Buffalo Chips Pizza

Okay, so you probably have heard about the pizza at Buffalo Chips in Westwood. It is so good that it draws people from all over the area throughout the year to historic downtown Westwood. Watch them toss it in the air, form it into an artistic masterpiece with all of your favorite toppings, then bake it to a bubbling perfection. If you have only tried the pizza, it’s time to go back and experience the rest of the story. Each day they make homemade bread to serve warm with homemade soup, or to make your favorite sandwich. Try that turkey temptation for one. They cook a real turkey breast every day, serve it on homemade bread with mayo, lettuce, tomato and avocado. Yum! The salad bar rocks at Buffalo Chips too.Take Hwy. 36 or or 147 to downtown Birch Street in Westwood.

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Chef John Camboni and Kippy Mayne ready to serve lunch!

The latest news at Gamboni is their new lunch fare served Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11 am until 2:30 pm. The menu includes an assortment of starters including Baby Back Ribs, Buffalo Wings, Crab Cakes and Coconut Shrimp.

An assortment of salads compliment the menu with creations like Chef Gamboni’s Candied Walnut  and Goat Cheese Salad with cranberries, apple and balsamic vinaigrette. The Flat Iron Steak Salad features romaine, tomato salsa and bleu cheese crumbles.

A half pound Angus burger with fries and all the fixin’s is $8.95, with a Cesar Wrap at $7.95. There is more too, including a fresh fish sandwich with freshly prepared dill tartar, fries and accompaniments at $13.95.A Caesar Wrap, and Chicken or Calamari teak Sandwich is offered as well as a kidsmenu!

Enjoy excellent food and great service on the beautiful Lake Almanor Peninsula!

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Mi Casita Mexican Restaurant

It was a beautiful day in Quincy, Ca when I met Mario Marquez, owner of Mi Casita Mexican Restaurant. This has long been a favored stop for me when I am in Quincy and now I see why. Mario is no stranger to cooking professionally. He got his start at the original Mi Casita in Susanville many years ago. Now it was beginning to click… every friday night, way back when, we used to crowd in with all the rest on that Main Street corner in Susanville for some of Mario’s cuisine. He eventually moved on to Josefina’s, and went to work in Chester when Josefina’s opened there. When they were done in Chester, Mario stayed and changed the name to Mi Casita. With many of the original recipes in hand, he began preparing them his own way. He expanded into Quincy in 1999, leaving his ister Elizabeth with the Chester location, also open 7 days a week on Main Street in chester.

Scents of chile verde drew us to the top of the hill in East Quincy to Mi Casita where a bright red tablecloth and a basket of chips and homemade salsa welcomed us to our seat overlooking the popular patio area. It was an obvious hot spot for the working lunch.

They serve a good breakfast too at Mi Casita from 6am. They also have steak or steak and prawns which is a Rib Eye steak and six deliciously deep fried prawns. Many American favorites come with fries including a burger, steak sandwich or their Fish Fry.

This family owned and operated restaurant welcomes you from 6 am until 9 pm for some of their favorites, soon to be yours also. Stop in soon and meet them if you have not already. You’ll love their large menu.  They serve beer, wine and wine margaritas too and a scrumptions $15.95 prime rib special on Fridays.

Mario & Son, Sergio

Mario's daughter Stephanie- it's a family affair!

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Adds Basque Night

Sage Hen Restaurant

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Coventry Gardens

Zach Hart is chef and proprietor at Coventry Gardens in Susanville. Zach’s love for cooking began when he and his brother grew up fishing and hunting. The rule in their family: you kill it, you clean it and cook it. Parents Rob and Linda Hart say they always enjoyed the samples.

Zach has always been one to experiment with spices and herbs, to find the perfect balance of flavor, according to Mom.

The lunch menu includes a variety of salads, homemade quiche and the Coventry Garden Luncheon” where you can choose any two items from: soup, 1/2 sandwich, quiche and salad, all served with a pot of tea or soda and choice of homemade scones.

Things have changed some since they first opened as a tea room. With Zach now running Coventry Gardens, he has revised the menu. It includes some of the tea room favorites and now in an effort to cater to more people, he has created some hearty specials like the smokey ham and cheese or the ‘Big Ben’ prime thin sliced roast beef and jack cheese all served on a french roll with au jus. Homemade sandwiches are served with a choice of side salad, a cup of soup or Zach cut french fries. The menu has been a hit so far.

There is a variety of burgers including the ever popular bleu cheese bacon burger. A children’s menu is available at Coventry Gardens.

The restaurant is open Tuesday through Friday from 11 until 3 with Friday hours till 8pm, when they serve a fabulous array of dinner entrees in addition to their regular menu.

