Our recent experience in Glendale showed that going to the movies ain’t much like it used to be.  We were in Glendale to explore the newly opened Studio Movie Grill located in the center of Glendale’s growing downtown arts and entertainment district.
This Five million dollar project includes 60,000 square feet showcasing ten screens and 780 custom luxury recliners each including a service button, heated seats, telescopic table lamp and chilled cup holder.  Then there is the restaurant, a Mondrian style eatery with indoor/outdoor dining and  a well tested  American Grill  menu designed especially for movie goers and those visiting the entertainment district.
Since the first SMG opened twenty years ago the theaters have proven to be a boon to the surrounding area.  SMG’s unique model provides a full concept cinema eatery featuring a comfortable movie experience while including a neighborhood restaurant and bar
Here one pairs the best films with luxury seating, then press the tray table service button anytime during the show, and a friendly server will come to take your order.  If there is some time before your film is to begin there is the comfortable bar and lounge, one at each level.
With Glendale opening SMG now has eight locations in California including Monrovia, Simi Valley, Downey, Redlands, Rocklin and Bakersfield.. Nationally SMG has 343 screen operating in ten states nationwide making it the leader in the theater dining concept.
The Glendale location shows a modern design that is a mix of Textiles, stone surfaces, warm woods and touches of classics.  The evening we were at SMG Brian Schultz, Founder and CEO was present and he explained SMG’s mission “as a desire to leave a positive wake in the communities we serve.”  He pointed out the role of SMG  will play in the future development of the Arts & Entertainment District.  The complex is also available for private meetings, and fundraising events
Studio Movie Grill  Glendale is located at 128 -130 N. Artsakhj Street, Glendale, Ca.91206,  web www.studio movie grill.com.

Our first view of Carnival Panorama, as we prepared to board,  immediately told us that we were about to have a new and exciting experience.  As long time cruisers aboard Carnival ships we knew that here with Panorama Carnival was adding much to the cruising experience.
The arrival of Carnival Panorama – the line’s first new ship on the West Coast in 20 years – was celebrated in true Carnival Cruise Line fashion with Wheel of Fortune’s Vanna White serving as godmother and officially naming the ship during a  ceremony on board.
White delivered poignant comments during which she spoke about her love of cruising and the commitment she shares with Carnival to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, as well as the cruise line’s relationship with Wheel of Fortune, which she has co-hosted for the past 37 years.
Then, in a nod to her role on Wheel of Fortune, America’s Game®, White turned a series of letters spelling out Panorama that triggered the release of a bottle of Moet champagne to officially name the ship.
The festivities also included a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Carnival Kitchen, a first-in-fleet culinary center that offers more than 15 different interactive cooking, baking and decorating demonstrations.
Joining Carnival President Christine Duffy at the ribbon cutting were Carnival’s team of “Culinary All Stars” including Guy Fieri whose Burger Joint and Smokehouse Brewhouse are featured on Carnival Panorama.
“One of the things we are most proud of is the delicious food we offer across our fleet,” said Duffy. “To celebrate Carnival Panorama’s inaugural with our very own ‘Feast of Fun’ featuring our amazing culinary team both on board and through our partnerships really added to the celebration
One of the events we have always enjoyed on Carnival cruises has been a scheduled meeting for veterans to meet and chat. 
Then a few years ago they changed the format so that veterans attending were only spectators which we did not like.  Now aboard Panorama there is a new special bar and lounge honoring veterans.
Continuing its longstanding support of military women and men, Carnival Cruise Line debuted the “Heroes Tribute Bar,” a first-of-its-kind venue on the new Carnival Panorama that salutes our military heroes.
Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, was joined by military personnel and veterans on Carnival Panorama’s inaugural sailing for the grand opening celebration and toast with Carnival’s extended military family of guests and employees.
She also said that a portion of the proceeds from the new entertainment and gathering spot will benefit Carnival partner, Operation Homefront, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to building strong, stable and secure military families.  Carnival prides itself on carrying more active and retired military personnel than any other cruise operator.
“The Heroes Tribute Bar is a project that is very near and dear to my heart and one that everyone at Carnival is extremely proud of. We’re always looking for new ways to honor our military heroes and this new outlet is a wonderful tribute to the sacrifices of our Armed Services personnel and their families, and a wonderful complement to our extremely popular military tributes which are held on each and every Carnival cruise,” said Duffy.
The venue features a distinctive All-American décor with logos of the five armed service branches of the U.S. military as well as patriotic and military memorabilia throughout the room. The venue’s walls are lined with photos and messages centering on three main themes:  Welcome Home, Thank You for Your Service and America’s Heroes.
Our short visit to Panorama included a dazzling display of cocktails, appetizers and a wonderful dinner in a truly beautiful dining room located at the stern  of the ship which included two decks, the second as a balcony..
For the next year Carnival Panorama will be on the west coast with weekly trips to Mexico.

The question is with 85 locations in California and Arizona, and at least two in the San Fernando Valley where we reside, why did it take us so long to discover One Hawaiian BBQ?  However the old saying “Better late than never” still applies so our discovery of Ono Hawaiian proved to be a happy event.
Our discovery took place not at one of San Fernando Valley locations but in downtown Los Angeles at 3010 Figueroa Street.  Here, at a media event, we were offered  a most appetizing buffet that included plate lunches and a large variety of Island favorites.  With the plate lunches there is Hawaiian BBQ chicken or Chicken Katsu, then Kalbi Short Ribs, the BBQ Beef and Kalua Pork.  For seafood try the Crispy Shrimp, Island White Fish or the Grilled Mahi Mahi which we thought truly outstanding.  Island favorites offer chicken and beef combo, a Hawaiian BBQ mix and Kalua combo.
No one leaves hungry at these restaurants.  Plate lunches include two scoops of rice and one scoop of Ono’s famed macaroni salad and veggies.  Another attraction we immediately noted was the modest prices, everything on the menu in the $10 range.  This pricing includes the Aloha Plate which allow one to sample two of the menu entrees, still for under $10.
All of the above was available at the special buffet that had been arranged for our media group.  We were also impressed with the presentation of most of these entrees, many with color photos on the menu.
Unusual among the beverages is fresh young coconut as well as fountain and bottled drinks.
To find the nearest location visit www.onobbq.com, there is also catering available on e mail at catering@onobbq.com. Most locations open  at 11 a.m.

An evening spent at the Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake certainly provided many reasons for visiting Ireland.  Presented to trade and media by Tourism Ireland it offered a new look at the Heritage, Culture and Cuisine of the Island Nation.  It also served to launch a new global communications campaign with the title "Fill Your Heart With Ireland".
Alison Metcalfe, Tourism Ireland's Executive Vice President for the U.S. and Canada, explained that the new campaign offers a fresh approach to set Ireland apart from other European destinations.  It features lesser known locations and attractions and highlights outdoor activities.
 At the Four Seasons there was the opportunity to meet with representatives from hotels and visitor attractions which highlight the unique nature of a trip to Ireland emphasizing the range of high quality accommodations, things to do, value for money and ease of access with Aer Lingus offering non stop service from both Los Angeles and San Francisco to Dublin.  Some emphasis has also been placed on featuring experiences during the shoulder and off season months.
The event got off to a quick start with some entertainment from a most talented Irish dancer and three musicians skilled in local music and played with traditional Irish instruments. 
Then local representatives came aboard to talk about the Wild Atlantic Way: the Causeway Coastal Route and cities of Cork and Waterford.  Also about upcoming events like Galway 2020,  a new culinary festival, "Taste The Island", as well as a look at Ireland's Ancient East and Dublin. 
Videos accompanied some of these discussions and the ones of the Causeway Coastal Route were most impressive as it hugs the cliffs towering above the North Atlantic ocean.  Photos of classic hotels like Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links and Clontarf Castle Hotel proved most enticing.
The evening concluded with a buffet dinner featuring classic Irish dishes and beverages.
'Tis was a fine evening to be sure'.

When a restaurant continues to please its customers for 35 years you know they are doing everything right.  So it is in West Hollywood at the Mandarette Cafe. 
This Chinese Bistro, Restaurant and Bar  is owned and operated by Ken Yang who continues to offer traditional Chinese Cuisine  but with ongoing modern dishes  like the present addition of new Fall entrees.  This menu always has ways to entice both regular customers and visitors to the busy Beverly Center area.
Items like Strawberry Shrimp are original and become classic favorites.  Originally from Taipei the family includes the Father, Wu Yang, who as head chef, has been responsible a  menu that  continues to expand while still offering classics like War Won Ton Soup, and his son, Ken Yang, General Manager.
On our visit we opened with this Soup which was almost a meal in itself with choice of chicken or pork wontons as well as chicken, BBQ pork, shrimp, Shitake mushroom and an assortment of vegetables.  And of course we had to try the crispy Strawberry Shrimp.  Almost everything on the menu can be ordered in either a small or large portion which makes trying new dishes easier and more inviting.
One of the new entrees is Three Cup Chicken, Beef or Squid, this a traditional Taiwanese dish slow cooked in a special sauce.  Two other newcomers are from Sichuan cuisine, one a poached fish fillet combined with bean sprouts and a spicy sauce and another spicy one, Aromatic Fiery Shrimp.
After our hearty Soup and shrimp the most we could try was the crispy vegetable Spring Rolls which came with a unique sweeten lemon sauce.  However we did manage to add a cup of green tea ice cream from the dessert list.
Here there is a beer and wine bar with happy hours to go with the lunch and dinner menus.
Mandarette Cafe is located at 8386 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, Ca 90048, Tel. 323 655-6115, web www.mandarettecafe.com.  Mandarette Cafe is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.   Hours are Mon. - Thur. 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.; Sat. 12 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.; Sun. 12 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Vittles readers will note that in recent issues there have been stories about quiet, serene places, where it is possible, for at least a short period of time, one can escape from the seemingly frenzied pace and traffic of Southern California.  Now we have found a true jewel and this so close to where we reside in the San Fernando Valley.
It is The Japanese Garden, and after a wondrous afternoon we spent there  recently we kept asking ourselves "why did it take us so long to visit it".  For here we left the our present mad world of hustle for unbelievable peace and natural beauty.  This oasis is named "SuihoEn, The Japanese Tea  Garden of Water and Fragrance".
There are expansive gardens, with waterfalls, lakes and streams which we shared with abundant ducks and geese.   The stone lanterns, Tea House, Shoin Building  and Heavenly Floating Bridge told us that we were indeed in the kind of garden that Japanese Feudal lords made popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. 
Here everything has meaning and a story to be told.  The Japanese lanterns on display throughout the Garden are made up of five parts or elements.  They are from bottom up Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Spirit.   Each lantern has its own name like Kasuga, Daikoki or Yukimi Doro.
Upon arrival at The Japanese Garden one enters the Entry Gate of 'mystic profundity'.  Next there is the Dry Garden with its large grass covered mound which represents Tortoise Island, associated  with  longevity, while large upright stones symbolize the 'island of immortals and everlasting happiness'.
Our tour stopped for awhile  as we watched four small geese move by under the careful eyes of  both mother and father with our camera recording the scene.  There is much to photograph here and we took many photos on  what was a perfect Fall afternoon.  It was a weekday and we had the Garden, all six and one half acres of it,  almost completely to ourselves.  As you move along there are benches placed in places with scenic views of the lush gardens and active wildlife.
The Japanese Garden is located at 6100 Woodley Ave. Van Nuys, Calif. 91406, Telephone 818 756-8166, Web wwww.thejapanesegarden.com.  Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with last admission at 3:15 p.m.  There is a small entrance fee and ample free off street parking.

