SF Bay Area [Archive] - ConstantChatter

curlywig

06-29-2005, 02:51 PM

Disco,

I JUST got back to the house after spending the morning right by the GG Bridge (an area known as Chrissy Field). I wore pants, a cotton ribbed turtleneck and a fleece. It was sunny and foggy at the same time (high fog). I kinda wished I'd had a t-shirt on too b/c I was warm a bit, but I was fine.

Shorts might be okay as long as you're wearing a sweater or something warm up top. Fer sure at night you'd want to be in long pants/sleeves + sweater.

Strangely enough, our warmest times are in Sept/October. It's hard to tell you the average highs/lows in the city b/c we have serious microclimates that vary dramatically over the city. Downtown (the most eastern point of the city) tends to be the warmest in the summer and the other coastal and western points tend to be coolest/coldest).

HTH!

DiscoDiva

06-29-2005, 02:59 PM

Thank you so much everyone - all your input has been so helpful! Since I tend to be on the cold side, I think I'll stick to pants/jeans and layers on top. I appreciate it!!

Jennifer

06-29-2005, 04:52 PM

Just jumping in over here...I'm in the East Bay (Concord-ish too asianbear07).

Anyone know of exciting events for the weekend? We're visiting with family/friends on Saturday and Sunday - but trying to decide if we want to be out an about on the 4th.

(Disco - I find khaki weight cropped pants with a T/tank and light sweater/jacket to be good multipurpose casual wear in SF for the summer...many people call the coldest winter summer in SF...its not true when you compare SF to the rest of the country - but mid-summer isn't our warmest time!).

DiscoDiva

06-30-2005, 09:36 AM

Thanks all you ladies for the input! I just told DH what you said about the weather and he is disappointed that he won't be in a t-shirt and shorts when we're there. Hey, he can wear them all he wants, but he better not cry to me when he's freezing!! :)

ejs

06-30-2005, 02:13 PM

DD, I'm too lazy to look up who said it, but someone once said, "The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco."

As someone said, we have so many microclimates here in the Bay Area. It can be 90 in San Jose (50 miles south of SF) and 55 in SF at the same time. However, SF has hit the 90s also.

I recommend you look at weather.com's extended forecast before you leave. It will give you a better idea of what to expect on your trip.

irish74

07-01-2005, 10:36 AM

Hey ladies! I'm in SF and have been all my life, with the exception of a couple of years in San Mateo. Nice to see you all here, thanks for making the group.

ejs - That was Mark Twain that said that.

DD - The best recommendation is always to layer. If you are planning a trip to Alcatraz, definitely bring more than a sweatshirt/fleece. You will want something windproof, especially while you are on the boat. If I am taking someone out there, unless we are in the middle of a heat wave, I usually wear jeans, sneakers (lots of walking involved) a t-shirt, sweater/sweatshirt and a lightweight yet warm windbreaker. You can always take off the sweater or the windbreaker if you get warm. I'm pretty warmblooded and do wear shorts here sometimes, so you should bring a pair especially if you are going to spend any time in the burbs as the weather will generally be warmer there. If you need a local tourguide, let me know.

alisong

07-01-2005, 10:43 AM

Disco - I recommend cardigans. A bit more dressy than sweatshirts, and more versatile, too.

I'm in the East Bay, Alameda specifically. If anyone's looking for 4th plans, we have a great parade all through the island, then you can view the fireworks in the estuary between Alameda and Oakland.

macgirl

07-01-2005, 10:44 AM

Hey, nice to see some other east bay gals here. I've lived here for about 3 years and for the first time ever, I won't be going to my old home town for July 4th. So, is there anything around here I should try to do/see? Fireworks, parades, etc?

alisong I just saw your post. Maybe DH and I will check that out. We're over by Concord though.

MtySheera

07-01-2005, 10:57 AM

Hello everyone,

I'm in Gilroy, so much further south than most of you. But I've lived in the Bay Area my entire life. I love it here!

DD: Like ejs said, the weather can vary so much. It sounds like it was cooler in SF yesterday, while in our area of the Bay, it was 96!!

DiscoDiva

07-01-2005, 03:08 PM

You ladies are the best!

sfaugustbride, don't tempt me with a free tour guide, I may take you up on it! I'm so surprised at all the layers you said to wear on the boat, but I really appreciate the advice. I guess I'll be packing a few more sweaters than I had planned. :D

irish74

07-01-2005, 05:21 PM

DiscoDiva

07-01-2005, 08:00 PM

DD - Seriously, let me know if you want a tour, or just some suggestions. I love showing off my town. :) There are so many places and restaurants etc that are sort of off the tourist map but are really neat and not as crowded too.
Thanks! We will only be there for a few days and we'll be cramming in as much as possible, so I don't see us having any time to get out of the tourist trap. (....and I'll admit it, we kinda like the touristy things... :o )

I hope this isn't out of line, but I wouldn't mind having your phone number just in case we had some emergency and needed some kind of assistance (not monetary - hee hee). Or, who knows, maybe we'll end up having a night to go to dinner or something?

It would be cool if I could call you and talk to you IRL! :)

irish74

07-01-2005, 09:11 PM

DD - Email is sent, if you want to take your address down. :)

DiscoDiva

07-01-2005, 09:32 PM

Thanks, you're the best! (now if I can figure out a way to talk DH into tearing time away from the touristy stuff so I can call or meet you!)

smiles33

07-02-2005, 03:29 PM

Hi ladies!

Another East Bay gal checking in! We're more Southern East Bay though, as we're in the Tri-Cities area (Fremont/Newark/Union City).

I grew up in the South Bay (Saratoga/Cupertino/West San Jose) and my parents still live there. DH is from Fremont and ILs still live in the same house where he grew up (they moved in when MIL was pregnant w/DH).

No real July 4th plans for this weekend other than to veg out and go to a nice dinner at the restaurant at Wente Winery in Livermore tonight to belatedly celebrate our 3rd wedding anniversary w/the ILs. I love Wente--it's like a little known secret since it's out in Livermore and not Napa, but they have GREAT food at reasonable prices. Anyone else been there?

jki

07-03-2005, 07:43 PM

smiles! :) It's JenF/HCK/mojito from WC!! :D Nice to see you over here!! I migrated over to LJ after a troll incident but have signed up here to keep up the parenting boards (a wealth of information!). I am also pregnant with #2, due in a couple weeks. I hope that you are well! Happy Fourth of July!

I've never been to Wente but have been wanting to check it out! Let us know how your dinner was!

smiles33

07-04-2005, 11:30 AM

JEN!

Wow, you're expecting #2! Congrats! How are Baby J and Ham doing? ONce they get journals up, are you going to start one again? I probably will--DH and I are now TTC! :)

Wente was great, though much more crowded than in past years and a bit more upscale/pricey than before. I think they've been "discovered" so it wasn't as quiet and intimate as in the past. There were some more "upscale" touches, too, like how they served an amuse bouche, which they never did the other times we've gone in the past 5 years. And entree prices were all in the high 20s and 30s, as opposed to low 20s - high 20s.

Still, I enjoyed it! I started with a lemon drop cocktail (a special that night) and then a great artisanal cheese platter (fresh raspberries and balsamic roasted onions were tasty counterpoints to the cheese). For the main course, I chose the rack of lamb, enjoyed with a glass of the red Wente Crane Ridge Reserve, and finished with chocolate profiteroles (yummy!).

Sorry to take over this board for those not interested...:)

seattleguamgirl

07-04-2005, 11:52 AM

smiles--I love Wente! I live in Pleasanton so Wente is not too far from me. My brother (an avid golfer) recently played at the Wente golf course and LOVED it!

cubbear

07-04-2005, 05:19 PM

im in the san jose area

Jennifer

07-04-2005, 06:14 PM

smiles33 your Wente dinner sounded yummy! I've been meaning to head down there - thanks for the reminder :)

bluhimmy

07-04-2005, 06:40 PM

smiles33 - Nice to see you here. I totally remember you from our wedding planning days! :o I'm in the Tri-Cities area too. I've been wanting to try out Wente; thanks for the review. Maybe DH and I will get a chance to go there one day soon.

smiles33

07-04-2005, 08:56 PM

Glad to see my little random post about Wente was interesting to you!

seattleguamgirl do you have a favorite at Wente? I love their signature house smoked double cut porkchop, which is what DH and the ILs all ordered last night! But I have a thing for rack of lamb, too, though I think Wente's porkchop turned out better than the rack of lamb.

That's cool your brother went and liked it. I don't know many golfers, so I never knew if it was truly a good course or just locals who use it for convenience. I don't golf, so I have no idea whether it's good or not but I see people there golfing every time I visit (regardless of time or season). I even saw a bunch of golfers there last night, as it's still sunny until pretty late! There was also a wedding going on as we ate dinner, so we could see them out on the lawn. Their stage was also still set up, as I know they also have summer concerts out there, too!

Hi cubbear! Where in SJ are you? My parents still live in the same house I grew up in and I visit often, though things have changed SO much. I hear Santana Row (which I think is technically in Santa Clara?) is "the" place to be if you're single (or just looking for a nightlife!), which is good to hear as there was NOTHING to do for years.

Hey Jennifer how long does it take to get to Wente from Concord? Do you get stuck in traffic on 680? I actually have wanted to head out to Walnut Creek as I heard there's a great restaurant scene there, right?

I remember you, Bluhimmy! Good to "see" you around! How is everything? How trippy is it that some of the people whose journals I used to visit are here, too! I totally thought I was among the last few to still hang around (other than JenF, but her user name keeps changing so I never know she is here until she "outs" herself to me! :p ).

seattleguamgirl

07-05-2005, 10:12 AM

smiles33-I haven't eaten at Wente, just went wine tasting there. I'll have to tell DH about the double cut pork chop--that is his favorite thing to order! Maybe we'll go to dinner there before we move...

Greg Norman (a pro golfer) designed the course at Wente. My brother, who is in the championship flight back home, said the course is great and challenging.

Kristibell

07-06-2005, 08:34 AM

I'm in Los Gatos, moved here after I got married. I grew up in Milpitas. My DH is from Saratoga, so I moved to his area, but I love it.

It's great to see so many bay area ladies here!

