DINNER: Sunflower cafe

Sunflower's Web site

I’ve heard about this place for years (mostly from the teachers at little C’s school) and after hearing that DC was going to skip a week, I decided to give the Sunflower café in Fair Oaks a whirl. I had heard AMAZING things about this mostly vegan place, so I asked Bernadette to join us so she could weigh in as well. This place is a kin to a drive-in — picnic tables outside and one long family style table inside the place. It’s super cute, just be prepared for the picnic style dining and take a look at the weather before you go since it's mostly outside. The menu includes things like veggie burgers, burritos, smoothies and the like. I had the black bean burrito — simple and natural; and it hit the spot. Just as you would expect, it was filled with black beans, sprouts, bosmotti rice and other natural goodies. Claire opted for the kids bean and cheese burrito - which came with a drink and a fruit leather. Our entire meals cost less than $10! Sweet. We began our dining adventure outside, where two rather large roosters greeted us. I don’t spend a lot of time in the city of Fair Oaks, but it seems that chickens, roosters and turkeys walking around is a daily and common occurrence around town. So, at first miss C liked the roosters.... until one jumped up on the table and snatched a piece of her burrito right out of her hands! Then, we promptly moved to the table inside that was rooster-free. B had the falafel which I had a bite of and determined was excellent. Be on the look out for her blog on this place. We will definitely be going back — but will keep the roosters in mind when we choose our seating!

LUNCH: 58 Degrees & Holding

58 Degrees & Holding's Web site

Every now and then, Suzanne and I hit up 58 Degrees & Holding for a weekday lunch. It's a hidden gem for the lunchtime crowd. Rarely is there more than a couple other patrons -- making for a cozy, private experience with attentive service. You can have a long, leisurely meal without worrying about them needing to turn the table, or you can request fast service if you're in a rush. 58 is one of my favorite places, but it is typically too packed for happy hour (I just can't enjoy a fancy glass of wine and apps while standing and looking around for a table to open up) and dinner. Small plate sampling is my favorite way of eating, and that's 58's specialty. The trio of bruschetta provides a variety of tasty options and the charcuterie and cheese plate selections are equally as scrumptious. I've never had a plate at 58 that I didn't demolish -- the inspired salads offer lovely flavor combinations and the entrees are always perfectly seasoned and delicious. And I will give any place snaps for offering half glasses of wine, as I like to sample beverages as much as I do food. Check it out for your next midtown lunch!

COCKTAILING: Frank Fat's

Frank Fat's Web site

RIP OFF! M-F are 1/2 off ALL martini specials at the bar at Fat's. I've gone several times. This past time the bar was packed and we asked if we could go ahead and sit at a table and still get the 1/2 off specials. They said yes. We sat down. After 6 very weak special martinis, we were charged $48 instead of $24. Unfortunately or fortunately, someone else had already picked up the tab for us by that time, but either way. We got ripped. There was firm agreement by many at the bar that the male evening bartender is quite the jerk (unless he knows you and you drop fat lobbyist cash). I will not go back anytime soon.... Be forewarned.

LUNCH: Capitol Dawg

I wanted to get out and about today and try something new, so Ray picked me up for lunch to go to the Capitol Dawg. Who knew there were so many varieties of hot dogs out there? I had to try something traditional, so went with the Prop. 51 Chicago dog, grilled, with mustard, green relish, onions, tomato, kosher dill pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt on a poppy seed bun. Ray went with the Los Angeles Deftones Dawg, which had mustard, chili, american cheese, and onions. The sweet potato fries were the biggest hit, though. I'd have to say we can probably cook better hot dogs/sausages, but it was a fun 1/2 hour and the hot dogs all had such fun and crazy names and toppings! For vegetarians: they have vegetarian dogs that yelp reviews have rated high. Location: next to Jack's in midtown.

