Locals of Lake Almanor have long planned dinner out around Sushi night at Gamboni’s Peninsula Grill. Not surprising since they make the best sushi for miles. As a matter of fact it is so popular that owner and Chef John Gamboni has added his famous Crystal Shrimp Roll and Sashimi of Ahi Tuna to the regular menu as well as other daily sushi specials. Sushi lovers rejoice! I am a big fan of Gamboni’s Peninsula Grill and was thrilled to be invited to dinner by John Gamboni and his lovely wife Molly. Our candlelit table was glass topped and draped with a spotless white tablecloth, tastefully accented with a simple blossom in a cobalt blue bottle. There was a soft romantic tune playing in the background and the wine bottle, bistro decor was warm and welcoming. The mouth watering aromas drifting from the kitchen were sweet and spicy making our taste buds instantly curious.
Our bubbly server Sarah Puhl offered an impressive wine list and wide variety of daily specials including a full pound of Alaskan King Crab Legs ($39), Steamed Clams in a Garlic White Wine Sauce ($14) and a very tempting Hamachi Roll with Crunchy Wontons ($12) along with the regular dinner menu. In the end we chose the Crystal Shrimp Roll ($11) as our appetizer. This amazing sushi roll is wonderfully light sticky rice filled with crispy deep fried shrimp in a creamy yet tangy secret sauce. Served with fresh ginger, wasabi and soy sauce it has so much flavor and texture it’s like throwing a party for your mouth.
Speaking of parties, Gamboni’s Peninsula Grille has a full service bar and throws a kickin’ New Year’s Eve Party complete with dancing, a D.J. and several drink and dining specials. We’ll be there for sure, sampling the Kosmo Kramer ($8). Dustin the bartender will be mixing up Mandarin Vodka, Triple Sec, cranberry and a splash of Chambord that completes the house martini. I can’t wait.
All entrees at Peninsula Grill are served with soft, warm fresh baked bread and your choice of a fresh garden salad or the homemade soup of the day. We followed our Crystal Shrimp with a delicious Broccoli Smoked Cheddar Soup perfect for dipping the buttery bread. Mmmmm. I struggled between the Grilled Salmon ($26) over garlic mashed potatoes with caramelized vegetables and bell pepper and chive beurre blanc, and the evening special of Penko Macadamia Encrusted Halibut ($29) drizzled with an irresistible Pineapple Rum Sauce over a tender rice pilaf with fresh al dente’ asparagus. The halibut is Molly’s favorite and after trying it myself I am convinced this dish must be the reason she married him. It was garnished with a stunning dainty orchid and every succulent bite melted in my mouth. My companions 14 oz. Grilled Rib-eye Steak ($26) was remarkably tender and the Blue Cheese Herb Butter gave it a rich and flavorful kick. I can’t believe he ate the whole thing, leaving just a few garlic mashed potatoes and one lonely grilled zucchini. Ben’s not a fellow of large appetite so his clean plate was a huge compliment to chefs Jim Stevenson, Shane Mayes, Mary Benson and of course John Gamboni. This group presents an unforgettable dining experience. Drop in on them for Happy Hour from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. daily Tues-Sat for select half price appetizers or make a dinner reservation, (530- 596-3538) and enjoy the whole fabulous fare at 401 Peninsula Drive, Lake Almanor. Bon Appetit!