The restaurant is housed in an historic victorian home which has been restored and transformed into a very beautiful restaurant. Located one block off Main Street at 70 South Roop Street in uptown Susanville, the restaurant also offers outside catering and special events there.

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By Melissa Wynn

Andre and Calisto Baeza

TWO BROTHERS TO MEET…

The full service and happening bar in Casa Beaza carries over 55 brands of Tequila on the regular menu as well as 15 top shelf brands and 7 over the top brands. The Baezas know tequila, but in case you are not a tequila fan, their bar serves all the other party spirits too. On the soft drink side, seven sodas from Mexico are available to insure that all may sample a true taste of that country. Drop in on Andres and Calisto Beaza at 10004 Bridge Street in historic downtown Truckee, Ca. or call for something to go at 530- 587-2161. Great food, a ton of fun, in probably one of the friendliest restaurants around.

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A Family Tradition

By Steve Thackeray

The Polka Dot

Our Family moved to Quincy in 1968 and it wasn’t long thereafter that we discovered the best thing since sliced bread. While I may be exaggerating a bit, it only takes one visit on a sunny afternoon to understand why the Polka Dot is so special. Great food is not the only reason this place quickly became a family favorite.

I’m not certain the Perkin’s family had a master plan to become the most popular eatery in Quincy when they opened for business in 1962 but that’s what happens when you combine yummy food, the warm sun, outdoor dining, and a small creek for the kids to play in. I asked my six year old daughter, Kayla, what her favorite thing about the Polka Dot is and she couldn’t choose between the corn dog or the “river”. I then mentioned the ice cream cone and she had a real dilemma deciding!

The Polka Dot offers a large variety of delicious food, ranging from old fashioned hamburger and fries to rice bowls. Go to www.mountainvalleyliving and view the complete Polka Dot menu. The Perkins Family would love to have you stop by and you can also phone ahead at (530) 283-2660.

Mountain Valley Living Magazine has been placing our magazine (please pick up a copy to read while eating) on the parking side of the Polka Dot for about three months now. This has been a real problem for me because I go there about every third day to restock our supply and I cant stop drinking their milk shakes. The shakes are so thick and tasty…good luck trying to stop this addiction once you start.

I was there with Eileen (our Publisher) the other day enjoying an ice cream cone and we noticed that there were quite a few people gathered around one of the picnic tables. Eileen went over to see what the special occasion was and found the Quincy High School class of 1960 celebrating their 50 year reunion. They said that there is no better place to meet and enjoy a day with old friends and good food. It dawned on me that the Polka Dot is a tradition for other families besides my own.

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Old Mill Cafe

Breakfast starts at 7 am with all your regular favorites. There is a variety of omelettes including the “Spanish” with house-made sauce.. yum. The biscuits and gravy is downright famous for it hearty presentation and excellent flavor. The pancakes are good and boy, are they huge.

Besides burgers and fries and a variety of great coffee shop entrees on the lunch menu, you find daily lunch specials at this friendly cafe in downtown Westwood. This welcoming, small town restaurant has counter seating too. They Old Mill is well known for their nightly dinner specials, like Pork Cutlets served in a flavorful gravy. I like it with the mashed potatoes.

They serve up tender and juicy prime rib on Friday nights with Saturday night seafood specials that are spectacular! The Captains Platter is hard to resist. Every night’s special seems to draw a crowd to the historic mill town of Westwood. The Old Mill is housed in one of the original logging camp bunkhouses and visitors to town will also want to stop at the giant statue of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox just a block away.

At The Old Mill Cafe, you will find those good old fashioned flavors of home cooking. Fresh coffee is served with half and half and dinners come with a mini loaf of bread with real butter, salad or their homemade soup of the day, vegetables and choice of potato.

Chicken Fried Steak is a popular item on this menu lined up with loads of good old fashioned dinners, like fried chicken, pork chops, steak or grilled chicken breast to name a few. Lunch items are also available at dinner time. Prices are reasonable and that is reason enough for me to save room for that homemade pie!

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For many, dining on the deck is an annual tradition. Others come more often!

Nelson has enjoyed cooking for over 15 years and especially enjoys the lakeside ambience. Owner Trudi Dillard tells us they are open 7 days a week from Memorial Day to Labor Day. They use the freshest ingredients including 100% natural Black Angus beef. Dining is available indoors or on the deck.

There is a nice line up of “starters” including crispy coconut prawns, Dungeness crab cakes and their new spicy tuna roll, to name a few. They serve a variety of salads like the classic Caesar, southwestern chicken salad and Asian taco salad with pepper crusted Ahi. Sandwiches include the Philly cheese steak, pulled pork and more. A personal pepperoni pizza and roasted portobello sandwich are also choices at lunch.