It is hard to imagine that any U.S. city offers a more diverse number of ethnic cuisines than Los Angeles.  Often whole streets or neighborhoods have been settled by one ethnic group and now offers a number of restaurants presenting that particular cuisine.   Glendale is one example where the cuisines of Lebanon and Turkey have been present for generations.
Now a group of restaurants has entered the scene with the concept of making the cuisine of the Eastern Mediterranean as popular as pizza and hot dogs.  It is called Bok Bok with its original restaurants located in Las Vegas.  Family owned and operated it quickly expanded to five locations in that city and then expanded in 2018 to Los Angeles where there are now three locations.  Looking at the menu we instantly noted that they had retained the names of some of the traditional classic dishes of Lebanon and other countries boarding the eastern Mediterranean.  
So here with an entree like Shawerma Plate, flame broiled marinated beef it comes with rice pilaf, piaz, fattoush and tahini.  Often the choices include hummus, mutabbal, batata salad or quinoa eech.  Here the pickles are traditional pickled turnips and sides have names like Falafel or Boreg or Sarma, the classic grape leaves stuffed with rice, onion and spices.
Next we noticed was the very modest prices.  The highest priced entree is Beef Kabob or Chicken Kabob plates at $12.  With an exhibition kitchen everything is prepared fresh and on order and includes online and delivery.  Diners can feast on flame broiled shawerma, free range rotisserie chicken, made to order falafel, salads, soup and sides like we mentioned above. 
Our dining experience at Bok Bok took place at Bok Bok Chicken located in Culver City.  Other Los Angeles locations are in downtown Los Angeles and Eagle Rock and more to follow.  In Culver City the location offers free off street parking, patio dining as well as a contemporary decor and ambiance for leisurely eating.
Like everything the desserts are also classic of the region with Baklava, layers of filo pastry and walnuts soaked in rosewater syrup, or Ashta, shredded filo dough with pistachios and sweet cream or Gatnaboor, rice pudding with cinnamon and rosewater.
Bok Bok in Culver City is located at 4114 Sepulveda Blvd, Ste E, for lunch and dinner from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Telephone 424 29-8294.  Other Los Angeles locations are downtown Los Angeles at 108 West 2nd Street, Telephone 213 278-0651 and in Eagle Rock at 2146 Colorado Blvd. Telephone 323 474-6779.
On line at BokBokChicken.com.

The story of how the San Fernando Valley has evolved over a half century is well told at the Valley Relics Museum.
 What was once one man's hobby has become a legacy for a large part of Los Angeles. 
The man is Tommy Gelinas and the object of his interest preserving an earlier San Fernando Valley.  Being a resident of the Valley all his life, Gelinas has been able to watch the vast changes that have taken place in the Valley during the last half century.
So he decided to save some of the things that displayed the Valley in earlier decades.  He collected as he could whether restaurant signs, menus, automobiles, and most of all memorabilia  of people who played a role in the Valley's continuing development.  He looked for buildings, abandoned after enjoying a distinctive Valley role, to salvage what he could whether signs or artifacts.
 For over 20 years Tommy Gelinas has been determined to save as much of the memorabilia of these Valley earlier beginnings as possible.  His problem became space, storage space for all that he was acquiring.
The answer was Valley Relics Museum.  First he acquired a building in the west Valley, divided it into rooms, each with a separate theme, and opened the Museum.  The response was immediate. But the success of Valley Relics was such that it soon out grew its west valley location and made the move to its present location in 2018.
Now the museum is located in two hangers adjacent to the Van Nuys airport.
Nudie's was famous, not only in the Valley, but almost world wide for its elaborate lines of western clothing.  One exhibit is devoted to some of Nudie's clothing, and photos of almost every western star, all who were customers.  There is also a collection of photos of  Valley-Hollywood cowboy actors and western musical groups.
For many years I had an office in North Hollywood only about a quarter mile from Nudie's.  Mr. Nudie owned two Cadillacs, each  prominently decorated with western gear.  In front of each car mounted sets of long horns, on the sides mounted Winchester rifles and horseshoes.  And he was a familiar figure as he drove through the neighborhood.  Both these automobiles are now in the Relics museum.
Exhibits in another room include a collection of match book covers, many from familiar restaurants, again some subjects of reviews written by this Writer for publication.  The two halls include signs from well known restaurants and eateries as well as automobiles and artifacts.
For us, as longtime Valley residents, the visit was a trip down memory lane.
Valley Relics Museum is located at 7900 Balboa Blvd., Hanger-Charlie 3 & 4, Entrance from Stagg Street, Lake Balboa, Ca. 91406.  The Museum is open Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 11 a.m to 4 p.m. 
There is an admission charge.  Telephone 818 616-4083, Web www.valleyrelics.org.

 The second seminar we sat in on  was "Traceability  & Regulation of Italian D.O.C wines, with focus on Franciacorta: One territory, Three Denominations".
     This was conducted by Riccardo Curbastro, one of the owners of the  winery and vineyards, some located in the towns of Caprilo and Isee.   Here we tasted both red and white wines starting with a remarkable sparkling wine, Franciacorta D.O.C.G Brut made with Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir.  Another sparkler was Franciacorta D.O.C.G Rose Brut made with Chardonnay and Pinot Nero.
     Riccardo devoted much of this seminar to how wines are chosen to be labeled D.O.C or D.O.C.G.  He likened Italy's wine production as a pyramid with five sections, all  generic production at the base, then generic with identity of vineyards, vintages and varietals.  The top three, as the pyramid narrows in size are reserved for wines with distinctive appellations and a known  consistency in quality   Next D.O.C and finally at the top the D.O.C.G designation for wines with protected designation of origin. 
      Four of  the five wines we tasted were either D.O.C or D.O.C.G.  The three red wines included Curtefranca D.O.C 2013 RossoVigna Santella del Grom, a blend of Cabernet Franc, Carmenere, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Barbera.  We gave this wine high points.
   Another red was one hundred percent Pinot Noir, 2011 Serbino IGT.  The wine we liked best was Rontana - Sangiovese Colli di Faenza D.O.C 2016 with one hundred per cent Sangiovese grapes, but then we have a particular fondness for this Grape varietal.
   At the walk around tasting first we dived into the food table which included cheese stuffed ravioli and pasta in a mushroom tomato sauce. 
   The wineries represented were from all the famed Italian appellations, Tuscany, Piedmont, Veneto, Campania, Marche and Lombardy
   At the walkaround we directed our first visits to wineries from Italy's famous islands, Sicily and Sardinia.  We have a special interest in wines from Sicily since our mother was born there, coming to the U.S. as a three year old with five year old sister.
    The wineries in Sicily recently began looking  at some of their native varietals like Nero d'Avola, Eughenes Syrah and Nerekki Mascalese.  The same is true in Sardinia with local varietals like Isula, Lakana and Mamuthone
   The seminars were well attended with not an empty seat to be found and the walk around was a full house as well.
   Simply Italian may have been the wrong name for the event since the seminars proved there are no simple Italian wines.

 It was not until the decade of 1970 that Americans really became interested in wines.  It was a new generation and like all before them wanted to invent their own life-style and interests.  
      The wine industry responded with new wineries, more plantings, new varietals and as the result a new interest in wine tasting.  With all this new attention soon to follow were wine writers like yours truly.  Actually the dean of all wine writers in Southern California was the late Robert Balzer, then writing the first wine column appearing in the Los Angeles Times.
     In knowledge about wine Robert was way ahead of his time and often conducted wine courses for consumers and of course attended many wine tastings.  I  often sat with him at  these tastings and  at one recall saying that we had already heard much about these wines and varietals.  Robert responded by saying that he never went to one of these events without learning something new.  He summed it up by saying that "there is always something new to learn about wine."
     This proved to be a remarkably true statement which explains why we recently attended two seminars at the Simply Italian Great Wines tour conducted at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills.  This proved to be an all day event with five different seminars, then a three hour tasting with twenty two Italian wineries participating.
     The first seminar we attended was entitled "The Sparkling Life-Fresh & Fun from Fruili".  The Friuli Venezia Giulia region in located in the far northeastern part of Italy and includes the provinces of Pordenone and Udine.  The "Friuli Grave" appellation in recent years now enjoys a large D.O.C area thanks to some wines of the highest quality.  We tasted nine wines some made from local varietals like Glera and Ribolla gialla.  Popular for the region is Pinot Grigio and we tasted some that were 100 percent of this varietal.  All the wines we tasted were white with one exception, a Antonutti Spumante Rose Extra Dry which included Merlot and Refosco.  Its bright pink color most attractive.
     Conducting this seminar was Master Sommelier Tim Gaiser.  We had the opportunity to chat with Tim and learned that he had, until recently, made his home in San Francisco.  We had to add that this was our home town as well where we grew up.

