Pinole Restaurant Recap – Not Just for Pinoleans

[Krys]

If you are shopping at Hilltop Mall, the Apian Way Mall or perhaps visiting Marine World, you might consider a stop in Pinole. It is right near the freeway and there are some nice restaurants that will have you eating better than at the chains directly at the side of the freeway. There are some nice places to have breakfast, pick up picnic supplies or even have a meal that is the equal of any upscale SF restaurant.

Also, Old Town Pinole, which I never knew existed before December of last year, is a charming Norman Rockwell type of small town.

For anyone new to the area … well that’s the reason I started visiting these restaurants. There wasn’t much information and I was curious. Hope this is a helpful starter.

Living in the area, the bottom line for me is … will I be a regular customer? Here are those places:

I’ll be a regular at THE RED ONION which has a great breakfast served on an outdoor patio. They also have home made pies, burgers and fries.

PEAR STREET CAFÉ has the food and atmosphere of a smart SF restaurant in addition to a well thought out wine list with flights and a selection of fun cocktails. There is jazz on the weekends.

I like SWISH WINE BAR, a clever wine boutique. I will probably be a regular at their informative and entertaining Wednesday night wine class and tasting. It might be a good place to pick up a bottle of wine for a picnic.

GIOVANNI’S Southern Italian food. Giovanni makes two types of Calabrean (tip of the boot) sausages from a recipe handed down from his family. There is a sausage and chicken BBQ on Saturday. I don’t eat Italian food often, but I will probably be a regular at Giovanni’s Italian night on the second Tuesday of each month where a six course dinner is served while an accordion player sings Italian love songs. Need to try the BBQ chicken. This is another good spot to pick up picnic supplies. There are Italian wines and beers as well as a small grocery.

STORES AND SMALLER RESTAURANTS

Some of these places were too small to post about, but are fine

CARNECERIA EN VALLE / VALLEY PRODUCE. Just opened at the time of this post, it seems like a market with huge potential. It is a nice small veggie market. There are house made sausages (chorizo tied with corn husks), a fine selection of Mexican meat cuts and Mexican cheeses. There is a post about this market.

THE NEW DELI is a little sandwich shop in the Del Monte Plaza. There are three home made soups ever day. They made their own meatloaf and house baked cookies. I had a nice vegetarian split pea soup with chopped celery and slices of sweet carrots. The meat loaf sandwich was the soft type that is heavy on the filler. Despite the name, there is no Indian food.

ICE CREAM MANIA sells Gunther’s Ice Cream which is from a Sacramento Ice Cream company that was opened in the 1940’s. It has the huge range of flavors like Baskin Robbins. The chocolate mint and Bing cherry seem to be the recommended flavors. This store has milk shakes (extra malt or banana for a charge), freezes (coke or root beer blended with ice cream), coke or root beer floats, smoothies and sundaes. Custom ice cream cakes are available. There is a link to the California board below about Gunther’s Ice Cream. It is located in the Apian Way Plaza in the Starbucks section.

G & L LIQUOR in the Del Monte Plaza is probably not the place to buy your fine wine. It could be but I was distracted by the huge selection of cocktail mixes. There must have been five different types of Margarita mixes alone. If you are a fan of fruit flavored wines like Arbor Mist, they carry every brand of fruit wine in every flavor … no kidding. It stopped me in my tracks as I admired the back cooler which was a jewel box of colored wines. Strawberry Andre is always available, a personal favorite.

NOT REGULAR PIT STOPS, BUT FINE OCCASIONALLY

Mostly I don’t eat the type of food being served very often (like fried chicken).

For Tex Mex, excellent thin house made chips and salsa, some fine margaritas and Mexican beer, stop by THE JUMPING BEAN.

MOONDOGGIES has Millers hot dogs and sausages and homemade soups. This small hot dog shop also has salads, wraps and a dozen types of Bud’s Ice Cream. The owner is an Elvis fan and there is an interesting collection of memorabilia and a juke box.

THE ALLEY CAFÉ is an old fashioned coffee shop serving large portions for good prices. It is a good choice for breakfast or a sandwich. Probably the best value for a dollar in town.

THE EMBERS is a better version of an Emile Villa type of restaurant. It’s a good breakfast spot and I suspect has a good burger. Meats are grilled in a roaring wood-fired oven. I enjoyed my breakfast here and will probably go back to try their hamburger or BBQ ribs with Persian rolls.

BLACKIES is a hamburger stand that sells fried to order Maryland Fried Chicken, a crispy skinless fried chicken simply coated with flour salt and pepper. The original Blackie sold the place over a decade ago and it has had a few owners. It is currently for sale. The chicken was great and I hope the new owners keep the tradition going.

Although ANTLERS is mainly a hard core bar, it has special events like crab feeds for special sporting events like the super bowl or corned beef and cabbage on St. Pat’s day. The one dinner they serve at night ($5) is a good value for the price. It’s a BAR though.

WILL NOT DARKEN THEIR DOORS

Some places that I won’t return to or don’t plan to try (unless I hear otherwise from locals)

THE WAFFLE SHOP. I never heard a good word about it from locals. As one woman said, “It’s the kind of food you can expect where your breakfast is $3.99 and your child eats for free”. (Saturday special). It had a Denny’s look about it.

HUNAN VILLA – Chinese food meets the Matrix. Very popular among the locals, but my one lunch was enough to discourage me from trying it again. Maybe … I hear the garlic spinach is good. If you try it, please report back.

PINOLE CREEK CAFÉ – I loved the feel and look of this restaurant which is in an old Victorian house. The bar and part of the restaurant is in a lovely glass covered sun room. The food on my visit was only fair and a bit pricy. The prix fixe menu is the best option to get around the prices. There is the country club feel of another era where people drank martinis. I would not be surprised to see Mrs. Robinson lunching with Benjamin.

HAVE NOT TRIED

Believe it or not there are a few places I haven’t tried. The link below has a list of all Pinole restaurants.

I’m putting my email address on this post which I don’t do often. If you have any thoughts about the restaurants I visited or places I have missed, it would be wonderful if you posted on the Chowhound board and share that info. However, if you are shy and have a great tip, please email me and I’ll check it out and post some time in the future.

TACHIKAWA JAPANESE RESTAURANT – This restaurant has a new owner. I don’t know a lot about Japanese food, but I will try it in the future. Anyone tried it? It gets favorable reviews in the link at the end of this section.

I think I remember OHANA HAWAIIAN BARBECUE INC getting a good post on Chowhound. This is near the Apian Way Plaza. I’ll probably check it out in the future.

