7th annual John Kane Penny Pitch is June 28 in Grass Valley

Since early times, youths have gathered to pitch pennies on the sidewalk, to see who can get theirs closest to the wall. “It was surely spring if they were lagging pennies, one of the great sidewalk sports,” legendary Chicago newspaperman Mike Rokyo wrote in a column 42 years ago. “There have been tournaments held to determine […]

The Sierra Foothills’ Pizza Heritage

ONE OF THE CULTURAL TRADITIONS BROUGHT TO the Gold Country by the Italian immigrants was the tradition of baking in stone ovens, popular for pizza-making. Around 100 stone ovens dot the countryside where the Italians settled, according to the Sacramento Italian Cultural Society. Stella Restaurant in Truckee has a wood-fired oven, along with Sierra Knolls’ […]

Ol’ Republic Brewery to roll out bottled beer

DESPITE THE “ZOMBIE ECONOMY” OF 2011, three foothill craft breweries were born within months of each other: Berryessa Brewing Co. in Winters, Loomis Basin Brewing Co. and ol’ Republic Brewery in Nevada City. All of them are on a roll. Ol’ Republic has launched an expansion that will more than quadruple its production, which now […]

A hip food-lovers hangout may emerge in Nevada City, near its farmers market

Some of our favorite “foodie paradises” are in the Bay Area, and we are regulars. The Ferry Building Marketplace in San Francisco and the Rockridge Market Hall come to mind. The Ferry Building also is home to a popular farmers market where we used to shop. Now, we believe, this phenomena may be coming to […]

Best Al Fresco dining in the Sierra Foothills and Sierra

Enjoyable patio dining spots in Grass Valley, Nevada City, Auburn and Tahoe-Truckee: IKE’S QUARTER CAFE Ike’s tree-covered patio with brightly colored flowers is one of the finest outdoor din- ing spots in the foothills. Ike’s specializes in Creole food, using fresh, organic ingredients. 401 Commercial St., Nevada City 530-265-6138 IkesQuarterCafe.com KANE’S FAMILY RESTAURANT A newly […]

Pine Street Burgers in Grass Valley is open

Pine Street Burgers in Grass Valley is open. The menu features all-natural burgers, Casper hot dogs, deli sandwiches, grilled sandwiches, wraps, fresh salads, natural shakes, dairy-free shakes, french fries and sweet potato fries, among other items. We predict it’s going to be a big winner, based on the owner’s track record and the boom in […]

2013 Food Trends: Our top predictions for the New Year

Here are our top food, wine and beer trends for the new year and where to find them in our Sierra foothills: 1. ARTISAN FOOD Hand-crafted food sales are booming. Food lovers crave artisan cheese, crusty bread and dry-cured meats. New laws, such as California’s Homemade Food Act, will spur further growth. • Smokey Ridge […]

Expanding Eateries: Innovative, reasonable fare

THOUGH MANY RESTAURANTS, cafés and caterers have run into the economy’s buzz saw, we’re glad to tell you about some that are expanding in our region. They include Kane’s Family Restaurant in Grass Valley, Lefty’s Grill and Emily’s Catering & Cakes in Nevada City, Café Zorro in Loomis and Fifty Fifty Brewing Co. in Truckee, […]

Real Food Chefs who are revitalizing Sierra Foothills dining

Meet the chefs, restaurateurs & caterers in the Sierra Foothills who are revitalizing dining in our Sierra FoodWineArt special report: Ike Frazee Ike is the chef and owner, along with his wife, Adrienne, of Ike’s Quarter Cafe in Nevada City. Now in its 11th year, Ike’s is a favorite for New Orleans-style cuisine, made with […]

Lovin’ Meat: Where to get it

OUR REGION OFFERS some of the most flavorful steaks, barbecue and burgers anywhere. There are also abundant supplies of local beef, pork and lamb. California has more certified organic beef cows than any other state. For do-it-yourself BBQ, try the organic pork ribs from Llano Seco Ranch in Chico, carried at BriarPatch Co-op. For beef, […]

« Previous PageNext Page »

  • Follow us on PinterestFollow us on Pinterest