walnut creek
The Insider’s Guide to Walnut Creek
july / a u g ust 2011
M
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Summer
fun
A Sizzling Guide to
BEACHES HIKES CAMPS KIDS FESTIVALS CONCERTS
OUTDOOR DINING FUN STUFF TO DO IDEAS GALORE
Plus
A Beekeepers Buzz The Apartment Boom
Reflexology Flood Technology in Small Hands
r e s t a u r an t s | a r t | en t e r t ainmen t | p e o p l e | e v en t s
Business Banking
|
Corporate Banking
|
Wealth Management
|
Personal Banking
I don’t really think you could be in this type of business if
you didn’t absolutely love it. It’s not a get-rich-quick kind of
business. It’s a lot of hard work. It’s a lot of long hours. If you
don’t have a passion for it, it’s going to show and you probably
won’t be successful. The fact that Mechanics Bank has been
around for a hundred years shows me that they share that
passion. That’s important. That’s why I’m a Mechanic.
Sara Richardson, Owner/Operator, Lilygrass Fresh Flower Design
Give us a call at 800.797.6324, visit the website at www.ImaMechanic.com, or better yet, just come in,
sit down and talk with us. It’s a great way to find out if you’re a Mechanic too. Member FDIC
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Angel Island
Inside
July / August 2011
44 Summer Fun
Our indispensable guide to a sensational
summer. Here are the best places to hang at
the beach, connect with your kids, groove at
outdoor concerts and so much more.
By Peggy Spear, Linda Childers
and Elizabeth Rusiecki
july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
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21
36
12
42
20
12 Trends / Beekeeping
Honey maker Mike Stephanos gives
us the buzz on his business and the
creatures he calls the ‘canary in the
coal mine’ for our food supply.
By Elizabeth Rusiecki
16 Good Reads / New Books
From a memoir by Jaycee Dugard to
a new antioxidant food counter, local
authors are heating up the book shelves.
By Linda Childers
30 City Revealed
A column that answers your
questions about our city.
By Elizabeth Rusiecki
36 Kids & Technology
Hi tech gadgets in the hands of elementary
school kids. Is this trend good or bad
for our next generation?
By Elizabeth Rusiecki
38/40 July & August Calendars
18 Shopping / What’s Hot
Shopping essentials for a sizzling summer!
42 On Stage
A lively look at on stage performances.
20 Talk of the Town / Buzz
Events, business and retail news,
restaurant openings plus five things
you can do now to prepare for the
next “big one.”
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By Sally Hogarty
60 Dining Guide
july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
5
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walnut creek
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The Insider’s Guide to Walnut Creek
July/August 2011
Publisher
Pam B. Kessler
Editors
Gladys Becker
Lauren Kessler
Art Director
Carrie Wallahan
web designer
925.937.2011
www.ccawalnutcreek.com
Karyn Charm
Photographers
Continuing Cosmetology Academy Salon
1639 N. California Blvd., Walnut Creek
Lisa Duncan
Jim Fidelibus
Tiffany Fong
Brian Murphy
Kendal Simonse
Shelly Waldman
Writers
Anneli Rufus
Linda Childers
Lois Courchaine
Deborah Grossman
Sally Hogarty
Elizabeth Rusiecki
Peggy Spear
Jolene Thym
Jennifer Wake
Kessler Communications, Inc.
P.O. Box 5550, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
925/212-5146 Fax 925/939-8819
Email wcmag@sbcglobal.net
www.walnutcreekmagazine.com
Walnut Creek Magazine is published bimonthly
by Kessler Communications, Inc. Subscriptions are
$15 for 6 issues. Send checks for subscriptions to:
P.O. Box 5550, Walnut Creek, CA 94596.
No material from Walnut Creek Magazine may be
reproduced without written consent from the publisher.
For Advertising and Editorial Information,
go to www.walnutcreekmagazine.com
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July / august 2011
Six
ne
wi
S!
Six
me
l
da
S!
Clos e to Home
Far From Ordinary
Wal n u t Cr eek’s F irst W inery
It begins in the soil, and blossoms in the fruit. It’s tended to, by hand, in the vineyard and nurtured in
the winery the very same way. It’s blended with passion and experience, aged with patience and care.
It’s the unmistakable taste of quality. And you’ll find it in every glass of Shadowbrook wine.
Kauai
Kauai
3739 Shadowbrook Court | walnut Creek, Ca 94598 | (925) 988-wIne | w w w. s h a dow b rook w i n e r y. c o m
Meet Our Contributors
Peggy Spear is an award-
Linda Childers is an
East Bay native who writes
for a variety of regional and
national publications. Her
articles have appeared in Redbook, Ladies Home Journal,
More, Bay Area Parent and
many other magazines.
James Brian Fidelibus is
an award winning photographer based in Walnut Creek.
His sought after wall portraits
are displayed in family homes
from Atherton to Zephyr
Cove. To view his portfolio,
go to jamesbrian.com.
Sally Hogarty has been
Elizabeth Rusiecki is
Tiffany Fong is a portrait
and commercial photographer
who owns Studio Fotographica
in Walnut Creek. Her studio
offers a broad range of photography. To view her work, go to
www.studiofotographica.com
winning editor and writer.
She has been in the publishing business for over 15
years with the Contra Costa
Times, Diablo Magazine,
Bay Area Parent and most
recently, Concord Patch.
peggy.spear@gmail
a freelance writer recently
transplanted to Walnut
Creek from the Southwest.
She is an active advocate
of children’s literacy
and writing programs.
elizabethrusiecki@me.com
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July / august 2011
involved in Bay Area Theater
for over 30 years as an actress,
producer, photographer, and
publicist. She writes for the
Contra Costa Times and is the
editor of The Orinda News.
sallyhogarty@gmail.com
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Coming
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Fall Preview
From the Publisher
I
I love to listen to people talk about weather in California. As a
woman from Michigan where winters are cold and icy and summers
short, hot and humid, the weather here is absolute bliss. I’ll take
a few extra cool rainy days in June anytime. Plus, it’s good for the
earth. By now, with Bay Area temperatures soaring, those days are
long forgotten. We decided to jump into July with a guide that is
inspired by our warm sunny weather (and coastal fog) – a get out
and go summer fun guide. And because we live in one of the most
exciting places in the country, we are rewarded with an overflowing
bounty of summer fun. From beaches and surfside hikes to great
ways to keep your kids busy and cool concerts, we’ve got you
covered. Our team of writers put together a resource you can use
time and again. It all starts on page 44.
The Arts
Fashion
Back to School Style
Wine Country Getaways
New Dining Guide
Our plan was to launch an expanded dining guide in this issue, but
we’re saving that for fall when you return for the holidays and from
adventures, hungry for new ideas on where to dine.
Wherever your summer fun takes you, it’s the time of year to kick
back, relax and enjoy.
Pam B. Kessler
Space Deadline
August 12
For advertising information:
(925) 212-5146
info@ walnutcreekmagazine.com
walnut creek
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P.O. Box 5550
Walnut Creek, CA 94596-1550
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July / august 2011
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TO MY
CHILD’S HEALTH
trends
Beekeeping
I
A Sweet Buzz
By Elizabeth Rusiecki
Photography By Robert Capra
It’s said we should thank the hardworking honeybee for
every third bite of food off of our plates. These creatures
discretely perform their job of pollinating our fruits, flowers, and vegetables. They are an important and vital part
of our ecosystem. Thanks to media coverage on vanishing
honeybee populations and the growth of backyard organic
gardens, the Bay Area has become a hive of activity in the
blooming trend of urban beekeeping.
About five years ago, beekeepers nationwide began to
report they were losing 30 to 90% of their hives. The cause
of this mysterious trend, known as Colony Collapse Disorder, has been blamed on everything from pesticides and
herbicides to mites, bacteria, viruses and loss of foraging
grounds. But experts agree on one thing – today’s honeybees are under tremendous stress.
The Mt. Diablo Beekeepers Association spreads “the buzz”
about beekeeping at schools and gardening groups. “We
want people to understand how nonthreatening bees are
and how important they are to our environment and our
food source,” says honey maker Mike Stephanos. “They are
continued on pg 14
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July / august 2011
Shop. Dine. Enjoy.
SHOPS
1
5. CVS/Pharmacy 938-7616
13
6. McCaulou’s 935-9300
7. Safeway 937-8537
14
8. Factory Direct Furniture 932-4626
9. Milner’s Jewelers 938-3915
25
10. Countrywood Music 937-1375
2
11. Countrywood Florist 932-6110
12. NorCal Swim Shop 933-7946
BEAUTY/FITNESS
15
1. Countrywood Fitness 933-2668
2. Tropical Solution Tanning Salon 932-3524
9
3
8
3. Countrywood Nail Salon 934-5157
16
4. David’s Hairporte 935-7711
10
11
12
4
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McCAULOU’S
6
CVS
5
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SAFEWAY
7
20
27
21
29
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26
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Food & Drink
SERVICES
13. Artie’s Countrywood Lounge 934-5662
25. Fashion Cleaners 939-9580
14. Chinatown Café 933-3278
26. Provident Credit Union 941-6308
15. Genova’s Delicatessen 938-2888
16. Sorrento Italian Restaurant 938-3366
27. Cousin’s Locksmith 938-8852
17. Una Mas Mexican Grill 933-9500
29. The UPS Store 934-2844
18. All Star Donuts 256-6478
19. Panera Bread 933-2230
30. State Farm Insurance 256-7897
30
23
24
28. Countrywood Management Office 939-8800
20. Noah’s New York Bagels 256-8284
21. Starbucks Coffee 256-9267
22. Jamba Juice 944-2900
23. Yogafina Frozen Yogurt 274-9646
24. Black Bear Diner 941-0000
Countrywood Shopping center
Treat Boulevard and Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek www.countrywoodshoppingcenter.com
march / april 2011
walnut creek magazine
13
continued from pg.12
the ‘canary in the coal mine’ for our food supply. It really
tells us what’s going on.” In fact, about 1/3 of our vegetable,
fruit, and nut crops depend on the pollinating services of
bees.
Thirteen years ago, Stephanos watched an old beekeeper
remove a neighborhood swarm. Fascinated, he bought his
first hive for $50. “That one hive grew to two very quickly. Within the next year I had six,” he says. Now, 80 of his
colonies dot the east bay, from Livermore to Rossmoor to
Orinda. His raw, unprocessed Home Town Honey, extracted
in his Saranap backyard, is making its way to health food and
specialty store shelves.
The recipe for honey is
simple but labor intensive. Field bees will fly up
to 18 square miles in pursuit of nectar and pollen.
Once they return to the
hive, they “vomit” nectar
out of one of two stomachs; then house bees
take over, fluttering their
wings over the enzyme
and nectar con-coction
to reduce the moisture content. The creatures ingeniously
lay wax at an angle on hive frames to reduce spillage, fill
it with the fresh honey, then cap it off for safe storage. At
peak nectar flow, Stephanos can retrieve full frames of honey every 15 to 30 days.
