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BEST OF WALNUT CREEK 2019 This year we’re celebrating the 10th anniversary of our Best of W.C. Reader’s Choice Awards. A special thanks to everyone who participated in our online voting and weighed in on your local favorites. Our business community is grateful! Now it’s time for you to find out who won in categories ranging from fashion to food to fitness.
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IN THIS ISSUE
BEST OF 2019
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11 TALK OF THE TOWN
50 LITTLE ITALY
City officials weigh in on traffic, development, and downtown vacancies. Plus, the latest retail and restaurant news.
Da Vinci would agree: Walnut Creek may well be at the center of the Italian cuisine universe.
26 GIVING BACK Meet a group of amazing individuals who are making a big difference in East Bay communities.
THE HOUSING 30 CRISIS 31
A complicated path to understanding how community resistance, rising costs, regulatory hurdles, and developer impact fees led to a lack of affordable housing in the Bay Area.
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53 WHERE WHEN Get your fall culture fix with our curated guide to Bay Area art exhibits, concerts, dance shows, festivals, theater, and much more.
59 DINING GUIDE The top spots to eat and drink in Walnut Creek and neighboring cities.
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(925) 932-2242 13HAIRSALON.COM FREE PARKING ONSITE best of 2019 / walnut creek
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BEST OF 2019 PUBLISHER Pam Becker Kessler EDITOR Lauren Kessler ART DIRECTOR Carrie Wallahan WEBSITE Cale Finta PHOTOGRAPHY Rachel Capil Jessica Freels Tiffany Fong Sarah Grunder Scott Hein Josh Isaacs Kyle Luman CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Deborah Burstyn Linda Childers Lou Fancher Sophie Johnson Kathryn McCarty Fran Miller Alison Negrin Peggy Spear Rob Stankus OPERATIONS INTERN David Kessler KESSLER COMMUNICATIONS, INC. WALNUT CREEK MAGAZINE PO BOX 5550 WALNUT CREEK, CA 94596 (925)212-5146 Email: info@walnutcreekmagazine.com No print or online material from Walnut Creek Magazine may be reproduced without written consent. WALNUTCREEKMAGAZINE.COM
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FROM THE PUBLISHER
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Welcome to the Best of 2019! A shout out to all of our readers who took the time to vote online and celebrate our local business community. It’s a treasure trove of fabulous places to eat, shop, and play—from flowers and pizza to facials and Asian food. I am grateful to our team of writers, photographers, designers, and editors who helped make this, and every issue of Walnut Creek Magazine, happen.
THE HEALTH & BEAUTY ISSUE TOP TRENDS 2020 WELLNESS RETREATS FITNESS & NUTRITION FADS REAL ESTATE PREDICTIONS AND MORE…
While we are reveling, let’s not forget about the joy of giving back. It’s a mission and purpose all year long, and I’m proud to shine a light on a group of individuals whose passion for helping others is not only contagious but making a difference across the East Bay. Choosing a way to describe the changes to our suburban/urban environment over the last decade is profound, but one thing is certain, more change lies ahead. We tackle a few of the city’s biggest challenges in Talk of the Town—traffic, downtown vacancies, and affordable housing—with the hope our reporting will spark conversation and civic engagement. If you want to have a voice in the future of Walnut Creek, please get involved, even if that means simply showing up and speaking out at monthly commission and city council meetings. Every city has its shortcomings and I am reminded how lucky we are to live and work in beautiful Walnut Creek every time I return from a getaway. With that in mind, thank you to all our readers, followers, and advertisers for your partnership and collaboration over the past decade. Wishing you a festive holiday season and a happy new year!
CONTACT US: publisher@walnutcreekmagazine.com
Cheers to 2020!
OR (925) 212-5146
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FOR OUR LATEST MEDIA KIT AND AD RATES: GO TO WALNUTCREEKMAGAZINE.COM
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Pam Becker Kessler publisher@walnutcreekmagazine.com
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talk
OF THE TOWN
HAPPENINGS | ANNOUNCEMENTS | THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT
WE WELL ALL BE By MCXT
Civic Park Mural
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A KALEIDOSCOPE OF COLOR
ay Area artists Monica Canilao and Xara Thustra (MCXT), whose edgy work has received international acclaim for transforming public spaces, elevated Walnut Creek’s streetscape with a brilliant mural on the western wall of the Civic Park Community Center. Complex and abstract, the eye-popping 7 x 35-foot artwork, We Well All Be, was painted over the course of two days from a palette of 90 handmixed custom colors. The commission is the second public artwork in the Bedford Gallery’s newly minted mural program expanding across the city. bedfordgallery.org ➤ best of 2019 / walnut creek
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talk For the first time in over a decade, a new hotel will swing open its N. California Boulevard doors, expanding Walnut Creek’s hospitality market. The 135 all-suite Residence Inn by Marriott features an indoor swimming pool and rooms equipped with kitchenettes, workstations, and private bedrooms. It’s a nice spot for business travelers, people relocating, or locals who need a little break. Hilton Garden Inn has delayed construction of its fourstory, 124-room hotel on the 2.6-acre former Corp Yard adjacent to Interstate 680. The project requires soil mediation from the State Water Quality Control Board before Tharaldson Hospitality can begin digging.
HOTEL RISING
GET READY FOR FRESH LODGING
Doing nothing may be our most important form of resistance. Best-selling Oakland author Jenny Odell describes in her book, How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy (Melville House, 2019) how nothing is harder to do these days, than nothing, in a world where value is determined by 24/7 productivity. In it, she offers ways to give your mind time and space to rest.
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Bay Club announced plans to rebrand its Renaissance Walnut Creek Hotel from a Marriott into a Westin next year. It’s the fitness corporation’s first foray in the hospitality market.
Center Stage
Pocket Park
Lesher Center for the Arts is converting its spacious outdoor plaza into a community gathering place, pumping up the downtown entertainment scene. Five years in the making, the public/private partnership between the City, Diablo Regional Arts Association, and Rudney Associates will provide a venue to host everything from movie nights and concerts to festivals and theater previews.
WC is home to its share of massive parks—Heather Farm, for example, encompasses 102-acres—but it’s the city’s new downtown hangouts that pack a whole lot of personality into a small space. At Main and Cypress, a new mini park is in the works. Funded by Walnut Creek Downtown, the community gathering spot will be furnished in early 2020.
LOOK FOR A NEW PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT SPACE ON LOCUST & CIVIC NEXT SUMMER
MAIN STREET GETS A NEW MEETING PLACE
Steps Away from World-Class Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment
WALNUT CREEK'S PREMIER ACTIVE SENIOR COMMUNITY
Theatre Excursions Day Trips Art, Technology and History Classes Special Events Galore We do it all!
Farm to Table Cuisine at Newton's Restaurant New State of the Art On-Site Cinema Outdoor Aquatics Center New Fitness Facility
Call for a Tour and Complimentary Dinner. Experience the ‘Art of Living’ with The Heritage Downtown’s Resident Artist, Trenton Gregory.
(925) 943-7427 1785 Shuey Avenue l Walnut Creek, CA 94596 l theheritagedowntown.com best of 2019 / walnut creek 13
talk
SCORE! What's In Store
OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS WORTH KNOWING ABOUT Popular eyewear brand Warby Parker—known for its affordable frames and charitable donations to developing countries —is opening a Mt. Diablo boutique next to Patioworld. Style and comfort are on display at Shoes on Solano, a new Main Street shop stocked with a chic selection of women’s shoes, boots, and bags. Iconic fashion furrier Maximillian signed a short-term lease and opened in the former Z Gallerie space.
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Broadway Plaza is rumored to have a new tenant for its vacant Stanford’s building—Canadian brand Joey Restaurants. Ahi tuna salad, sushi cones, and lobster grilled cheese are expected to star on the menu. Brioche de Paris is dishing up delicate French pastries from their new Locust Street café. Bierhaus, a new German restaurant, has opened in the former Lark Creek space. Prost! Women’s clothier Talbot’s is vacating its prominent Olympic and Main corner and moving down the block to the soon-to-close Uniqulo store. Adding to the downtown vacancy dilemma, Destination Maternity is also reported to be closing its Walnut Creek doors. Prominent local commercial real estate experts point to a silver lining—downtown rents should start coming down.
A NEW SOCCER TRAINING FACILITY AND FUTURE STADIUM TO MATCH. When Hall Equities Group unveils its hi-tech elite soccer training center COPA, at Shadelands Business Park in January, it will be the first of its kind in the region. A passion project of CEO Mark Hall, the indoor soccer center is one of seven tenants at the new SportsMall, a 250,000-squarefoot megaplex for youth sports. “This is definitely a different type of sports center,” says Hall. “We’ve designed a sports facility where the focus is on skills development.” Kicking the ball further down the road, Hall has his eye on another ambitious goal, the Concord Transit Center, a massive facility equipped with a soccer stadium for 18,000 fans, a convention center, hotels, and apartments. Hall, who owns two United Soccer League teams, is working with the City of Concord on the project. “Soccer is the biggest sport in the world,” says Hall. “We see an opportunity to fill a professional sports void in the East Bay created from the loss of the Oakland Raiders and the Golden State Warriors. A wellconceived stadium complex can be a game-changing economic generator.” –Fran Miller
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talk/city revealed
A Sea of Change IS REZONING THE BEST WAY TO RESTORE VITALITY DOWNTOWN?
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or decades, Walnut Creek’s traditional downtown—the area north of Mt. Diablo— has been home to an interesting mix of independently-owned shops and restaurants able to pay the area’s sky-high rents. Now, with sales shifting online and concerns mounting over limited parking and shrinking foot traffic, the edges are starting to fray, and empty storefronts are becoming more abundant. To combat these trends, Walnut Creek Downtown and the City are investing in community gathering spaces and out-
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door seating areas, as well as special events to draw people back. “The retail environment is changing swiftly,” said city Economic Development Director Jessica Cole, before her November departure from the City of Walnut Creek. “Vacancy continues to be a top focus. We’re working to create opportunities for pop-up retail in some of the empty storefronts and create experiences you can’t get online. The good news is that year-over-year data shows sales tax revenue is up 8%, restaurant revenue is up 3%, and retail is up .5%. Walnut Creek remains a thriving sales hub for the county.” ➤
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talk
SCRIPTWORKS STORY #73
Amidst the devastation of the Camp Fire, we sprang into action. When Dr. Stacey Holz, Veterinarian, called during the 2018 Camp Fire, she had a very special request. While dogs can be leashed and led to safety during a fire, cats tend to hide. In the town of Paradise, where the fire moved so quickly, there were badly burned feline survivors. Stacey asked us to help create a custom burn gel with Manuka Honey, a special honey from New Zealand known for its healing properties. Our pharmacists crafted the formula, and within 24 hours of the call, Dr. Holz’s team picked it up. The gel worked beautifully. Thank you for making that call, Dr. Holz. We love solving problems with customized medicine.
