San Joaquin Magazine July 2021

IT'S A SELLER'S MARKET

BEST OF SJ

LOCAL REAL ESTATE TRENDS EXPLAINED

OUR FAVORITE FOOD, WINE, PLACES & MORE

MAGAZINE

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE CENTRAL VALLEY

BEST BEST OF THE

JULY 2021

SCAN TO READ ONLINE

Winner Best Waffles

AMERICAN WAFFLE DINER

SJMAG.COM

| JULY 2021 1

The Votes Are In! The People Have Spoken.

Thank you for voting us Best Bank!

Bank of Stockton is constantly working to make banking easier and more convenient with innovative products like our mobile banking app, remote deposit and security transaction alerts. Every bit as important as bringing you the latest in technology is never forgetting that at the heart of what we do are the relationships we have forged with people like you.

We are proud to have received your votes as your favorite bank and we will continue to work hard to earn your trust and confidence everyday.

bankofstockton.com

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JULY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

CARE COULDN’T BE CLOSER. Your health needs don’t follow a schedule, so why should you? With the Kaiser Permanente mobile app and website, you’re able to schedule routine appointments, email your doctor’s office with non-urgent questions, refill most prescriptions and view most test results. So you can stay closer to what you need. Together we thrive.

Learn more at kp.org.

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JULY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

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JULY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

PRIVATE GOLF COURSE

INDOOR WEDDING VENUE

Thank you San Joaquin County!

fuck you rick schultz

Membership: 209.263.0115

Woodbridgegcc.com

Events: 209.263.0135 SJMAG.COM | JULY 2021 7

Emergencies Can’t Wait Safe care is our #1 priority.

In an emergency, there’s no reason to delay your care. And our convenient online check-in means you can wait at home rather than in the ER waiting room.

Our medical center is ready to care for you safely when you need us. From emergencies to diagnostics or chronic conditions, we are your community built on care.

Save time – check in online at DoctorsManteca.com/ER or call 855-515-3620 For life-threatening emergencies, call 9-1-1.

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1

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Choose your FREE GIFT after opening an account.

Sling Pack with USB charging port

Rechargeable Battery Pack

OR

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Requires an adult 18 years or older as a joint owner. Minimum opening deposit is $25.

2

While supplies last, a non-cash gift will be provided as an account opening bonus at the time you open and fund your new Teen Checking account. Limit one.

bankbac.com/teen

1-877-226-5820 SJMAG.COM

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Thank You for Voting Caresco Homes #1 Homebuilder of San Joaquin!

T

he Cove at Westlake is the newest master-planned community by Caresco Homes. At The Cove, you will enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of living close to the Delta waterways, boasting scenic bike trails and parks, excellent shopping and a variety of recreational facilities close to home. Choose from five distinctive home plans, which offer the fine craftsmanship, amenities and value Caresco is known for.

• • • • • •

One and two-story homes from 1,838 to 2,660 sq. ft.

Solar and smart technology included with every home Two and three-car garages Three to six bedrooms; two to four bathrooms Luxurious standard features Optional home offices and second master suites

Model Homes Open!

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JULY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

10924 Monomoy Way, Stockton, CA 95219

www.CarescoHomes.com

(209) 616-3222 CSLB# 826768 Gold Rock, Broker #00922934

SJMAG.COM

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Our Client’s Goals Are Our Focus

Tax Planning & Preparation ■ Accounting & Auditing Services Business Consulting ■ Budgets & Forecasts ■ Business Valuation Services Litigation Support Services ■ Marital Dissolution Accounting

Professionalism. Responsiveness. Quality.

Dedicated to serving the community since 1978

Thank you to our Wonderful Clients for Voting us #1 for Best Accounting Firm!

3031 W. March Ln., Ste. 300E ■ Stockton, CA 95219 • (209) 957-3691 ■ www.iacopi.com 14

JULY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

Thank You Readers!

FOR VOTING KROLOFF THE BEST LAW FIRM IN 2021 Kroloff, Belcher, Smart, Perry & Christopherson, founded in 1946, is one of the oldest, most respected law firms in San Joaquin County.

It is our people that make the difference. At Kroloff you’ll find experience, integrity and a commitment to excellence in every aspect of the practice of law.

WE ARE ALWAYS ON THE RIGHT SIDE — Yours.

Business | Litigation | Trusts & Estates | Employment Law 7540 Shoreline Dr., Stockton, CA 95219

T: 209.478.2000

F: 209.478.0354

KROLOFF.COM SJMAG.COM

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JULY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

Thank You For Voting Me #1 Realtor In San Joaquin!

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL CA REALTOR LIC #01987449 CORNERSTONE REAL ESTATE GROUP

209-986-9292 L E A R N M O R E AT L A N C E M C H A N . C O M

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JULY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

It’s how we live and breathe health. Together.

Congratulations to all the winners of San Joaquin Magazine’s Best of San Joaquin, including: Family Health Practice, First Place Urgent Care, First Place It’s a thousand things, big and small. sutterhealth.org/sgmf SJMAG.COM

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Thank You for voting Kids Care Dental & Orthodontics

BEST CHILDREN’S DENTIST 8 years in a row!

At Kids Care Dental & Orthodontics, we’re fanatical about creating a lifetime of happy smiles. That’s why we’re a practice for kids.

We’ve set up a different kind of dental practice that delivers fun, not fear. So your kids get stress-free dental visits—and beautiful, giggly smiles.

schedule y online! instantl

209.729.0214 20

S TO C K TO N / LO D I / T R A C Y/ M A N T EC A / M O D E S TO/ T U R LO C K

JULY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

Our services: preventive Care dental X-rays cleanings braces and invisalign treatment

Thank you for voting us Best of San Joaquin again!

Best Pet Boarding Best Dog Trainer Best Groomer

BOARDING, TRAINING & GROOMING A park-like setting for your canine family member’s next vacation!

209.931.0758

Email: contactus@canineculture.com

9751 N. Highway 99, Stockton CA 95212

www.CanineCulture.com SJMAG.COM | JULY 2021 21 Visit our website for more information and videos of our beautiful property!

Contents Features 33

JULY 2021

FIT TIPS WITH BETHANY DAVIS

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Squats, running, upper body workouts, core strengthening, adorable videos of her vibrant children…when you first check out Bethany Davis’ social media, it’s impossible not to be impressed. This powerhouse entrepreneur, mom of five, and wife of a police officer loves helping others. She’s been a fitness resource online since 2006, sharing videos and content, with the goal of educating people so that they, too, can create and enjoy the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Authentic, realistic, and warm, Bethany instantly attracts followers because she understands and lives the same struggle that we all do – trying to balance her busy life and the lives of her family, while still making time to take care of her health. BY ANGELA RUDOLPH

50 BEST OF

After a year of shutdowns and pandemic living, we’re emerging with a new positive outlook on life in San Joaquin County. Many of our local businesses, especially those in the food, drink, and entertainment industry, have suffered, and some haven’t made it to the other side. We’re looking forward and celebrating the businesses still driving SJC forward, with recommendations and accolades doled out by our readers. Whether you’re looking for the best place to grab a margarita or the best place to enroll your child in a dance class, we’ve got you covered with a curated list of SJC’s BEST businesses—decided by you! BY SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE TEAM

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TO SPEND 72 NEAR-PERFECT HOURS 110 HOW IN NAPA VALLEY

Let’s be honest, we could spend weeks exploring every nook and cranny of this gorgeous, vino-filled valley brimming with more than 375 wineries ripe with the local bounty. However, most of us don’t have the time, or the liver capacity, to escape for that long. So, instead we curated a near-perfect threeday itinerary to help you explore the best Napa Valley has to offer from food to wine to nightlife and more. One big lesson learned in visiting Napa is it can take 30 minutes to cross one side of the valley to the other, so location is key. Instead of blindly googling “best wineries in Napa,” follow our route to make the most of your never-enough-time in the Valley. BY NORA HESTON

110

TARTE

119 A FAMILY AFFAIR

As long as it’s existed, Don Luis Mexican Restaurant has been a family business. Formerly owned by Chef and Owner Cuahtemoc (Cuate) Rivera’s in-laws (who also own Casa Flores), Cuate took over in 2004. Since then, he’s made a lot of changes, but about 30 percent of the menu stays true to the original, inspired by the Mercado-Herrera and Flores families he married into. BY NORA HESTON TARTE

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119

ELITE SMILES BY

TODD A. FRANKLIN, D.D.S.

1208 W. Tokay St. • Lodi, CA 95240

Call today: 209.334.4370

Learn more about Dr. Franklin and his talented team by visiting www.ToddFranklinDDS.com SJMAG.COM

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Contents

JULY 2021

48

XX

THE 209

36 IT’S A SELLER’S MARKET Trends in SJC real estate 38 NO WHINE AND PAINT

Mini Picassos get their art on

40 ALL-ACCESS TO THE GREAT OUTDOORS Schedule your summer adventure

40 DO IT FOR THE ‘GRAM Instagram-worthy SJC 48 TAHITIAN TRADITION Learn traditional Ori Tahiti dance

SENIOR 105 WHERE THERE’S A WILL, THERE’S A WAY Financial advice from the experts

44 TAKE A SWING AT IT Become a golfer with help from locals 46 COMPOUNDING 101 Why it’s good for consumers

WINE DINE 209 122 GET THE DISH What’s new in the SJC food

and wine scene 124 BATTLE OF THE WINE GLASSES Become a connoisseur

NEXT ISSUE

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130

136 126 LATE NIGHT BITES Michael’s Pizza has a

new menu

136 FAST FOODIES Michael Midgley elevates

fast food fare

128 HOT DIGGITY DOG! July is National Hot Dog Month

138 BUILD-YOUR-OWN BRUNCH BOARD And make it look as

good as it tastes

130 THE NEXT MARGARITAVILLE Tia Linda’s is slaying the local margarita game 132 TRENDING: LOCAL SELTZERS

The first California Seltzery opens in Lodi 134 IN SEASON

Baby Back Ribs, Ultimate BBQ Cheeseburger, and Tri-Tip

IN EVERY ISSUE 26 Publisher’s Note 137 Dining Guide

st Be

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ANNUAL PET ISSUE • SPECIAL HOME SECTION • THEME PARKS

JULY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

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from the publisher

SIMPLY THE BEST—

BETTER THAN ALL THE REST Our BIG annual BEST OF issue is hot off of the presses.

READ OUR

FREE

DIGITAL EDITION

@ SJMAG.com

Every year we look forward to tallying up the votes and paying our respects to San Joaquin County’s favorite businesses (as voted by our readers), so whether you’re looking for a recommendation for an HVAC repairman or a new school to enroll your kiddos into, our pages are brimming with suggestions from our neighbors; after all, who else would you rather ask for an opinion?

After an off year, our Best Of businesses represent the cream of the crop—and the businesses that have survived one of the most trying years possible (when not all of our favorites did). As some small businesses said farewell in 2020-2021, others were able to pull through with the love and support of the community, and those who we respect most are splattered across our pages for all to see—and support.

While the situation is certainly looking up, now is not the time to stop showing our love to local businesses while they make a rebound in 2021. Help out by getting out there and ordering a coffee from a local shop or hiring a neighborhood contractor to assist with an interior redesign.

We also would like to note that our Best Of businesses are 100 percent chosen by voters. Every year, we encourage readers and local businesses encourage their customers to cast votes for their favorites across hundreds of categories.

The end result is a perfectly curated list, spanning categories such as parenting, services, shopping, and more, of the best San Joaquin County has to offer. And as always, we’ve added some additional categories in 2021 (and pulled a few that didn’t feel as relevant in a pandemic year). Can you spot the newbies?

Happy reading!

TONY ZOCCOLI

tony@sanjoaquinmagazine.com

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JULY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

LAST THOUGHTS CALIFORNIA REOPENS From the purple tier to the red tier, phase one to phase four, it feels like the state has been “reopening” (and reclosing) on and off for about 13 months. June 15, however, marked a big milestone for the state—and San Joaquin County—as additional restrictions were lifted. As a result, we’re experiencing indoor dining, loosened capacity restrictions, and new mask mandates throughout SJC.

THE RETURN OF TRAVEL That June 15 date also marked a milestone for those traveling to and throughout California.

With more freedoms, we’re guaranteed to see more people flooding into our cities, especially for the return of events that have long been halted.

That being said, it also opens the doors for residents to move freely about the state. Looking to celebrate with a weekend getaway? We recommend taking a peek at Napa Valley (pg. 110)

Where the Good Life is YOUR Life.

.. .. .. ..

Top-Ranked Schools Acres of Parks 13 Lakes Farmers Market Boating Lakeside Restaurant Sports Fields San Joaquin River Trail

At River Islands, you can live your best life.

Explore 10 new home neighborhoods, 20 furnished models and everything else life here has to offer.

SOMERSTON PRWY

RIVER ISLANDS I-5 LA

KE

SID

ED

R

LATHROP

STE

WA RT

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RD

RD

TH

AN

I-5

E

AL

M

M

O

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RD

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RIVER ISLANDS

Text RIMOBILE to 797979 for direct links to download our free App with directions to the Welcome Center and all the model home neighborhoods!

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY (209) 808-5168

1-205

All neighborhood offerings, amenities and features are subject to change without notice. Map not to scale. Prices effective as of deadline of publication.

RiverIslands.com

SJMAG.COM

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Let their smiles shine like never before.

PUBLISHER | EDITOR Tony Zoccoli

EDITORIAL

MANAGING EDITOR:

Nora Heston Tarte FOOD & WINE EDITOR: Suzanne Ledbetter TRAVEL EDITOR: Nora Heston Tarte REGULAR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

Deirdre Carlson, Faith Lewis, Megan Meintasis, Jennifer Morrow, Angela Rudolph CREATIVE

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Sybil Watson ASSOCIATE DESIGNER: Lucas Zoccoli CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Dan Hood, Ponnie Jackson, Tim Ulmer MARKETING

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

Michelle Cox SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

Neelam Patel ADVERTISING

CIRCULATION DISTRIBUTION Rebecca Ristrim SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE PUBLICATION FAMILY

MAGAZINE

available anytime, anywhere.

SJMAG.com Digital Edition 28

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SALES OFFICE SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE 318 W. Pine Street, Lodi, CA 95240 Phone: 209) 833-9989

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA facebook.com/sanjoaquinmagazine Twitter: @SANJOAQUINMAG Instagram: SANJOAQUINMAG issuu.com/sanjoaquinmagazine © 2020 Inside Magazines Publishing Company

ALWAYS PRINTED IN THE USA

“Our Mission” Improve the lives of patients through excellent Cardiovascular education, prevention, and the highest quality care.

• Complete cardiovascular care from prevention to intervention.

• Recognized expert in sport cardiology in USA and internationally.

• Cardiovascular leadership at State and National level.

N O W O P E N I N L O D I 1210 W Tokay St. 209.370.3580 S TO C K TO N : 2633 Pacific Ave. 209.944.5530

www.drmanshadi.com

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| JULY 2021 29

The Law Offices of

LAWRENCE KNAPP 250 Dorris Place • Stockton, 95204

209-645-1011 • www.LmkLaw.net

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscribing to San Joaquin Magazine ensures that every month you will receive our latest edition right in your mail box. Although we distribute copies to hundreds of area pickup locations, our publication is in high demand and locations often run out quickly.

12 ISSUES FOR ONLY $9.95 12 ISSUES), OR $14.95 24 ISSUES)

Subscriptions available through our website at SJMAG.COM, so you don’t miss another issue!

Lawrence M. Knapp

JUSTICE IS LOCAL.

YOUR LAWYER SHOULD BE TOO.

Established in 1993, we have been representing San Joaquin Valley community members and their families for more than 20 years in catastrophic injury cases. Our offices are in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley, not Los Angeles or San Francisco. We are well versed in the local rules and have a deep knowledge of the arbitrators, judges and court system. This unique knowledge and ability to navigate the local system has produced more successful results for our clients. We intend to maintain our status as the leading personal injury firm in the Central Vally by extending our service capabilities and our local presence to meet our client’s needs.

GET

Big

Results THE ESSENTIAL LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR LIVING IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY

DOWNLOAD OUR 2020 MEDIA KIT & PLANNING CALENDAR TODAY

SJMAG.COM

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Story ideas, manuscripts, or comments can be emailed directly to the managing editor.

Please include your name, daytime phone number, and email address.

E-mail NORA@SJMAG.COM WRITER’S GUIDELINES San Joaquin Magazine is always on the lookout for story ideas and talented freelance writers.

To suggest a story idea, email us at NORA@SJMAG. COM. San Joaquin Magazine also accepts freelance contributions, however, there is no guarantee that manuscripts or photography, solicited or unsolicited, will be returned.

ADVERTISING San Joaquin Magazine offers businesses the most cost-effective way to reach area residents throughout the county. We offer multiple opportunities to achieve the results your business desires. With over 16 years of magazine publishing experience and multiple publications to choose from, it’s no wonder residents continuously look to our family of publications.

Visit the ADVERTISE link on our website or call 209.833.9989 to request a printed media kit.

SPONSORSHIP San Joaquin Magazine prides itself in actively supporting organizations that make the city a better place to live and work. If you wish to partner with us and would like more information, please contact TONY ZOCCOLI, PUBLISHER TONY@SJMAG.COM

ADVERTISING / EDITORIAL OFFICES

MAGAZINE

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JULY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

SALES OFFICE SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE 318 W. Pine Street, Lodi, CA 95240 Phone: 209) 833-9989

Maywell L. Inong, DDS General & Cosmetic Dentistry

While many things have changed... one thing remains the same... our commitment to your safety. enhanced infection control protocols and equipment for COVID-19

New

patients welcome

Smile with Confidence

Dental Care for Adults & Children

209-477-9105

Certified “Pinhole Surgical Technique” Doctor Scapel-Free & Suture-Free Gum Rejuvenation for Recession.

www.inongdental.com

4568 Feather River Drive, Suite E Stockton, CA

The Kitto Family has been cleaning clothes for Stockton since 1916.

Pictured is Bert Kitto with two of his delivery vehicles. Jeff Kitto continues the legacy of cleaning clothes for Stockton.

Preschool Full Time Day Care 209.956.5437 4453 Precissi Lane, Stockton

Infant Care, Preschool, Pre-K. Full Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks Served Daily, Near March Lane & Pacific Avenue.

We will continue to care for children with increased safety and cleaning protocols guided by the CDC and State of CA.

Parkwoods c

Cleaners 1762 W. Hammer Ln. Stockton 209-477-4397

1901 Country Club Blvd.

Stockton 209-464-2181

6503 pacific Ave. Stockton 209-476-1602

2819 W. March Ln. Stockton 209-472-0281

Visit us @ www.WriteStartLearningCenter.net WriteStart is an equal opportunity employer and provider. License No. 393620552

SJMAG.COM

| JULY 2021 31

See It All!

32

JULY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

the

209

FIT TIPS with BETHANY DAVIS LODI MOM AND LOCAL FITNESS GURU PREACHES BALANCE OF FAMILY AND HEALTH  BY ANGELA RUDOLPH / D BECCA CUELLAR Squats, running, upper body workouts, core strengthening, adorable videos of her vibrant children…when you first check out Bethany Davis’ social media, it’s impossible not to be impressed. This powerhouse entrepreneur, mom of five, and wife of a police officer loves helping others. She’s been a fitness resource online since 2006, sharing videos and content, with the goal of educating people so that they, too, can create and enjoy the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Authentic, realistic, and warm, Bethany instantly attracts followers because she understands and lives the same struggle that we all do – trying to balance her busy life and the lives of her family, while still making time to take care of her health.

Really seeing peoples’ lives transform for the better – that’s what drives Bethany. Her journey to becoming a business owner started when she began SJMAG.COM

| JULY 2021 33

>>

sharing photos and videos of her workouts as a type of online fitness journal. Quickly, her friends and family were enthralled and wanted to know more. They asked her questions, and she shared her expertise with them and the online community, pushing her personal growth while connecting with others. And she does it all through her website—BeFitDavis. com—which offers personal training, recipes, workouts, and an online community with challenge groups, where people pay for content and even one-on-one coaching.

Bethany has always been drawn to fitness; she earned a degree in applied exercise science and she credits running for really jumpstarting

her career. While she’s always been athletic, Bethany hadn’t considered herself a runner until after college, when her friend convinced her to give it a try. Bethany didn’t think she would be able to manage five miles, but despite her doubts, she got hooked!

Escaping on her own for 30 minutes to an hour a day made Bethany fall in love with running. When she found out she was pregnant, she talked to her doctor and got the okay to continue to train, running her first half marathon when she was four months pregnant. Her passion continues to grow and now she’s run a few full marathons, too.

With her home duties and a

blossoming career, Bethany knows a thing or two about balance. Her personal mission statement is “Inspire, educate, motivate.” Sometimes the hardest part of fitness is discovering the right balance between family, work, and health and wellness. It’s a process of trial and error. “You have to find out what works for you and your unique family and situation,” Bethany says. “What works for me won’t necessarily work for everyone.”

Making it your own is important. “Don’t think you have to spend hours in a gym to get fit. Lifting heavy weights isn’t the end all, be all,” Bethany says. “For you and your family, maybe it’s not about lifting weights or running, but it’s more about taking a family walk, swimming, or going on an active adventure.”

While she personally has a passion for fitness, what she loves most in life is being a mom. Life with kids can be chaotic. There are schedules to

manage, and it seems that someone always needs something. One of her best pieces of advice is that fitness is part of a lifestyle. “The food and nutrition you use to fuel your body, your mindset… it all goes hand in hand,” Bethany explains. That’s what she’s trying to teach others through her platforms. “It doesn’t have to be hours every single day, you can see results and maintain your health and wellness by consistent ten-minute home workouts.”

Bethany’s family is her biggest inspiration.

“They’re crazy and fun!” she remarks, thinking about her adorable crew. True to life, you’ll often see Bethany’s kids show up in her workout videos. It’s unrealistic to think that a mom of five wouldn’t constantly be involved with her little ones, but Bethany shows you how to still get a great workout in even while the kids are around. “It’s not always ideal, but that’s just JOIN THE CREW: the state of life sometimes BeFitDavis.com and you have to embrace it,” @be.fit.davis says Bethany.

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JULY 2021 | SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

Classes start October 4, 2021

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| JULY 2021 35

IT’S A SELLER’S MARKET THE 2021 HOUSING MARKET SEES LOW INVENTORY, HIGH PRICES  BY NORA HESTON TARTE “We’re in a shortage supply,” says Lance McHan, a local real estate agent in San Joaquin County. “Couple that with low interest rates, it’s driving prices up.”

