colleges and schools.

El Rancho Inn Steak and Lobster House 1457 E. Mariposa Rd., (209) 467-1529. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$$-$$$$

For sixty-eight years, El Rancho Inn has been charming customers with its superior service and delectable dishes. Although most drive by without giving this establishment a second glance, it’s well worth your time to stop in for a meal – try Prime Rib Sundays.

The steak, lobster, and homemade soups are excellent, but be sure to look up from your plate and take in the surroundings. From the cattle brands on the walls to the regulars relaxing at their favorite tables, this country inn is sure to bring a smile to your face as well as warmth to your belly.

February 2009

courtesy Woodbridge Winery

the world.

Woodbridge is able to fill over 1.3 billion bottles annually, with each bottle taking fifteen minutes to complete the entire process from start to finish. Not all wines bottled here are the Woodbridge brand, other labels use the facility as well, but there’s such a volume that it takes one hundred and five bottling-line staff members to fill the demand. —Lauren LaBelle

neighborhood or just hungry for great food, The Creamery Restaurant will be sure to please.

ernie’s on the briCk WAlk

pApApAvlo’s bistro And bAr

296 lincoln Center, (209) 951-3311. Full bar. open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

501 n. lincoln Center, (209) 477-6133, www.papapavlos.com. Full bar. open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Ernie’s has been incorporating classic French technique with abundant Central Valley produce since its doors opened in 1990. Chef and owner Warren Ito was trained at the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco and loves to use his skills to prepare fresh takes on “old classics” for his loyal patrons. The menu ranges from rib eye steak to Australian lamb chops to seasonal fish and pasta dishes to house specialties like the nutty grilled tahini prawns and made-to-order fresh Manila clam chowder. Take your time while perusing the extensive wine list— it’s over one hundred fifty wines long.

gArliC brothers 6629 Embarcadero dr., (209) 474-6585, www.garlic-brothers.com.

Full bar. open for lunch and dinner. $$

Ironically, Garlic Brothers is a spectacular spot for a date, even though the kitchen is known to go heavy on the—you guessed it—garlic. Fun and lively, this restaurant sits right on the water’s edge and boasts delicious garlicky pizzas, pastas, and seafood. Contrary to popular belief, however, anything on the menu can be whipped up without the brothers’ favorite ingredient. Before you leave, roll up your sleeves and dig into a serving of Justy’s Cake—vanilla ice cream on a cookie crust topped with toffee and glazed with caramel and chocolate.

le bistro 3121 W. Benjamin Holt dr., (209) 951-0885, www.lebistrostockton.com. Full bar. open for lunch and dinner. $$$$

This award-winning restaurant is Stockton’s only four-star dining experience. Whether eating lunch or dinner, Le Bistro offers a menu of French Continental cuisine beautifully presented in a stylish and sophisticated setting. This is a luxurious affair, where servers wear tuxedos and the everevolving wine list is like no other. The quiet elegance extends to the outdoor patio as well as four banquet rooms that can accommodate up to two hundred guests. If you are in the mood for an upscale treat, this is the place to go. Check the website for current information about live bands playing in the restaurant’s show room this fall.

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Papapavlo’s Bistro and Bar is considered by many to be one of Northern California’s most unique fine dining establishments located in Stockton’s Lincoln Center. They offer you the finest and freshest in gourmet cuisine and their fabulous menu includes a large variety of continental dishes.

The main dining room has a unique design with a showcase kitchen and bar in warm, classy decor. You’ll find the three outdoor dining patios a perfect place to relax during lunch or dinner.

Papapavlo’s offers four private banquet rooms accommodating groups as intimate as 12 to as large as 100 guests.

Papapavlo’s also specializes in offpremises dining with their outstanding catering services. Papapavlo’s is open Sunday-Thursday 11am to 9pm, Friday and Saturday 11am to 10pm.

pArAgAry’s bAr And grill 110 El dorado st., (209) 943-1110 www.paragarys.com open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

The latest addition to the downtown Stockton Waterfront area, Paragary’s Bar and Grill is a destination in itself. The menu is full of simple American fare with all the right ingredients taken straight from our own Central Valley. The contemporary eatery also features a classic kids menu and surprisingly inexpensive happy hour specials in addition to their lunch, dinner, and dessert offerings.