 Since opening in 1991 the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum has had five million visitors.  The Museum besides chronicling the events of the Reagan presidency often hosts special exhibitions. 
     Currently an exhibition entitled "Egypt's Lost Cities" takes one back almost two thousand years as it puts on display recently discovered statues and artifacts that for centuries were hidden beneath the waters of the Nile Delta and Bay of Aboukir.  Also well told is how these remarkable treasures of an ancient civilization were discovered and recovered.
     This thanks to the dedicated man named Franck Goddio, a French mathematician who became an underwater archeologist  decades ago.  When Goddio started diving in the area he soon found himself face to face with remarkable well preserved statues and artifacts of a long forgotten thriving civilization. 
At the Reagan Exhibition viewers begin by looking at a screen showing Franck Goddio as he discovered some of these treasures and recovered them for showing in today's world.   Then follow into a room with two of the tallest statues ever recovered from ancient Egypt,  two  sixteen foot statues of Ptolemaic King and Queen, both carved from solid granite.    Many of the artifacts and statues date back to 300 B.C..
     This exhibition presents as fascinating look at two ancient cities that were lost to natural disasters and the rising tides of the Mediterranean Sea.  What Franck Goddio and his team has discovered and recovered shows a greater understanding of life during the age of the Pharaohs.  The current Reagan exhibition displays  200 of these authentic artifacts, some  showing the pots and vessels of everyday life.  These vessels made of bronze are remarkable in that their basic design still exists in similar containers today.
     Other statues to be seen include Bull God Apis,  God Hapy and a priest holding the god Osuis-Canopus.
     The two forgotten cities, that remained hidden underwater for centuries, were Thonis-Heracleion and Canopus.  Some of the recovered writings  reveal  Greek and Roman cultures that influenced Egypt through later centuries
     The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is one of Southern California's premiere attractions.  We had been to the Library in past years but our recent visit showed additions and vast improvements that have been made.
      Location alone is always a special treat as it has been built on top of a mountain with commanding views in every direction including the Pacific Ocean.  On this visit we made it a full day's outing with time out for lunch at Reagan's Country Cafe which also includes a Ronald Reagan Pub. 
     Twenty four galleries tell the story of Ronald Reagan's life before the Presidency and much of the personal relationship of he and his wife, Nancy.  With her death  she now is buried next to her husband at the Library.  We always enjoy looking at the perfect replica of the Oval Office at the White House and the place of business for so many presidents.
    The Reagan Library follows the tradition of established Presidential libraries first started by Franklin D. Roosevelt and has continued with every president since then.  California has a second Presidential Library for Richard Nixon located in Loma Linda
    The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is located at 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, Ca. Phone 1 805 577-4000.  It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. web www.reaganlibrary.gov.  There is an admission fee for visits to the galleries and exhibitions. 

 Dining is one of the easy ways to explore different cultures and cuisines.  And no one carries the banner of Brazilian cuisine better than Fogo de Chao restaurants.  Founded in 1979 in Brazil there are now 52 locations in Brazil, the U.S., Mexico and the Middle East.  Always  innovative the  restaurants recently introduced a new Fall menu.  So we were off once again to experience this for ourselves at the Beverly Hills location.
      First stop was the bar and lounge and the Happy Hour menu of cocktails and exciting appetizers.  Featured cocktail is Caipirosca which includes Tito's Vodka, lime and stick of sugar cane.  Also  Brazilian Gentleman made with Knob Creek Rye Bourbon, blended with passion fruit puree, gum syrup, lemon juice, honey and dash of Ramos Pinto Tawny Port.
       Added to the menu  items were  two new salads, one Butternut Kale and the second  Pear and Endive with a citrus-honey vinaigrette as well as roasted sweet potatoes.
     We had the opportunity to discuss the new menu items with Sevenir Girardi, general manager and told him we thought the lavish Feyoada buffet looked even more enticing.
     Of much interest to this Writer was a  new wine from Chilean winemakers, Vina Vik.  Named Eulila it is a red wine blend of Carmenere, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.  The name is a tribute to Eulila “Selma” Oliveira, Chief Culture Officer of Fogo de Chao.  We thought the wine very much of premium quality with  smooth velvet like flavors and a pleasing finish. 
     We also had to try the new dessert which comes from a traditional Brazilian Recipe.  It is Creme de Coconut which features shredded coconut baked with condensed milk and cream, then served warm with ice cream.
     Always available was the huge self serving table of meats, appetizers, salads and an infinite number of specialties.  And those favorite meats such as the Cowboy Ribeye or dry-aged steak including New York Strip and Tomahawk Ribeye.  Picanha, the prime part of top sirloin still proved to be one of our favorites, carved medium rare.
     Of course all of this was served as usual by the well trained service staff with the churrasco carved tableside by gaucho chefs.
     Fogo de Chao offers a unique culinary adventure at its restaurants, with everything on the menu offered in abundance.  We especially enjoy the Beverly Hills location with its most convenient valet parking that leaves one at the front door.,
     In Beverly Hills Fogo de Chao is located at 133 N. La Cienga Blvd. open for lunch and dinner daily.  On weekends there is a mid day brunch.  Tele. 301 289-7755.

 Our recent visit to Black Angus Steakhouse in the west San Fernando Valley showed clearly why it has enjoyed such a long reign of success.
     Meeting us at the entrance was John Akillian, general manager, and watching him that evening proved that once again success begins and is maintained by alert management.  The Northridge Black Angus has been in place for forty years and John has spent half of his twelve years with Angus at this location.
     If you are compiling a list of successful chain restaurants Black Angus  certainly must be close to the top listing.  It is currently celebrating its 55th year as one of the West's  premiere steakhouses. The decor and ambiance of the western cattle ranch has been coupled with an always contemporary menu that has stayed with popular trends. An add on is superb marketing which has always been present.  
     We had been invited to experience some of the Angus new menu items.  Featured on a separate menu was Black Angus Steak and Lobster Mac and Cheese with the choice of either a filet mignon or sirloin steak.  Also a Shrimp Scampi with a delicious dipping sauce as well as a Baby Kale salad.  Featured cocktails included a Tropical Martini, Pink Pomegranate Punch or Sparkling Pomegranates Lemonade.
   The regular menu offers a long list of appetizers with  the Wagon Wheel  Sampler Platter as a favorite.  It comes with crispy zucchini, buffalo styled chicken tenders, shrimp cocktail and loaded potato skins.  Another appetizer that caught our eye was the artichoke-spinach dip.   Entrees include what the menu calls 'partner items' matching steak and seafood on one platter.  Other partner selections included filets with either lobster or shrimp and several with other steaks.
    The menu shows a large selection of sides, all priced most modestly.   Choices include green beans with bacon, the au gratin potatoes, a house specialty, onion rings and garlic mashed potatoes.   Other sides include an acclaimed Caesar salad, french fries or steamed broccoli.
  Our server was outstanding in describing the new menu and  showed  us that Black Angus takes the time to truly train their employees which is one more reason for the longevity enjoyed by its many restaurants. 
    John Akillian told us that two new Angus restaurants had opened in 2018 and that Black Angus Lakewood has just completed a remodeled floor plan and  private dining room.  The Lakewood restaurant is currently celebrating its 40th year with a series of special promotions.
   Black Angus was founded in Washington in 1964 and now has 44 locations spread across six states, Washington, California, Arizona, New Mexico, Alaska, and Hawaii.  The restaurants continue their western cattle rancher theme with certified Angus Beef for Choice steaks and burgers.  Always planned for entire families the menu includes seafood, salads, sides and desserts.  The campfire dinners for two are a tradition at the Angus restaurants.
   The Bulls Eye Bar has been  a leader in offering craft beers as well as selected wines and freshly designed cocktails and Angus now offers a new wine each month as a special promotion.
  Black Angus Steakhouse in the San Fernando Valley is located at 9145 Corbin avenue, Northridge, Ca. 91324, Tele. 818 701-1600, web www.blackangus,.com.  It is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.  There is also a Happy Hour Monday thru Friday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. On Tuesday a Happy time from opening to closing at the Bulls Eye Bar.

Far From Ordinary was the perfect name for the Seminars and Trade Tasting of wines staged by Wine Australia in West Hollywood recently.  Using the theme ‘Australian Wine Made Our Way” some 45 wineries from six wine producing regions of Australia were present at the showplace 1 Hotel West Hollywood.  These regions included Western and South Australia, Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania.
We were fortunate to be included in the seminar that focused on the Shiraz grape varietal entitled ‘Heritage and Place-The evolution of an Australian Classic”.  Here we tasted and learned about how Shiraz was one of the first varietals planted in Australia and that today is home to what is the oldest Shiraz vineyard in the world dating back to 1843.  In all we tasted eight Shiraz, each from a prominent winery.  Some of the owners of these wineries were present at the seminar and took part the discussion. They included Bruce Tyrrell of Tyrrell’s Wines, James Lindner of Langmeil, and Chester Osboure of d’Arenberg.  Moderator of the seminar was Mark Davidson of Wine Australia.
All eight Shiraz rated high points on my score card but obtaining a perfect score was Langmeil ‘The Freedom 1843’ Barossa Valley  2015 Shiraz produced from vines planted in 1843.  The vintage is truly a classic.  Two others we also gave high marks to were d’Arenberg ‘The Dead Arm’ McLaren Vale’ 2015 Shiraz and Jim Barry Wine ‘The McRae Wood’ ClareValley 2014 Shiraz.
Following the Shiraz seminar the trade tasting took place with hundreds in attendance.  Besides the wine tempting appetizers were passed around as well as two tables loaded with  meats and cheeses.  There was also the ‘Made our Way’ theater  which presented walk in seminars on the Wine Victoria and Margaret River wine producing regions.
Among the many booths we were fortunate to discover the one for Yalumba Family Estates and a delightful young woman named Jessica Hill Smith, who is the sixth generation of the Samuel Smith family who founded and planted the first vines in 1849.  Moving the family and winery into the 20 and 21 centuries has been Robert Hill Smith who works consistently in matching varietals to the terroir.  He has also been responsible for producing some memorable vintages by matching and blending red varietals.
After taking a photo of the delightful Jessica we departed well informed on the promising future for Australian wines.