There is a flavorful array of dinner entrees. Braised chicken with a Chardonnay cream sauce, pan roasted fresh pacific halibut with a Thai glaze and baby back ribs… Entrees are served with salad or soup (Lakeside’s clam chowder). Lemon herb linguini with grilled tiger shrimp is a favorite for pasta lovers but it is hard for me to pass up a Black Angus steak.

The dinner menu also offers a Lakeside burger, tavern style fish & chips and fresh panko crusted salmon. Prime rib is served on Fridays and Saturdays. Gorgeously delicious dessert specials are offered nightly. Come enjoy the views and lakeside cuisine at Plumas Pines Resort, with Almanor’s only lakefront dining, just off Hwy. 89.

The Courtesy Dock Awaits You

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Imagine strolling spacious gardens lined with softly lit evergreen trees on a warm summer evening, sampling epicurean treats and sipping a great Merlot or Chardonnay. You’re enjoying the impressive Foxwood Park and Pavilion, listening to live jazz in the background and celebrating with Rotary as it sponsors the best of what a Lake Almanor summer has to offer. Cost of participation is only $40.00

It all starts at 6:00pm with Wine, Spirits & Food Tasting from area restaurants and Northern California wineries while shopping the best of local artisans and bidding to your hearts content on spectacular silent auction items all set to the lively music of 8 O’clock Jazz band.

At 9:00 the silent auction tables start closing & successful bidders are announced while the party continues at the Pavilion with dancing to the intuitive & rocking tunes of DJ- Buzz Barrett & “no host” libation poured by the Elk’s Lodge until midnight.

This will be Rotary Club of Chester’s major fund raising event replacing a Wine Tasting/Dinner fundraiser that was historically held in the late fall. This even incorporates a major makeover of the former event into the “Premier Summer Lawn Party” held in the Lake Almanor Basin. Chester Rotary is establishing an event that you want to be a part of and will have a substantial following from year to year.

All proceeds stay in our club to be used for local community and ongoing club commitments like Chester Rotary Scholarships, Youth Exchange (RYE), Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), Youth Music & Speech Programs, Major Appliance Cleanup (MAC), Rotarians at Work Day, the Chester Elementary 6th grade Watershed Program and various international projects. With the success of this event comes Rotary’s ability to expand these & other needed services to the community.

Don’t miss Almanor Basins best party of the summer, Call 530-259-4874 or visit www.MidSummerMadness.Info for event information and ticket reservations.

Participation is limited to 500 guest

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Who can resist spicy, authentic Mexican cuisine from Casa Baeza in Truckee, Ca? Not me for sure. Owners, operators and brothers, Andres and Calisto Baeza, keep the food hot, the beer cold and the jokes fresh. These guys are experts in good food and good fun. Casa Baeza is all about having a good time, no long faces here.

Warm, fresh cooked tortilla chips and  homemade salsa with a bit of a kick, start every meal. I always add an order of guacamole to cool my tongue from the tasty salsa. Balance is good, right? Lunch and dinner choices include all of our authentic Mexican favorites including tamales, menudo, enchiladas (red and green), tortas, carnitas, tapatias and ceviche just to name a few of many. Each entree is cooked in the tradition and taste of old Mexico. Recipes have been perfected and that’s why this place is a hopping spot!

The full service and happening bar in Casa Beaza carries over 55 brands of Tequila on the regular menu as well as 15 top shelf brands and 7 over the top brands. The Baezas know tequila, but in case you are not a tequila fan, their bar serves all the other party spirits too. On the soft drink side, seven sodas from Mexico are available to insure that all may sample a true taste of that country. Drop in on Andres and Calisto Beaza at 10004 Bridge Street in Truckee, Ca or call for something to go at 530- 587-2161.

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Tunisian Salmon

By Melissa Wynn

Just when you think the dining delights of The Sage Hen Restaurant couldn’t get any better, they announce  fine Basque cuisine on Thursday nights, served family style in a casual country setting. Each week, Master Chef and owner Serge Marchale will be whipping up several new entrees, such as a steaming rich lamb stew.  All entree choices include homemade soup & fresh green salad along with two mouth watering sides.

If Basque is not your style, the regular menu is still available with treasures like Veal Scallopini and local Five Dot Ranch steaks. The Prime Rib Buffet has returned to The Sage Hen Restaurant on the weekends, matched up with their extensive wine list and full service bar for a buffet that is hard to beat.