Just above the Apian Way Plaza there is a little food court which includes UNCLE CHUNG'S SZECHUAN which always seems busy. The review link in this section has favorable mentions and a sample menu. I don’t know. One of the appetizers is a flaming Pu Pu platter which has cho cho with a flaming hibachi … Anyone? They do have tea smoked duck and a few dishes beginning with the words Yu Shiang (eggplant, chicken, etc)

Also doing brisk business in the food court is TAQUERIA MORENA. Link in this section has a menu. Again I don’t know. They have a banner on their door about $1 Tacos. They serve breakfast items that included chilaqueles and machaca. Pozole and menudo are offered. In fact they cater and they have the soups on their catering menu. The menu also mentions milenesa, Tacos dorados and Mexican hot chocolate. It might be worth checking out.

RISTORANTE DUE ROSE is also near the plaza. I haven’t checked out restaurants in this neck of the woods, but this place has caught my eye a number of times.

Here’s a link to a user review site for Pinole.

http://dineview.com/search.fwx?/pinole/restaurants/&cat=R&zone=00002-024

LINKS TO PAST POSTS

THE ALLEY CAFÉ – Pinole - $2.75 Soup/Sandwich Combo
February 08, 2005
http://www.chowhound.com/california/boards/sanfrancisco/messages/116640.html

Pinole – ANTLERS TAVERN – The $5 Tri Tip Dinner
February 24, 2005
http://www.chowhound.com/california/boards/sanfrancisco/messages/118870.html

Pinole Possibilities? BEAR CLAW BAKERY pies?
December 09, 2004
http://www.chowhound.com/california/boards/sanfrancisco30/messages/109064.html

Pinole – BLACKIES Fried to Order Maryland Fried Chicken
March 03, 2005
http://www.chowhound.com/california/boards/sanfrancisco/messages/119935.html

Amazing find - hand made chorizo tied with corn husks
CARNECERIA EN VALLE / VALLEY PRODUCE
March 13, 2005
http://www.chowhound.com/california/boards/sanfrancisco/messages/121604.html

THE EMBERS – Wood-fired Steak & Eggs, Persian rolls
February 19, 2005
http://www.chowhound.com/california/boards/sanfrancisco/messages/118202.html

Pinole - THE FLYING COW - Don't miss the outstanding pastry
March 14, 2005
http://www.chowhound.com/california/boards/sanfrancisco/messages/121693.html

Gem Alert! - GIOVANNI’s – Southern Italian from Calabria
March 07, 2005
http://www.chowhound.com/california/boards/sanfrancisco/messages/120509.html

Sacramento - GUNTHER'S ICE CREAM?
March 14, 2005
http://www.chowhound.com/california/boards/california/messages/20169.html

Pinole – HUNAN VILLA – Caucasian Chinese
February 28, 2005
www.chowhound.com/california/boards/sanfrancisco/messages/119532.html

Pinole – THE JUMPING BEAN
March 13, 2005
http://www.chowhound.com/california/boards/sanfrancisco/messages/121570.html

Pinole - MOONDOGGIES – Miller Hot Dogs & Elvis
March 04, 2005
http://www.chowhound.com/california/boards/sanfrancisco/messages/120121.html

PEAR STREET BISTRO – Welcome to the New Millennium
February 28, 2005
http://www.chowhound.com/california/boards/sanfrancisco/messages/119452.html

PINOLE CREEK CAFE
March 05, 2005
http://www.chowhound.com/california/boards/sanfrancisco/messages/120304.html

THE RED ONION – Outdoor Patio Overlooking Pinole Creek ... Pies
March 14, 2005
http://www.chowhound.com/california/boards/sanfrancisco/messages/121693.html

SWISH WINE Tasting & Class – Serious Wines with a Sense of Humor
February 24, 2005
http://www.chowhound.com/california/boards/sanfrancisco/messages/118864.html

Link: http://www.chowbaby.com/searchrest.as...

[Mari]

Due Rose is a treasure in the middle of that strip mall.

I went in after a long bike ride in the area with a group since the place was recommended by a Pinole resident.

The bolognese was delicious. Maybe I was really really hungry, but it was one of the best pasta dishes I have had in a while. Others in my group enjoyed the lasagna, which looked good. They serve warm dinner rolls too. Give it a try when you get a chance and post your comments.

[Tracy L.]

Thanks for posting these recommendations. We plan to take our pooch to the Pinole Regional Shoreline in the near future. It will be nice to look forward to good food as well as a fun walk.

[Krys]

That is a nice area. I hope you'll report back on what you think of some of these places.

[pm]

Due Rose is probably one of the best few restaurants in the El Sob/Pinole area.

[Krys]

Seems Jonathan Kauffman likes it too (link to review below).

and two Chowhound thumbs up for Due Rose. Will have to try. Any favorite dishes?

I forgot in the original post, but have you tried Bangkok Thai in the Safeway Plaza on Appian. I saw some reviews pasted to their window.

Any restaurants you don't like in the area. Most of my posts are based on one visit. Wouldn't want to steer anyone wrong. Perhaps the fact this is the only restaurant in the area Kauffman reviewed is saying something

Link: http://www.eastbayexpress.com/issues/...

[Solop]

Tried Due Rose several months ago. Despite one serving glitch (my soup never arrived -- on the other hand, it didn't show up on the bill either) we were quite pleased. In fact, we've booked a reservation for New Years Eve.

I can't say I had any favorite dishes, given that I've only tried two things so far, but will report back if I find anything particularly delectable.

[rworange]

Great, I only gave it one try and would be interested to hear more about it.

[Krys]

FYI ... seems that there is a farmer's market that starts in May (yeah).

In September there is a food event in Fernandez Park. Seems like an opportunity to sample the food from all the local restaurants (NOW I see this). From the website ...

" ... a cornucopia of delicacies and treats provided by Salute's, Pear Street Bistro, Hunan Villa, Hometown Buffet, The Jumping Bean, Biancos' Catering, The New Deli, Contra Costa College Culinary Arts, The Bear Claw Bakery, Starbuck's, and Krispy Kreme. The vintners poured an assortment of fine wines to satisfy every palette, among the vintners represented this year; Blackstone, Cartlidge & Brown, Dry Creek, Ranch Zabaco, Wente, Echelon, Renwood, Raymond, Natheson Creek, and J. Lohr, plus many others.
Duevel Beer and Fiji Water provided an alternative beverage as well.

The Tom Jonesing Band and Dancers lit up the night with their music and entertainment."

No, I am NOT getting paid by the chamber to post about Pinole. Turns out I insulted the president's restaurant in a post (but I LOVE his other two).

If you live in Pinole here's a link to the goings on about town.

Link: http://www.pinolechamber.org/

[Krys]

Bear Claw Bakery, in business since 1912, is the Contra Costa version of Neldham’s, Merrit Bakery, Virginia Bakery, Shuberts, Eplers … etc. It is an old fashioned European-style bakery.

