Lunch at Marugame Udon & Tempura in Westfield Valley Fair & A Stroll Through Santana Row

After some gift shopping Cecile and I went to Marugame, the newest noodle spot located inside of Westfield Valley Fair Across from Santana Row in San Jose that specializes in fresh handmade noodles, Tempura and Asian Fusion. The udon noodles have the perfect texture. We loved the canteen-style setup, where you can choose from a variety of side dishes and toppings. It is affordable, offers fast service and very tasty.

It is also entertaining to see how the cooks make the noodles in the open kitchen. It is a great fast-casual option when you want a filling meal without the extra frills. They also have some colorful Asian murals that makes your seating area very festive. I had Curry Nikutama: Handmade Udon Japanese Noodles with Sweet Beef and Soft Boil Egg A Side of Chicken Katsu (deep fried) Cecile had a Chicken Curry Rice Bowl with Chopped Scallions, corn, and a side of Tempura Shrimp. After lunch we took a stroll down the main street of colorful Santana Row.

Photos I’ve Taken of the Most Spooky & Whimsical Halloween Decorations & A Halloween Poem

Halloween Is Coming by Fiona Halliday

Every year two weeks prior to Halloween I take photos of my favorite Decorations in various neighborhoods in Saratoga, Los Gatos, San Jose and Half Moon Bay. Most of the photos are taken on the fly while riding my bike.

Creeping, crawling creatures scurry in the night, Rats and bats and spiders, nibble, out of sight, Don’t look too carefully,

You’ll get a nasty fright!

Monsters in the bathroom, witches in the hall, Hairy beasts and demons climbing every wall, You won’t want to catch them,

When they start to fall!

Vampires’ stealthy footsteps cross the wooden floor, Werewolves howling fearfully, beyond your kitchen door,

Don’t look outside now,

You won’t want to find out more!

Zombies with their wild eyes and their soulless grins, Skeletons with their bony cheeks and their missing skins,

Listen for their rattling sounds,

But do not let them in!

Halloween is coming, what a scary night,

Ghosties, ghouls and goblins dancing in the light, Here they are all coming now, feel the spooky beat,

If you listen, hear ‘em shout:

“TRICK OR TREAT!”

An Authentic Spanish Dinner at Teleferic Barcelona Restaurant with Cecile & our Son Jason

“The only thing I like better than talking about food is eating it.”—John Walters

Life is a buffet of tapas when dining at Teleferic Barcelona and there’s no need for a passport or travel to Spain. Housed in the heart of Los Gatos (English for 'the cats') at the historic Old Town Retail Center, the authentic Spanish restaurant focuses on traditional Catalan and Basque flavors that has attracted an American clientele. The tapas-style concept is considered a social and cultural experience as it is a culinary journey. We were led to the front outdoor terrace with a heating lamp and a view of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

After Jason ordered a cocktail and Sangria respectively, we began our gastronomic adventure by ordering Patatas Bravas: crispy potatoes with homemade brava sauce; Roasted Chicken empanadas; Brussels sprouts with aged cheese, basil oil and lemon-honey dressing; and, tender Spanish meatballs with flavorful ‘canary masala’ sauce and cream.

We also shared an authentic Pork Paella entree that included Acorn-fed Pork chop, pork belly, chicken and mushrooms on a bed of Spanish rice. We ordered the large portion (good for 3 or 4 people) which was abundant enough for take-out leftovers.

Before heading home we walked to Salt & Straw, founded in Portland, Oregon in 2011, for a scoop of ice cream.

Postscript: Thanks to Kim and Al Chien for their generous Gift Certificate they gave me for my birthday in August, that I finally got around to using.

Congratulations to Our Nephew Jacob Schwimmer Promoted to Associate Partner with "Lettuce Entertain You” Restaurants

Cecile and I are proud to announce that her sister Sherry’s son, Jacob Schwimmer, has been promoted to Associate Partner with "Lettuce Entertain You" Restaurants. He will continue to oversea the Ema and Aba restaurant brands in the greater Chicagoland area. He lovingly thanked his beloved wife Amy Telpner @luv2style76 for being his "biggest cheerleader.” As a team player he extended his gratitude to all his Partners for helping him grow and provide him guidance along his career path.

