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!

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.