Stephanos positions his hives around the edges of
neighborhoods, where lush landscaping blooms and bees
thrive on everything from eucalyptus and rosemary to wild
mustard seed and poppies. “My neighbors thank me for having bees in my backyard because their lemon and orange
trees do extremely well.” Bees only really sting if they’re
feeling trapped, threatened or you’re bugging their hive,”
he says.
In peak conditions, an average of 60,000 bees per hive or
4.8 million stingers call Stephanos’ honey kingdoms home.
“And the majority of them are girls. And my wife’s not jealous,” he laughs. “I play with the bees every day. When I’m
with them, it’s as if everything calms down.”
If you’re sweet on the idea of urban beekeeping, the
MDBA website is abuzz with information for the budding apiarist at www.diablobees.org.
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july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
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good reads
New Books by Local Authors
by Linda Childers
The Imperfect
Traveler’s Guide to
Traveling with Pain
Original Sin: A Sally
Sin Adventure
A Stolen Life:
A Memoir
Beth McMullen
Jaycee Lee Dugard
Liz Hamill
(Hyperion, July, 2011)
(Simon & Schuster, July, 2011)
In her debut fiction novel, Beth
McMullen introduces readers to Sally Sin, a woman who
traded in her life as a covert
operative for the laid-back
life of a San Francisco stayat-home mom. But when her
nemesis, Blackford, an illegal
arms dealer, reappears on her
Agency’s radar, Sin is called
back to action. What follows is
a smart and funny story about
one woman’s quest to juggle
parenthood with a high-powered, secret career. McMullen
offers readers a great book to
take to the beach for a dose of
escapism.
When Jaycee Dugard was
found in Antioch after being
kidnapped for 18 years, the
case made national headlines.
Now, Dugard recounts the
story of her harrowing ordeal
in this riveting and candid
memoir. Kidnapped from her
home in South Lake Tahoe at
the age of 11, Dugard was
held captive by Philip and
Nancy Garrido, forced to live
in isolation in their backyard
and gave birth to two of her
captor’s children. Dugard
opens up about her suffering
and shares how she has built
a new life for herself and her
daughters.
(Hunt Press, April, 2011)
If you’re one of the more than
70 million Americans who suffer from chronic pain, planning
a vacation might seem like
more work than fun. South Bay
author Liz Hamill has suffered
from chronic pain since she was
28, and her new book offers
readers tips on how to enjoy
amusement parks, outdoor
adventures and stress-free
vacations, all while minimizing
the pain.
The Whole Family
Cookbook:
Celebrate the
Goodness of Locally
Grown Foods
Michelle Stern
(Adams Media, April, 2011)
Through her popular Bay Area
children’s cooking classes,
Michelle Stern has taught kids
how to create and appreciate
healthy meals. Her new book
contains more than 75 organic
recipes, easy enough for kids
to make themselves. Dishes
including Pumpkin Ravioli and
Breakfast Anytime Pizza, offer
color-coded cooking instructions and show how natural,
locally grown foods can be used
to easily create inexpensive and
delicious meals.
The Antioxidant Counter: A Pocket Guide to the Revolutionary
ORAC Scale for Choosing Healthy Foods
Dr. Mariza Snyder & Dr. Lauren Clum (Ulysses Press, February, 2011)
When it comes to antioxidant vitamin content, all foods aren’t created equal. The Oxygen Radical
Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) scale was developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
to measure the antioxidant content of plant foods. Now, two Bay Area chiropractors, Mariza
Snyder and Lauren Clum, have developed a handy pocket guide to help us understand which
nutrition-loaded foods offer the greatest healing power and how to include more of them in your
diet. Who knew that apples offer five times the antioxidants of bananas?
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july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
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shopping
Summer Sheer
Lightweight woven scarf
features bold geometric
design. A season essential!
$9.80, Forever 21
Doozy of a Druzy
Wondrous rings are unique in
color and form; polished bezel
atop a sterling silver band.
$98, by Bella Ella at Changes
Salon & Day Spa
What’s New
& Hot for Summer
3
Smooth Operator
Fresh Bar
Style and shape your tresses with
Moroccanoil Curl Control Cream.
$32, Thirteen Salon
Luxurious organic soap made
from raw goat milk. Good
enough to eat and gluten free.
$8, Tierra Mia Organics at
Whole Foods
Road Refresher
Keep Fido fresh on road trips
this summer with a non-spill
travel water bowl.
$14.99, by Jolly Pet at
Pet Food Express
Silky Defense
Paraben-free sheer sunscreen
provides UV Defense
SPF 50 protection for all skin types.
$30, by SkinCeuticals at SkinSpirit
American Classic
When it comes to the lazy days of
summer, the Adirondack chair is an icon.
$124, at Target
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July / august 2011
6
2011
BEST
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Day Spa
2011
Massage
2011
BEST
Hair Salon
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East Bay
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Visit our "JewelStories Blog"
at www.jewelsmithnews.blogspot.com
july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
19
COMING ATTRACTIONS l EVENTS l BUSINESS BUZZ
Talk
of the town
Game
On
J
by linda childers
Jenny Martin and her team at Red i studios
in Walnut Creek have designed one of the
hottest new apps for the iPhone or iPad –
“Ellen’s Know or Go.” Based on the popular
segment from Ellen’s television show, the
new Ellen DeGeneres trivia game application features over 600 pop culture themed
trivia questions with seven different question categories, including history, music, TV,
and more. “Ellen does the voiceover for the
game and asks players a trivia question,”
Martin says. “If they answer it correctly, they
stay, but if they answer it wrong, they drop
through the floor.”
Martin, who has designed other educational
games for clients including Sega, Pogo, Maxis
and LeapFrog, says it takes approximately six
months to design a smartphone game application. “It’s a fun game and it’s getting good
reviews from customers.” Martin says. “Ellen’s
Know or Go” game is available for purchase at
the iTunes store.
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july / august 2011
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talk of the town
Gift of Persia
Many cultures have borrowed garden design ideas from
Persia and shared a broad palette of plants for drier
climates. A full-day horticultural seminar at the Gardens
at Heather Farm brings together an impressive panel of
experts who discuss Mediterranean influence on California gardens. A reception with wine and plants follows
the talks at the Ruth Bancroft Garden. Details: July 15,
8:30am-5:30pm, to register, go to gardenconservancy.org.
Picasso
The Masterpieces from the Musée exhibition at San Francisco’s
de Young Museum features more than 100 works by Spanish artist
Pablo Picasso (1881–1973) on loan to the museum while Paris’
world-renowned Musée National Picasso undergoes renovation.
Details: Exhibit runs through October 9, Golden Gate Park, 50
Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr., San Francisco, famsf.org.
Sip & Savor
Every summer, Livermore Valley’s
top wineries and celebrated chefs
team-up to create locally inspired
pairings at Taste of Terroir. Guests
sip and sample, then vote for the
“People’s Choice” award. The evening ends with a decadent dessert
spread paired with Livermore Valley
ports. Details: July 21, 6-9pm, Palm
Event Center, Pleasanton. Tickets
are $75 per person at LVwine.org.
Giving Back
It’s the right thing to do, good for society and a requirement for graduating high school. We’re talking about
‘community service’. In the spirit of volunteerism, save
the date and plan to participate in Walnut Creek’s first
citywide day of giving back — Community Service Day
October 1. Non-profits, schools and government agencies are encouraged to submit volunteer projects for
consideration. Projects must be located in Walnut Creek
and appropriate for a range of ages and abilities. For
more information, go to walnut-creek.org/service.
One City One Book
This summer’s citywide book club selection, "The Mapping of Love and Death” by Jacqueline Winspear,
is the latest mystery in the New York Times bestselling series featuring Maisie Dobbs. The story takes
place in 1932 London and finds investigator Maisie Dobbs embroiled in a long-hidden affair between an
American soldier and an English nurse. Winspear comes to Walnut Creek September 12 for an author's
night at the Lesher Center for the Arts. For a complete listing of One City One Book community events,
go to walnutcreekreads.org.
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Lights, Camera, Concord
The City of Concord becomes a movie set this summer as actor
and stuntman Jeff Mosley begins filming his feature length film
“Chasing Rodriguez.” Using local talent, the film finds four
teenagers competing in a film contest accidentally grabbing footage of a robbery. We caught up with Mosley in his new role as
Producer-Director.
Why film in Concord?
Our goal is to bring film production to Contra Costa County and
help people who want to make films work in the industry they
love. Film production provides jobs for cast and crew as well as
"behind the scenes" vendors like restaurants, hotels, and more.
Do you need extras for the film?
Yes, and the best way for people to follow the journey is to go
to concordmovie.com and sign up for updates that will let them
know when and where we'll be filming. Most of the main roles
have been cast however there is still room for additional actors
in featured or background performer positions. We start filming
August 8. —ER
A Look Back
Sunbathing at Crystal Pool, (Treat & N. Main), circa 1950,
Walnut Creek Historical Society
july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
23
talk of the town
take 5
Tee Up
Tee up for charity at the 1515 Restaurant
Lounge Charity Golf Tournament and
drive the success of this day on the greens
benefitting Hospice of the East Bay, The
Cancer Support Community and the 1515
Annual Turkey Give-Away. Details: August
22, Round Hill Country Club, Alamo, $325/
player, includes food and drinks, for more
information contact: 1515golf@gmail.com.
By Gayle Vassar, City of Walnut Creek
Walnut Creek is in the middle of earthquake
country. Here are five easy things you can
do to make sure you and your family are
ready for the ‘big one.’
1
Water, water everywhere – Two
gallons of water per person per day
(one for drinking, one for cooking and
personal hygiene) for seven days. If there
are two people in your household, that
means 14 gallons.
2
Let there be light – Tape light
sticks behind bedroom headboards,
or put them under each bed, for readily
available light in case the lights are out
when disaster strikes.
3
Step safely – Take a pair of shoes,
put a flashlight inside, and place
under your bed. If disaster strikes in the
middle of the night, you won't have to
fumble in the dark or walk on broken
glass.
4
Family meeting– Set up two places
for your family to meet, one on your
street, in case you have to evacuate your
home quickly, and one a few blocks away
in case emergency strikes when you
are away from the house and can't get
home.
5
Keep in touch – Local phone lines
are likely to be overwhelmed following a disaster, but you can still call out
of the area. Set up an out-of-the-area
contact ahead of time for all family members to phone in case you are separated;
and be sure to program that number into
everyone's phones!
Follow the Walnut Creek Community
Emergency Response Team (CERT) on
Facebook or go to walnut-creek.org/cert.