Jacob, your aunt Cecile and I, and of course your mother, have been some of your biggest fans. You inspire by having ambitious dreams, then putting the hard work to achieve them. We extend our heartfelt congratulations on achieving this latest career milestone. We always had faith that you could do it. Some of our greatest memories have been eating at many of the restaurants you have worked at during your career.

Of course, the latest one was at Aba (meaning father in Hebrew) in June 2022, in the historic Fulton Market District, where your aunt Cecile used to buy food for her father’s Deli (Weiner Foods) back in the day. Aba is one of the most exotic, delicious, and impeccable Mediterranean and California-style dining experiences we have ever had. The ambiance on the rooftop patio was outstanding. I have included some memorable photos of the time we shared together. Of course whenever I post our dining experiences in California, Maui and around the world, we always think of you.

Happy Italian American Heritage Month & The Good Life

La Dolce Vita, an Italian phrase that translates to "The Good Life.” It's a lifestyle that's often associated with Italian culture and way of life. The phrase refers to enjoying life's pleasures instead of focusing on one’s problems.

It is also a quote from the “Sweet Life” (1960) about loving each other outside of time: “We must get beyond passions, like a great work of art…We should love each other outside of time...”

A Romantic Dinner with Friends at "A Bellagio” Italian Restaurant

Cecile and I had an early dinner "al fresco” (Italian for "in the open air") at “A Bellagio” in downtown Campbell with Susan and Nelson Bye. When one thinks of Bellagio, you're reminded of the municipality in the Province of Como, in the Italian region of Lombardy. A Bellagio restaurant is well-regarded for its refined dining experience. It offers a romantic yet casual atmosphere. It emphasizes the use of fresh ingredients, including organic produce and hormone-free meats. It’s a popular choice for both intimate dinners and large group events. Regulars often praise the attentive service and cozy ambiance. We appreciated the cozy ambiance, food quality, and the warm welcoming environment. It also has a full bar and outdoor heat lamps and fire pits.

We ordered cocktails and beer and for starters we shared Caprese (Fresh mozzarella, basil, slice tomato and extra virgin olive oil) and Fritto Misto All ‘Italiana (Fried calamari, zucchini with spicy marinara). We each ordered some pasta entrees including Penne with Salsiccia (Sausage); Penne with Bolognese (Meat Sauce); Lasagne; and Fresh Halibut with polenta and veggies. The portions were so substantial that we had no room for dessert.

After dinner we took a “passeggiata” (in Italian means a ‘walk' or a ‘stroll.’) in the very festive downtown Campbell with a band playing in front of a restaurant in a row of other bustling restaurants, wine bars, cafes, ice cream and other shops on both sides of the street. The 130 feet tall Campbell Water Tower was imbued with a pink light and we were graced with a full moon.

Happiest of Birthdays to our Son-in-Law Kyle Lewis

Dearest Kyle, Cecile and I want to wish you a very special birthday.

The day you married our daughter Michelle was one of the happiest days of our lives—and also one of the most expensive:-). But that investment has payed off in spades.

You have been a great husband, father, a good friend, and have blessed us with three precious and wonderful grandchildren, Lyla, Emmy and Gus, and in the process you have made Michelle and us the happiest people in the world.

Your parents welcomed you into this world on this day, and we’re grateful that you eventually made your way into our world as well. A birthday is comprised of a million moments, each holding a promise of fulfillment of your dreams and many accomplishments. On a piece of paper, we’re related by law, but in our hearts, we are related by love.

May you have another year filled with success, happiness, and good fortune.

Love,

Dennis and Cecile

Scenic Saturday Morning Views of Ponds Creeks Murals and a Vibrant Farmers Market

Thanks to my friend Bill, I have learned to love a brisk, early 15-mile Saturday morning bike ride that allows us to take in the scenic elements of "Mother Nature” via the paved Los Gatos Creek Trail that include ponds, creeks, Lake Vasona Reservoir, murals and ends at the vibrant Saratoga Farmers Market at 143-acre West Valley College in the foothills of the Santa Cruise Mountains.

Upon arrival, we walk our bikes in and separately engage our respective favorite vendors and meet up at a designated spot for the ride back home. The utility bag that we have on the back of our bike racks makes it possible for us to be our own door dash. On any given Saturday, I purchase fresh bread, organic fruit, pot stickers, fresh orange juice, breakfast burritos, rotisserie chicken, or a choice of other ethnic food that Cecile and I share for lunch.