Located in Old Town Pinole, it is the only European bakery in the area and it compares favorably with the bakeries mentioned.

Here are a few items Roberto and I have shared since December:

Donuts: Beats Bob’s and Donut Alley easily. Almost in the same class as Apple Hill donuts which, in my opinion, are the best in Northern California and worth the calories. A plump, tender cake donut was covered with a rich chocolate frosting that filled the small donut hole … lots of donut, very little empty space in the center.

Herb Baked Chicken Sandwich: I chose the nice marble rye baked by Bear Claw. There is a layer of tender slices of herb covered chicken breast. The herb coating is so good that I order this sandwich with mayonnaise only. I don’t want the lettuce, tomato, etc to compete with that delicious chicken. I can’t think of a better cold chicken sandwich in the East Bay … or SF.

Buttermilk Coffee Cake: Moist and not overly sweet. I had the raspberry. Blueberry and whole wheat were also available.

Mardi Gras: The fried to order, hot square beneits covered with powdered sugar were the highlight. They also sell a nice hot cross bun The gumbo and jambalaya were good, but I wouldn’t order them next year. Don’t like the pizza in general, so the crawfish pizza was my least favorite. An …. interesting three piece band played outside the café.

Strawberry and Cream Cake – Complete list of cakes at end of post. They make their own jams for the fruit fillings in the cakes. For every four cakes you buy, you get a basic butter cream cake free or a discount on other varieties.

The delicate, light vanilla cake had a thin layer of strawberries between layers and lots of barely sweetened whipped cream. I like Neldham’s version better because they are more generous with strawberries, but I liked the different type of cake used at Bear Claw.

They also sell Sunrise organic coffee by the cup and by the bag. You can have the coffee ground to your specifications. Although I usually like dark roast coffee, I enjoyed the mellow Mike’s Blend with a mix of Sumatran, Guatemalan and Peruvian beans.

Apple turnover – Very flakey with a decent filling. I’m not a fan in general of turnovers from this type of bakery. However, it is vastly superior to any apple turnover from Bay Area panendrias.

Danish: The namesake Bear Claw, was a lighter, more Danish like version with a nice not overly heavy filling. They also have butterhorns, cheese stars, raisin snails and fruit Danish.

Have not tried the muffins, fruit rings, cookies or brownies.

Besides the sandwiches , there are soups, wraps, salads, specials (like fried chicken … usually cold) and wraps (usually chorizo, potato and egg). Other than the sandwich, I haven’t tried much of the lunch items.

Negatives: There’s almost always a wait in line. No quick duck in for a cup of coffee. Of course, that is a good thing in a way because it means they are well liked. The schedule of baked goods seems based on the whim of the family, so some items appear and disappear. I was trying to buy a loaf of bread today, but they didn’t have any (except frozen) and there was an uncertainty about when they would be baking bread by the loaf for retail sale. They don’t have sell slices of their cakes often and never samples of their pies. I really have a need to sample a cake or pie before committing to a whole one.

The bakery began its life in Richmond on MacDonald and 4th by Albert Hoeffer and his son Ben. After 60 years in Richmond, the bakery moved to Pinole and is still run by family members Mike and Terri Hoeffer-Stott and their children. Luke, JJ, Lucie and Gracie.

CAKES

Basic Butter Cream

Cake: Chocolate or White
Icings: Butter Cream (Chocolate, Vanilla, Lemon). Whipped Cream (Vanilla or Chocolate)
Custards: Vanilla, Chocolate, Fruit, Rum, Crème de Menthe
Fruit: Raspberry, Apricot, Cherry, Boysenberry, Blueberry, Peach

Champagne Cake
White cake with wine and brandy custard, topped with pink whipped cream

Charlie Ross Cake
Chocolate cake with whipped cream middle and whipped cream on top covered with Guittard chocolate.

Black Forest Cake (A Bear Claw best seller)
Chocolate cake with Amaretto and cherries covered with whipped cream and shaved dark chocolate

Chocolate Delight
A very rich chocolate cake, chocolate custard, chocolate icing, and melted Guittard chocolate

Carrot Cake

Fruit Basket Cake
Four layers of seasonally fresh strawberries, banana and pineapple with whipped cream

Strawberry Banana Supreme
White cake with sliced strawberries and bananas and whipped cream

Strawberry Royale
White or chocolate Cake, strawberries and whipped cream and topped with melted Guittard Chocolate

[Krys]

The preferred method of addressing customers was “you guys”.

“Do you guys want anything else”, the server said to a table of women.

“How do you guys like that?” a couple was asked by a different server.

The link below to the East Bay Express review pretty much nails the décor, but the food has obviously slipped since then to match the strip mall ambiance.

I kept trying to think of what the house baked rolls reminded me of and it hit me … Olive Garden bread sticks in roll form. I like Olive Garden breadsticks, but the rolls certainly didn’t match the description in the review. The foccacia was crude and tasteless like something I imagine would be produced if Wonder Bread made foccacia.

The Insalata de Calameri had the whitest, rubberiest squid that I have ever tried served on a bed of greens so drenched with the dressing that I didn’t finish it …. partly because my entrée was served two bites into the salad … it didn’t even occur to the server that this was a problem. “Here ya are”, she said.

You could say that the Crab Ricotta Ravioli hinted … no… whispered of crab … a very hushed whisper … inaudible. The wrappers on the four raviolis were hard in spots.

The zabaglione served on top of peach sorbet was excellent and the peach sorbet wasn’t necessary. The slices of out of season strawberries detracted from the dessert. Wait … it IS strawberry season.

Did I order the wrong thing from the restaurant? Well, I ordered off of the specials insert. I would assume that a special would be the safe thing to order. I was there on a Friday, so it should not have been an off night in terms of the kitchen.

I really wanted to like this restaurant. This area needs more good restaurants in a fast food wasteland. However, The Olive Garden has better food at better prices served more competently. It was a waste of calories, money and time.

Link: http://www.eastbayexpress.com/issues/...

[Krys]

“It faces East, welcoming the morning sun, on a gentle hill over-looking the pebbly shore. Its Queen Anne grace beckons him home, coaxing him there after along day at sea, offering quite repose and a fragrant cup of tea.”

The above sentences are at the beginning of the pink flyer that goes on to describe the tea service at Captain’s Cottage. With your check (a departing love note folded and closed with a gold seal), you are treated to the recitation of a little poem.

“This is a unique tea parlor”, said a departing customer.

I would have to agree with that. I don’t think I’ve seen anything to compare with it. Lois Boyle, the proprietor, got the idea for the tea parlor after hosting a fundraising tea for 200 for the Richmond Museum.