It would be hard to select a more idyllic location for a unique dining experience than the one we enjoyed recently.  Perched on the outdoor patio three stories above downtown Santa Monica overlooking the City’s famed Third Street Walk we were the guests of Donald Moore, Executive Vice President & Chief Culinary Officer for The Cheesecake Factory.
 This was a Media event designed to highlight items on a menu that is offered at some 203 locations in the U.S. with Donald there to personally describe how dishes are customized and created to show all the fresh ingredients.
Located on the third level of the Third Street Mall this Cheesecake Factory is a very large restaurant, complete with bar and lounge, an exhibition kitchen and the picturesque open patio where our tastings were served.
Four unique cocktails opened the proceedings including a raspberry infused Vodka, a Guava Daiquiri, Rum Mojito and Whisky & Ginger.  Next appeared a table with appetizers such as a pork belly slider, which proved to be our favorite.  But also a Hummus with warm Pita chips, an Asian chicken lettuce wrap tacos and an Eggroll sampler which included  Avocado, Tex Mex, and chicken Taquitos. These we selected and tasted in a casual setting while Chef Moore described the lengths the staff will go to find and select true flavored avocados as well as techniques to give tomatoes the desirable taste.
Next to arrive were ‘Small Plates & Snacks” which included a beet and avocado salad, Avocado Toast with marinated tomato and red onion, a plant based burger and crispy fried chicken sandwich.
Our tables each seated four and for the Menu Specialties that next arrived were served at each table family style.  We quickly noted the Pan seared Branzino with lemon butter.  This Mediterranean fish is one of our favorites and we noted the delicate texture of the sauteed fish and lemon sauce.   The Cajun Jambalaya Pasta came with shrimp and chicken sauteed with onions and peppers and a very spicy Cajun sauce.  Warned that it was indeed spicy we had to pass on this.  However the Chicken Madeira proved to be one of our favorites and learned that it is indeed the restaurant’s most popular chicken dish.  It was a moist chicken breast covered with fresh mushroom madeira sauce and melted Mozzarella cheese.  Then arrived the grilled steak tacos with soft corn tortillas, charbroiled steak with a Chipotle sauce and served with rice and beans.
By this time this Writer was reduced to just tasting such offerings as the Mediterranean grilled chicken.
After all Chef Moore had already warned us that, still to arrive, was our personal selection of more than 30 legendary flavors of Cheesecake.  Naturally we ordered one that included  chocolate, and tasted my dining partner’s pineapple cheesecake, as well.
Donald Moore has had a remarkable career with Cheesecake Factory.  Starting ten years ago as a kitchen manager at the Cheesecake Restaurant in Westbury. N.Y., within two years he rose to Executive Kitchen Manager and two years later, Area Kitchen Operations Manager where he oversaw nine restaurants in Northern California.  Two more promotions placed him where he is today as Executive Vice President and Chief Culinary Officer based at Corporate headquarters in Southern California.

The upscale Kimpton La  Peer Hotel in West Hollywood was the place where we learned much about the Slovenia, a country located in Central Europe and best known for its picturesque mountains, ski resorts and lakes.  Thanks to these geographic features tourism is one of the leaders in Slovenian economy.
The La Peer Pool was the scene where we met with some of our hosts and then enjoyed cocktails and a bountiful culinary experience.  Live entertainment followed highlighted by a performance by one of the country’s lead singers, Maja Keuc.
Capital of Slovenia is Ljubljana with a huge medieval fortress as one of its historic and cultural centers.  Actually Slovenia only came into existence as an independent republic after World War ll.  Some of the leading tourist attractions are located in Bled, Lendava, Moravske, Toplice, Radenci and Ptuj, all available throughout the year.
The La Peer Hotel was also new to us and we were impressed with its unique contemporary decor and ambiance.  It is located on La Peer Drive which is exactly one block long  between Santa Monica Blvd., and Melrose Drive in West Hollywood.

Certainly all the factors for creating a successful restaurant were in place when Franco and Donatella moved the location of  Il Barone Restorante two years ago.  Franco Barone’s culinary talents were already well known and he twice received Chef of the Year  Awards by the Southern California Restaurant Writers.  His wife, Donatella’s management abilities are also well known and she was, one year,  named Manager of the Year by the Writers.
So when the opportunity came to acquire a new restaurant site  presented itself the time was right for this talented pair to move Il Barone Restorante to 900 Bristol Street North in Newport Beach.  Success was  immediate with the restaurant continuing to display its exceptional Italian cuisine menu and  a knowledgeable, efficient wait staff to match.
The  restaurant's popularity has been such that reservations are often required for both lunch and dinner. 
The day we arrived for lunch the restaurant was full as usual without a single empty table.  After chatting with Donatella  my partner and I settled down for some serious dining.  We opened with the Calamari Fritti, then I ordered the Saltimbocca alla Romana, veal scaloppini topped with Parma prosciutto, sage in a white wine veal reduction.
My partner went with the Pollo alla Milanese, pan seared pounded boneless chicken breast, coated with seasoned bread crumbs. He opened with a soup, Stracciatella con Spinaci, vegetable consume; chopped spinach, parmigiano and egg drops.  At this restaurant there are so many choices that ordering often takes a good deal of time for decision.  The lunch menu offers a full page of tempting pasta dishes some interesting and unique thanks to Franco's culinary talents.
This restaurant has an exceptional wine list and the staff displays a knowledge of wine that is most refreshing.  Also at the new location there is a most comfortable bar and lounge.
Both the lunch and dinner menus offer daily specials   For the quality of the food,  its culinary excellence in preparation and service,  prices at Il Barone are surprisingly modest.   Here dining is still a leisurely experience to be enjoyed in elegant surroundings and a feeling of luxury.
Il Barone Restorante is located at 900 Bristol North, Newport Beach with free off street parking.  The restaurant is open for luncheon Monday thru Friday from 11 a.m.to 2 p.m., dinner from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.. Saturday dinner only and closed Sundays.  For reservations, often a must, call 949 955-2755.

Our advice when visiting M Grill in Los Angeles is ‘bring your appetite”.  Here you will find a classic Brazilian Steakhouse featuring Churrascaria in a  somewhat rustic ambiance and decor.
 We were there to take part in the birthday celebration of one of our travel writer colleagues.
Lunch started with several visits to a bountiful buffet loaded with meats, salads, individually prepared vegetable dishes and much more.  Then things got serious with the M Grill meats.  These are served in traditional Rodizio style where expert waiters come to tables with knives and a skewer, cutting freshly cooked meat while still hot.  What truly impressed this writer was how the skewer of meat, say top or bottom sirloin,   would contain both well done and rare portions to please the choice of the individual diner.
In all 14 different meat choices are available for lunch ranging from different parts of chicken, pork ribs, a house special Picanha, leg of lamb, Brazilian sausage and beef cuts. The dinner menu adds ribeye, short ribs, filet mignon,  Costelao and Rack of Lamb.
Here you will find a well trained service staff, a most comfortable bar and lounge and a wine selection that earned M Grill a national award.
Located in the heart of the Wilshire district of Los Angeles M Grill is open for lunch and dinner Monday thru Friday, with lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., than closed until  dinner which starts at 5:30 to 9 p.m.  On Saturday and Sunday only dinner is served from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
M Grill is located at 3832 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90010, Telephone 213 389-2770.

The early history of Santa Barbara can be seen in graphic detail at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum.  Founded in 1932 the Museum has been committed to preserving and sharing local history . 
 There is  the history and lifestyle of the  Chumash Native Americans who had settled in the region for many hundreds of years.  This the Museum covers as well as that of Mexican, Spanish and American cultures with holdings that include arts, costumes, paintings and furniture.  There are historic adobes buildings on site and currently an exhibition showing great photographers of Santa Barbara history.  Two other current exhibits include Edward Borein with art of the American west and a history of the lifestyle and culture of its people when it was a part of Spain.
For  this Writer it was still another of our explorations of Santa Barbara, this time over two days that  included some personal events.
 One of these events actually took place at the Museum Courtyard.  This proved to be a perfect outside setting able to host up to 150 people. The event we attended, a pre wedding reception, was just right with the ambiance of its Spanish past showing in both landscaping and colorful fountains.
 The Museum Courtyard is one of two venues available for rental.  The second is the Adobe Courtyard available for small receptions and cocktail parties.
The Santa Barbara Historical Museum is located at 136 de La Guerra Street in downtown Santa Barbara.  Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Sunday 12 to 5 p.m. 