“Walnut Creek’s downtown leasing market is in a transition,” says John Cumbelich, a regional commercial real estate broker and CEO at Cumbelich & Associates. Cumbelich points to several high-profile spaces previously occupied by H&M, Apple, Panera Bread, and Chico’s that remain vacant, some for over two years. He says Forever 21, Destination Maternity, and Uniqlo are the next to go which is sparking concern about future trends. “The stability of the national economy over the upcoming quarters, and a possible slowdown, will have a profound impact on the next significant move in occupancy rates and rent levels,” Cumbelich says. “One explanation for the inventory glut is the Broadway Plaza expansion project. When the city approved it, did they consider that one consequence might be that not enough demand exists to absorb hundreds of thousands of new retail square feet? The shopping center’s expansion shifted the focus south of Mt. Diablo and took several tenants along with it. A consequence is retail space flooded the historic downtown market.” The good news, explains Cumbelich, is that rents are plummeting. “This presents a great opportunity for a user to come in and secure a property at unusually low rates. One phenomenal way to deal with all the vacancies would be to allow financial services, dentists, chiropractors, and other service sectors to absorb some of the space.” There’s continued tension in the city over the conversion of retail space to office space and other uses. Walnut Creek’s General Plan specifies what types of businesses can open in designated areas of the city with strict zoning rules to protect the retail environment.
“Our goal is to keep the downtown pedestrian-friendly and vibrant with a mix of businesses and activities. It’s all about zoning balance,” says City Manager Dan Buckshi. “People are coming here for the experience.” Clearly the market will continue to cope with the oversupply of space for the foreseeable future. Work is expected to begin in late 2020 on the city’s General Plan 2025—a blueprint for future development expected to rezone areas of the downtown, raise height and density limits, and focus on increasing the housing supply. –PK
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EVENT SCENE
CELEBRATE JOHN MUIR HEALTH 2019 GALA CONCORD JET CENTER PHOTOGRAPHY BY RACHEL CAPIL
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1. Mistress of Ceremonies, Ann Notarangelo 2. Grateful patient David Lencioni & Richard Long, M.D. 3. Steve & Debra Gonsalves, Maureen & Cal Knight 4. Sil & Patty Garaventa, Alessandra Magnani, Robert Garaventa 5. Vita Sechrest, Lisa Hofmann-Morgan, Alexie Shurtz, Gabriella Seeno 6. Kate Chynoweth, Hartwell Lin, M.D., David Griffith, M.D., Becky Forbes
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celebrate john muir health
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2 At the Wizard of Oz themed event, the John Muir Health Foundation raised $3.3 million in support of John Muir Health’s Comprehensive Cancer Center.
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6 1. Brian and Melani Rivera 2. Auctioneer Greg Quirog 3. Val Nagel, Liz Mechelke, Michael Monaldo, Kevin Mechelke 4. Phoebe Sauter, Kaitlyn Elvidge, Charles & George Sauter 5. On the dance floor 6. Gala Co-Chairs Maureen Knight & Margie Murphy
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talk/city revealed
CUT THROUGH CULTURE TRAFFIC APPS HAVE TURNED NEIGHBORHOODS INTO” SHORTCUTS” IN THE NAME OF CONVENIENCE, CAN ANYONE MAKE THEM STOP?
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avigation apps offer frustrated drivers a way to beat the traffic on Interstate 680 and Highway 4 by routing them through suburban side streets, often at unsafe speeds, transforming peaceful Walnut Creek backroads into gridlock.
The Bay Area went wild over Waze when it first hit smartphones in 2011. It was the go-to cut through traffic app that your kids insisted was the best alternative to Google Maps. It grabbed commuters looking for faster routes, even if it meant speeding through residential neighborhoods and triggering traffic nightmares.
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Look no further than the snake of cars backed up on Homestead Avenue (almost to Sierra Drive) during the evening commute to understand how cut through culture wreaks havoc on local streets. It’s bumper to bumper dozens of cars deep, frustrating residents who live on the congested route and making it almost impossible to run a quick errand and return home. Due to the right turn restrictions onto Ygnacio Valley Road, Waze has reportedly taken the route off its app, yet the back-ups remain. For commuters who ignore the “no right turn” flashing light, between 4:00-6:30pm, ➤
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city revealed a word of warning, the Walnut Creek Police Department is often nearby writing hefty right turn violation tickets. According to Traffic Engineer Smadar Boardman, the city has limited options. “These are public streets and the city cannot restrict access, but if people are cutting through and speeding, that’s a problem we want to solve.” Boardman and her team are working on software solutions to Walnut Creeks’ traffic jams, but that won’t include eliminating the right turn restrictions from Walnut and Homestead or adding lanes to Ygnacio Valley Road. Instead they’re creating a Local Roadway Safety Plan and traffic signal synchronization to change the light timing at busy intersections, like the Broadway and Olympic Boulevard exits off I-680N, popular pop-off spots for commuters attempting to circumvent freeway traffic.
“These are public streets and the city cannot restrict access, but if people are cutting through and speeding, that’s a problem we want to solve.”
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Berkeley has a long and successful history of calming traffic through its neighborhood streets. Since 1975 the city has been using speed humps and street barriers (diverters) as well as traffic circles, curb extensions, chicanes, and textured paving to deter short-cuts. Others like the City of Fremont, have issued warnings to freeway drivers exiting onto city streets to expect long delays at traffic lights.
The days of simply pouring concrete and widening roads are over. As one traffic engineer explains, there’s no magic bullet to fix traffic flow and prevent short cuts. Walnut Creek sees some 120,000 cars pass through its two main east-west arteries, Treat Boulevard and Ygnacio Valley Road, each day. To keep the cars moving, the city relies on its Intelligent Transportation System, a grid of computers that orchestrates 100 traffic signals in and around Walnut Creek. The synchronized lights can adapt to changing demand in real time to maximize traffic flow and reduce backups. With cities across the Bay Area becoming more and more congested (the proliferation of ridesharing services like Uber are contributing to the problem), it’s clear that one approach to traffic mitigation won’t work. Finding solutions to Walnut Creek's traffic and congestion problems will require flexibility, collaboration, and citizen engagement.
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I D F F A ERENC G N I K E MA
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MEET AN AMAZING GROUP OF INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT HELPING OTHERS BY ROBERT STANKUS
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA FREELS
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ADVOCATING FOR HOUSING DONNA COLUMBO TAKES A BOW
ision, perseverance, and compassion drive Donna Colombo to exceed even her own expectations. Inspired by her mother’s last words, “go make memories,” Colombo left her successful corporate career, and went to work for Trinity Center, a place where people in need can access a broad spectrum of services. “We believe everyone has a right to an abundant life and housing is our first goal,” says Columbo. Serving as Executive Director since 2012, Colombo’s advocacy has elevated community awareness about homelessness and inspired support through donations, volunteerism, and grants. Serving between 70-80 individuals each day, Trinity Center offers basic safety net services— food, clothing, showers, laundry facilities, mail delivery, telephone service, and a safe place to rest. “We get more and more people every day who need our
services. It’s not because we’re here, it’s because people need us,” says Columbo. Local church groups, White Pony Express, Loaves & Fishes and other organizations support Trinity’s work. “I’m a firm believer the best way to get things done is to partner and to collaborate,” she says. A Walnut Creek resident for over 35 years, Colombo understands that homelessness is tied to economic vitality, housing, mental health, and public safety. In partnership with the WCPD, she created the Homeless Task Force in 2013, bringing key city partners together to find effective solutions for homelessness. As Bay Area rents soar, Colombo points to the affordable housing crisis as the primary reason for the increasing numbers of people without a home. “We’re not talking about criminals, it’s not a crime to be homeless. Our members come to us from all walks of life. Many have kids and grandkids.”
After seven years of relentless perseverance, Colombo’s innovative 44-unit affordable housing project, St. Paul’s Commons on Trinity Avenue, a partnership with St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and Resources for Community Development, is on target to open in late January with 14 apartments set aside for the homeless and people with special needs. She’s proud that eight Trinity Center members have qualified for housing at the new project. “We need to work together so projects like this one happen all over the Bay Area,” she says. With retirement on the horizon in February, Columbo has ambitious plans to continue working on ways to build more affordable housing in Contra Costa County. “I’m pleased with what we have been able to do, there’s more support for what we do than ever before.”