What McHan is describing are two of the defining characteristics of the SJC housing market. Interest rates have hit a historical low, and when you think about how the math works on interest rates, it’s easy to see why people are willing to spend more on a home. That’s because for every 1 percent you take off of an interest rate, another $30,000 can be added to the loan without a jump in monthly payment. “It’s definitely a seller’s market,” Lance says.

In addition, because there simply aren’t enough houses to meet demand, people are outbidding each other to get their foot in the door—literally. Lance says homes are going in a matter of days. He personally has experienced a house get 37 offers and another one where the buyer offered $120,000 over the asking price to secure the deal. There’s a moratorium on foreclosures due to COVID-19 forbearance plans, a chance to forgo paying the mortgage for a set period of time due to financial hardship caused by COVID-19), which is affecting normal turnover.

“Typically we run two months to three months of supply, right now we’re like

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BY THE NUMBERS $325,000-350,000 – the average purchasing power of an SJC homebuyer $30,000 – how much more money you can spend on a home with a 1 percent interest rate reduction 3 WEEKS – how much local inventory is left in SJC

three weeks of supply,” Lance says. In laymen’s terms, that means if no additional houses come on the market in the next three weeks, there would presumably be zero houses on the market to sell.

Not only are there not a lot of homes in general, but homes in the $325,000-$350,000 price range (the average price for a home in SJC) are especially hard to get into. “That’s the purchasing power* in San Joaquin County for 70 percent [of residents],” Lance says.

With an influx of Bay Area residents buying up Central Valley properties with cash offers, buyers have to get creative if they want to get into a home in San Joaquin County. Lance

doesn’t advise purchasing homes “as-is” (with no inspections or opportunities to ask for repairs) but for some sellers, that’s an enticing offer. Nonrefundable deposits and shortened inspection times are two other avenues to try. For sellers, “If you’re thinking about selling, sell,” Lance laughs. But still do so with a reputable agent who will put the house’s best face forward on the first listing, including professional photos and a good asking price.

“Homes are going in a matter of days… people are trying to get in,” - Lance McHan, Real Estate Agent

LOVE IT OR LIST IT: LANCE MCHAN (209) 986-9292 LanceMCH@gmail.com Lic: #01987449

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is land is our land, and it will be for generations to come.

WELCOME TO THE PORT OF TOMORROW. We may work on the water, but we know the value of unspoiled earth.

Which is why the Port is using sand dredged from our waterways to help Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge restore its lands and save endangered butter�y and plant species. �t’s also why we’re cleaning up a neighboring former naval property for use that will create jobs and economic opportunity. At the Port, we’ll do what it takes to keep the future’s land as clean as its water, even if we have to dig a little deeper.

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local fun

NO WHINE & PAINT YOUNG ARTISTS BLOOM AT NAVA & CO.  BY MEGAN MEINTASIS Summertime means schools out, and we’ve got the perfect activity to get the kids out of the house for some creative fun. Letty Nava, owner of Lodi’s Nava and Co., has been teaching kid’s art classes for over 15 years. “When my kids were in school, the school needed help teaching art, so I stepped in and loved it so much that I ended up doing it for 15 years,” says Letty.

“The kids have always brought me so much joy, it’s amazing when

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their eyes light up with delight in their creation.”

Letty offers a package for kids ages 4-12 that includes a series of four, one-hour art classes. Kids can start at any time of the month, since each kid works on their own painting, at their own pace. On the first day of class, kids can expect to spend one-on-one time with Letty learning how to work with acrylic paint and mix their own colors. Next, she teaches about negative painting by having them sketch out their own heart and paint everything outside of the heart with a dark color. Once they’ve completed this, kids get to choose what they would like to sketch and paint from a collection of photo references.

Letty encourages creativity and for kids to feel confident in making the painting their own.

This summer, Letty is also teaching a Saturday morning class from 10-11:30 AM that focuses on studying the masters for kids ages six and up. This is a great way to expose your kids to art and get them used to using a paint brush.

“There are a lot of benefits when kids are exposed to art at a young age,” says Letty.

“It helps them be better students. It rounds them out because they need to use their creativity.” Letty’s art classes are a unique educational environment because kids are not being graded, so they can really express themselves in their work. “Their confidence goes up so much. I wish people could see them in action because they light up and get so excited when they make a new color,” she says. “They’re all amazing.”

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1. Dean Decarli Waterfront Plaza—it’s the sculpture for us.

2. Umbrella Alley, outside of The Catalyst Arts & Wellness Studio

3. The Mighty Oak at Swenson Park Golf Course— it’s hard to miss this behemoth

4. Japanese Tea Garden at Micke Grove Park. There’s a reason engagement and wedding photos are popular on the park’s red bridge.

5. The Brickwalk at Lincoln Center

6. Oak Grove Regional Park

7. Wat Dhammararam

Umbrella Alley

DO IT FOR THE ‘GRAM

10 OF OUR FAVORITE PLACES TO GET THE SHOT IN SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY  BY NORA HESTON TARTE If you don’t snap a photo—did you even really go? In an age where sharing our experiences is second nature for many, the aesthetics of our outings really start to matter. Sure, it’s good to unplug and be in the moment, but if you’re looking for content, look no further than SJC. Read on for our editor’s picks of some of the best places to get a social media-worthy shot without traveling far.

Micke Grove Park

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Wat Dhammararam

Buddhist Temple—add some color and culture to your grid

8. Amongst the vines at Oak Farm Vineyards, Jessie’s Grove, or Harney Lane

9. In a grove of Almond Blossoms in Ripon. During the right time of year these pink florals are the perfect backdrop for professional photos.

10. Grand Theatre in Tracy with your favorite mural as the backdrop.

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off the beaten path

TEAM BUILDING

For those who live just hours from the Sierra Nevada Mountains, team building trips are very popular. Whether for a sports team, youth group, nonprofit organization, or business, TAC’s team-building courses encompass outdoor recreation, conversation skills, and comradery that can turn colleagues into friends.

ALLACCESS TO THE GREAT OUTDOORS

BACKPACKING TIPS FROM THE PROS Get the right gear Know how to read a map before you go

TAHOE-BASED COMPANY CREATES BACKPACKING COURSE FOR BEGINNERS  BY NORA HESTON TARTE TAHOE / D ADVENTURE COMPANY Socially-distanced? Check! Outdoors? Check! Costeffective? Check! When it comes to summer travel in 2021, backpacking is checking all of our boxes. But what If you don’t know where to start?

Crisis averted. Novices can now get their first taste of backpacking with a knowledgeable guide to lead the way. Tahoe Adventure Company launched a new outdoor program for those eager to learn the ins and outs of successful backpacking from route planning to navigation, even what and how to pack for the trip.

Best part? The program is family friendly.

Hosted over the course of two days (with one overnight), those who attend Backpacking 101 with TAC get full use of all necessary gear, tips on how to successfully plan their own backpacking trip, and a knowledgeable guide to lead the way across one of many routes covering approximately five miles from start to finish. Rated as easy, families can bring even young kids along for the journey for an extra dose of family bonding.

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Buddy system—don’t backpack alone!

If you already have the backpacking know-how but like the idea of venturing out with a group, TAC offers other guided backpacking excursions available on an on-demand basis (meaning you book the route, duration, and difficulty level you want on dates that are convenient for you). Currently the website offers two to five day treks, with offerings occasionally stretching up to eight days.

“TAC offers other guided backpacking excursions available on an on-demand basis” Backpacking is just part of a line-up of outdoor sports supported by TAC. Whether you’re looking to rent kayaks, paddle boards, or mountain bikes while visiting the Tahoe/Truckee area, or prefer a tour on the water or on land, check out the website for a myriad of options.

Pack light Pack in, pack out—don’t leave a mess behind Know the rules for your destination/ trail some places don’t allow overnight camping) Start small

TAHOE ADVENTURE COMPANY 7010 N. Lake Blvd., Tahoe Vista 530) 913-9212 TahoeAdventure Company.com

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 BY NORA HESTON TARTE

TAKE A SWING AT IT

LOCAL COURSES OFFER TOOLS FOR TACKLING GOLF AS A BEGINNER

It’s never too late to pick up a new hobby—especially when that hobby is golf. Many don’t even learn to play until later in life. But if you’re intrigued by the challenging sport, you should dive in as soon as possible. Local courses offer lessons and other programs to make golf accessible to beginners, regardless of age.

FORMAL LESSONS At local golf courses, lessons are often offered by pros ready to perfect your swing. Manteca Park Golf Course employs PGA level staff to give golfers the best instruction through private and group lessons offered daily. Or, take advantage of something more formal. The “Get Golf Ready Now” clinic has a schedule of classes primed for beginners or those just getting back into the game.

JUNIOR PROGRAMS Let’s put the rumors that golf is an old man’s sport aside. Kids of all ages often enjoy the game. Several programs bolster young athletes with promise either instead of or in addition to a school team. First Tee San Joaquin is a one-stop shop for junior golf programs.

Swenson Park Golf Club hosts a Junior

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Golf League. Classes and lessons are available to beginners and young pros at Manteca Park through its TEAM ACE and PGA Jr. League programs.

With a membership, golfers can enjoy complete professional services including clubs for all ages and genders at Woodbridge Golf & Country Club.

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg for available programs.

NATIONAL PROGRAMMING At Woodbridge Golf & Country Club, the Golf Academy implemented Operation 36, a golf improvement program that aids players of all ages in improving their game. The end goal is to have golfers achieve a par or better on a nine hole course. In the end, students graduate to “golfers” when they have shot a 36 or lower on nine holes with division one yardage.

Manteca Park Golf Course

PRACTICE Once you’ve gotten a little instruction under your belt—whether from friends or a professional—hit the links. Practice, after all, makes perfect (or at least better). Make a habit of working your way through local courses, starting with easier games and moving up to higher pars. Don’t forget to make it fun. Hit the driving range (many courses have them) to work on your stroke, or up your putting game on a local green—or even mini golfing with the family.

MANTECA PARK GOLF COURSE • Public Course with a Country Club Feel • Beautiful 18 hole course, driving range and full service Golf Shop in the heart of the Central Valley • Best Value in the Central Valley • Great location for Tournaments and Events THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST PUBLIC GOLF COURSES IN SAN JOAQUIN!

www.mantecaparkgolf.com • 305 N. Union Rd. Manteca • 209.825.2500 | 45 SJMAG.COM

JULY 2021

COMPOUNDING 101 CURATED MEDICATION MADE FOR UNIQUE SITUATIONS  BY DEIRDRE CARLSON Pharmacies and Pharmacists have the ability do a lot more than just dispense your prescription. Pharmacy compounding is a growing trend. By definition, “compounding” is the creation of a pharmaceutical preparation (a drug) by a licensed pharmacist to meet the unique needs of an individual patient when commercially available drugs do not meet those needs. A patient may not be able to take the commercially available drug, or a patient may require a drug that is currently in shortage or discontinued.

In many ways a compounding pharmacist can customize medications with a doctor’s prescription to better meet a patient’s needs: • Adjust strength or dosage • Flavor a medication, for example to make it more palatable for a child • Reformulate the drug to exclude an unwanted, nonessential ingredient, such as gluten or a dye that a patient is allergic to • Change the form of the medication for patients who may have difficulty swallowing or experience stomach upset when taking oral medication

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Compounding pharmacists can put drugs into specially flavored liquids, topical creams, suppositories, or other dosage forms suitable for each patients’ unique and individual needs.

The husband and wife owner and pharmacy team of Dr. Donald Cottman, Pharm.D. and Marie Cottman, Pharm.D. of Pacific Compounding in Lincoln Center are no strangers to the vital need for their business in the community. In fact, they just celebrated their 15th anniversary in May, and Dr. Marie Cottman is proud to serve the San Joaquin County as a successful women-owned business.

The duo serves everyone from babies to the elderly, as well as the veterinary needs of animals found in both the home and at the zoo. Everything they make is a customer preparation specific to the patient and their clients vary from major universities and large medical centers to smaller doctors’ offices, to pet owners and

to large zoos. Dr. Cottman explains, “We really take the time to get to know our patients—review their medical history, listen to all their concerns, and make sure to answer their questions in a calm, quiet space.” If you’re interested in Pacific Compounding’s services, walk in or call with questions any time. The team can then reach-out to your doctor directly to curate a prescription. If you’re a local doctor, Pacific Compounding can help you meet unique patient needs.

Pacific Compounding may make the process sound easy, but it is a challenge to safely do what they do every day. “Many pharmacies have given up compounding because of the strict regulations the FDA and California Board of Pharmacy require," explains Dr. Don Cottman. "Fortunately, we're focused mainly on compounding so we can make the time to get really good at what we do, and then ensure it's done right every single time."

PACIFIC COMPOUNDING PHARMACY 312 Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 474-7271 PacificCompounding.com

1700 McHenry Avenue #16-B 1110 W. Robinhood Dr. McHenry McHenry Avenue Avenue #16-B #16-B 110 W. 1110Robinhood W. Robinhood Dr. Dr.17001700 Modesto, CA 95350 Stockton, CA 95207 Modesto, CA 95350 CA 95350 Stockton, Stockton, CA 95207 CA 95207 Modesto,

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culture

URA HAU NUI urahaunui@gmail.com @urahaunui

TAHITIAN TRADITION

URA HAU NUI TEACHES TRADITIONAL DANCE TO A NEW GENERATION OF STOCKTONIANS  BY FAITH LEWIS / D DAN HOOD After nearly two decades of practicing OriTahiti, a traditional Tahitian dance, and winning competitions from Stockton to Reno, Sammy Rodrigo is sharing his passion and teaching a new generation of dancers about Tahitian culture at Ura Hau Nui in Stockton.

“The significance that Tahitian dancing has for me is always going to be unexplainable. I make sure to dance from my heart, to share all my knowledge to all my peers, to always dance with a purpose,” Sammy says. “The goal of Ura Hau Nui is to allow all the dancers to learn about the Tahitian culture, to have them become better dancers after every beat, and to make sure they love and gain a passion [for] Tahitian Dance in the most genuine way.”

There are several styles of Ori Tahiti, each capturing the emotions and movement of life and preserving their deep roots in Polynesian culture. At

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Ura Hau Nui, Sammy focuses primarily on teaching two types of dance: Otea, a fast-moving dance where the pace is set by the rhythm of Tahitian drums, and Aparima, a slower dance usually performed by a group of girls. “When Ura Hau Nui first started [last April], there were only eight dancers and currently we have 135 dancers representing Ura Hau Nui,” Sammy says. “It was an overwhelming feeling seeing how fast the group has grown, but I'm extremely blessed with how many people trust in me to lead them in their journey with Tahitian dance.”

Already the group is being recognized with competition victories and private event bookings.

Sammy is excited to see the group continue to grow and invites people to reach out to learn more about classes ages two and up) and Tahitian traditions.

QUICK CULTURE

Ura Hau Nui signifies the sacred love and peace of Tahitian dance.

There are four main styles of Tahitian Dances: Otea, Aparima, Hivinau, and Pa’o’a.

Tahitian dances focus on telling a story.

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t s Be

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celebrating

THE BEST

AFTER A YEAR OF SHUTDOWNS AND PANDEMIC LIVING, WE’RE EMERGING WITH A NEW POSITIVE OUTLOOK ON LIFE IN SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY. MANY OF OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES, ESPECIALLY THOSE IN THE FOOD, DRINK, AND ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY, HAVE SUFFERED, AND SOME HAVEN’T MADE IT TO THE OTHER SIDE. WE’RE LOOKING FORWARD AND CELEBRATING THE BUSINESSES STILL DRIVING SJC FORWARD, WITH RECOMMENDATIONS AND ACCOLADES DOLED OUT BY OUR READERS. WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING FOR THE BEST PLACE TO GRAB A MARGARITA OR THE BEST PLACE TO ENROLL YOUR CHILD IN A DANCE CLASS, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED WITH A CURATED LIST OF SJC’S BEST BUSINESSES—DECIDED

BY YOU! ••• BEHOLD, THE 2021 WINNERS OF BEST OF SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS YOU’VE GOT QUESTIONS. WE’VE GOT ANSWERS. HOW DOES SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE PICK THE BEST OF WINNERS?

From February to April 30 we collected our readers’ votes for more than 500 Best Of categories ranging from food to services, shopping to weddings. More than 4,000 local residents shared their knowledge of our community to help us come up with a list of the best of the best. Whoever got the most votes is highlighted in the category, with up to four winners per list in case of a tie).

DO ADVERTISERS AUTOMATICALLY WIN?

Nope! Let's put this rumor to rest.

A simple look through our pages proves this isn't true. We love our advertisers, but the Best Of list showcases the hot spots our readers chose as favorites—not the places our staff picks. And we can guarantee no special treatment is given to our advertisers in these sections. The only way to earn a spot on our best of list is to be the best, get the word out, and get the votes—you can’t buy your way in.

HOW DO I TELL YOU ABOUT MY BUSINESS!

Anyway you can! The best way to let our team know about the cool stuff you are doing in San Joaquin County is to email our editorial staff at editorial@sjmag.com. More than 96,323 readers turn to San Joaquin Magazine each month, which means the information we give is devoured by a lot of locals. If you tell us what you’re up to, we just may send a staffer out to visit. If we like it, you can land a spot in our magazine. Exploring fun local stuff and new trends is our favorite part of our job. We are always looking to share the coolest things in San Joaquin County with our audience, and you can help us do that by just spreading the word!

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Best

FOOD &

LOCAL RESTAURANTS FOR A DELICIOUSLY GOOD TIME

RESTAURANTS AMERICAN RESTAURANT

Want to skip cooking for the night? When you’re looking for classic American dishes, look no further than Market Tavern, a Lincoln Center restaurant that always appears to be buzzing with hungry guests.

Around the corner at Midgley’s Public House, Chef Michael Midgley is a master in the kitchen, turning out creative fare that is both fantastic and filling. At Lodi Beer Company, a beer and a burger is a staple, but it’s only the tip of the iceberg.

Appetizers

Michael Midgley puts a lot of effort into crafting the perfect appetizers for guests. The list includes at Midgley’s Public House everything from Ahi Nachos to Prime Rib Sliders, Crack Shrimp to Asparagus Cigars. Stop in for shareables or make it a meal.

Market Tavern also has a long list of worthy contenders when it comes to best appetizers including Furikake Fries, Roasted Beets, and Griddled Cornbread.

At Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar (with locations in Stockton and Lodi) you can try a little bit of everything by ordering an Appetizer Platter, complete with Mushroom Triangles, Feta Cheese Triangles, Roma Tomato Bruschetta, Spinach Feta Cheese Appetizers, Hummus, and Tzatziki Sauce. Oh, and don’t forget the Greek classic Flaming Cheese.

BAKERY

What is better than warm treats from a local bakery? We’re struggling to think of anything past the dessert case at M & W Dutch American Bakery, stuffed with a variety of cakes, cookies, and pastries. At Corner Scone Bakery, a rotating menu of treats are baked daily, plus staples like tasty croissants customers can depend on. At Fizz Bakery there is lots to try but it’s the cupcakes and custom cakes that should never be skipped, whether you want a quick treat for yourself or a decadent dessert to impress at a party.

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BBQ

‘Tis the season to fire up the grill! But spare yourself the trouble and leave the work to the masters. Fat City Brew & BBQ serves a heavy menu of meats and sides that will make your mouth water.

Expert Tip: We suggest not missing the junk nachos. At Tin Roof BBQ, choose from premium smoked meats and house-made sides Monday through Saturday. Or, order a BBQ dish from Stockton’s Waterloo Restaurant and then take home the sauce to enjoy later.

BAR FOOD

Sometimes you just want something quick to wash down your beer with. At Midgley’s Public House, the emphasis is on elevated bar snacks, not your usual chicken tenders and nachos. While at Porter’s Pub on School Street they take the bar atmosphere and run with it, turning out easy to eat and easy to please meals and snacks that definitely fit the bar food bill. Lodi Beer Company, also on School Street, leans on its old-school tavern feel and in-house brewery to accompany a menu of comfort food that’s both tasty and fresh.

BREAKFAST SPOT

A hamburger for breakfast? Why not? However, that’s not all Chuck’s Hamburgers offers (despite the name).

This hometown favorite has a full menu of breakfast staples done right from eggs and bacon to omelets and more. Avenue Grill in Lodi is another easy choice for breakfast where the menu is made up of classics with some twists such as the Poorman’s Benedict, Carnitas Quesadilla, and the Potato Platter. If you’re looking for breakfast with a view, Bob’s At the Marina provides both the aesthetics and the fare worth driving for.

BUFFALO WINGS

When it comes to wings, Smitty’s Wings & Things is the gold standard of awesome, a perfect mix of BIG, fresh chicken wings and bold sauces dreamed up by a former NFL player (Steve Smith) and his wife, Jaime. Fire Wings in Lodi brings the heat with flavors like mango habanero and buffalo stampede. Or, get weird with a milder combo like peanut butter. Porter’s Pub may not be a wingsonly destination, but that doesn’t stop the restaurant from bringing the heat when it comes this dish. We recommend trying a bite of the Korean Pepper or Honey Sriracha.

BEST Brunch

When breakfast comes a little later in the day, perhaps enjoyed on a lazy Friday afternoon or on Sunday as a final farewell to the weekend, we like to call it brunch.

And when it comes to brunch, no one does it better than Bud’s Seafood Grille (just ask our readers). The seafood staple in Lincoln Center serves up a variety of fare from both land and sea, paired with cocktails primed for day drinking. At Mimosas Gourmet, the portions are big and the drinks even bigger. Come by and have a seat on the patio for quality people watching while you swig mimosas and other sippers over a gargantuan omelet.

Market Tavern, also in Lincoln Center, does brunch right during select hours on Saturdays and Sundays.

Burger (Classic)

Somedays you just need a big juicy burger. For a traditional rendition, hit up Bob’s at the Marina where the burgers are big and cooked to perfection—why mess with a good thing, right? At Squeeze Burger, large sesame buns house patties outfitted with the infamous cheese skirt.

And Moo Moo’s Burger Barn keeps it real with a simple menu that includes burgers, fries, and shakes.

BURGER (SPECIALTY)

When you’re looking for innovation, the classic burger quickly becomes the base for a more over-the-top experience.

Midgley’s Public House knows how to get creative in the kitchen, topping beef patties with everything from spam and pineapple to prime rib and fried onion strings. (PS. Try the SJMAG Burger.)

Port City Burgers also knows how to get funky, turning out menu items such as The Barnyard and The Spicy Cowboy. At Brookside Country Club there is one menu item that rounded up enough votes to take third place in this competitive category—the St. Andrews Burger.