LUNCH: Pearl on the River

Pearl on the River's Web site

Despite the fact that I live around the corner from Pearl On The River, I hadn't been -- until this week. I met an old friend for lunch at Pearl, a cute spot next to Chevy's on Garden Highway. I like the warm, chic environment and was impressed with the menu. I, however, was not impressed with my roasted beet salad -- the beets didn't seem fresh, and were dry. The barely dressed greens weren't much better. I can't believe they charge $9 for that plate. (I should have heeded Lisa's warning and tried something else.) I also sampled the clam chowder that arrived in cute slanted bowls, it was pretty good. The chicken sandwich was delicious, though, and accompanying fries were perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. I'd like to go back to Pearl for dinner or for happy hour (didn't get a chance to check out the wine list). But overall, I'll agree with Sandra's opinion -- it's not amazing, but it's a worthy option. I'd choose Pearl over Chevy's or Crawdad's any day.

LUNCH: Buckhorn Grill

Buckhorn's Web site

You go to Buckhorn for the tri-tip. Or something else meaty. I just ate their portabella sandwich. Not impressed. Nor have I been impressed with their salads. So, vegetarians beware (although the mashed potatoes are delicious - how can they not be with all that butter and salt?). Buckhorn Grill is a tasty spot for carnivores who need a quick bite.

LUNCH: Rio City Cafe

Rio City Cafe's Web site

I had lunch plans with my friend Megan today and we weren't sure where to go. Yes, there are lots of new places popping up downtown, but since we are located on Capitol Mall we decided to enjoy the Delta breeze and head for Old Town Sac. Rio City Cafe is the perfect spot right on the river. I mean, RIGHT on the river. I wasn't all that hungry so I had the Napa salad - very simple with mixed greens, sundried cherry vinaigrette, shaft’s Blue Cheese and grapes. It was fresh tasting and the dressing was delish as a dipping sauce to some bread. My only complaint is that it was definitely small - more like a starter salad -but our waitress did warn me about the size and it's only $6 so what would ya expect. My buddy had the chicken salad sandwich and swapped out the sweet potato fries for a healthy size of fresh fruit. It was a very relaxed lunch (over an hour) and even though they were pretty busy they didn't rush us and kept the water and iced tea flowing. If you are looking for wonderful patio dinning downtown, don't forget about Rio City. I bet it would make a perfect spot to watch the sunset, too!

COCKTAILING: Fox and Goose

Fox and Goose's Web site

Holy moly, Sandra! Chimay on tap!

LUNCH: California Pizza Kitchen

CPK's Web site

California Pizza Kitchen is an oldie but a goodie. I don't really like the atmosphere around Arden Mall, so the new CPK on L Street is much welcomed in the downtown parts. I ordered the Thai Chicken pizza, and my colleague ordered the fiesta pizza that came with extras like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. quite interesting looking! I love that the state requires certain chains to post calories and CPK has done so very nicely right on their menu. I definitely will go back, but I'm going to try something new next time. So far it's been packed, so go early and/or don't expect a short lunch.

DINNER: Pearl on the River

I have to say that Katie's last review of the sliders at "Pearl" per Sandra's post was pretty accurate. When they opened, we had tried the sliders and they were perfect. Katie had mentioned to us that they were a little dry, but ok. I just reordered them a couple nights ago, and they were dry!! I also had the beet salad again and found the lack of beets disappointing; it was more of an arugula/watercress salad than anything. When you're a beet freak, like I am, you expect more than just a couple chunks. On that note, Ray's chicken entree was delicious. The service is still friendly, and the patio view is very nice. We will go back again, but will keep trying different things. The Tangerine Wheat beer, though, is our favorite.

LUNCH: De Vere's Irish Pub

Again, the food was "eh," the beers fantastic. Soccer on the tube- great! Lots of space- great! Best thing on the menu besides beverages- the soups made daily.

DINNER: Frank Fat's

Frank Fat's Web site

Update - As of 5/29/09, Frank Fat's has a "recession" help-the-economy set menu for two for $38. We enjoyed every morsel, especially the potsickers and honey-walnut shrimp. Call ahead, though, in case they get rid of this deal soon!