Serge, Rita, Joey, Josh and Dustin, who make up the staff at the family owned and operated Sage Hen, made our Mountain Valley Living family feel right at home. This warm and cheerful bunch is serving breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days a week from 7a.m.-9p.m. at  2975 Main Street in Susanville.

From an early morning steaming cup of fresh brewed coffee, through a lunchtime, build your own Five Dot Ranch Burger or a Tunisian Salmon,  on to a late, sinfully scrumptious, homemade dessert like Chocolate Whiskey Cake or Deep Dish Apple Pie, The Sage Hen Restaurant has it all. Dine in with the Marchales or take your yummies to go by calling 530-257-3458. They are across from Safeway at 2975 Main Street and meals are moderately priced. Make your way in for some exquisite dining. You can visit their website for more delicious details and even download a coupon at www.thesagehenrestaurant.com.

Photos courtesy of The Sage Hen Restaurant

Chocolate Whiskey Cake

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Grandma Maxine Tillford, Pie from The Old Mill Cafe

By Melissa Wynn

photos by Melissa Wynn

The economic demand for double income families and the convenience of fast and prepared foods have made good old fashioned, down home cookin’ a dying art. Dessert has come to mean ice cream from a carton or perhaps some cupcakes from a shiny cardboard box.  So many of us just don’t have the time or energy at the end of a long work day to throw together one of Grandma’s delicious chocolate pies, but fear not The Old Mill Cafe in Westwood, CA has us covered. Homemade pie is not just for Thanksgiving anymore! Six days a week Maxine, our own resident Grandma and scholar of the cooking arts, is faithfully posted in The Old Mill Cafe kitchen, creating masterpiece pies from scratch, the way pie was meant to be. There is always a menagerie of choices and trust me, making a selection is harder than you think. Not only are the daily choices posted on the wall, the cold case is in the dining room flashing its tempting fare. How does one push aside Mixed Berries in a flaky sugar dusted crust for Coconut Cream atop a thick layer of rich chocolate piled high with whipped cream (Black Bottom)? Many Westwood locals have a favorite but I recommend you visit Grandma often at 324 Birch St. and try them all.

So, you’re not the social type but still want Grandma’s homemade pie, Strawberry Rhubarb perhaps? Kippy, Sabrina, Stacy, Lana or Marci will be happy to cut you a wide thick slice ($4.25) of Dutch Apple, Blueberry Cheesecake, Pecan or maybe even a huge square of Bread Pudding and box it up with a smile to go. Just give them a call Monday - Friday 6am-7pm or Saturday 7am-7pm at( 530)256-3180. Can’t beat that with a frozen puck in a foil pan, no Mam. Whole nine inch pies and cheesecakes are also available by ordering ahead and range in price from $17-$25.  Rod Theobald, owner of The Old Mill Cafe, really knew what he was doing when he hired Grandma Maxine, his own mother-in-law to bake her famous pies for all of us, and when Maxine isn’t available his wife Connie can step right in. Let them eat pie! Come on over to Westwood and join us at The Old Mill Cafe for homemade pie. You can have Pumpkin or Pineapple Cream or Sour Cream Raisin or Cherry or……..

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Greetings, Mountain Valley neighbors! This month I have the pleasure of sharing with you my unrivaled favorite pizza and sandwich place on the planet. Buffalo Chips Pizza is just a few blocks walk for me down to 322 Birch St. in Westwood, Ca.  I am lucky  to enjoy the hand thrown, fresh homemade dough topped with one of their scrumptious sauces and my choice of 24 toppings whenever I like. No matter what combination I order, the garden fresh veggies and lean meats are piled high and topped with Buffalo Chips own blend of cheeses. Thirty minutes or so later, charming and adorable owner Ryan Gibbs or one of the girls slide it out of the old fashioned brick oven in all its bubbly and crispy perfection. It’s a stretchy, spicy mouthwatering dining adventure every time. Everyone in town has a favorite or three. My three faves come from the Buffalo Chips Gourmet Pizza menu (sm. $15.40 med. $19.75 lg. $21.95). When I want something rich I always choose the #1, Stuffed Mushrooms. It’s hard to resist the warm chewy crust spread with creamy garlic sauce, topped with tons of mushrooms, decorated with  chopped green onions  then sprinkled with crumbles of decadent blue cheese. Yummy! Sometimes with a house full of teens, spicy is the name of the game and the #7, Jalapeno Popper Pizza with its blend of 6 cheeses and a generous portion of tongue torching jalapenos atop that wonderful garlic cream sauce, fills the pizza box destined for my house.