CASUAL DINING

A casual meal doesn’t mean simple food, it just means a fuss-free atmosphere to enjoy your fare.

Market Tavern brings in crowds to enjoy its varied menu for brunch, lunch, and dinner. At Garlic Brothers you can dive into Italianinspired dishes, including an array of pastas, stone-oven pizzas, and other comfort foods. At Midgley’s Public House we’re digging into everything from juicy steaks to creamy soups and beyond.

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Best

Caterer

When you need to feed a crowd, leave the work to the pros. San Joaquin County is brimming with caterers worthy of your business. Angelina’s Spaghetti House is so good it’s a go-to for nearby weddings. While at Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar you can indulge in Medditerrenean dishes at reasonable prices. For a kicked-back affair, order up from Tin Roof BBQ where the process to getting smoked brisket and smoky beans to your dinner table is as easy as 1-2 (no third step necessary).

CHEF

Michael Midgley is no stranger to this category. Stockton’s resident celebrity chef once again takes home the gold for best chef in SJC. Chris Isert from Brookside Country Club is another favorite, with a passion for food and feeding members and their family/friends.

CHINESE

When you want the good stuff, our readers suggest a trip to Dave Wong’s Restaurant in Stockton. The atmosphere is sleek and the food is iconic.

Think traditional Chinese dishes like lemon chicken and egg foo yon. At Yen Du Restaurant, guests can gobble up entrees with roots in Sichuan, Peking, and Hunan. At Peking Restaurant, the digs are simple, focusing instead of the quality of what’s coming out of the kitchen.

Clam Chowder

The star of the show when it comes to soups, Bud’s Seafood Grille is an easy pick for this best of category, but not far away, also in Lincoln Center, Midgley’s Public House can give the seafood joint a run for its money with both New England and Manhattan style options popping up on the menu. For those lucky enough to dine at Brookside Country Club, Chef Chris Isert’s version of the soup will have you slurping up every last bit.

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Deli

CHEESE PLATE/ CHARCUTERIE BOARD

It’s about more than sandwiches at Podesto’s Market (although those are gold, too!).

The Lincoln Center market has focused on good prices and a community feel since its inception in 1982. Stop in for a gourmet deli sandwich or shop the weekly specials for deals on kitchen staples and specialty items.

Gian’s Delicatessen offers an Italian-inspired menu featuring sandwiches and daily specials including spaghetti and homemade raviolis.

Fiori’s Butcher Shoppe has modest roots as a butcher shop where neighbors would go for their marinated meats. Today, the familyowned store is known for its hot and cold sandwiches and is setup for dine-in eating when permitted).

Charcuterie is having a serious moment—in fact, it’s been going on so long I’m not even sure we can call it a moment anymore.

Instead, cheese plates are just part of life. Lisa Spreads MM is a master at turning out curated cheese boards fit for any occasion, complete with seasonal accoutrements that make every board festive. Cheese Central was crafting cheese platters before it was trendy. Stop in to hand select items for your cheese board or ask about pre-made boxes to take home. Let’s Brie Friends can do a simple plate or an extravagant display. Call to order a custom grazing table, to-go box, or customizable platter.

DESSERT (TAKE HOME)

Picking up sweets to go? Nothing Bundt Cakes is readers' favorite spot to pick up a bundtlet, bundt cake, or dozen bundtinis in myriad of flavors, including monthly specials. Residents can’t get enough of the goods served up at 85 Degrees Celsius either, a chain with a Stockton location featuring cake slices, whole cakes, pastries, and breads.

SweetArts Bakery in Tracy has too many options to choose from—seriously, we dare you to pick just one. And, the bakery sells treats that fit many diets including gluten-free and keto.

DONUTS/PASTRY

Donuts are versatile. Breakfast item? Of course!

Dessert? Definitely! But one thing we know for sure is all donuts are not created equal. Readers go gaga over the treats at Tender Donut in Stockton—from perfectly glazed to colorfully sprinkled. At Star Donuts (also in Stockton) the usual suspects sit next to inventive options like a cinnamon toast crunch donut that uses real cereal. Most customers, however, rave about the soft dough more than the toppings. At Donut King, you can try everything from a blueberry cake donut to an apple fritter.

Fine Dining

Enjoy a fancy night out on the town by stepping foot into Prime Table Steak House.

The upscale cocktails and dryaged steaks are sure to impress any dinner companion. Locals know that Pietro’s Trattoria is the real deal when it comes to Italian cooking. Tucked inside of Wine & Roses, Towne House Restaurant offers a seasonal rotating menu that can be enjoyed under the twinkling outdoor lights in the hotel’s coveted courtyard.

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Best

BEST FILIPINO RESTAURANT

In San Joaquin County we aren’t short on quality Filipino eateries. At Best Lumpia, it’s in the name (but lumpia is just the start of the menu). At Papa Urb’s Grill, chefs offer up both traditional dishes and fun fusions that mix Filipino cooking with tacos, wings, sliders, and more. With locations in Tracy and Stockton, Island Gourmet sells hot plates and prepared meals as well as market items from Asia.

FOOD TRUCK

Mobile menus give “food on the go” a whole new meaning. Port City Burger puts its namesake center stage, offering delicious burgers that rival those of any sit down eatery. A Moveable Feast serves up meals not always found in a food truck, specializing in crab cakes, Cajun shrimp, island salmon, and other fine grub. Taqueria El Grullense is an elevated Mexican food truck handing out burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and other food at affordable prices.

Ice Cream/ Frozen Yogurt

HAPPY HOUR

There’s something so fun about making your own frozen yogurt treat, like a nostalgic nod to buildyour-own-sundae sleepovers as a kid. At Tigers Yogurt, customers love how many options there are to choose from for both flavors and toppings. Honey Treat Yogurt Shoppe rotates flavors to include two new ones every day, plus more than 20 toppings to choose from. In Lodi at Oh My Yogurt stack it with fruit or add candy.

It may just be the happiest hour of the day! But where do you want to be when the clock strikes happy? Midgley’s Public House is a clear winner when it comes to happy hour deals on drinks and food. Up next, Garlic Brothers offers deals worth dining in for.

Or, keep it simple over at Porter’s Pub. Things are subject to change so keep an eye on local websites or call ahead to confirm hours and deals.

HEALTH FOOD STORE

When you’re looking for diet-friendly fare or socially conscious goods, your average super market doesn’t always make it easy to find the right products. Specialty health stores, however, know how important ingredients and sourcing are to us! Artesian Health Foods leads the pack with everything from vitamins and supplements to pre-packaged goods (with locations in Lincoln Center and Tracy). Sheri’s Sonshine Nutrition Center offers a similar concept in Lodi. At Green’s Nutrition, private health consultations are also in stock next to all those healthy groceries and supplements.

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Italian Restaurant (Not Pizza)

Pietro’s Trattoria makes every course standout, starting with an appetizer of bruschetta and finishing with seasonal gelato.

Angelina’s Spaghetti House is known for its asparagus ravioli but its other pastas and entrees are just as worthy of praise.

At De Vega Brothers, it’s nearly impossible to choose between the fresh seafood offerings and more traditional pastas.

PIZZA

We can’t help ourselves from falling in love with pizza all over the county.

David’s Pizza is a standout, tossing New York Style pies in Stockton.

Michael’s New York Style Pizza recently added to its menu, but the staples that have been delighting customers for years remain. Dante’s Pizza & Café allows you to build your own or choose from a menu of specialty pies Wednesday through Sunday.

JAPANESE RESTAURANT

At their Lodi business Komachi Sushi, husband-wife team Sunny and Tim Chang have pulled out yet another win in this category, celebrating their massive stand-out menu that includes everything from sushi to teriyaki chicken. Mikasa Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar is another contender, where Chef Harry is busy creating foods modeled after his many travels to Asia, but not lacking invention. Shirasoni Japanese Restaurant is a small but mighty local chain with a Stockton outpost that whips up flavorful teppanyaki with flair, as well as serves sushi, sashimi, and donburi.

Outdoor/ Patio Dining

2020-2021 has been a year filled with outdoor eating, and while we may have been welcomed back indoors, we’ll still take a seat al fresca at these restaurants.

Garlic Brothers’ patio reigns supreme, while Pietro’s Trattoria in Lodi and Midgley’s Public House smack dab in the middle of Lincoln Center come in second and third respectively.

SALADS

Summer is the season of salads. We love creating our own towering creations at Whirlow’s where the options look and feel endless. Salads may not be the first item that comes to mind when you picture Bud’s Seafood Grille, but if you’re looking for leafy greens, this is the place to stop in Lincoln Center. If you have the will power to look past the long list of carb-heavy dishes and spring for a salad instead, Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar’s selections will not disappoint.

INDIAN RESTAURANT

Authenticity is what matters here. Tandoori Nites Restaurant is known for its classic Indian dishes, lunch buffet, and full bar. At Swagat Indian Cuisine, they keep it casual, with fare that represents both northern and southern Indian fare. In Lodi, at Friends Restaurant, they’ll always be there for you with garlic naan, chicken tikka masala, and vegetable samosas.

MEXICAN RESTAURANT

The number of readers who voted El Pazcifico Mexican Grill & Cantina as their favorite in this category (and others) certainly explains the perpetual line at this popular Downtown Lodi hot spot. If you can’t get in, try Octavio’s Restaurant instead, which debuted a refreshed look. Locals can’t get enough of the cuisine at Don Luis Mexican Restaurant, which reflects both Chef Cuate’s professional training and his family’s influence.

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SANDWICHES

Something about a sandwich just feels like the most classic lunch staple you can order. But when it comes to stacking meat and cheese on delicious bread, who does it best? It isn’t the first time readers have boasted about the selections at Podesto’s Market & Deli. Fiori’s Butcher Shoppe, however, came in second for its menu filled with marinated meats and prime cuts.

Genova Bakery owes part of its success to its infamous bread, but that’s not the only ingredient helping this sandwich shop find its way into locals’ hearts.

STEAK/ PRIME RIB

Sometimes you just need a big, juicy steak.

But from the cut to the cooking, not every steak is the same.

For the best steak or prime rib dinner in San Joaquin County, stop into Prime Table Steak House in Lincoln Center. At El Rancho Inn, the focus is on the steak and lobster.

Midgley’s Public House doesn’t skimp on size when it comes to these meaty entrees— choose from a 48 oz.

Tomahawk Ribeye, a 14 oz. ribeye, or an 8 oz. filet mignon.

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Seafood Restaurant

There are restaurants that do seafood well and then there is Bud’s Seafood Grille. Truly, there is no competition when it comes to this seafood hot spot that opened its doors in 1993. Located in Lincoln Center, Bud’s is focused on serving fresh, quality ingredients to guests, concocting well-balanced meals that are heavy on fish. Everything from the oysters to the salmon, the scampi to the mahi mahi are finished to perfection, and with multiple dine-in atmospheres to choose from as well as catering options, it’s easy to get your hands on the delicious grub (and the fun and funky cocktails that accompany them).

Our Japanese eateries sure know their stuff when it comes to crafting popular sushi rolls.

Mikasa Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar is expert at turning out spicy and When it comes mild rolls, including to Thai, readers classic options and more spoke out inventive choices. It’s about their three no surprise Komachi favorites. Thai Spices Sushi is also landing Restaurant offers on this list, with more traditional fare including choices than we can spicy curries and greasy count when it comes noodles in a laidback environment to fresh rolls. Cocoro while Thai Me Up debuted a new bar with the new year, earning extra Japanese Bistro & points in the style and drinks department. However, it’s still the food Sushi Bar has an entire that keeps patrons flooding in. Siamese Street Thai Restaurant does menu section dedicated things a bit differently—adding fusion dishes to its list of classic eats to creative rolls (and housed in a vibrant space. another one featuring the restaurant’s simpler options).

Sushi

THAI CUISINE

TACOS

El Pazcifico Mexican Grill & Cantina are experts at plating a variety of authentic dishes that look almost as good as they taste. Regardless of what meat you choose the tacos here are no exception.

There’s more than one way to enjoy tacos at Octavio’s Restaurant—choose from four popular options, including some that take an out-of-the-box approach to this classic menu item. Keep it casual at Adalberto’s Mexican Food Restaurant and order tacos anytime of day—pssst it’s open 24 hours.

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Waffles

We are never amazed when a place with waffle in the name wins top prize for this category. American Waffle Diner takes home the gold for its long list of well-done waffles including the menu’s newest item: The San Joaquin Magazine Waffle. Or, dive into a stack at Avenue Grill where specialty waffles pop up at the diner every so often. Mimosas Gourmet knows how to dress up a breakfast. Stop here for more than the standard—guests can choose between options both savory and sweet.

AMERICAN WAFFLE DINER, Winner of Best Waffle

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Best

DRINK

SIT BACK, RELAX AND SIP YOUR FAVORITES

BREWERY

In downtown Lodi, Five Window Beer Company’s fifteen taps feature a rotating lineup of local favorite, bestselling, and newly released craft beers. Whether you like it hoppy or fruity, enjoy your brew alongside a wood-fired pizza or get it in a growler to take home. Or, hop on over to Lodi Beer Co. where local and seasonal favorites are always being poured. On the other side of town, High Water Brewing is bringing bold flavors with 36 taps and a full kitchen—they even have craft draft soda. Pick your poison and enjoy in the outdoor beer garden.

Bloody

Craft Beer PUB/BEER MENU

The craft beer scene is hopping in San Joaquin County and our readers are sharing their favorite places to belly up to the bar and grab a cold one. Lodi Beer Co. is pouring a selection of award-winning lagers and ales. The Stockton-based microbrewery Valley Brewing Co. was the local watering hole long before they started serving up their own original flavors in 2015. Can’t choose just one craft beer at Five Window Beer Company? Opt for a flight and you won’t have to.

CRAFT COCKTAIL

For killer cocktails in an upscale and inviting setting, our readers know to look no further than Market Tavern where classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Manhattan have a new look. Or head to Midgley’s Public House for original house cocktails like a Peach Smash (Bird Dog Peach Whiskey, fresh lemon, muddled mint), Huckleberry Lemon Drop (360 Huckleberry Vodka, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, cranberry, sugar rim), or Ruby Sparkle (grapefruit vodka, Aperol, St. Germaine, grapefruit juice, sparkling wine). Or, head north to Lodi’s popular West Oak Nosh for a boozy brunch or an anytime-of-day cocktail.

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If coffee gives you a reason to get out of bed every morning, these local coffee shops have the caffeine kick you’re craving. House of Coffees is an institution in Lodi, serving up hot, iced, and blended coffees, made how you like it—flavored, sweet, or strong. With several locations around town, Stocktonians swear by Empresso Coffeehouse, where they’ve got the basics covered (drip, French press, and cold brew coffees) and are spicing up the coffee scene with drinks like their Mexican Mocha (also available as a frappé). Or, pop into Poppy Coffee for your daily cuppa in a quaint and modern setting.

MARGARITA

On the rocks, blended, served with salt, fruit-flavored or classic, sweet and tart—there’s no shortage of top-notch margaritas in the county. El Pazcifico Mexican Grill & Cantina is our readers’ top pick for fruity margaritas in Lodi. For fresh squeezed margaritas with a fruity twist (like the mango margarita), grab a spot as Octavio’s.

Meanwhile, at La Mesa you can choose from more than half a dozen margarita flavors, including Piña Picante and Coco y Piña.

MARY

Bid adieu to the boring Bloody Marys you’ve known all your life and say hello to Market Tavern’s stunning Saturday and Sunday brunch menu where you’ll find six tempting flavors like Smoked Pig (applewood bacon, half egg, cheese-stuffed fried olive, pickled vegetable) and Italian Stallion (meatball slider, pepperoni, Parmesan, red chile flakes, pickled vegetable). Patrons of Ollie’s Pub in Lodi know it’s not just the place you go when you’re looking for a proper pint – and they’re letting you in on the secret. Meanwhile, American Waffle Diner is whipping up some mean Mary’s all week long.

COFFEE \ SPOT (LOCAL)

Juice SMOOTHIE BAR

/ These juices and smoothies are sweet and packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them the perfect—dare we say, healthy?—summer cool down. Put some pep in your step with Nekter Juice Bar, where they’re pressing, blending, and serving up freshly made juice, smoothies, and juice cleanses. Juice It Up! Lodi offers a full menu of smoothies, fresh and cold-pressed juices, and even smoothie bowls. And at Leti’s Fruit, you can choose from fruity options like a Mexican agua fresca, smoothie, or juice.

Tea Room

In Lodi, The Hidden Tea Room is an open secret and the best place to go for a traditional English high tea experience. Reserve a table or rent the tea room for your private event (15-25 guests). With a selection of traditional loose-leaf teas and modern iced tea flavors, even the youngest guests will enjoy their own “Teddy Bear Tea.” Plus, high tea is served with a variety of scones and other seasonal finger foods.

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Thank you for voting us as the winners of Best Wine Club!

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Best

SHOPPING PUT YOUR MONEY INTO THESE LOCAL BUSINESSES

AUTO

DEALERSHIP

In the market for a new car? We know the process can be a drag. Chase Chevrolet, however, makes it easier. The shop, family owned and operated since 1944, treats customers like part of the family, with deals on new and used vehicles. If you’re looking for a luxury vehicle Berberian MercedesBenz is the place to shop for everything from sports cars to high-end SUVs. Big Valley Ford rounds out our list with a wide selection of inventory that offers family vehicles, work trucks, Lincolns, and extensive new and preowned inventory.

BICYCLE SHOP

If the new vehicle you are looking for comes on two wheels, you’ll want a shop you can trust. Whether you’re purchasing a new bike or need a qualified repairman to service your current ride, voters are in agreeance that Robby’s Bicycles is the place to go in Stockton for everything from road and mountain bikes to cruisers and comfort bikes. Lodi Cyclery is the spot in town, not only operating regular bike sales and repairs but also specializing in electric bikes for commuting and adventure.

Designer Eyewear

Whether they are prescription, for sun, or just for style, Great Spectacles seems to always be taking top prize when it comes to designer eyewear stores. The Lincoln Center shop curates a variety of designer frames and accessories needed to keep you looking stylish—and able to see! Brookside Optometric Group not only sells frames, it’s also an optometrist office so you can see a doctor and get your glasses in the same place with the help of a knowledgeable source. Similarly, Zeiter Eye has multiple locations throughout the Central Valley and beyond to keep your eyes in tip-top shape while also putting your best face forward.

Consignment SHOP

We love to thrift because it’s good for both our pocketbooks and the environment. New & Again is our go-to spot for gently used furniture and other home goods that will give our spaces a quick spiff-up. In Tracy, My Best Friend’s Closet keeps patrons looking stylish in impressive designer duds that don’t carry the daunting price tag. Or, do it all in one run at Superior Thrift in Stockton, where the thrift shop carries everything from vintage clothes to rare home décor. Check out the website for featured specials—SuperiorThrift.com.

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FASHIONABLE

ACCESSORIES

The Fashionable You in Lodi makes shopping a fun affair for everyone. The shop specializes in women’s goods including jewelry and hats, handbags, and shoes. There simply isn’t much you can’t get here when it comes to fashion accessories. Browse the website to see what’s in or stop by and take a look for yourself. Also in Lodi, Fashion Safari packs a lot into its space with a collection of cute finishing touches for every outfit. It even became our favorite place to shop for face masks this past year. Meanwhile, Regalo Bello sells accessories for our bodies and our homes—an ideal place to buy a gift for just about any woman on your shopping list.

Gift Shop MUSIC STORE FINE JEWELRY

Anniversary presents, engagement rings, graduation gifts, when it comes to big occasions, Gary J. Long Jewelers knows their stuff. The premier jeweler with a shop in Lincoln Center has been serving the community since 1983, taking home countless accolades for selection and service. Peck’s Jewelers also has a storefront in Lincoln Center where he sells fine diamonds and other pieces. At Peck’s, it’s in the details—the Graduate Gemologist and Certified Gemologist Appraiser who owns the shop is a master at recognizing quality.

In Lodi, Danz Jewelers has been serving the community since 1984, selling diamonds, specializing in custom jewelry design, and servicing your existing pieces.

Looking to pick up a musical instrument on a budget? Music Go Round in Stockton gets its name from its business model—buying and selling used instruments, sound equipment, and more. Since 1974, The Music Box in Lodi has been dedicated to making music in San Joaquin County, with a wide selection of instruments (including student pieces) and other equipment. If you’re looking to rent an instrument, step into Bill’s Music Sales or shop online. Bill’s also offers lessons and repairs.

When it comes to finding the perfect gift for any occasion, may it be a baby shower or a birthday, Best Wishes is a one-stop shop, carrying the cards, gift wrap, and presents to please. Regalo Bello is another worthy contender, sharing new inventory on its Facebook account so you always know about the new drinkware and home accessories taking up space in the Stonecreek Village shop. Boxwood Finch is a quaint Lodi space oozing charm, with a wide selection of gifts from recipe books and serving platters to locally made beauty products and more.

PET SUPPLIES

Sure, there are plenty of big box stores serving animal needs in SJC, but when it comes to a local, quality experience, our readers favor one place—Carter’s Pet Mart. The local chain has stores in Stockton, Manteca, and just outside San Joaquin County in Modesto, selling a variety of goods to meet pet needs from diet-friendly treats to safety gear and more. Stop in and be treated like family, with an entire staff of knowledgeable pet lovers at the ready to help you find everything you—and your pets—need.

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Shopping CENTER/MALL WWW.THEOWLBOX.COM

the owl box

Looking to shop ‘til you drop? Instead of bopping from location to location, get it all done in one spot. Lincoln Center is the destination in Stockton for those looking to buy gifts, have lunch, and pick up cute new clothes for themselves.

Plus, the shopping center offers events and other seasonal happenings to make the experience more fun. At Weberstown Mall, trade in boutiques for big box stores and eateries that provide a nostalgic mall experience. Next door, you’ll find a continuation of the traditional mall experience at Sherwood Mall where Best Buy, ULTA, and HomeGoods take up real estate.

the owl box the owl box

open 7 days a week

131 W 10TH STREET - DOWNTOWN TRACY WWW.THEOWLBOX.COM

VINTAGE CLOTHING STORE

Three are a lot of places to thrift in San Joaquin County, but if you’re specifically looking for vintage pieces to finish your wardrobe, there’s just two places our readers favor above the rest. Lilou of the Valley Vintage sells everything from licensed Betty Boop t-shirts to 90s Nike gear that is fully back in style. At Superior Thrift, shoppers can find high-end vintage clothing, affordable concert tees, wearable art in the form of painted denim, and collectible sports gear.