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giving back
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SHARING THE WEALTH
FEEDING PEOPLE IN NEED NOURISHES MARY BROOK'S SPIRIT
hen Mary Brooks volunteered five years ago as a “runner” for White Pony Express—redistributing surplus bread from Morucci’s deli to the Bay Area Rescue Mission and Monument Crisis Center—she never expected to one day be running the place. Contributing time and energy to help the community has always been a personal priority for Mary. It’s also consistent with her belief that the giver always receives more. She thinks most people want to give, they’re just not always sure how and where to do it. “You just have to put it at the top of your to-do list,” Mary explains. That organized, results-focused, business-like approach is just what you would expect from a successful, 35-year, financial services professional. Starting in 1983 as a financial consultant with Merrill Lynch in Walnut Creek,
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Mary established her own group, Invera Wealth Management of Raymond James in 2009, where today she serves as managing director. Over the years she’s shared her business acumen, with a variety of civic, philanthropic and leadership organizations, served on countless boards, and recently founded M2-One to elevate women into leadership roles. But it’s White Pony Express that really feeds her spirit. Founded in 2013 by Dr. Carol Weyland to address the incongruity of widespread hunger in an area of such abundance, White Pony Express, and its legion of dedicated volunteers, collect surplus food from local grocers and restaurants then distribute it to organizations that serve those in need. In 2014, White Pony General Store opened to add free clothing, toys and books to the things given away. Since then, over 500,000 free
items have gone to people in need. And during the past six years, White Pony’s Food Rescue program has delivered over 5,000 pounds of fresh, nutritious food every day to area shelters or a staggering 10 million pounds to about 80,000 people. Mary took on this massive distribution undertaking when she stepped up as interim director in 2018. She likes to say her “organized mind” has helped the non-profit to continue to grow. Currently leading the search for her replacement, so she can return to her financial practice and role as a “worker bee,” Mary says, “I am in awe every day of the difference White Pony Express makes in the lives of all the donors, recipients, volunteers, and staff. It really is all of us taking care of all of us.”
giving back
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DOING WELL BY DOING GOOD SOCIAL ACTION IS WOVEN IN THIS COUPLE'S DNA
obert Jackson and Mandana Nejad share a devotion to health and fitness that extends far beyond the walls of their health club, Forma Gym. Business and community, they insist, go hand in hand, and they’ve found both purpose and success in keeping that philosophy front and center. Forma Gym started out as a small training studio before the Jacksons purchased the former Walnut Creek Sports and Fitness in 2012. “With a lot of hard work and a little bit of luck,” Robert recalls, we transformed the gym into a preeminent community fitness facility.” That same year, the couple took over sponsorship of Turkey Trot—an event that has raised over $628,000 for Walnut Creek public schools and the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano counties. Proceeds from
the race also help fund Forma’s annual donation of 500 Thanksgiving meals for hungry families in Oakland. For the Jacksons, social action, like their business acumen, seems woven into their DNA. When asked why they do it all, they instinctively look at each other and simultaneously answer, “Why not?” They launched the Forma Kids Foundation in 2013 with the mission to “improve the health and wellness of children in our community and our world, and to instill in them the values of physical activity, healthy nutrition habits, and giving back.” Parents to children ages eight and four, the Jackson's strive to raise their sons as engaged, kind, and generous citizens.
Never resting on their laurels, two years ago Robert founded Fitness BI, an innovative software application dashboard that provides health clubs with data-driven insights to better manage operations. He also hopes to generate awareness and increase sponsorship for the rehabilitation of paralysis victims at RISE, the Paralysis Recovery Center at Forma Gym. Mandana, now responsible for the gym’s day-to-day operations, recently brought on a new COO, allowing her to focus on the Foundation. She also hopes to expand the Turkey Trot and bring a similar event to Forma Gym Santana Row. And she has her eye on new ways to support the needs of children in the foster care system. Together they are a dynamic duo for good.
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talk/housing
The Housing Crisis
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IN THE BAY AREA THE TERM “AFFORDABLE HOUSING” IS A CONTRADICTION IN TERMS BY PAM KESSLER
he more it costs to build residential projects, the fewer you get. And the fewer that are built, the more expensive they are to buy or rent. Eventually, this leads to a housing crisis. Some of the reasons for how we got here are complicated, others are unmistakable— rising material, land, and labor costs. Add to these regulatory hurdles and developer impact fees—close to three times the national average in California—and it adds up to San Francisco being the second most expensive place to build in the world.
WHAT CAUSED IT? Tech companies are widely blamed for causing the housing crisis with an avalanche of Bay Area IPO’s that created thousands of new millionaires, flush in cash and ready to spend it, ultimately driving up home values and rents. However, policy experts say that it’s rooted in decades of resistance by local communities to build new housing. “Over the past six years, Bay Area rents have skyrocketed so high, two people working full-time minimum wage jobs cannot afford hous-
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ing in the nine-county Bay Area," says Margot Ernst, housing program manager for the City of Walnut Creek. “Beginning in 2007, we were not permitting enough housing to be built in the state to meet the projected need. This trend continued for several years, hitting crisis mode in 2015 as the population and job market continued to grow, but housing inventory did not keep up with the demand. It continues to unfold today—1.5 million more affordable rental homes are needed in California to meet the current demand.”
BUILDING MORE HOUSING While constructing more housing seems like an easy solution, multiple layers of lengthy government reviews, local growth controls, community resistance, land shortage, and CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) inhibit the process and contribute to the high price of rental development. As it stands, the housing situation is getting worse, with homeless counts rising in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Oakland, despite efforts to ease it. The pace of California's development is slowing, with some developers suspending ➤
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talk/housing As demand in the Bay Area continues to outpace new supply, rents are forecast to rise by 2.2% in the coming year. “In order to afford housing in Walnut Creek, a minimum wage earner must make $32.68 per hour, which at current rates equates to a 148-hour work week,” Ernst explains. In order to pay rent, middle-income earners, like teachers and police officers, are living with roommates while others are working full-time jobs, taking on multiple part-time jobs, eliminating doctor and dental visits, and forgoing eating out or purchasing non-essentials. “Senior citizens are the most severely rent-burdened,” says Ernst. “Poverty in this population is growing fastest in the East Bay suburbs as middle-income renters compete with seniors for housing. Currently, 56.8% of seniors are spending more than 50% of their income on rent.”
projects because costs are so high that even multimillion-dollar condos and $4,000-a-month one-bedrooms won’t yield a profit. Construction of a single subsidized unit of affordable housing in California is estimated at $450,000—a figure that jumps to $650,000 in Walnut Creek.
Another factor contributing to the housing dilemma, she says, is a labor shortage. “Since 2005, there has been a 45% decrease in the number of construction workers under the age of 25. In 2003, there were 400K people employed in construction jobs, in 2016 that number dropped to 300k."
Despite surging demand, cities across the state continue to fight against state-mandated housing development citing infrastructure constraints and increased congestion. “Housing is fundamental to a good quality of life and a strong local economy. People need places to live,” says Mayor Cindy Silva. “Walnut Creek is growing but at a very slow pace. Over the last 20 years, our growth has averaged about 0.5% per year or 325-350 people. To minimize local impacts, through the General Plan process, the community made an informed decision to focus new housing near the downtown and sustain Walnut Creek's 2,700-acres of open space and protect the character of single-family neighborhoods.” In October, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 330, dubbed the “Housing Crisis Act of 2019” which takes effect January 1, 2020. Aimed at boosting home building in California, the bill caps fees, slashes the time it takes to get new developments approved, forbids density reductions, and bans local governments from imposing population and housing caps. “The state requires more housing to be built,” says City Manager Dan Buckshi. “The number of units built in Walnut Creek will be going up perhaps as much as 100%.”
RENTS AND WAGES According to the New York Times, the Bay Area has added 676,000 jobs over the past eight years, but only 176,000 additional housing units, a ratio far from the 1.5 jobs per housing unit that planners consider healthy. “San Francisco remains the most expensive county to reside in,” says Ernst, “with average one-bedroom rents at $3,626 per month. In Dublin, renters are paying $2700 a month for a one-bedroom, and in Walnut Creek it’s closer to $2500.”
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Currently, Walnut Creek has about 500 units of affordable housing in its portfolio. New developments like the 135-unit NOMA project on the former Fuddrucker’s site will add 11 affordable housing units, while St. Paul’s Commons on Trinity will add 44 units—a mere drop in the bucket to meet the rising demand. Based on current state AMI levels, a single person earning $43,000 or less in annual income or a family of four earning combined annual income of $61,000 or less qualify for affordable housing in Walnut Creek. This translates to rent at $1000$1500 per month as opposed to $2300-$3000 per month for studio, one- and two-bedroom market-rate units. Cities across the state are facing the hard reality that making sacrifices—upzoning, raising height limits, increasing density— are the only paths forward to housing their growing populations. Sources: Yardi Matrix, CoStar, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, California Association of Realtors, San Francisco Business Times, Mercury News
W
BO BY THE WALNUT CREEK MAGAZINE TEAM
WC BEST OF WC
2019
OUR ANNUAL READER’S CHOICE AWARDS CELEBRATES THE THINGS YOU LOVE ABOUT WALNUT CREEK ➨
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Shop
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BEST OF
2019
SHOP
Florist Florali was one of the first East Bay florists to reinterpret the bouquet as sculpture. Mother and son team Darwin Harrison and Susan Donley, work with flowers—plus virtually everything that grows—with fearless abandon, adding interesting natural elements to their chic compositions. Aside from arranging blooms, they also create stunning centerpieces from orchids and succulents. florali.com (Runner-up: Flower Bowl)