24
walnut creek magazine
On Broadway
In 1988, art lovers and city leaders made a dream come true for Walnut Creek
when they opened a regional arts center providing entertainment for generations to come. Now 21 years later, the Lesher Center for the Arts boasts over
900 productions and events annually.
Celebrate the arts, entertainment and culture in our community with Diablo
Regional Arts Association at its annual gala and benefit for the Lesher
Center for the Arts with an extravagant evening that includes a gourmet
dinner, dancing, and headliner performance by one of Las Vegas’ most
beloved comedians, Rita Rudner. Details: October 8, tickets are $300
per person, draa.org.
Tastes worth the trip
Bring your passion for locally sourced cuisine to
Wente Vineyards this summer and tour their
herb and vegetable garden with Master Gardener
Diane Doyholuk. Afterward, Executive Chef Eric
Berg shares tips on how to create dishes using
handpicked garden ingredients. Stay for lunch!
Dates: July 12, August 2, September 20, and
October 4. To reserve your spot, go to
wentevineyards.com.
July / august 2011
BEFORE
AFTER
Say Goodbye to Tired,
Weathered Lashes
Get longer, thicker & more beautiful lashes
with Eyelash Extensions.
(925) 932-2242
www.michellehandy.com
Call Michelle Handy, Certified Lash Stylist
at Thirteen, for a consultation.
july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
25
talk of the town
Downtown
Lowdown
It’s an interesting time in Walnut Creek.
The housing market continues to slowly
recover while apartment developments
are transforming the cityscape at a fast
pace. In the continuing architectural
evolution of the city, here are the biggest
residential projects in the works, adding
over a thousand apartments downtown.
Business Buzz
A lofty and expansive 150 unit apartment
complex with 22,000 square feet of retail
space is proposed at 1500 N. California
Boulevard. The multi-use development
will run from the Lesher Center parking
garage on California to Bonanza Street
and wrap around the corner to Locust
Street - bringing with it, the long vacant
California Café down to the ground.
(Scott’s Valley Bank will remain in the new
complex.) A second phase of the project designed and constructed by Laconia
Development, the same group that
brought us 555 YVR, is expected to
wrap from Bonanza onto Locust Street
and include a public plaza. Plus:
The Paragon Apartments
141 N. Civic Drive: 300 units
Facelift Time
North Main Apartments
1960 N. Main Street: 126 units
Look for a growth spurt in the retail landscape too. Six decades ago, Broadway
Plaza was one of the nation’s first open-air malls, forever changing the footprint
– and the focus – of Walnut Creek. Like most of us at 60 years of age, it needs a
facelift. During a series of community meetings, hosted by center owner Macerich,
residents were asked about their visions and expectations for Broadway Plaza, and
what role it should play in the future.
The Village
1500 Newell Avenue: 49 units
Walnut Creek BART
Transit Village: 596 units
Third Avenue Apartments
2618 Baldwin Lane: 48 units
Of course, parking was a hot button issue. Macerich’s plans aren’t on record yet,
so there’s a Neiman Marcus sized bag of questions: Will Broadway Lane be closed?
What happens to the parking garage behind Macy’s and Nordstrom? As negotiations continue, so does the guessing game. Look for answers this fall. — ER
Coming Soon
Put this on your radar for 2012: Amazing news for Anthropologie addicts (you know who you are!) the eclectically chic chain
store will open a Walnut Creek boutique! The stand-alone store will occupy the former Mark Morris Tire building at the north
east corner of Locust Street and Mt. Diablo. Anthropologie is expected to occupy and remodel the existing building offering
7,000 square feet of clothing, accessories and home decor.
26
walnut creek magazine
July / august 2011
Knowledge Experience Service
Ellen Osmundson
Prudential California Realty
Phone: 925-939-7460
Cell: 925-890-4276
Email: Ellen@EllenOsmundson.com
Website:www.EllenOsmundson.com
DRE#: 01075397
English - Mandarin - Cantonese
Foodie News
Kacha Thai Bistro joined the Olympia Place mix on Mt.
Diablo Boulevard with a sleek new restaurant and flavorful cuisine, perfect for the movie crowd. In keeping with
its Berkeley reputation for affordable fresh fish, CU Sushi
Pam Glover
A Life in Art (1924 - 2010)
launched its new Walnut Creek location on N. Locust Street
with sushi and sashimi at 50% off. See you there! Whole
Foods Market opened its Lafayette store with 165 employees and a paved parking lot for them on Deer Hill Road. The
market boasts a big selection of products from local businesses, Kombucha on tap and a big burrito bar. Speaking of
local, the Diablo Valley Farmers’ Market turned two in June
celebrating its’ birthday just in time for the summer harvest;
cherries, peaches, nectarines, apricots, strawberries, organic
vegetables, artichokes, eggs, fresh baked breads, and more.
The Hearst Art Gallery
Museum of Saint Mary’s College
July 10 to September 11
“In The Trees”, Oil on canvas. On loan from the Glover family collection. Photo by Jim Whiteaker
Got Buzz?
Send us an email:
info@walnutcreekmagazine.com.
Iconic coastal, Contra Costa & wine country scenes by influential landscape painter
including rarely seen 1950’s fashion illustrations.
Wednesday – Sunday 11 am ~ 4:30 pm
Adults $4, 18 and under free, Members Free
1928 Saint Mary’s Road, Moraga • (925) 631-4379
www.hearstartgallery.org
july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
27
talk of the town
The Influx
of Reflexology
You can put a good foot forward and put your
foot in your mouth. Right now the trend is foot
reflexology, putting your foot in a stranger’s hands.
by elizabeth rusiecki
F
From Main Street to Rossmoor, you can get your feet
massaged in any number of storefronts and strip malls. Take
a walk down Locust Street and count the signs. Within just a
few hundred yards of each other four businesses offer foot
reflexology and two of the studios are a couple storefronts
apart. Throw in a spot on Cypress Street and that makes five
‘spas’ within one block.
What’s all the fuss with the feet?
Reflexology is the practice of applying pressure to ‘zones’ of
the feet utilizing specific thumb, finger and hand techniques
and ultimately, ‘clearing pathways to energy.’ Reflexology
contends that points on the outside of our bodies — head,
hands and feet — correspond with our insides— organs,
bones and systems. The ancient Egyptians are credited as
the first ones with their feet in the reflexology door.
Studies have shown it improves blood flow, reduces chronic
pain, benefits mental health and reduces stress. And it’s inexpensive. One-hour sessions start as low as $25 with addon 15 minute body massage treatments for an additional
$10. And reflexology is a great pick-me-up.
Stepping Out
At Creek Side Salon, a one-hour session costs $25. Amid
the piped in bird chirps, a therapist covers your chest with a
white terrycloth towel as you recline and soak your tootsies
28
walnut creek magazine
July / august 2011
in a wooden basin of hot water. Over the next 45 minutes
you’ll lose track of your feet and lower legs to an amazing
set of powerful hands. Your toes are spread, flicked and
plucked while your soles melt into perfect, fleshy circles.
Stand warned; you might just love it.
New Footholds
According to Sheri Lund at the WC Business License Division, there are 240 active business licenses issued to massage establishments and/or spas in Walnut Creek. Based on
the city’s municipal code, there is no specific classification
for reflexology. Massage establishments must obtain the
same type of business license as any other service or retail
type business and obtain a massage permit from the police
department.
Some of the studios are dark and draped. Some are cozily
lit with silk shades and Shoji screens. Some signs are hand
scrawled, some are glossy. But all of them have a price list
right outside the door, so whatever your reflexology mix,
price is never a surprise.
Life’s a Splash at
Byron Park!
Experience retirement living at its finest. Whether you are
exploring independent or enhanced living options, Byron
Park offers a range of invigorating activities and care
services that will make you feel right at home. Personalized
comfort, security, and luxury. That’s life at Byron Park.
join uS foR A TouR
And A fRee LunCh!
Call (925) 937-1700 to
reserve your place today.
Byron Park Retirement Community | 1700 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek | 925.937.1700 | www.byronpark.com
RCFE Lic. #071440784.
1106001-BPK-WCMag-0701-7.25x4.6875.indd 1
6/17/11 10:23 AM
july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
29
talk of the town
The City
Revealed
by Elizabeth rusiecki
Q: Is there something
fishy in Walnut Creek?
Heather Farm Park
A: Long ago, before flood control
improvements, our city’s creeks were
coveted fishing holes. Brian Murphy,
who works in the city engineering
department, grew up here and says as
steelhead made their spawning runs
from the ocean, residents headed to
the creek with their poles. But since
the installation of drop structures half
a century ago, the trout can’t make the
jump. Mostly minnows, crayfish and
happy ducks call the creek home now.
If you’re feeling lucky, it's legal to fish
the creek within city limits. According
to Nancy Dollard, Supervising Ranger
for Open Space, California Fish and
Game rules still apply: Residents 16
and up must have a license to “take
fish, mollusks, crustaceans, invertebrates, amphibians or reptiles in inland
or ocean waters.”
Q: How can I avoid getting
skunked this summer?
A: “Your best bet is to seal off the
bottom of backyard fences and gates,
and keep dog food inside or in a
closed container to prevent skunks
from digging their way in for dinner,”
says Susan Heckly, Wildlife Rehabilitation Director at the Lindsay Wildlife
Museum.
Walnut Creek’s Striped Skunks are
great predators but rotten climbers.
Our housecat-sized native skunk is
short, wide, and strictly nocturnal.
Heather Farm Park is your best bet for
public casting. Just make sure your
drop line is in the concrete front pond,
where bass, bluegill, trout and catfish
are legal catches. Steer clear of the
rear lake, which is reserved for wildlife,
and you’ll also steer clear of protectors
like Dollard, who says she’s plucked far
too much fishing line from its shores.
30
walnut creek magazine
July / august 2011
They’re not afraid of anything —
fending off mountain lions and suburbanites alike with a lift of a tail. “Don’t
shoo a skunk away for risk of infuriating it. Apologize for intruding and
back away,” Heckly says.
If Fido gets skunk-bombed, this nontoxic cocktail neutralizes the smell:
Combine one pint hydrogen peroxide,
¼ cup baking soda and one teaspoon
of dish soap. Rub it into your pup’s fur
and leave it there as long as possible.
The mixture must be made fresh, and
should be tripled for large dogs. (Hint:
you may need a second application
and some swear the concoction only
works with Dawn dish soap.) Heckly
says a potpourri of rosemary and boiling water on the stove reduces indoor
skunk stench. And if your house or
porch is sprayed, a bleach and water
bath should do the trick.
“Skunks are incredible little predators,
vital to our ecosystem. Without them,
we’d be overrun with mice and gophers. They have their place. They’re a
beneficial animal,” she says. “Unless it
gets your dog.”
Q: Who do we call for a Fourth of July
fire engine parade?