WOMEN’S CLOTHING

BOUTIQUE

Don’t you hate it when you show up somewhere wearing the same outfit as everyone else? Instead of relying on chain stores to dress you, step into a locally owned boutique for something unique. FINA is top of the list for fashionable finds, with a revolving inventory that keeps the storefront fresh. On the Miracle Mile, Bellissima Boutique is where the fashion is at—a favorite stop of SJM readers who like to stay on top of fashion trends. At The Fashionable You, everyone is welcome. The shop specializes in making fashion accessible, with affordable price points and sizes ranging from small to 3X (and sometimes more).

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The Carter Family Would Like To Thank You For Voting Us Best In Pet Supplies

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Voted #1 in Credit Unions in San Joaquin Magazine SJMAG.COM

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Best

FUN INDOOR & OUTDOOR WE’RE HERE FOR A GOOD TIME

ART GALLERY

The Haggin Museum in Stockton has long been a favorite of residents young and old, relying on permanent collections that represent local history and interactive displays. Until July 18, the museum is tackling sustainability and conservation with an exhibition from the Bank of America Collection. Most art museums won’t let you eat while you browse the artwork, but at Double Dip Gallery in Lodi, grabbing a cone of Gunther’s Ice Cream is part of the experience.

The Stockton Art League-sponsored Elsie May Goodwin Gallery not only has art on display but offers classes and working art spaces. While temporarily closed, online viewings are encouraged on the website.

LOCAL CASINO

Looking for a little excitement? Some of the best casinos are just a stones throw away. Within 100 miles of San Joaquin County, gamblers will find Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort in Jackson that offers a wide array of casino games and slot machines, fine dining, and concerts and entertainment. Red Hawk Casino in Placerville ups the ante with childcare options at the 24-hour operation that features plenty of gaming options, retail stores, and five restaurants.

Third on our list is Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln where the gaming hotel also boasts golf and a spa for a truly luxurious getaway.

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GOLF COURSE (PRIVATE)

At these three courses, membership is worth it. Avid golfers will enjoy the benefits of becoming a member at Woodbridge Golf & Country Club where players can create their own 9-hole combinations, work with PGA staff, and take advantage of the other on-site amenities including access to tennis courts, a fitness center, and more. Brookside Golf & Country Club is another worthy contender with a par-72 18-Hole Championship Golf Course on property. The history at Stockton Golf & Country Club is enough to draw anyone in— one of the first twelve courses in California—but the upgrades to the clubhouse, fitness center, and dining rooms, are what make membership so appealing.

GOLF COURSE (PUBLIC)

No membership needed (though some are offered) to hit a few balls on these courses. Two hundred-year-old oak trees decorate the 18-hole, par-72 course at Swenson Park as well as the nine-hole par-3 course. In Lodi, Micke Grove is the premier public course to try, with a linksstyle golf course featuring lakes, sand bunkers, and panoramic views. Also in Stockton, Elkhorn Golf Club offers more than just a place to play a round, with an active social calendar and plenty of tournament opportunities, there’s a lot to be a part of at Elkhorn.

Downtown STOCKTON HOT SPOT

If you’re looking for good food and a good atmosphere, locals say you should flock to Cast Iron Trading Co., a downtown eatery with live music and an outdoor patio. The Downtowner beckons regulars in with rotating specials and Good Mood Food staples that identify as comfort grub with a healthy touch. The Stockton Waterfront is always a good idea if you’re looking for a good place to stroll, grab a drink, and have dinner all in one spot.

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HEALTH PUT YOUR TRUST IN THE EXPERTS

Day SPA

ALLERGIST Whether your kryptonite is pollen or peanuts, soy or shellfish, allergies can stop you in your tracks.

Sometimes those over-thecounter meds pack enough punch to take the edge off, but oftentimes nagging or more serious allergies will have you searching for stronger stuff. And for more than 30 years, Stocktonians have trusted the allergy experts at Allergy Immunology & Asthma Medical Group to help get their allergies under control.

COSMETIC SURGERY

Looking good and feeling good is more than a passing trend. At Vu Plastic Surgery, Dr. Hugh Vu isn’t interested in a cookie-cutter approach to cosmetic surgery. Instead, he believes in taking the time to understand the patient’s personal goals and achieve lasting results.

McNemar Cosmetic Surgery’s Dr. Thomas McNemar puts his natural affinity for precision and perfection to work helping his patients accentuate their outer beauty while building confidence to enhance their inner beauty.

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Year after year, locals agree that the best relaxation staycation can be found at The Spa at Wine & Roses. Just try to top their classic Wellness Message or hydrating Honey Bee Good message.

Or if you’re looking to pencil some reoccurring relaxation into your monthly schedule, Perfect Balance Day Spa’s membership packages are the way to go.

Meanwhile, Blush Bar will make you feel like a whole new person with their lash extension experts and menu of clinical skin care solutions.

CROSS FIT STUDIO

The team at Crossfit 209 Sport has one goal: help you experience what your body was built to do with a focus on varied physical exercises that mimic natural and functional movements. At ASAP Fitness, you’ll do more than feel the burn—you’ll join a community that is always rooting for you.

The founders of The Camp Transformation Center recognized a need for a new approach to weight loss and fitness. At the Lodi location (one of more than 100 locations), locals are finding the support and motivation they need to change their lives and shed extra weight.

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DENTIST

(PEDIATRIC)

DENTIST

(COSMETIC)

Want a smile that will light up the room? Lodi’s Dr. Todd Franklin knows that a radiant smile is a healthy smile, so he offers cosmetic services ranging from fixing cracked and broken teeth to teeth whitening, enamel or gum shaping, and more. Dr. Lester Low treats every patient like family to ensure top-notch dental care to Stockton residents. And at Martin Dentistry, you have three times the cosmetic and implant dentistry experts: Dr. Doug Martin, Dr. Dax Martin, and Dr. Sky Martin have the experience to address your every dental concern.

Kids Care Dental & Orthodontics knows that lifelong dental health starts young, so they aim to make young patients comfortable while addressing all dental needs in one place. Martin Dentistry isn’t just for mom and dad; the youngest members of the family will also benefit from the team’s expertise and the whole family will leave with brighter smiles. Say cheese!

Meanwhile, Stockton native, mom, and Navy veteran Dr. Sharon Manois is bringing a modern approach to dentistry that will put even the youngest patients at ease.

Orthodontist

DR. MANJEET SAMRA OF SAMRA ORTHODONTICS,

Winner Best Orthodontist

At Samra Orthodontics (Stockton and Modesto), Dr. Manjeet Samra and Dr. Aaron Rondon focus on treating people, not patients which means they’re focused on the big picture and know what a big impact your orthodontic journey can have.

Dr. Sean Collins’s patients love his professionalism and knowledge. Dare we say, he can make getting braces enjoyable? When little smiles need a little straightening, Kids Care Dental & Orthodontics is there.

DERMATOLOGIST/ SKIN DOCTOR

Proper skin care is about more than just pampering yourself.

From skin cancers to eczema, rosacea, hair loss, and more, Dr. Stuart Jacobs knows that the idea that “it’s only skin deep” has no place in medical care and leverages his more than 30 years of experience to ensure patients receive the treatment they need.

At Fairmont Dermatology, Dr. Abdallah Khourdaji customizes each skin care treatment, whether it is for skin cancer or cosmetic.

The doctor duo at Quail Lakes Dermatology is committed to encouraging preventative measures (wear your sunscreen!), as well as addressing existing skin concerns.

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EYE CARE/

FAMILY HEALTH PRACTICE

OPTOMETRIST

Brookside Optometry Group has been a trusted provider of eyecare since three of Stockton’s largest optometric practices joined forces back in 1998. More than 20 years later, their team includes 11 highly trained optometry experts who have seen it all. Patients look to Zeiter Eye Medical Group, the leading provider of cataract treatment and surgeries in the Central Valley, for eye exams, glaucoma treatments, and – yes – cataract treatments.

At Midtown Optometry, husband-and-wife team Dr. Derron and Dr. Leanne Lee offer vision services for the whole family, including eyewear, lenses, and vision therapy.

With more than 350 primary care and specialty physicians throughout Stanislaus, San Joaquin, and Merced counties, Sutter Gould Medical Foundation is a not-for-profit healthcare organization dedicated to providing the best care for every member of the family. HT Family Physicians is a private practice that prides itself on offering comprehensive primary care, preventive care, and disease management services at their locations in Stockton and Lodi. When your family joins Kaiser Permanente, you’re joining a healthcare network 40 hospitals, 700 medical offices, and 23,000 physicians strong.

FACIAL

Treat yourself to 45 minutes of pure bliss with one of the half a dozen facials offered at Blush Bar in Stockton or allow the experienced estheticians at Perfect Balance Day Spa to create a facial fully customized for your skin type and concerns.

The Spa at Wine & Roses offer a variety of facials depending on your skin type and problem areas. You might opt for a Beautiful Back Purification, all the benefits of a facial, but for your back! There’s even a facial designed just for gents.

FITNESS CLASSES

Thanks to the popularity of fitness classes, there’s no need to go it alone. Whether you’re looking to improve your strength, flexibility, or form, hoping to heal an injury, or just seeking some comradery, you’re sure to find a class at Twin Arbors Private Sports Club in the pool, on the yoga mat, or in the gym. Form First Functional Fitness (aka F4 Training) prioritizes – as you might guess from the name – teaching proper form through a rotating lineup of classes. At Shine Cycle + Yoga + Barre your workout will come alive with a beatbased indoor-cycling class and Shine’s specialty hot yoga.

Health Club (WITH

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS)

With 60+ locations up and down California, In Shape Health Club got its start in Stockton and remains a flexible and dependable option for San Joaquin County locals looking to get their sweat on. Built on the philosophy that a healthy lifestyle takes more than a good workout, In Shape aims to be a place where community and overall health keep their members coming back time after time.

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Hair Salon Studio

The pandemic is over and those emergency kitchen scissor sheers just aren’t going to cut it anymore. Leave the styling to the pros at Pomp Salon where bold cuts and bright colors are second to none. Or turn to UNIQO Salon in Downtown Stockton for modern, organic, and out-of-the-box cuts, colors, and hair care regimens. From blowouts to Brazilians, bobs, beach waves, and blue updos, Lux Salon has you covered from roots to tips.

VICKI KIRK OF POMP SALON,, Winner of Best Hair Salon Studio

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HEALTH CLUB (WITH ONE LOCATION)

If you’re struggling to find motivation in the cookie cutter, locations-across-the-nation chains, these local health clubs are here to offer you all the personalized support you need to take the next step in your fitness journey. Twin Arbors Private Sports Club wants to help you turn your health into a habit with their wellness-focused programs. And at Form First Functional Fitness you’re guaranteed a well-rounded workout regime with a different style of workout offered every day.

CENTER

Hospital Deciding where to turn for the best medical care can be a stressful process. Luckily, our readers’ recommendations mean you can rest assured you’ll receive the best care possible. St. Joseph’s Medical Center is at the top of the list with their online ER waiting room, patient navigator services, and a variety of health-centric classes. Based in Lodi, Adventist Health Lodi Memorial Hospital is one of the region’s premier nonprofit healthcare providers who not only care for patients, but care about them as well. And among Kaiser Permanente’s 40 hospitals and 700 medical offices, Kaiser Stockton stands out for great patient care.

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SURGERY

If you’re fed up with fiddling with contact lens and constantly cleaning those smudged glasses, let the local Lasik experts at Zeiter Eye Medical Group clear up your questions and explain your options. Heritage Eye’s Dr. Kenneth Miselis knows that Lasik can be a lifechanging experience and finds the process almost as rewarding as his patients do. Brookside Optometry Group’s team of experts has performed or assisted with more than 30,000 Lasik procedures—no doubt that you’re in good hands here!

Hearing Losing your hearing can mean losing a little piece of your autonomy. You miss out on conversations with your loved ones – and chase them from the room with the TV blaring. But, thanks to American Hearing Aids, Stocktonians have been hearing loud and clear for more than 20 years.

With locations throughout the greater Sacramento area (including Lodi and Stockton), Sacramento ENT can address hearing related concerns like sudden or gradual loss of hearing, tinnitus, and ear infections. At the University of the Pacific Hearing and Balance Center, the experts are with you every step of the way from prevention to rehabilitation.

LASIK EYE

HOSPICE/ PALLIATIVE

CARE

When choosing the best end of life care for your loved ones, it is important to trust the care providers and at Hospice of San Joaquin nothing is more important that ensuring their patients receive the dignity and care they deserve. And at Community Hospice in Modesto, you can be sure your loved ones will be met with the same compassion, quality care, and integrity that has driven the organization for the last four decades.

Independent PHARMACY

Customer service is paramount to independent pharmacies, meaning you can expect personalized attention each and every time. At Hammer Lane Pharmacy, that’s exactly what keeps patients coming back—that and the wide variety of insurances accepted, the flexibility of in-person refill or delivery options, and competitive pricing. The team takes the time to ensure you understand what your medications do and how they work, so that you leave feeling in control of your health.

MEDICAL SUPPLY STORE

Skilled NURSING

If you’re aches and pains are bad to the bone, it’s time to stop by The Bone Store. Sometimes pain relief is as simple as finding the right pillow to alleviate pressure points, selecting the right brace for a little added support, or slipping into the perfect pair of supportive shoes to have you standing tall. Up the ante with a zero-gravity chair or stress-less recliners.

OB-GYN

Your OB-GYN is going to be involved in some of life’s biggest, and most sensitive, moments, so choosing a provider isn’t a decision to take lightly. With a cumulative 65 years of experience and as the largest OB/GYN Medical Group in San Joaquin County, Gill OB/GYN Medical Group believe that their patients deserve not just great care, but also compassion and comfort. At Dignity Health, Dr. Bhagya Nakka knows women’s health issues inside and out, offering care before, during, and after pregnancy. From high-risk pregnancies to cervical cancer screenings, hysterectomies, and more, Dr. Leslie Sackschewsky ensures that her patients are fully involved in decisions around their health.

Physical

Trust our readers’ recommendations to ease any apprehension you have when picking a skilled nursing facility for your loved one.

The Meadowood Skilled Nursing facility at O’Connor Woods is known for their focus on rehabilitation while providing aroundthe-clock care according to each resident’s needs. Likewise, at Fairmount Rehabilitation Hospital, the focus is providing compassionate care with medical integrity. And at Arbor Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, the staff works day and night to ensure residents can return home with as much freedom and autonomy as possible.

THERAPY COMPANY

No doubt that physical therapy can work miracles and Movement for Life Physical Therapy is committed to providing effective and efficient treatment methods with a focus on injury prevention to cut down on additional recovery time. Pine Street Physical & Occupational Therapy is dedicated to seeing patients recover quickly thanks to their evidence-based approach to physical therapy. Golden Bear Therapy Partners works to get patients the resources they need by leveraging a growing network of care providers across the West Coast.

ORTHOPEDICS

Out of sight, out of mind is not always a great mantra, especially when it comes to your bones. Orthopedic trauma and sports injuries require a different treatment approach than conditions that have developed gradually, but Alpine Orthopaedic Medical Group is ready to help patients recover from either—or both. From pain management to surgery or joint replacement, they’ll work with you to develop the best treatment plan to get you back on your feet.

URGENT CARE

It’s always good to know where you can head for all of life’s little whoopsies.

Sutter Gould Medical Foundation has several urgent care locations throughout the county to offer quick care no matter where you are. At Stockton Urgent Care Medical Clinic, you can catch up on your immunizations, get stiches, and address other symptoms that require quick attention. Trinity Urgent Care serves the greater Stockton and Elk Grove areas and is ready to get you back in tip-top shape whether you have a broken bone or the flu.

YOGA STUDIO

Stretch away the stress at some of San Joaquin County’s top yoga studios. Shine Cycle + Yoga + Barre is at the top of our readers’ list, boasting a selection of classes whether you’re looking for relaxation, recharging, or flexibility. For a schedule as flexible as you, look into classes at Now & Zen Yoga Studio in Lodi or break a sweat with Stockton’s True You Hot Yoga.

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SERVICES LOCAL BUSINESSES THAT SERVE YOU

ACCOUNTANT/ CPA FIRM

Is tax season enough to make your head spin? Want to rev up your retirement savings, but don’t know where to start?

Is bookkeeping slowing your small business down? Iacopi, Lenz & Company can help with all that and more. All About Numbers in Stockton aims to help educate their customers so they can make sense of their taxes and the rest of their financial to-do list.

Bowman & Company provides personalized solutions to fit each customer’s needs – during tax season and throughout the rest of the year.

Auto Body Shop

After a collision, you don’t need the extra stress of worrying about whether or not your car is going to get fixed right – the first time. All Foreign & Domestic Body Shop has promised pain-free repairs for the last 30 years and works directly with several insurance companies to get your car up and running as soon as possible. Fix Auto Stockton (formerly Aurora Collision Center) has a new name, but the quality collision repairs they’ve been providing hasn’t changed since 1944. In Lodi, you can trust your ride to American Auto Body just like locals have been doing since 1976.

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BANK

In San Joaquin County locals benefit from several long-standing, close-tohome banking institutions where you’re more than your account number and balance. With 20 locations and 150 years of serving the Central Valley, the Bank of Stockton boasts all the tech and knowledge of a big bank plus the personal service generations of customers have come to expect. Headquartered in Lodi, F&M Bank will give any national bank a run for their money with their diverse banking services. The family-owned BAC Community Bank operates with the goal of strengthening the community’s financial health.

CREDIT UNION

Dry

CLEANER

Dry cleaning protects fabrics that would be damaged by heat or water if you tried to wash them at home, but it is also the best way to remove stains that can’t be lifted by water (like grease and oil). Trust your formal wear, coats, bedding, and those other can’tbe-cleaned clothes to Lincoln Center’s Parkwoods Cleaners.

Too busy for a drop off? Sign up for Guild Dry Cleaners & Alterations’ free pick-up and delivery services or benefit from Fresh Cleaners’ multi-location convenience.

With lower rates, fewer fees, and a focus on communities, it’s no surprise that these longstanding local credit unions are trusted by our readers year after year. San Joaquin County’s largest credit union, Financial Center Credit Union, offers traditional banking services like checking and savings accounts, as well as insurance products, financial planning, and a legal help hotline. Golden 1 Credit Union serves more than a million members, offering services at 70 locations throughout the state. Premier Community Credit Union was created with teachers in mind but now serves the entire San Joaquin County community – with a continued focus on educators.

FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER

From baby bumps to birthdays and all the special memories to be made in between, the husband-and-wife duo at Jon & Jess Studio are there to capture all the magic of the moment. Stockton-based Sweet Sister’s Photography specializes in newborn, birthday, family, and graduation shoots.

Caroline Photography has been capturing those special moments since 1980 and current owner and head photographer Kevin Richtik is carrying on the studio’s original standard of excellence, whether at the studio or on location .

LOCAL HOTEL

It’s been a stressful year. Our readers think you deserve a staycation! And nothing says “unwind” quite like Wine & Roses. With upscale onsite dinning and a day spa that snagged several Best Of titles over the years, you won’t ever want to check out. Located just steps from Stockton Arena, Banner Island Ballpark, and the Civic Auditorium on the Stockton Waterfront, University Plaza Waterfront Hotel offers 179 luxurious guest rooms, fine dining, and 10,000 square feet of event space. Lounge in bed all day, enjoying the Hilton Stockton’s room service or take a stroll to the nearby UOP campus.

PEST CONTROL COMPANY

Law FIRM

Dog

TRAINER

Believe it or not, you can teach an old dog new tricks. But at Bonea-Fide Dog Training they know it isn’t just a question of Fido blindly obeying. Instead, they put an emphasis on teaching owner and pup alike to communicate and understand each other. With 40 years of experience, the trainers at The Canine Culture offer an eight-week training course for dogs of all ages. And at Sycamore Lane Kennels, training classes are held at their onsite All Dogs Sports Park where pups can complete a Canine Good Citizen class, a Nose Work class, a Swimming and Dock Diving Class, and more.

Whether working with individuals, businesses, or public agencies, Kroloff, Belcher, Smart, Perry & Christopherson is proud of the firm’s reputation for going above and beyond for clients. McKinley, Conger, Jolley & Galarneau is a full-service law firm in Stockton with expertise in business law, family law, real estate litigations, and more. Neumiller & Beardslee has grown with Stockton for more than a century and continues to represent individuals’, businesses’, and non-profit organizations’ interests.

Take a deep breath, put down the flamethrower, and call the experts. With 16 Northern California locations, Clark Pest Control has all your roach, ant, bedbug, and other petulant pest needs under control. At Delk Pest Control you can choose between a single service or a bimonthly maintenance service. A-1 Exterminators is a third-generation business that has been ridding Stockton homeowners of termites, pest, and rodents since 1969.

INSURANCE AGENT (INDIVIDUAL)

The unforeseen is unfortunately a part of life and you want to know that you can trust your insurance agent to be there when the unexpected eventually comes knocking. State Farm’s George Azevedo Jr. offers a wide range of insurance policies – including pet insurance!

For more than a decade, Stockton residents have been trusting Farmers Insurance Agent Ryan Turner to lead them when it comes to auto, home, life, and other insurance policies. And Farmers Insurance Agent Paula Ortiz’s customers appreciate her dedication to finding them the right insurance protection.

Kroloff Law

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REALTOR (INDIVIDUAL)

PET BOARDING

With our readers’ most trusted kennels, your pets can have their own vacation while you’re out of town! Your pooch will find spacious kennels, activity yards, puppy playgroups, and plenty of cuddle time at Sycamore Lane Kennels (feline friends are welcome, too). And at The Canine Culture, your dog will enjoy having their own indoor/ outdoor kennel and twice daily outdoor play – they’ll even fall asleep to soothing music at night! Lodi’s Sunset Kennels Garden Retreat offers spacious kitty condos, private indoor or indoor/ outdoor doggie kennels, or family kennels where your pups can stay together.

Pet Spa/

GROOMING

With three different grooming services (Mini Groom, Full Groom, or Bath & Tidy) provided by nationally certified groomers, your pooch will come home from Sycamore Lane Kennels looking like their best self. The Canine Culture offers regular grooming services – or your pup can have a spa day while boarding. Dogs of all sizes and breeds are welcome at 209 Pet Spa, where they’ll be treated to a full body haircut, bath, blowout, nail trim, and more.

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After an initial foray into the real estate industry as an appraiser in 2010, Lance McHan found that the service many real estate agents were offering their clients left much to be desired.