Eyewear Choosing a new pair of glasses is second only to shopping for jeans. One glance in the mirror is hardly enough time to determine whether you’ll like this new accessory on your face. Since 1979, when Site for Sore Eyes first opened in Berkeley, it has built a solid reputation for delivering professional eye exams and sourcing quality designer eyewear—Tom Ford, Kate Spade, Tory Burch, and Nicole Miller to name a few. A 30-day exchange policy lets you live with your new look and exchange them if you’re not happy. siteforsoreeyes.com (Runner-up: Broadway Eyeworks)
Athletic Wear This athletic wear powerhouse knows there’s more to fitness than sun salutations, which is why Lululemon excels at outfitting workout junkies of all kinds. Cyclists, tennis aces, and kickboxers alike love the consummately flattering, comfortable, and stylish selection of colorful tanks, jackets, cropped pants, and shorts durable enough to withstand even the most strenuous exercise. lululemon.com (Runner-up: Athleta)
Boutique Tucked away on the Duncan Arcade paseo, Norf London is easy to slip into during lunch to browse the racks for trendy tops, jackets, and jeans. Owner Debbie Rogers knows how to merchandise—she’s been in the retail game for 35 years— building a loyal clientele and reputation for fun, affordable fashion. 1341 N. Main Street (Runner-up: Vici)
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SHOP Evening Wear Sip a cocktail while your stylist takes 26 precise body measurements and then helps you choose everything from the buttons and fabric lining right down to the Gucci loafers. Anyone can score here. Whether it’s On Broadway at the Lesher Center, or a weekend in Vegas, nothing says party like the dazzling evening wear at Nordstrom. nordstrom.com (Runner-up: Neiman Marcus)
Auto Dealer Customers come from near and far for the service and selection at MercedesBenz of Walnut Creek. With one of the Bay Area’s largest inventories of the
Alterations luxury German brand, this Parkside Drive dealership is equipped to put you in a custom E-class in just about any configuration you want. mbofwalnutcreek.com (Runner-up: Toyota WC)
Arachne in Greek mythology was such a skilled weaver that jealous Athena transformed into a spider. At this Newell Avenue atelier, the only things being transformed are ill-fitting new clothes and beloved old ones into flattering well-tailored fits. For decades, residents and retailers have relied on Arachne’s Thimble for impeccable work on men’s and women’s wear. 1487 Newell Avenue (Runner-up: Lusona Alterations)
Shoe Repair Laces, luggage, handbag buckles, and shredded heals, they do it all here. Seasoned at high-end designer merchandise, A-1 Shoe & Luggage Repair is the go-to for shoes, bags, buckles and so much more. Attention to detail and expert craftsmanship have customers praising this superior shoe salvage operation year after year. 1399 N. Main Street
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Pet Supplies Raw frozen food, fish food, cat food, rabbit food, plus all the gear you need to keep your beast in luxury, from rhinestone collars to skunk-odor shampoo, are at Pet Food Express. A large selection of beds, travel cages, and toys, as well as an in-store wellness center for vaccinations, nail trims, and physical exams. Whether it’s by only offering high quality products or supporting animal-related charities, Pet Food Express is winning over customers. petfood.express (Runner-up: Petco)
Thrift / Consignment Shop Pre-owned couture and other high-end designer goods fill the racks at Labels Luxury Consignment, the crème-dela-crème of consignment shops in the WC. Glam suits, furs, cocktail frocks, and formal gowns along with chic jeans, sweaters, coats, shoes and purses by designers like Christian Louboutin, Coach, Marc Jacobs, Hermes, and Louis Vuitton are among the surprising finds here. labelsluxury.com (Runner-up: Threads)
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Pet Grooming
Kitchen Goods
When Muffie is having a bad-hair day and Felix needs a pedicure, send them off to the bustling salon at Petco for a few hours of pampering. Walnut Creek pets say it's the best. A top team of groomers shampoo, clip, trim, brush, and blow-dry beauties all day long. Four-legged family members emerge clean and sweet-smelling. Pro tip: download the smartphone app for discounts. petco.com (Runner-up: Petsmart)
To make a decent soufflé or terrine, you need the proper gadgetry. Look no further than Sur La Table, for tools, pots, muffin tins, and more by delicious brands like Le Creuset, Miyabi, and Staub. Pressure cookers, pasta machines, potholders, plates—everything you might need in the kitchen can be found at this kitchen goods paradise. surlatable.com (Runner-up: Williams Sonoma)
Eat
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BEST OF
2019
EAT Restaurant
& BEST SMALL PLATES
From the moment Va de Vi Bistro opened in 2004, it was an immediate winner. Its sophisticated vibe, eclectic small plates, and exceptional wine list put the restaurant, and Walnut Creek, on the Bay Area’s culinary map. Shareable small plates dazzle with everything from braised short ribs to truffle ricotta gnocchi to Alaskan black cod, served against the backdrop of a lively indoor and outdoor atmosphere. For intimate conversations and champagne flights, Va de Vi exemplifies everything we’ve come to love about upscale dining. vadevi.com (Runner-up: Teleferic Barcelona)
Breakfast Poached eggs cover corned beef sweet potato hash, delicious pancakes are stacked piping hot, and a chicken ‘south of the border’ comes smothered in avocado and black beans. The breakfast menu at Sunrise Bistro is so popular, owners Joe Stein and Chef Ty Pearce now serve it all day, including cult-favorites like the breakfast burrito stuffed with fluffy eggs, crispy bacon, and plenty of cheese. Everything is prepared fresh, without fructose corn syrup or greasy oil, but don’t fret, the food’s healthiness doesn’t compromise its delicious taste. sunrisebistrocatering.com (Runner-up: Katy’s Kreek.)
Seafood
& BEST DATE SPOT
It’s impossible to go wrong with the seafood at Chef Kevin Weinberg and Ellen McCarty’s award-winning Walnut Creek Yacht Club. The menu is perfection, the wine list is stellar, and the ambiance is buoyant. After nearly two decades, it remains a local seafood giant satisfying appetites with steaming bowls of cioppino and New England clam chowder, exceptionally fresh fish, an oyster bar, and decadent Dungeness crab and lobster feeds. Whether it’s an anniversary or date night, this fish house reels in the accolades year after year. wcyc.net (Runner-up Scott’s Seafood)
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EAT Burger WINNER: TEN YEARS IN A ROW When Hilda Von Hamburger invented the hamburger in 1904 as a cure for gout, she could not have imagined the variety of spinoffs her contribution to American culinary culture would inspire. In the wonderland of burgers, Walnut Creek Magazine readers have crowned The Counter Burger king for ten consecutive years in a row. This booming bistro’s “create your own” burger menu, offers diners thousands of ways to combine meat and cheese on a bun and garnish it with everything conceivable. Yum! thecounterburger.com (Runner-up: Broderick)
Tacos
Kid’s Menu
This newbie garners praise for dishing up a varied slate of Mexican three-bite delights from its casual, family-owned cantina. Locals are lining up at Tacos Walnut Creek for flavorful corn tortillas smothered in grilled meats, onions, cilantro, pineapple, and chipotle salsa. Taco plates are rounded out with rice and beans. tacoswalnutcreek.com (Runner-up: Capullo Cocina)
Heritage Eats draws Broadway Plaza crowds for its flavorful, global-fusion food. An adventurous kids’ menu spans the globe with tiki rice bowls, cheese quesadillas, and pork tacos. Open for lunch and dinner, kids (12U) eat free on Monday nights after 4 pm. heritageeats.com (Runner-up: Gott’s Roadside)
Coffee Born in Berkeley just over 50 years ago, Peet’s Coffee launched a caffeine-fueled Bay Area revolution. Considered the founder of the American gourmet coffee movement, Peet’s transformed the simple cup-of-coffee experience into a revelation. Hand-roasted beans from around the world are freshly ground, brewed, and served by skillful baristas. peets.com (Runner-up: Coffee Shop)
Sushi Chefs at Sasa cut ultra-fresh fish with the utmost speed, ensuring each sushi creation is served at the ideal texture and temperature. A parade of nigiri is paced to keep your taste buds engaged: maguro melts like butter, piri-kara hotate is finished with spice, grilled unagi brushed with velvety nikiri shoyu. Occupying the century-old building on Main Street that once housed Lawrence's Meat Market, the atmosphere is almost as striking as the food. sasawc.com (Runner-up: Toyo Sushi)
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EAT Sandwich From their bustling Saranap cafe, Morucci’s legendary deli sandwiches beat out the competition. Around for decades, the deli team here moves with care and speed to assemble sandwiches from the 22-item menu. The 6 ¾ is stacked on toasted ciabatta bread with thick slices of roasted turkey breast, fresh mozzarella, tomato, lettuce and pesto sauce. The hot pastrami rivals any New York deli—juicy, flavorful, and just greasy enough to slide down. Grab a table on the patio and savor every bite. 1218 Boulevard Way (Runner Up: Genova)
Salad This repeat winner just keeps getting better. Big, bold and abundant, Lettuce has mastered the art of the salad. Made fresh to order at the counter, showstoppers include the Napa— organic spring mix with field berries, rosemary chicken, and toasted walnuts tossed in honey balsamic vinaigrette and The Cobb—half an avocado, a fistful of blue cheese, and a whole lot of bacon piled on romaine. lettuce1.net (Runner-up: True Food Kitchen)
Ribs Ever since Sauced opened on Locust Street, it’s shaken up the
local meat game with marvelous brisket, and superb ribs. Dry rubbed pork spareribs are slow-cooked, then caramelized in house sauce. Sides include baked beans, coleslaw, and waffle fries. There are strong drinks and food-friendly beers at the bar, plus plenty of televisions to catch a game. saucedbbqandspirits.com (Runner-up: Bounty Hunter)
Grocery Store Whole Foods Market makes grocery shopping an adventure. Prepared foods lure from behind glass display cases and hot food bars simmer with seasonal cuisine. Pizza, burritos, sushi, and sandwiches are prepared to or-
der while leafy legumes, tabbouleh, artichokes, and golden beets are lunchtime utopia at the salad bar. At every corner and every aisle, there are tempting foods and products to put in your shopping cart. A gleaming food and natural products emporium, its value-driven 365 brand bolsters Whole Foods unbeatable status. wholefoodsmarket.com (Runner-up: Trader Joe’s)
Happy Hour 1515 Restaurant Lounge has upped the happy hour game with killer appetizers that go beyond sliders—black mussels, scampi, street tacos, fried calamari, oysters, buffalo wings, calzones. Available daily from 3:00-6:00pm, well drinks, beers, and wines are $4-$6, martinis and cosmos run $8, and bites are mostly under $10. (Runner-up: Walnut Creek Yacht Club)
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EAT Pizza World Pizza Champion Tony Gemignani brought Slice House to the East Bay in 2017 tossing hand-crafted, flavorful crust. A Food Network Gold Medal Winner, the Cal Italia is covered in mozzarella, gorgonzola, figs, and prosciutto. A slice of the Grandma is simple perfection with nothing more than mozzarella, creamy globs of ricotta, and tasty tomato sauce. New Yorkers might claim otherwise, but California has great pizza. slicehousewalnutcreek.com (Runner-up: Extreme Pizza)