A:
It’s the highlight of the neighborhood Fourth of July
picnic when the Contra Costa County fire engine truck
pulls up. Firefighters help little ones hold the hose as their
friends dance in the spray. For them, it’s a few minutes to
cool off before another call. But for the kids, it’s the parade
they remember, trailing the rig down the street on crepepapered bikes, trikes and scooters.
“As long as they can remember, they’ve been doing the
parades,” says Doris Haley, Tour Coordinator for the Contra
Costa Fire Department. Around mid May, Haley starts
receiving calls to schedule the Independence Day processions. If your neighborhood wants to get on the block party
parade list for 2012, plan ahead and call the CCCFPD at
(925) 941-3670.
Do you have a nagging question about our city
that you want answered? Post it on the Walnut
Creek Magazine Facebook Page or send us an
email: info@walnutcreekmagazine.com.
If we can’t answer it, we’ll find an expert who can.
SUMMER FUN
starts at the Basement
RENTALS
ONE EXTRA ONE
DAY DAY WEEK
TENTS
2-Person
3-Person
$15
$15
Family 4 Person $15
Family 6 Person $15
SLEEPING BAGS
CAMPING
@
TRI WETSUIT
Men’s
Women’s
Kids’
SLEEPING PADS
Traditional
$7
$7
$7
$7
$50
$50
$50
$50
$15 $7 $50
$15 $7 $50
$15 $7 $50
$6 $3 $20
PACKS
Men’s 60 or 70 $15 $7 $50
Women’s 60 $15 $7 $50
Kids’
$10 $5 $30
STOVES
Backpacking
$6 $3 $20
$3 $20
2-Burner Camp $6
TENNIS
OTHER GEAR
Bear Canisters $6 $3 $20
Trekking Poles $6 $3 $20
Apparel.
Footwear. Gear.
SB WALNUT CREEK
1881 Ygnacio Valley Rd.
An entire purchase. Not
combinable. One per customer.
Does not apply to tickets.
EXP: 8/31/11
REG: N/R 77PTEN
(925) 941-6100
july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
31
Photography by Jim Fidelibus
Walnut Creek Mayor's Cup Boundary Oak Golf Course
1
2
3
4
5
7
6
8
Who’s Who
1. Gary Skrel, Rich Ergo, Art Yeend, Dave Bradley 2. Gary Darling, Dave Requa, Ken Sinclair, Chris Davenport
3. Sue Rainey 4. Mort Hjortsvang, Terry Camp, Sterling Fairholm, Rich Miller 5. Jose Camacho and Brian Walsh,
Ruth’s Chris 6. Domenic Mazza, Long Drive Champion 7. Rob Cherep, Casa Belicoso 8. Pete Torrey, Eric
Oberbruner, Zack Torrey
7
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walnut creek magazine
July / august 2011
8
explore
D i s Cov e r
H Av e F u n !
This summer, bring your young naturalist to meet
live animals and explore our natural world. You’ll discover fun and enriching classes, workshops,
camps and family programs all summer long.
Go to www.wildlife-museum.org to learn more.
1 93 1 First Av e n ue
WA l n u t C r e e k
9 2 5 - 9 3 5 -1 9 7 8
Lindsay-Kids-Quarter-WCMag.indd 1
july / august 2011
5/25/11 3:49 PM
walnut creek magazine
33
Photography by shelly waldman
Animals on Broadway
1
2
4
5
8
3
6
9
10
Who’s Who
1. Bobbe Bartlett, Dinah McFarlane and Lynn Takahashi from ARF 2. Malibu, an
Australian Shepherd 3. Rescue dog, Cali, with owner Dana Gold 4. Chibi, a Pomeranian
5. Luca, an Airedale Terrier, with owner Jenna 6. Barron the Bichon with owner Lucy Bullo
7. Patty Pestano from Children’s Hospital WC with Pug Paco 8. Pitt Bulls, JD and Kona
with owner Mike 9. Polo, a Golden Retriever 10. Daiseymae, an English bulldog
7
34
walnut creek magazine
July / august 2011
» m o r n i n g s W i m
in the p o o l
» Y o g a C l a s s
r e n a i s s a n C e C l u B s p o r t . . .
Level 99
1921 Denim
Unique Jewelry
and Accessories
AStars tops
Fresh Laundry tops
Tart
Splendid
Dollimou
Vintage Revolution
Pursue Tees
Elan
» l u n C h on the
C - B l u e pat i o
Wed. - Fri. 11am - 6pm
Sat. 11am - 5pm
Sun. 12pm - 4pm
my weekend
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BreakFast|lunCh|dinner
sundaYBrunCh|BanQuets
Catering|speCialevents
1509 Cypress Street
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
925-937-1819
C-Bluereservations:(925)938-8700
2805Jonesroad|WalnutCreek,Ca94597
renaissanCeCluBsport.Com
www.fancypantsonline.com
july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
35
Photography by Kendal Simonse
Big Tech, Tiny Hands
A
by Elizabeth rusiecki
At the Apple Store, a seven-year-old breaks into a tantrum
when Daddy upgrades her old iTouch. In Target, a strollerstrapped toddler takes in a movie while Mommy shops, riveted
by the iTouch in his lap. All over Walnut Creek, even the littlest
of fingers dance across touch screens.
Welcome to the App Generation. Thanks to games and gizmos dominating the smart phone and tablet market, Apples,
Blackberry’s and Droids are becoming our kids’ best friends.
Does technology make them smarter? The debate continues as
dozens of school districts across the country invest in technology for students. (Auburn, Maine set aside $200,000 to equip
nearly 300 kindergarteners with iPad 2s this fall.)
ABCs and 1, 2, 3s
Paige is 7 years old and headed for 2nd grade. At the age of
2, she learned the alphabet on an old PC. Now, she has a Mac
in her bedroom. “She uses a computer every day. We do her
math and she did her own science fair research,” says her mom,
Donna Chivers. Paige also has an iPhone (but no cell service),
and she and her little brother, Callen, 4, have their own iPods.
36
walnut creek magazine
July / august 2011
Paige and Callen are computer geeks by osmosis. She learned
by watching Mom and Dad (a nuclear scientist at Berkeley); he
learned by watching his sister. “Kids are touchy. They touch the
screen and something happens, “says Chivers. Callen is drawn
to TinkerBox, a physics puzzle game where he constructs machines with components. He likes “Angry Birds” (the winged
versus egg-stealing swine) and Battle Dots, too. While her kids
are among this new wired and app happy generation, Chivers
says their computer use is more for education than entertainment. After all, they are just kids. “Paige still likes to go outside
and dig for worms.”
EduTainment
Walkabout Studios is an “edutainment” company based in Walnut Creek. Its “Lost Zoo” iTunes app is designed for two to six
year olds and allows kids to help “Jungle Jim” locate and rescue
escaped exotic animals. “Gone are the days of blocks and letter
magnets,” says Walkabout cofounder Vince Lane. “Kids today
have the potential to learn at their fingertips. We’re creating an
environment where kids can really lose themselves, where they’re
learning, problem solving, and being creative at the same time,”
he adds. Since the release of “Lost Zoo,” other edutainment
and even ebook companies are lining up at the door.
In the Classroom
At Seven Hills School, preschool is a “technology free” zone
but every kindergarten through 8th grade classroom sports
laptops. Renee Ramig, Director of Technology, says technology
supports teaching and aids students in researching and writing
reports. All lower grade classrooms boast interactive “Smart
Boards,” and the facility hopes to add iPads in several grades
when classes resume in August.
Ramig says the “instant on” capability of iPads saves precious curriculum minutes typically chewed up when launching
laptops. The price point also allows two tablets for the price of
one laptop. She adds iPads provide students a kinesthetic and
auditory connection to information, basically scaffolding their
learning. “Being able to have technology allows you to meet
a person where they are and give them the tools to help them
get up to where we want them to be,” she says.
Wired Minds
Walnut Creek resident Richard Freed, PhD, says he’s wary of
“the push to wire kids up.” A private practitioner and a national
speaker on the topic, he describes young brains as “plastic and
moldable.” Currently, he’s penning a book on digital media and
its effects on children and their behavior.
“We’re really conducting a big experiment on this generation of
kids,” he says. He urges schools to look objectively at the funding behind research that touts technology in the classroom and
weigh the balance of computers versus teachers. At home, he
cautions new evidence shows electronic media taking the place
of vital family ties. “I think we really need to understand kids’
brains are different than adult brains,” he says, adding children
are innately wired for exposure to their parents. “The most important computer a young child needs is their parents’ brain.”
Freed adds studies show 85% of a child’s computer time is
entertainment. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, kids now spend more than seven hours per day using
televisions, computers, phones and other electronic devices for
entertainment. A recent Consumer Reports study shows 7.5
million children under the age of 13 fudging their ages to land
a Facebook profile. The argument over whether or not technology is healthy in the hands of our children may be fairly new,
but the controversy seems here to stay.
App Happiness
Pocket Frogs:
This free app makes
you top toad of your
own frog nursery,
where you can collect
and breed over 15,000
unique frogs and earn
rewards. Watch your
eggs hatch, keep ‘em
or trade ‘em with
friends. Lush graphics,
no wireless needed
to play. iPhone, iPod
Touch and iPad compatible. Ages 4 and
up, at iTunes.
iWriteWords:
Touted by the New
York Times as a top
app, children learn
handwriting by dragging Mr. Crab in
sequence. Primary
colors and scrawled
graphics appeal to little
ones as they learn their
numbers, and upper
and lowercase letters.
iPhone, iPod Touch and
iPad compatible. Ages
4 and up, $2.99
at iTunes.
JellyCar 3:
Parenting Magazine
placed this hip game
at the top of the heap.
Kids race through 50
levels of squishy play,
customizing their gelatinous jalopies down to
the hubcaps and engine
sounds. They can chase
the Ghost Car, save races for replay, and climb
walls with Sticky Tires.
iPhone, iPod Touch and
iPad compatible. Ages
4 and up, .99 at iTunes.
Kids Shape Puzzle:
Kids slide and snap
puzzle pieces into place
with this game for
preschoolers that aids
in shape recognition
and spatial concepts. A
free version of the game
allows parents to test it
out guilt-free. $2.99 at
market.android.com.
july / august 2011
Five Little Monkeys:
Toddlers learn to
count with primates
that bounce one by
one into Mama’s
arms. Kids can choose
from Country, Rock
and Pop versions of
the classic song;
parents will be absolutely bananas by
the time Monkey
Number Three hits
the floor. .99 at
market.android.com.
walnut creek magazine
37
July Calendar
July 4
July 9 - 17
Concert in Civic Park
Walnut Creek Concert
Band
La Traviata
Festival Opera
Giuseppe Verdi’s tale of
doomed love in 1840’s Paris.
Lesher Center for the Arts
1601 Civic Dr., WC
lesherartscenter.org
Bring your blanket and picnic
supper for a fun evening at
this free event.