The tea was held in a historic house and museum and museum patrons were asked to lend their family tea services for the event. Boyle decided she liked hosting teas in a turn of the century setting (although on a smaller scale). The previous century, that is, 1900's.

She liked the idea of sharing her mother’s lovely china and glassware with guests. The servers are dressed in grey and white turn of the century servants outfits (think Upstairs / Downstairs).

The yellow Victorian was being remodeled when Boyle purchased it. The interior, down to the light fixtures, are to her specifications. The curtains are lacy, the carpet is dusty rose.

Tea is by reservation only. Call the day before. Boyle only prepares enough tea sandwiches and scones for anticipated customers.

There are 21 loose leaf teas to choose from. Most are British but there are a few Chinese teas. The list of available teas is at the end. Boyle says that her favorites are Monks Blend, Buckingham Palace Garden Party and Cream Earl Grey.

There are three rooms in the tea house. There is a table in the front gift shop as you enter that looks out on San Pablo Avenue through lace curtains.

The largest room in the back, decorated with lots of Bearington bears (all for sale) has five tables. There is a small room in back with a single table for about a dozen people that has a nautical theme.

I sat in the gift shop filled with bears, doilies, giftware and items that please Boyle’s taste. The furniture is from Boyle’s family home.

I chose the Monks Blend tea mildly flavored with grenadine and vanilla. The tea cup was removed and warmed. A little tea strainer with caddy is placed over the cup to catch the tea leaves.

The baked goods are from Gourmet Express is San Francisco which supplies restaurants with food. The cookies seemed to be of the Archway variety. The flyer says that food allergies and /or special needs can be accommodated. My suggestion would be to request tea with additional scones, the best of the items offered, and skip the other courses.Although, the second course wasn't bad. You have to like a Pringle with dip.

First course - sweets

Tiny triangular lemon poppy seed and cinnamon pecan scones and with a cookie. You can buy the jars of English strawberry jam, Devonshire cream and Lemon Curd that accompany the scones.

Second course – tea sandwiches

My favorite is what Boyle calls the Captains boat. This was spinach dip on a Pringle garnished with a bit of green olive.

I also liked the artichoke dip on a water cracker decorated with a bit of pimento.

There was a cocktail slice of pumpernickel topped with chicken salad and sprinkled with chopped walnuts.

My least favorite was the round of light rye topped with melted American cheese and a avocado mayonnaise with a bit of black olive.

Third course – savories

The least successful course with appetizers that were of the Trader Joe’s variety.

A mini quiche
A ‘potsticker’ filled with a spicy creamed chicken mixture
Queen’s Cake – a fried puff pastry with what seemed like more creamed chicken.
A frilly toothpick with a black olive, small red grape and two small cubes of cheese of the supermarket variety.

Fourth course – more sweets

A date cookie
A cookie with a smidge of apricot
A chocolate covered strawberry. The strawberry was good.

In my case the last course was served on a lovely green Depression ware plate.

The check was presented on a china dish decorated with violets and accompanied by a starlight mint and two other tiny hard candies. The four line poem recited by Boyle began

“It is with love and affection I send you on your way ….”

There is gentle background music and alternating sounds of chirping birds croaking frogs and such.

As I left Boyle wished me a good day and waved from the door.

With four mini courses and a lot of tea, it is quite filling. Boyle said that a customer had complained once that there was not enough food. I know that even by the third course I had had enough.

Saturdays are the busiest days. The restaurant can be booked for special events like Bridal showers.

It is more the ambiance rather than the food that is the appeal here. I will say that the tea is good and I like that the tea is loose leaf. I’ve been at some upscale English teas where tea bags were offered instead of loose leaf tea.

It is frilly. It is a place for ladies only. It is for you to decide if this matches your tastes.

For the past six years, Boyle has done what she loves to do, with her unique sense of style, surrounded with the things she loves. She enjoys sharing her favorite things with customers. You have to admire that. How many of us do what we really love?

Teas Menu – on a green and white stripped menu with a border of pansies

Loose leaf teas can be purchase for home.

Assam Tarajuli FBOP – A tippy tea (containing tips of the leaf) that is full bodied with a round smoothness. From one of the best Assam orthodox tea gardens.

Berry Berry – A natural sweet berry tea with black and red currants as well as raisins.

Blueberry – A mouthwatering aroma. The tea is even better

Buckingham Palace Garden Party - An exotic character with soft hints of Earl Grey and Jasmine.

Chamomile – Perfectly formed florets with rich deep flavor. The world’s best comes from Egypt.

Captain’s Treasure Chest – A spicy decaf black tea blended with orange and cinnamon.

Cinnamon Apple – Fresh aroma with piquant flavor evoking memories of Spice Islands.

Cranberry – So good it’s a favorite of cranberry growers – need we say more?

Cream Earl Grey- Imagine the world’s best Earl Grey with creamy sweetness. (Boyle said that the tea was flavored with vanilla to smooth out the flavor).

Darjeeling Mim – Excellent Darjeeling reasonably full-bodied with lovely muscatel character.

Earl Grey – Top Quality Celadon tea scented with citrus bergamot

English breakfast – Good body but not overpowering. Coppery bright and excellent flavor also available decaffeinated.

Formosa Gunpowder- A slight grassy typical green tea character.

Ginger Peach – A delicious blend of healthy ginger with ‘chin drippin’ good peach flavor.

Irish Breakfast – A stout robust blend with superb color and very full bodied

Jasmine with flowers – Jasmine flowers layered between green leaf

Lover’s Leap – A somewhat light estate with bright liquor and excellent flowery flavor

Mango-Passion fruit – A mellow tropical fruity character

Monks Blend – A mysterious blend of grenadine and vanilla. Amen.

Moroccan Mint – Chinese gunpowder green flavored with mint leaves.

Peppermint – Takes your breath away. The most flavorful and eye-watering peppermint you will ever taste. Hails from the cascade mountains in the Pacific Northwest.

Russian Caravan – A bright light tea which relives the heady days of the mystery of the royal court of St. Petersburg.

Strawberry Cream – All the delicious flavor of fresh strawberry combined with the goodness of green tea.

Vanilla – A rich and thick flavor that shouts ‘Welcome Home’.

The link below is to an East Bay Express Review that has the hours and address.

Link: http://www.eastbayexpress.com/issues/...

[sonatina]

I have to agree you don't go to this establishment for the wonderful food, you go for the ambiance and the decent price.

One server (I believe the owner) had a story to tell about everything. I had booked this for a larger group of people, so we were spread over several tables. I wasn't crazy about the ringing of the bell for our attention and then the ensuing stories, which seemed unreal.