Natasha

07-06-2005, 12:14 PM

So cool to see all these bay area ladies, especially from the "Concord-ish" area!

richgal

07-06-2005, 04:50 PM

We're renting a beach house in Santa Cruz for a friend's bachelorette weekend, anyone have any recs on fun places to eat and/or go for spa treatments? It's going to be a pretty mellow weekend (bride's request), so we'll probably do a lot of hanging out on the beach, and lounging around the house, but I'm trying to collect some options as well... We'll have cars, so surrounding areas (Capitola, Aptos, etc.) are okay, too.

Thanks in advance! :)

jki

07-07-2005, 08:13 AM

smiles33:
Hey! Baby #2 is due on July 13 - she and Jackson will be 13 months apart. Things are going to be crazy and it's amazing to think our family has doubled in size since our wedding 3 years ago. I am maintaining a journal over at LiveJournal.com (http://www.livejournal.com/users/jki/). It's great because you can designate which users can read your journal.... really helpful when posting baby pictures or rude comments about your MIL! ;)

So exciting that you are starting to TTC! :) Will you be a SAHM or continue working full/part time after the baby?

Wente sounds delish! We will have to check it out. Thanks for posting your review of it!

richgal:
I went to a great restaurant in Santa Cruz that I would recommend - Cafe Cruz (http://www.cafecruz.com/dinner.shtml#dinner_starters). It's actually near the mall in a strange location, but the food and wine there are delicious - I think it might be an appropriate place for the bachelorette party!

As for spas, I have been to the spa at Chaminade (http://www.chaminade.com/spa.cfm) and found it to be ok. We stayed there for a work event. I don't know if you might be able to find something better and more modern.

cubbear:
Hey! Good to see you over here!

cubbear

07-07-2005, 12:01 PM

i feel welcomed. i'm in san jose west about 20 minutes away from the famous santana row. in all honesty i think they're trying to make san jose look like souther california. i still like it here :)

flygirl

07-07-2005, 12:14 PM

Goodness, how much your posts make me miss home. We moved from Moraga (between Oakland & Walnut Creek - you won't believe how many natives have never heard of it) to TX last year. Talk about an adjustment ;). It took me a lloonngg time to get over my homesickness, and of course any talk of it brings it all back. *sigh*Time for another visit.

ginandchris

07-08-2005, 11:22 AM

Can I join too? My DH and I live in the peninsula, but both work in SF. So we commute together every day. DH grew up in the city, but prefers the peninsula. I grew up in Salinas (near Monterey) then moved up here after college and since then have lived in San Jose and the peninsula. Nice to meet everyone! :)

smiles33

07-09-2005, 10:30 AM

Hi ladies! So I'm actually heading up to Berkeley today for Ethiopian food...it's the only city I know of that has a few choices, but I thought I'd ask if anyone has any recommendations for Ethiopian food in other cities. I first tried Ethiopian food in DC when I was out there 10 years ago for a college internship (Adams Morgan has a number of great places!) and then went I ended up in Berkeley for law school, I rediscovered it and really love it. TIA!

DiscoDiva

07-09-2005, 12:02 PM

I LOVE San Francisco!!

DH and I just came back from a 4 day trip there, and we loved it! I loved the streets, the eclectic diversity of the people, the everything! We walked everywhere, from Union Square to Fisherman's Wharf, to Coit Tower to the curvy part of Lombard Street.

Thanks goes out to all of you who gave me tips on the weather - you were so right!

A special thanks goes out to sfaugustbride for giving me your phone number. DH and I never had any emergencies, nor did we have any time to try and catch up with you as I had hoped. However, I greatly appreciate the offer and I know I can ALWAYS rely on the good ladies of the CC!

curlywig

07-09-2005, 06:24 PM

Disco: SOOOO happy you had a great time! SF is a great city, but having lived in SF for quite a while now, the "summer" weather does get to me. Just got back from a bridal shower in the Central Valley, and I saw SUN!!!! It was amazing! I'd love to move, but DH is a 5th generation SF'er, so the chances of that happening are slim!

Did you have any great meals while you were here? I'd love to know where you went and if it met expectations or not.

DiscoDiva

07-10-2005, 12:28 AM

The absolute best meal we had our whole time there was Italian food at Ciopelli's (sp?) near Fishermans' Wharf (If I'm remembering right, it was at the corner of Leavenworth and some other street...) It was the most fantastic Italian food we've ever had, plus the service was outstanding. The thing we did wrong was have it for our first meal. After that, nothing else was as good.

We ate at Lori's Diner, and liked it. Loved their carrot cake!

Ate at Swiss Louis on Pier 39, NOT very good Italian food. It tasted like Ragu or Chef Boy R Dee. Service was not good either. Our worst meal was here.

The worst service we got was at Dante (is that the name?) on Pier 39. The server kept forgetting us, she forgot our bread, we were left alone for at least 20 minutes at a time, no refills, you name it. The horrible service ruined our meal. The only good thing was their foccacia bread - YUMMY!!!!

Had a great breakfast croissant at Cafe Francisco.

We want to go back to SF just to eat at Ciopelli's again!

Natasha

07-10-2005, 01:09 AM

Disco--Which Lori's? I used to work for Lori's. They have some pretty good desserts, but if memory serves, they don't actually make the carrot cake, lol. At least they carry a good brand, heehee...

bluhimmy

07-10-2005, 12:05 PM

smiles33 - I remember there being an Ethiopian restaurant in San Jose on First St, not far off from 880, called Red Sea. It's been there for a long time; always wanted to try it, but never got around to it.

DiscoDiva

07-10-2005, 12:13 PM

Disco--Which Lori's? I used to work for Lori's. They have some pretty good desserts, but if memory serves, they don't actually make the carrot cake, lol. At least they carry a good brand, heehee...

We went to the Lori's at Union Square. I've worked with caterers for years, so I know the carrot cake is the pre-made type. Actually, I know of very few restaurants that actually make their own desserts anymore. Still, it was GOOD!!!!

Natasha

07-10-2005, 06:24 PM

Thats a cool Lori's. They are really fun to visit. Uhhh, lets see...Marie Callendars makes their own desserts, but Bakers Square doesn't. The pies are actually made off site and then shipped in. Actually, of all the restaurants I have worked in, MC is the only one I know of to actually make their own desserts...lol

tonic

07-10-2005, 07:42 PM

Hi! My husband and I recently relocated to the bay area (south bay). After much searching, we finally bought a house in San Jose (near Campbell/Saratoga border) and are very excited. We have only been here a few weeks and love it!!

Anyways.. just thought I would say hi!

Jennifer

07-10-2005, 10:19 PM

tonic welcome to the area :)

SiValleySteph

07-11-2005, 08:47 AM

smiles33,

According to our Eritrean friend from Berkeley, the best Ethiopian food in the Bay Area is in West San Jose at Saratoga Ave & Payne Ave. The restaurant is called Zeni's. Once we were there with our friend and he ran into someone he went to elementary school with in Eritrea! Wow! Luckily for us, this is less than 5 minutes from our house, so we go there a lot! We were just there last Thursday! If you are adventurous, I would recommend the Kitfa. It's raw beef, but oh-so-good.

***

I should say Hello! We live in West San Jose, I love our location! We are about 5 minutes from so much -- Santana Row, Valley Fair, downtown Campbell, Westgate, etc. Everything is close by for shoppping (we got our upscale, our mall, our Target, Home Depot, 2 Trader Joes, Whole Foods, etc.). Plus, we have wineries close by (Santa Cruz Mountains), hiking, food, etc... tonic, we are probably really close to each other!

I'm not a native, but next month marks 5 years in the Bay Area for me. I don't see us leaving anytime soon! I've lived in Richmond, Union City, Sunnyvale and now San Jose. We steadily made our way South from grad school in Berkeley to jobs in the South Bay.

BryantRN

07-11-2005, 09:08 AM

Hello!!
I am so happy to see this thread. I love talking to the "locals". I live in the East Bay and have been here for a year. I am still learning the area and love to chat about stuff that is going on up here. I have a question for anyone in the Berkeley area, do you know of a good massage place? I am so in need of a massage and always rather to get a good referral instead of just going in blind. Thanks.

~Renee~

irish74

07-11-2005, 11:35 AM

DD - So glad you had a good time and that you were prepared for the weather. I was on vacation last week so I haven't been around much the past few days and hadn't seen your post. :)

richgal

07-11-2005, 01:45 PM

jki - Thanks for the SC recs! I'm off to check out Cafe Cruz. :)

smiles33, bluhimmy - I've actually been to Red Sea... several times with work, but not too recently. It was good, but not as good as in Berkeley. I haven't been to the place SiValleySteph mentioned yet, but now I'm intrigued! :)

DD - glad you had a great visit!

tonic - Welcome!

SiValleySteph

07-11-2005, 01:56 PM

Hey richgal! Remember me from wedding planning journals!?!? :D It's been a while...

Definitely give Zenis a try if you like Ethiopian. Once we ate there during a power failure by candlelight. :p

***

Speaking of restaurants, anyone want to throw out a few recommendations?

We are going to Gary Danko at the end of the month and I am looking forward to that. I think we even have a babysitter - hallelujah! We've never been there before, but I'm already impressed by there niceness. They said it would be no problem if we had to bring our baby even though they're not really a "child-friendly" restaurant and they would be accomodating.

Let's see...

We just went to Thea Mediterranean at Santana Row last week. It's the newest restaurant there (we had finally completed the restaurant circuit there when this one opened, so of course we had to go!). I really liked it. I had the Mousakka and it was delish. We had a feta and roasted red pepper blended dip for appetizer and it was quite good. DH had mussels. The interior of the restaurant is very dramatic and beautiful - very high ceilings, all airy and open.

ginandchris

07-11-2005, 03:18 PM

SiValleySteph-- you are really going to enjoy Gary Danko, my DH and I love that place. We've already been there twice this year. Even though it is pricey it is really worth it. We did the 5 course tasting menu and it was awesome! Gary Danko really lives up to the reputation. Let me know what you think.

As for other rec's we've also gone to:

Aqua (SF)-- same price range as Gary Danko, but the food is not as good. We did get to taste a lot though, we did the chef's tasting menu which is 7 courses.

Swan Oyster Depot (SF)-- this place is really good if you like "no frills" fresh seafood. They have crab cocktail, which is just meat no shells! plus the oysters are great too. The place is very small only 17 or so seats along a long bar. Its kind of rustic, but really good if you want fresh seafood.

bluhimmy

07-11-2005, 03:40 PM

smiles33 & richgal - I'm not sure if Red Sea is still there in SJ; I couldn't find it on Yahoo yellow pages. There's one in Oakland though.