6:00pm, Downtown Walnut
Creek
July 6-September 4
July 7
Outlandish: Contemporary
Depictions of Nature
Bedford Gallery
Cool Sounds
of Summer Jazz
Chieli Minucci
Exhibit looks at landscape
from multiple media.
1601 Civic Drive, WC
bedfordgallery.org
Free concert,
Broadway Plaza
6:30-8:00pm,
Stanford’s Parking Lot
broadwayplaza.com
July 14
July 10-September 11
Cool Sounds of Summer
Jazz
Jeff Kashiwa
Pam Glover
A Life in Art
Hearst Art Gallery,
Saint Mary’s College
Wed - Sunday, 11am-4:30pm
hearstartgallery.org
Free concert, Broadway Plaza
6:30-8:00pm,
Stanford’s Parking Lot
broadwayplaza.com
July 16
Backpacking 101
Sports Basement
Lions and Tigers and BEARS,
OH MY! Get fit to backpack,
learn how to ward off bears.
Class geared to beginners.
10:30- 12:30, 1881 Ygnacio
Valley Rd., WC
July 21
Cool Sounds of
Summer Jazz
Brenda Russell
Free concert, Broadway Plaza
6:30-8:00pm,
Stanford’s Parking Lot
broadwayplaza.com
38
38
walnut
walnut creek
creek magazine
magazine
may
July // june
august
20112011
July 22
Navigating Changes
of Life
John Muir Women’s
Health Center
Learn to become self-sufficient
and navigate change as you
age. 9:30am-11:00am,
1656 N. California Blvd., WC
johnmuirhealth.com/classes.
Walnut Creek’s Oldest Restaurant
World Famous Barbecue Spareribs & Chicken since 1958
All Meats Smoked on the Premises
Fresh Pies Made Daily
S E RV I N G
VALUE MEALS TO GO:
Breakfast, Lunch
& Dinner
Feed 4-6 people
with our
Sun.-Thurs. 6 am-9:45 pm
Family Feast at $38.99
Fri.-Sat. 6 am-10:45 pm
1495 South Main Street, Walnut Creek
(925) 935-7450
SHOP. DONATE.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE
FIGHT AGAINST CANCER.
july 2
“Made in U.S.A.” Event
july 23
“Blast From the Past”
Retro & Vintage Event
AuGuST 12–13
Semi-Annual Event
50% off everything
AuGuST 20
“Only the Best” Event
Discovery Shop Walnut Creek
cancer.org/discovery
1538 Locust Street 925.944.1991
1.800.227.2345
July
/ august
may
/ june 2011
walnut creek magazine
39
August Calendar
August 6
August 11 – 14
Customer Appreciation
Plant Sale
Suessical Jr.
Poison Apple Productions
Fun-filled family entertainment written and directed
by young people.
Lesher Center for the Arts
1601 Civic Dr., WC
943-SHOW
Ruth Bancroft Garden
Special prices on your
dry climate favorites!
10am-2pm,
Ruth Bancroft Garden
1552 Bancroft Road, WC
ruthbancroftgarden.org
August 14
20th Annual Rubber
Ducky Derby
A Benefit for Children’s
Hospital Oakland
Waterworld California
Concord Park
Opens at 10:30 am
Derby begins at 5 pm
www.rubberduckyderby.org
August 13-14
August, 23
Back to School Lunches
Contra Costa County
Swim Meet
John Muir Women's
Health Center
Nutritionist Kathy Napoli
teaches you how to make
healthy food for your kids
this fall. 6:30-8:30pm,
1656 N. California
johnmuirhealth.com
Top swimmers from teams
all over the county
compete at this event.
Acalanes High School,
Lafayette
Save the date:
September 10
Save the date:
September 24
Moonlight on the
Mountain
Eleventh Annual
Wellness Gala
Gathering Hope
A Benefit for Save Mt. Diablo
Elegant evening on the
mountain under the rising
moon next to China Wall.
savemountdiablo.org
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creekmagazine
magazine
walnut creek
creek
walnut
magazine
Cancer Support Community
Diablo Country Club
For info & sponsorship:
cancersupportcommunity.net
may / june
2011
NOVEMBer
/ DECEMber
2010
march
/ april
2011
Memories
C r e at e
that l ast a lifetime.
“One of the most recommended
photographers in the Greater Bay Area.”
• Weddings worldwide
• Family & Childrens’ Portraits
• Events & Headshots
JAMES
BRIAN
FIDELIBUS
p h o t o g r a p h e r
1727 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek •
925.934.4455
• www.jamesbrian.com
july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
41
on stage | the lively arts
by Sally Hogarty
{ musical }
A.C.T.'s world premiere musical, Tales of the City, unleashes a celebration of the spirit that defines San Francisco. Set on the bustling
streets in the 1970s with neon lights and disco music, a wide-eyed
Midwestern girl finds a new home—and creates a new kind of family—with the characters at 28 Barbary Lane. Details: Through July
10, American Conservatory Theatre, 415 Geary Street, San Francisco, (415) 749-2228, act-sf.org.
{ comedy }
{ opera }
Let Me Down Easy
Festival Opera heats up the
Lesher Center with Giuseppe
Verdi’s tragic opera La Traviata
featuring Rebecca Davis as the
famous courtesan Violetta. The
company continues with Frank
Loesser’s musical comedy The
Most Happy Fella in August.
Details: Lesher Center for the
Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut
Creek. For dates and show
times: (925) 943-SHOW or
lesherartscenter.org.
Anna Deavere Smith’s blazing hot one-woman show
continues its extended run at Berkeley Rep. The star
of television’s The West Wing and “Nurse Jackie”
does not disappoint in her stunning story about
vulnerability and resilience. As NBC’s “Today Show”
raves, “Run – do not walk – to see this play!” Details:
Through July 10, Berkeley Rep, 2015 Addison St.,
Berkeley, (510) 647-2949, berkeleyrep.org.
{ comedy }
It’s all about good intentions gone awry in Send Me No Flowers
by the Orinda Starlight Players. A hopeless hypochondriac mistakes
another patient’s terminal illness for his own and sets about finding
a new husband for his wife only for the wife to think he is covering
up an extramarital affair. A fun romantic romp that might have the
good-intended husband wishing he had that terminal illness afterall! Details: July 15 – August 6, Orinda Community Center Park, 28
Orinda Way, Orinda, (925) 253-1191, orsvp.org.
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July / august 2011
{ drama }
{ musical }
The legendary Joan Baez stars in Maestro’s Enchantement at Teatro Zinzanni’s glamorous Speigeltent. An enchanting evening of trickery and illusion,
dreams and divas, music and merriment
await guests in this elaborate adventure
of entertainment and dining. Details:
Through October 9 (Through July 31
with Joan Baez), Pier 29, San Francisco,
(415) 438-2668, love.zinzanni.org.
{ magic }
One of the youngest ringmasters for
Ringling Brothers Circus, Master Magician Alex Ramon brings his mesmerizing
magic to the East Bay with feats of wonder that will amaze audiences. Details:
July 9- July 10, Lesher Center for the
Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek, (925)
943-SHOW, lesherartscenter.org.
{ comedy }
Meet five eccentric Southern women who
renew their high school friendships every
year in Onstage Theatre’s production of
The Dixie Swim Club. Details: August
19 – September 11, Lesher Center for the
Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek, (925)
943-SHOW, lesherartscenter.org.
Inspired by Shakespeare’s The Two
Gentlemen of Verona, California
Shakespeare Theater performs the
world premiere of The Verona Project
by Amanda Dehnert filled with original
music sung by the cast in a comedy
that fuses theater with a rock concert.
In August, Cal Shakes switches to
George Bernard Shaw with Candida
directed by Jonathan Moscone.
Details: July 6 – 31 (The Verona
Project) August 10 – September 4
(Candida), Bruns Amphitheater, 100
Gateway Blvd., Orinda, (510) 548-9666,
calshakes.org.
{ musical }
{ comedy }
The stars of tomorrow sing and dance
their way into your heart in Fiddler on
the Roof. Presented by Diablo Theatre
Company’s Stars 2000 teen theater, the
show features popular tunes from Broadway including “If I Were a Rich Man,”
“Matchmaker,” “Tradition” and more.
Details: July 22 – 31, San Ramon Valley
High School Performing Arts Center, 501
Danville Boulevard, Danville, (925) 3247359 or diablotheatre.org.
It can’t get much hotter this summer
than Shotgun Players production of
The Road to Hades. Bay Area comedian and clown Jeff Raz from Cirque
du Soleil fame, puts on the big shoes
of Aristophanes, in this silly, exciting
comedy of errors performed under the
stars. Details: July 30 – September 11,
John Hinkel Park, Southampton Ave.,
Berkeley, (510) 841-6500,
shotgunplayers.org.
July / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
43
Summer
Looking for ways to fill your gloriously long summer days?
Our summer fun guide features a bounty of things to do in
the Bay Area—including beaches, hikes, water parks, dining al
fresco and concerts. It’s all about good times. Dive in.
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July / august 2011
fun
in the bay area
july / august 2011
By Peggy Spear
Linda Childers
Elizabeth Rusiecki
walnut creek magazine
45
Photography by Clint Graves
summer fun
Surf and Turf
Few states, offer the beauty and diversity of California with 1,100 coastal miles of rugged rocks, sand and surf.
Even if our seaside summers are shrouded in fog, some of the nation’s most scenic, sandy playgrounds are
within a short drive of home. Take a look at some of our favorites.
A Long and Winding Road
If you think getting to Stinson Beach is hard these days,
imagine what it was like after the 1906 earthquake and
30 years before the Golden Gate Bridge opened. It
makes those hairpin curves on Highway 1 easier to handle, right? This quaint beach town on the Marin County
Coast is a popular day trip for eager beach-goers from
all over the Bay Area who long for some surf on our turf.
Three and half miles of sandy beach await swimmers,
surfers, and sunbathers, and a 51-acre park adjacent to
the beach is perfect for a picnic. Located on Highway 1,
take 101 to Tiburon, then head west, following the signs
to Highway 1 and Stinson, stinsonbeachonline.com.
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A Royal Good Time
You have to love a beach where the most popular activity
is a sand castle building contest. Although this year’s sandy
architecture contest at Crown Memorial State Beach in
Alameda was rained out, it’s fitting that this sort of fun is
still enjoyed at what used to be known as the "Coney Island of the West." While the carnival rides and prize fights
are long gone, in recent years the beach has regained its
popularity as one of the best warm weather destinations
in the East Bay. Eighth Street and Otis Drive in Alameda,
ebparks.org.