The Golden Dragon is a fine dining restaurant with a intimate full service bar and lounge, a  dining room with booths and tables and a private room for small parties as well.  This is a restaurant with a very large menu with choices for al a carte selections as well as complete dinners.  For such quality and service prices are surprisingly modest.  There is also an outstanding wine list.
 The Golden Dragon offers classic Chinese dining with a serene atmosphere and decor, outstanding cuisine and attentive attention from a well trained staff, many with years of experience at the restaurant. 
Certainly the Southern California Restaurant Writers believe so since the restaurant has  received the Gold Award for Excellence an unprecedented 29  years in a row and was one year named Restaurateur of the Year.
 It has been family owned and operated by the Wang family since the day it opened in 1975.   Yuau-Der Wang and his wife, Chi-Yun are still active in the business they  founded so many years ago. Now, however, they  have their son, John, as restaurant manager overseeing day to day operations.   But most evenings you can still count on Mother Chi-Yun  to be on hand to greet customers.
  Our dinner, it could be called a banquet, opened with special egg rolls with mushroom, shrimp, chicken and vegetable and the shrimp toast.  Next came the hot and sour soup with shrimp and wontons.  Entrees which arrived family style included Lucky shrimp with a garlic white sauce, string bean beef, Walnut chicken with glazed walnuts and honey sweet sauce, a specially prepared roasted eggplant and the house fried rice with shrimp, pork, mushroom and shredded vegetables.  Besides traditional Chinese sweets  the restaurant also now features some western desserts .
 Golden Dragon is located at 2023 Harbor Blvd., in Costa Mesa with ample off street free parking.   The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, lunch starting at 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.  Dinner from 4:30 to 9:30  p.m.  On weekends the restaurant is open all day from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.  For reservations call 949 542-7162.

I do not play golf anymore but I still love going to golf and country  clubs for the beauty they offer with their manicured greenways and spaciousness. 
One of my favorites is the Tustin Ranch Golf Club.  The Tustin Ranch Golf Club is public but with all the amenities of a plush private country club.  And its restaurant under Executive Chef Sara Guddione offers an exciting contemporary cuisine with exquisite restaurant service.  There is the Pine Tree BBQ Patio for special events, the Players Lounge with its own bar and most popular of all its Sunday Brunch.
This Brunch, and we  recommend advance reservations, is from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and bring your appetite.  We missed seeing Sara on our recent visit for the Brunch but did get to chat with Executive Sous Chef Christian Estruda.  And  as usual Patty was there as our server with that wonderful smile.
The restaurant is open for dinner Monday thru Friday.  The Players Lounge is open from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.  seven days a week with a full menu.
The Tustin Ranch Golf Cub is located at 12442 Tustin Ranch Road, Tustin, CA. 92782.  For more information call 714 734-2106.

Not being local in Temecula we had to do some searching but when we did find Toast Restaurant it proved well worth it.
  For here was a restaurant that has brought  originality  and excitement to breakfast and lunch.  This shows in design as well as with the menu.  Booths are elevated slightly above dining room floor level creating unusual decor.
The menu takes ordinary breakfast items to a new creative level with Benedicts listed as Reuben, Smoked Veggie or Crab Cake. French Toast is offered as Tiramisu, Apple Pie or Creme Brulee.  I chose the Tiramisu which arrived with a unique presentation as addition to its flavors.    My dining partner chose the Lox & Loaded which was well named since it was presented on a large board heaped with cured fresh salmon, bagel, dill spread, capers, red onion, spinach & tomato.  I dipped in to help her finish it.
There is an “Other Stuff” menu with items like beer and bacon flight, or radical stack with pork belly, ham, burger patty and assorted add ones.  B.Y.O.. omelettes or burritos  are offered a with choice of six cheeses or seven meats and shrimp.
For later in the day there is a large list of sandwiches as well as a Ahi Poke Bowl, Korean short rib or shrimp ceviche.
Toast is located at 31093 Temecula Parkway in Temecula for breakfast and lunch daily and closes at 3 p.m.  Telephone 951 252-2500.

At Rose Haven Heritage Garden Temecula offers the perfect retreat from the busy life-style most people have today.  With its thousands of roses of many varieties, a reflection pool, gazebo and Children’s Garden it is a wonderful place to relax and retreat from today’s busy world. 
     This Garden has an interesting history since its founding in 1991.  On three and one half acres it was started as a meeting place for Rose growers to exchange concepts and cuttings.
     It is not city owned but operates with many volunteers and maintained with donations.  It is open every day of the year, from sunrise to sunset, and visitors are always welcome.  There is  ample off street parking and  no admission charge.  It was named a certified wildlife sanctuary  in 2011 by the National Wildlife Federation and is a member of the American Public Gardens organization.
     Rose Haven Heritage Garden can be found at 30592 Jedediah Smith Road and Cabrillo Avenue in Temecula.    
    While wine is so much a part of the Temecula scene Craft Beers have also achieved a significant presence not only in the city but in the region.
     Seldom do we ever visit the area without duly visited one of these Craft Breweries.  This time it was Refuge Brewery which first opened its doors   in 2012 with the idea of bringing the “ideas and concepts of Old World Belgian breweries” to Temecula.  The name Refuge came about from the history of how beer brewing monks had to flee France during that country’s religious revolution and begin anew in Belgian.
     This is a family business with Curt Kucera first starting some home brewing in his garage.  Both his sons, Jake and Chad, also became interested and shaped their education to brewing, Jake responsible for brands, logos and such and Chad who completed a Master Brewer program at Doemens Academy in Munich, Germany.
     Acting as our Hostess and Guide was Diane Kucera who is Events Director.  The Tasting Room which is adjacent to the actual brewery offers the decor and atmosphere of a neighborhood bar and lounge.  Being in charge of events gives Diane opportunities to stage both ticketed and non-tickets programs offering live music and food trucks.  One feature is live glass blowing and there is also a Brewer’s Club.
     As for the brews they  still maintain the Belgian method of brewing and the result is unique beers that often earn awards. 
     Refuge is a true success story with it now earning the title as the largest brewery in Temecula and all of Riverside County.  In addition a major expansion was completed in 2018 at the brewery.
     Refuge Brewery is located at 43040 Rancho Way in Temecula, Ca. 92590. Telephone 951551-6659.  Tasting Room hours are Monday-Thursday 3 to 9 p.m.; Friday 12 to 9 with a Happy Hour 3 to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 12 to 9 p..m. and Sunday 12 to 7 p.m.
     Our visit to the SugerPlum Zoo and Chocolates proved that there was more to see on the Temecula back country than vineyards and wineries.  This is a petting zoo perfect for children and adult photographers.  Once we had met Lori Rager, one of the owners, we were soon making acquaintance with Zeus, a Camel that showed less interest in me than me in him.  In my dream world I am always riding a camel through the Arabian desert.  We were also much taken with Aurora, a Zebra that looked like he had done much sleeping behind open shutters.
     It was a very warm day and we could sympathize with Daisy, a Juliana Pig that just wanted to sleep and more of the same.
     Of course before we left we had to try some of the chocolates too.
    Sugarplum Zoo & Chocolates is located at 39695 Berenda Road in Temecula.  There is an admission fee for both adults and children.        
     On the web atwww.sugerplumfarmoftemecula.com. Tele. 951 239-8694.

On the Rancho California Wine Trail we visited Avensole Winery  which has an interesting history.  Vince Cilurzo and Bud Van Roekel, two of Temecula’s pioneer vintners, first planted the vineyards that now surround Avensole.  The Lytton Family acquired the hilltop property and vineyards in 2014, then known as Van Roekel, and renamed it Aversole.  These vineyards are  more than four decades old and  now consistently produce award winning wines.   Since 2012  these vintages have received 21 awards.
     The restaurant was designed by Susan Lytton, already an experienced interior designer.  The result is that one enters a hilltop, park like area offering wide vistas in every direction.  There is a complete bar and lounge and then an extensive patio for dining.  The menu shows salads, flatbreads like chicken pesto and avocado toast, sandwiches and lunch and dinner daily specials.  The mains include salmon, half chicken and shrimp linguini.
     Our lunch in this scenic ambiance included stuffed mushrooms, a  Avensole burger with caramelize onion and mozzarella cheese, as well as the fish & chips.
     Week days the restaurant is open for lunch only.  On Saturday and Sunday there is also  dinner service and live entertainment.
    Avensole Winery is located at 3467 Rancho California Road, Temecula, Ca. 92591.  Telephone 951 252-2003, web www.avensolewinery.com..
     Then it was back on the De Portola Trail.
     Another winery that was new to us was Somerset Vineyard & Winery.  But when we arrived there it all looked familiar to us from an earlier time.
     The mystery was soon cleared up for on our earlier visits it was named Keystone.  Now it was Somerset and we were greeted by Owner Kurt Tiedt.
     Arriving at  Somerset one passes a most elegant garden with flowering roses and in the distance vineyards.  Kurt explained that here the emphasis is on the Rhone styles varietals that originated in the south of France.  And promptly we met three that have already won awards. They were Somerset 2018 GRV, a white Rhone blend, Somerset 2018 Viognier and Somerset 2018 Roussanne.  Then there were blends like 2017 Le Merridio that included Grenache, Consault and Mourvedre or 2013 El Maestro with Grenache, Syrah and Tempranillo.
     The picturesque Somerset Tasting Room is surrounded by greenery covered patios perfect for picnics, tastings or just enjoying the countryside setting.
     On weekends things become even more active with live entertainment, special events including food trucks, and dancing.
     Kurt invited us on a tour that included the barrel room and then the winery itself with its gleaming stainless steel equipment.
     Somerset Vineyard & Winery is located at 37338 De Portola Road, Temecula, Ca. 92592, Telephone 051 751-6892, web www.somersetvineyard.com.