SiValleySteph - Is Zenis a baby/toddler friendly place? Been wanting to try Ethiopian food for years, but I have no idea what to order.

* * *

Okay, here's a last minute request. Any recommendation for the Monterey/Carmel area? We're taking off tomorrow for a few days, so I'm looking for some good places to eat. Of course, will need to be baby friendly since it's a family trip. :)

So far on the agenda, to visit Monterey Bay Aquarium, and to hit my favorite lunch spot in Carmel, Flaherty's Oyster Bar!

SiValleySteph

07-11-2005, 03:55 PM

bluhimmy, Zeni's is relatively baby/toddler friendly. I bring DS with me and I see kids there all the time. They do have high chairs. The only problem I have with eating dinner there is that you eat with your hands, so it's impossible to hold a kid while eating. Your son is older than mine, so you might have outgrown this already, but my son is 9 months and can't always last in the high chair for the whole meal. The other thing that causes me to panic is that the restaurant is pretty small and it's not a noisy place, so I worry when DS gets fussy and get frantic trying to quiet him. :rolleyes: Not that anyone's ever given us any trouble, but you probably know what I mean. Some good things to order are the Ye Doro Tibs and the Ye Begs Tibs, one is chicken and one is lamb. You can get it "sizzling" or "juicy" - we usually get the lamb sizzling and the chicken juicy, but both are good! You eat the food with pieces of injera which is a thin spongy bread. Yummy! :D

We've only been to Monterey/Carmel once after baby and the places I'm thinking of from before aren't really kid friendly. All I know is don't go to Bubba Gumps though if you are nursing. Gawd. That was horrible trying to nurse DS with so many people around and right up in your business. I tried to take it to the restroom and the place only had 2 stalls for a giant restaurant, so it was packed! Disclaimer - I realize Bubba Gumps is a silly chain, but my hubbie loves the bucket of shrimp. :cool:

ginandchris, I think we'll get the tasting menu at Gary Danko. We're so looking forward to it!

smiles33

07-11-2005, 04:40 PM

Hi everyone! Oh, I can't wait to try Zeni's--thanks for the tip, SiValleySteph. I went to Ethiopia Restaurant in Berkeley Saturday and it was good, though service was slow (the 2 of us were the only ones there and it still took over 30 minutes to get our meal). I loved my lamb dish, and my girlfriend got a vegetarian platter that looked good, too. The injera was not as tangy/sour as I remember from other places, but it might just be my memory.

Bluhimmy, I probably already missed you, but if you check on-line and see this while you're out there, there is a cute breakfast diner in downtown Carmel that seems very kid-friendly and had great pancakes. I can't recall the name, but I recall it was pretty well-known with locals and easy to find whiel strolling around. I want to say it's a block or two from the Villeroy & Boch store (I remember looking for our pattern after breakfast).

My favorite part of a trip to Carmel is the Cheese Shop, but I don't think that's something lots of kids like. There are also really casual places (like the burger joint near the American Tin Cannery outlets that we stopped in) that are family-friendly. Hope you find some good options!

BryantRN, I'm afraid I never got a reasonably priced massage while in Berkeley (I went to Claremont once but it was EXTREMELY expensive, like $250 for a massage/sauna package I think), but if you're willing to drive south, my MIL goes regularly to Family Massage Therapy in Fremont.

I absolutely love eating, but DH and I don't get up to SF very often anymore. Most of the places we hit now are mom-and-pop places in the Fremont/Union City area (Massimo's, Pearl's, Manna Korean restaurant, Bombay Garden, Banh Thai, Peking House). I'll have to live vicariously through you ladies!

bluhimmy

07-12-2005, 04:25 PM

SiValleySteph - LOL. Believe it or not Bubba Gump is on the list. DH insists on going there at least once. :o Thanks for the suggestions for Zeni's; I want to try going there soon.

smiles33 - Thanks for the tip on the breakfast place. DH loves breakfast, so we'll have to ask around about it.

ejs

07-12-2005, 05:11 PM

Hi all,
Any recommendations for a casual lunch place in SF? Preferably American or seafood cuisine. Easy access to/from the Golden Gate Bridge; preferably with a view.

My dad's going to be in SF on Saturday, so we're meeting him for lunch.

Thanks!

BryantRN

07-12-2005, 08:25 PM

Blu~
We just recently went to Bubba Gump's and I have to say that I was not impressed. It was okay food, but the prices were way high for what you are getting :eek: . And you have to put up with all of the waiters asking you Forrest Gump trivia questions while you are trying to eat!! We had never been and it was kinda a touristy thing to do so we tried it, but I think that any of the other seafood restaruants at the Pier would be better than that. You can check out their menu online.

Smiles~
I think everything in Berkeley is pretty much overpriced! I don't think that I want to go to the Claremont! What about Albany? Anything good over that way. Freemont is kinda far for me, I live in Berkeley.

~Renee~

bluhimmy

07-12-2005, 11:18 PM

smiles33 - It's funny to see the places you mentioned since I actually have been to most of them. Pearl's is one of my favorite places in Fremont. It's been a while since we've been there, like Valentine's 2004. Haven't gone to Massimo's in years... Where's Peking House? That one I'm not familiar with. My favorite Chinese in Tri-City area is Su Gia in Newark. So your MIL likes Family Massage Therapy in Fremont? I had thought about going there for pre-natal massages back last year, but I didn't know if it was any good. But if I remember correctly, their prices were reasonable.

BryantRN - I'm not too thrilled that DH wants to hit Bubba Gump. I went there once, years ago, and I wasn't too impressed either. DH has never been there, so he wants to do the "touristy" thing I guess...

richgal

07-13-2005, 03:04 PM

Hi SiValleySteph -- of course I remember you. :) I cannot believe you have been to ALL the restaurants at Santana Row!! So do share: What are your most and least faves? I've only been to about 1/3 of the restaurants there, so I'm always looking for the next place to try...

---

As for other favorite restaurants... most of mine are breakfast places. :) It's my favorite meal of the day, but I hardly ever really eat it. My three faves are Stacks, The Original Pancake House (not to be confused with IHOP), and Hobee's. All of them have multiple locations, but some are better than others. Especially true for Hobee's (some of them are really dumpy).

Other random favorites: Amber India for northern Indian food (but only the Mountain View location, I don't like the Santana Row one), the new Cupertino Dynasty Seafood Restaurant for dim sum, Yas and Chelokababi for Persian food...

Those are the only interesting ones I can think of off the top of my head. We tend to visit a lot of hole-in-the-wall Chinese restaurants (our very favorite one is Silver House in San Mateo for Cantonese-style food).

Jennifer

07-13-2005, 03:15 PM

smiles33 I'm coming back pages later to say that Wente should only be about 30 minutes from WC...and yup tons of great places up here! :)

ejs I can't think of anything on the SF side of the bridge that's good, we are usually more downtown/union square/northbeach for lunch/dinner...but there are some good places on the Sausalito side of the GG bridge (with views) if you have an interest in meeting your dad over there?

laura

07-13-2005, 04:07 PM

I still think we're "new" to the area, but we've actually lived on the peninsula for ~1.5 years now.

So great to hear good things about Gary Danko & Zenis since they are both on our list to try. We also go to Hobee's pretty regularly, my husband LOVES breakfast. :p

I'm blanking on other restaurants we've been to - oh, Ellsworth 321 in San Mateo is excellent, and Spago in Palo Alto is nice, but I've only been for lunch (though we did go to the one in Maui for dinner, and that was outstanding). The Steelhead in Burlingame is good for a brewpub - well, good beer, the food is so-so; Kincaid's in Burlingame is another favorite. We also like Little Sichuan, Joy Luck Place, and Poncho Villa Taqueria in San Mateo, as well as Tamarine in Palo Alto.

We don't get to the city for dinner a lot, but we're planning to meet my MIL up there for dinner in early August (she's in town for business) - any recs? We are thinking of Slanted Door or Gary Danko, but we are flexible. (It's a week night, if that makes a difference.) She is much more adventurous than my FIL, so we want to "treat" her since he isn't going to be along, which is why we thought of Slanted Door. She also likes things that are fun/trendy so she can go back to Boston and tell everyone she went there. ;) :p

ginandchris

07-13-2005, 04:18 PM

Hi laura,

I live in the peninsula too. I was wondering have you ever tried Izzy's Steakhouse in Redwood City? My DH and I have wanted to try it, but wanted to some feedback first. TIA! :)

laura

07-13-2005, 06:43 PM

Hi laura,

I live in the peninsula too. I was wondering have you ever tried Izzy's Steakhouse in Redwood City? My DH and I have wanted to try it, but wanted to some feedback first. TIA! :)

Hi Gina :) - Yes, we have tried Izzy's. It was something else when we first moved here (we stayed at that hotel right there when we did our house hunting trip; my husband's company put us up there), so once it switched, we checked it out. I think we've been twice, with friends. It was good, I would recommend it. We personally prefer Kincaid's in Burlingame more, but Izzy's was good (and maybe a tiny bit less expensive?). (Also, I've bypassed the long wait for Izzy's by making a reservation online - I seemed to get better results than calling directly.) Have you been to Kincaid's?

colbasa

07-14-2005, 08:34 AM

EJS--When they visit, my parents love McCormack & Kuleto's for lunch. It's a seafood place in Ghirardelli Square with a great view of the bay and GG bridge. It's also great for groups.

Natasha

07-14-2005, 12:18 PM

Anyone have any thoughts on the Sir Francis drake hotel? FH and I are considering using it as our wedding venue...

irish74

07-14-2005, 02:48 PM

richgal - The Original Pancake House (not to be confused with IHOP), Like the one in Millbrae? Oh that is one of my all time favorites. I've loved that place since I was a kid. :D Now I am having swedish pancake visions. :p

ginaandchris - We've gone to Izzy's, it's good, just spendy. I also like Kincaids better.

We used to live in San Mateo, while we were there we really liked Windy City Pizza Good Chicago style pizza, open pretty late (it is in the little shopping center where 92 hits El Camino, a little hole in the wall Chinese place by the name of Pierre's it is kind of funky, but the food is good & super cheap (it's right by the hospital downtown), the pasta place by the Blockbuster on 4th was pretty good for something casual. I think the only place we absolutely hated was 321 Ellsworth. First Watch is a great spot for breakfast too. La Cumbre by the train station for burrittos & tacos is awesome.