The Stockton location is part of the Sacramento-based Paragary Restaurant Group, but with tasty offerings like these, we don’t mind sharing.

the shAdoW oAks steAkhouse 7555 pacific Ave. (209) 477-5547. Full bar. open for dinner. $$-$$$$

If you’re looking for a place that knows it’s steak, Shadow Oaks is the spot.

Known for its Kobe beef and Porter House steaks, the Prime Rib, lamb, and veal aren’t the only thing made to perfection at this local restaurant. With pasta, seafood, and salads on the menu as well you’re bound to find something to fall in love with. An incredible selection of wine awaits you at Shadow Oaks, with bottles priced anywhere from $25 to $450. And did we mention the tequila list? Hidden within the

Delta Center for the Arts Spring Calendar of Events Warren Atherton Auditorium Community Band Concert • March 17 Spring Festival of Bands • March 18 Delta Band & Orchestra Festival • March 24 – 25 Delta Symphonic Band Concert • May 5 Spring Festival of Choirs • May 6 Delta Jazz Band Concert • May 13 Stockton Concert Band • May 14 Delta Artsfest • May 16

Tillie Lewis Theatre Creative Vision Artists’ Talk • February 26 Delta Jazz Band Concert • March 11 Reefer Madness • May 1 – 10

Studio Theatre A Midsummer Night’s Dream • February 27 – March 8

LH Horton Jr Gallery Architecture In Art • January 15 – February 11 Creative Vision • February 26 – March 26 Student Art Exhibition & Awards Competition • April 16 – May 13 Delta Artsfest • May 16 San Joaquin Delta College 5151 Pacific Avenue, Stockton Theatre Box Office: (209) 954-5110 LH Horton Jr Gallery: (209) 954-5507 http://www.deltacollege.edu/div/finearts/dept/dca

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Food&Wine >

what’s in season

Bing Cherry Thumbprint Cookies Cherry Jam

1 lb. fresh California Bing cherries, washed

and pitted (about 2 cups)

1/8 cup water

1 tsp. lemon juice

1 tsp. lemon zest, grated

1 cup sugar

Cookie Dough

TASTE OF THE SEASON

by Jennifer Bonnett

Cherries We love this time of year. As the foggy, dreary days of winter get shorter, the trees full of pink and white blossoms give way to the little red pearls of fruit known as the cherry.

While San Joaquin may not be as well-known for our cherry blossoms as Washington, DC, the office of the California Cherry Advisory Board is in downtown Lodi, and it’s getting busy.

With only sixty days between bloom and harvest, as the petals begin blanketing the cherry orchard floor signaling it’s time, hand-pickers rush in with baskets and ladders in-hand.

Did you know the San Joaquin Valley is one of the biggest cherry producers in the state? Most are grown in Linden and east Stockton, although there are some producing trees in rural Lodi as well. In 2007, more

than seventeen thousand acres in San Joaquin County were planted in cherry orchards, the county Agriculture Commissioner reported, and said trees gave us almost fifty-four thousand tons of our favorite snackable fruit.

Although our area is mostly known for its wine grapes, it has become one of the world’s cherry capitals. Last season, nearly five million eighteen-pound cartons were packed with mostly the Bing and Rainer varieties and shipped to distributors across the country— and beyond. Japan is actually one of the area’s biggest export destinations.

While they taste good, cherries are also good for you (and who couldn’t appreciate that?); they contain no fat, and are low in calories and high in potassium. In fact, the little fruit packs such a wallop in vitamins, some doctors tout eating it as pain relief and a prevention for cancer. —Jennifer Bonnett

Bing Cherry Lemonade

1 cup sugar

1 cup water

1 lb. fresh California Bing cherries, washed & pitted (about 2 cups)

1 cup fresh lemon juice

6 cups cold water

Heat sugar and 1 cup water in a small pot until sugar dissolves. Add 1 cup cherries, bring to a boil and boil until the cherries begin to soften, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside to cool.

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

¾ cup sugar

1 egg

1 tsp. vanilla or almond extract

2 cups flour

Preheat oven to 350º

For jam: Combine cherries and water in a small pot and simmer over low heat until fruit is tender, about 10 minutes. Add lemon juice, zest, and sugar and stir gently until sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil and boil rapidly for 10 minutes, stirring on occasion, until thick and syrupy. Pour into a shallow bowl and cool, or alternately refrigerate until jam is set. This can be made a day ahead.

For cookies: Beat butter and sugar with an electric mixer until creamy. Beat in egg and vanilla or almond extract. Add flour, and mix until just combined.