LUNCH: Il Fornaio Cucina Italiana

Il Fornaio's Web site

A couple of us at work held a small private retirement lunch for a group of 12 at Il Fornaio the other day, and I would highly recommend for such functions. I've been to a rehearsal dinner there (my own), a wedding reception, and a bachelorette preparty-dinner, and every time they've done really well at accomodating our needs. Also a plus: they do not charge extra for the smaller private rooms, unlike Ella, which we had looked into first. We all, I think, had respectable lunches, although it sounded like most would try something different the next time. Lots of panini and salad orders (tonno and salmon); canneloni; risotto; turtei (lobster ravioli); and one special, the piatto smera, which had the rave review out of all the entrees (scallops, prawns, and calamari, over a toasted piece of french bread and a canneloni type bean). The favored dessert: tiramisu. I recommend for large groups, and their happy hour (free apps).

LUNCH: Phil's Fish Market: Moss Landing, CA

I know we don't blog about out of town places, normally, but Phil's Fish Market is easily one of the best fish markets around and easily accessible on vacations, such as to Monterey or Carmel. Phil took on Bobby Flay of the Food Network channel and won for the Cioppino cookoff. We highly recommend ordering one bowl of cioppino for two people.... It is enough for two. The east coast oysters on the half shell are another great option for appetizers. Don't sit in the "dining" area if possible; it reminds us of picnic benches in grade school. The bar is the best spot, and you sit next to the fish market and those lovely big chunks of tuna. Also, you can order Phil's online and have it shipped! Check it out!

DINNER: Ella Dining Room and Bar

Ella Dining Room and Bar's Web site

Recently, a prix fixe menu for Ella for April was emailed to us, so we thought we'd try it out. $25 Lunch and $35 dinner. Great prices, although the entrees are entrees from the lunch menu, which is ok, though, because if you break it down, you are definitely getting your moneys worth. As usual, the service and decor were excellent. The only downer- when we were seated no prix fixe menu was provided; we had to ask for it, which immediately had our waiter rushing us to pick our entrees and our wines ($20 wine pairings with each dish). He warmed up to us later, but still.... Don't advertise a prix fixe menu if you aren't going to be happy about honoring it! Not sure if they will have one next month, so go soon for the April menu (note- no substitutes and the small plate is their meatball plate (for you vegans)).

DINNER: Center Court

Center Court's Web site

Out of town people are fascinated by this place. I don't blame them! It's a great sports memorabilia bar, being that Chris Weber, former Kings' player, owns it. The food is always so-so, but if there's a game on, it's a great place. A friend from out of town and I went there, and had chicken fajitas and the grilled chicken sandwich. Both were respectable; they serve crazy cocktail mixed drinks with odd basketball names; V liked hers. I always order Blue Moon there. Note- If you are not wild about the club scene, the place turns a little hoochy after 9:00 PM on weekends. Apparently, cashmere sweaters are out on these babes.

LUNCH: De Vere's Irish Pub

de Vere's Web site

As compared to prices at Frank Fat's, see below, we went to lunch at De Vere's and for a 2:00 PM "lunner" ended up spending $50 for 4 beers, a bowl of soup, fish and chips, and a straight 15% tip. Not the best value for your buck nowadays (for all you value shoppers), but the ambience, I guess, is the reason to go. It's lively, loud, 2 bars, lots of draught options, and hot men playing soccer on the tube. The fish and chips were just so-so (2nd time I've heard that), but the soup was, again, the best thing tried. If you go -- order the soup.