Seal the Deal
About an hour and half southwest of Walnut Creek, Año
Nuevo State Park, on the San Mateo coastline, is one of
the most unique nature preserves in the state. Not only
does it protect sensitive sea life and beach fauna, but it’s
also home to some of the rowdiest locals north of Santa
Cruz: the northern elephant seal. As the largest mainlandbreeding colony in the world for these big guys, Año Nuevo
has attracted more and more curious onlookers over the
years. During the summer months, the seals return to molt,
and special permits are required for viewing. But it’s worth
it. The Reserve is located on Highway 1 between Santa Cruz
and Half Moon Bay, parks.ca.gov.
Decked Out
Baker Beach in San Francisco lies
on the western shoreline of the
Presidio, with views that span the
Marin headlands and the Golden
Gate Bridge. It’s popular for
weddings, celebrations and
sunbathing—when the foggy
San Francisco summers allow it.
But even if you are decked out in
winter clothes, the sheer beauty
Heavenly Views
of the mile-long beach—part
If you’ve never been to Angel Island, it’s time to go. The San Francisco Bay’s
most famous island—the one that isn’t a prison—is a treat for all ages. The ferry
ride alone is worth the trip, but the island itself is full of history, beauty and
wonderful treks. More serious hikers can hoof it to the top of Mt. Livermore,
the island's highest point, with its spectacular panoramic views of the entire Bay
Area. Others can enjoy the paved Perimeter Road around the island. Be sure to
take binoculars and cameras for views of all five bridges, the quaint Marin bayside communities, and the striking skyline of San Francisco. Note: On weekends
live bands perform at the Cove Café & Cantina, so bring your dancing shoes
and stay for the oysters and beer. For information, go to www.angelisland.com.
of Golden Gate National Parks
Conservancy— makes it one of
the most enjoyable days at the
beach in the Bay Area. Battery
Chamberlin Road, Presidio of San
Francisco, parksconservancy.org.
July / august 2011
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47
J
U
S T
Bored yet? Once kids get into the rhythm
of summer—sleep, swim team and video games—
summer takes on a monotonous tone,
and by early July it’s time for new adventures.
Here are some great ways to keep your kids
busy this summer.
kidding
Saddle Up
Go on a Safari
Get strong in the saddle with riding
lessons and kids’ day camps at Las
Trampas Stables. This family operated facility, owned by the East Bay
Regional Park District, offers birthday parties and trail rides amidst
the beautiful backdrop of Bollinger
Canyon. A trusted stable of horses,
chickens, goats and a pot bellied
pig make this cool summer spot well
worth the gallop. For more information, go to lastrampasstables.com.
Take an African safari without ever
leaving the Bay Area— Safari West —a
400-acre wildlife preserve in Santa Rosa
offers jeep tours where your family can
get up close and personal with over 800
exotic mammals and birds including
rhinos, giraffes and more. 3115 Porter
Creek Road, Santa Rosa. (707) 579-2551,
safariwest.com.
Make a Splash
Nothing beats the heat like a
day at the water park where our
100-degree summer days slip away.
Waterworld California, in Concord,
offers the largest splash of rides and
attractions in Northern California,
including the Tornado, a “six-story
funnel of wet and wild excitement”
that swirls riders 75 feet in the air.
A wave pool, lazy river, and slides
for every age and heart condition, means there’s something for
everyone. Rent a cabana for $75
on the weekdays and you’ve got it
made in the shade.1950 Waterworld
Parkway, Concord.
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July / august 2011
Solano Drive-In
Diggin’ the Drive-In
It was 70 years ago when West Wind Drive-ins opened its chain of Auto Movies in Vallejo, setting in gear one of the most
enduring entertainment traditions of the past century: the drive-in movie. Luckily for us, the tradition continues at the Solano
Drive-in where two screens show double features of new releases. Dolby sound erases the tinny ‘squak’ boxes of yesteryear,
but other than that the fun is the same. Check the website for coupons and special promotions. 1611 Solano Way, Concord,
westwinddriveins.com.
Magical Festival
Taiko drummers, face painters, dancers
and puppeteers bring magic and music to
Walnut Creek during Chevron Family
Theatre Festival. Geared for young audiences, this fun-filled day of affordable
world-class family entertainment includes
performances by Peter Gros of “Animal
Planet,” puppeteer Leslie Carrara from
“Sesame Street,” and Fantasy Forum’s
production of “The Crimson Pirate.” July
30, 10am-4pm, Lesher Center for the Arts,
1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. For a complete schedule, go to lesherartscenter.org
july / august 2011
Smarty Pants
Not just teachers shop at Lakeshore Learning. Amid the stickers
and decorative classroom borders
are toys that are as entertaining
as they are instructive. A feedthe-monkey game has oversize
tweezers and tiny bananas to help
develop motor skills (and create future surgeons!) A soft cloth
apron has removable internal
organs. Everything is neatly
organized into categories:
Science, Math and Language.
lakeshorelearning.com.
walnut creek magazine
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summer fun
Duck Indoors
Moon Stalkers
Looking for a little late night adventure with your kids? With plenty
of gentle terrain, the East Bay Open Space will captivate even
the most reluctant little hikers. Take to the trails with Park Rangers
on night hikes this summer. Play ‘Moon Jeopardy’ and partake in
nightfall activities while you explore the world of darkness in the local hills. Bring binoculars and a flashlight. Dates: June 15-Sugarloaf,
July 4-Lime Ridge, (watch the fireworks), July 15-Shell Ridge and
August 6-Acalanes Preserve. All hikes begin at 8:30pm.Reservations
required, contact Ranger Weidman at (925) 943-5899 x 2665.
Play Ball
Watch the Oakland A’s take on the
Los Angeles Angels on July 15 and
bring your pooch along for Dog Day
at the Park. The pre-game “pup
rally” kicks off at 5:30pm followed by
a “pooch parade” around the warming track. Game time 7:05pm. Online
registration is required by July 11, go
to oaklandathletics.com.
For those long lazy days (and nights) when the heat
gets too much, duck indoors for some fantastical
fun. First stop: Ghost Golf of Concord, where it’s
Halloween year round. Eat pizza in a coffin, and
play mini golf in a graveyard. This unique spin of
an old favorite—putt-putt golf—is to die for. Later:
Grab your friends and start a dodge ball team at
Sky High Sports. Finally: Whatever you call it—
glow, cosmic, madness—bowling under flashing
lights and music videos is one of the most popular
variations on this All American pastime to come
down the lanes. Three local bowling alleys—Diablo
Lanes, Clayton Bowl and Danville Bowl—feature
these frenetic and fun escapades. Details at:
ghostgolfconcord.com, skyhighjump.com,
diablolanes.com, claytonvalleybowl.com,
danvillebowl.com.
Clean for a Cause
Bring your best friend to any Bay Area Pet Food
Express store for the annual Cover Your Canine
fundraiser on July 31 to August 1 which provides
protective vests, first aid kits and patrol car heat
sensors to working K9 units. Walnut Creek store:
1388 S. California Blvd.
Cook like Contessa
Do your children insist on sharing the cooking? Take the next step in
their culinary training at Chow Bella cooking camp where growing
gourmets ages 7 and older learn everything from how to make corn
tortillas from scratch, to how to blanch peaches and create delicious
pie. The one week sessions teach kids the joy of sharing food along
with basic skills they need to navigate the kitchen. 584 Glenside
Drive, Lafayette, chowbellakids.net.
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march / april 2011
Outside Lands
Let the Music Play
Our warm summer nights are tailor made for outdoor concerts. Here we shine a light on some of our
top concert picks and venues for hot summer nights.
Slightly Stoopid at the Greek
The Greek
Set in a lush, tree-enclosed
canyon, Berkeley’s Greek
Theatre overlooks the
San Francisco Bay guests
with views of The Golden
Gate and Bay Bridges.
Performances to put on your
calendar include Slightly
Stoopid (7/29) with special
guests Don Carlos and Karl
Denson, Ray LaMontagne
and The Pariah Dogs (9/9)
and Fleet Foxes (9/10). Hearst
& Gayley in Berkeley. For
tickets, or go to
anotherplanetentertainment.com.
Sleep Train Pavilion
Wente
Sleep Train
Pavilion
outside
lands
Pack a gourmet picnic for
the lawn or splurge on VIP
box seats for the ultimate
experience. VIP guests enjoy
private club access, exclusive
parking and premium food
and beverage service at your
seats. Sleep Train’s summer
line-up includes: Dolly Parton
(7/24),Maroon Five/Train
(9/15), Santana/George Lopez
(9/25), Journey/Foreigner
(10/5). 2000 Kirker Pass Road,
Concord. For tickets, go to
livenation.com.
Think Woodstock on a
much smaller scale. Outside
Lands is a fusion of music,
food, wine and art. This
three day festival in San
Francisco’s majestic Golden
Gate Park attracts top notch
performers on solar-powered
stages. Headliners this year
include Muse, Phish, Girl
Talk, John Fogerty and Artic
Monkeys. Details: August 1214, Golden Gate Park, San
Francisco. For tickets, go to
sfoutsidelands.com.
july / august 2011
WENTE
World-class music, fine
wine, exceptional food and
breathtaking scenery are
a winning combination at
Wente Vineyard concerts.
The Livermore Valley comes
alive with performances by:
Chris Isaak (7/21), Doobie
Brothers (8/3), Kenny G &
Michael Bolton (8/30), Tears
for Fears (9/8) and Diana
Ross (9/14). 5050 Arroyo
Rd., Livermore Valley. For
tickets, go to
wentevineyards.com.
walnut creek magazine
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summer fun
Al
Dining
fresco
Whether it’s a stylish culinary experience or a slice
of pizza, everything tastes better al fresco.
When blue skies and warm evenings stretch out
before us, patio dining in downtown
Walnut Creek comes to mind.
An Open Door
Walnut Creek is no stranger to unique Asian restaurants, but The
Door Restaurant stands out with its fusion cuisine that combines
the styles of China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Viet Nam and
Singapore together with a stylish design that is a feast for the senses.
Eye-popping innovations such as sumptuous seared scallops atop
coconut-rice cakes are all the sassier when served on a lush spacious
outdoor patio that overlooks the creek.
1448 South Main Street, (925)930-8088, thedoorrestaurant.com.
Livin’ it up on Locust Street
With its culinary charm and congenial service, Lark Creek has always
been one of the city’s favorite eateries. But the real appeal in summer
is people-watching from its sidewalk patio: locals in their linen suits,
hipsters in flip flops and everything in between. Don’t miss the Cobb
salad or Chef Wall’s “skinny salmon” with an ice cold freshly squeezed
lemonade. 1360 Locust Street, (925)256-1234,larkcreek.com.
Sharing the sidewalk, its new neighbor, Tender Greens, serves farm
fresh, California grown meat and produce in an airy, cheery environment—including a patio dining area. We like it best for big salads –
chipotle barbecue chicken or tuna nicoise — at lunch.