Convinced he could do better; he became an agent himself in 2015 and offers his clients a personalized approach with each and every sale. Friendly without being pushy, his goal isn’t to sell you a house, it’s to work with you to find your perfect home.

REAL ESTATE

FIRM

There are a lot of things you can DIY when it comes to your home – but buying and selling shouldn’t be one. Take our readers’ advice and turn to Schaffer & Company Realtors who have been finding Lodi families their perfect homes for over 60 years. Or, reach out to Cornerstone Real Estate Group, who knows the impact the decision to buy (or sell) can have on your life, taking the time to ensure every step of the process is seamless. After facilitating the purchase and sale of San Joaquin homes for decades, Grupe Real Estate has the know how—and knows where—to find your perfect home.

VETERINARY

CLINIC

Tattoo Studio

Emerald Tattoo & Piercing is all about quality over quantity.

Offering both cover-up and original art, they make sure to not rush any step of the process so their customers always leave satisfied with their tattoos. Built around a theme that encompasses Manteca’s history, Union Tattoo & Piercing aims to be the go-to tattoo shop for the community.

Quarter Horse Tattoo in Stockton specializes in traditional American and Japanese styles and are especially excited to make your black and grey tattoos come to life.

SENIOR ASSISTED LIVING

Choosing the senior assisted living facility best suited to your needs or the needs of your loved one is a personal choice but knowing where our readers place their trust can help you with your decision. Year after year, O’Connor Woods and its 34-acre gated community is a top pick. The Commons on Thornton also has a great reputation with residents, offering a selection of leisure and fitness activities while the chores are handled by staff. Meanwhile, Oakmont of Brookside is an industry leader, specialized in luxurious, resort-style living.

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If your pets could talk, they’d tell you exactly what’s bothering them.

The next best thing is taking them to visit one of the county’s most trusted vets. The team at Lodi Veterinary Hospital is there for you in emergency situations and for planed procedures ranging from surgery to dentistry, x-rays, parasite prevention, and more. Stocktonians have trusted their pets’ health to Venetian Pet Hospital for more than 25 years and our readers are sure you can, too. Sierra Veterinary Clinic believes in treating your pets as if they were one of their own, ensuring quality care at every visit.

LANCE MCHAN,

Winner of Best Realtor (Individual)

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WEDDINGS SAY “I DO” TO THESE VENDORS

WEDDING DRESS

WEDDING CAKES

Looking for something both beautiful and delicious to wow your guests with? Fizz Bakery never disappoints with its wedding cakes—all yummy frosting, decadent decorations, and soft, spongy cake in many, many flavors. Order it tiered or go casual with cupcakes. Frosted Flour in Lodi is another favorite for wedding desserts. A quick look at the online gallery tells you everything you need to know about ordering a wedding cake from Lisa. SweetArts in Tracy has mastered everything from whimsical to opulent for both the main attraction and groom’s cakes.

FORMAL WEAR/ TUXEDOS

The dress may be the showstopper, but there’s no reason your man should pale in comparison next to you on the big day. Tuxedos of Lodi keep grooms looking their best with a variety of rentable suites for him and the rest of his wedding party.

With a large inventory, grooms can go traditional, looking like the perfect cake-topper groom, or add their own flair to the occasion with fun colors and accessories.

Whatever it is, the team at Tuxedos of Lodi has your back!

Wedding Flowers

Your wedding is forever, so why shouldn’t your flowers last just as long? Endless Blooms in Lodi sells wooden bouquets and other arrangements for brides who don’t want to throw away their décor the day after. Looking for a more traditional florist? Charter Way Florist sells real flowers to brides and grooms. At Blossoms

by Lisa, the focus is on custom design, curating the perfect floral arrangements to accent the rest of your décor, or to be the standout pieces of the day (next to you of course).

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From trumpet skirts to form-fitting lace, big ball gowns to mermaid-style dresses, there is a lot to consider when picking your outfit for your wedding day. And when it comes to trying pieces on, the experience should be special. At Sheryl Giles Bridal, all brides are treated like they are one-of-a-kind, with dress appointments that cater to helping you select the dress of your dreams. At Elizabeth of Lodi, it’s all in the reputation. This local dress shop has been dressing women on special occasions since 1954! Maggie’s Bridal & Formal is small but mighty, offering an intimate experience for brides and their wedding parties where everyone can pick their dresses in one place.

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WEDDING SUPPLY RENTAL

When planning a wedding, there are always little extras that tend to pop up. Instead of breaking the bank by buying what you need, take advantage of rental companies that carry everything from table linens to chairs and serving

platters. Choose table settings and more from Giuffra’s in Lodi by browsing the website or stepping into the Hansen Drive showroom. In Stockton, American Event Rentals has a large variety of pieces to finish any décor.

Or, choose Bella Festa in Lodi, where everything is about the aesthetics and special touches—from gold hammered flatware to a wrought iron arch.

Wedding Rings/ Jeweler

This might be the most important purchase you make as part of your nuptials—whether you’re eyeing an engagement ring or need wedding bands to showcase your love for one another, there are three jewelers that top our list for quality, variety, and service. Choose between knowledgeable owner Jeff at Peck’s Jewelers, award-winning customer service and selection at Gary J. Long Jewelers, or the historic Danz Jewelers in Lodi, all with a long history of serving the community’s diamond and jewelry needs.

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

If a picture is worth a thousand words, imagine how valuable a quality wedding photographer is. Briggs Photography—a husband and wife duo—come in first when it comes to capturing your big day, with packages that fit every budget. Jon & Jess Studio is another married couple celebrating their love for your love behind the lens. Mary Gillespie is a chameleon of styles, switching up her aesthetic to match the vibe of your big day.

WEDDING

VENUE (INDOORS)

Choosing a venue is an important decision, and one of the first questions you may ask yourself is, do I want my wedding to take place indoors or outdoors? Weather may play a part in the decision and if you ultimately choose to go with an indoor reception, look no further than Wine & Roses, where guests are transported into a fairytale filled with twinkling lights and hanging vines. Brookside Country Club also offers an indoor option where on-site catering and location are just two of the highlights. At Woodbridge Golf & Country Club, vows take place outside but inside a reception hall is just as visually appealing for the after party.

WEDDING VENUE (OUTDOORS)

When it comes to getting married outside, the venue really matters. At Wine & Roses when the weather is right, getting married in the hotel’s stunning courtyard can’t be beat.

Or, say I Do onsite at one of Lodi’s favorite wineries. Oak Farm Vineyards proffers a gorgeous backdrop of towering oak trees and active vines perfect for snapping photos. At Viaggio Estate & Winery, the grounds are huge—offering multiple spaces to get married outdoors, choosing your own setting, before guests sprawl out across the Italian-style villa for the rest of the evening.

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PARENTING

OUR GOLD WINNERS WILL HELP YOU EARN A GOLD STAR WITH YOUR HARD-TO-IMPRESS BROOD

CHILDREN’S BALLET /DANCE When it comes to

BIRTHDAY PARTY SPOT Now that we can celebrate outside of our households again, we think birthday parties are going to be BIG this year. Looking for a venue? Our trusty readers tell us that Ginger Bugs is the best place in SJC to book a kid’s party with an indoor playground and helpful staff that take the planning out of your busy hands. At Impact Sports in Lodi, kids get free range of the open gym where they can tumble, jump, and play. If you prefer to take the party outside, Pixie Woods is just the spot, offering amusement rides, kid-friendly attractions, themed play areas, and even a water play area for those warmer days.

extracurricular activities, dance is popular for many. Lodi’s Twinkle Toes, inspired by Owner Ashley Trammell’s daughter, will open its enrollment again in August. In Stockton, The Dance Connection offers dance instruction across many disciplines including ballet, jazz, and hip hop. Elevate Dance Company dabbles in both instructional courses and competitive dance separated by age and skill level in styles including ballet, hip hop, acro, jazz, global movement, and more.

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING

Looking to keep your little one stylish? Support local businesses to get unique looks and styles that will help your mini-me standout. Willow Tree Children’s Boutique keeps it both fashionable and comfortable with brands for infants, toddlers, and school-aged children.

At Sassy Pants Children’s Boutique in Stockton’s Lincoln Center, an explosion of color and high-end brands are perfect for everyday wear as well as special occasions. Caterpillar Children’s Boutique has a different business model, supporting sustainability with a buy, sell, and trade program that offers gently-used clothing at a discount.

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Charter School

When you have the opportunity to choose your child’s school, it can be overwhelming and word-of-mouth means a lot. Take our readers’ words for it—the best charter schools in the area rank: Aspire Public Schools with multiple locations throughout the county, Health Careers Academy for older students with an interest in pursuing a career in health, and John McCandless STEM Charter School in Stockton with a focus on STEM subjects.

Indoor Family Fun

Prepare to be wowed. At World of Wonders (W.O.W.) Science Museum, parents and kids can play side by side while they discover scientific concepts with hands-on exhibits. Learn about electricity, sound, and more. Plus, special events offer more ways to play and learn together. While much of Impact Sports’ offerings are geared toward kids, they have plenty of opportunities for families to play together with Kinder Morning Playtime where kids and guardians burn off energy together (and anyone can join). Or, get your jump on at Sky Zone Trampoline Park with family-friendly dodgeball, obstacle courses, and free-jump spaces.

Preschool

MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL

It’s easy to stumble upon a Tibon’s Goju Ryu Fighting Arts and Supplies goju ryu program in San Joaquin County because the gym that started in 1984 has expanded, offering programs at places such as Stockton and Modesto GymStars and Hiers Goju Ryu in Lodi. And with ease of access and plenty of satisfied students, it’s easy to see how this karate school landed in the number one spot on our 2021 Best Of list. Cutting Edge Martial Arts in Lodi offers classes for kids and adults accessible to all, specializing in taekwondo.

At VALOR Training Center (with locations in Stockton and Elk Grove), students learn the art of Muay Thai with kidfocused classes, teen classes, and adult classes, including cardio kickboxing, so the whole family can work out together.

CHILDREN’S PHOTOGRAPHER

Capture life’s most precious moments with professionals who not only know how to turn out good photographs but are also experts at handling kids through all stages of life. Sweet Sisters Photography is no stranger to this list, taking home the top spot again. In second place, Caroline Photography provides studio space for family portraits and other photography needs. Or, make memories with Little Love Story Photography & Design starting with a maternity shoot and following your child’s growth through the years.

GYMNASTICS

Kids can flip and tumble their way to fun all over San Joaquin County. GymStars Gymnastics has a little bit of everything for your wild ones. From karate to dance, ninja classes to tumbling, plus a line-up of active camp options—there’s no shortage of ways to get moving. Impact Sports is an all-ages experience with classes for young kids (open to the public) as well as special events for older kids only. It’s in the name at Champion Gymnastics, where the premier facility offers boys and girls recreational classes for aspiring gymnasts and cheerleaders as well as competition teams for those looking to show off their skills to a bigger audience.

Education is of the utmost importance, especially after a year like last year. Give your child a jumpstart on their academic career with a high-rated preschool.

Vinewood Preschool operates out of Vinewood Church in Lodi, focusing on early learning and religious lessons. Snell’s Pre-Kindergarten School offers more than just schooling with full-time childcare available to kids ages two to five.

In Stockton, Central Methodist Nursey School is celebrated for its long history of serving community families, first opening its doors in 1963 with a play-based approach to learning that encompasses the wellbeing of the whole child.

Private School

Regardless of your child’s path in life, St. Mary’s High School is an excellent choice for helping them find success. For kindergarten through eighth grade, Presentation Parish School focuses on faith, academics, and service to turn-out well-rounded future citizens. For younger kids, Cathedral of the Annunciation School combines challenging curriculum with lessons that align with the Catholic Christian community, creating a triangle of support between teachers, parents, and students.

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Best

HOME IT’S MORE THAN A HOUSE

Antique Store AIR CONDITIONING/ HEATING Is there anything worse than

One man’s trash is another man’s treasure and you never know what treasures will turn up at our local antique shops. Turn heads with a new-to-you fashion accessory from Hubba Hubba! Antiques on Stockton’s Miracle Mile or pick up the perfect repurposed piece of furniture. At New & Again Consignment Furniture Gallery in Downtown Lodi, you can choose from a great selection of gently used furniture, antiques, collectibles, and other household goods. Complete your antiquing circuit just down the street at Secondhand Rose!

your heating system breaking in the middle of a frigid winter storm? Aside from maybe your AC dying during a blazing summer heatwave, that is.

Either way, Stockton’s trusted Lovotti Inc. has you covered and will get your systems up and running in no time.

Or reach out to Queirolo’s Heating & Air Conditioning, where it’s been all about family since 1954 and the team’s priority is ensuring your family’s comfort year-round.

Coaches HVAC ExtraordinAIR specializes in more than puns – give them a call for commercial or residential HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) installations or repairs.

CUSTOM BLINDS

With 20 years of experience helping customers find their perfect window coverings, Discovery Shutters & Shadings is sure to uncover the perfect option to compliment your décor and keep those harsh summer rays shut out. And who said hefty price tags needs to come between you and your beautiful window coverings anyway? At Budget Blinds, you can request a free in-home or virtual consultation to see just how many options you have at different price points. Or reach out to Lodi’s Classic Design Interiors for a little professional advice if you’re in over your head with your DIY project.

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FURNITURE STORE (MODERN)

C.R. Porter Home Collection has been bringing chic Bay Area style to San Joaquin County for more than 20 years and the staff is eager to help you find your new favorite piece when you visit their Stockton showroom. At Minerva’s Furniture whether you’re looking for a new couch, recliner, or mattress, comfort comes first.

Get ready to sit back and relax. And for one-stop shopping, swing

by Lodi’s Thornton House Furniture where you’ll find plenty of quality furniture and home accessories.

FLOORING SHOP

Your floors have a lot to stand up to—spills, stains, scuffs, and a lifetime of footsteps. Make sure they’re up to the task by trusting our readers’ top flooring picks. At Raphael Hardwood Flooring, the experts will guide you through the process of choosing the perfect hardwood or waterproof flooring for your home. Classic Design Interiors will set you up from floor to ceiling and help you choose the right carpet, tile, hardwood, or other material for every room in the house.

MAT FROM CR PORTER HOME COLLECTION, Winner of Best Furniture Store (Modern)

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GARDEN/PATIO/ OUTDOOR

Rain or shine, outdoor living is front and center in San Joaquin County and our readers’ favorite garden stores will bring you a little sunshine all year long. With a rotating inventory of local honey, produce, cheeses, jams, gardening tools, gifts, live plants, and other goodies, In Season is your go-to garden shop for every season. And when it comes to bringing a little bit of the garden inside, With Garden Flair is there to help with unique home accessories alongside their selection of patio furnishings. Meanwhile, Delta Tree Farm is ready to meet your every plant nursery need.

Best Kitchen Remodeling

With a professional interior design team and suppliers offering all the best classic and trending countertops and cabinetry, Classic Design Interiors can help you cook up the perfect design for your kitchen. The family-owned Mazzera’s Remodeling Center has picked up a few tips and tricks over the last 80 years of helping homeowners with kitchen remodels. Or, if your kitchen project is starting to look more like a rebuild than a remodel, Brent Workman Construction (a Lodibased general contractor) can help you build everything from the ground up.

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INTERIOR DESIGNER

Picking a style for your home is a very personal choice. After all, you want it to feel like your home, not like a big box store showroom. But what do you do when you don’t actually know what your style is? Kathleen Jennison, owner and lead designer at KTJ Design Co., has you covered! She’ll work with you to find the perfect look so you feel comfortable and, well, at home. Classic Design Interiors has a whole team to help you pick the perfect look, from flooring to cabinets, fixtures, and lighting. At CR Porter Home Collection, you can find the perfect furniture and all the finishing touches you need to make your home your own.

HOME BUILDER

Have a specific vision for your future home? Caresco Homes has built more than 1,000 homes in San Joaquin County and can help bring your ideas to life. FCB Homes doesn’t just build houses, they build communities. Reach out to learn more about their latest projects in Lodi. The foundations of Elliott Homes were laid in 1914 and since then the company has been building family homes throughout California and Arizona.

SOLAR

COMPANY

Thinking about switching to solar but don’t know where to start? No stress, our readers know just the place.

SunPower by The Solar Quote uses a solar technology designed to make the most of every ray of sun last longer and look good. With BTA Solar you’ll get more than installation – they’ll also handle all the rebate application paperwork and any local jurisdiction permits to have your system up and running in no time. With customers across the nation, Sunrun is dedicated to helping families power their lives and will work to find the perfect solar solution for you.

Keeping your family comfortable for 15 years!

WE ARE NOW HIRING HVAC CONSTRUCTION POSITIONS.

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR CUS CU STOMERS WHO VOTED US #1

CALL FOR MORE DETAILS

Thank You For Voting Us Best Of San Joaquin 11 Years In A Row!

209.931.2100

|

Se Habla Espańol

lovottiinc.com | Lic. #865459

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BEST OF THE BEST

TasteS of Summer WATERMELON BERRY SMOOTHIE WATERMELON COOLER JUICE

2021 WINNERS Food

PINEAPPLE COCONUT

TROPICAL CITRUS

AMERICAN RESTAURANT Market Tavern Midgley’s Public House Lodi Beer Company APPETIZERS Midgley’s Public House Market Tavern Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar

$2 off

any small juice or smoothie Valid at Roseville, Stockton, Fair Oaks, and Briggsmore Center locations only. Cannot be combined with any other discount, offer or coupon. Coupon must be given to cashier at time of redemption. Limit one customer per transaction. No cash value.

Expires: 7/31/21. Promo Code: SJAD2OFF.

BBQ Fat City Brew & BBQ Tin Roof BBQ Waterloo Restaurant BAKERY M & W Dutch American Bakery Corner Scone Bakery Fizz Bakery BAR FOOD Midgley’s Public House Porter’s Pub Lodi Beer Company BREAKFAST SPOT Chuck’s Hamburgers Avenue Grill Bob’s At the Marina

Thank you for voting us

Best Thai Restaurant in San Joaquin 2401 W. Turner Rd., Ste. 224 Lodi (Inside Woodlake Plaza)

209.369.8424 OPEN MONDAY-SUNDAY 11AM-9PM

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BRUNCH Bud’s Seafood Grille Mimosas Gourmet Market Tavern BUFFALO WINGS Smitty’s Wings & Things Fire Wings Porter’s Pub

BURGER (CLASSIC) Bob’s at the Marina Squeeze Burger Moo Moo’s Burger Barn BURGER (SPECIALTY) Midgley’s Public House Port City Burgers Brookside Country Club CASUAL DINING Market Tavern Garlic Brothers Midgley’s Public House CATERER Angelina’s Spaghetti House Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar Tin Roof BBQ CHEF Michael Midgley Chris Isert CHINESE Dave Wong’s Restaurant Yen Du Restaurant Peking Restaurant CLAM CHOWDER Bud’s Seafood Grille Midgley’s Public House Brookside Country Club CHEESE PLATE/ CHARCUTERIE BOARD Lisa Spreads MM Cheese Central Let’s Brie Friends

Thank You for Voting us the best American Restaurant, Appetizers, Bar Food, Burger Specialty, Casual Dining, Clam Chowder, Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, Steak, Craft Cocktail and Chef Michael… 7th year in a row!

296 Lincoln Center ● Stockton

(209) 474-7700 midgleyspublichouse.com

SUNDAY – THURSDAY: LUNCH 11:30-4 • DINNER 4-9 FR IDAY & SATURDAY: LUNCH 11:30-4 • DINNER 4-10

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BEST OF THE BEST

2021 WINNERS DELI Podesto’s Market Gian’s Delicatessen Fiori’s Butcher Shoppe

FOOD, BEER & COCKTAILS TO-GO

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST CRAFT COCKTAIL!

Come NOSH on NOSH at NOSH HOURS

OUTSIDE SEATING AVAILABLE

224-8157 10 W. Oak St. Lodi Ca 95240

Wednesday 11am - 7pm (209) Thursday, Friday & Saturday 11am - 8pm Sunday 10 - 2pm (Brunch) 2:30pm - 6pm

@westoaknosh

West Oak Nosh

Photos by Velvet Ink velvetinkphotography.com

Thank you for voting us best!

Thank you Family, friends, community, & consumers from all over! It is a great honor to be placed with San Joaquin’s best this year! Thank you to all who have voted and supported my charcuterie business during unprecedented times to now.

Without you all I wouldn’t be here at this point to even be a part of San Joaquin’s best! I’m overjoyed with thoughts and emotions every waking day to be grateful. The continuous support is beyond what I could have ever imagined. With open arms and deep within my heart, thank you!

@LisaSpreadsMmmM

BOXES - BOARDS - GRAZING TABLES 209.625.5698

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DESSERT (TAKE HOME) Nothing Bundt Cakes 85 Degrees Celsius SweetArts Bakery DONUTS/PASTRY Tender Donut Star Donuts Donut King, BEST FILIPINO RESTAURANT Best Lumpia Papa Urb’s Grill Island Gourmet FINE DINING Prime Table Steak House Pietro’s Trattoria Towne House Restaurant FOOD TRUCK Port City Burger A Moveable Feast Taqueria El Grullense ICE CREAM/FROZEN YOGURT Tigers Yogurt Honey Treat Yogurt Shoppe Oh My Yogurt HAPPY HOUR Midgley’s Public House Garlic Brothers Porter’s Pub

HEALTH FOOD STORE Artesian Health Foods Sheri’s Sonshine Nutrition Center Green’s Nutrition INDIAN RESTAURANT Tandoori Nites Restaurant Swagat Indian Cuisine Friends Restaurant ITALIAN RESTAURANT (NOT PIZZA) Pietro’s Trattoria Angelina’s Spaghetti House De Vega Brothers JAPANESE RESTAURANT Komachi Sushi Mikasa Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar Shirasoni Japanese Restaurant MEXICAN RESTAURANT El Pazcifico Mexican Grill & Cantina Octavio’s Restaurant Don Luis Mexican Restaurant OUTDOOR/PATIO DINING Garlic Brothers Pietro’s Trattoria Midgley’s Public House PIZZA (NON-CHAIN) David’s Pizza Michael’s New York Style Pizza Dante’s Pizza & Café

THANK FORVOTING VOTING OF THE MEXICAN RESTAURANTS THANK YOU YOU FOR US US ONEONE OF THE BEST BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANTS & TACOS!

Fine Mexican Cuisine Serving Breakfast, lunch & Dinner

Dine In q New Patio Dining

5940 CA-99, Stockton Frontage Rd.

Call Us About Our

Off Hammer Lane (209) 931-9163

To Go q Curb Side Pickup & Drink Specials Catering Menu!