Half Supreme / Half Tropical

On those nights when nobody feels like cooking we often order a 50/50 with the girl’s half being the #8, BBQ Chicken Pizza with traditional red sauce, tons of stretchy cheese, bell peppers, tomatoes, pineapple and loads of BBQ chicken. The boys have the Lumberjack: red sauce, Canadian bacon, salami, pepperoni, sausage, ground chuck and linguicia dripping with cheese. Now that’s dinner. Not only does Buffalo Chips Pizza serve earth’s best pizza, they have a soup and salad bar ($6.75 once through) always packed full of cool fresh salad fixins’ and a homemade soup of the day. I love their Creamy Chicken Vegetable Soup, while Friday’s Clam Chowder is top notch. A steaming bowl with two huge, thick slices of Buffalo Chips delicious, hot, fresh baked homemade bread is only  $4.85 seven days a week. Several of the outstanding sandwich choices at Buffalo Chips also come on that amazing homemade bread including my favorite, the Turkey Temptation ($6.85), made with fresh roasted turkey breast right from the bird, mayo, lettuce, tomato, avocado and your choice of Swiss, Jack, American or pepperjack cheese and Grandma’s 1877 thick sliced ham in place of the Temptation’s turkey; no cold cuts here. The local favorite hot sandwich at Buffalo Chips Pizza is no doubt the Beefy Cheese Supreme ($6.85) with its huge pile of prime roast beef drizzled with the perfect amount of Buffalo Chips own tangy BBQ sauce topped with Jack and mozzarella cheeses, onions and jalapenos oven toasted to perfection atop a soft French roll and finished off with fresh cool tomato slices. Be careful, this sandwich can easily become an addiction. All sandwiches are served with tortilla chips and warm nacho cheese sauce. Adding a small soup or one trip through the salad bar is only $3.30 more, same with pizza orders. Awesome food at great prices, what more can you ask for? Perhaps the only things that does make it better is the homey atmosphere and friendly company that defines Buffalo Chips Pizza. Soft lighting and a log cabin feel find us all making ourselves right at home in the company of the many buffalo that accentuate the country decor. Just the other day I found myself among the herd having a great visit with

Phil Bryant, Jane Medici, Ross Macy

Phil Bryant, Jane Medici and Ross Macy in for lunch from Westwood High School where Bryant and Medici both work and Macy is a student. I was waiting for an order of Buffalo Wings ($7.50), Garlic Cheese Bread ($3.25) and some Jalapeno Poppers (sm.$3.75 lg. $6.75) for my own get together when I noticed that Ross Macy was having something I had never even thought to try, a pizza sandwich with garlic cream sauce, roasted turkey breast and artichoke hearts along with his heaping garden fresh salad.  Yummy idea, Ross.

Speaking of good ideas, the Gibbs family sure had one when they filled the huge front porch with tables so we could gather under the sun for pizza and beer all summer long. This community porch even has a tiny log cabin playhouse for the little ones and planters full of cheerful blooms, just like home. We have gathered here with friends and family for 30 years or more, since before the porch, when Ryan’s mother Marilyn first opened in the original location just a few doors down. My own children have never known a Westwood without Buffalo Chips Pizza. The best things in life withstand the test of time, including many of Marilyn’s original recipes that I strongly encourage all of you to come and taste test for yourselves. Two generations of Westwood natives and a constantly growing number of loyal  patrons from nearby communities can’t all be wrong. Westwood is a great spot to stop off for lunch when traveling along scenic Hwy 36 between Susanville and Red Bluff. Just turn onto Birch St. at the Westwood Business District sign and follow the herd to the Buffalo Chips Pizza & Pub sign above the porch.  Buffalo Chips Pizza is also an excellent choice for lunch or dinner when camping, fishing or swimming at stunning Lake Almanor just 8 miles away. Ryan and his dedicated crew are here to serve with a smile 7 days a week. Drop in next time you find yourself in our neck of the woods or call ahead for your Buffalo Chips Pizza favorites at 530-256-2412.

photos by Melissa Wynn

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By Melissa Wynn

The balcony view from our room #9

After being cooped up in the house through a seven day series of Sierra snow storms, my sister and I decided to cross the mountain. We were in search of some fun and sunshine in Nevada’s famous Comstock Lode.  It is only about 15 miles from the US 395 exit 57B to Virginia City, but that short drive is like a time tunnel that carries you from the modern hustle and bustle of Reno back more than a century to the simpler times, reminiscent of the 1860′s.  In those days, gold and silver miners filled the saloons of Virginia City by day and many spent their nights a mile down the road at the Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon. We also spent the night in this nostalgic, official historic site that claims the title of Nevada’s oldest operating hotel.  Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon first welcomed boarders as the Riesen House around 1859 and remains a most warm and inviting place to hang your hat for a night or two. We arrived  excited,  chattering about our earlier visit to downtown Virginia City where we met members of The First Regimen of Fort Churchill.  Colonel Ringo, Sergeant Whiskey Rivers and his  brother Brigadier General GB Rivers were three of the characters in Civil War period clothing who relive the old west here every weekend. What fun! The feathery hats, floor length dresses, parasols and uniforms made us feel like we were really back in those days.  Hotel Manager Melody Reynolds gave a knowing smile as we oooed and ahhhed at the memorabilia on the office door from the Cartwright boys and the Ponderosa.