Pasta At his iconic Italian restaurant, Montecatini, Chef Ermes Paulin has been delighting palates with his savory sauces and feathery pastas since 1989. House-made pillows of veal-stuffed tortellini are dressed with prosciutto and light cream sauce. Dreamy three-cheese ravioli are covered in fresh tomato sauce. Chef-made gnocchi come covered in Bolognese. Each plate designed to pair perfectly with the restaurant’s award-winning wine list. montecatinirestaurant.com. (Runner-up: Benvenuti)
Dessert If you thought hot gooey fresh baked cookies couldn’t get any better, we’ve got news for you. Stuff a scoop of creamy ice cream between a pair and
it’s pure magic. The Cal student favorite, Cream (Cookies Rule Everything Around Me) took Walnut Creek by storm when it opened on Main Street in 2014. Cookie and ice cream flavors offer endless opportunities to mix and match.creamnation.com (Runner-up: Love + Chocolate)
Bar There’s no better place to enjoy a cocktail than in the heart of the city at Rooftop. High above the hustle and bustle below, the mostly open-air bar/restaurant boasts sweeping views and crafty cocktails. A gin-based Wedding Punch is spiked with orange curaçao and green cardamom and a spicy El Techo is bolstered by mescal, jalapeno, and cilantro. Consider yourself lucky if you score a seat at the bar. rooftopwc.com (Runner-up: Mr. Lucky’s)
Asian Food Walnut Creek is filled with magnificent Asian cooking. Entire coalitions of restaurants specialize in Dan Dan noodles and fried chicken cubes in sauces. At Dragon Pond, Hunan and Mandarin delicacies are reinvented— hot and sour soup is thick with ribbons of whisked-in eggs, General Tsao’s chicken is spiced to order on a bed of crisp, fresh broccoli. Mango chicken, honey walnut prawns, and duck chow mein also star on the restaurant’s winning menu. dragonspond.com (Runner-up: Kacha Thai)
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BEST OF
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DO
Health Club At Forma Gym, it’s all about community. Founder and CEO Robert Jackson’s members are loyal not only to the club, but to each other. It’s a stylish gym that manages to feel homey. It’s a big gym that manages to feel intimate and welcoming. There are outdoor and indoor workout spaces, a pool with cabanas, personal trainers, and highoctane fitness classes—barre, cycling, tai chi, Pilates, yoga, boot camp, TRX suspension, and Zumba. The focus here is about spreading well-being. formagym.com (Runner-up: Renaissance Bay Club)
Massage Bonnie Waters opened her award-winning Changes Salon & Day Spa on Broadway and Lincoln in 1984. Since then, it has evolved into a local wellness and beauty institution. The inviting Aqua Terra Room offers a soothing space to reflect and relax near a 16-foot water wall before a highly trained massage therapist works healing magic with deep pressure and detoxifying oils to eliminate sore spots and balance your body, mind, and spirit. changessalon.com (Runner-up Woodhouse Day Spa)
Hair Salon
Facial
Curly hair, flat hair, long hair, and unruly hair that parts how it wants, the stylists at Beauty Lounge approach each cut as if it’s art in the making, while effortlessly executing spot-on color treatments. With salons on Main Street and Palos Verdes Mall, stylists here trained at some of the East Bay’s top shops where they learned how to deliver head turning hair. beautylounge925.com (Runner-up: Changes Salon & Day Spa)
The aestheticians at Encore Medspa know their business, and their business is your face. At this celebrated med-spa hard work, cutting edge technology, expert technique, and nourishing products lead to stunning results. With decades of experience, Encore eschews a custom approach to facial treatments tailored to each client’s unique challenges, from hormonal acne to anti-aging hydration. You’ll leave with a refreshing glow. encoremedspa.com (Runner-up: SkinSpirit)
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DO Barbershop Las Lomas grad Max Lober honed his hair cutting skills on fellow basketball teammates before working professionally in a salon. Then in 2018 he teamed up with Kevin Arrendondo and opened Hi-Definition Barbershop on Boulevard Way. After amassing a loyal following, they opened a second shop down the street with partner Adrian Geldres. Hi-Definition has quickly become a go-to for sharp cuts and hot shaves. highdefinitionbarbers.com (Runner up: Beauty Lounge Palos Verdes Mall)
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Yoga Studio
Mani-Pedi
Med Spa
Corepower has made hot yoga cool. This Main Street studio takes a serious work-out approach to yoga, so don’t expect to meditate. Classes leave you dripping, with rooms of varying temperatures for devotees who believe high degrees open and strengthen the body. Beginners get a cooler flow guided by empowering instructors in Vinyasa Yoga. For an extra-challenge, add free weights to your Yoga Sculpt workout. corepoweryoga.com (Runner-up: Yogaworks)
WC insiders have been singing praises for the mani-pedi’s at Changes Salon & Day Spa for decades. After 35 years in the beauty biz, the Changes team knows what you want. Your mani-pedi begins with a blissful foot soak, administered by technicians who wield a nail file and cuticle trimmer with exact precision. Salon connoisseurs will revel in the reclining chairs, heated blankets, and expert massages that come standard with each classic pedicure. changessalon.com (Runner-up: Beauty Lounge)
A licensed RN with decades of experience, Adrianne Gonzalez is the perfect battle partner in the war against aging. Gonzalez and her Encore Medspa team standout for expertise, safety, and finely tuned aesthetic finesse. One of the first medical spas to open in Northern California, Encore’s cutting-edge services range from injectable treatments to laser hair removal to micro needling, lip fillers, and chemical peels. With a less is more approach, subtle remedies leave you looking healthy and beautiful. encoremedspa.com (Runner-up: SkinSpirit)
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DO Kid’s Birthday Party Ahoy Matey! There’s a big pirate ship, a pint-sized climbing wall, and a bounty of colorful slides. Add swings and bridges for a fabulous birthday party surprise. A soft bouncy surface ensures happy landings and rainbow-hued canvas awnings protect kids—and their parents—from sun and rain. The 30,000-square-foot, all-abilities playground at Heather Farm Park is a coveted place for a birthday party and nearby picnic tables make it easy to celebrate with cake. walnut-creek.org (Runner-up: Lindsay Wildlife Experience)
Family Fun Spot
& BEST DOG PARK AND BEST CITY PARK
A Walnut Creek wonderland for recreation and activity, Heather Farm Park gets the award for family fun. This amazing 102-acre public park off Ygnacio Valley Road is prized for its wealth of facilities—a community aquatics center, a brilliant all-abilities playground, picnic grounds, tennis courts, acres of sports fields for baseball and soccer, a skate park, a fishing pond, and an equestrian center. Add to that acres of natural trails for long walks, a wild bird habitat, a dog park for unfettered romps, and event center for parties. walnut-creek.org
Dance Classes
Fitness Classes
A star among dance schools since 1976, Laureen Fender’s The Ballet School has taught thousands of students, as young as 2 years old, the beauty of expression through graceful movement. Fender’s granddaughter, Jennifer Perry, raised the bar even higher this year by relocating the studio from Main Street to a spacious new studio at Plaza Escuela. Dance classes range from creative to ballet to contemporary to tap along with music, voice and theater training. balletschool.org (Runner-up: Ace Dance Academy)
When this upscale health club and hotel opened in 2007, Renaissance Club Sport elevated Walnut Creek’s workout scene to a whole new level. Since then, the property has rebranded as Renaissance Bay Club, maintaining its dominance as a top-notch spot, especially for fitness classes. Studios deliver killer workouts in spin, yoga, Pilates, Zumba, kickboxing, cycling, Tae Bo, and more. bayclubs.com (Runner up: Forma Gym)
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BEST OF
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DO Hike With its extensive trails, distinctive rock formations, and a 3,849-foot summit, Mt. Diablo State Park inspires a hiking adventure. It’s relatively easy to access the extensive network of trails in the park from both North Gate Road in Walnut Creek and Diablo Road in Danville. Head up the mountain to Rock City, a local favorite for incredible views and family hikes. On a clear day, you can see for almost 200 miles. Check with the Mt. Diablo Interpretive Association for hiking trail maps (mdia.org) or go to parks.ca.gov/mtdiablo. (Runner-up: Shell Ridge)
offers a new way to experience the city. And that’s what art is all about. You can explore Walnut Creek’s diverse public art collection by listening to a downloadable app on a selfguided walking tour. Go to walkwc.toursphere.com. (Runner-up: Painted Pianos)
Community Event Wedding Venue From rustic chic to vintage country to modern glam, brides and grooms voted for The Gardens at Heather Farm as the best venue in Walnut Creek to tie the knot. Lush garden ceremonies, cocktails at the outdoor bar, and unforgettable receptions surrounded by thousands of roses, make this an ideal spot to host weddings spring through fall. gardenshf.org (Runner-up: Scott’s Seafood)
Public Art Artist Seyed Alavi’s Fountain Head has inspired endless conversations since it first debuted on Main Street in 2012. The winning public artwork, which resembles a peaceful, Buddhalike head, breaks up everyday life and
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One thing is undeniable, the Bay Area loves festivals. Walnut Creek kicks-off summer each year at the Art & Wine Festival in Heather Farm Park. During the two-day celebration, thousands of people and their pets converge on the
grassy lawns for a weekend of music, dance, wine, craft beer, and artisan crafts. Produced by the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, this community event is a standout. artwinefestivalwc.com
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Little Italy
Ask any Italian where to find the best Italian food and you’ll probably get the same answer: home. Really, though, is there even such a thing as bad Italian? How can you go wrong with a meal of mostly carbs, cheese, and bright, herby flavors? It’s a heavenly experience -- pure comfort wrapped in a blanket of primo ingredients. Walnut Creek is home to an array of Italian restaurants, here we introduce you to a few that are celebrating milestones, bucking the trends, and withstanding the test of time. Sit back, sip something big and red, and mangia. BY PEGGY SPEAR
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MONTECATINI RISTORANTE AND BAR As luck would have it, Montecatini opened its doors for the first time at 5:00pm on October 17, 1989, four minutes later the earth shook from the Loma Prieta earthquake. This fall the restaurant celebrated its 30th anniversary. Born in Vicenza, Italy, Executive Chef Ermes Paulin was encouraged by his parents at age 17 to attend a prestigious cooking school in Rome. “I thought it was silly at first,” he says. “But then I fell in love with cooking.” He trained in London for a few years at a restaurant near Buckingham Palace, then worked in Iran before the fall of the Shah. From a casino on the Caspian Sea to a cruise ship in California, Pauline made his way from San Diego to the East Bay and landed a chef position at Montecatini and later purchased the restaurant in 2014. Ten years ago he married his wife and business partner, Teresa Cheung, a former chemical engineer, who leaves the cooking to Pauline and runs the front of the house, putting together the restaurant’s award-winning wine list, marketing and reservations system. The secret to Montecatini’s longevity, they both agree, is “good food, good portions, and good wine pours.” It’s food that’s about heart and always deliciously consistent. montecatinirestaurant.com.