We live in Noe Valley, in the City, now, that's where I grew up so I think we have been to every restaurant in the area quite a few times except for Firefly because we have no reservation making skills. :rolleyes:

Laura - I highly reccomend the Slanted Door. The food is great & as a person I really like Charles Phan so I always try to recommend people to go there. :D

irish74

07-14-2005, 02:51 PM

ejs - I meant to reply to you, but spaced. It may seem touristy, but have you thought of the Cliff House. It's convenient to the GG Bridge & has parking. The food has always been good & the view is fantastic. You can either eat downstairs (more casual) or upstairs (more upscale). It's American/seafood cuisine which I think was what you were looking for.

smiles33

07-14-2005, 03:15 PM

Hey Blu--Hope you found that breakfast diner in Carmel and it lived up to expecations. FYI, Peking House (if I'm remembering correctly, as I know their Chinese name better--Dong Lai Swin, though I'm sure it's totally wrong pingying) is a little white and green building right in front of the Tri-City Sporting Goods store. I'm blanking on the street name, but it's between Blacow and Fremont Blvd. They were REALLY popular in Campbell but sold that restaurant and then moved to Fremont and opened a new one. It's always packed, so we got exactly at 11 am on the weekends to beat the crowds.

I think DH and I were at Pearl's for V-day 2004, too! They had a set menu and we were so disappointed as the quality wasn't as good as usual. It used to be our favorite restaurant in Fremont. I wasn't impressed at all by Le Papillon, the only French restaurant in Fremont (that I know of).

We ate at Su Gia in Newark 2 weeks ago for the first time, but the waitress made the experience uncomfortable--she was very judgmental (she made a face/rolled her eyes when she learned my brother, DH, and I don't read or write Chinese), shared too much info about herself (talking about her neck/shoulder pain while we're eating as she set down bowls/plates), and then complimenting my brother when he asked for a to-go container (she said something like, "Good to see young people being conservative and saving food."). WEIRD.

Richgal--I LOVE Stack's in Campbell (went twice in one week when I first learned about it) but it's too far to go very often now. I usually prefer dinner out, but when we do grab breakfast, there's an IHOP and an Original Pancake House within a 20 minutes' drive of me, as well as Country Way (in Fremont) and Baldi's in Union City that we like to hit. There's a Hobee's by my workplace but we don't really have breakfast meetings so I haven't been there in ages.

asianbear07 - Sir Francis Drake is a nice hotel, and a bit cozier in terms of size (not as massive scale). I was just there for a conference so I got to see a lot of their rooms and the ballroom is reasonably sized but not gargantuan. My favorite nice hotel ballroom is the one up the street, Westin St. Francis. Now that hotel has a HUGE ballroom. I've been there for numerous nonprofit fundraising dinners, 800+ guests, possibly even 1000+ guests. It's so elegant and just gorgeous! And, the Michael Mina Restaurant there has a beautiful lounge (we go grab drinks there whenever I'm in SF).

laura--if you're on the peninsula and like Chinese food, you've got to try Daly City's Koi Palace (great dim sum!) or Millbrae's Hong Kong Flower Lounge. I don't know many other places on the upper Peninsula, as we have only driven out to those 2 restaurants.

In terms of restaurants that haven't been mentioned yet, I just had lunch at Zibibbo (sp?) in Palo Alto yesterday and LOVED it. It's got such charming air about it, starting from its somewhat Victorian/house-like appearance outside, and then it's a bit surprising to see the distinct different settings indoors (outdoor garden patio and very sleek decor further inside). I think it's so cute and has great food.

Natasha

07-15-2005, 11:37 AM

Thanks, smiles! We are looking at a guestlist of around 100 or so, so a smaller scale is ok with us!

ejs

07-15-2005, 12:52 PM

Rave: We just attended a wedding at Mission Ranch in Carmel (www.missionranchcarmel.com). We stayed there Saturday night. It is a really neat place. We stayed in a tri-plex room; a nice-sized room. We sat on the back porch, which overlooked a meadown with grazing sheep, and we could see the dunes and the water. The only food we had there was at the reception, but it was tasty.

tonic

07-15-2005, 11:14 PM

smiles33,
I should say Hello! We live in West San Jose, I love our location! We are about 5 minutes from so much -- Santana Row, Valley Fair, downtown Campbell, Westgate, etc. Everything is close by for shoppping (we got our upscale, our mall, our Target, Home Depot, 2 Trader Joes, Whole Foods, etc.). Plus, we have wineries close by (Santa Cruz Mountains), hiking, food, etc... tonic, we are probably really close to each other!

I'm not a native, but next month marks 5 years in the Bay Area for me. I don't see us leaving anytime soon! I've lived in Richmond, Union City, Sunnyvale and now San Jose. We steadily made our way South from grad school in Berkeley to jobs in the South Bay.

Hi SiValleySteph!! We are probably really close to each other. I am so excited to move into our house because its so close to everything.. just as you said! We are slowly learning the area and loving it. So much to see and do... I just wish I didn't have to work so much ;)

justHB

07-17-2005, 09:54 PM

I'm joining late to the game ...

My DH and I currently live in Oakland, but lived in SF (both Pacific Heights and the Haight) before buying in the East Bay. He grew up over here, and I love it, so we're smiles all around.

Some of my favorite restaurants in SF include Yank Sing, Slanted Door, Belden Place for after dinner drinks, Kanzaman, Tommy's Joynt (for pastrami sammiches), Taqueria Cancun, Town Hall, Havana, Park Chow, and Le Colonial. I also recently tried One Market for the first time and was really impressed by both the food and the service.

In Berkeley/Oakland/Alameda, I am a big fan of Zachary's, Tachibana, Il Porcelino, Spettro, Cafe Coluci, Speisekammer, and a handful of random places we go frequently that I can't recall the names of.

Question: What is everyone's favorite activity to do in their area?

ginandchris

07-20-2005, 10:21 AM

Laura--Thanks for the info, I will pass it on to my DH and hopefully we'll get to try out Izzy's. I have seen Kincaid's but have never been, so I will put it on my list.

If you like Japanese, my DH and I always go to this small little place in Redwood City called Higuma. Its right on El Camino just past Whipple. The sushi is very good and not as expensive as other places we've been too. My DH really likes sushi so we go there at least once a week.

Also, if you like italian, the Pasta Pomodoro in San Mateo is really good. We like the food there as well. Its pretty consistent and the price is nice as well.

JustHB--Hmm, in our area (peninsula) we like our area a lot. My DH grew up in SF so he really enjoys the good weather, free parking, and plentiful variety of stores. :)

jki

07-20-2005, 10:53 AM

Question: What is everyone's favorite activity to do in their area?

In the 11 years I've lived in SF and one year I've lived in Marin, my favorite activity still has to be going to Angel Island. I love the ferry ride over there, the easy hikes, and the spectacular views. We usually take the first or second ferry out, hike a little, pack a picnic lunch, lounge on a secluded beach and head home before the horrible crowds start. OR - we try to go on a weekday! :D

Vegastrtle

07-21-2005, 10:35 AM

In the 11 years I've lived in SF and one year I've lived in Marin, my favorite activity still has to be going to Angel Island. I love the ferry ride over there, the easy hikes, and the spectacular views. We usually take the first or second ferry out, hike a little, pack a picnic lunch, lounge on a secluded beach and head home before the horrible crowds start. OR - we try to go on a weekday! :D

OOhhh...I haven't been to Angel Island in YEARS (my parents used to have a sail boast...we'd sail over and spend the night on the boat...this was over 20 years ago). Maybe I'll do that one day this summer.

smiles33

07-23-2005, 01:21 PM

Vegastrtle

07-23-2005, 02:01 PM

Hey ladies, please share your favorite Napa Valley restaurants! DH and I are taking Monday off for a day trip and I'm trying to find a new restaurant to try for lunch.

I am trying to look for a moderately priced restaurant (under $30 for entrees) and we're both open to any cuisines. I went to opentable.com and found some places but would love to have personal recommendations since those reviews they link to are often years old.

TIA!

Taylor's Refresher is good..outdoor seating...maybe a little too moderate. I also enjoy going to the V. Sattui winery and having a picnic on their lawn (they have a deli as well as wine). There are some really good places on Lincoln Avenue in Calistoga..but I don't know their names.

Have fun!

la_Mer

07-23-2005, 02:11 PM

I just had lunch at Tra Vigne (http://www.travignerestaurant.com/) about a month ago. The food was fabulous! We sat inside but it looked like they had very nice patio seating as well. I think the entrees were in the $20 price range.

If you want something more casual there is a pretty decent Mexican restaurant (more Tex-Mex I guess) in Yountville called Compadres.

Have a great time!

smiles33

07-23-2005, 04:21 PM

Thanks for the suggestions! If we weren't on a budget, I would totally try Domaine Chandon, as I've heard such great things about it. I may go and post on chowhound and see if they have suggestions about how to find a Domaine Chandon type restaurant but on a lower budget. :)

Vegastrtle, I think one of our friends recommended Taylor's Refresher's before as it sounds so familiar--it's like an upscale diner, right? I think I'm looking for something a little more complex, the kind of food we can't cook at home.

We, too, have picnicked at V. Sattui before, as "Uncle" Giorgio is very generous with the tastings, so we bought some cheese and bread and sobered up outside! But your suggestion about Calistoga reminds me about how last time we went up there back in Winter 2004, we went to All Seasons Cafe on Lincoln in Calistoga. I love their butternut squash soup! If I can't find anything new, I'd definitely go back there as I saw a lot of items on their menu that I wanted to try.

la_Mer, I've also been to Tra Vigne a few times with girlfriends so I think we may skip it this time around. I've never sat outside before, though. Given how nice the weather has been, an outdoor patio does sound lovely so maybe I'll keep that in mind when looking over the list of restaurants on opentable.com.

I'll keep you all posted about where we end up going and maybe even add a little "review" when we get back!

Jennifer

07-24-2005, 12:55 PM

smiles33 We recently had dinner at Martini House in St Helena - really fabulous food - slightly expensive, but I think most entrees (esp at lunch) fit your price goal...both DH and I weren't sure what they do that is so different than how we cook at home - but definitely things were at a whole 'nother level, it's definitely been added to our new favorites list! We also love Rutherford Grill - a bit less complex offerings - but really solid (and we love the spinach artichoke dip!). I've had really good meals at the Napa Valley Grille in Yountville (we had our rehearsal dinner there) and at Bistro Don Giovanni in Napa. It often gets mixed reviews, but we've been to Brix twice and both times were horribly disappointed in the food - and when coupled with the price we paid we were doubly disappointed. We also like Bistro Jeanty in Yountville.