Visit Us Monday – Sunday 7am – 9pm • www.donluismexicanrestaurant.com

Thank you for Voting us #1 Health Food Store!

NATURAL FOODS Vitamins • Supplements • Specialty Foods Gluten-free, Raw Dairy, Local Products, Healthy Snacks & So Much More!

Knowledgeable, Friendly Staff 145 Lincoln Center (209) 952-8787 www.artesiannaturalfoods.com M-F 9:00am-5:30pm, Sat 9:30am-6:00pm, Sun 10:00pm-3:00pm

Thank you for voting us the best coffee shop in San Joaquin!

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THANK YOU VOTING US BEST IN BEST SEAFOOD, CLAM CHOWDER, SALADS, BRUNCH!

BEST OF THE BEST

2021 WINNERS SALADS Whirlow’s Bud’s Seafood Grille Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar SANDWICHES Podesto’s Market & Deli Fiori’s Butcher Shoppe Genova Bakery SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Bud’s Seafood Grille

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BLOODY MARY Market Tavern Ollie’s Pub American Waffle Diner

STEAK/PRIME RIB Prime Table Steak House El Rancho Inn Midgley’s Public House SUSHI Mikasa Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar Komachi Sushi Cocoro Japanese Bistro & Sushi Bar

CRAFT COCKTAIL Market Tavern Midgley’s Public House West Oak Nosh

THAI CUISINE Thai Spices Restaurant Thai Me Up Siamese Street Thai Restaurant

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BREWERY Five Window Beer Company Lodi Beer Co. High Water Brewing

CRAFT BEER PUB/ Beer Menu Lodi Beer Co. Valley Brewing Co. Five Window Beer Company

TACOS El Pazcifico Mexican Grill & Cantina Octavio’s Restaurant Adalberto’s Mexican Food Restaurant

Reservations of Any Size Accepted • 314 Lincoln Center 209.956.0270 • www.BudsSeafood.com

Drinks

WAFFLES American Waffle Diner Avenue Grill Mimosas Gourmet

COFFEE SPOT (LOCAL) House of Coffees Empresso Coffeehouse Poppy Coffee

JUICE/SMOOTHIE BAR Nekter Juice Bar Juice It Up! Lodi Leti’s Fruit MARGARITA El Pazcifico Mexican Grill & Cantina Octavio’s Restaurant La Mesa TEA ROOM The Hidden Tea Room

Thank You For Voting Us One Of The Best In Zinfandel

Join Us For Live Music Every Saturday & Sunday 1 - 4 PM

COME ENJOY GREAT WINES, LIVE MUSIC, GOOD FRIENDS, SUNSHINE & FLOWERS EVERY WEEKEND (RESERVATIONS REQUIRED).

7099 E. Peltier Rd, • Acampo • 209.333.2600 • MacchiaWines.com THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST PIZZA IN SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY!

A Great Place to Meet Friends and Make New Ones AAGreat & Make Ones GreatPlace Place to to Meet Meet Friends Friends and MakeNew New Ones

High Water Brewing is a local independent Craft Brewery, Taproom and Restaurant with an extensive menu High WaterBrewing Brewing local independent Craft Brewery, High Water isisa alocal independent Craft Brewery, featuring seasonal offerings and taps.

Taproom & Restaurant with an an extensive menu Taproom and Restaurant with extensive menu featuring seasonal 36 taps. featuring seasonalofferings offerings&and taps.

Open Wednesday Take Out Service Through Sunday Open Wednesday-Sunday Beer Out and Service Food Open Wednesday Take Take Out Service Beer & Food Through Sunday Beer and Food Live Music, Trivia, Beer Yoga, Paint Classes and more!

Live Music, Trivia, Beer Yoga, Paint Classes and more!

Indoor and Outdoor seating in a relaxed environment.

Indoor & outdoor seating in aalways environment.

Familes and dogs are welcome.

Indoor and Outdoor seating inrelaxed a relaxed environment.

Familes and and dogs areare always Familes dogs alwayswelcome. welcome.

We offer on-site catering for both private parties and banquets.

We offer on-site catering for both private We offer on-site catering private parties and banquets. partiesfor & both banquets.

7 INDUSTRIAL WAY LODI, CA -- -----927 7 INDUSTRIAL INDUSTRIAL WAY WAY LODI, LODI, CA CA 209-625-8146 -- ------

Live Music, Trivia, Beer Yoga, Paint Classes & More!

C O M E S E E O U R N E W LY R E M O D E L E D DINING ROOM & FULL BAR Breakfast Lunch & Dinner:

Authentic New York Style Pizza • Salads • Soups Sandwiches & More...

2 3 0 0 W. A l p i n e , S t o c k t o n

209.462.6668

HIGHWATERBREWING.COM q HIGHWATERBREWING@GMAIL.COM HIGHWATERBREWING.COM HIGHWATERLODI@GMAIL.COM HIGHWATERBREWING.COM

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THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST COSMETIC DENTISTS

Read our 850+  Reviews at: SmilesDoctor.com

2021 WINNERS FUN

ART GALLERY The Haggin Museum Double Dip Gallery Elsie May Goodwin Gallery LOCAL CASINO Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort Red Hawk Casino Thunder Valley Casino Resort DOWNTOWN STOCKTON HOT SPOT Cast Iron Trading Co. The Downtowner Stockton Waterfront

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE

You will appreciate the personal service that each patient receives from Dr. Lester Low and the caring staff. Their commitment for excellence will make each visit a positive experience towards good health.

Don’t like going to the Dentist?

I LOVE going to my Dentist!

“Thank you Dr. Low for the excellent dental care I get from you and your staff. You, Dr. Low, are also an artist. I say this with conviction when I smile in the mirror.”

— Alexia M.

Dr. Lester Low, D.D.S. 3133 West March Lane | Suite 1090 | Stockton

209.474.3333

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GOLF COURSE (PRIVATE) Woodbridge Golf & Country Club Brookside Golf & Country Club Stockton Golf & Country Club GOLF COURSE (PUBLIC) Swenson Park Micke Grove Elkhorn Golf Club

Health

ALLERGIST Allergy Immunology & Asthma Medical Group COSMETIC SURGERY Dr. Hugh Vu Dr. Thomas McNemar

CROSS FIT STUDIO Crossfit 209 Sport ASAP Fitness The Camp Transformation Center DAY SPA The Spa at Wine & Roses Perfect Balance Day Spa Blush Bar DENTIST (COSMETIC) Dr. Todd Franklin Dr. Lester Low Martin Dentistry DENTIST (PEDIATRIC) Kids Care Dental & Orthodontics Martin Dentistry Dr. Sharon Manois ORTHODONTIST Samra Orthodontics Dr. Sean Collins Kids Care Dental & Orthodontics DERMATOLOGIST/SKIN DOCTOR Dr. Stuart Jacobs Dr. Abdallah Khourdaji Quail Lakes Dermatology EYE CARE/OPTOMETRIST Brookside Optometry Group Zeiter Eye Medical Group Midtown Optometry FACIAL Blush Bar Perfect Balance Day Spa The Spa at Wine & Roses

California’s largest independent practice of optometry

Winner of Best of San Joaquin for 11 Years

• In house optical lab • Contact lens specialty fits • Over 1500 frames to choose from to meet any style need • Over 80 years of combined teaching experience at the University of California Berkeley, School of Optometry • Experience in over 30,000 Lasik and PRK refractive surgery management

3133 W March Lane, Suite 2020, Stockton

(209) 951-0820 www.brooksideoptometric.com Open Evenings & Saturdays for appointments

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BEST OF THE BEST Kathleen Jennison Interior Designer Kathleen Jennison Interior Designer

2021 WINNERS FAMILY HEALTH PRACTICE Sutter Gould Medical Foundation HT Family Physicians Kaiser Permanente

I've been an interior designer for TEN years and

I've been an interior designer for TEN years and world of home design. specialize in working with clients who are new to If you want beautiful home unsure of the the world ofahome design.

Ifbut youare want a beautiful process... home but are unsure of the process... If you have a vision but aneed tobut stayneed within a specific budget...

If you have vision to stay within a specific budget...

If you are ready to transform your personal life through changing your environment...

If you are ready to transform your personal life through I've been an interior designer for TEN years and

specialize in working with clients who are new to the specialize in working with clients who are new to the world of home design.

If you want a beautiful home but are unsure of the process...

If you have a vision but need to stay within a specific budget...

If you are ready to transform your personal life through

FITNESS CLASSES Twin Arbors Private Sports Club Form First Functional Fitness Shine Cycle + Yoga + Barre

HOSPICE/PALLIATIVE CARE Hospice of San Joaquin Community Hospice INDEPENDENT PHARMACY Hammer Lane Pharmacy LASIK EYE SURGERY Zeiter Eye Medical Group Dr. Kenneth Miselis Brookside Optometry Group

changing your environment...

changing your environment...

Let's Talk Let’s Talk

Let's Talk

phone. . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . (209) 932-9801 email. . .kathleen@kathleenjennison.com email. . . . . . . . . . . . .kathleen@kathleenjennison.com website. . . . . www.kathleenjennison.com website. . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.kathleenjennison.com Instagram.

Instagram. . . . .. .. .. .. . .. .. .... .. ..@kathleenjennison . . . . .@kathleenjennison phone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (209) 932-9801

email. . . . . . . . . . . . .kathleen@kathleenjennison.com

phone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (209) 932-9801 website. . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.kathleenjennison.com Instagram. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .@kathleenjennison

Thank you for Voting us #1 in Health Club/Fitness Classes

Recharge

your life

We are now a proud participating Fitness Facility For these Health Insurance Companies:Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Peerfit, Fitcoach, & Active & Fit-Adventist Health. Over 125 Insurances Accepted.

209-334-4897 • TWINARBORSLODI.COM TWINARBORSINFO@GMAIL.COM • 1900 S HUTCHINS ST. LODI, CA

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HAIR SALON STUDIO Pomp Salon UNIQO Salon Lux Salon HEALTH CLUB (WITH MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) In Shape Health Club HEALTH CLUB (WITH ONE LOCATION) Twin Arbors Private Sports Club Form First Functional Fitness HEARING CENTER American Hearing Aids Sacramento ENT University of the Pacific Hearing and Balance Center HOSPITAL St. Joseph’s Medical Center Adventist Health Lodi Memorial Hospital Kaiser Permanente

MEDICAL SUPPLY STORE The Bone Store OB-GYN Gill OB/GYN Medical Group Dr. Bhagya Nakka Dr. Leslie Sackschewsky ORTHOPEDICS Alpine Orthopaedic Medical Group PHYSICAL THERAPY COMPANY Movement for Life Physical Therapy Pine Street Physical & Occupational Therapy Golden Bear Therapy Partners SKILLED NURSING Meadowood Skilled Nursing Fairmount Rehabilitation Hospital Arbor Rehabilitation & Nursing Center

7 Years in Existence ... 7 Wins

It’s been our greatest pleasure to serve our community. With our Sincere Gratitude,

Thank you for your support. @salonpomp

#pompsalon

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BEST OF THE BEST

2021 WINNERS We are honored and committed to bringing you the best solution for all your heating and air needs!

Thank you for Voting us one of the best in Air Conditioning/Heating in San Joaquin!

Robert P. Queirolo - Never Forgotten

David R. Queirolo - Owner

(209) 464-9658

www.Queirolos.com

Tibon’s Goju Ryu Fighting Arts

Karate Studio & Martial Arts Supplies

923 N. Yosemite • Stockton 209.465.0943 FAX 209.465.1517 www.tibonkarate.com

95% of our Black be

lts achieve College and University Degre es,

100%

and the m ha ve gra of du ate d Hig h Sc ho ol!

No con tac ts!

Ca ll for mo re inf orm ati on !

Adam C. Tibon

7 year national team member

CLASSES ALSO AVAILABLE AT: GymStars Karate 1740 W. Hammer Ln.• Stockton 209.957.1919

Hiers Goju Karate 1900 S. Hutchins St • Lodi 209.333.8509 United Bay Area Karate Club 5591 Snell Ave. • San Jose (209) 676-0224

All instructors have been cleared by FBI and DOJ background checks, all are safe dependable karate teachers!

Thank You for Voting Us Best Martial Arts Center!

Gene Tibon 8th Degree Black Belt Instructor

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GARDEN/PATIO/OUTDOOR In Season With Garden Flair Delta Tree Farm

URGENT CARE Sutter Gould Medical Foundation Stockton Urgent Care Medical Clinic Trinity Urgent Care

HOME BUILDER Caresco Homes FCB Homes Elliott Homes

Home

AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING Lovotti Inc. Queirolo’s Heating & Air Conditioning Coaches HVAC ExtraordinAIR ANTIQUE STORE Hubba Hubba! Antiques New & Again Consignment Furniture Gallery Secondhand Rose!

CUSTOM BLINDS Discovery Shutters & Shadings Budget Blinds Classic Design Interiors FLOORING SHOP Raphael Hardwood Flooring Classic Design Interiors

GymStars Karate 5170 Pentecost Dr.,Ste B • Modesto 209.549.1919

We are working with all Charter Schools with P.E. Alternatives programs

YOGA STUDIO Shine Cycle+Yoga+Barre Now & Zen Yoga Studio True You Hot Yoga

FURNITURE STORE (MODERN) C.R. Porter Home Collection Minerva’s Furniture Thornton House Furniture

INTERIOR DESIGNER KTJ Design Co. Classic Design Interiors CR Porter Home Collection KITCHEN REMODELING Classic Design Interiors Mazzera’s Remodeling Center Brent Workman Construction SOLAR COMPANY SunPower by The Solar Quote BTA Solar Sunrun

Parenting BIRTHDAY PARTY SPOT Ginger Bugs Impact Sports Pixie Woods

CHARTER SCHOOL Aspire Public Schools Health Careers Academy John McCandless STEM Charter School CHILDREN’S BALLET/DANCE Twinkle Toes The Dance Connection Elevate Dance Company

I love this town.

Thanks, for voting us 2021 best in San Joaquin.

I love being here to help life go right'" in a community where people are making a difference every day.

Thank you for all you do.

George Azevedo Jr, Agent

f & StP te F.a,,.m®

Insurance Lie#: 0505345 718 Lincoln Center Stockton, CA 95207 Bus: 209-474-3285 1601485

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State Farm, Bloomington, IL

Thank You For Voting Us One Of The Best Children’s Stores In San Joaquin for 11 years!

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A L L E R GY I M MUNOLOGY & A S T HM A

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Thank you for Voting us one of the Best Auto Body Shops in San Joaquin!

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THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST DOG TRAINER IN SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY! We are committed to providing dog owners with the knowledge and skills they need to communicate with their dogs. This will enable them to develop a close, healthy bond with their canine friend.

This relationship is critical in ensuring that the human-canine partnership is maintained & dog behavior issues don’t lead to owners giving up on their dog.

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Stephanie Chrissy Desiree and Amy

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BEST OF THE BEST

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING Willow Tree Children’s Boutique Sassy Pants Children’s Boutique Caterpillar Children’s Boutique GYMNASTICS GymStars Gymnastics Impact Sports Champion Gymnastics INDOOR FAMILY FUN World of Wonders Science Museum Impact Sports Sky Zone Trampoline Park MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL Tibon’s Goju Ryu Fighting Arts and Supplies Cutting Edge Martial Arts VALOR Training Center CHILDREN’S PHOTOGRAPHER Sweet Sisters Photography Caroline Photography Little Love Story Photography & Design PRESCHOOL Vinewood Preschool Snell’s Pre-Kindergarten Central Methodist Nursey PRIVATE SCHOOL St. Mary’s High School Presentation Parish School Cathedral of the Annunciation School

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ACCOUNTANT/CPA FIRM Iacopi, Lenz & Company All About Numbers Bowman & Company AUTO BODY SHOP All Foreign & Domestic Body Shop Fix Auto Stockton American Auto Body BANK (LOCAL) Bank of Stockton F&M Bank BAC Community Bank CREDIT UNION (LOCAL) Financial Center Credit Union Golden 1 Credit Union Premier Community Credit Union DOG TRAINER Bone-a-Fide Dog Training The Canine Culture Sycamore Lane Kennels DRY CLEANER Parkwoods Cleaners Guild Dry Cleaners & Alterations Fresh Cleaners FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER Jon & Jess Studio Sweet Sister’s Photography Caroline Photography

THANK YOU FOR YOUR VOTE!

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Mendoza & Figone Attorneys at Law

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INSURANCE AGENT (INDIVIDUAL) State Farm’s George Azevedo Jr. Farmers Insurance Agent Ryan Turner Farmers Insurance Agent Paula Ortiz LAW FIRM Kroloff, Belcher, Smart, Perry & Christopherson McKinley, Conger, Jolley & Galarneau Neumiller & Beardslee

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TATTOO STUDIO Emerald Tattoo & Piercing Union Tattoo & Piercing Quarter Horse Tattoo VETERINARY CLINIC Lodi Veterinary Hospital Venetian Pet Hospital Sierra Veterinary Clinic

Shopping

PEST CONTROL COMPANY Clark Pest Control Delk Pest Control A-1 Exterminators

AUTO DEALERSHIP Chase Chevrolet Berberian Mercedes-Benz Big Valley Ford

PET BOARDING Sycamore Lane Kennels The Canine Culture Sunset Kennels Garden Retreat

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REALTOR (INDIVIDUAL) LANCE MCHAN Senior Assisted Living O’Connor Woods The Commons on Thornton Oakmont of Brookside

REAL ESTATE FIRM Schaffer & Company Realtors Cornerstone Real Estate Group Grupe Real Estate

CONSIGNMENT SHOP New & Again Consignment Furniture Gallery My Best Friend’s Closet Superior Thrift DESIGNER EYEWEAR Great Spectacles Brookside Optometric Group Zeiter Eye

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BEST OF THE BEST

2021 WINNERS FASHIONABLE ACCESSORIES The Fashionable You Fashion Safari Regalo Bello GIFT SHOP Best Wishes Regalo Bello Boxwood Finch FINE JEWELRY Gary J. Long Jewelers Peck’s Jewelers Danz Jewelers MUSIC STORE Music Go Round The Music Box Bill’s Music Sales PET SUPPLIES Carter’s Pet Mart SHOPPING CENTER/MALL Lincoln Center Weberstown Mall Sherwood Mall

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WEDDING VENUE (INDOORS) Wine & Roses Brookside Country Club Woodbridge Golf & Country Club WEDDING VENUE (OUTDOORS) Wine & Roses Oak Farm Vineyards Viaggio Estate & Winery

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NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES

TO ALL THE HEALTH CARE WORKERS AND PUBLIC SERVICE PROFESSIONALS ON THE FRONTLINES CONTINUING TO FIGHT AGAINST THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC MAGAZINE SJMAG.COM

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Stay Active. Stay Social.

Stay Connected.

O’Connor Woods offers a wide range of senior living options and services alongside a fun, social lifestyle filled with new opportunities.

Connect with our Residential Living Advisors today!

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family License #390314809 COA #283

A Life Plan Community 104

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PLANNING FOR RETIREMENT GUIDE

the good

WHERE THERE’S A WILL,

THERE’S A WAY DEMYSTIFYING WILLS AND TRUSTS  BY FAITH LEWIS

life

Though last year’s pandemic spurred renewed interest in estate planning, a recent survey shows that two out of three adults in America do not have a will or trust in place.

“It is understandable that people are sometimes very resistant to facing their own mortality,” says Jason Perisho, an estate planning expert with the San Joaquin County-based Kroloff, Belcher, Smart, Perry, & Christopherson law firm. “But death is an inevitable part of life and it is far better to be prepared than not. Plus, once a client’s estate plan is in place, it should proSJMAG.COM

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vide some comfort that his or her wishes will be carried out.”

People often put off the process because it can seem confusing and intimidating.

Luckily, understanding the basics can help demystify the process.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A WILL AND A TRUST? A will is what most people think of when it comes to estate planning, but it is only a first step in many cases and there are important limitations to be aware of.

Wills can outline a person’s wishes for how their property is distributed after their death, who can and cannot become a beneficiary, and can nominate guardians for any under-aged children.

“While someone can include their wishes for the distribution of real property in his/her will, if the value of the entire estate is in excess of $162,500, a probate would likely be necessary in order to distribute the estate,” Jason explains. A probate is an oftentimes lengthy and expensive legal process imposed by California laws that requires a will to be proved in court before the beneficiaries can take possession of the assets left to them.

A trust, on the other hand, is further reaching and facilitates the distribution

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of large value assets like homes, stock and brokerage accounts, and high-value checking or savings accounts. The trustee manages the sale or distribution of assets after the settlor’s (the person who sets up the trust) death without the need to get the court involved, alleviating the cost and stress for the family.

“Ideally, a will should state how one’s personal property is to be distributed and a trust should state how real property and high-balance accounts are distributed,” Jason says. “In my practice, unless a person has very minimal assets, I always recommend executing both.”

WHO SHOULD HAVE A WILL OR TRUST? AND WHEN SHOULD YOU GET ONE? “Anyone who owns a home, a business, other real property or other high-value assets should have a will and a trust, no matter the age,” Jason advises. “It is never too early to get these documents into effect, though many people wait until it is too late.”

He adds that typically, each spouse will have their own will and shared property like real estate) would be included in a shared trust.

WHAT SHOULD SENIORS KEEP IN MIND? “My biggest piece of advice would be to meet with an estate planning attorney to see what you need for your specific situation,” Jason says.

All too often people push off the decision longer than they should. For example, if someone is diagnosed with dementia, they will no longer be able to execute or amend an estate plan. This can have consequences even before they pass as the estate planning process can also outline end of life decisions, organ donation, and management of financial assets.

“People do not like thinking about these decisions, but it sure beats the alternative of not having your wishes documented or followed, or subjecting your family to a costly, lengthy, and usually unnecessary, probate proceeding, which could give rise to conflicts between the beneficiaries,” Jason says.

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THE San Joaquin

GOOD LIFE

Resource Directory Plan ahead for retirement with our guide to local services, communities, and options for the most important time in life.

For voting our Hospice & Palliative Care as one of San Joaquin’s Best!

 Creekside Center Creekside Center is a skilled nursing facility located in Stockton, CA. Our center has an attractive warm atmosphere in a neighborhood setting. Patients and family can stroll the beautiful courtyards and sit in the lounge by the fire. At Creekside Center, we offer select menus and snacks in dining rooms with a garden setting. The facility offers in-house therapy 7 days a week in our Rehab Recovery Suites. All care is patientcentered and promotes independence. The goal is to return our patients to good health and spirit.