PRIMA Probably the most notable Italian restaurant in Walnut Creek, Prima Ristorante opened close to 40 years ago as a deli and wine shop on Main Street before it was transformed in 2005 by Chef Peter Chastain and his partner John Rittmaster, into a stylish Italian food and wine destination. Berkeley-born Chastain trained under industry leaders on the East and West coasts, then in Japan, before working at the helm of several top-notch Bay Area restaurants. “I’ve been fortunate to have studied food and hospitality with amazingly generous teachers. My goal is for that love and energy to come through in delicious food at Prima,” says Chastain. His knack for soulful seasonal flavors is reflected in delicate dishes like butternut squash ravioli covered in brown butter with crumbled amaretti and grilled Piedmontese beef rib-eye steak complemented with truffle sauce. With a wine list that now numbers over 1300 selections, Prima has earned an international reputation as one of the best in the world. Not bad for a former Main Street deli. primaristorante.com.
IL PAVONE Born and raised in Tuscany, brothers Nick and Marcello Bigotti were smart. Their Olympic Boulevard restaurant, Il Pavone, needed parking, so they bought the building and the surrounding lots. Originally a Walnut Creek livery stable, the bistro’s walls are lined with photos of their loyal clientele and famous patrons of the 30-year-old landmark. “Italian food is universally loved,” says Nick. “It’s like home. It’s like Mama’s food. It’s comfort.” It’s also a family affair, with Nick handling front of the house duties and Marcello running the back and cooking in the kitchen. ilpavonerestaurant.com.
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little italy ROCCO’S RISTORANTE PIZZERIA Known for its pizza and pasta, Rocco’s celebrated its 20-year anniversary at Encina Grande Shopping Center recently. The secret ingredient? “Great food and hard work. I’m here seven days a week and oversee everything. I’m the face of the restaurant, I’m very hands-on,” says owner Rocco Biale. Another well-known secret about this family-run business is Rocco’s generous community support: the restaurant has donated thousands of gift baskets to local auctions and sponsored countless sports teams. Being a restauranteur is in Rocco’s blood. His dad and uncle owned an Italian restaurant in San Francisco where he worked as a kid, “with red booths and white tablecloths,” he says. “It was an experience to dine there. There’s a difference between grabbing a bite to eat and having a sit-down dinner. Sometimes people want to be taken care of.” He’s quick to admit he doesn’t do it all alone. His oldest son Dante is the chief bartender, middle son Dominick is learning the “heavy lifting” of ordering food and drink, and daughter Nina, a new mom, waits tables three nights a week. Many of Rocco’s menu favorites are culled from family recipes—hand-tossed pies like the Dominator and Dante's Inferno, Naples-style pizza appetizers, and the Via Port Alba, made with fresh mozzarella di Bufala. Molto bene! roccospizzeria.com.
MASSIMO RISTORANTE It may seem strange that one of Walnut Creek’s oldest Italian restaurants is run by a native Austrian, but don’t tell that to Max Wolfe whose Locust Street Massimo’s is celebrating more than 40 years in business. Known for its Northern Italian cuisine, Massimo’s proximity to the Lesher Center draws before-and-after theater crowds for dinner and downtown business people at lunch. Some customers are regulars from the days when the restaurant was called Maximillian, which Max opened in 1977. Educated at the Hotel School in Switzerland, then in England and Canada, Max fell in love with cooking all types of dishes, especially the northern Italian kind, and says he serves the best cannelloni and steak in town. His secret to success? “Consistency,” he says. “Consistency in the food of course, and the service. You’re nowhere without good service.” massimoristorante.com.
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where & when ART | DANCE | MUSIC | THEATER | EVENTS
CHROMA BLUE, RICHARD AND JUDITH LANG
GREAT WAVE 1 THE CONTEMPORARY ART ABOUT THE OCEAN Organized by Bay Area curator Ann Trinca, Bedford Gallery opens 2020 with The Great Wave, an exhibition that reflects on the unpredictable power of the ocean and wider meaning of climate change. Artists in the show created works depicting the ocean as a source of mystery and strength, while also tackling the topic of alterations to the environment. January 12 – March 22, WC, bedfordgallery.org. ➤
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where & when
2
GARDEN OF D’LIGHTS
Journey through 3.5 acres of magical colorful sculptures illuminated for the holidays at the Ruth Bancroft Garden. Lasers and LEDs turn the massive collection of iconic cacti, succulents, and trees into festive works of art. Visitors of all ages are invited to experience this glowing night show. Weekend evenings through December 29, WC, ruthbancroftgarden.org.
3
EMPRESS OF THE BLUES
Katrina Lauren McGraw stars as Bessie Smith in “The Devil's Music, the Life & Blues of Bessie Smith.” transporting audiences for an electrifying evening of music, drama, and joy as she recounts the journey of her life and career, and songs that made her the show-stopping "Empress of the Blues." January 14-February 22, WC, lesherartscenter.org.
4
PRESIDIO THEATRE
After 24 years, the historic 1939 Presidio Theatre, where Bing Crosby, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra once performed, reopened on San Francisco’s historic military base. Fresh from a $30 million renovation, the building boasts a 600-seat theater for live music, plays, dance, film, and lectures. Go to presidiotheatre.org for a performance lineup.
5 ZOO LIGHTS
The Oakland Zoo is all decked out for the season in sparkling lights— a colorfully lit gondola, decorated animal enclosures, and a Music in Motion light show sing along. Nightly through January 5, oaklandzoo.org.
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where & when CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
Now performing under the Big Top at Oracle Park, Amaluna, travels to a mysterious island governed by goddesses and guided by cycles of the moon. Full of breathtaking spectacles, original scores, and remarkable acrobatics, this epic performance honors renewal, rebirth, and balance. Through January 12 in San Francisco, Opens January 22 in Sacramento. cirquedusoleil.com/amaluna
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PINKMAS!
Photograpby by Matt Beard
Pink is clearly the holiday color of choice at The Museum of Ice Cream. Visit this Instagram wonderland for festive displays, ornament crafting stations, tasty treats, and tree decorating. Through January 12, museumoficecream.com.
8 WINTER PARK AT CIVIC CENTER
Modeled after the internationally-famed Wiener-project—located in the City Hall Square of Vienna, Austria—Winter Park is the first ice track of its kind in the US weaving skaters through a sparkling forest of trees. Open through January 5, Civic Center, San Francisco, winterparkicerinksf.com.
UNION SQUARE RINK
A festive outdoor ice-skating experience in the center of San Francisco’s iconic plaza and premier shopping district. The rink’s highly anticipated roster of events includes Drag Queens on Ice and Polar Bear Skate. Through January 20, Union Square, SF, unionsquareicerink.com.
WALNUT CREEK ON ICE
Located in the heart of Civic Park, Walnut Creek’s seasonal outdoor ice rink dazzles and delights skaters of all ages and skill levels. Group lessons, birthday parties, and special events. Open through January 20, walnutcreekonice.com.
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where & when TALE OF DESPEREAUX
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9
HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD
A new play by Jack Thorne follows an adult Harry Potter— an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic, husband, and father of three school-age children— is performed at The Curran in two parts, which you can see on the same day or at separate performances. Through May 2020, sfcurran.com.
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SOUL OF A NATION
Celebrating works by African American artists during two pivotal decades in history (1963–1983), Soul of a Nation captures a turbulent time when race and identity were central issues. Beginning at the height of the Civil Rights Movement, works in the show reflects the strength, solidarity, and struggle of black artists in America. November 9-March 15, de Young museum, SF, famsf.org.
Faith Ringgold, “The Flag is Bleeding” 1967
13 HAMILTON
This winner of 11 Tony Awards has extended its San Francisco stay. The story of America's Founding Father Alexander Hamilton features a blend of hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B, and Broadway. Listen to America then, sung by America now. Extended through May 31, shnsf.com.
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Acclaimed PigPen Theatre Co. brings its inventive and imaginative retelling of the Newbery Medal-winning modern fable to Berkeley Rep in a new musical based on the novel by Kate DiCamillo and the Universal Pictures animated film. The show is a spellbinding musical treat resonating with adults and children alike. Through January 5, berkeleyrep.org.
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NURSE OF SALEM
World Premiere of Sarah Ruhl’s Becky Nurse of Salem comes to Berkeley Repertory in a dark comedy about the legacy of the Salem Witch Trials. The show was developed by The Ground Floor: Berkeley Rep’s Center for Creation and Development in New York. Through January 26, berkeleyrep.org.
where & when
14 ART OF BURNING MAN
Spectacular artwork and large-scale installations from one of the most celebrated cultural events in the world kicks-off the Oakland Museum of California 50th Anniversary season. Learn about Burning Man's origins, values of inclusivity, community, and creativity. Through February 16, museumca.org.
15 WAKEY, WAKEY
Two-time Emmy Award winner Tony Hale (HBO's Veep) stars in an intimate comedy about love, life and what it means to be human. January 23–February 16, SF, act-sf.org.
16 SPONGEBOB
Winner of the 2018 Best Musical Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards, Nickelodeon’s The SpongeBob Musical comes to San Francisco in a Broadway extravaganza The New Yorker calls “effervescent candy-forthe-spirit” and optimism for the soul. February 12-16, SF, shnsf.com.
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THE LAST SHIP
Superstar Sting stars in his critically acclaimed musical at the Golden Gate Theatre in a heartfelt and empowering musical about Newcastle's shipbuilding community in the 1980s. February 20 – March 22, SF, shnsf.com.
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where & when
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FASHION & FAITH
Original works from 19th century French artist James Tissot are on display at San Francisco’s Legion of Honor in a retrospective show that portrays the breadth of his skills at the dawn of the modern era. Through February 9, SF, famsf.org.