When I called with a final count for our group, I was told "I will prepare and serve enough food for exactly your group size." That was great. On the day of, two ladies were ill, but I figured we would still pay for them (since I agreed to a certain size) and we'd have a little extra food. Not the case. Each table was served exactly ONE of each food item per person at the table. Not to mention, when two of the six ladies at our table left mid-way through the event, the next course only provided, again, exactly ONE food item for each of the *four* remaining ladies. That was kind of annoying -- especially because I was not overwhelmed with the quanitity of food provided; I felt there could have been more, unlike the previous poster.

Our menu was quite similar to that listed above, although our final course was just an iced cookie.

Overall, for the price ($16 all inclusive) I thought this was an OK deal. However, I sure felt like the staff was doing us a favor in having us and serving us. I'd probably try any other place I could (I think there's a fun sounding place in Benecia?) before I go back to this place.

[Krys]

It was Cinco de Mayo, so I tried Taqueria Morena in honor of the day.

I had the tacos dorado folded in half over a nice filling of carne asada and Mexican cheese. The shells were a little greasy, but the steak was good. I added the shredded lettuce and chopped tomatoes were on the side.

There are items that are not obvious. Nothing on the menu or boards mentions agua fresca. You have to ask. Almost hidden is a handwritten list of seven Mexican soups taped to the side of the cooler.

They assume you want the mild sauce which was bland and soupy with one piece of cilantro and two pieces of onion floating on top. I didn’t know about the hot salsa until a customer asked for it. The woman at the counter asked twice if she really wanted the hot sauce.

The problem seems to be that the food is fresh and made from scratch but it is the blandest Mexican food I ever had. If you want Mexican food and no spice, this is the place.

Not a hint of spice in the guacamole which was the color of pale iceberg lettuce. It was just pureed avocado. While the chips, like everything else, were fresh tasting, they were too greasy and chewy. Not totally unpleasant, but I could eat just one.

The chicken tamale had lots of nice pieces of chicken but it was served without corn husk and seemed like it was fried a little on the grill. The best items at this restaurant are the meats themselves which were tasty.

The horchata had pieces of rice at the bottom, but was watery and had no flavor. Ditto for the Jamaica. At least they wore not too sweet. There was Mexican coke and bottles of Jarritos. I’d stick with that. Not sure what the Mexican hot chocolate would taste like based on the food I tried. I’m thinking not full of flavor.

The large burritos seemed to be popular. They serve breakfast items that included chilaqueles and machaca. The restaurant caters.

It is a clean modern looking shop with some nice murals on the wall.

None of the customers on my visit were Latino. However it might just be the day, since every Mexican in the area seemed to be celebrating on 23rd Street.

I am suspecting that this restaurant caters to the people who don’t want to go to the more authentic joints I the area, I may give the soups a try due to the freshness of the ingredients and the tasty meats. If your taste runs toward places like Chipotle, IMO, this is a better choice. It certainly is better than Taco Bell, Taqueria Morena’s nearest ‘Mexican’ restaurant at the Apian Way Mall.

Taqueria Morena
2576 Appian Way
Pinole, California
[phone]

Hours
Monday – Saturday 11 am – 9 pm
Sunday 11 am – 8 pm

Link: http://dineview.com/search/show_menu....

[Raquel]

Every time I have been in this restaurant, it has been full of folks with Latin heritage.

I love Taqueria Morena -- most of my favorite Mexican places that I grew up with have closed but this one reminds me of my favorites.

Their chicken mole ROCKS! (my boyfriend and I begged her to put in on her menu full time) And I love there Chile Rellano (which is how I judge Mexican restaurants).

As to the tasteless remark -- not everyone wants to be downing habaneros! I prefer to taste my food, not have it singe the skin off my tongue.

Buy why Listen to me! Try it yourself!

It's hidden in a little strip mall on Appian way -- East of Fitzgerald (towards El Sob.)

Taqueria Morena
2576 Appian Way
Pinole, California
[phone]

Hours
Monday – Saturday 11 am – 9 pm
Sunday 11 am – 8 pm

[rworange]

Thanks for the recs. Gee, I was stretching to remember where this restaurant was. I kept meaning to go back as they have interesting signs in the window.

Have you tried the Chinese place in that same strip mall? Any recommendations?

[Larry]

I got take out from the Chinese place, totally unremarkable.

There's a banner announcing a new Indian place coming soon in the center.

[Solop]

Tried it a couple of weeks ago. We found it a bit uncomfortable, but only because we got there right after they opened for the evening, and we were the only people there.

The food was quite tasty -- not the best Indian food I've ever eaten, but in the top third. Some unusual ingredients: as an example, the dish I had (I believe it was "punjab lamb", but can't quite recall for sure) had, in addition to the spinach and lamb, candied cherries.

We'll definitely return.

[rworange]

I liked them too and agree with what you said about them being a little different. Hmmm, hope they get more customers. Maybe I should throw a little business their way. I liked the lamb nan a lot.
http://www.chowhound.com/topics/325485

Nice to have someone else in the Pinole area. I keep forgetting to check, but did Swish Wine Bar ever re-open?

Have you tried Thai Spice? I'm not so familiar with Thai food so I haven't tried it yet.
http://www.chowhound.com/topics/317124?

Do you like Bear Claw bakery? I tried one of their pumpkin pies this year and it was really wonderful.
http://www.chowhound.com/topics/345366

A few more updates since the OP
Happy Sashimi
http://www.chowhound.com/topics/325790
Eva's Meal Stop
http://www.chowhound.com/topics/306360

[Solop]

Not a clue about Swish. I'm actually fairly new to the area. Up until NotVeryLongAgo(tm) I was down in Richmond Annex, near the DMV. Moved up here (still in Richmond, actually -- Hilltop Green) just in time for the demise of Jumping Bean (tried it randomly and discovered that it was their last day) and Bobby's. Now I'm worried that this curse I seem to bring may affect new favorites like Tandoori Chicken USA and Sala Thai.

Which brings me, I guess, to your suggestions above. Haven't tried Thai Spice, but based on the review you linked, it's definitely on my list. We do like Thai in general; before we moved, we went to Sawooei fairly frequently (love the Special Duck); since the move we've been to Sala Thai a couple of times (all of the salmon dishes we've tried have been *excellent*) and Bankok Thai once (agree with another poster that the Po-Tak is superior).

Haven't been to the Bear Claw or Happy Sashimi yet -- we don't get north of Appian Way very often -- but they both sound worth the experiment.

Not sure I'll make it out to Eva's. Doesn't sound like my idea of a good breakfast. Might try it for lunch some time when I cut work (excuse me, telecommute).

Hey, is there anyplace in the area that does Vietnamese sandwiches? I liked the ones at the little place on San Pablo Ave just north of Central, but that's not real convenient since I moved. Wouldn't mind finding something closer.