Here are some photos that I have taken along the way.

Dinner with Friends at Steamers Grillhouse in Downtown Los Gatos

Friendship is a tapestry woven with shared experiences, especially when it comes to fine dining. As Sarah, Cecile, Bill and I stepped into Steamers Grillhouse in Downtown Los Gatos (Spanish for the Cats), we felt the air of excitement and anticipation as we perused the menu of a restaurant that we all have all frequented on and off for the 40 years its been in existence. In recent years the restaurant has retained its charm while adjusting to evolving culinary trends.

The clicking of our glasses and being enveloped in a warm and welcoming atmosphere instantly uplifted our spirits. The conversation flowed effortlessly, as we caught up on our recent activities, discussed our respective future plans, and exchanged anecdotes of our grandchildren. Aside from the camaraderie that makes dining out with friends fun, it's the culinary experience that unfolded before us.

Before ordering our preferred entrees. we decided to share an Artichoke Pizza with Pancetta, Organic Toy Box Tomatoes, Fontinas Cheese, and Roasted red Peppers. Cecile and Sarah had a Lemon Drop cocktail, and I had a White Aligash Belgian beer.

Steamers Grillhouse is known for its white tablecloth service, a range of seafood dishes and classic ambiance with a beautiful interior and great service. It also offers outdoor seating on the side of the building.

Family Brunch at Karen's Bakery Cafe in Folsom & Gazing Eye to Eye with Our Forever Smiling Grandson

“There’s nothing like a grandchild to put a smile on your face, lump in your throat and a warm feeling in your heart.”

—Author Unknown

Life is short, but Sunday brunch should be long, especially when you have a loving family who enjoy each other’s company. Cecile and I had a delicious Sunday Brunch with Jason, Michelle, Kyle and our Grandkids, Lyla, Emmy and Gus at Karen’s European-Style Bakery & Cafe located near the American River Bike Path. It is known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious baked goods and is a popular spot for breakfast, brunch and coffee.

Kyle had the Grilled Carnitas Burrito filled scrambled eggs, sautéed Red peppers, onions, Oaxaca Cheese, Salsa Verde and Lime Crema with a side of fresh fruit. Jason had the Chilaquiles Verde with House made White Corn Chips tossed in Salsa Verde topped with Oaxaca Cheese, Lime Cream, Pickled red Onions and Cilantro topped with two Sunny-side Eggs. Cecile and I had Avocado Toast, and Michelle ordered a fresh plate of yogurt topped with sliced bananas, pineapple, strawberries, blueberries and sliced almonds and Quiche topped with a dollop of sour cream and a croissant that she shared with the kids. The presentation of the food prepared by the cooks was a work of art and the portions plentiful.

Postscript: The first thing that caught my eye aside from the glass cases filled with delicious looking bakery goods was what appeared to be a framed ornamental needlework called the "Ten Table Manners.” (See photo).

Saturday Farmers Market Around the Railroad Turntable & Public Plaza in Historic Folsom

After a light breakfast Cecile, Jason, and I went to the Farmers Market around the Railroad Turntable and Public Plaza in downtown Folsom. The Turntable-which helps to turn locomotive engines around- is the first of several to be used at Folsom, California, between 1856 and 1913 was one of two delivered to the Sacramento Valley Railroad via Cape Horn on the clipper Dashing Wave in June 1855.

Relaxing Sunday Brunch at Jack's Restaurant in San Jose

“There’s something about brunch that makes everyone feel like they’re on vacation.”

—Marisol Santiago

Cecile and I invited our son Jason’s partner Alex—who happened to be in town—to join us for brunch at Jack’s Restaurant. We’ve all heard the phrase, “Let’s do brunch.” Well, the concept of brunch is often credited to British writer Guy Beringer, who proposed the idea in 1895, in an article in Hunter’s Weekly. He suggested brunch as a late-morning meal combined with breakfast and lunch, offering a more relaxed, social alternative to the heavy, traditional Sunday lunch. He argued that it would help people recover from Saturday night’s festivities and create a cheerful, sociable atmosphere.