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VINEGAR TOM
If witches have so much power, then why are they always povertystricken? Vinegar Tom is a wild mash-up of desperate women living in 17th century society set to modern musical numbers connecting the tale to our own troubled times. This is Churchill at her best: raw, satirical, political, and mad as hell! Through January 5, Berkeley, shotgunplayers.org.
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FEINSTEINS AT THE NIKKO
20 SOFT POWER
During the Reagan era, culture, political values, and foreign policies were among the country's "soft" assets considered more influential than violence or coercion. This SFMOMA exhibition underscores the power of artists exercising their roles as citizens and social actors. Through February 17, sfmoma.org. 58
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San Francisco’s premier intimate nightclub presents a wide range of entertainers—from award-winning artists and Broadway’s newest stars to jazz legends, R&B greats, and Bay Area vocalists—this winter. Margo Seibert (Jan. 9), Sharon McKnight (Jan. 15–16), Andy Karl & Orfeh (Jan. 17–18), Kyra Gordon (Jan. 19), Kate Baldwin (Jan.24–25), Cabaret Karaoke (Jan. 29), Paula West (Feb 6-16), Rizo (Feb. 11), Leslie Jordan (Feb. 19), Tuck & Patti (Feb.21–22). feinsteinsatthenikko.com
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DINING GUIDE
MONTECATINI RISTORANTE & BAR
AWA R DE D B E S T C H E F & B E S T I TA L I A N S F E A S T B AY
WHERE TO EAT NOW EDITED BY ANNELI RUFUS
These listings include advertisers and non-advertisers at the discretion of Walnut Creek Magazine. We suggest that you phone the restaurants ahead for reservations, current hours, and days of operation. All listings are in the (925) area code, unless noted otherwise. We welcome your comments and suggestions. Please write to us: Dine, Walnut Creek Magazine PO Box 5550, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 or email us at info@walnutcreekmagazine.com.
AMERICAN
BREAKFAST JOINTS / BURGERS / SALADS / BARBECUE BUTTERCUP: At this family- run restaurant, it’s all about savory homemade meals. Besides big breakfasts, Buttercup dishes up lunch and dinner. And on Fridays, they serve Matzo Ball soup. 660 Ygnacio Valley Rd., 932-2763, buttercupgrillandbar.com
EXTENSIVE WINE LIST W I N E S P E CTATO R 2 01 9 AWA R D O F E X C E LL E N C E L E G E N D A RY I T A L I A N C U I S I N E S I N C E 1989 CHEF-OWNER ERMES PAULIN Serving Dinners Tuesday – Sunday • Happy Hour Daily 5:00 to 6:30pm 1528 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek • 925-943-6608 MONTECATINIRESTAURANT.COM
DENICA’S: There’s a lot to love at this north Walnut Creek restaurant starting with the mouthwatering pastries lining the bakery’s shelves. Other show stoppers include Benedict four ways and big salads. 2280 Oak Grove Rd., 945-6200, denicascafe.com.
HERITAGE EATS: Locally-sourced fresh ingredients transformed
into flavorful wraps, bowls, salads, and tacos. The Med Falafel Wrap stuffed with quinoa tabbouleh, slaw, cucumber, and tzatziki is a must. 24 Broadway Lane, BP, 475-5222, heritageeats.com.
HEAVENLY BISTRO: Fans flock here for tasty meals served three
times a day, but it’s the breakfasts that make this café a standout. Eggs Benedict, farm fresh omelets, waffles, crepes, corned beef hash, they do it all in heaping portions. 3116 Oak Rd., 448-8099, heavenlybistro.com.
LETTUCE: A salad emporium that loads farm-fresh produce into
generously sized classics and creative new inventions. Locals love the Napa and Pink Lady salads. 1632 Locust St., 933-5600, lettucerestaurant.com.
it’s simply DElish
the DUCK burger
MOOYAH: It’s a franchise with a load of personality. Take your kids to this colorful burger joint and let them build their own burger and eat it with a side of fries. 1815 Ygnacio Valley Rd., 280-5555, mooyah.com.
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE: New Yorks, rib eyes and filets are
served on sizzling 500-degree plates cooked to perfection. Round out the meal with spinach au gratin and potatoes Lyonnaise at this swanky steakhouse. 1553 Olympic Blvd., 977-3477, ruthschris.com.
CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED BURGERS, FRIES & COMFORT FOOD SCRATCH COOKING • CRAFT BEER & COCKTAILS LU N C H • D I N N E R • W E E K E N D B RU N C H
1548 Bonanza Street, Walnut Creek, (925) 945-6960 BRODERICKROADHOUSE.COM best of 2019 / walnut creek
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SAUCED BBQ: With dozens of tv screens and as many craft beers
YOUR
W•••a••l•n••u••t•••C••r•e••e••k
on tap, Sauced is the place for watching games, while indulging in a heaping pile of nachos. Order the juicy brisket or tender ribs, it’s all good, especially with a side of buffalo blue fries. 1410 Locust St., 433-5957, saucedbbqandspirits.com.
SUNRISE BISTRO: The emphasis here is on fresh, healthy food. For breakfast try the sweet potato hash or yogurt pancakes. At lunch, you can’t go wrong with a chicken salad sandwich or big salad. 1559 Botelho Dr., 930-0122, sunrisebistrocatering.com. THE CHEESESTEAK SHOP: Walnut Creek’s oldest fast-food joint has been grilling up Philly cheesesteaks since the 1980’s. Thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, peppers, & onions come stuffed in a crispy-doughy roll. Dive in with their seasoned curly fries. 1626 Cypress St., 934-7017, cheesesteakshop.com.
THE COUNTER: Upscale burger joint where they make it the way you want it, from exotic to classic, and top it with your favorites. Plump patties range from beef, bison, turkey and mahi mahi. 1699 N. California Blvd., 935-3795, thecounterburger.com.
ACGfNcOP North Locust Street, Between Giamona and Lacassie
OPEN YEAR ROUND
Market Hours: 9am-1pm
ACGfNcOP
THE ORIGINAL HICK’RY PIT: This diner is known for its honest American food served all day with a heaping side of hospitality. House specialties are barbecue ribs and homemade pies. 1495 S. Main St., 935-7450, hickrypit.com. TRUE FOOD KITCHEN: Always packed, Dr. Weil’s culinary venture is a hit here. The grass-fed burger is one of the best in town, so is the beet bruschetta, squash & ricotta pizza, and seasonal salads. Organic, gluten-free ingredients are used in the cocktails. Broadway Plaza, 952-7314, truefoodkitchen.com.
ASIAN
CHINESE / VIETNAMESE / JAPANESE / THAI / FUSION BURMA 2: It’s a melting pot of Asian and Indian flavors. Tea leaf salad is a standout—shredded romaine tossed with yellow beans, peanuts, seeds, fried garlic, jalapenos, and pungent tea leaves— tossed tableside. 1616 N. Main St., 261-8580, burma2.com.
Crisp
Kale •••••••••••••••••••••••••••• /WalnutCreekFarmersMarket @walnutcreekfarmersmarket www.cccfm.org
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DRAGON POND: Executive Chef Xiao creates Hunan and Mandarin delicacies. House favorites include Mango Chicken, Honey Walnut Prawns and Salt & Pepper Calamari. 1353 Locust St., 926-0278, dragonpond.com. KEVIN’S NOODLE HOUSE: Classic Vietnamese pho noodle bowls
take center stage at this affordable, upbeat spot perfect for lunch or dinner. Tasty fish cakes and spring rolls are good bets for appetizers. 2034 N. Main St., 933-4746, kevinsnoodlehouse.com.
KOJA KITCHEN: This Korean-Japanese fusion fast casual chain gets high marks for barbecue short ribs and Kamikaze fries. They also do salads and bowls. 1550 Olympic Boulevard, 448-8218, kojakitchen.com. MIXED GRAIN: Authentic Korean comfort food. Try the bibimbap, a big bowl of fluffy rice, colorful vegetables and creamy egg. Nine condiments accompany every meal, including spicy cucumber and seaweed salad. 1546 Bonanza St., 938-5959, mixedgrain.com.
ASIAN
CHINESE / VIETNAMESE / JAPANESE / THAI / FUSION OKE POKE: Trick out a rice, lettuce or noodle bowl with salmon or tuna then sweet onions, mango, spicy crab, ginger, cilantro, and roasted seeds. Spice it up with a hand-crafted sauce. Miso soup, poke burritos, and Hawaiian ice round out the menu. 1529 Locust St., 891-4616, okepoke.com PF CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO: This large Chinese restaurant man-
ages to feel intimate with an interesting menu that draws on multiple Asian cooking styles. Try the lettuce wraps and Dan Dan noodles. 1205 Broadway Plaza, 979-9070, pfchangs.com.
PLEARN THAI: Regulars pack the tables for the succulent flavors in the barbecue meats, pan-fried eggplant and curry prawns. Save room for the heavenly batter-fried bananas topped with coconut ice cream. 1510 N. Main Street, 937-7999, plearnthaipalace.com. POKEATERY: Japanese-influenced Hawaiian fast-casual food
is proliferating in Walnut Creek, but we like Pokeatery for its sustainably-sourced seafood—ahi, yellowtail, salmon—served on rice, noodles, or greens topped with unlimited mix-ins. Do a Dole whip for dessert. 1345 Newell Ave., 287-1888, pokeatery.com.
SASA: Upscale Japanese izakaya with dazzling décor and decadently fresh fish. Melt-in-your-mouth sashimi is served with an array of sake.1432 N. Main St., 210-0188, sasawc.com.
VANESSA'S BISTRO: During happy hour, prices at this popular
Vietnamese spot drop to $6 for most small plates and cocktails including green papaya prawn salad, petrale sole fish tacos and crispy Saigon rolls. 1512 Locust St., 891-4790, vanessasbistro2.com.
CALIFORNIA
PASTA / FISH / ORGANIC PRODUCE A’TRIO: Lively restaurant-lounge inside the Walnut Creek
Marriott turns out delicious California cuisine with a Mediterranean flare. 2355 N. Main St., 934-2000, marriottwalnutcreek.com.