1352 Locust Street, (925) 937-5100, tendergreensfood.com.
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July / august 2011
Burgers, Baja and Berries
The intersection of S. California Boulevard and Olympic now
touts a fun outdoor dining scene with The Habit Burger,
Yogurtland and Baja Fresh offering quick affordable bites.
Whether it’s athletes catching a quick burger and fries after
practice or families grabbing dinner, these friendly eateries
are giving al fresco a hip young twist and a place for kids to
hang-out downtown. The Habit Burger1255 S. California
Blvd. (925)279-2286; Yogurtland1247 S California Blvd.,
(925)939-3885; Baja Fresh (new location!)
1273 S. California Blvd., 925-947-0588
Urban Flair
The sun-dappled patio at 1515 Restaurant Lounge is at the
top of our summer checklist. With good fresh food, it’s always
bustling on summer days and warm nights with a hip crowd,
and the bar serves potent signature cocktails. Try the caprese salad, fried ravioli and fresh fish. 1515 N. Main Street,
(925)939-1515, 1515wc.com.
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Mediterranean
Magic
Photography by Jim Fidelibus
The secret to an inviting garden is art. Blend it in with the
landscape, so it peeks and pops. Hide it in plain sight so it
enhances your existing garden magic. The Annual Sculpture in
the Garden event at the Ruth Bancroft Garden lets you explore
the beauty of art in a Mediterranean garden and view works
by outstanding Bay Area artists. The internationally renowned
garden and art may inspire you to enhance your own. Details:
Show runs through July 16, (admission $10, children under 12
free) 1552 Bancroft Rd., Walnut Creek, ruthbancroftgarden.org.
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July / august 2011
2152 Center St, Berkeley, CA 94704
A FAMILY
TRADITION
Rocco Biale continues his family’s tradition by serving
delicious homemade Italian food in an inviting, comfortable
atmosphere. People all over the Bay Area have made
eating at Rocco’s their family’s tradition. Make it yours!
• Family-owned and operated
• Hand-tossed pizza voted
“Best Pizza in the East Bay”
11 years in a row by the
Contra Costa Times readers poll
• Full sports bar with 27 screens
• Outdoor patio seating
• Live music every Saturday night
Corner of Ygnacio Valley and Oak Grove, Walnut Creek
Call 947-6105 • Fax 947-6106
TEXT ROCCOS TO 65374 to receive specials via text or visit
www.roccospizzeria.com for nightly specials and discounts.
july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
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What’s In Season
z peaches z
Farmers’ markets are bustling with apricots, nectarines, peaches, cherries, and plums.
Try these recipes to make the most of summer's glorious glut of stone fruit.
July is the perfect time to enjoy peaches in everything from cocktails to desserts!
Sip on Bellinis, dive into pie, shake up a smoothie - peaches are at their prime.
PEACH PARFAITS
Whisk 1/2 cup honey, vinegar, and vanilla in small bowl. ➤
Recipe from Chow Bella Kids Cooking School
Whisk crème fraîche and remaining 2 tablespoons honey in
Serves 6
medium bowl to blend. ➤ Prepare barbecue (medium-high
heat). ➤ Brush peaches generously with half of glaze. ➤ Grill
1 quart yogurt
until heated through, turning occasionally, about 4 minutes. ➤
6 ripe peaches, sliced
Arrange 2 peach halves, cut side up, on each plate. ➤ Drizzle
6 cups granola
with remaining glaze. ➤ Spoon some crème fraîche mixture
into center of each nectarine half and serve.
You will need six serving glasses.
Sprinkle 1 heaping tablespoon of the granola into the bottom
of each glass. ➤ Spoon 1 tablespoon of yogurt over the granola. ➤ Place 1 pile of peaches on top of the yogurt. ➤ Repeat
PEACH SALSA
with the remaining ingredients, alternating granola ending with
Reader Recipe
yogurt. ➤ You should have 3 layers of yogurt, 3 layers of fruit
and 3 layers of granola in each glass. ➤ Eat right away or cover
the glasses with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
4 cups fresh peaches - peeled, pitted and chopped
½ cup chopped onion
½ cup chopped red bell pepper
4 jalapeno peppers, minced
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Grilled Peaches
with Honey Balsamic Glaze
Diablo Valley Farmers’ Market
When using an outdoor grill, remember to brush the grill clean
before adding the fruit.
½ cup plus 2 tablespoons honey
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
¼ cup lime or orange juice
1 teaspoon grated lime zest
Slice and dice fresh peaches. ➤ Slice and mince peppers
removing all seeds from the insides. ➤ Add in onions, spices,
cilantro, lime or orange juice, and lime zest. ➤ Chill and serve.
➤ Can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
8-ounce container crème fraîche or sour cream
6 firm but ripe peaches, halved
july / august 2011
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57
what's in season
Tempting
Treats for
your Pooch
Recipe from Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue
Foundation (ARF)
²/³ cup flour, all purpose or
whole wheat
½ cup grated cheese, like parmesan
¼ cup powdered non-fat milk
1 tsp. garlic powder
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup applesauce
1 large egg
Combine all ingredients and mix well. ➤
Roll the dough out, then pat it onto a lightly
greased cookie sheet. ➤ Using a knife or
pizza cutter, cut desired sizes into the dough.
➤ Add extra cheese and garlic powder, if
desired. ➤ Bake at 350 degrees for 15
minutes or until golden brown. ➤ Let treats
cool and harden for a few hours. ➤ Break
them apart and store tightly covered in
the freezer.
Slice of Summer
What would summertime be without cold, sweet watermelon juice
dripping down your chin? Delicious cold and sliced, keep it in the
fridge for kids to snack on. A clever way to showcase watermelon
is in salad. Start with chunks of chilled watermelon, cucumber, red
onion and crumbled feta cheese, toss with olive oil and sea salt and
finish with a hint of lime.
SUMMER FRUIT KEBABS
Recipe from Chow Bella Kids Cooking School
Let your kids make this fun summer treat. Use small cookie cutters
to make fruit shapes before placing the fruit on skewers. Any combination of fruit will work fine. Try to keep the fruit pieces uniform
in size.
Makes 12 kebabs
1 small watermelon, cubed
1 small cantaloupe, cubed
1 small honeydew, cubed
1 pint strawberries, halved
1 small pineapple, cubed
Thread fruit onto skewers. ➤ Serve with Marshmallow Crème Dip
1- 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened
1- 13 ounce jar marshmallow creme
In a small bowl combine cream cheese and marshmallow creme, stir
until mixed thoroughly.
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Dining Guide
Our Guide to the Best Places to Eat
AMERICAN
Hubcaps Diner: On sunny weekends
people eat breakfast on the sidewalk,
and after hours you might see actors
popping in for a late bite after a show.
Burgers, shakes, typical diner food.
1548 Bonanza St., 945-6960,
hubcapsdiner.com.
Katy’s Kreek: Comfort food, especially
big on breakfast. Cozy and casual. Bring
your mom here and try the Eggs Benedict. 1680 Locust St., 946-0949,
katyskreek.com.
Lark Creek: Craving meat loaf? This
upscale Bradley Ogden restaurant serves
American fare with flare, specializing in
fresh seasonal produce. Try the Cobb
Salad. It’s the best. 1360 Locust St.,
256-1234, larkcreek.com.
Stadium Pub: Always bustling, this sports
bar has great food including NY pastrami, fish tacos and prime rib. 1420 Lincoln
Ave., 256-7302, stadiumpub.com.
Stanford’s: Happy Hour is hot here with
steak bites and burgers on the menu.
This is the place to take a shopping
break and indulge in a cocktail.
1330 S. Main St., 944-0895,
stanfords.com.
Sunrise Bistro: The emphasis is on
healthy food, but it’s also delicious. For
dinner, try the smashed sweet potatoes
and brisket. 1559 Botelho Dr., 930-0122,
sunrisebistrocatering.com
The Dining Guide is a listing of restaurants and includes
advertisers and non-advertisers at the discretion of Walnut
Creek Magazine. We suggest you phone the restaurants for
The Counter: Upscale burger joint where
they make it the way you want it, from
exotic to classic, and top it with your
favorites. 1699 N. California Blvd.,
935-3795, thecounterburger.com.
current hours and days of operation. (All in 925 area code unless
noted otherwise.) Submit restaurant suggestions, tips, ideas and
criticisms to info@walnutcreekmagazine.com.
60
walnut creek magazine
July / august 2011
The Original Hick’ry Pit: A Walnut Creek
tradition specializing in world-famous
barbecue ribs and big breakfasts. Finish
your meal with a piece of fresh pie.
1495 S. Main St., 935-7450.
CALIFORNIA
1515 Restaurant Lounge: Always lively and fun with flavorful
pastas and fresh fish. The heated outdoor patio is a good spot
to people watch. 1515 N. Main St., 939-1515, 1515wc.com.
c-blue bistro: California/Asian fusion food, weekend brunch,
and pool side drinks at this hip hotel and health club.
2805 N. Jones Rd., 938-8700, renaissanceClubSport.com.
Va de Vi Bistro: Small plates, wine flights, striking atmosphere.
A highlight is sitting outside under the massive oak tree,
weather permitting. 1511 Mt. Diablo Blvd., 979-0100,
vadevi.com.
DELI
Genova Delicatessen: Italian meats, fresh ravioli and sauces.
Take a number; they line-up for the fresh roasted turkey sandwiches at lunch. Two WC locations: 1105 S. California Blvd.,
939-3838 and 2064 Treat Blvd., 938-2888. genovadeli.net
Kinder’s: Famous for their tasty tri-tip sandwiches and
original barbeque sauce. 1831 Ygnacio Valley Rd., 952-9393,
kindersbbq.com.
Morucci’s Deli: Fans travel from several towns away for these
sandwiches. Try the turkey, tomato and mozzarella on ciabatta
or the popular chicken Caesar sandwich.
1218 Boulevard Way, 939-2426.
INDIAN
Breads of India: Traditional Indian food with a hip flair. A sister
restaurant in Berkeley has constant lines of people waiting for
tables; you’ll probably luck out at this one. 1358 N. Main St.,
256-7684, breadsofindia.com.
Orinda – Saturdays, April-November 9:00am-1:00pm
Lafayette – Thursdays, May-September 3:30pm-7:00pm
Walnut Creek – Sundays Year Round 8:00am-1:00pm
Saroor: Authentic food, with a lunch buffet and sit-down dinners.
2580 N. Main St., 937-2031, saroorindiancuisine.com.
ITALIAN
Il Fornaio: Italian food so innovative, you’ll forget it’s a chain.
Lovely dining room with lots of outdoor seating in the heart of
downtown shopping. 1430 Mount Diablo Blvd., 296-0100,
ilfornaio.com.
july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
61
COME IN AND CHECK OUT OUR SPECIALS!