CREEKSIDE CENTER

9107 N Davis Road | Stockton 209-478-6488 creeksidecenter.com

 Community Hospice For nearly 40 years, Community Hospice has provided compassionate and quality medical and nursing care, services, and resources to terminally ill patients and their loved ones free of charge. Community Hospice believes no one should face their journey alone, and provides medical care, education, emotional, and spiritual support for terminally ill patients and their loved ones regardless of their ability to pay.

Today, Community Hospice also offers patient services and programs for those in Stanislaus, San Joaquin, Merced, Calaveras, Mariposa, Tuolumne, and parts of Contra Costa, Sacramento, Alameda, and Santa Clara counties.

COMMUNITY HOSPICE

2431 W. March Ln., Suite 100, Stockton (209) 477-6300; Toll Free: (866) 645-4567 HospiceHeart.org

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4368 Spyres Way Modesto, CA 95356 209.578.6300

2431 W. March Lane, Suite 100 Stockton, CA 95207 209.477.6300

 Eskaton O’Connor Woods Eskaton believes in empowering older adults by developing living environments that provide the highest levels of control and adaptability. Partnering with K4Connect and Amazon Alexa, Eskaton has integrated voice-activated and smart sensor technology into residential living apartments using everyday devices such as lights and thermostats. The integration of voice-control is transforming the way residents, regardless of age or physical ability, interact with and personalize their homes. For those with mobility or vision challenges, these features are exceptionally useful and easy to use. To learn how Eskaton is Transforming the Aging Experience, visit our website or give us a call today!

ESKATON

5105 Manzanita Ave., Carmichael, CA 95608 1-866-ESKATON (1-866-375-2866) www.eskaton.org

 Hospice of San Joaquin The mission of Hospice of San Joaquin, a not-for-profit organization, is to provide comprehensive and compassionate medical care, counseling, and support to terminally ill patients and their families, regardless

hospiceheart.org Community Hospice CA100000783 | CA100000613

of ability to pay, they aim to educate and collaborate with healthcare providers and the public in promoting quality end-of-life care. Hospice of San Joaquin has the only Hospice House in San Joaquin County with a 6-bed hospice inpatient facility. Hospice of San Joaquin believes that the end of life can be just as beautiful as the beginning. Hospice of San Joaquin has three offices to serve you: Stockton, Lodi, and Manteca.

HOSPICE OF SAN JOAQUIN 3888 Pacific Ave., Stockton (209) 957-3888 HospiceSJ.org

results that

Rock

the good

life

A SPECIAL BI-MONTHLY RETIREMENT SECTION

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escape

How To Spend 72 Near-Perfect Hours in Napa Valley  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

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Clos Du Val

Krug Carriage House

Let’s be honest, we could spend weeks exploring every nook and cranny of this gorgeous, vino-filled valley brimming with more than 375 wineries ripe with the local bounty.

However, most of us don’t have the time, or the liver capacity, to escape for that long. So, instead we curated a near-perfect three-day itinerary to help you explore the best Napa Valley has to offer from food to wine to nightlife and more. One big lesson learned in visiting Napa is it can take 30 minutes to cross one side of the valley to the other, so location is key. Instead of blindly googling “best wineries in Napa,” follow our route to make the most of your never-enough-time in the Valley.

Sky & Vine

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escape

Day 1

Arrive early enough to start with a breakfast flight. Gabrielle Collection Taste + is a downtown tasting room featuring Gabrielle’s wines. Best known for her estate-grown, no-fuss cabernets, the winery has a surprisingly large range of sips to pour, and with a breakfast pairing option, you can’t go wrong. The menu changes here and there but the quality never falters. A young staff of rising stars are behind the masterpieces, which use ingredients made at the vineyard (many of which are for sale inside).

Stop by to enjoy the lineup of four wines matched with four bites—we guarantee you won’t leave hungry—on the gorgeous patio smack in the middle of Downtown Napa before stepping inside to purchase cabernet sea salt, local honey, and lavender-infused bath bombs, all made using items from Gabrielle’s Napa property. 1000 Main St., #150, Napa Post breakfast, continue the fun by jetting over to Inglenook, a gorgeous property established in 1879.

Here, the greenery runs wild up the chateau walls, resem-

bling a European estate. Inside, tours are available of the chateau and outdoor tables offer a stellar view of the rolling green hills as you sip beneath the shade of a canopy.

Regardless of where you choose to enjoy your wines, the sips will not disappoint.

We suggest a Heritage Tasting or Library Experience (sixty minutes and ninety minutes respectively). The first grants you access to estate history with a seated sommelier-hosted experience complete with wines and an array of artisanal cheeses. The library tasting includes a property tour and a seated tasting inside one of the Chateau’s historic cellars. 1991 St. Helena Hwy., Rutherford For dinner, pull up to Gott’s Roadside at the Oxbow Public Market. The counter-serve eatery offers a menu filled with hearty burgers, sandwiches, soups,

Embassy Suites Napa Valley

Clif Family

Clos Du Val

TUCK YOURSELF IN FOR THE NIGHT The Embassy Suites Napa Valley Hotel is an elevated stay experience that not only offers laidback, romantic ambiance, but also a prime location near downtown. Grab a room and wander through the outdoor patio, which features a pond donning a single swan, small tables available for cracking open a bottle and enjoying each other’s company, and two pools. 1075 California Blvd., Napa

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Clos Du Val

Sequoia Grove

and more. The list of burgers is so long I don’t even want to tell you what to order.

You’ll read through the descriptions on the menu and make a good pick. Take your number outside with a glass of wine or refreshing lemonade and people watch at the market while you dine. 644 1st St., Napa If you’re not ready to call it quits just

yet, now is the time to explore the local nightlife. Strolling up and down the main streets will unlock a lot of opportunities for continuing the party. We recommend a foray into Sky & Vine, a luxury rooftop bar with a menu of small plates and plenty of cocktails to choose from. 1260 1st St., Napa

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escape

Day 2

Give yourself some time to sleep in before starting another long day of vino exploration. If you checked in to The Embassy Suites Napa Valley Hotel, a complimentary breakfast awaits you.

With COVID-19 restrictions in place, the sit-down affair turns to grab-and-go style, so ask the front desk when you check in what to expect.

Once you’ve fueled up for the day, get in the car and drive to Clos du Val. The renovated space offers a modern tasting environment with rustic charm.

Somm-hosted tastings allow for a deep education of the Clos du Val property, the wines sourced there, and more. The goal is to walk you through a line-up of wines the property is most proud of while also catering to your own tastes.

Before you leave, peep the wine club here—it’s a good offer in a Valley full of them. 5330 Silverado Trail, Napa After you’ve loosened up at your first tasting of the day, head to Judd’s Hill Winery & MicroCrush to pay wine maker for the day. The wine blending experience is seriously cool.

A table will be laid out for you with a collection of wines from the barrel ready for you to play winemaker and scientist, using beakers and measuring tools. A host will walk you through

the process, as you mix and match different wines together to create your own blend. After you’ve perfected the final product, give the host your blend percentages, snap a photo in the vines to adorn the label, and cork your own bottles to take home and enjoy. From start to finish, the experience is very hands-on, and allows for a break in the sip-and-talk tastings you’ll be enjoying most of the weekend. 2332 Silverado Trail, Napa For lunch, take a quick jaunt down the road to Silverado Vineyards (another place worthy of an overnight stay). The opulent grounds are lush and green, beckoning you to grab a picnic basket and sprawl out. Inside, staff puts together gorgeous baskets complete with sandwiches, cheeses, salamis, and accoutrements, plus a bottle or two of wine (depending on the package you pick) to uncork on the lawn. We can’t think of a better way to enjoy the afternoon sun in Napa, especially on a mild day.

Don’t be shy, stay a while.

No one will be rushing you off, and you can feel free to roam the property, glass of wine in hand.

6121 Silverado Trail, Napa

Judd’s Hill Winery

Silverado Vineyards

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Clif Family

After you’ve headed back to your hotel to freshen up, and maybe taken one of those lazy late-afternoon wine naps, head to a late dinner at Brix Napa Valley.

When the weather is nice enough, ask to sit outside.

The big lawns are open to diners and, at the right time of day, offer a colorful sunset amidst a backdrop of the Valley’s hills. The menu here changes often so there is always something new to try. However, we dare you not to order a pasta. The house-made noodles and decadent sauces are the stuff foodie’s dreams are made of. But whatever you do, don’t leave without dessert. The chef makes a Meyer LemonTart—fresh lemon complemented by toasted marshmallow and a kiss of huckleberry—that will put you into a food coma before you can stop yourself from downing the whole thing. 7377 St. Helena Hwy, Napa

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escape

Tra Vigne Pizza

Day 3

The upside to a long weekend is just when you think it’s going to end, you have one more day to pack in can’t-misses. Here, we’re going to shift focus to St. Helena—a section of the Napa Valley that houses some of the most popular wineries in the world. There are plenty to explore and the best way to do it is to order a wine passport so you can taste to your heart’s content without worrying about individual tasting fees. Even with the passport, however, reservations are recommended.

Start your day in Downtown St. Helena and walk the streets filled with shops and galleries. The Station serves light breakfast fare and coffee in a converted gas station (hence the name) for an easy brunch you shouldn’t miss, owned by the masterminds behind Gott’s Roadhouse. 153 Main St., St Helena Start the tasting journey at Trinchero Napa Valley. Dubbed “the little book of big experiences,” the wine passport will grant you a library tasting of rare wines that boast earthy undertones. Your host will share details of how the geography affects the wine and lends to different flavor profiles. The outdoor seating here is among the best in Napa, fully shielded from the elements without having to retreat inside. 3070 St. Helena Hwy, St. Helena Next, break for lunch. Clif Family Winery offers a wine and lunch combo that you won’t experience anywhere else.

Executive Chef John McConnell, who works out of a food truck on property, will be one of your hosts, dropping off gourmet plates to match the season and the wines you are

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drinking. Ingredients for the seasonal bites are sourced from the Clif Family Farm, which makes them even more special, and every farm-fresh bite you receive is bursting with complicated flavors that magically just work together, thanks to the chef’s expertise. Not to mention, the lunch is a filling affair, with large plates and multiple courses served to each guest. Fun Fact: This is the same family that makes the popular Clif Bars. 709 Main St., St Helena Charles Krug is next on the itinerary and it’s both the oldest and one of the most well-known wineries in town, owned by Peter Mondavi Sr. The large castleesque winery evokes visions of everything you’d imagine wine tasting in Napa should entail.

Grab a seat on a picnic bench outside and work your way

through an estate tasting. Added Bonus: Your pass grants you 20 percent off bottles. 2800 Main St., St Helena If you have it in you to fit in one more tasting before calling it quits, stopover at Sequoia Grove Winery to escape into a sequoia tree grove and sip the property’s bounty. You’ll dive into four wines, served one by one, as your designated host explains each in depth. If you’re ready to nosh again, consider ordering a small charcuterie plate, a good excuse to bask in the glory of the picturesque patio for just a while longer. 8338 St. Helena Hwy., Napa The final item on your itinerary involves treating yourself to some of the best—and most creative— pizza in Napa. The casual spot serves Northern Italian cuisine in a no-fuss atmosphere, including a tree-covered courtyard. While everything on the menu is divine, we obviously can’t suggest you order anything but the signature dish—pizza (although starting with some arancini balls won’t spoil your appetite).

This is another situation where everything is good, so choose the pie that best caters to your tastes and pair it with a local vino. 1016 Main St., St. Helena

ST. HELENA’S BEST ACCOMMODATIONS It’s almost easy to miss Harvest Inn as you drive down Main Street, as it’s tucked right in between the wineries. It’s impossible to tell just how grand the hotel is from the road, but once you pull up, the fairytale comes into focus. Large, stately stone buildings house over-sized rooms with balconies and window seats proffering views of the vineyard and on a warm day, the hotel’s pool is the perfect retreat before, after, and between tastings.

Some rooms also have their own hot tubs, perfect for a late night dip under the stars. In between the five “neighborhoods” on site, lush landscaping surrounds benches to take a seat and breathe in the serene surroundings. Expert Tip: Dine in for breakfast before you depart.

Harvest Inn

Advancing Cannabis Industry Interests Across California Drivon Consulting has been a catalyst for Cannabis policy reform across the San Joaquin Valley over the last five years, during which over a dozen local municipalities have moved forward in the regulation of commercial cannabis businesses including San Joaquin County. The firm has overseen the approval and/or recommendation for approval for more than 15 local cannabis land use entitlements and operating permits for clients since 2016, along with the acquisition of over 30 commercial cannabis licenses for retail, nursery, cultivation, distribution, manufacturing and event organizing from the state of California.

Drivon Consulting is dedicated to advancing and protecting the interests of clients throughout California, including established legacy cannabis operators with decades of experience from the days of medicinal cannabis in California, to entrepreneurs, investors and traditional famers entering into the space in light of the Valley’s potential to serve as a major production and distribution hub Statewide.

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Zach Drivon is a 3rd Generation Stockton Attorney specializing in Commercial Cannabis Business licensing, government relations, regulation, and compliance. Zach led the way in establishing the first commercial cannabis businesses to be approved in Stockton, Stanislaus County, Modesto, Waterford, Atwater, Merced, and San Joaquin County.

San Joaquin Magazine’s award winning restaurant for 6 years in a row

“Come as a customer, leave as our family!”

A personalized, Japanese dining experience catered to your taste buds.

Choose fresh, exquisite dishes both on and off our menu.

Best Japanese

307 S. Lower Sacramento RD. Suite D, Lodi, CA 95242 209-334-3131 www.sushikomachi.com

Best Sushi SJMAG.COM

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V OTED

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DINE IN TAKE OUT CATERING

ASIAN BISTRO & SUSHI BAR TRACY 2610 S. Tracy Blvd. 209.830.8288

LATHROP 15138 Harlan Rd. 209.858.1818

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R E S TA U R A N T S | W I N E | D R I N K S | S W E E T S

wine dine

A FAMILY AFFAIR

THE LEGACY AT DON LUIS MEXICAN RESTAURANT STANDS THE TEST OF TIME  BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D DAN HOOD

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As long as it’s existed, Don Luis Mexican Restaurant has been a family business. Formerly owned by Chef and Owner Cuahtemoc (Cuate) Rivera’s in-laws (who also own Casa Flores), Cuate took over in 2004.

Since then, he’s made a lot of changes, but about 30 percent of the menu stays true to the original, inspired by the Mercado-Herrera and Flores families he married into.

Cuate’s wife, Alexandra, however, isn’t the only one who grew up in a culture of food. In Mexico City, a young Cuate—the last of nine children—was a mama’s boy SJMAG.COM

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| JULY 2021 119

cravings

and used to stick close to her in the kitchen while his siblings were at work and school. Between her influence, visits from his grandparents, and a woman down the street who recruited him to help food prep for her taqueria in exchange for sweet bread his family couldn’t afford, Cuate quickly became enthralled with cooking.

As a result, much of the cuisine is inspired by Cuate’s Mexico City roots. He says the biggest difference between his restaurant and others is there isn’t one flavor that permeates all dishes. While chain restaurants use the same spices and bases for multiple meals, Cuate cooks everything from scratch and takes time to develop each recipe individually. This technique also allows him to control portions and customize food as needed to meet customer’s preferences and dietary restrictions.

At Don Luis, you will taste influence from Tex-Mex, a nod to Cuate’s beginnings in food at Senor Frogs (where he and his wife met in 1996) and Angelo’s Mexican Restaurant in Lodi. You will, however, also notice the complexities of the fare that comes from his experiences in Mexico City where

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from the slow cooking his with 40-50 taquerias grandparents taught him within a few blocks, to the taco preparation the ones that offered learned in Mexico City— something unusual were and he plans to pass that the ones that stood out. knowledge along to his Lastly, Cuate’s own own children. “I want my education adds the final kids to have their own touch to all of his dishes. [lifestyle],” Cuate says.

After discovering his love However, “When they for the food industry come to the restaurant stateside, Cuate graduated they look like they are from Le Cordon Bleu and made to work in the traveled to Europe to work restaurant… they see on the Almalfi Coast to how passionate I am for hone his craft and learn what I do.” And. all five of better techniques for Cuate’s kids have a role prepping and cooking at Don Luis. His 15-yearmeals. Small changes old—born on Cinco de such as using chicken Mayo—is bubbly and stock instead of chicken enjoys interacting with broth in his gravies and guests, while his six-yearthe way he marinates old cleans tables and meats with a French flair, plays restaurant at home helped develop the menu with her dad. “It’s in their beyond what he originally genes,” Cuate says. inherited, adding dishes While Cuate has such as Chile relleno and certainly taken liberties Alhambre. The menudo with the family’s menu, is elevated with Cuate’s he says the way the own style and the corn business operates is beef hash is fresh, not the same. From the like the canned stuff you kitchen setup to the work find at the store. Even the atmosphere, Cuate says American brunch staple these are the attributes he Chicken-Fried Steak admired most about his emulates the breading in-laws’ businesses, and techniques Cuate learned will continue in school. at both Don Cuate Luis and future inherited DON LUIS MEXICAN ventures, much of his RESTAURANT 5940 CA-99, Stockton carrying on the knowledge (209) 931-9163 Flores legacy. from his DonLuisMexicanRestaurant.com ancestors—

SJMAG.COM

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in the news

GET THE DISH

A ROUNDUP OF WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE 209 FOOD AND WINE SCENE  BY SUZANNE LEDBETTER

q The wait is over—

PAPAPAVLO’S BISTRO BAR in Lodi is open and ready to serve you. The Pappas family opened their second location in the spring, and Lodi locals are thrilled to have a location in town to get their gyro grub on. Fan favorites are the flaming cheese, calamari, and Eliana’s Chicken Sandwich.

Papapavlos.com

Calivirgin Winery and Olive Oil Mill to Open Soon Lodi Area Olive Oil Producer Expands to Include Wine, Agritourism and More!

If you haven’t heard the news, Lodi’s esteemed Calivirgin Olive Oil company recently embarked on a 12,000 square foot expansion that will host more than just their award-winning olive oils. The modern, expansive space will be home to their Calivirgin Olive Oils, Lodi Olive Oil, and Calivines, their flagship wine brand. This is big news for agritourism in Lodi wine country and will bring together two of our region’s passions—a winery and olive mill. Guests will have the opportunity to watch how the company creates liquid gold thanks to the interactive and open architecture design that will offer peeks at how the company harvests and produces olive oil on site. Be on the lookout for the grand opening.

q

EXPANSIONS, EXPERIENCES, AND EATS It’s been a minute since we’ve had the chance to share recent news in the Lodi wine scene. See what you’ve missed!

q If you’ve been out to

OAK FARM VINEYARDS over the past year, you know they have expanded the facility in a major way.

The winery is now live with an Events Barrel Room that is available to rent and can seat up to 140 guests. The stunning, 2,000 square feet building is both rustic and elegant, with an incredible lighting array that is a serious showstopper.

OakFarmVineyards.com

q BOKISCH VINEYARDS

recently acquired a charming mobile wine bar from Know Place. The BOKISCH LA BODEGA WINE BAR is soon to be Bokisch’s latest tasting experience. Guests will have the opportunity to sip award-winning Spanish wines under the shade of a massive oak tree at the Bodega Bar. BokischVineyards.com

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If you are missing wine tasting in person, look no further than ACQUIESCE WINERY AND VINEYARDS newest addition—the Elevated Tasting Experience. The reservation only tasting includes a flight of four awardwinning wines alongside artfully curated food pairings.

The fee is $20 or is free to wine club members.

AcquiesceVineyards.com

CRUMBL COOKIES CRAZE HITS THE 209 If cookies are what you crave, no doubt you’ve hopped on the Crumbl cookie craze. This past spring, they opened shop in Lodi and plan on opening a Stockton location, too. Not your average cookie chain, Crumbl cookies features four different specialty flavors each week, alongside their famous chocolate chip cookie and chilled sugar cookie.

The menu special changes every week, with rotating flavors.

Thank You For voting Us #1 Waffle & One Of The Best Bloody Mary’s In San Joaquin

WAFFLE HD OI U N ESRE Come see us at our newly remodeled 50s style diner. We can’t wait to see you!

1540 E. March Lane Suite B-5, Stockton 209-951-1175 Americanwafflediner.com American Waffle Diner Americawaffles SJMAG.COM | JULY 2021 123

summer sippers

BATTLE OF THE WINE GLASSES  BY SUZANNE LEDBETTER

What kind of wine glasses does one need to enjoy their favorite bottle of fermented grape juice? The truth is, it only matters if it matters to you.

But if you’ve taken the time to pick out a special wine, or even age one in your cellar, getting the best possible sip from a wine glass can, in fact, make a difference. The truth is, not all wine glasses are created equal. The style, size, mouth, and material of a wine glass all plays a role in how a wine pours. So, if you are wondering whether you really need a separate glass for reds and whites, or if you want to make sure you have all the necessary stemware to impress, we’ve done the research for you! Read on.

CHAMPAGNE

WHITE WINE GLASS

When it comes to busting out the bubbly, flutes are the way to go. They are the perfect vessel for your celebratory toast, and they look festive on a serving tray, too. The long stem and narrow shape allows the bubbly to retain its carbonation, but they do not necessarily enhance the aromas of the wine. Expert tip: hand wash these delicate glasses to make sure they don’t break.

Your basic white wine glass is usually shaped like a tulip.

The glass has a round bowl that goes straight up before tapering slightly at the top. The shape concentrates the aromas of the wine at the rim and traps them ever so slightly to help you get a sniff of the fruit characteristics of the wine. The smaller bowl size also helps to keep the wine cool longer.

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BURGUNDY WINE GLASS

BORDEAUX WINE GLASS

DESSERT WINE GLASS

Shaped like an upside-down mushroom, these glasses have wide bowls and taper at the top to create a narrow rim. The large surface area of the bowl allows for fervent swirling and the top ensures the presence of the aromas in the pinot noir or nebbiolo.

Expert tip: Never pour wine past the bulge of the glass or you will spill the wine as you swirl it.

This glass is like the tulip shape of the white wine glass— but super-sized!

The taper at the top of the glass is less pronounced than its white counterpart, but it’s the perfect shape to sip a cabernet, syrah, or even a tempranillo.

The straight sides and large bowl allow for oxygen to penetrate the wine as you swirl, softening the tannins and opening the wine to make it more approachable.

As the name implies, these dessert wines are meant to be served after dinner. And because most are extremely sweet and higher in alcohol compared to other styles of wine, the glass is much smaller is size. The petite size allows the drinker to capture the rich aromas and flavors.