1515 RESTAURANT LOUNGE: Always bustling for cocktails, flavorful pastas and fresh fish, the heated outdoor patio is a good place to people watch. 1515 N. Main Street, 939-1515, 1515wc.com. CITRUS: This hip restaurant inside Renaissance Club Sport, features Pacific Rim dishes and California classics. Sunday brunch is a weekend ritual. 2805 N. Jones Rd., 938-8700, renaissanceclubsport.com.
MAIN STREET KITCHEN: Farm-fresh ingredients grace the menu here. Standouts include fish and chips with house cabbage slaw, and fried green pickles come with a lemon aioli. 1358 N. Main St., 933-1001, mainstkitchen.com. METRO: In a seriously chic space with a huge outdoor patio, the
kitchen turns out international fare from diverse organic ingredients. 3524 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, 284-4422, metrolafayette.com.
THE PEASANT'S COURTYARD: A casual spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner served in a charming outdoor courtyard. Pancakes, ribs, burgers and calamari. 3195 Danville Blvd, Alamo, 362-0088, thepeasantscourtyard.com. best of 2019 / walnut creek
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FAMILY SPECIAL FEEDS 4-6 PEOPLE
$52.99
California Comfort Food Taste it at Walnut Creek’s Oldest Restaurant SERVING Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Daily CARRY OUT, CATERING, DELIVERY 1495 S. Main Street, Walnut Creek (925) 935-7450 hickrypit.com VA DE VI BISTRO: With its sophisticated vibe and al fresco dining,
the restaurant's sips are accompanied by small plates--bite size burgers, pasta, and seafood. 1511 Mt. Diablo Blvd., 979-0100, vadevi.com.
ITALIAN / PIZZA GENOVA: Italian meats, fresh ravioli and sauces. Take a number; fans line-up for the fresh sandwiches at lunch. 1105 S. California Blvd., 939-3838 and 2064 Treat Blvd., 938-2888. genovadeli.net.
IL FORNAIO: Italian food so innovative, you’ll forget it’s a chain. Lovely dining room with outdoor seating in the heart of downtown shopping. 1430 Mount Diablo Blvd., 296-0100, ilfornaio.com. MASSIMO: Upscale atmosphere with a piano bar and food from Northern Italy. Just across the street from the Lesher Center for the Arts, Massimo's offers good small plates and pasta. 1604 Locust St., 932-1474, massimoristorante.com.
MONTECATINI RISTORANTE: An Italian restaurant with staying power; it opened the day of the big earthquake in 1989. The traditional menu features excellent seafood, pastas and veal. 1528 Civic Drive, 943-6608, montecatinirestaurant.com
MORUCCI'S: Fans travel from several towns away for these savory
sandwiches. Try the 6 3/4: turkey, tomato and fresh mozzarella on ciabatta, pastrami or the popular chicken Caesar sandwich. 1218 Boulevard Way, 939-2426.
POSTINO: In a romantic, fireplace-studded, brick building,
executive chef Stewart Beatty and his team create elegant dishes
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from fresh seasonal ingredients. 3565 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, 299-8700, postinorestaurant.com.
PRIMA: Everything’s made fresh on the premises at Chef Peter
Chastain’s acclaimed contemporary Italian restaurant. His flavorful risottos and light gnocchi will have you coming back for more. 1522 N. Main St., 935-7780, primaristorante.com.
ROCCO’S: This is the place for pizza aficionados. The meaty Dominator and vegetarian Dante’s Inferno are house specialties, along with heaping pastas and salads. 2909 Ygnacio Valley Rd., 947-6105, roccospizzeria.com. SKIPOLINI’S: Fans flock here for the family vibe and can't- miss pies. The Martinelli. Legend has it the Prego pizza brings on labor. 1535 Giammona Dr., 280-1100, skipolinispizza.com. 54 MINT FORNO: Burrata cheese is showcased here in a delicious appetizer with roasted peppers. They also make a mind-blowing lasagna. 1686 Locust Street, 476-5844, 54mintforno.com.
MEXICAN EL CHARRO: A Lafayette favorite, the margaritas are magic accompanied by chips, salsa and “cheese dip.” From fish tacos to burritos, this restaurant has served generations of locals. 3339 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, 283-2345, elcharro1947.com. LA MORDIDA: This tiny taqueria packs in locals for their tacos
filled with carnitas folded into fresh tortillas and topped with cilantro, diced onions, and salsa verde. 607 Gregory Ln., Pleasant Hill, 944-9188, la-mordida.com.
MARIA MARIA: This beautiful Mexican restaurant is known for its creative dishes like creamy duck tacos and mole short ribs. 1470 N. Broadway, 946-1010, mariamariarestaurants.com. TACOS WALNUT CREEK: Lines are already forming at this new self-
serve authentic taqueria for El Pastor tacos smothered in grilled onions, pineapple and cilantro, bean burritos, and chicken enchiladas. 1690 Locust St., 464-7489, tacoswalnutcreek.com.
MID-TO-FAR-EAST GYROS / GREEK SALADS / KABOBS
BABALOU'S: Great food at great prices. The Middle Eastern menu is seductive for vegetarians and carnivores alike—with aromatic meats and a tempting display of salads served in a brightly muraled room. 1645 Bonanza St., 930-8000, babalous.com.
JACK’S: This restaurant has a warm vibe and big bar. Souvlaki and spanakopita honor the owners' Greek heritage; an eclectic international menu featuring pasta, steak and breakfasts. 60 Crescent Dr., Pleasant Hill, 849-6195, jacksrestaurants.com. SILK ROAD: Good food served in a sunny patio setting. House favor-
ites are kabobs, gyros and falafels, but save room, you can make a meal from the appetizer plate served with piping hot pita bread. 1440 N. Main St., 932-9090, silkroadwalnutcreek.com.
SEAFOOD CALIFORNIA FISH GRILL: It’s a franchise and a good one. The menu features a dozen or so species of fresh fish and shellfish, including scallops, all sustainably sourced. Order at the counter, grab a booth & enjoy the atmosphere. 2910 Ygnacio Valley Rd., 444-0360, cafishgrill.com. PACIFIC CATCH: Located on the ground floor of the Agora, this
Hawaiian inspired fish house packs a punch with a big menu featuring plenty of fresh fish—in shrimp tacos, poke bowls, seafood towers, lobster rolls. 1305 S. Main St., 378-7565, pacificcatch.com.
SCOTT'S: Elegant surroundings, attentive service and good food. They also do a lavish Sunday brunch, catering and social events. 1333 N California Blvd., 934-1300, scottsrestaurants.com.
WALNUT CREEK YACHT CLUB: The restaurant’s specialties — killer
cocktails and phenomenal fish —attract barflies and foodies alike. 1555 Bonanza St., 944-3474, walnutcreekyachtclub.com.
SOUTH AMERICAN PERUVIAN / SPANISH / BRAZILIAN
PARADA: While the menu offers a diverse selection, the ceviche is a must. Rotisserie chickens are also a big seller, along with mac n cheese. 7001 Sunne Lane, 448-8118, paradakitchen.com. SABORES DEL SUR: Chilean cuisine reigns at this eatery. You can't go
wrong the robust empanadas stuffed with meat or vegetarian fillings inside flaky pastry dough. 3003 Oak Rd., 954-8300, saboresdelsursf.com.
TELEFERIC BARCELONA: Walnut Creek's Spanish hot spot serves tasty bites along with fresh paella and steak in a stunning atmosphere. 1500 Mt. Diablo Blvd., 451-9576, telefericbarcelona.com.
local FARMERS’ MARKETS ALAMO Alamo Plaza Every Sunday, 9am-2pm alamoplazashoppingcenter.com BENICIA First Street, Between B&D Thursday, 4pm-8pm beniciamainstreet.org CLAYTON Diablo Street, Main & Center Saturday 9am-1pm pcfma.org MORAGA Moraga Shopping Center Every Sunday 9am-1pm cafarmersmkts.com DANVILLE Railroad & Prospect Saturday 9am-1pm pcfma.org ORINDA Orinda Village Saturday 9am-1pm cccfm.org WALNUT CREEK North Locust Street Sunday 9am-1pm cccfm.org DIABLO VALLEY Shadelands Business Park Saturday 9am-1pm cafarmersmkts.com CONCORD Todos Santos Plaza Willow Pass & Grant Tuesday 10am-2pm Thursday 4pm-8pm pcfma.org
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day trip
ALL ABOARD
TRAVEL IN GRANDEUR ON THE NAPA VALLEY WINE TRAIN
E
choing back to the glory days of train travel, an afternoon spent in the charming confines of a plush dining car may be the finest way to explore the wine country. The Napa Valley Wine Train’s 36-mile route from Napa through Yountville and Oakville to St. Helena, and back, tours through legendary vineyards and wineries while you sip a flute of champagne and savor a delicious meal. The winter months are a particularly good time to book a trip, when crowds thin, wineries get decked in holiday decor, and rich cabs taste even better by a roaring fire. Wine train accommodations include mahogany paneling, brass accents, etched glass, and posh armchairs, a throwback to the heyday of luxury train travel in the early 1900s. Elevate your experience in the two-story Vista Dome dining
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car taking in spectacular views from practically every angle on a three-hour lunch tour. A delicious four-course meal is served by a polished wait team, prepared by dozens of talented chefs who work their culinary magic from the train’s open air kitchen—basil-ricotta ravioli covered in shaved black truffle, silky smoked salmon crudo, pan-seared scallops in carrot squash puree. House-made chocolate almond tortes and sea salt gelato caramel popcorn complete your culinary adventure. This delightful dining experience definitely rivals even the finest wine country establishments. You’ll find the Napa Valley Wine Train at McKinstry Street Station where its early 20th century Pullman coaches whisk passengers along on 3-hour and 6-hour routes. Seasonal packages celebrate Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Valentine’s Day as well as intimate tastings with winery owners, concerts, and art tours. winetrain.com
INSIDER TIP: After you return to the station, walk to another go-to Napa foodie destination, Oxbow Market. (Or drive over, there’s ample parking.) Inside the bustling food hall are market stalls filled with fresh produce, cheese, flowers, wines, and charcuterie. It will overwhelm your senses. Stock up on some goodies to take home.
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BEST OF 2019
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