A Monday up in the valley instead of the office sounds great :D

smiles33

07-24-2005, 02:14 PM

Hey Jennifer, great suggestions! I visited the websites and decided to make a reservation at the Napa Valley Grille....I hope to try the seared Hokkaido scallops!

I had wanted to try Martini House but they only offer lunch on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. :( Apparently a few places don't offer lunch, as I had also hoped to try Terra (which had FABULOUS reviews on chowhound!).

FYI, when I googled Rutherford Grill, I found a message board that says it's basically a Houston's but renamed because Rutherford didn't allow the chain to use the name. The spinach artichoke dip that Houston's in SF offers was my favorite thing on their menu!

bluhimmy

07-24-2005, 04:49 PM

smiless33 – The breakfast you were talking about in Carmel, was it called The Cottage? We didn’t go since we already had breakfast beforehand, but it was such a cute little place.

Peking House, I totally know which one you’re talking about; it’s on Grimmer. DH and I got there for take-out once in a while, but never had dim sum there. BTW, have you ever been to the European Day Spa that’s across the street? I’m totally curious about trying them out…

OMG, I think I might have seen you there at Pearl’s for V-Day 2004. We had bumped into a friend of DH’s when we got there. And then I remembering seeing another couple, where the woman looked really familiar to me, but I couldn’t figure out why. And now that you mention it, I think it was from your wedding pictures in your journal! Yeah, I wasn’t overly impressed with the food that day either. I know during that time, it had just changed to a new owner/chef. Glad you told me about Le Papillon, it was on my list of “to try” restaurants.

I also have to give Zibibbo in Palo Alto a thumbs up. It was really good when I was there a couple years ago.

As for Napa, every time we go there, it’s been the CIA since someone in the group has never been there before. I can’t remember the prices, but lunch is definitely more affordable than dinner. I had the most awesome sweet corn risotto there; and the zucchini blossom fritter appetizer was fried perfectly. The menu changes all the time, so it’s hard to recommend any particular dish. We’ve also gone to Mustards Grill a couple of times. I think it’s a good place for lunch, but nothing particularly special stands out for me.

Richgal – DH loves breakfast too! We just recently went to Stack’s in San Mateo. It was really good; I loved my crab crepes! It was also during this time that we found out Hunter loves pancakes. J Next time, we’re going to have to hit the one in Campbell since it’s probably closer to us. It’s a little far for us to go, but DH and I like going to Country Gourmet in Sunnyvale for breakfast too.

Vegastrtle – I like going to V. Sattui too. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a picnic.

-------------

We have friends up in Auburn so we go there quite often. I just love it up there. Downtown Auburn has quite a few restaurants we enjoy. I love Awful Annie’s. They have wonderful breakfast/brunch items. Their fresh baked muffins and scones are way yummy! I also like Latitudes for healthy vegetarian food. I really dig their meatless tacos and scrambles. They also serve chicken and fish if I remember correctly. Whenever DH goes on a snowboarding day trip, he always stops off at Edelweiss for breakfast beforehand. He loves their hash browns and corn beef hash. And on the way back home, the stop is always Ikeda’s for teriyaki burgers and milkshakes, or picking up either a fresh bake fruit pie or cobbler to bring back home with us.

beachlvr

07-24-2005, 07:53 PM

Hi All. I'm in the Tri-Cities area, too, and you all are making me hungry with all the restaurant suggestions!

Last night we went to Ciao Amore in San Carlos (I think...it's off the Holly St exit on 101). We've been eating there for years and the food is delicious. No liquor license, though, so you get to bring your own wine.

We love Zibibbo's. I went to Spago Palo Alto for my birthday last year but I wasn't that impressed.

bluhimmy, I went to European Day Spa for pregnancy massages, but they're not that good. I had a couple of bad experiences (doing my manicure in the lobby becasue they were over booked, and once I had a pregnancy massage by a woman who I don't think was a licensed massage therapist). My favorite place for massages is the Body Klinique on Fremont and Sundale.

QT Pie

07-25-2005, 08:25 AM

Hi Smiles33! I know you're on a budget, but Terra is absolutely wonderful. I celebrated my birthday there last year and it was soooo good! They have this cod dish that was one of the best I've ever had. :)

We also ate at Celadon and Bouchon and both of those were good and not as pricey. Have a great time!

bluhimmy

07-25-2005, 12:17 PM

beachlvr - They did your manicure in the lobby? That's tacky! I hope they gave you a discount. Thanks for the heads up on European Day Spa. I'll check out Body Klinique; are their prices reasonable? I got a gift certificate for Essential Day Spa over in the Fremont Hub over a year ago; think it's time to cash that in.

--------

Okay, those ladies living in/familiar with the Tri-Cities area: I'm looking for a new hair stylist. As much as I like my current one, I think it's time for a change; and hopefully, I can find one near me (currently I go to Los Gatos). Any body love their stylist and would recommend them? Oh yeah, I need someone that's good with Asian hair since I have the typical stick-straight coarse Asian hair. :(

**Edited to add that I live in Fremont. Thanks!

laura

07-25-2005, 12:35 PM

Okay, those ladies living in/familiar with the Tri-Cities area: I'm looking for a new hair stylist. As much as I like my current one, I think it's time for a change; and hopefully, I can find one near me (currently I go to Los Gatos). Any body love their stylist and would recommend them? Oh yeah, I need someone that's good with Asian hair since I have the typical stick-straight coarse Asian hair. :(

Sorry, I missed where you live. Do you live near Palo Alto? I see Louise at Juut there, and she is great.

bluhimmy

07-25-2005, 12:54 PM

laura - Thanks for the recommedation and for the reminder to edit my post to add where I lived. Palo Alto is just across the bridge so that's a possibility to keep in mind. Can you tell me her price range for a cut? Thanks!

beachlvr

07-25-2005, 01:35 PM

Bluhimmy, a lot of my friends go to Annette salon. It's over near Ohlone. I used to go and paid $50 a visit. The girl who was cutting my hair left, though, and I decided to grow my hair out so I stopped going. But a lot of my friends go.

Are you a member of FUN Moms? I'm in Fremont, too, and was wondering if I'd ever met you at any of their activities.

bluhimmy

07-25-2005, 02:10 PM

beachlvr - Funny you should mention FUN Moms, I've been thinking about whether or not to join. I visited the website when DS was a newborn, but somehow, just never did go forward with it. Do you enjoy the activities they offer? Would love to hear some feedback. :)

laura

07-25-2005, 02:18 PM

Hmm, I'm not sure how much it is for a cut b/c I always get cut/color. I would guesstimate fairly expensive, maybe ~$80? Sorry I can't be more helpful. They do have a bunch of stylists there at all different "levels" though, and I haven't encountered a bad person yet.

beachlvr

07-25-2005, 02:27 PM

bluhimmy , I do like FUN. They do a lot of stuff. Unfortunately, I have two kids who are too old for most of the activities now, but I like the baby sitting co-op, and I'm still on the board helping coordinate meal deliveries to new moms, mom's who get sick, have surgery, etc.

I've gone to some of the Mom's Nights Out, and of course, there are like 200 playgroups so you can probably find one to join if you need one.

For $39 a year it's not too bad, and there is a lot of stuff that goes on. I think they just had a spa night meeting where they had people come in and give free massages and manicures, and someone is hosting a mom's only pool party in a few weeks. I hear there will be champagne and chocolate involved!

SiValleySteph

07-26-2005, 09:35 AM

Hi! It took me a while to get back to this thread.

We went to Wahoo's Fish Tacos this weekend at Santana Row, so I think that does officially close out the restaurants there. We were counting it as visited before since DH had been to a different location.

I don't think any of the restaurants there are awesome. I might be jaded because we eat out a lot, so I don't appreciate them as much. My current fave is Thea (maybe because it's the most recent?). DH likes to eat at Rosie McCanns (not gourmet or anything). I used to like Pizza Antica and Left Bank, but both can be hit or miss. Oh, Straights is still a favorite. It's too crowded at night these days (more of a club atmostsphere), but it can be a great lunch on the weekend. Citrus (in Hotel Valencia) was a bit dissapointing because it's pretty pricey - they give you large proportions, but I would have preferred smaller proportions and better preperation. The food was good, but not great. We should try Village Inn again because we went when they first opened and it sucked, but I think we may have just caught it at a bad time. I used to love these pork carnitas paninis from the sandwich place in the courtyard, but they shut it down to make it part of Consuelo's.

This weekend we are going to Gary Danko, which is exciting. We hardly ever make it up to the city. To be honest, we haven't been once since we had our baby 10 months ago!! That reminds me, I need to confirm our babysitter!

San Jose Grand Prix is this weekend! Anyone going? We have 3-day passes and have friends coming in from out of town to go with us. The boys are all car enthusiasts. :D

richgal

07-26-2005, 09:51 AM

Bluhimmy - My sister and several of her friends go to Shing's (I think that's what it's called). It's a Chinese place located in the Lion Plaza complex off of Dixon Landing road in Milpitas. My sister gets highlights + cut for like $70! I think a haircut alone is probably around $20. All my sister's friends seem to be happy going there, and they definitely do a good job with highlights.

I've never been there before, my hairstylist is in Campbell and I've been going to her for quite awhile. In the past 7 years, I've only gotten my hair cut twice by someone other than my regular hairstylist, and I hated both of them. So I keep ending up back at my regular stylist, even though her prices seem to increase every time I visit...

tonic

07-26-2005, 09:53 AM

richgal - Who do you go to in Campbell? Thats near where I live and I am desperate need of a good stylist!

SiValleySteph

07-26-2005, 10:19 AM

My stylist is in Campbell - Sarah Collins at Rage Salon (on Campbell Ave). She specializes in color, but does a great job with cuts also.

I actually haven't been in almost 6 months :o (just haven't had time). I went back to my natural color at the last visit, so at least that doesn't look bad!

She is rather expensive, though, and gets more expensive over time. I think its $40-$50 for a cut (plus tip). For color, it's like $120-$130 and I think she throws in the cut for free. I really like her, though, and will keep going to her if I can just find time! She even came in off her vacation to color my hair the week of my wedding.

ejs

07-26-2005, 12:40 PM

SiValleySteph: we're going to the Grand Prix. My DH races cars as a hobby, so there's no way we could miss it. We even have some friends racing in some of the support races.