Cecile had Swedish Pancakes served with lingonberry butter which is out of this world. Alex had a cheese omelette with baby spinach with a side of hash browns and I enjoyed a Greek Scramble with egg whites, gyro meat, feta cheese, diced tomato, green onion, with hash browns and wheat toast.

Jack’s welcomes guests with an extensive menu that reflects the Marcovici family’s Greek-American heritage bounty of their California home. It is known for being consistently delicious, with fresh ingredients, generous portions, friendly, attentive service. They provide a relaxed, casual atmosphere, with indoor or outdoor seating. It is one of our favorite places to eat breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Attended the St. Archangel Michael Serbian Orthodox Church Food Festival 2024

After briefly introducing myself to V. Rev. Vidoslav Vujasin, the parish priest yesterday, I took a tour of the inner sanctum that was adorned with stunning, revered iconographic images displayed in frescoes and photographed them. The style tends to follow traditional Byzantine influences with rich colors like gold, blue and red. Icon painting is a venerable and intricate part of the Eastern Orthodox tradition, holding a place of great spiritual significance since its inception in the early days of the Church. These sacred images, known as icons, not only serve as religious art but as theological texts in color and form, and one doesn’t necessarily have to be a believer to enjoy its beauty.

A 17-year old friendly altar boy shared some of the history of the church that is similar to what you would see in Greek and Russian Orthodox churches around the world. The creation of the church had humble beginnings. 3.5 acres was donated by Mijo R. and Anne Miljevich and family in November 26, 1961. In August of 2009 BCA Architects traveled to Herzegovina and Montenegro to visit limestone quarries in search of white stone from the homeland that was used in the contruction of the Church. It took many years to build, made possible by the generosity of its patrons.

Postscript: The friendly volunteers and members of the Church cooked lamb, pig riblits for the weekend Serbian Festival, along other foods. The festival included baked goods, beer and wine, fun activity for the kids like face painting, and music and dancing

A Nostalgic Sicilian Dinner with Friends at Palermo Italian Restaurant

“One of the greatest culinary marriages came about when dried pasta, introduced by the Arabs to Sicily in the 12th century, met tomatoes grown from seeds brought to 16th century Spanish Palermo after Hernan Cortez gathered them from Montezuma’s gardens."

—Robert Eliason, San Jose Spotlight

Cecile and I had dinner with our good friends and neighbors Bill and Sarah Rothenberg who recommended we dine at Palermo Italian Restaurant that specializes mostly in Southern Italian and Sicilian cuisine and some Northern Italian dishes. It was a very nostalgic experience as Cecile and I used to frequent Palermo in our younger years when it was located at another location in San Jose. We took my late Sicilian mother, Maria and my dad Frank there in our younger years. We asked to be seated in the spacious covered patio surrounded by trees and overlooks the Los Gatos Creek trail that Bill and I have pedaled our bikes dozens of times over the years on our way to downtown San Jose.

Cecile and Sarah had their favorite Lemon Drop cocktail & I had a Peroni beer, after the friendly waiter brought us sliced sourdough bread and for starters we ordered Arancini (fried rice balls with asiago cheese, mushrooms and saffron.) for the table. It reminded me of my late Sicilian Zia Cettina who used to make them for us. Cecile and I shared a Sicilian Salad (mixed greens, oranges, tomatoes, shaved onions, anchovies and olives), and I had tortellini and meatball soup.

For our entrees Sarah and Cecile had Penne Palermo, Bill had a thinly sliced veal dish with pasta, and I had Palermo’s classic Chicken Parmigiana, with a double portion of veggies. The smooth rich red sauce is made with imported San Marzano tomatoes, which are the number one canned tomato in Italy.

Cecile and I shared a scoop of Pistachio and Cherry gelato Bill and Sarah shared a scoop of Vanilla and Chocolate gelato in a tall soda fountain-style glass.

The ambiance at Palermo is warm and inviting, featuring rustic decor, soft string lighting with vintage style art including a decorative two-wheeled, horse-drawn wooden Sicilian Cart (carretto) and horse. It symbolizes folklore, craftsmanship, nature, and is an ode to Sicilian history and the way of life on this beautiful island, that I have many fond memories of visiting throughout my life.