Left to right: Sergeant Whiskey Rivers, Colonel Ringo, Brigadier General G.B Rivers of the First Regiment Fort Churchill

Now there was a piece of Virginia City history from our own childhood.  The flowing drapes in our beautiful, antique furnished room framed an amazing view of the sun setting pink, gold and orange over the rolling, sage dotted hills. The ancient head frame of old Yellow Jacket Mine stands tall next door and I stood there wondering how many miners left this very room for a long day’s work beneath the ground.  A fire was laid in our room’s stone fireplace and the copper oil lamp on the thick wooden mantle spoke of days before the light switch was installed. My sister and I sat before the fire awhile wondering about the host of outlaws and celebrities that must have ventured here over the last 150 years.

The Saloon at The Gold Hill is still slinging drinks so we headed downstairs to check it out before dinner. Another roaring fire was burning in the Great Room when we passed through on our way to the tiny full service bar where dollar bills decorate the ceiling. Our charming host, Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon owner Bill Fain, was at his regular post in front of yet another fire, eating his lamb chop dinner and visiting with patrons as if we were all old friends at a planned get together. Everyone felt right at home. My sister ordered a cocktail and I ordered coffee, remarking that I would be driving after dinner. Mark, the bartender, changed my mind by telling me about an extraordinary local gentlemen that shuttles folks around Virginia City, working for donations with no set fee.  His name is Grant Smith and he is a great big beautiful doll.  Every business in town knows who he is and how to contact him–the friendly neighborhood designated driver. This town rocks! “A little Irish cream in my coffee please.”

Keith James and Danielle DuBois of Reno, NV enjoy a meal at the hotel.

A stroll back through the Great Room and down the hall brought us to Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon’s own Crown Point Restaurant that specializes in gourmet dinners. We were greeted by Executive Chef Randy Bryant. Not only is Randy an excellent chef, he is a delightful barrel of laughs.  We asked about the menu and learned that if the ingredients are in the kitchen, Randy will prepare any meal you choose and with a weeks notice he will make sure that the ingredients for your chosen dishes are in the kitchen. Now that is down home service. My sister and I both love sushi so when we saw the Homemade Sushi Rolls Combo ($15), we ordered up.  This appetizer included my favorite California Roll with crab and avocado, a Majuro Roll with spicy Ahi Tuna and Ami bi Sweet Shrimp all served with Soy sauce and a wonderful cucumber wasabi sauce that was both cool on the tongue and hot up the nose, a delightful way to start our meal. Next came two fresh green salads topped with a very creamy homemade blue cheese dressing that I would love the recipe for and a warm basket of fresh baked bread. MMMMMM. Our empty salad plates were replaced by a scoop of  raspberry sorbet to ready the palette for entree treasures yet to come. My sister had the thick and juicy 10 oz ribeye cut right off the prime ($18) served with sauteed fresh spinach, grilled spaghetti squash and a huge baked potato fully loaded with scallions, butter, sour cream, grated cheese and bacon bits. She took over half of it back to the room in a box. I let Chef Randy choose for me and was delighted when our lovely server brought me a thick Halibut fillet ($22) topped with diced tomatoes, calamara olives and a tangy, buttery sauce, Randy’s own secret creation. He finished my amazing meal with cheesy au gratin potatoes and the same spinach and squash of the evening. As light and flaky and delicious as that halibut was, I still couldn’t finish it all but I gave it noble effort…one more bite. Oh goodness, very stuffed.

Danielle Dubois and Kieth James  made the short drive from their Reno home to dine at Crown Point  as well and we so enjoyed their company. Chef Randy made Danielle a custom Alfredo dish filled with fresh veggies ($15) and topped it with chips of aged parmesan cheese. Kieth savored The Buffalo Filet Mignon($38), just one of the specialty game dishes served at Crown Point Restaurant. It is wrapped in apple-wood bacon and topped with Chef’s Jack Daniels Red Bell Pepper Sauce. Did I say oooo yummy? Excellent food, service and company, what more can you ask for?