A part of me no longer wants to go because of what they are doing to the people on Balbach Street. I'm really torn.

We're not going all three days because I couldn't stand it. I'm at the races a lot already with him racing, so I don't think I could handle the whole thing.

tonic

07-26-2005, 02:01 PM

SiValleySteph

07-26-2005, 02:34 PM

A part of me no longer wants to go because of what they are doing to the people on Balbach Street. I'm really torn.

What are they doing to the people on Balbach? I haven't been following all the details, but have been wondering how it's going to work.

We're only going on the week - not all 3 days - we're working on Fri. I don't know how long we'll actually stay, either, since we have a 10-month old. If it's too much/loud for him, maybe only the boys will go.

tonic, It is kind of expensive. It's not too bad for color, but I'm not coloring right now, which is another reason why I haven't been in a while. I think it was $40+tip last time I was there just for a cut and she said her prices were going up. :eek:

seattleguamgirl

07-26-2005, 02:38 PM

Tonic - I have been going to Janelle at Plan Be in downtown San Jose for a while now (will have to find a new stylist in the Seattle area when we move next week). Janelle is also $50/cut but she is awesome and worth every penny IMO. I am going to miss her! Of course I haven't gotten a hair cut since DS was born. I am so overdue for one!

ejs

07-26-2005, 03:51 PM

sivalleysteph, here's the news piece: http://www.nbc11.com/sanjosegrandprix/index.html

Basically, they are temporarily evicting 9 households.

Definitely get earplugs for your son. And you might want some for yourself. I always wear them at my DH's races because it can be so loud!

bluhimmy

07-26-2005, 06:14 PM

beachlvr – Thanks for the info on FUN. I’m really interested in the activities they have for moms, plus the playgroups. Free massages and manicures? That sounds heavenly! :D $39 a year is not bad at all. I’m going to think about joining.

SiValleySteph – I like Straits Café, but I prefer to go the original one in Palo Alto. I don’t care for the nightclub atmosphere of the one on Santa Row. A lot of DH’s single friends go there to meet women. :rolleyes:

Richgal – I know Shing’s very well. Johnny, the owner of Shing’s, did my hair before he even opened Shing’s. I started going to him when I was in high school. He did my hair for over a decade before I finally moved on. Plus, he got really busy, and I got soo sick of the long wait since they don’t take appointments. My mom just started going back there; I would feel a little weird going back. :o

haircuts
Hmmm… am I paying too much for haircuts? I pay $65 for a cut, and that’s with the “family & friends” discount; don’t even ask about color and/or highlights. :o So after reading what everyone is paying, I’m even more convinced that I need to find a new stylist.

laura

07-26-2005, 06:18 PM

haircuts
Hmmm… am I paying too much for haircuts? I pay $65 for a cut, and that’s with the “family & friends” discount; don’t even ask about color and/or highlights. :o So after reading what everyone is paying, I’m even more convinced that I need to find a new stylist.

Me too, clearly, though my $80 estimate included tip (not that that really helps!). Does anyone have a good rec on the peninsula? I've been to 2 salons they are both $$$ - I just assumed all salons in this area were like that! :p

smiles33

07-26-2005, 08:03 PM

Hi everyone! DH and I had a very leisurely 2+ hour lunch at Napa Valley Grille yesterday (though I have to add that it wasn't my choice to spend over 2 hours there).

The service was very slow, but I'm not sure if it's because they are understaffed or because they intentionally pace the lunch out so slowly with long intervals between courses. I kept looking around trying to figure out whether there were lots of other patrons, which might explain the delay. Yet, when I went inside to use the restroom, I saw that the restaurant was mostly empty. There were maybe 20-25 people there in the 2 hour span and I only saw 3 wait staff and 2 bus boys.

Thankfully, it was a beautiful warm but not miserably hot day, so we ate out on the patio, but I found myself swatting away flies every time there was a lull. For instance, we waited about 15 minutes after ordering our bottle of BV Pinot Noir before we were served water and focaccia bread. There were also long waits until plates were cleared and wine glasses refilled.

I started with the artisanal cheese selection (3 cowgirls' creamery choices--Mt. Tam, a mold-ripened triple creme, Red Hawk, a washed rind, and St. Pat, wrapped in nettles). It was accompanied by a half slice of strawberry, some dried currants, some sort of nut (unidentifiable since it was roughly chopped), and some sort of pickled thing that reminded me of a pepperoncini but it wasn't as tangy. My favorite was the Red Hawk cheese.

DH started with the steamed clams & mussels, which he enjoyed much more than Wente's version when we went last month. He polished off everything quite quickly!

For the main course, I ordered the Seared Hokkaido Scallops "Paella Style" with chorizo, haricot verts, roasted pepper nagé. It was AMAZING, and this one dish made the drive out to Napa worthwhile. There were three large scallops on a bed of "paella" rice with a hint of spicy chorizo!

DH had a pulled pork sandwich, which was very disappointing as it was dry and a bit bland. I felt sorry for him, but as we reflected while waiting for dessert, he probably shouldn't have ordered it since he's comparing it to the great hole-in-the-wall restaurants that specialized in BBQ and pulled pork sandwiches. In his words, "You don't come to a place like this for good BBQ."

For dessert, we shared the strawberry shortcake, upon our waiter's recommendation and because I thought it sounded light and summery. Alas, we were disappointed once again, since the lemon poppyseed scone (which sounded like a nice twist on the typical shortcake) was dry and crumbly. I felt like I had a mouthful of cardboard, even with all the fresh whipped cream.

Anyhow, overall, the scallops made the drive worth it to me, but DH wasn't as pleased with his meal. Still, we had a lovely afternoon just chatting away as we waited for each course. That's much nicer than spending it at work! Playing hooky is fun. :)

-----
Blu--perhaps it was the Cottage? I have no idea what that Carmel restaurant was called, but it had great food. And I wonder if you did recognize me, I don't recall looking around at the other patrons, and I'm afraid I can't remember what you look like so I don't know if we made eye contact that night. :)

QTpie, I definitely want to try Terra soon. All the reviews on chowhound are amazing!

richgal

07-27-2005, 03:52 PM

tonic - I go to Ariel at Hair Mechanics, which is in Kirkwood Plaza. She used to work at Legends in Cupertino, before she opened her own salon. I think I pay $48 or $50 for a haircut, plus 20% tip. I only get my haircut about 3 times a year, so it doesn't feel like as much as it really is. DH gets his haircut at a cheapo Chinese salon in Cupertino for $10 a pop + tip, but he goes every 3 weeks. So in reality, he spends more money on haircuts/year than I do. :)

bluhimmy - So funny that you used to go to Johnny. My sister and her friends seem to really like him. But I totally understand about going back to someone you used to go to, but haven't been to in years... Plus, I've always thought it was weird that most Chinese places don't take appointments. That can be sooooo inconvenient!!

Vegastrtle

08-02-2005, 07:41 AM

I have about 6 containers of soy milk that expire September 25. We know we won't be able to get through all of them by then. Does anybody know of a soup kitchen that is near Hayward? I've looked online and in the phone book...can't seem to find anything.

ETA: nm..found one :)

Thanks

laura

08-02-2005, 08:46 AM

Does anyone have a rec for a housekeeper on the peninsula? Or, assuming you have one, do you mind sharing how much you pay for such a service? I'm just starting to look for someone - to come about once a month and do the deep cleaning, since it's just my husband and I - but I have no idea what a good price is in this area.

TIA!

Kristibell

08-04-2005, 09:40 AM

Laura,

We pay $75 a visit and have them come once a month. Out town home is 2-story 1460 sq feet. They do everything, including remake the beds and run our dishwasher. My MIL has been using them for years that's why we choose them. Actually we pay the same as she does and her home is probably twice the size. We could probably agure this with them, but since they come when we are not home the peice of mind is worth it.

I think they are located in Redwood City, but we live in Los Gatos so they do travel. I can get you the number if you are interested.

laura

08-04-2005, 04:20 PM

Kristi - That would be great, thanks! I don't live far from Redwood City, so I would definitely be interested in contacting them. Our place is ~1400 sq ft also, and that price sounds great. :)

irish74

08-04-2005, 04:44 PM

Does anyone have a great waxer in SF? Mine moved to Hawaii and my eyebrows are absolutely out of control. I'm in Noe Valley and would prefer that they be somewhat close and not charge more than $20 for a brow wax. Thanks!

smiles33

08-06-2005, 12:33 PM

Anyone recommend a good nail salon in the East Bay/Tri-Cities area?

mrsliby2004

08-10-2005, 07:28 AM

My sister has been training religiously for the Nike half marathon in SAn Francisco, only to find out that you have to have a bid (ticket) to run it, and they are sold out! If anyone knows anyone that has an extra or that will not be using theirs, please e-mail or PM me. She is willing to pay above face value. Thanks

scrappy

08-10-2005, 04:17 PM

Does anybody know of a decent Chinese Restaurant in the Los Gatos/Campbell-ish area? We keep trying, but have been disappointed everytime. We don't mind driving a bit, so if you know of one in a nearby area, please let me know!! :)

BryantRN

08-11-2005, 11:05 AM

Smiles~
I have been to a place on College Ave in Berkeley that I liked. I think it is called Elmwood Nail Salon. They do manis pedis and waxes. Check it out. They have reasonable prices and it is clean. Not sure if you want to come all the way out to Berkeley.

~Renee~

BryantRN

08-11-2005, 11:08 AM

I think that I posted this question once before, but does anyone know of a good massage place in Berkeley that they can recommend?? There are a ton out here, but I haven't been here long enough to know which ones are dicey so I need a good rec. I heard that Piedmont Springs (actually in Oakland) is good, been there?? Anyone have any advice?? I am in desperate need of a good massage :).

~Renee~

smiles33

08-11-2005, 11:28 AM

Thanks, Renee! I don't get up to Berkeley much, but during football/basketball season DH is always there for home games, so maybe I could still swing by this place instead of watching a game. :)

scrappy--what kind of Chinese cuisine do you want? Spicier Hunan/Szechuan style, Cantonese style, Taiwanese/Fujian food, or Beijing/Northeastern fare? There are many more, of course, but there are so many Chinese restaurants in the area that narrowing down to a regional cuisine makes it easier to highlight choices.

I'm Chinese and grew up in Saratoga so I know a number of good local restaurants, though many of my favorites have closed or changed hands (Cuisineeer Six in West San Jose, Eastern House in Campbell).