When it comes to food, for us the Italians have it all.  But then we might be slightly prejudiced since my Mother was born in Italy. 
Which brings us to our recent dining experience at Pechanga Resort’s Paisano’s Restaurant.  Located in the Casino Paisano’s opens each evening at 5 p.m.
Once you step into the entrance design, decor and ambiance show that you are in Italy,  and one  look at the menu told us we were going to have a special dining experience.  While admiring all of this we ordered and sipped a cocktail and studied the extensive wine list.
 One thing we instantly noted that some local Temecula wines were included and that the list was predominately California  with only a small number from Europe.
Veal has always been one of the mainstays of classic Northern Italian cuisine and this menu showed all the traditional favorites, Parmigiana, Marsala, Milanese and to our delight, Osso Buco.  When the waiter arrived he, all too soon, had my order for this dish which is braised veal shank, mushroom herb risotto and sun dried tomato pesto.  Traditionally it is served with the bone upright on the plate and that is the way ours arrived.  Adding to the flavor of the meat was the porto bella mushrooms surrounding the bone.
Another favorite, Calamari Frtto was listed with the Antipasti, and we soon had this in front of us, shared with my dining partner.  Other Zuppee Insalate included Caprese and Caesar salad.  There are many choices on this menu.  Signature dishes included  prime filet,  braised beef short ribs or pappardelle pasta.  My dining partner chose one of Chef Bruno’s daily specials, which was large shrimp and scallops over a pappandelle pasta.
Our wine was Beringer Knight’s Valley 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon.  And a noble vintage that we thoroughly enjoyed.
The list of Pastee Risotti showed  a Rigatoni with vodka sauce, linguine & clams and a Frutti de mare pasta with a whole variety of seafood while Secondi di Carne has three chicken entrees, the  veal  dishes and a  ribeye steak.  Secondi di Pesce offered Cioppino or Branzino, grilled Mediterranean sea bass. 
From the dessert menu that offered Tiramisu and Galati Misti we chose the  Vanilla Cheesecake with Panacotta and Hazelnut ice cream.
Service  matched the  surroundings and cuisine with knowledgeable waiters.  .
Paisasno’s is open Sunday - Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.  Telephone  951 770-8066.

Once again we were on a visit to Temecula to explore its wine country and again it started with check in at Pechanga Resort Casino.  With the completion of the North Tower there are one thousand sixty rooms making it the largest Casino in California.  One of the things we immediately noticed was how Pechanga has evolved into a family oriented Resort.  Parents with small children were everywhere and the pool and outdoor areas are especially popular for all ages.
Our room on the fourth floor included a private cabana outside with two club styled chairs and a table perfect for relaxation at any time, day or night.
However we were soon on our way for a full day of exploring what was new on  Temecula’s De Portola Wine Trail.  What we discovered was that it should now be called De Portola Wine and Food Trail.
This was our first visit to Robert Renzoni Vineyards and their extensive tasting room and restaurant.  It commands a hilltop with striking views of surrounding vineyards.  Here we met Phillip Randall, general manager, who acting as our host led us through a tasting of some most interesting wines, many from Italian varietals.  These included Sangiovese, Barbara and Montepulciano which has such a commanding presence in northern Italy.
The family has an  history with the beverage business extending over 100 years, first as an importer and later as a wholesale liquor dealer serving upper New York State.  Then the family decided to move to California and purchased the scenic property on De Portola Road.
So it was that we sat  at Mama Rosa’s Trattoria, on the outdoor patio, to enjoy our outstanding pizza while viewing the vineyards that were to be seen in every direction.  This Trattoria features a full menu of Italian specialties to accompany the  vintages
Robert Renzoni Vineyards is located at 37350 De Portola Road in Temecula, Ca. 92592, For hours call 951 302 8466, web www robertrenzonivineyards.com..

“Long ago, when men cursed and beat the  ground with sticks, it was called witchcraft. Today it's called golf.”  Will Rogers
In the first part of the 20th century if there was one man that truly represented the United States it was Will Rogers.  As an authentic cowboy he moved on to be an actor, radio commentator,  newspaper columnist,  world traveler, and a pioneer in aviation. 
 As a humorist and philosopher his quotes and remarks are as fresh and pertinent today as when he made them three quarters of a century ago.  All of which made him one of the most beloved and admired men in America.  And the whole nation mourned at his untimely death in 1935 in an Alaskan plane crash.
But thanks to the Will Rogers State Historic Park his memory and life-style can still be enjoyed.  In 1922 Rogers purchased 200 acres of hillside property in what is now Pacific Palisades with the idea of making it a ranch for his horses.  First and foremost for his whole life Will Rogers was a cowboy who loved horses. He learned roping as a cowboy when he was six years old and it continued to be one of his favorite activities throughout his life.   In 1930 he moved his family from Beverly Hills to the Ranch which continued to be expanded from a six room cabin to a home with 31 rooms, 11 baths and seven fireplaces.
“Never squat with your spurs on”  Will Rogers
In 1944 Betty Rogers, Will's widow, deeded the ranch to the State of California as a memorial to her husband.
We visited this Park  on a Summer day and wondered why it has taken us so long to get there.  We started at the Visitor Center which is located in the Roger Guest House and Garage.  Here there are historic exhibits of important periods of his life as well as a mini theater that shows his films.  He had roles in fifty silent films and twenty one "talkies"  A tour guide is required to tour the residence and we were fortunate to have David  Shepherd, park ranger, as our guide.  He was both knowledgeable and most friendly and has been with the Park  five years.
We also viewed the extensive stables where Will Rogers maintained a large collection of horses, some which he used especially for his roping.  And polo became one of the principal activities with his sons as participants.  The polo field is still maintained today.
Besides Will and Betty the family included four children, with one son dying at an early age of diphtheria.  The house also saw many famous guests including Walt Disney, Clark Gable and the Charles Lindbergh family.  Decorations in the house all have a western theme with paintings, saddles and ranch style furnishings.  We visited his office where Will Rogers wrote a daily column which appeared in some 300  newspapers.  He wrote over 4,000 of these columns. 
 We  settled at one of the picnic tables with  our ice chest, filled with goodies, for lunch while enjoying our serene surroundings.  The picnic grounds are extensive and some with pits for barbecues and all providing extensive views of the whole park.
The Park offers a full schedule of events during the year including hiking, horse back riding, and a  film event where Rogers movies are presented.  For a schedule of these events go to www.willrogersranchfoundation.org.  The park is easily accessible from either Pacific Coast Highway or 405 Freeway at 1501 Will Rogers State Park Road, Pacific Palisades.
“Good judgement comes from experience, and a lot of that comes from bad judgement"  Will Rogers

It would be difficult to find a more beautiful dining room than the Napa Rose located at the California Grand Hotel in Disneyland.  Designed to bring to the world the beauty and charm of California’s wine country this restaurant marries this setting with an exceptional dining experience.
Impressive with its high vaulted ceiling and 20 foot windows that overlook Disney’s California Adventure Napa Rose also includes a showplace exhibition kitchen and an extraordinary collection of wines from every part of California.
Matched with a truly professional culinary and service staff it is designed to showcase California’s wine country cuisine.  Heading this culinary team is Executive Chef Andrew Sutton who opened Napa Rose after a career that included the renowned Auberge du Solei in Napa Valley.  At Napa Rose his inspired wine country  regional cuisine has captured national attention.
General Manager Philippe Tosques, who has been with Napa Rose for ten years, pointed out that just as much attention is given to the wines and the care given to the paring of food and wine.  Here there are quality California wines that have not yet earned the recognition they deserve.  The number of labels is huge with many available by the glass including some from premium high end wines.
Reading the list may be compared to discovering the ‘who’s who” of California’s diverse vineyards.
Our Waiter, Mickey, was typical of the service staff which often has been with Disney for many years.  He has been with Disney seventeen years and with Napa Rose since the day it opened over a decade ago.
Included on the menu are featured four course, prix-fixe Vintner’s Table selections that are paired with a hand-selected wine, and new dishes are created each week by the chef and his culinary staff.
Some creations by Sous Chef Steven Ruiz that were on menu included Braised Wagyu beef cheeks with mushrooms; maple leaf farms duck a l’orange; grilled Colorado lamb porterhouse and cast iron roasted beef filet mignon.  Each course served with a matching wine.
The Napa Rose is located at Disney’s Grand California Hotel, 1600 S., Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, Ca.  For reservations call 714 300-7171.  Valet parking.

The number of Americans who actually reached California on Route 66 is diminishing rapidly but thanks to a new exhibition at Santa Monica History Museum the memories of this famous road are well preserved.
Entitled “California’s Route 66: Hiding in Plain Sight” the exhibition was presented for the first time at an  inaugural opening which we were fortunate to attend.
Route 66 has enjoyed a  romantic history from the time it opened in 1926  connecting  Chicago with Los Angeles.  Through the decades it has been the subject for movies, radio and TV series and song.  It also played a major role as many people moved west especially during the time of the Great Depression.
For Santa Monica Route 66 ends  at the corner of Lincoln and Olympic Boulevards just blocks from where the Santa Monica History Museum exhibition is being shown.
The highway actually followed what before was an old trails track first used by Native Americans and Early Settlers.  What it developed into was a destination itself with a host of roadside attractions which lured visitors to stop and experience.
All of this changed in 1985 when it was decommissioned as a federal highway with the creation of the Interstate Highway system.  It is still possible to drive much of Route 66 but it is a byway now and what were once busy towns are now all but deserted.
To preserve what Route 66 meant for much of the  20th century  the California Route 66 Historic Route Association exists to maintain its history and traditions
One exhibit brought back memories of the Burma Shave signs that at one time could be found on Route 66 and almost every other highway.  Another of interest was the fact that Will Rogers  was one of Route 66 most prominent supporters.
In parts of Los Angeles the Route 66 route is used daily and without most commuters being aware of it.
The Santa Monica History Museum is located at 1350 7th Street, Santa Monica, Ca 90401, web www.santamonicahistory.org. 

