Dining out in Nevada City
NEVADA CITY RESTAURANTS have been pioneers of farm-to-fork cooking before it became fashionable. We consider Peter Selaya of New Moon Cafe the dean of real food cooking in the foothills.
Peter’s passion for cooking came from his dad, a longtime chef at well-known Bay Area restaurants. Peter’s creativity and flair with cooking has been an inspiration for other Nevada City chefs, most notably Ike Frazee of Ike’s Quarter Cafe.
Ike is the chef and owner, along with his wife, Adrienne. Now in its 14th year, Ike’s is a favorite for New Orleans-style cuisine, made with fresh ingredients from local farms— all listed on a colorful chalkboard.
Growing up in Nevada City, Ike worked in many local restaurants, including the New Moon. Ike later moved to San Francisco to attend the California Culinary Academy. He sums up his food like this: “Serve organic locally grown foods made from scratch that you can feel good about eating.”
Commercial Street in Nevada City is becoming a food lovers’ destination. Matteo’s Public is a popular gathering spot. Restaurateur Matt Margulies offers a menu featuring fresh, local ingredients whenever possible. He also is a self-professed “beer geek,” now offering 10 craft beers on tap. Down the street is Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co.
Other popular Nevada City restaurants include Sushi in the Raw, Sushi Q, South Pine Cafe, Bistro 221 and Lefty’s Grill, among others. A new craft cocktail lounge is planned on Broad Street called “Golden Era.”