If you're more adventurous and like just pointing to what other folks are eating (always a good tactic when in an unfamiliar Chinese restaurant), you might try out one of those huge Chinese strip malls where you can walk by lots of restaurants. The busier the place is, the more likely it has good food since there's a huge Chinese community in the Cupertino/Saratoga/West San Jose area.

One such strip mall is at Wolfe Rd off the 280 exit, anchored by the Ranch 99 supermarket. There's lots of good "hole-in-the-wall" places in there, but nothing that stands out particularly in my mind. My parents like one of the Taiwanese places there but I don't know its English name.

One of my favorite dim sum places is Loon Wah, off De Anza Blvd (aka Saratoga-Sunnyvale Rd) across the street from the Nob Hill grocery store.

One of my favorite Chinese restaurants is just up the street from Loon Wah, Fatima's, a Muslim Chinese place (more Beijing style with noodles and such, but they don't serve any pork or alcohol).

Hope this is helpful!

scrappy

08-11-2005, 11:45 AM

Smiles - Thank you so much!! We typically like the spicier Hunan/Szechuan style. Any recommendations for restaurants of this style?

curlywig

08-11-2005, 03:08 PM

Does anyone know if there is an equivalent to the MLS (multiple listing service) for the East Bay (Orinda, Lafayette area)? We used www.sfarmls.com when we were buying our home in SF, and we're talking about a move sometime next year to the east bay. Wanting to check out houses online.

Also, if anyone used a realtor in that area that they like, I'd love to get names!

TIA!

tonic

08-11-2005, 03:27 PM

Can anyone recommend a reliable pet sitter or boarder in the South Bay area? We have puppy that I need watched over labor day weekend (we are heading to Napa for our anniversary).

Thanks!

beachlvr

08-11-2005, 05:52 PM

Smiles , I found a great nail place last week. For the life of me I can't remember what it's called, but it's at the corner of Mowry and Fremont across from the Long's Drugs. I got a pedicure and it was $23 and included a 20 minute massage. It's in the little strip mall that has the Play It Again Sports and Wolf Camera.

I was a walk in and they told me they've been open 4 months and need more customers. They do facials and massages, too.

Vegastrtle

08-12-2005, 07:19 AM

Can anyone recommend a reliable pet sitter or boarder in the South Bay area? We have puppy that I need watched over labor day weekend (we are heading to Napa for our anniversary).

Thanks!

Club K-9 in Castro Valley is great. They might be far from the South Bay but if you don't get any other suggestions, you might want to give them a try.

BryantRN

08-12-2005, 08:54 AM

Beachlvr~
What city did you say that nail place was that also has facials and massage?

~Renee~

tonic

08-12-2005, 12:02 PM

Vegastrtle - THanks for the suggestion. We will check them out! It may be a bit far though..

beachlvr

08-12-2005, 04:39 PM

BryantRN, it's in Fremont. I drove by today and it's called Perfect Nails and Spa. It was hands down the best pedicure I've ever had, just because of the super long massage!

laura

08-12-2005, 07:44 PM

My friend has boarded at the Peninsula Pet Resort in Belmont or San Carlos, but I have no idea how far that is from where you are. Also, they usually book up pretty quickly, so they may be all booked up already.

Recently she inquired at her vet for people who do pet sitting on the side, and she just has one of the vet assistants come to their house and walk the dog a couple times a day. It's cheaper and they have a very old dog, so she doesn't need much running around for pent up energy.

Not sure that helps you at all...

BryantRN

08-13-2005, 08:33 AM

Thanks Beachlvr, I may just have to check it out.

~Renee~

jewamese

08-14-2005, 05:24 AM

Kristibell, mind sharing your housekeeper contact? I'm in Campbell, and we're DESPARATELY in need of a housekeeper...since, well, I'm not much of one. :p (email: jewamese @ yahoo dot come)

*Big wave*Hi, Loreena & Stephanie! We should all get together for Stacks or Ethiopian. I've never had Ethiopian, but have always wanted to try.

Steph, if you haven't gone back to Village in Santana Row, Don't! I haven't been there since I was pregnant, but that was one of my worst dining experience EVER. The service we got was HORRIBLE and the food was just edible, to me. I wouldn't go there even if they were offering free food. And, I never pass up free. :p

smiless33, I'm really enjoying all of your food-talk. :)

Jennifer

08-15-2005, 10:38 AM

Curlywig - when I wanted to use the MLS for the eastbay I found the easiest way was to sign up at a realators site. I've been checking it out through www.clocktowerassociates.com - they've never called me and the only emails I get are a daily "watch list" of new properties that met my search criteria.

Where are you looking?

LRL

08-15-2005, 10:44 AM

curlywig- Try www.Grubbco.com - their site is very nicely organized.

curlywig

08-15-2005, 10:57 AM

Thanks Jennifer and LRL. I haven't used those sites in the past. When I used to go to individual realtors' sites for SF properties, I found they were really outdated....properties had sold months prior and were still listed. But, like I said, I haven't tried those, so I'll fer sure check them out! Thanks!! :)

SiValleySteph

08-15-2005, 01:12 PM

We should all get together for Stacks or Ethiopian. I've never had Ethiopian, but have always wanted to try.

Yes! Let's! What about a weekend brunch at Sonoma Chicken Coop in Campbell? Don't have to wait like at Stacks, and they have a toddler plate. ;)

Thanks for the tip on Village Inn, we will be sure to keep avoiding it! I was thinking about trying it again, but now I'm glad we haven't.

***

So I thought I had been everywhere in Santana Row, but we just went to the Jardin de Consuelos this weekend. I guess it could be counted as part of Consuelos, but whatever. The sandwiches/quesadillas were reasonably priced around $7, so we each had one and then we had cocktails ($10 each). It was a nice spot to sit and although the food wasn't that awesome, it was definitely passable for $7 and the atmostsphere made up for it. I would try it again. Oh, and the plus was we were able to get in, get our food and drinks, all within the hour we had until we needed to pick up our son from the babysitter.

We had our Gary Danko night a couple weeks ago. We had a really great time and the food was very good. I think our expectations were a bit high, so it's hard to live up to it, but it was very enjoyable. We each had 5 courses and a couple bottles of wine (well, not each, but to share between the 5 of us). They could use a few more bathrooms, though. They only have 3 singles.
Let's see... I had foie gras (I loved the cherry compote!), scallops (yum!), guniea hen breast, cheese course and chocolate souffle. It was expensive, so I wouldn't go a lot, but it was great for a special occasion (like friends visiting!).

richgal

08-15-2005, 01:28 PM

Yes! Let's! What about a weekend brunch at Sonoma Chicken Coop in Campbell? Don't have to wait like at Stacks, and they have a toddler plate. ;)

I haven't been there yet, but I've heard it's good. We're a little booked up the next month or so because we're training for this crazy bike ride at the end of September... but hopefully we can work something out.

Sheeesh... all this food talk is making me hungry, and I *JUST* ate lunch!!! :confused:

p.s. Hi Cindie!!! Long time no talk! You're on LJ, right? Mind if I 'friend' ya?

pontmarie

08-15-2005, 03:26 PM

Steph - Jardin de Consuelos sounds cool. Maybe because I'm craving a quesadilla :p

smiles33

08-15-2005, 03:32 PM

Hey Steph, my boss was just telling me how she loves Gary Danko. She went to Fifth Floor to celebrate her boyfriend's promotion but thought it paled in comparison. I've yet to go to either place so I was just drooling over her lovely descriptions of the food! Lucky you!

CityGirl

08-23-2005, 02:05 PM

Hi ladies. I'm looking for a jeweler to make a custon setting for my engagement ring for my 3rd anniversary. I have some photos of a setting that I love, but am not sure where to take it. Anyone have a jeweler that they love, hopefully in the Gift/Jewelry Center? I have a jeweler there (The Jubilee) but haven't had them do anything custom before, and would rather do some shopping around before I decide.

pontmarie

08-23-2005, 02:08 PM

We got our bands and my e-ring at Giraux at the Gift Center and loved them (Sharon H. is great, I think she's still there) not sure if they do custom. Their # is (877) 447-2899.

ejs

08-23-2005, 10:30 PM

CityGirl, if you're willing to travel to San Carlos, you might want to try Geoffrey's Diamonds. I got my e-ring there and know at least four other people who have.

cubbear

08-24-2005, 11:05 PM

little late in the game.

welcome tonic. we probably live close to each other as im also in san jose west very near the campbell/saratoga/los gatos border.

glad you like it so far ;)

CityGirl

08-25-2005, 02:56 PM

Thanks! I will check out Giraux and Geoffery's. San Carlos isn't too far... only 25 minutes I think.

macgirl

08-25-2005, 03:47 PM

Just have to give another vote for Geoffrey's. I adore that guy! He made my e-ring and wedding band - both custom, as well as my sister's all-in-one custom ring for her 10th anniversary. His store is well over an hour from where I live now, but I just made a jaunt over there a couple of weeks ago with my sis to have our rings cleaned and look at all the sparkly stuff on display. :)

ejs

08-25-2005, 06:39 PM

CityGirl, a note about Geoffrey's shop. It's small. The people who work there have been working together for a long time so they're really familiar and casual with each other. Also, Geoffrey is a bit.... different? If you're anticipating a stodgy, old, uptight jeweler... that's not Geoffrey. He's really talented and we're really happy with his work. And I love that I can stop by anytime and have my jewelry cleaned while I wait.

seattleguamgirl

08-25-2005, 07:30 PM

Just wanted to say that I love Geoffrey's too! He did DH's wedding band and several other pieces for me since. I heart Geoffrey and his staff. :)

Another great jeweler who is higher end but really awesome is Amanda at the Peninsula Diamond Exchange in Menlo Park. I got my e-ring and wedding band from her. She is awesome but works out of a very small shop (an office really) so her inventory on hand is pretty limited.

tonic

08-26-2005, 11:13 AM

cubbear - Thanks for the welcome! We might be neighbors and never know it ;)

Question to all the south bay women: Does anyone know where I can get reprints done of my wedding pictures? I'd prefer someplace in this area (San Jose, Campbell, Sunnyvale, Los Gatos, Santa Clara, etc).

Also, does anyone know a place I can get my negatives scanned? I have a scannerat home but its too much work/time to get the scans just right and the color adjusted. I need a more professional scanner and someone with expertise!