La bella vita, Italian for “to the good life."

A Taste of Africa from Nopnala Foods—Mama Africa Approved Cuisine was a Pleasant Take-Out Surprise

“A recipe has no soul. You, as a cook, must bring soul to the recipe.”

—Thomas Keller

In recent months I have joined my friend Bill on early Saturday morning bike rides that ends with a stop at the Farmer’s Market in Saratoga, CA. Earlier in the year I noticed a new food vendor: Nopnala Foods Mama Africa Approved. Having traveled to Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Botswana, and South Africa, and eating Ethiopian food in the the US, it peaked my curiosity.

Hajj, the friendly owner-entrepreneur who operates the kiosk has drawn a lot of attention. Since he has been following me on Instagram, I thought it was about time we get personally acquainted. After introducing myself, he said “You really travel a lot.” He even told some of his customers about my love of travel. Hajj will be the first one to tell you that his cooking background was inspired by his long journey and experiences through his travels.

Some of his popular dishes that come fresh-chilled or frozen are African Gumbo, African Peanut Stew, and green Chicken Curry. I decided to buy a quart size of African Peanut Stew, a rich flavorful melody of 100% Sonoma County Grass Fed Beef, Yams, Snap Peas, regular sweet peas and Corn with Coconut Peanut Sauce. Cecile and I had it for dinner last evening over a bed of brown rice and a fresh salad and it was delish. For those who live locally, you can speak to him at the Farmer’s Market or message Hajj and he’ll set aside what you need.

@saratoga.farmersmarket from 8:30am to 1pm

#africancuisines #africa #delicious #soulfood

Amazing Dinner at Bevri Georgian Cuisine in Los Altos with the Rothenbergs

Cecile and I and good friends Sarah and Bill enjoyed a savory and delicious dinner at Bevri, a popular Georgian restaurant known for offering authentic dishes from Georgia, a country at the strategic crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, making it the hub for diverse cultures, trade and conflict. Bevri is celebrated for its use of fresh herbs and spices and hearty flavors. The ambiance is warm and inviting, often reflecting elements of Georgian culture, including its rich culinary traditions and artistry.

Rather than order an entree, we ordered an array of starter plates (tapas-style): Pkhali Sampler Baby spinach and beets pkhali with walnuts and herbs served with eggplant rolls; Artichoke with Baje: fried artichoke, walnuts sauce, tashmijab (cheese melted into mash potatoes), red adjika oil and svaneti oil; Lamb Khinkali Dumplings; Khachapuri Adjaruli: Boat-shaped cheese bread with butter and an egg. It is so good it became their logo. I created a short video of our waiter preparing it for us. Their menu states: No tipping necessary, but we gave our very capable and friendly young waiter a generous cash tip anyway. We walked two blocks to the Penny Ice Creamery for dessert.

Postscript: After we finished our meal, I saw this unusual woolen head covering. The bartender encouraged me to try it on. “It’s called a ‘papakha’ which means ‘hat’ he said. Apparently, it is part of the rich tapestry of Georgian traditional attire that evolved over centuries influences by a complex history and interactions

with neighboring cultures. It is a sign of honor and dignity. Former UFC champion, Khabib Nurmagomedov, brought the papakha to the world stage (see photo). Honoring the traditions of his Dagestani ancestors, he wore the white woolen hat to all his fights and weigh-ins. Many of his wrestler’s fans would also wear the hat to support him.

A 23-mile Lunch Ride to the Historic San Pedro Square Market in San Jose

Bill and I rode our bikes on the Los Gatos Creek Trail, a mile from our homes to his cousin Del’s home in Willow Glen who joined us for the ride. We then hopped on the Three Creeks Trail nearby. A replica water tower sculpture with the number 3 marks the entrance to pedestrian and biking trail. The Three Creeks refers to Coyote Creek, Los Gatos Creek and the Guadalupe River.

San Pedro Square in San Jose is a vibrant spot known for its mix of historical charm and casual, communal setting. Glowing red letters above the entrance announced our destination. It is recognized as a thriving community hub and a great place for food lovers to discover different ethnic cuisines. There is plenty of outdoor seating with a relaxed open-ambiance. When you step inside to place your order, you’ll discover a fashionably industrial interior with transparent warehouse-style doors, modern fixtures, and weathered brick.