Massimo: Upscale restaurant with a piano bar, serving food from
Northern Italy. Perfect for dinner before or after a performance
at Lesher Center for the Arts. 1604 Locust St., 932-1474, massimoristorante.com.
HUBCAPS
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1548 Bonanza Street, Walnut Creek
(925) 945-6960 www.hubcapsdiner.com
Montecatini Ristorante: An Italian restaurant with staying power;
it opened the day of the big earthquake in 1989. The menu features excellent seafood, pastas and veal.
1528 Civic Dr., 943-6608, montecatiniristorante.com.
Prima Ristorante: Everything’s made on the premises at this
acclaimed contemporary Italian restaurant. Try the salumeria
selection or reserve a spot at a winemaker dinner.
1522 North Main St., 935-7780, primaristorante.com.
PIZZA
Extreme Pizza: Like cactus or peanut sauce on your pie? This is
the place for fun gourmet pizzas (and “normal” ones, too). 1630
Cypress St., 930-6100, extremepizza.com.
Rocco’s: This renowned pizza joint serves delicious pies and so
much more. The house specialty is Dante’s Inferno. Don’t miss
the fried ravioli appetizer. 2909 Ygnacio Valley Rd., 947-6105,
roccospizzeria.com.
Skipolini’s: Hand-rolled dough tossed in a fun, kid-friendly environment. This local favorite has been serving great pizza
for over thirty five years. 1535 Giammona Dr., 280-1100,
skipolinispizza.com.
MEDITERRANEAN
Babalou’s: Great food at great prices. Kabobs, gyros and
falafels at great prices served in a brightly muraled room.
1645 Bonanza St., 930-8000, babalous.com.
Pomegranate: Good food served in a lovely setting, especially
on sunny days when you can dine outside. Share an appetizer
of hummus, and tabouli with fresh pita bread. 1389 N. Main St.,
944-9292, pomegranaterestaurant.com.
Silk Road: Patio dining, decadent dipping sauce. You can make a
meal from the appetizer plate and Greek salad. 1440 N. Main St.,
932-9090, silkroadwalnutcreek.com.
MEXICAN
360 Gourmet Burrito: Fresh delicious burritos made to order.
Don’t miss their sweet and spicy salsa. 1558 Newell Ave.,
935-0126, 360gb.com.
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walnut creek magazine
July / august 2011
Maria Maria: This beautiful restaurant sits on a creek, with seating inside and out. Try the tortilla soup, seafood guacamole and
margaritas. 1470 N. Broadway, 946-1010,
mariamariarestaurants.com.
Mi Casa: The owners are from Honduras and the menu may fool
you. Mildly spiced cuisine mixes tastes of Mexico and Central
America. Try the pupusitas and carne asada. 2195 N. Broadway,
937-8800.
SEAFOOD
Scott’s: Elegant surroundings, attentive service and good food.
They also do Sunday brunch, catering and social events.
1333 N California Blvd., 934-1300, scottsrestaurants.com.
04 PROTEINS. 10 CHEESES.
28 TOPPINGS. 18 SAUCES.
03 BUNS. ONE RESTAURANT.
One of the Burgers You
Must Eat Before You Die
—GQ MAGAZINE
Best Burger
—OPRAH WINFREY SHOW
Best Burger
2007 & 2008 Readers Poll
—PALO ALTO WEEKLY
Best Burger
2008 Readers Choice
—THE WAVE MAGAZINE
Walnut Creek Yacht Club: Always bustling for a reason. Best
New England clam chowder around; have it with their fish tacos.
1555 Bonanza St., 944-3474, walnutcreekyachtclub.com.
STEAKHOUSES
Fleming’s: Steaks with great sides such as scalloped potatoes
and creamed spinach. Start with the lobster tempura.
1685 Mt Diablo Blvd., 287-0297, flemingssteakhouse.com.
FREE PARkING IN OUR GARAGE
1699 North California Blvd Walnut Creek CA 94596
925 935 3795 925 935 3798 fax thecounterburger.com
©2009 The Counter CA006-0609
Ruth’s Chris: Stylish in surrounding and presentation.
We know someone who comes here just for the lemon drops.
1553 Olympic Blvd., 977-3477, ruthschris.com.
Vic Stewart’s: Walnut Creek’s original elegant steakhouse where
you can dine in a Pullman train car. It’s a classic all the way, from
the food to the martinis. 850 S. Broadway, 943-5666,
vicstewarts.com.
Asian Fusion
The Door: Indonesian and Asian flavors blend in sumptuous
dishes such as seared scallops, lamb-shank curry and prawn papaya salad. Dine outdoors on the creekside patio. 1448 S. Main
St., 930-8088, thedoorrestaurant.com.
CHINESE
Modern China Café: Dim sum all day shows off fresh flavors in
traditional packages. Beautiful atmosphere with huge menu and
a terrific happy hour. 1525 N. Main St., 988-8008, modernchinacafe.com.
Sophisticated Pan Asian Cuisine
RENOWNED CHEF DANIEL SUDAR’S
CULINARY CREATIONS WILL
TRIGGER ALL OF YOUR SENSES.
Enjoy lunch, dinner or sample several
dishes from the extensive “Street Bites”
Menu* on the Zen-like creekside
patio, the perfect place to unwind.
1448 S. MAIN STREET, WALNUT CREEK
925.930.8088
WWW.THEDOORRESTAURANT.COM
* Only available certain hours. Check website for details.
july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
63
OI-C Bowl: Chinese food served with style in a lovely setting.
Don’t miss the bento box lunch specials. 1616 N. Main St.,
287-8118, oicbowl.com.
P.F. Chang’s: It’s a chain restaurant, but doesn’t feel like one.
Try the lettuce wraps, dan dan noodles and salt and pepper
prawns. 1205 Broadway Plaza, 979-9070, pfchangs.com.
JAPANESE
CU Sushi: Famous for their fresh fish and affordable prices in
Berkeley, this is the new spot in town to go when you crave raw
fish. 1690 Locust St., 274-1767, cusushi.com.
Nama Sushi: Delicate and satisfying, this favorite with locals
serves up a luscious toro and teriyaki. Rolls are jam packed with
fresh seafood. 1502 Sunnyvale Ave., 932-9540.
Sakana Sushi: Don’t let the strip mall location fool you. People
rave about the fresh food here, as well as the service. 1280
Newell Hill Plaza, 938-6050.
Sasa: Upscale izakaya with dazzling décor and decadently fresh
fish. Try the chef’s sushi plate at lunch and the small plates at
dinner. 1432 N. Main St., 210-0188, sasawc.com.
Manufacturers of Fresh Homemade
Ravioli, Pasta and Sauces
THAI
Do Sit Thai Cuisine: Authentic Thai food, with a friendly owner
on site. 1520 Palos Verdes Mall, 933-3889.
Plearn Thai: This cheery little restaurant serves consistently
good food; try the pineapple fried rice and fresh coconut juice.
1510 N Main St., 937-7999, plearnthaipalace.com.
VIETNAMESE
Find our gourmet products at
your local supermarket
Enjoy our Walnut Creek Delicatessens
1105 S. California Blvd. 925.939.3838
2064 Treat Blvd. 925.938.2888
Walnut Creek Factory 925.938.1590
64
walnut creek magazine
July / august 2011
Eleve’: Its glass façade gives this urban eatery a sophisticated
feel, while the food comforts. Dinner is a good time to go and
indulge in a cocktail with five spice chicken or beef carpaccio.
1677 N. Main St., 979-1677, eleverestaurant.com.
Le Cheval: Renowned for its authentic dishes and huge selection of classic Vietnamese cuisine; vermicelli salad, ginger crab
and lemongrass chicken. 1375 N. Broadway, 938-2288,
lecheval.com.
Vanessa’s Bistro 2: Vietnamese food with a French twist, the
menu features steak, spicy salmon tartare and Saigon chicken
rolls served in a hip atmosphere. 1329 N. Main St., 891-4790,
vanessasbistro2.com.
MDine-in MCarry-out MCatering MSaloon MBanquet Facilities
100 Coggins Drive, Pleasant Hill
COFFEE
Caffé La Scala: Great buzz. A favorite for actors and opera
singers after rehearsals and shows. They also serve delicious
soups and salads. 1655 N Main St., 935-7779.
Pacific Bay Coffee Co.: Locally roasted beans served inside
and out. Cool art and wifi. 1495 Newell Ave., 935-1709
925-935-1440
www.BackForty.us
Like Us on Facebook
WE DO STEAKS, TOO.
Peet’s Coffee & Tea: First opened 43 years ago in Berkeley,
it’s known as a place to get some serious coffee. Two WC locations: 1343 Locust St., 933-9580 and 1835 Ygnacio Valley Rd.,
946-9046, peets.com.
Whole Foods Coffee Bar: The coffee is organic and delicious
and the foam on the latte’ is perfect. 1333 E. Newell Ave.,
274-9700, wholefoodsmarket.com.
FROZEN TREATS/DESSERTS
CocoSwirl: Serving over twenty tempting flavors of frozen
yogurt and toppings from fruit to candy.1273 Locust St.,
938-2626, cocoswirl.com.
Gelateria Naia: Fresh, local ingredients are used to make
stracciatella, pistachio and special flavors like whiskey. 1245
North Broadway, 943-1905. gelaterianaia.com
Haagen Dazs: Decadent treats in all sizes make this creamery
a countrywide favorite. Gourmet scoops, sundaes, smoothies
and special occasion cakes. 625 Capwell Lane, 944-1282.
Leonidas Chocolates: Pick up a handful or a pound of Belgian
chocolates from this tiny emporium. Indulge while you sip an
espresso at one of the shop’s outdoor tables. 1397 N. Main
St., 932-6666, cafeleonidas.com.
San Francisco Creamery: Perfect for birthdays and celebrations serving up ice cream and toppings the old fashioned way.
1370 Locust St., 926-0228, sanfranciscocreameryco.com.
Yogurt Station: Self-serve and fresh, there are fro-yos for every
taste. 2913 Ygnacio Valley Rd., 977-9111, theyogurtstation.com.
What is your favorite place to dine?
If you want it listed, get connected.
Send us an email:
info@walnutcreekmagazine.com
For the aficionado
who refuses to
compromise...
Casa Belicoso is a unique, upscale
retailer in Walnut Creek featuring
the finest handmade premium
cigars, accessories and apparel.
Come check out our humidor
for the latest cigars from
around the world.
2540 N. Main Street
Walnut Creek
925.979.9330
www.casabelicoso.com
july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
65
ma r k e t p l ace
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Introducing a new advertising section in Walnut Creek Magazine, designed to give you flexibility in your marketing message and reach our successful, affluent, educated readers. Here you can run a business card size ad,
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Dining Guide
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july / august 2011
walnut creek magazine
67
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» maniCuRe
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» Z u m b a with m i d o R i
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F R i e n d s in C - b l u e
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