Thanks ladies!

scrappy

08-26-2005, 11:21 AM

Tonic - I had my wedding photos reprinted at Costco on Almaden Road. They did an awesome job (offer glossy or matte finishes) and the prices were good as well. I also had them do larger prints 8x10 etc, and those came out perfect. not sure about the negative scanning though, but i'm sure you could call and find out. Hope that helps!! :D

CityGirl

08-26-2005, 02:41 PM

ejs (and others) - your comments about Geoffery make me want to go there even more. The jeweler we used for our wedding bands & e-ring was a very reserved, older man. Even though I loved our bands (and the prices) I always got the feeling that we were a low priority in his shop. I need someone with some personality who will work with me and give me some feedback.

On a side note - the band that I love is on antiqueengagementrings.com. I'm debating whether we should just buy the band online and have my stone set in it here, or to have something done custom based on the photos online...

seattleguamgirl

08-27-2005, 02:21 PM

tonic - sorry, no recs in the south bay but we made the trip to SF to get our reprints at Photoworks.

smiles33

08-27-2005, 09:30 PM

I am researching day care options and would love to know if any of you have recommendations. Even though I just got my BFP last week, I've heard some places have 1 year waiting lists. I'm going to go ahead and put my name on the waiting list for Stanford's centers but they are $1200+ per month for just 3 days/week (DH doesn't work Mondays and I'm hoping to have MIL watch DC 1 day). I don't know about in-home daycare options, because I prefer knowing that more than 1 person is there (at least there are witnesses/back-up if one person is having a bad day).

TIA!

ETA: I work at Stanford and we live in the East Bay (Fremont/Union City area) so either of these 2 locations would be our top choices.

beachlvr

08-27-2005, 11:28 PM

I can highly recommend the Kindercare on Paseo Padre and Mowry in Fremont. I sent two of my boys there back when I was a WOHM, and they were really good. Great director, great assistant director, and great teachers. And to top it all off, they had very low teacher turnover. Some of the teachers had been there 10 years or more. MY kids haven't been there in 3 years, but some of my friends have children that go there and they are very happy as well.

It is a bit pricey, however, but the children get breakfast, lunch, and two snacks (you have to bring in baby food and bottles, but once they're toddlers the school provides meals). Hours are 6:30 am-6 pm. I'm not sure what the rates are these days. It was $250 a week when I went.

smiles33

08-28-2005, 02:45 PM

Thanks so much, beachlvr! I'm going to go find out more about them now.

bluhimmy

08-29-2005, 12:50 PM

smiles - I'm just starting to look into daycare now since I'm toying with the idea going back to work... My friend sends her 3 year-old DS to the Kindercare on Paseo Padre. She's a SAHM now, but last year, she checked on the cost for her then, infant DD. It was $325/wk for full-time infant/toddlers under the age of 2. There are no part-time options for this age group. Once they hit 2, costs goes down. There's a price increase soon, and she's waiting to get the new prices.

beachlvr - Have you've heard anything (good/bad) about Kidango? They have several locations in and around Fremont, but I know nothing about them.

beachlvr

08-29-2005, 01:02 PM

I don't know too much about Kidango. I do know some centers are nicer than others, though. The one at Washington Hospital is supposedly brand new and very nice. My church rents the Kidnago Rix Center building and it's very old.

I don't know much about the teachers or curriculum, though.

IMHO, Kindercare was worth the price. They have lots of teachers and a well planned curriculum.

SiValleySteph

08-29-2005, 02:03 PM

Have you've heard anything (good/bad) about Kidango? They have several locations in and around Fremont, but I know nothing about them.

I don't know about the Kidangos in Fremont. I had a friend who sent her son to the Kidango in West San Jose (off Moorpark) and she loved it. We looked into it, but they didn't return our call twice (!), so we went with a different daycare. (Action Day in West San Jose - really like it! - for anyone in that area.)

CityGirl

08-29-2005, 02:38 PM

DH and I went this weekend to Geoffrey's and couldn't be more pleased. I took in photos of the mounting I love, and spoke with Steven about our options. He said we could look through their selection for something similar, or have a wax cast made to reproduce it exactly. But when it all came down to it he suggested I order the setting I like from the vendor I found it from online (It will save a lot of $$$). Then Geoffrey's will set the stone and have their engraver make a band to match. While we talked he cleaned both my rings and DH's and tightened my setting. So easy to talk with, and a great lighthearted atmosphere. There were several customers in there at the time just chatting, waiting to get their hair done next door, etc.

So thanks for the recs ladies :)

ejs

08-29-2005, 02:49 PM

CityGirl, I'm so glad it worked out for you!

cc8

08-31-2005, 09:17 AM

smiles, in addition to Stanford Arboretum, there's also a place in PA called Whistle Stop, however, I'm not sure about rates. DH and I visited both the Arboretum and Whistle Stop and they are very professionally-run places. I'd feel comfortable eventually leaving DD there when I go back to work; but yes they are $.

I'm also looking for daycare places in the Palo Alto/Menlo Park area (DH also works at Stanford), so please let me know if you hear about anything promising!

LadyD088

08-31-2005, 09:52 AM

Hi All - New to the area, well, been here for about 2 months now. I live near San Jose State Univ. Just joining the thread to find some new cool things to do. We moved here from Los Angeles so things are quite a bit different. DH works at Eastridge (Champs Sports - Manager, Ryan). I work from home.

Our prized event happening this year...I just got tickets for the USC/CAL game! We are SO excited and can't wait. We are HUGE USC fans!!

Hope to see you all around and look forward to learning new things about this area.

Thanks...Deb

smiles33

08-31-2005, 12:29 PM

cc8: Stanford has a few options, as I'm looking into the Children's Center of the Stanford Community, which does offer flexible part-time schedules (you choose which days, unlike the Arboretum, which only offers MWF for part-time babies). See this page http://www.stanford.edu/dept/ocr/worklife/onsite.html

ACK! LadyD088 you're a Trojan? J/K. :) I'm a BRUIN, so you won't find too much excitement on my part about an SC victory, but welcome to the Bay Area nonetheless. DH is a 4th generation Cal grad with season tickets to every football and basketball game, so I may even be at the Cal/SC game.

cc8

09-02-2005, 02:15 PM

Thanks smiles, I'll look into the Children's Center!

justHB

09-05-2005, 08:59 PM

curlywig- Try www.Grubbco.com - their site is very nicely organized. Late in joining the game and going backwards through the thread ... I wanted to say The Grubb Co. is by far the most reputable independant real estate brokerage in the Oakland/Berkeley area and their website has been my version of porn for going on 6 years now. We actually put in an offer on one of the homes they were representing, but unfortunately didn't get it. All in all, I highly recommend them (and their website) for properties in Piedmont, Oakland, and Berkeley.

curlywig

09-06-2005, 09:34 AM

Thanks HB!

seattleguamgirl

09-12-2005, 08:45 PM

chortles

09-12-2005, 09:01 PM

Thirsty Bear on 3rd and Howard? You can rent the upper floor. Pool tables, cool bar area, etc. THere are other bars nearby you can walk to as well.

clammyinsf

09-12-2005, 10:17 PM

*hi everyone!*

another bay area girl checkin' in. i moved up to SF about six years ago from san diego for work, met my hubby and we just moved into our first home in freakmont (er, i mean, fremont :p) this past december.

would love to hear everyone's suggestions on nice but casual dinner spots for dining w/ friends. our favorites are tomasso's in north beach for pizza & basil thai but we need to add to that list!

chortles

09-12-2005, 10:22 PM

Hi Clammy!

Le Charm (www.lecharm.com) is one of my favorite french places in the city. Great french food.

seattleguamgirl

09-12-2005, 10:43 PM

Thirsty Bear on 3rd and Howard? You can rent the upper floor. Pool tables, cool bar area, etc. THere are other bars nearby you can walk to as well.

Chortles, thanks for the great suggestion! I would've never thought of Thirsty Bear. The location is definitely great.

I think I also want to explore venues that are a little swankier and more intimate. A friend of ours had a private party in a room at Bliss, which would have been perfect except I think it's too small. for the amount of people we are inviting.

Keep the suggestions coming!

justHB

09-12-2005, 10:51 PM

111 Minna is a cool space for private parties.

curlywig

09-13-2005, 09:07 AM

Hey ladies,

I need some help. DH is turning 30 in December and we want to have a joint party with his best friend, who is also turning 30 two weeks before DH. We want to rent a space for a party, preferably in a location where we can walk to bars. Or, the space can be IN a bar, which would be even better. Any recommendations? I am so out of touch with nightlife in SF (just look at my avatar so you can see why) and need help!

Thanks!

DH had a great 30th bday party at Moose's in North Beach. They have a private room, and there are lots of bars nearby. Depends upon the mood you're looking for. If you prefer to have pool tables and darts or someplace more mellow....what do you envision?

irish74

09-13-2005, 10:05 AM

seattleguamgirl - ThirstyBear is a good suggestion, we had my 10 year high school reunion upstairs there a few years ago. If you are looking for something pretty casual there is the Connecticut Yankee at 17th & Connecticut, I had my 25th party there. Delancey Street has a couple of private rooms, the food and service are awesome and the prices are reasonable.

chortles - I used to work down the street from le Charm, love that place. The steak and fries are so good.

clammyinsf - We don't get out of our neighborhood for dinner much these days, but in Noe Valley I can definitely recommend Miss Millie's and Firefly for nice but casual places. Also, see the above recommendation for Connecticut Yankee, I ate dinner there with a friend either Friday or Saturday night for about 7 or 8 years, I guess we don't like change much. :p

CityGirl

09-13-2005, 01:10 PM

seattleguamgirl- I've been helping my friends search for this exact thing lately. Lots of 30ths and celebrations. Here are the places we've looked into (or have had a party at before):

Upscale:
Circolo - private room
Rosewood
Le Colonial - private room
Levende Lounge
Medjool - private upstairs

Less upscale but still pretty darn nice:
Julie's Supper Club - private room
12 Galaxies
Cafe du Nord
Crimson (in the basement of Indigo Restaurant)

The places that I didn't mark "Private room" you have to rent out the whole place, usually for the early part of the evening, then they start letting the public in later.

clammyinsf - hands down my favorite casual dinner spot is "Ti Couz" in the Mission. We also love Pomelo (sfaugustbride, you should check out the one in outer Noe if you haven't already) and Medjool is good for meeting up with a big group for hearty apps/drinks.