With our tummies full we ventured back to the Saloon and made that call to Grant for our ride to town. We made our $10 donation and decided since we were staying at Nevada’s oldest hotel that we might well get dropped off at The Old Washoe Club,Virginia City’s oldest Saloon. We danced the night away with the locals and a few other visitors to the rockin’ tunes of Road Dawgs, an excellent band that played all our favorite classic rock and kept the crowd lively to the very last song. When the music was finished and the lights came up we saw Grant sitting at a corner table sipping a 7Up, waiting patiently to safely deliver us back to Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon. What a guy!

We drifted off in our soft and comfy bed, dreaming of Comstock adventures. This was a great getaway and rates are  very reasonable beginning at just $55 a night for the double bed rooms on a weeknight and topping out a $225 for a weekend night in the Brewery Lodge, a private 3 bedroom residence across the way. Virginia City always has some thing going on. If you would like to visit, you can learn more about Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon and Crown Point Restaurant by visiting goldhillhotel.net or just give owners Bill and Carol Fain a call at 775-847-0111. Tell them Mountain Valley Living sent you and have ball…we did.

photo courtesy of: The Road Dawgs from Reno, NV

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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!

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I was first introduced to Nancy’s when a group I belonged to came for a meeting in a curtained-off side room of the restaurant. Here we munched on fruit kabobs, vegetables and dips, muffins, coffee and tea as we talked together. One of the owner’s dreams for this business has been to open it to groups of all sorts including art associations, AA groups, book clubs, church meetings, Round Table discussions, open mike talent shows, music jams and more. Watch the local newspapers for information on upcoming events. Or you can give her a call with your ideas or plans.

Local Bookclub Meeting

I must say that the food here is high quality and delicious. Each day, Nancy plans a special of the day along with the other menu items. When our book club met for breakfast this summer we were delighted with the choices and the very reasonable prices. Menu items include the regular stand-bys of biscuits and gravy, assorted cereals, yogurts, muffins and sweet breads. Add to that the homemade Breakfast Sandwiches ($4.95), Breakfast Burritos ($5.50), Quiche of the Day ($4.95) and Bagels, alone or with cream cheese and lox, and this menu is sure to suit the tastes of everyone in the family.

A Perfect Breakfast

For lunch Nancy serves the Special of the Day al0ng with Deli Sandwiches ($5.95), Tuna Salad as a side or sandwich, fruit, pasta and tossed salads, chips and dip, pita with hummus and Hot Clam Pie. She also makes the best vegetable lasagna I have ever eaten which can also be made to go—as can any of her dishes. Call ahead to order large quantities to go. Nancy uses all natural ingredients in both cooking and beverages.

Nancy’s idea of space is to encompass everything from art, casual but delicious food, comfort, relaxation, internet access and music. She has asked Feather River Fine Arts Association to exhibit at the restaurant and members’ work now adorns the walls. Each month a different artist’s paintings or photos can be seen hanging in the restaurant.

Outdoors at Nancys

Because there is a large yard adjacent to the building, customers may sit outside on beautiful days at several picnic tables with umbrellas while the children stretch their legs in the fenced in picnic area. Dogs are also welcome in this area.

The restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch every day but Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8 am to 4 pm. Although the restaurant is not open for dinner at this time, Nancy will remain open for special groups and parties in the evenings by appointment. Nancy’s is located at 449 Peninsula Drive, Lake Almanor, CA. For group reservations or food to go, call 30-596-3690.

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Opened in October, 2007, The Sage Hen is fairly new to Susanville, so we were excited to be invited to sample their wares. We arrived on a sunny, lazy Sunday afternoon and the cottage-like front porch filled with flowers and fresh herbs seemed to beckon “come on in”. The tiny and lovely Mama of this family owned and operated eatery, Miss Rita, greeted us at the door with menus and a prize winning smile. Rita met owner and Master Chef, Serge Marchale after her sons Joey and Josh starting working for The Sage Hen. They soon fell in love and are now living happily ever after. Daughter-in-law to be, Bekah, and son Dustin, also help keep The Sage Hen patrons full and happy. What a charming bunch! Their heartwarming story spills over into the homey decor. Roosters of ceramic stand guard over The Hen high above the entry fireplace and several decorative ships that belonged to Serge’s father, along with carved wooden birds and swordfish, grace the shelves that line

the main dining room. Dark burgundy walls, lace curtains and candlelit tables with perfectly creased linen napkins round out the “make yourself at home” feel this family strives to create. The dining fare is all homemade from the freshest and finest local ingredients available, but I’m certain it must be the pinch of hope and dash of love they add that puts The Sage Hen flavors hands above the rest. The purely organic and hormone free beef in the kitchen is exclusively from The 5 Dot Ranch just outside of town. Shortly after we were seated and nibbling on the 3 flavors of wonderful fresh baked bread, 5 Dot owner, Tom Swickard, and his family arrived to enjoy dinner as well. It isn’t often one gets to dine with the fellow that raised your ribeye. Thanks Tom! More local treasures came to our table when Rita served the Insalata Salad ($7.50), vine ripened heirloom tomatoes from the local farmers market topped with fresh mozzarella, Fresca basil and extra virgin olive oil. Sooo yummy. Our second appetizer was the Tender Crispy Fried Calamari with a delicious spunky