 Another attraction on Moonstone Beach Drive is Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill.  Our dinner here proved to be a special event showing a large menu with a full page of exciting seafood entrees.  Following cocktails we opened with a cup of creamy clam chowder, then followed with two entrees which we shared.  One was the seared sea scallops on a bed of Spanish rice,  the other  Shrimp pasta, large shrimp sauteed  with mushrooms and white wine and tossed with rotelle pasta topped with Parmesan cheese.
Besides the seafood this restaurant has a large assortment of lamb and beef entrees and eleven sides available.  The lunch menu is also large and includes fish tacos, sandwiches, burgers and salads.
This full service restaurant is large with every table offering an ocean view.  There is a full bar and lounge as well as a very large oceanfront patio.
There are forty tables and the restaurant can accommodate over 200 people.  It is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week with a Sunday Brunch.  Hours are for lunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., dinner 5 p.m.to 9 p.m.  The restaurant is closed between 3  and 5 p.m. each day.
This restaurant does not except short notice reservations.
Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill is located at 6550 Moonstone Beach Drive, Cambria, Ca. 93428 with off street parking.  Telephone 805 927-3859, web. www. moonstonebeach.com.

Cambria  is another of those California beach cities that have changed little  over the decades.  Downtown  is nestled in a valley a short way from the coast.  At the coast Cambria has Moonstone Beach and following the coast line  is Moonstone Drive with its long row of inns and resorts.
Moving through downtown Cambria is a look of an earlier time in America.  Most of the shops and businesses are small and intimate featuring a single commodity or service.  The city is divided in its downtown area with an East Village and West Village.
The East Village places Cambria’s historic past on display.  There is an historic Walking Tour through East Village that links the city’s past with the present.  Most of the winery tasting rooms are located at the East Village.
Moonstone Beach Drive follows the ocean shore for a few miles offering views of scenic coast to the far distance.  We found the trail adjacent to this road most rewarding with the close-up ocean shore and stunning views.
As a stop on the  San Luis Obispo Coastal  Wine  Trail Cambria hosts many wine tasting rooms as well as some very special restaurants.  On this visit we visited one of the downtown tasting rooms, Cutruzzola Vineyards.
 The wine tasting rooms in Cambria are in both villages, Cutruzzola Vineyards is located in the West Village.  We were greeted by Mari Fedrow at a very well appointed facility with adjoining off-street parking.  Cutruzzola Vineyards was established early in the 21 century with the actual vineyards located at   Cambria adjacent to the Pacific Ocean.  Thanks to this terroir  Cutruzzola features wines from the Riesling and Pinot Noir varietals that do particularly well in a cooler climate.
The wines we tasted proved to be exceptional vintages for Riesling and Pinot Noir.  General Manager Reyna Jonas explained that the vineyard proved ideal for  these varietals and the powerful wines they produce.
The only other wine produced is an excellent Zinfandel.  This  is from a vineyard located in the Russian River Valley at Forrestville from vines first planted in 2006.
We enjoyed the wines and considered the Cutruzzola Tasting and its facility well worth a visit.  It is located at 555 Main Street in Cambria, and open daily.  For hours call 805 927-2670, web www.cutruzzolavineyards.com.
Once again we visited Stolo Family Vineyards  on the outskirts of Cambria.  It is the only winery in Cambria that includes 22 acres of vineyards, the winery, tasting room and picnic patio.  All this only a few minutes drive from downtown Cambria.
 Here we met Diego Aguirre who is general manager.   On an earlier visit we met Winemaker Nicole Bertotti Pope  who took us on a tour of the  modern winery and explained the adjacent vineyard is only three miles from the Pacific Ocean located on Santa Rosa  Road 
Nicole learned her winemaking skills at Cal Poly.   With its nearby ocean location  Stolo offers true Burgundian style wines.  Adjacent to the tasting room and vineyard there is a patio for relaxing picnics  and a whole series of summer  concerts while tasting some very good wines.  The vineyards are on land that has been in the  Stolo family for generations.
 Stolo Family Vineyards is located at 3776 Santa Rosa Creek Road in Cambria.  The tasting room is open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Telephone 805 924-3131.

Our visit to the San Fernando Mission was a retreat from the electronic frenzy of Los Angeles to the peace and tranquilly of another time.  The San Fernando Mission dates back to 1797 as the seventeenth in the chain of missions extending along Alta California that became El Camino Real.
The San Fernando Mission stands apart, in one aspect,  from all the other missions since it is named for a King of Spain.  He was King Ferdinand  who reigned from 1217 to 1252.
There is much to see and enjoy here so allow plenty of time for a visit.  Both the East Garden with its flower shaped fountain and the West Garden with rare and massive trees invite leisurely resting places to relax and let a busy world pass you by for at least  a brief time.
The Old Mission Church, an exact replica of the first erected in 1806, is open to visitors and the interior furnishings are from the original some dating back to the l6th century.  On Sundays Mass is still conducted here at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
Behind the Church is the Bob Hope Memorial Garden where the famed entertainer and his wife are buried.  Here again is a lovely designed garden that encircles the original  cemetery and resting place for the first neophytes and settlers.
The main building of the Mission, entitled ‘Convento’ was completed in 1822 after 13 years of construction. Along its corridor are twenty one Roman arches, each made with massive amounts of adobe.
Here can be seen the original workshops that included blacksmith, saddle and pottery sites with all still containing the original furnishings.
Also here the Historical Museum which includes art and photographs as well as costumes of the earliest arrivals to the region
At the Convento is the original wine cellar of the Mission and a room offering several historical films on early life at the original Missions.
The Mission property includes Bishop Alemany High School and the San Fernando Mission Catholic Cemetery.   The Cemetery is large and was ablaze with color from huge number of flower bouquets the day we were there.
This Writer is well acquainted with this Cemetery since my parents, Joseph and Josephine Hilbers, rest there under a live oak tree.
For visitors the San Fernando Mission is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  There is a $5 admission charge for viewing the premises.
It is located at 15151 San Fernando Blvd., Mission Hills, Ca.  with free off street parking.  Telephone 818 361-0186, web www.missiontours.org.
The serenity we enjoyed at the Mission soon vanished for en route home we encountered a massive traffic tie-up at the 405/ 101 freeway interchange. Welcome back.

When it comes to wine Lebanon has a history that extends back almost six thousand years.  The land and climate was friendly to viticulture and it was peopled by Phoenicians who were renown principally for their wide travel and trading.  They were shipping wine to Egypt two thousand years before Christ. 
Modern vineyards and winemaking received fresh stimulus when the French arrived in the country during the last half of the  19th century.  First by Jesuit monks and then by French vintners.
When we decided to explore wines from Lebanon we visited Phoenicia Restaurant in Glendale where Ara Kalfayan shows award winning Lebanese cuisine.  It also features  a huge wine list that prominently features wines from all over the world and some from Lebanon that are exclusive to Phoenicia.  Ara gave us free reign to explore his wine cellar and seek out some of the classic vintages from that country.
Chateau Kefraya is produced in the Bakaa Valley just 18 miles from Cana where the Bible tells us Jesus turned water into wine.  Chateau Ksara makes French styled blends and the winery dates back to 1857.  Chateau Fakra offers red wines from the Kfardebvian Valley north of Beirut.  Another Bakaa Valley winery is Domaine Wardy. 
Most of the red wines are blends of classic French varietals like Cinsault, Mourvedre, Syrah and Cabernet Sauviginon.  Cave Kouroum features wine  blends of Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot and Syrah.  Chateau Ksara also offers a white wine  blanc de blanc of Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Semillon
In the last two decades the number of wineries in Lebanon have expanded dramatically. Most vintners are using French varietals but still to be found are some of the original varietals like Obaideh and Merwah.
Our explorations of Ara's wine cellar complete we settled down to eat with a throng of other diners.
We opened  with appetizers that included Hommos; Labni, Lebanese cream cheese served with garlic; Warak Enab, grape leaves stuffed with rice, oil and vegetables, cooked in lemon juice and olive oil, and Tabbouleh, chopped parsley, crushed wheat, tomatoes and onions.   Some hot appetizers we tasted included Kibbeh Makli, beef dumpling stuffed with ground beef; Bourghoul , onions and pine nuts as well as San Bousek, freshly prepared dough with ground beef and pine nuts and Rekakat, a selection of Lebanese cheese baked in a pastry dough.
With the cold appetizers we had the Chateau Kefraya Comte de M, a French chateau style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvedre and Syrah aged 16 months in French Oak.  It was a very good wine, hearty yet  smooth and with a long finish.   With the hot appetizers a Chateau Ksara 2016 Reserve Du Couvert which was a blend of Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.  This winery dates back to 1857. 
 Our samplers of grill selections included Beef Kafta, ground beef, onions, parsley and spices, grilled on skewers.  This is one of our favorites and arrived with  lamb chops marinated with spices and grilled.  Also chicken breast kabob, perfectly prepared rice and the best french fries we have had in a long time.  Here we had a most unusual wine, Massaga 2017, a Rhone styled blend, also from the Bakaa Valley, a blend of Censaulis, Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon and Mourvedre.  Mellow and with a hint of sweetness it was a welcome companion to the meats.
This is a restaurant where everything is done well and most professionally.  
Phoenicia is  located at 343 North Central Avenue in Glendale with  off street parking.  It is open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. except on weekends there is live entertainment with a 2 a.m. closing time.  For more information or reservations call 818 956-7800. 