Form dough into 1-inch balls and arrange on an ungreased cookie sheet. Using your thumb, make an impression in the center of each ball. Fill each cookie with cherry jam making sure each has a cherry in the center. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the dough is set and lightly browned on bottom. Remove from pan and cool on a wire rack. Makes 2-3 dozen.

Note: For more uniform cookies, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before forming into balls.

—courtesy California Cherry Advisory Board

Strain cooled cherry syrup into a large pitcher, pressing on the cherries to release their juice. Add lemon juice and cold water. Stir in remaining cherries. Pour over ice and garnish with fresh mint. Makes 2 quarts.

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February 2009

full bar is a variety of tequila bottles, whose respective shots range from $6 a shot to $85. With it’ssophisticated interior, beautiful bar, and live music on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, this casual restaurant offers fine dining without the pomp and circumstance.

Stockton Joe’s 236 Lincoln Center, (209) 951-2980, www.stocktonjoes.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$

Featuring San Franciscan, Italian, and American continental cuisine, this is the place to go for a delicious meal in a casual and relaxed atmosphere. Entrees include charbroiled steaks, fresh seafood, and veal, chicken, and pasta dishes, and have recently extended to offer several hearthealthy options. Stockton Joe’s frequently plays host to a variety of musicians and local artists who entertain diners relaxing in the restaurant’s comfy, padded booths and chairs. Each month, the kitchen selects a featured wine from a local winery, and wine tasting events and wine dinners are held throughout the month.

With exhibition cooking, a banquet hall that can seat up to sixty people, and

catering for all occasions, Stockton Joe’s is a local feature not to be missed.

Taste of Brittany 2041 Pacific Ave. (209) 946-9494 www.tasteofbrittany.com Full bar. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. $-$$

Owner Daniel Peron and Executive Chef Francois Alips, both native from France, create the most authentic classic French cuisine in the Valley. Dishes range from savory crepes made out of buckwheat flour and filled with beef bourguignon, chicken Chardonnay, or smoked salmon, to a variety of omelets made on the griddle, pancakes, and, of course, sweet dessert crepes. Other popular items are the fresh and warm beignets, and a large selection of salads and baguette sandwiches. Sunday Champagne Brunch is also a winner, and at nighttime, try dishes like Muscovy duck breast with raspberry sauce, rack of lamb a la Provencale, veal Normandy, chicken Cordon Bleu, steaks, and fresh fish and seafood. The “Moulin Rouge Cocktail Lounge” offers a full bar with a large selection of French and local wines.

Valley Brewing Company 157 W. Adams St. (209) 464-2739, www.valleybrew.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch, dinner, and weekend breakfast. $-$$

The Valley Brewing Company is a fun place to bring the whole family for dinner: homemade beers, classic pub fare, live bands during the summer, and unique sports memorabilia keep everybody happy. The Brewing Company keeps fourteen beers on tap at all times, from a pale wheat, to an IPA, to the house favorite Black Cat Stout, and apricot and berry fruit beers. Friday is fish night, and Saturday is all about Prime Rib. Beer and scotch tasting events are held throughout the month; check the website for up to the minute information about when the fun’s happening.

Waterloo 10447 E. Waterloo Rd., (209) 931-4019 www.thewaterloo.com. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

At this fun aussie-inspired restaurant, they really know how to mix it up on the barbee. One of their signature dishes is the savory barbecued ribs, served as an appetizer or an entrée.

The ribs, which are best paired with

Bette’s world-famous pesto, are tender to the point of melting away in your mouth. It is likely visitors will find this restaurant bustling when they visit, so during peak hours, be prepared for a lengthy wait. If that doesn’t suit you, they also offer their entire menu for take-out orders, and they even offer catering.

Yasoo Yani 326 E. Main St., (209) 464-3108. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

This downtown restaurant, open since 1975, is a classic eatery where the food is as eclectic as the diners.

Mothers with their toddlers settle in next to prominent businessmen in ties for everything from a sturdy American burger to Greek souvlaki.

Don’t be intimidated by the Greek side of the menu or the local luminaries— souvlaki is simply the Grecian version of shish kebab, served on pita bread, and at Yasoo Yani, everyone gets the same fine family service. Don’t even get us started on the honey-drenched baklava for dessert.