Chipolte Aioli($7). Our wine was also native Californian from the Iron Stone Winery in Murphys. I enjoyed the lightly sweet white Symphony ($8 a glass $24 a bottle) and my companion sipped a glass of the special Red Reservean, Old Vine Zin ($9 a glass and $32 a bottle). We must have spent half an hour savoring the first course. One of Serge’s famous 5 Dot Ribeyes ($18) broiled to medium rare perfection with a stout Burgundy mushroom sauce served with creamy mashed potatoes and fresh green beans was my dinner date’s superb entree choice. He swears to return for another. I decided to let Rita choose for me and was served a tender, juicy, melt in your mouth Braised Rabbit Special($20) with the same Burgundy mushroom sauce, smooth Yukon Gold potatoes, red peppers and green beans. I couldn’t have chosen better myself. Next time I think I’ll try Pan Seared Alaskan Halibut with Portabello Mushrooms($16). Doesn’t that sound delightful? Josh, Joey and Dustin are the dessert masters of the restaurant and treated us to a sample platter of all their favorites. Oh goodness, I was already stuffed but social graces demanded I try them all. (It’s my story, I can tell it like I want). The Carrot Cake was super moist and packed with nuts and raisins, Chocolate Whiskey Cake and Chocolate Cheese Cake were the chocoholics dream but my favorites (I couldn’t pick just one) were Rita’s own warm and sinful Pecan Sticky Buns and my personal weakness the crispy, creamy treat of the gods, Creme Brule. Our gluttonous dessert was served with Rita’s signature Dessert Martini from The Sage Hen’s full service bar; a coffee flavored, liquor cocktail topped with sweet cream and floating coffee beans. Can you believe I didn’t explode? Desserts and seafood specials change daily at The Sage Hen so you will have to drop in on Serge, Rita and the boys and see what they are serving up next time you are over Susanville way. Reservations are recommended for parties of 6 or more. Take out and a casual dinner menu with the old burger and pasta stand-bys are available for creatures of habit but I suggest the main dinner menu and trying something new. Neither menu has anything over a very reasonable $19. With prices like that I say we all visit The Sage Hen at 2975 Main St., Susanville, for breakfast, lunch or dinner and try everything, one tempting dish at a time.

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Sierra Sunrise - Greenville, CA

One of my favorite stops on the mountain roads of Plumas County has long been Sierra Sunrise Coffee House in Greenville. The small town atmosphere of Greenville’s Main Street takes you back in time. One may feel like they are visiting a simpler time and place of decades past. The beautiful mountain scenery surrounding this small town is for many reason enough to visit Greenville.

Right on Highway 89, in the center of Greenville, you will find locals perched at picnic tables, exchanging the morning’s news and views, in front of Sierra Sunrise. The scent of hot coffee and homemade muffins fills the air as we head in for a latte’ and a bite to eat. Much of the same continues inside as a group of local men share a table near the door. One more wanders in to join the group who appear to be regulars at the place.

Displays of art fill the walls of this coffee shop, with wide window views of the mountains beyond. Each day, they make homemade muffins of some sort and one popular menu item (which happens to be my personal favorite) is their muffin tops… you got it, the best part of the muffin adorned with its lightly sugared top! “Blueberry today,” she tells me. Who could resist? Since I would be sitting down to enjoy a meal today rather than my usual muffin top to go, I opted for the homemade cinnamon roll served warm. Yum! The fresh fruit cup with tasty melon and berries was hardly visible through the ‘optional’ whipped cream I couldn’t resist. We also tried their delicious biscuits and gravy which proved to be a hearty meal. They have an array of breakfast and lunch items including their famous breakfast burritos!

This small family business is located across the street from Greenville’s newly constructed Maidu Playground Park. Their small staff is full of personality and this quaint cafe’ is sure to please any appetite for breakfast or lunch. Stop and enjoy their full array of espresso drinks and smoothies while you meander through all of the great menu choices made fresh daily at Sierra Sunrise Coffee House. They are located right on Highway 89 in Greenville and can be reached at 530-284-6968.

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