[rworange]

Yeah, in the same area as Tandoori Chicken USA (love that chicken sandwich).

Champa Thai does Vietnamese & Thai. The Vietnamese sandwich isn't on the menu, but ask for them. They have the same source of rolls as the place on San Pablo which most people seem to think has the better sandwich, but the Champa sandwich is still pretty good.
http://www.chowhound.com/topics/321677

There are some decent places in that area ... El Sobrante ... The Cellar that big old liquor store next to Champa really has a suprisingly good selection of wine with a knowledgable staff ... it is not your liquor barn type of store.

That little mall with Champa and The Cellar also has one of the better breakfasts in the area ... Cafe Soleil ... yeah, Eva's is your cheapo breakfast, not a place to read the newspaper and linger over coffee. Tina's Creekside is pretty good too.
Here's more info on that area
http://www.chowhound.com/topics/37838

Don't know if I mentioned it in the BBQ topic, but in that same plaza is Jones BBQ which is ok, but I wasn't as BBQ savy when I first visited it. The new Filipino place in that mall has been getting trashed on the board.
http://www.chowhound.com/topics/331749

You gotta go over the Hill to downtown Pinole and maybe up towards Hercules. There's some good stuff in the area. For a not too expensive breakfast with a bit of ambiance, there's the Red Onion ... one of the better Red Onions ... there's a nice outdoor patio for nice weather. Hope you'll give Pear Street Bistro a try. One of my area favorites. This place could survive on Solano in Berkeley.

Don't worry about places closing down ... it is the nature of this area ... a lot of that happened to me when I first moved to the area ... I was calling it the curse of Krys and starting to take it personally.

Oh yeah, in the summer there's a decent farmers market in downtown Pinole. This time of year the closest is the market in El Cerrito near Trader Joe's which you probably know about.

Sorry to hear Jumping Bean closed. It was gringo Mexican, but losing a local frozen margarita source is a sad thing.

[Solop]

Acted on impulse and went to Happy Sashimi this evening. Just posted my review on that topic.

Discovered this summer that Tandoosa's chicken sandwich goes very well as ballpark fare. Much cheaper and much tastier than anything you can actually buy at the Coliseum.

Champa sounds very promising. Will add that to my list, preferably on a day when the music is there. The defunct Indian Pizza place was another one on my "missed it by that much, darn it" list.

I like the fried chicken at Jones BBQ, but the early reports on the BBQ were so uniformly negative that I haven't dared try it.

As for the Pear Street Bistro, we've been so traumatized by the TV commercials that we're having a hard time summoning the nerve to get any closer than driving past.

For a sit-down weekend breakfast, would you pick Cafe Soleil or Tina's? I've heard good things about both, but haven't had the chance to try either one.

[rworange]

Cafe Soleil ... it is nicer. Tina's is a little hippy veggie, but still good ... nice alternative. Just FYI if you keep driving on that road, away from the Berkeley direction ... it is a short cut to Orinda and Walnut Creek.

Hope you'll report back on breakfast wherever you choose.

[Larry]

I got take out from the Chinese place (Uncle Chung's), totally unremarkable.

There's a banner announcing a new Indian place coming soon in the center.

[Scrapironchef]

If you mean Uncle Chung's, I've tried it and was not impressed. Very mediocre westernized fare. Bland.

[Krys]

Bangkok Thai Cuisine, the first Thai restaurant in this area, made its appearance in 1996. It didn't dumb down it's menu for suburban tastes. That is probably why it is still solidly in busines.

Dishes can be ordered mild, medium, spicy or hot. The owners son said a little proudly that people always comment about the fact that this is one of the few restaurants when you want hot, you get hot. He said he took that as a compliment.

He told the story of a woman who came in and bragged to her freind that she always ate hot food and could take the heat. She wound up running to Safeway to buy two quarts of milk to cool down her burning mouth.

I like medium spice and it was right on target, enough to make my lips tingle but not too hot to mask the flavor of the food.

Bangkok Thai had the best green papaya salad of the three local Thai restaurants. The shredded papaya / carrrots had the ground peanuts mixed in the salad. It was served on pieces of chopped cabbage which worked well.

An old review from the West County Times said the owner was proud of the clay pot dishes. He should be.

The Po Tak was in a chili flecked hot and sour broth and filled with mussels, squid, white fish pieces and scallops. Intriging and inedible stick spices flavored the soup. The East Coast mussels were full of flavor. They came in the pretties shells with mother of pearl that were edged in green. Nice tender calamari rings, the dominant fish in the soup.

I heard "Mmmmmmm" from another table that ordered the Mon Tod, sweet potatoes with coconut batter and served with peanut sauce. Lots of discussion from that group about how good they were.

The two fried bananas were nice with a thin crispy batter. Coconut ice cream is from Mitchells.

I was really impressed with the son who waited the tables. He was really knowledgable about the food and loved to talk about it. He really was proud of the business and the quality of the food.

Decor is typical mom and pop Thai with lots of Thai knick knacks. Take out and delivery is available.

Bangkok Thai Cuisine
1569 Tara Hills Drive (off Appian Way in the Safeway mall)
Pinole, CA 94564 ( Map )
510-724-8106

Hours

Lunch: Monday - Friday 11 am - 3 pm
Dinner: Sunday - Thursday 5pm - 9:30 pm
Friday - Saturday 5pm - 10 pm

Link: http://chowhound.safeshopper.com/23/c...

[Elliott]

Its great that you can check out as many places as you do. I will have to try a few that you've mentioned.

There is one restaurant not mentioned on your posting....that's probably because they're relatively new (i think they opened in Feb. or March). Shinsen is a sushi joint in Hercules (by Taco Bell). Its not a typical japanese restaurant. I walked in and was pleasantly surprised. Staff were very friendly. Food was excellent... and not pricey, especially for the quality. The funny thing was I dined sushi and a chicken entree to the sounds of Bob Marley, then some jazz, then back to raggae. It was actually cool and relaxing. Next time you're there, check it out!

I think my next stop will be Giavanni's....

[Krys]

Thanks for the info about Shinsen. I noticed it when I was trying out the Filipino restaurants in Hercules. It looked really nice. It is right next door to the coffee shop, right?

I haven't tried the Japanese restuarants in the area yet since I don't know too much about that cuisine. Some of the Chowhound posts have scared me off in terms of how not to tick off the sushi chef.

I'll give it a try. Thanks for the suggestion.

[Solop]

Realized I haven't added anything to this thread in way too long.

Lesse...

Tried both Tina's and Soleil. Agree that Soleil is a bit nicer, but was quite happy with both. Now that Tina has moved and is no longer creekside, we're figuring we should go check out the new location.