End your frustration with reading glasses

672 West 11th St. (209) 229-7979 Tracy, CA 95376 (209) 229-7978 FAX www.westparkexecutivesuites.com

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Eye Surgeon and Physician Fellow, American Academy of Ophthalmology 303 W. Eaton Ave. • Tracy • 209.836.1155

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Food&Wine > tracy

restaurant guide

Fabio’s

Amore’s 130 W. 11th St., (209) 835-9566. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Anything but bland—that’s Amore’s.

The building that houses this eatery is historic and rustic, which, when combined with the fun decorations and local antiques inside, creates a sense of small-town charm echoed by the friendly service and traditional Italian dishes.

Rigatoni with herb chicken is a house specialty that everybody loves, but the Mediterranean garlic shrimp is a close second. Take your time looking over the menu; it also features a selection of fantastic steaks, pizzas, and salads. Check out the specials offered at the weekly Family Night and Monday Night Football Sports Night celebrations.

Carmen’s Casa Nachos 350 W. Grant Line Rd. (209) 835-9402. Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Want to spice up a dull week? A trip to Carmen’s Casa Nachos family Mexican restaurant should do the trick. Try Carmen’s fantastic fajitas and their specialty salsa seven days a week for lunch and dinner, where they make all of their food fresh everyday. Outdoor dining and a children’s menu are available to accommodate the whole family, while their catering and banquet menus take care of all your special occasion needs.

Turn up the heat at Carmen’s Casa Nachos, where it’s Siempre Caliente!

88 W. 10th St., (209) 836-2012, www.fabios.biz.

Full bar. Open for dinner. $$-$$$

Fabio’s is family owned and operated, and diners appreciate its romantic Italian charm and family-friendly ambiance. Everything on this traditional menu comes highly recommended; the kitchen’s devotion to using only the freshest ingredients makes this a truly memorable affair. Tasty appetizers like carpaccio—thinly sliced beef tenderloin with Parmesan cheese and red onions—and deep-fried calamari, as well as main dishes like chicken picatta and the restaurant’s freshly made soups, pastas, and sauces are handmade from old world family recipes. Don’t skip the dessert; the assorted selections will keep you coming back for more.

Magellan’s 15 E. 6th St. (209) 839-2333, www.magellansworldcuisine.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$$-$$$$

Magellan’s Restaurant, named after owner and Executive Chef Thomas Magellan, is much like the small, intimate restaurants found in San Francisco.

Featuring American Continental cuisine, the menu choices range from duck salad to their salmon burger to the ever popular, delectable filet mignon. The menu changes seasonally and the high level of noise found in some restaurants is not to be found here.

If you are looking for a good traditional meal with peaceful ambiance, seafood specials, and a martini bar to put others to shame, then Magellan’s is the place.

Primrose Lane II, Tea and Crumpets 47 W. 10th St., (209) 830-0175 www.primroselane2.com Wine and beer. Open for lunch, Saturday breakfast and dinner. $

Known for its traditional high tea, Primrose Lane II Tea & Crumpets offers a three-tier tray filled with scrumptious scones endorsed by Kathy Griffin, savory snacks, cheese and crackers, fruit, finger sandwiches, and delectable minidesserts, along with your choice of more than forty different tea varieties and homemade soups and salads. Enjoy lunch or a traditional meal seven days a week.

The tea room hosts private and themed parties, and has a complete catering menu for parties of any size. Primrose Lane II Tea & Crumpets is truly a unique tea room filled with eclectic décor, unique tea blends and flavorful foods, all of which are perfect for that special occasion or to simply chat with close friends.

Thai Café 614 Central Ave., (209) 832-3800. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

More practical than fussy, Thai Café is the place to go when the craving for good Thai food, fast, strikes. This little place manages to stay afloat despite some stiff competition from surrounding restaurants, perhaps in part to a large following of loyal customers. Regulars rave about the Thai Chicken Salad and Salad Kai, but if you are in the mood for something a little heavier, go ahead and try the Koa Paad—deep-fried rice served with your choice of meats. The colorful Thai decorations set the mood

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Tracy Thai 1035 Central Ave., (209) 833-9703. Beer and wine. Open for lunch and dinner. $-$$

Tracy Thai successfully captures the unique and complex flavors Thai food is famous for. Using only fresh, quality ingredients, their food has artistic presentation and exceptional flavor, from mouth-watering appetizers like their heavenly Angel Wings (boneless chicken wings stuffed with silver noodles), to their soups served in a flaming tureen that keeps it warm throughout the meal. Tracy Thai prepares imaginative creations for those with adventurous tastes, and also familiar favorites for those who have never experienced Thai food before.