EDITOR’S PICKS Best Stemless: Riedel O Wine Tumbler Best Splurge: Zalto Denk’art Burgundy Wine Glass Best Rated: Schott Zwiesel Pure Collection Best Insulated: Vinglace Best Value: Libbey Vineyard Reserve Wine Glass Set Most Unique: Crate and Barrel Camille Long Stem Wine Glass

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US #1 BEST PIZZA!

1744 w. hammer ln. • stockton • 209.477.2677 SJMAG.COM

| JULY 2021 125

cravings cravings

LATE NIGHT BITES MICHAEL’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA DEBUTS AN AFTER-HOURS MENU  BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D DAN HOOD

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At Michael’s New York Style Pizza, there is one menu item that reigns supreme, but while pizza is king, it’s not the only dish locals go gaga over at Michael’s. In an effort to elevate the pizzeria into a late night destination, owner Gina Calder took a stab at revamping the menu.

The unveiling of late night bites in the later hours of the night enhances the after-hours experience and highlights bar food that compliments the newly expanded bar and drink offerings.

“We make the majority of the menu here,” Gina says.

“And we have been creative with our appetizer menu as well as adding pizza by the slice for late night dining.”

A few standout items include housemade jalapeno poppers, burgers, and pulled pork sliders. “This menu is different because it specifically focuses on the bar and the food coming out of the café,” Gina says. That means, in addition to bringing the family in for a pie, Michael’s is also now a go-to destination for late night drinks and after-drinking snacks, enhancing the new cocktail menu and expanded beer and wine offerings.

For those looking to come in for a late dinner or just grab a few cocktails, the bar is open until 10 PM every night.

However, Gina says

if the business is there, they won’t be sticklers on the time. “We will always stay open for those late night parties and diners,” she says. And with football on the horizon, Gina only plans to get busier. “We have 12 televisions for all of the sporting events and everyone will be able to watch their favorite teams or teams from any angle.”

To accommodate, Michael’s bar will open at 10 AM on weekends.

Currently it is open from 2-10 PM daily.

GINA’S PICKS Cocktail and food pairings from the late night menu • The Hipster pairs well with any of the pizzas • The Duke pairs well with the pulled pork sandwich • The Aloha Breeze pairs well with the chicken wings

MICHAEL’S NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA

2300 W. Alpine Ave., Stockton (209) 462-6668 MichaelsPizzaCafe. com

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HOT DOGGITY DOG! JULY IS NATIONAL HOT DOG MONTH  BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D

DAN HOOD

HOT DOG MELT

Looking to celebrate this national holiday in style? Look no further than the Hot Dog Melt at The Creamery in Stockton. Made with a Genoa milk roll, a quarter-pound hot dog, two strips of bacon, and melted Jack cheese served over shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, this is a culinary creation beyond your average ballpark frank. The Creamery, 5756 Pacific Ave., # 3, Stockton, (209) 952-1111

HOT DOGS BY THE NUMBERS 150 million hot dogs are consumed every 4th of July 20 billion hot dogs are eaten every year

by Americans – that’s 70 hotdogs per person per year 95 percent of American households serve hotdogs 818 hot dogs are eaten every second between Memorial Day and Labor Day 73 is Joey Chestnut’s world record for most hot

dogs consumed in under 10 minutes 74 hot dogs equals more than 12,000 calories 84 is the maximum number of hot dogs scientists say is humanly possible to eat in under 10 minutes 45 is the woman’s record for most hot dogs consumed in 10 minutes set by Sonya Thomas 1972 was the year of the first infamous Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest

$9.95

2021 NATHAN’S HOT DOG EATING CONTEST

Since 1972, spectators have been gathering to watch competitive eaters cram as many hot dogs as possible down their throats in 10 minutes or less—buns included. The competition typically sees 40,000 in-person spectators (although social distancing rules will likely see this number restricted in 2021) and another 1 million people tuning in from home. On July 4, San Jose’s own Joey Chestnut will go up against other competitive eaters to see if he can bust his own world record—or if anyone else can dethrone the reigning champ.

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CHECK OUT SMITTYSWINGSANDTHINGS.COM

FOR OUR MENU & TO ORDER. THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST BUFFALO WINGS 5 YEARS IN A ROW!

SMITTYSWINGS ANDTHINGS

209 - 227 - 7479

DINE-IN IS NOW OPEN! TUE-SAT 12-7PM & SUN 12-6PM. (Hours listed are temporary due to Covid & staffing.

See website for updates)

5654 N PERSHING AVE. STOCKTON 209-227-7479

Our tasting room and wedding venue is surrounded by lushly landscaped grounds, a willow shaded pond and vineyards.

Wine Club • Wine pick up available • Purchase online at mettlerwine.com

SJMAG.COM

| JULY 2021 129

summer sips

THE NEXT MARGARITAVILLE TIA LINDA’S BRINGS A TWIST TO WINE COUNTRY  BY FAITH LEWIS / D DAN HOOD Since their launch in 2020, Tia Linda’s Margarita—a quick-growing, Lodi-based, and family-owned and operated business—has carved out a loyal following among local wine and beer enthusiasts and is ready to take summer by storm.

Lodi native Meghan Hayward, along with brother Graham Christy and good friend Mike Stroh, founded Tia Linda’s Margarita. Meghan’s father, Dan, joined to spearhead sales. As a result, their Aunt Linda’s family-famous margaritas found their footing in wine country.

“Wine and beer have definitely come into the spotlight of our region and we feel Tia Linda’s is a perfect fit to be alongside both,” Meghan says. “We have a lot of similar principles to many of the local producers in that we are starting with all-natural premium ingredients, we’re family owned and pushing to create something new that stands out while enhancing people’s lives with a little spirit and fun!”

And Tia Linda’s certainly does stand out among

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the mass-produced, ready-to-drink cocktail options you’ll find at the store. It’s closer to the margarita you’d expect to find at your favorite bar than in a bottle.

With talk of new flavors and a physical Tia Linda’s location, could Lodi be the next Margaritaville? Well, as Meghan says, “Who wouldn’t want a Margarita stop along the wine trail?”

For the time being, you can pick up your Tia Linda’s at Lodi Avenue Liquors, Lakewood Liquors, SaveMart in Lodi, Woodbridge Country Club, and other local retailers (a complete list of locations is online). So, the only question left is… What’s the best way to enjoy your Tia Linda’s? That depends on who you ask!

Meghan: “I prefer mine blended, slushy style!”

Graham: “Straight from a cold can or out of the bottle, on the rocks with a salted rim.”

Mike: “On the rocks, no salt.”

Dan: “Any way!”

CAN IT

This summer, you can leave the glasses and the original 1.75-liter bottle at home: the Tia Linda’s Margaritas are ready to go anywhere you go in a brand new 200ml can. “They’re perfect for river runs or poolside where glass just isn’t as convenient,” Meghan says.

Margaritas on the beach, anyone?

TIA LINDA’S MARGARITA

TiaLindas.com @tialindasmargarita

Happiness Happens Here We’re happy to be a part of your lives and this great community.

Because of you, we’re happy to be voted BEST ZINFANDEL and BEST TASTING ROOM in the 2021 Best of San Joaquin.

HARNEY LANE WINERY & VINEYARDS HARNEYLANE.COM SJMAG.COM

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summertime sips

TRENDING: LOCAL SELTZERS

CELEBRATE SUMMER RIGHT WITH FLAVORS FROM CALIFORNIA SELTZER COMPANY  BY ANGELA RUDOLPH You’ll be hard pressed to find a more exuberant group of owners than those behind California Seltzer Company: Charlie Lippert, Veronica Camp, Joe Ehlers, and Drew Enos. This visionary team of four have developed a unique drinking experience with fun at the forefront and are gearing up to open California’s first seltzery later this year.

It all started during the summer of 2020 brainstorming for an upcoming event for Five Window Beer Co. (a craft brewery that serves up premium beer as well as the California Seltzer Company seltzers owned by Joe and Charlie). Unfortunately, the event was cancelled due to the pandemic. “I had made some seltzer slushies for our team and it occurred to us – let’s try making spiked lemonade from the lemons we’ve been given,” Veronica explains. From there, pure magic happened.

Cashing in on the already popular sparkling seltzer trend of refreshing, delicious, and fun fizzy adult beverages, it was a no-brainer to dive into a new market. The group got to work making the hard seltzers with 4.5 percent alcohol content. Veronica experimented with

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various flavor profiles, eventually crafting their five current flavors: Pineapple Lemon, Berry Rush, Blood Orange, Hibiscus Lime, and their current seasonal offering, Pink Lemonade. Charlie enjoys the Pink Lemonade, Drew and Joe are all about the Blood Orange, and Veronica is partial to Pineapple Lemon but admits that Berry Rush holds a special place in her heart. “I am a former 49ers Gold Rush cheerleader,” Veronica explains. “And when I was creating these new flavors and having my friends try them, one of my previous teammates said we should give that flavor a name with a nod to our team.

Berry Rush fit perfectly!”

Their seltzers are currently offered in over 100 locations all listed at CaliforniaSeltzerCo.com. Not only is the team behind California Seltzer Company an incredibly fun group, but they also recognize those who have helped them get where they are. “We want to thank the community for supporting us in the way it has. We’ve grown rapidly in the last six months due to public support, our families and our friends. Thank you to everyone for helping us get here,” the team says.

COMING SOON

Be on the lookout late summer 2021 for the grand opening of the first Seltzery in the state, California Seltzer Company @ Lover’s Point in Pacific Grove.

Everyone is welcome at Bud’s Seafood Grille.

Friendly service, hearty portions, and a range of fish, seafood, pasta, steak, and poultry entrees make Bud’s a great choice for a business lunch, family dinner, or night out for two. Every meal begins with fresh sourdough bread made exclusively for Bud’s by our local Genova Bakery. The covered 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 or two. We also invite you to come visit the newly renovated bar and dining room which now offers more window tables for a lovely view of Lincoln Center while you dine. While at the bar, take advantage of the nightly deals on bar bites. Please be sure to ask about our banquet and catering services for your special event or holiday party. Full bar and banquet room available. Open for lunch, dinner, and scrumptious Sunday brunch. Happy hour daily with $1.00 off all beer & well drinks 4pm -6:30pm.

Pack the

Perfect

Picnic with Weibel

July Special

only $10

Receive two Weibel stemless wine glasses & four 187ml bottles of Sauvignon Blanc.

Available only in the tasting room for the month of July, while supplies last.

BUD’S SEAFOOD GRILLE 314 Lincoln Ctr., Stockton 209) 956-0270, budsseafood.com

Owners Harry and Susan Yu have been a major part of the local economy since 2007 when Mikasa opened its location in Lathrop.

Cooking with local produce and only using the freshest fish right from the Bay has always been key to their success. Fortunately the Yu’s chose Tracy for their newest location stocking the full bar with the most extensive liquor, sake, wine and beer selection around.

Plus, with happy hour 7 days a week you’ll be sure to get your fill! Mikasa also offers off site catering and a separate banquet room for all your rehearsal dinners, large parties or business needs. Try the special SJM Roll pictured).

MIKASA JAPANESE BISTRO

9 N. School Street | 209.370.6013 | WEIBEL.com |

Meet our Doctors...

Free Initial Consultation Now Accepting New Patients!

Same Day Appointments Available Walk-Ins Welcome Now Open 6 Days a Week OVER 15 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Three Locations to Serve You! Dr. Joseph Russell (Left)

2610 S. Tracy Blvd. Ste. 110 Tracy, 209) 830-8288 15138 S Harlan Rd., Lathrop, 209) 858-1818

Specializing in Accident Rehabilitation, Gentle Thorough Corrections Using the Latest Equipment. Life West Graduate

Dr. Timothy Coykendall (center)

Qualified Medical Examiner, Certified Pediatric Chiropractic Practitioner Graduated Summa Cum Laude Nestled on the Brickwalk in Lincoln Center Midgley’s Public House specializes in steaks and seafood, with an extensive appetizer menu and unique desserts. Our bar menu consist of several unique cocktails, fine wines and spirits. We have several dining options including our extensive patio, dining room with floor to ceiling open windows, and a large bar area. We offer several dining options for large parties and do catering of all sizes, including our own food truck, Midgley's Public Truck, that can be rented for private and public events.

MIDGLEY’S PUBLIC HOUSE 296 Lincoln Center Stockton, 209) 474-7700 midgleyspublichouse.com

Dr. Johannes Garrido (Right) Nutritional Certification Auto Rehabilitation Sport Based Focus

Specializing in:

Prenatal & Pediatric Care • Family Care • Rehabilitation Personal Injury • Sports Injury • Auto Injury Rehabilitation OFFICES IN TRACY, MANTECA, AND MOUNTAIN HOUSE:

Tracy (209)832-9221

• Mountain House (209) 836-3597 • Manteca (209) 825-5610 www.tracychiro.com • Se Habla Español

Most Insurances Accepted, Affordable Cash Plans Available

SJMAG.COM

| JULY 2021 133

in season in season

FIRE UP THE GRILL

LOCAL SAUCES AND SEASONINGS BRING THE SUMMER SIZZLE  BY SUZANNE LEDBETTER / D SUZANNE LEDBETTER Summer is officially here, and that can only mean one thing—its grilling time! With an abundance of long days, warm evenings, and poolside BBQs, we know you’ll be bringing the heat this season. While there are hundreds of sauces and seasonings to use on your favorite BBQ dishes, we’re showcasing three local brands worthy of trying. Whether you are grilling burgers, smoking baby back ribs, or serving a California tri-tip, these sauces and seasonings are sure to kick up your grilling game!

SUZANNE’S SMOKIN’ BABY BACK RIBS

Featuring Mydingr’s Dry Rub and Sweet and Spicy BBQ Sauce

INGREDIENTS 3 racks of Baby Back Ribs 1 jar Bone Suckin’ Sauce 1 jar Mydingr’s Bar-B-Que Shake Seasoning, Dry Rub 1 jar Mydingr’s Bar-B-Que Sweet and Spicy BBQ Sauce

DIRECTIONS Cover a large baking sheet with foil and remove the ribs from the packaging. Place the racks on the foil and liberally apply the dry rub on both sides of the ribs. Cover with foil and place in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

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FOR SMOKER Remove from the refrigerator and start your smoker. Set your smoker to 225 degrees and place the ribs on racks.

Let cook for three hours. Lift lid and brush the ribs with Bone Sucking BBQ sauce (a basting style sauce). When the ribs have been smoking for four and half hours, brush both sides of the ribs with Mydingr’s BBQ sauce and

turn up the smoker to 275 degrees.

Cook for an additional hour, until ribs are caramelized and tender. Remove the ribs and let them rest for ten minutes. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Get your Mydingr’s sauce and seasoning at Lakewood Meats, Fiori’s Butcher Shoppe, Ace Hardware, or at Mydingrs.com

ULTIMATE BBQ CHEESEBURGER Featuring Fiori’s Butcher Shoppe Seasoning

INGREDIENTS 2 lbs. ground chuck 1/3 c. Worcestershire sauce ¼ c. Fiori’s Butcher Shoppe Seasoning 1 package Brioche buns Aged white cheddar cheese 8 slices thick cut bacon Favorite burger toppings

DIRECTIONS Form ground beef into 1/3-pound patties and apply Worcestershire sauce. Season liberally with Fiori’s Butcher Shoppe Seasoning and place back into the refrigerator until ready to grill. Turn on

the Traeger to 350 degrees and add the bacon. Cook the bacon for 20 minutes, flip and cook for 15 minutes. Remove from the grill and set aside. Add the burgers to the grill and cook for 15 minutes. Flip patties and cook for an additional 12 minutes. Add cheese and cook for two additional minutes until cheese is melted. Remove burgers from the smoker and layer with your favorite toppings.

Get your seasoning at Fiori’s Butcher Shoppe, 400 W. Lodi Ave., (209) 3344121, FiorisDeli.com

SANTA MARIE STYLE TRI-TIP Featuring Lakewood Meats Signature Seasoning

INGREDIENTS 1 Tri-Tip 3 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce Lakewood Meats Seasoning Blend

DIRECTIONS Drizzle Worcestershire sauce on both sides of the tri tip. Season liberally with Lakewood meats seasoning blend. Prepare grill for indirect heat by placing coals on one side of the BBQ. Place meat over direct heat for two to three minutes on each side and then remove to indirect heat until internal temperature reaches 135 degrees, about 25 to 30 minutes. Let the meat rest for five minutes and slice against the grain when serving.

Grab the Lakewood Meats Signature Seasoning at Lakewood Meats, 316 N. Ham Ln., (209) 369-1122, LakewoodMeats.com SJMAG.COM

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cravings

FAST FOODIES

MICHAEL MIDGLEY REIMAGINES OUR FAVORITE FAST FOOD STAPLES  BY NORA HESTON TARTE / D DAN HOOD An ooey-gooey stack of crisp fries loaded with cheese and Thousand Island dressing; a doublepatty burger layered with sauce, pickles, and an extra slice of bread in the middle? Sometimes a good fast food meal is just what we need to satisfy a not-sohealthy craving.

But have you ever indulged in that much-anticipated snack only to be reminded that the dollar menu exists for a reason? Well, inspired by the trueTV show Fast Foodies, we decided to take our favorite drivethru menu items and give them a serious makeover—courtesy of our very own celebrity chef Michael Midgley.

Tasked with creating a gourmet version of the McDonald’s Big Mac and In N Out’s animal style fries, Michael stayed true to the original vision but added his own epic flair. Midgley’s reimagined Big Mac features a sesame seed bun, diced pickles, shredded lettuce,

and American cheese just like similar to the original. But the addition of grilled onions, a substitution of Midgley’s Public House sauce, and a base of two six-ounce certified Angus beef patties takes this burger from a paper wrapper to the dinner plate.

The animal-style fries, a not-so-secret item from In N Out’s secret menu is similar, but not quite the same—a cousin to the favorite. Michael started with thick, steak fries as the base and loaded them up with Midgley’s Public House sauce (his rendition of Thousand Island dressing) and grilled onions much like the original, but he swapped the square of cheese for a mixture of queso and Parmesan before topping it with chopped pickles and parsley.

The results are out of this world, but don’t take our word for it. Both items are available at Midgley’s Public House by request.

MIDGLEY’S PUBLIC HOUSE

296 Lincoln Center, Stockton (209) 474-7700 MidgleysPublicHouse.com

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Hailed as one of the most authentic powerhouses of Japanese cuisine in the San Joaquin valley, Komachi offers a diverse array of exquisite dishes, ranging from the freshest sashimi to mouth-watering sushi rolls. “Come as a customer, leave as our family.”

Hours: Mon - Thur 11AM to 9PM, Fri Sat 11AM to 9:30PM, Sun closed

KOMACHI SUSHI 307 S. Lower Sacramento Rd. Ste. D Lodi, 209) 334-3131 SushiKomachi.com

Celebrating their 14th year in the Historic Tracy Inn, the chefs at Tracy Thai Restaurant have produced countless satisfied customers, with their wonderfully inventive dishes. The chef makes classics dishes like ‘Pad Thai’ and ‘Tom Kar Gai’ that leave the diner feeling that they have been transported to a street in Thailand. Many of the dishes such as Eggplant prawns, or Garlic Pork reflect a homestyle feel. The Menu is a delight and there are always Lunch and Dinner Specials. The wood panels and decors at Tracy Thai will bring you to a classic home style in Thailand. With a warm, cozy ambiance and delicious food, you would enjoy your meal at Tracy Thai.

WIN DINNER fresh ON US WEEKLY WINNERS

TRACY THAI 1035 Central Ave., Tracy, 209) 833-9703

Serving San Joaquin County since 1979 We use ingredients of only the highest quality when preparing our meals. We cook using 100 percent cholesterol-free cooking oils, for a delicious and healthy meal. If you would like to order something not listed in the menu, we will do our best to accommodate you in any way we can. Gift Certificates available.

Mon-Fri: 11am-2:30pm & 5-10pm Sat-Sun: 12pm-10pm

Visit Our Contests Page

SJMAG.COM

PEKING RESTAURANT 7555 Pacific Ave., Ste. 115 Stockton, 209) 957-0617 pekingstockton.com

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cravings

BUILD-YOUR-OWN BRUNCH BOARD  BY SUZANNE LEDBETTER / D SUZANNE LEDBETTER

Brunch. It’s our favorite part of the weekend and the last hurrah before the work week hustle rears its head again. Whether you are gathering with family, brunching with girlfriends, or hosting a baby shower, we’ve got the details on how to shake things up! Forgo the traditional formal brunch in favor of this simple yet luxurious brunch board. To do it right, gather some of your favorite pastry items from one of our local bakeries and layer them on to one BIG cheeseboard. From there, the options are limitless to finish out this beautiful work of art. When you’re done, pour yourself a mimosa, whip up a bloody Mary, or even pop a bottle of rosé champagne! Bring on the ultimate brunch board!

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\STEP 1: Pick out a board, cookie sheet, or even a serving tray to build your brunch board.

STEP 2: Head to your favorite local bakery and bring home some

goodies.

STEP 3: Build up your board. We like to start by laying out the

starch components - first bagels, croissants, and muffins.

Bring on the Baked Goods Courtesy of Our Local Bakeries Everything Croissants and Sugar Buns from Ruby’s Bakery, 11 S. Church St., Unit B, Lodi, (209) 400-7972

Seasonal Muffins (pictured here are blueberry) and homeeggs, smoked salmon, bacon, sausage, or even breakfast cheeses made English Muffins from like a baby brie.

Towne Corner Café and Market, 2505 W. Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) STEP 5: Add condiments in small bowls. Cream cheese for 625-4004 breads, capers for the smoked salmon, local jams, and honey.

Multigrain Croissants from Corner Scone Bakery, 322 N. STEP 6: Add seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables. Our summer California St., Lodi, (209) 747staples include strawberries, cherries, crispy cucumbers, and 3418 crunchy radishes.

STEP 4: Layer your protein. Think hard boiled eggs, scrambled

“WHEN ALL’S SAID AND DONE, ALL PATHS LEAD TO THE SAME END. SO IT’S NOT SO MUCH WHICH ROAD YOU TAKE, AS HOW YOU TAKE IT.”

RT KEN HEA ODDS G A BRO OVERCOME THE SURVIVIN STORIES AND SHARE THEIR

S E DATE NTIN VDAY 20 VALE SWEETIE THIS TO TAKE YOUR WHERE

4 LOCALS

GIVE YOUR BUSINESS THE RESULTS IT DESERVES!

209.833.9989 / SALES@SJMAG.COM

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