LUNCH: The Counter - Custom Built Burgers

The Counter's Web site

Burgers ... everything a growing boy needs. My wife and I go to Whole Foods in Roseville every week because, oddly enough, the Whole Foods out there is a quicker trip for us (in Natomas) than the one on Arden. However, I don't mind going out to Roseville since right next to the Whole Foods is the newly minted The Counter (a.k.a. John's reward for chauffeuring his wife to Whole Foods). On the menu are burgers and...well, there may be other things on the menu, but who cares? The burgers are phenomenal, so why look at anything else? You can choose one of their tempting Signature Burgers, but why do that when you can exercise your creativity and adventurous streak and Build Your Own? The list of options is dizzying. You choose your meat, size and bread ... and then we get into the fun stuff. Want grilled pineapple, guacamole AND a fried egg on your burger? You got it (but that example sounds kinda gross, I only used it for emphasis). I've been to The Counter a few times and have settled on my favorite toppings: jalapenos, chilies, Dill pickles, fried onions and honey cured bacon. (Of course I don't put all of these on at the same time, it just depends on my mood.) Oh, and cheese, of course -- there are about 10 types from which to choose. Bernadette ordered the (boring) Counter Burger and wasn't crazy about the sun-dried tomato vinaigrette. Another time she ordered something with Gruyere cheese and carrots (weird) -- which she really enjoyed. Once, my sister Casey was on a diet and ordered a Chicken Burger -- which she ate but she was really drooling over our beef burgers. As for sides, I highly recommend the sweet potato fries. They have just the right amount of crunch to offset the juicy burger. And don't even think about dessert -- just order one of the shakes. They'll make them right there using a real milkshake machine. The only downside with The Counter is that it's always busy. (Even though there are several empty tables, they still tell us it'll be a 30-minute wait. Not sure why.) If there's only two of you, you can probably snag a seat at the counter -- which is the best place to sit. And, one more bit of advice: show up hungry.

LUNCH: de Vere's Pub

de Vere's Web site

My office has been so busy lately, so I decided to organize a unit lunch to boost morale. I wanted to try something new, so we went to De Vere's on L and 16th. As far as the food goes, we had a couple so-so's from my colleagues, and a big plus from me for the potato leek soup. Other meals tried were the chicken sandwich, cobb salad, fish and chips, and BLT with irish bacon. But, again- just average reviews. The soups are all made fresh, so I think my next trip may just be for soup, and of course, their own red ale. The place itself gets a plus- I can see myself going again, and describe it as a more polished Fox and Goose. I still love the goose, though, and Bonn Lair will forever be on the top of my list. Try De Vere's on St. Paddy's Day- the whole street will be closed off for them. Props to them for getting the city to sign off. Good addition, in general, to downtown. Food so-so. Beers- never bad.

LUNCH: Grange Restaurant

Grange Restaurnant's Web site

I was excited to try this nice new place but I have to admit I was disappointed. I work downtown so I was just a short walk away. I had pretty high expectations for Grange. It started well. The Citizen building is old and gorgeous and the space Grange occupies is also very well done. Our bread was rustic and fresh and served with an amazing herbes de Provence spread. Our appetizer was marinated olives served with flatbread drizzled with olive oil and topped with goat cheese. It was fine. The flatbread was grilled but looked soggy from the oil. I ordered the lunch special of a salad and fish tacos. I settled on the watercress and frisee salad with Point Reyes blue cheese and roasted pears. It looked a bit sad. I couldn't taste even a hint of the walnut vinaigrette, I had to search for the tiny crumbles of cheese, and the pears were flavorless. I ordered the overpriced Rosemary cocktail. I couldn't taste the rosemary at all but pieces of it kept floating into my mouth with each sip. My fish tacos on the other hand were outstanding, if a bit spicy. The fish was lightly fried and topped with cabbage and fresh green salsa. The beans that accompanied them were not bad. I also tried my friend's mushroom risotto. I am usually very disappointed when I order risotto in restaurants but this one was very good. It was earthy, flavorful, mushroomy and had a great consistency. My other friend ordered the Petrale Sole with French fries that he really enjoyed. I indulged in dessert for the sake of our readers. ;) The pudding cake was very good. In my eagerness to get to the best part of the meal I neglected to note the type of sauce it came with. I can tell you that it was a tasty liqueur sauce with candied fruit. And I'll even admit that I ate every last bite of it. Overall, for the hefty price (around $50 total for my lunch with tax and tip) I expected much better food.