Bartoni’s at The Great Plate 714 Central Ave., (209) 833-0862, www.thegreatplate.com.

Full bar. Open for lunch and dinner. $$

Two of Tracy’s favorite establishments are blending into one exciting destination.

Bartoni’s long list of fans will be excited by his return to downtown Tracy. Come and enjoy the best of both worlds! All The Great Plate favorites along with Bartoni’s sensations are available in a relaxed dining atmosphere. Choose a selection from the extensive wine list to compliment any item. Lunch, dinner and appetizers are available 7 days a week along with a full bar and 16 beers on tap. Fresh pastas, Certified Angus steaks, gourmet pizzas, famous hot wings, excellent burgers, and so much more! Catering is also available.

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Woodbridge Crossing 18939 N. Lower Sacramento Rd. (209) 366-1800, www. woodbridgecrossing.net. Full bar. Open for dinner and Sunday Brunch. $-$$

Housed in one of the oldest brick buildings in the San Joaquin Valley, this historic restaurant, formerly Woodbridge Feed and Fuel, provides fine dining in the midst of antiques, Western artwork, and memorabilia. Known for their prime rib and steak, this restaurant strives for great customer service. Woodbridge Crossing diners are treated to live entertainment and dancing on the weekends, and the restaurant also offers private banquet facilities where guests sit in unique old boxcars. SJM

February 2009

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Art s & Cult ure Upcoming Events

Artwork by Bao Cha Grade 12, Bear Creek High, Lodi Winner of a 2008 McKee Student Art Contest award

Through February 11: Architecture in Art Sculptures by Randy Dixon and paintings by Thomas Morphis.

LH Horton Jr Gallery, Delta College, Stockton, (209) 954-5507

IN THE SPOTLIGHT:

Through February 14: Local Artists at the Grand The City of Tracy Cultural Arts Division presents two new exhibitions at the Grand Galleries, “Oceans: Anné M. Klint” and the Expressions! Juror spotlight exhibition, “PostColumbian: Ceramics by Joe Mariscal.”

Grand Theatre, Tracy, (209) 831-6TKT, www.atthegrand.org

Haggin museum

For 78 years, the Haggin Museum has not only had fine art and local history artifacts on display, but also art works by local students. The annual Robert T. McKee Student Art Contest and Exhibition is now the longest-running student art exhibition in the country, and this year will be on display at the museum February 7 through April 5.

The annual display is named after one of the museum’s founding individuals. Robert T. McKee was the son of a pioneer family in Stockton who was so determined to pursue his interest in art that he traveled by steamboat twice a week to attend art school in San Francisco. After his wife, Eila Haggin McKee, donated her father’s art collection (and provided the museum with its name), Robert T. McKee wanted an annual display of student artwork that would encourage young San Joaquin County students like himself to pursue their interest in art.

The number of entries in the show is more impressive every year, with last year’s show totaling more than 1,300 works of art by students in kindergarten through twelfth grade.

An opening reception Saturday, February 7, 1:30 to 3 p.m., will feature music, punch and cookies, and if past years are any indication, it will be the most-visited day of the year at the museum. A gallery talk Thursday, February 19, 7 p.m.,

by Curator of Education Lisa Cooperman and special guest teachers will focus on the stages of visual development evident in the show.

Through February: 5th Annual High School Student Art Show A juried art show of works created by Stockton area high school students in a wide variety of categories. Wine and hors d’oeuvres reception and awards presentation February 13, 5-8 p.m.

Tidewater Gallery, Stockton, (209) 463-4033, www.tidewaterartgallery.com February 5-7: An Adult Evening of Shel Silverstein Cartoonist, musician, poet, Grammy-winning songwriter, screenwriter, and author of children’s books, Shel Silverstein was truly a renaissance sort of chap. Take a ride into this eclectic evening of comedy, song, and risqué, often wacky, satire. Note: Mature language and themes. $20 per person. 8:30 p.m.

Grand Theatre, Tracy, (209) 832-6TKT, www.atthegrand.org February 6: Annual Souper Supper Fundraiser This annual benefit features savory soups prepared and served by Tidewater artists and Board of Directors members. Each guest receives a souvenir pottery soup bowl created by potters of the gallery. $40 per person. Soup at 5:30 followed by a live auction at 6:30, at the Scottish Rite Center, 33 E. Alpine Ave., Stockton. Call for reservations.