  The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library has established itself as an outstanding museum by hosting  interesting historical exhibitions.  And through the years we have taken full advantage by attending many of them.  At present the exhibition is devoted to the life and works of Leonardo Da  Vinci.
 Exhibits include actual reproductions and models  of  his mechanical inventions which included a unique musical organ as well  as the first design of the machine gun in warfare.
His art is included with a history of painting masterpieces like Mona Lisa and The Last Supper and how the search for one of his painting , Salvator Mundi, is current news.
There are reproductions of his writings, Filios and designs as he studied the concepts of flight by observing birds and how the wings controlled lift and control.
 His life story is well told and how his writings have amazed scholars for the five hundred years since he lived.
 Many of the authentic artifacts are on loan from the Leonardo 3 Museum in Milan.
 The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is one of Southern California's premiere attractions and is worth a visit regardless of personal political affiliations.  We had been to the Library in past years but our recent visit showed additions and vast improvements that have been made.
 Location alone is always a special treat as it has been built on top of a mountain with commanding views in every direction including the Pacific Ocean.  On this visit we made it a full day's outing with time out for lunch at Reagan's Country Cafe which also includes a Ronald Reagan Pub. 
 Twenty four galleries tell the story of Ronald Reagan's life before the Presidency and much of the personal relationship of he and his wife, Nancy.  With her death  she now is buried next to her husband at the Library.  We always enjoy looking at the perfect replica of the Oval Office at the White House and the place of business for so many presidents.
 The landscaping and gardens that surround the Library are worth the time for a stroll and the views they offer.  The landscaping includes a replica of the White House Rose Garden. Also to be seen a part of the Berlin Wall brought to the U.S.
The Library is well staffed and the docents we met were most courteous  and helpful and with so much to see and do we needed them for advice and guidance.
The Reagan Library follows the tradition of established Presidential libraries first started by Franklin D. Roosevelt and has continued with every president since then.  California has a second Presidential Library for Richard Nixon located in Loma Linda
In all there are now twelve Presidential libraries in various states.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is located at 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, Ca. Phone 1 805 577-4000.  It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. web www.reaganlibrary.gov.  There is an admission fee for visits to the galleries.    
The Reagan Country Cafe is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.

The Seven % Solution offered a new approach to the introduction and tasting of California wines.  Taking place in Vernon,  the heartland of Los Angeles industry, it included 42 California wineries , sixty grape varieties and some 200 wines.  An industrial firm producing restaurant aprons, Hedley & Bennett, was the actual location offering both in and outdoor sites for the winery booths.
Official host was Bergamot Wine Co, with Allison Levine of Please the Palate as event coordinator and Michael Helton of One Table Catering presenting the well chosen brunch that accompanied the tasting.
The participating wineries were from all parts of California and some with names that have strayed far from the traditional.  There was the Donkey & Goat Winery with brands like Twinkle or Eliza, Front Porch Farm from the Russian River, Horse & Plow from the Carneros region of Napa and Rootdown Wine Cellars.  Then there was Dirty & Rowdy Family Winery, Fine Disregard Wine and Nonesuch Wines.
The theme was “For Love of the Grape” with proceeds  going to that nonprofit organization  dedicated to the perpetuation of grape varietal diversity in California.
Certainly that diversity was present with grape varieties like Blaugrankisch, Negrette, Touriga Nacional or Zweigelt to taste and learn to pronounce.
With such diversity it proved to be a memorable occasion that those fortunate to attend and even Vernon looked, well not good, but o.k. on a pleasant Spring day.

When most people think of Italian its about the foods and wines.  O.K., pizza, and I rest my case.  However if your interest broadens then may we recommend Eataly Los Angeles located in the Century Mall. 
We were there recently to attend a well conducted seminar on Prosecco by Luigi Capasso. Luigi is Senior Beverage Manager at Eataly.  These sparkling wines are popular, not only in Italy , but enjoy a huge world wide following.  Last year almost five hundred million bottles of Prosecco D.O.C. wines were produced with twenty five percent for Italy and seventy five per cent for the foreign markets.
Prosecco, like almost all sparkling wines, are available as Brut, Extra Dry or  Dry.  This generally pertains to the sweetness with Brut the driest and the other two ranging higher residual sugar levels.
At our seminar we tasted four Brut wines and four Extra Dry.  All were recognized Italian brands and all D.O.C.  Principal varietal grape in these wines is Glera with a minimum of 85 per cent.  Four other native grapes to the region including Verdiso can be used in the blend.
D.O.C. rules include a second fermentation of at least 30 days and 18 months in the bottle.  All the wines we tasted were of excellent quality and it was just as matter of person taste as to which received the highest points.  Using a twenty  point system we gave one Brut nineteen points, two eighteen points and one seventeen points.  With the four Extra Dry wines we tasted one earned nineteen points, two eighteen points and one seventeen points.
As we tasted these wines an Eataly Chef was preparing Italian appetizers and pizza to match the sparklers and these proved  a showcase  on Prosecco’s food-pairing qualities.  Prosecco is a perfect food sharing wine which accounts for its appeal that continues to grow each year in  production volume.
Eataly L.A. is located on two floors of the Mall with the restaurant on one level and on the second a huge assortment of all the best in Italian foods and wines.
With my own Italian ancestry leaving all this was not easy.

Cedar Creek is one of those restaurants that you would have liked to visit much sooner.  And now that the personal discovery has been made want to visit it much more often.   We could not find anything not to like about this restaurant.  The ambiance and decor is what we would call contemporary rustic with, not one, but four fireplaces, high beamed ceilings and several dining rooms and patios.  The bar lounge is spacious with a view to the outdoor patio and yes has its own fireplace.
The menu is large and the cuisine  all  American.  We were at Cedar Creek for lunch which quickly moved to luncheon as our group had to try several of the most tempting selections.  We opened with the Calamari which was tender, flavorful and arrived with two dipping sauces.  Next to arrive was the Chicken Papaya Salad, a house specialty, with fresh fruit and batter bread.  Then followed the Monte Cristo with fresh fruit, and French dip prime rib sandwich.  The wine list is large and well selected and one of our party enjoyed a glass of Argentina Malbec while the rest of us had iced tea, lots and lots of ice tea as our most attentive waitress could not stand a half empty glass.
We thought the staff both well trained and professional.  We told co-owner Jim Walker just how much we admired the excellent, attentive service and he promptly introduced us to NanceeJo Hoertz, general manager.
The Cedar Creek is a large restaurant with four dining spaces that can accommodate private events.  Actually the restaurant can accommodate 300 guests at one time.  There are two back Terrace rooms for private events, also the well shaded front patio for mixer events.
Our next visit will be for dinner after looking over a menu that offers New York Steak with Whisky sauce, Porcini Crusted Filet Mignon, Cedar Plank Salmon, Chicken Cordon Blue or Jumbo Prawns over Garlic mashed potatoes.  We thought prices most modest for the quality of the cuisine and attentiveness of the service.
Cedar Creek is open for lunch and dinner Monday through Friday with an extensive Brunch menu served on Saturday and Sunday.
Cedar Creek is located at 20 Pointe Drive in Brea, California, 92821, with ample free off street parking.  Hours 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., later for the lounge and bar. Telephone 714 255-5600, web www.cedarcreekbrea.com.

The Chianti Classico Experience was the name for the recent seminar we attended in Los Angeles.  Conducted by Jeff Porter it also featured  representatives  of  the eight wines we tasted.  All the wines were of the 2016 vintage but from different geographic areas.
And yes the black roster, that has been the symbol of Chianti Classico since 1716, was also present.  It is true that when  many Americans think of Italian wine the association is with Chianti.  There are many reasons for this association,  Sangiovese is the basic grape varietal for all Chianti Classico with its roster trademark.  It produces a wine with a ruby red color with intense aroma and a pleasant, gentle taste and mellow tannins.  The fact that Chianti can be consumed while still reasonably young adds to its attraction. Now however  many producers are adding more age to their wines.
For the 21st century producers of  D.O.C.G. Chianti Classico made some major changes both in where designated vineyards are located but also the blend.  For Chianti Classico wines Sangiovese must  include eighty per cent of any blend with only a few other local red varietals permitted.
 The Consorzio Vino Chianti was first established in 1927 by producers in four provinces--Florence, Pistoia, Arezzo and Siena.  The D.O.C.G. was recognized in 1984. 
The eight wines we tasted were from all the geographic regions,  all of 2016 vintage with two years barrel aging and ranged in the 14 per cent alcohol level.  One producer showed two wines, each from different geographic areas and terroirs.  The result was that while similar in excellent quality other characteristics were much different.
The Los Angeles event took place at the Republique Restaurant and was well attended by local restaurateurs, sommeliers and retailers.  Following the seminar Italian appetizers were served while offering the opportunity to taste the wines of each producer.
Presently there are 560 members of Chianti Classico producing 35 million bottles annually with exports to some 100 countries.

The idea of flight captured human imagination long before that first plane left the ground.  Then the early beginnings of  commercial aviation which offered excitement and adventure with the concept of faster transportation.
All of this is well spelled out at the Flight Path Museum located at the Los Angeles International Airport.  An invitation to a special event first brought our attention to this museum which offers exhibitions  of aviation history and memorabilia as well as guided tours and educational programs.
The event was a salute to the significant contributions of Asia Pacific airlines to global aviation.  This included an exhibit that showed vintage flight attendant and pilot uniforms and artifacts from Air Bali, Asiana, Cathay Pacific Airlines, Korean Air, Malaysian Airlines and Singapore Airlines.  This exhibition then became available for public viewing at the Museum..
On our visit we met  Agnes Huff, president, who acted as our guide and explained what the Flight Path Museum and Learning Center has to offer.  There are exhibits listing the many airlines that have existed both in the present and the past.  Uniforms of pilots and flight attendants from around the world are on display.  One room is devoted to  Aerospace and the dominate role played in Southern California on its development and future.
Other rooms include an Aviation research library and one with model planes from almost every airline that has ever existed.  There is much emphasis as a learning center with Flyers Programs featuring flight simulators, Navigation and aircraft ground and air operations. These are offered to participants 12 years and older.  Some of these courses are taught by retired airline pilots.  These courses are held on five consecutive Saturdays with a $25 registration fee.
Besides its exhibits the Museum enjoys a wonderful location at the LAX Imperial Terminal and from its windows airplanes can be seen taxing, taking off and landing at the world's second busiest airport.  Sometimes an older plane is parked adjacent and available for actual tours from the Museum.
The Flight Path Museum is located at 6661 W. Imperial Hwy, Los Angeles.  There is free admission and free parking.  It is open Tuesday thru Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Telephone 424 646-7284.  Learn more on the web at www.flightpathmuseum.com.