Tried Four Corners Pizza and Pasta a few weeks ago. The food was excellent, but the experience was somewhat marred by the TV. Kind of a pet peeve of mine, I guess. If I wanted to eat in front of the TV, I'd stay home. (Note: I'm not talking about the TV in the "Party Room" in this case -- a TV there makes sense. Nor do I ever complain about TVs in bars. A large, wall-mounted flat-panel in the main diningroom, however, is a pain no matter how "friendly neighboorhood joint" the place is.)

Bamboo Chopstick did a stealth reopening over the summer. I tried their sandwiches and was reasonably happy. They'll be quite sufficient when I'm in the mood, but don't feel like trekking down to San Pablo. One day I'm going to have to get over there for a sitdown dinner and see how I like their non-sandwich food.

One favorite not in this thread (though I see RW and others have reviewed it elsewhere) is Cazuelas Grill in Hilltop Mall. We frequently go there on the weekend. My wife is addicted to the birria; if she doesn't get her "goat stewp" at least once a month, she starts getting snarly.

[rworange]

Hey, thanks for the update. I keep meaning to get over to Bamboo Chopstick. Didn't realize they had bahn mi.

Do you know if that new place opened yet in downtown Pinole across from Antlers ... whose prices for daily special have doubled from the signs in the window.

[Scrapironchef]

Went to Bamboo Chopstick last week, tasty and good service. Nice broth on the pho, the fried shrmp cake appetizer wascrunchy and hot with just the right amount of fresh tasting oil to make it a true indulgence. Service was friendly and efficient, table salad fresh and crunchy and we didn't feel suhed at all even tho we arrived late and stayed past closing. $22 for two phos and an apetizer.

All in all a wonderful place to have 5 minutes from home.

[Allfrog68]

Not in Pinole but just near by is the town of Rodeo. I work there at the Refinery. One of the favorites of many of the refinery workers is Won Thai. I work w/ people from all over the Bay Area and many agree this is the best Thai they can find. The owner is wonderful. We joke that he is a little bit like the Seinfeld Soup Nazi. If at lunch you show up and you have a big group but no reservation he will occassionally kick you out. You know why, because he knows you are going to return and you will harbor no bad feelings.
http://www.yelp.com/biz/won-thai-cuis...

I highly recommend checking the place out. It does a bunch of lunch business but I hear it's quieter during the evenings.

[coconut2]

I've tried a number of places in Pinole, and I like the Mushu chicken at Hunan Villa. Considering the options, I would choose takeout from there over most other places in town, and especially over anything at the mall. I don't enjoy the ambience (TVs), though, and I have to admit I was disappointed with the potstickers. They were too porky and not fresh enough to me.

I'm surprised to read such great things about the Bear Claw Bakery. In my memory, the coffee was terrible and the pastries unremarkable.

Sometimes when I didn't feel like cooking, I would get spaghetti from the Red Onion. They used to feature a great $5 special. And I used to get the BLTs there occasionally too.

I think the challenge in Pinole is how to avoid fast food, and not overpay for what else there is.

[rworange]

Thanks for the tips. Everything isn't great at Bear Claw but they do some things exceptionally well. They have one of the finest pumpkin pies in the Bay Area.

It will be interesting to see what is going into that new shopping center being built.

Sadly, Giovanni's recently closed.

So an update to the original post

Also, closed
Blackies
Swish wine bar
The Jumping Bean
Flying Cow

Moondoggies was sold to Sam's Hot Dogs.

Here's an updated list of a lot of what is currently available in Pinole
http://www.chow.com/search?search%5Bb...

[adrienne156]

Moved to Old Town Pinole this past week and since this post has been so helpful, I just wanted to stop by and report back a bit.

First off, after growing up in Lafayette, living in the El Cerrito area for some time and spending practically every weekend in the City, I had definitely developed a bit of a snooty attitude toward Pinole as being very, well, Norman Rockwell [RW, 2005]. You know what? It is. BUT, I am so enchanted. The city of Pinole is a quiet town with a very low crime rate, a warm community with summer movies in the park, and a very decent Saturday morning farmer's market with some really beautiful produce (definitely the best blueberries I've tasted) within 20 minutes of all the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area. Just a great little town. Who’da thunk it?

I've just started to work my way through the restaurants, so here is where I've been so far.

Happy Sashimi. RW hit the ambience right on the head in another post - maybe too hip for Pinole - although the rest of the plaza has definitely gotten a face lift with the introduction of TJ's, Peet's, and a new Mechanic's Bank. You walk into ultra modern decor with a long bar facing a few tv's and a freezer case stocked with Masse's-esque pastries (look-wise at least, haven't tried, heavily doubt taste would compare). A friend who has lived in Pinole for some time swears by their kids' bento box and I have to agree. For $7.95 you have your choice of two items (check out their website) of which I chose the salmon teriyaki and the hamachi sashimi, a small bowl of miso soup, salad, and rice. I asked for no rice (my nod toward being green) and even without, it was such a large amount of food that it made me wonder how big the regular bento box is. The salmon was a thin, yet good-sized filet with a light sweet glaze and although the tiniest bit on the dry side, I'd order it again. The hamachi was fresh and plump, no complaints. Amazing value, service not so good. www.eathappysashimi.com/

Pear Street Bistro. I have mixed feelings about this place. I enjoy their wine flights and they have such an interesting menu on paper, but there always seems to be some problem that leaves the meal slightly lacking in the end and me wondering why I didn't go somewhere in Berkeley or Oakland (well, the answer now is gas prices, but I digress). An overly dressed salad. Soggy onion rings. Under-salted food. Slow service. Bad acoustics. Regardless, this place is always packed, so obviously they're doing something right.

The Waffle Shop. Why did I eat here? Oh yeah, so that I could try it and have the knowledge never to return again. Bad diner food. Worse than the Denny's in El Cerrito (yes, that bad). Went there post-move morning needing grease and ordered the corned beef hash with two eggs over easy which comes with a side of potatoes and toast for $8.95. The eggs were done perfectly, but the hash and potatoes were both undercooked. I like my hash crispy and requested it as such, but it appeared barely griddled and reminded me of dog food. Tried covering it in hot sauce, but ended up just pushing it around my plate. Potatoes were sliced into discs and then griddled in some kind of spice mixture that tasted like it may have had cumin and oregano in it. Further, and I don’t mean to be a negative Nelly, but I hate eating at places where I end up leaving smelling like I have just cooked my (underwhelming) meal.