Tidewater Gallery, Stockton, (209) 463-4033 February 7: Franc D’Ambrosio’s “Hollywood” Experience the world’s longest running “Phantom.” Join Franc D’Ambrosio from Phantom of the Opera fame as he pays tribute to Hollywood’s best music. $32-$52 per person. 8 p.m. Grand Theatre, Tracy, (209) 832-6TKT, www.atthegrand.org

February 7 - April 5: 78th Annual McKee Student Art Contest & Exhibition San Joaquin youth display their works in the longest-running student art show.

The Haggin Museum, Stockton, (209) 9406315, www.hagginmuseum.org February 14: Heartbreaker: A Live Rock Tribute to Led Zeppelin This rock tribute to Led Zeppelin is a live recreation of an actual concert, and will highlight the greatest and most popular music of their career, including “Stairway to Heaven,” “Rock and Roll,” “Whole Lotta Love,” “Black Dog,” and many more. $40 per person.

8 p.m. Grand Theatre, Tracy, (209) 832-6TKT, www.atthegrand.org February 26 - 28: And The Winner Is… The comic story of a self-obsessed actor who is finally nominated for an Oscar and dies the night before the awards comes to the Grand.

Outraged and determined to know if he wins (even though he’s dead), he bargains to return to earth for the big night. Tickets $16-$20.

8:30 p.m. Grand Theatre, Tracy, (209) 8326TKT, www.atthegrand.org February 26 - March 26: Creative Vision An exhibition featuring artwork from Charles Blackwell, Pete Eckert, Carmelo Gannello, Michael Jameson, Scott Nelson, Kurt Weston, and Alice Wingwall.

LH Horton Jr Gallery, Delta College, Stockton, (209) 954-5507 March 2 - April 25: Quietude: Paintings of the High Sierras A special show of landscape paintings by nine artists who mule-packed into the High Sierras.

Tues.-Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Knowlton Gallery, Lodi, (209) 368-5123, www.knowltongallery. com Third Thursday of each month: Modesto Art Walk Visit Trey Reed Fine Art Gallery during the Modesto Art Walk, when participating downtown Modesto businesses and art spaces showcase local art. Enjoy Champagne and hors d’oeuvres. 6-9 p.m. Trey Reed Fine Art Gallery, 910 N Street, Modesto, (209) 8460429, www.treyreedfineart.com

For more information: Haggin Museum, 1201 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton, (209) 940-6300, www.hagginmuseum.org

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February 2009

78th Annual Student Art Contest & Exhibition

t XXX IBHHJONVTFVN PSH LH Horton Jr Gallery Creative Vision: An Exhibition on Vision and Perception February 26 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; March 26, 2009

Exhibiting Artists Ch a r l es Bl a c kw e l l Pet e E c ker t Ca r m el o Ga nne l l o M i ch a e l Ja me s on Sc ot t Ne l s o n The Artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inner Eye Carmelo Gannello

Delta Center for the Arts From the Garden by Janette Jones 115 S. School Street, Lodi 209-368-5123 â&#x20AC;˘ www.KnowltonGallery.com

Trey Reed Fine Arts

Address 910 N Street Modesto (by appointment only) Gallery 209.846.0429 Cell 209.405.8266 treyreedfineart.com

LH Horton Jr Gallery Warren Atherton Auditorium Tillie Lewis Theatre Studio Theatre

Al i c e W i ng w a l l San Joaquin Delta College 5151 Pacific Avenue Stockton, CA 95207-6370 209.954.5507 deltacollege.edu/div/finearts

TICKETS: 209-831-6TKT (6858) www.atthegrand.org BOX OFFICE: Mon-Sat, 10 AM-6 PM

Grandcoming Theatre Center for Arts Grand Look whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tothethe

Modesto Art Walk 3rd Thursday of every month from 6-9pm Enjoy champagne, hors d'oeuvres and fine art

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K ur t We s t on

715 Central Avenue, Tracy

Season Pre

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datebook >

event calendar

Ten Great Dates

compiled by Amanda Rife

Chinese and Vietnamese New Year Parade February 28, Stockton Come rain or shine, the seventh annual Chinese and Vietnamese New Year Parade will tour over one and a half miles of downtown Stockton, starting at Sutter and Washington and ending on Lafayette Street. With lion dancing, marching bands, martial art displays, floats, and costumed entertainers, this parade will be bringing in the year of the ox in true cultural fashion.