The Peralta Adobe, the oldest building in San Jose, is located in the square providing a sense of the area’s past. Located in downtown San Jose. It’s location makes it accessible to the SAP Center, tech museums and theaters. Bill treated us to lunch. Del had the chicken noodle soup and Bill and I had an abundant and delicious Chicken Banh Mi sandwich from a Vietnamese eatery called “On A Roll.”

Lunch with Cecile at Meso Modern Mediterranean Cuisine in Santana Row

After a little shopping at Westfield Valley Fair, Cecile and I went to Santana Row (SR), tucked in the heart of Silicon Valley in San Jose. It is a great place to shop and dine, and enjoy the California sunshine, with palm-tree lined streets, colorful hanging flower pots on lampposts, and plenty of cafes and restaurants with outdoor patios to satisfy any palate.

We decided to have lunch on the outside patio of Meso Modern Mediterranean Cuisine that delivers genuine hospitality, a stunning environment and what is described as a "deliciously curated selection of Mediterranean fare, all in the service of creating a modern oasis at the center of urban life on Santana Row.” They even have a beautiful waterfall fountain and a sculptured frog garden, a hit for kids and adults alike.

Cecile and I shared a Spiced Lamb Flatbread with yogurt, sumac onions, spicy Zhoug, oven roasted tomato, and sprouts; and a bowl of Roasted Carrot and Cucumber Salad with avocado, feta, dill, and dukkah. Meso is one of our top places to go for dinner.

A Full Day Pedaling Across the Iconic Golden Gate Bridge & Around Angel Island with Friends

Bill and I met our friends Jimi and Jennifer Hunter under the Golden Gate Bridge as the starting point for our all day 36-mile bike ride. Riding across the bridge is a thrill like no other. We’ve done this invigorating ride many times over the years. We were about 220 feet above the choppy waters of the San Francisco Bay. The gusty cold wind ruffles your hair, fingers of fog tickle your cheeks, and a little bit of sun is enough to illuminate the bright red suspension bridge that has been described as an engineering “Wonder of the World."

We continued our ride toward Sausalito and all the of San Fransisco’s iconic landmarks across the skyline. The Golden Gate Bridge from one end to the other remains one of the most romantic and photographed bridges in the world. One of the main highlights of the adventure aside from crossing the Gold Gate Bridge was taking a ferry from Tiburon to Angel Island State Park and continuing our ride around it and stopping to see some of the old army barracks no longer in use. The island sits in the “center” of San Fransisco Bay, and features great across-the-water views of San Francisco, a wide swath of the East Bay, Tiburon, Belvedere, Mt. Tamalpais, and the rest of lower Marin County.

Biking on Angel Island is very safe because there is no public motor-vehicle traffic to be concerned about. The old Immigration Station and its museum is referred to as the Ellis Island of the West Coast. The main trail is the paved Perimeter Road that traces the outline of the island near the shore with mind-blowing views. After spending two and an half hours on the island, Jimi and Jen treated Bill and I to lunch at “The Cantina” in Ayala Cove, before we taking the ferry back to San Francisco.

Lunch with Cecile at Siam Taste Thai Cuisine in Historic Downtown Sunnyvale

“Thai food is feast for the soul—colorful, aromatic and insanely spicealicious.”

Though a few restaurants were closed for Labor Day, we had plenty of eateries to choose from. We decided we were in the mood for authentic Thai food and after looking at their menu, we decided on Siam Taste Thai Cuisine. It was a nice breezy sunny day so Cecile and I decided to eat in the spacious outdoor patio made possible as one whole block of historic Murphy Street is closed to traffic.

We shared a fresh Papaya Salad with a spicy kick to it and a Thai Italian Fusion: Salmon grilled to perfection with noodles and a lightly-spiced Yellow Curry. Having traveled to South East Asia multiple times we simply love Thai food known foor its bold and complex flavors, combining sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements in a single dish.

Siam Taste Thai Cuisine is located at the historic Murphy Avenue, a trendy and colorful destination for a number of international restaurants and cafes, late-night drinks at an Irish pub, small specialty shops, historic buildings, a local movie theater that gives the downtown destination—that accomodates pedestrian traffic—a unique sense of characther.