12 p.m. Free. Sutter and Washington Streets, Stockton, www.stocktoncvnp.com

Girls Night Out February 6, Murphys A fundraising event to benefit the local Calaveras County Women’s Crisis Shelter, Girls Night Out features beauty treatments provided by local day spas and salons, a fashion show, games, wine tasting, and a cooking demonstration by Ironstone Executive Chef James Lehman, who also teaches Ironstone’s popular cooking classes. Donations of toiletries (such as shampoo, toilet paper, and diapers) earn you the chance to win prizes.

7-10 p.m. $35. Ironstone Vineyards, 1894 Six Mile Rd., Murphys, (209) 728-1251, www. ironstonevineyards.com

Souper Supper Fundraiser February 6, Stockton Tidewater Art Center and Gallery invites one and all to the Souper Supper and Auction benefit to enjoy dinner served by Tidewater artists and Board of Director members. Eight different soups will be offered, along with

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fresh bread, desserts, and fine wine, followed by a live auction featuring prizes like vacation getaways, dinners at local restaurants, and artwork from Tidewater artists. Each attendee will take home a bowl created by Tidewater potters, and all proceeds help Tidewater Gallery continue to offer exhibits and art classes to the local community. 5:30 p.m. $40 donation per person, tables of 8 may be reserved for $250. Scottish Rite Center, 33 W. Alpine Ave., Stockton, (209) 463-4033, www.tidewaterartgallery.com

Heartbreaker: A Live Rock Tribute to Led Zeppelin February 14, Tracy What better way to celebrate the day of love than by watching one of the greatest labors of love? Heartbreaker, a Californiabased tribute band dedicated to emulating the late and great Led Zeppelin brings three decades of solid gold to the Grand Theatre’s stage. Heartbreaker highlights some of the band’s best in this recreation of an actual Led Zeppelin concert, with classics such as “Dancing Days,” Black Dog,” and “Stairway to Heaven.” 8 p.m. $40. Grand Theatre Center For The Arts, 715 Central St., Tracy, (209) 831-6TKT, www.atthegrand.org

February 2009

frAnC d’Ambrosio’s “hollyWood” february 7, tracy

february 14-15, Lodi

Renowned Broadway singer Franc

This Valentine’s weekend, the twelfth

d’Ambrosio will be performing a

annual lodi Wine and Chocolate Weekend

tributary concert to some of Hollywood’s

will have you hopping from one winery to

best music, such as “singing in the

the next, tasting the best lodi wines and

Rain,” “moon River,” “danny Boy,” and

savoring various chocolate treats. Over

“Enchanted Evening.” d’Ambrosio is most

thirty wineries will be hosting the event,

famous for being the “longest running

with wine and food pairings, barrel tastings,

phantom,” in over 3,000 showings of

live music, and a Wine Country Getaway to

Andrew lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera. His latest show, appropriately

the person who finds the “Golden Ticket” (a la Willy Wonka). 11 a.m- 4 p.m. $35 in

titled “Hollywood,” spotlights the music

advance, $45 at the door, designated

that has been imortalized thanks to

drivers attend for free. participating

the silver screen. 8 p.m. $32-$53.

winery maps available online. Various

Grand Theatre Center For The Arts, 715 Central St., Tracy, (209) 831-6TKT, www. atthegrand.org

ArChiteCture in Art through february 11, stockton

pHoTos lEFT To RIGHT: CoURTEsY HAGGIn mUsEUm, CoURTEsY GRAnd THEATRE

Wine And ChoColAte Weekend

locations in Lodi, (209) 367-4727, www. lodiwineandchocolate.com

pedAling pAths to independenCe february 21, Linden

In the middle of the lH Horton Jr Gallery’s

since 1949, the Community Center for the

promising 2008-09 exhibition series

Blind has been hosting events to help “light

is “Architecture in Art,” featuring the

the path to independence” for the visually

sculptures of Randy dixon and the

impaired. A tri-county 100k and 50k bike

paintings of Thomas morphis shown

ride (62 and 25 miles respectively), pedaling

together. Though different in medium

paths hopes to raise both awareness

and style, the respective artists share

and funds. Both routes leave linden and

themes of architecture and structure—an

wind their own respective ways through

experienced architect, dixon’s sculptures

vineyards and orchards, on flat country

are well-complimented by the strong

roads equipped with fully-stocked rest

framework forms found within Thomas

stops and lunch stations. Check-in at 8:30

morphis’s paintings. Free. LH Horton Jr Gallery, Delta College, 5151 Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 954-5507

roCk your vAlentine

a.m., all bikers must be on the road by 10:00 a.m. $35 before Feb. 8, $40 afterwards.

Linden Elementary School, 18100 E. Front St., Linden, (209) 466-3836, www. communitycenterfortheblind.org

february 14, Lodi Cupid has found his way to oak Ridge

CinemA itAliA

Winery this Valentine’s day for the

february 21-23, stockton

Rotary Rocks! Your Valentine event.

The san Joaquin Film society brings to

sweep your sweetie off her feet with this

stockton yet another film event, this time

elegant dinner featuring wines from local

in the form of Cinema Italia, a festival

vintners and a fully stocked, no-host bar.

screening some of Italy’s finest filmmakers.

local blues and classic rock band Vine

Three feature films and six short films will be

dawgz will serenade the night away with

shown over the course of the weekend, with

music from classic artists such as Van

silvio soldini’s critically-acclaimed 2008 film,

morrison, The Beatles, B.B. King, and

Days and Clouds, showing at the opening

Jimmy Buffett, to name a few. 6 p.m.-12

night spring Gala. The gala will offer dinner

a.m. $125 per couple. Oak Ridge Winery,

from Cibo di Vino. Times vary, depending on

6100 E. Hwy 12, Lodi, (209) 518-1331, www.

day and film. spring Gala begins at 6 p.m.

lodisunriserotary.org

$7-$9 per day, not including opening night.

Empire Theatre, 1825 Pacific Ave., Stockton,



Subscribe Online Today sanjoaquinmagazine.com

(209) 943-7469, www.sjiff.org sJm

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Out and About >

players, parties, and premieres

1

2

3 3

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United Way Fundraiser Event The Van Ruiten Family Winery poured at Stockton’s Le Bistro restaurant on November 12 to help out the United Way of San Joaquin County’s fundraiser event.

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1. Andy and Carole Prokop 2. Chuck Pacheco, Lisa and Michael Kerner 3. Nikki Beasley and Ella Holman 4. Jan and Lynne Swanson 5. Roger Todd, Greg May, and David Silva 6. Joe Harrington, Kerry Moquett, Rod Addington 7. Alan Ray and Tim Daly 8. Robin Kato, Donna Ng, Mary Luna

Over seventy decorated Christmas trees were featured at the seventeenth annual Festival of Trees at the San Joaquin County Historical Museum, in Lodi’s Micke Grove Park.

1. Allen Mooney, Joann Esteves 2. Elsa Bates, Herbert Gottschalk 3. Wood worker 4. Gabrielle Franke, Kendra Thomason

3

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4

February 2009

Brenda Hartshorn, AManda Rife

Festival of Trees: San Joaquin Historical Museum

Festival of Trees: Tracy 1 2

Sutter Tracy Community Hospital Foundation’s fourteenth annual Festival of Trees was held over the weekend of November 20-22.

With the theme of “A Family Tradition,” hundreds of children and adults were entertained with holiday delights.

1. Dr. Phillip Yu and Jean Yu 2. Maria and Paul Lopez, Brian and Sarah Campbell 3. Brent and Lynda Ives 4. Dr. David and Donna Moline 5. Alice and Dennis Alegre 6. Pam and Bob Schaible

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Brenda Hartshorn, AManda RIfe

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Stockton Chamber Athena Award Luncheon

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This year’s Athena Award, honoring professional women who help to create a better environment for fellow women, was presented to Mary Bava at the annual Athena Luncheon on November 13 at the Stockton Golf and Country Club.

1. Timm Quinn, Monica Slingerman 2. Kent Hohlfeld, Teri Manley 3. James de Rin, Linda Verdun Brown 4. Teri Bentz, Judith Jones

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Out and About >

players, parties, and premieres

1

2

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The First Sip Over thirty wineries opened their doors for wine sampling of this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first vintages, cellar tours, and live entertainment during Lodiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Sip event November 8-9.

1. David Phillips, Kim Anglent, and Robert Anglent at Michael-David Winery

5

2. Vic Mettler from vMv at the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center 3. Kevin Finn and Denise Finn at Macchia 4. Taylor Kininmath and Ashraf Miqbel from Pasos Vineyards at Vino Piazza 5. Shaun MacKay and Brody Olds of Harmony Wynelands Brenda Hartshorn

6. AJ Petruzzi and Wendy Petruzzi at Vino Con Brio

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san joaquin magazine

February 2009

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