The Embers. Although I prefer bourgie-California style breakfasts a la Sunnyside and La Note (ooh, or even better, Montero’s “Mexican” breakfasts…), I enjoyed my breakfast at The Embers for what it is – old-school American food that reminded me of family road trips from when I was a kid. Their chef’s salad is iceberg lettuce, slice onions, canned beets, croutons, and green beans(?) drowned in your choice of four homemade dressings (ranch, blue cheese, Italian, and thousand island) if this helps anyone visualize. On the first visit, I ordered the barbequed turkey and what appeared was a plate of sliced turkey with a thin, savory brownish “BBQ” sauce that I was completely unfamiliar with. I like smoked meat with a visible ring and a tomato-y or vinegary sauce and this wasn’t that. I’ve heard their ribs are quite good. On a subsequent visit I received well-cooked eggs, crispy hash browns, and the waitress called me “cookie” which is a nickname my god grandmother called me and instantly won her brownie points. Would be great after a night at Antlers.

Tina’s. Technically in El Sob. I heart her salads so much that it’s ok that I leave smelling like the café. Nice, fresh ingredients. ..However, not cheap from what I recall. I miss Tandoori Chicken USA. sigh.

Red Onion. I like their french fries, but the burgers at Big Al’s will always have my heart for this type of institution.

To try: the Thai place across from TJ’s, Haweli Indian, TJ’s itself, Hunan Villa, and I’m going to try Bear Claw Bakery out on my office next week.

The posts about Pinole are a bit dated, anything I’m missing?

[rworange]

Hey, another warm body in the area reporting about PInole ... yeah!!! Welcome.

Probably best to go through Places for a little more current stuff.
http://www.chow.com/search?search%5Bquery%5D=Pinole&search%5Bboardgroup_id%5D=1&search%5Bclass_names%5D=Restaurant&search%5Bquery%5D=&search%5Bboard_id%5D=1&x=24&y=12

First of all ... Bear Claw ... donuts ... donuts, donuts, donuts. You will be amazed if you get one with maple frosting on it because ... it tastes like maple. Come Thanksgiving ... if that isn't the best pumpkin pie in the bay area, I'll refund your money ... but you have to give me the leftovers. Haven't tried their other pies.

This is a tangent, but it is near enough to you ... give Martinez a look see. There is a bakery there ... Le Gateau Elegant ... that has not only the best princess cake in the bay area ... but the best I've had in my life. Other interesting stuff I want to check out down that way.

Give Alley Cafe a try alonge the Embers line but the best in the area in that style.

If you ever get a burger at the embers tell them you want it char-broiled and not grilled. In that same plaza is New Deli which has some nice fresh soups. Next to Hunan Villa is Tachikawa Japanese Restaurant. I'm not so knowledgable about Japanese, so I never was there. However, over the years I've seen some positive comments. Just for chuckles ... drop by that liquor store across from The Embers and take a look at the back case. You are welcome to contact me off-line, but it is an indication that despite appearance ... Norman Rockwell has left the town of Pinole.

Pear Street has lost heart over the years. I wonder how that has impaced Hunan Villa which is also owned by Gary Wong. I still like the gorgonzola and pear pizza at Pear Street and still stop by occasionally for it ... though even that isn't as good as years ago. Too bad his Swish Wine Bar closed. That was a really fun place. The reason Pear Street is still popular is that it is the only thing even remotely Berkelyish in the area.

Was that the Red Onion in El Sobrante or Pinole? The new owner at the El Sobrante Red Onion is pretty cool ... but a Red Onion is a Red Onion.

I have yet to try Taqueria Sanchez which is near Bear Claw and next to the park. Maybe you can scope that one out. It looked kind of Americanized but that is unfair as I've never even stepped foot in the joint.

Captain's Cottage ... ok ... don't know. The daughter-in-law has gotten involved and supposedly the food has been upgraded ... a lot of it was stuff you'd buy in the Costco frozen appetizer case. YET, they always had excellent tea. While it isn't at the top of my to try list, I do plan to revisit it with the changes. It has it's entertainment value but you have to buy into girly-stuff in a major way.

Hercules has the best Filipino (and a decent Saturday night farmers market in the summer) but the new LMH Fil-Fusion (near Pear Street) has some good stuff ... just skip the garlic ric. There's a nice Lucky's in Hercules. If you have Hercules questions, I'll be happy to answer in a separate post dedicated to that. Nice little park there.

I've never really liked Pinole Creek Cafe. If you want to feel like you stepped back into a 50's country club ... this is the place. It is pretty enough, but I was just underwhelmed by my one visit there. They always have holiday dinners ... mother's day, thanksgiving, St Patrick's Day ... so I might try that .. once

Antlers ... well ... they raised the prices on dinners. Antlers is worthwhile just to scope out for a beer or something.

Valley Produce on the corner of Appian and San Pablo has a great Mexican meat market doing some excellent sausages. They are a step up from any other Mexican market in the entire bay area ... the tamales, though ... meh.

That new Chinese restaurant ... China House ... is ok for nothing-special but well-done basic Chinese food. I think if I knew more about Chinese and kept my eyes open, there might be something there.

Rodeo has its charms. For a real honky tonk, there's the Waterfront, that's pleasant in the summer to sit on the rickety deck and watch the sun set on Carquinez Straight while the refinery fades into the dark and the refinery lights and stars in the sky meet. Probably best to just nurse a beer while watching the wildlife ... outdoot wildlife like egrets. Watch out for the peacocks that roam around the front door.

Do keep in mind I have a high dive tolerance and am fond of the entertainment value of joints like this

Nearby is Ricky's which looks like a dive bar but has good fried chicken and a great deal during the week. It is really a trip inside ... surprisingly an eccentric, family type of joint. Stick to the chicken.

People's Market across from Safeway has some Portuguese stuff and a nice premium tequila case which is best around Christmas. The owner visits Mexico and brings back some interesting stuff.

I have yet to try El Sol, but they have a yearly special Cinco de Mayo buffet and I think they make their own torltillas.

Crockett's big claim to fame is the Sunday night jazz program at Valona. It is really pleasant ... a cool informal jam.

Club Tac, the definition of dive bar, serves food one day a week ... Monday from 4 - 9. I have yet to try it but I read good things about it.
http://www.crockettca-chamber.org/clubtac/index.php

There's a small Sunday farmers market in Crockett which, IMO, is only worthwhile if you live in town.

The Nantucket is an ok seafood restaurant which more of a sit on the strait and look at the boats type of place.

Now trust me on this one ... Dead Fish for weekend brunch... no really .. the sister of the Stinking Rose.

It has a great view .and wonderful outdoor patios ... the big upper patio and the smaller lower patio . .. if that isn't enough to damn it ... as in the good view=bad food rule.

BUT brunch comes with hot from the oven Acme bread ...they have always done a good job with the Acme.

You want to keep it simple here. Don't try anything fancy. The milk-poached eggs didn't have the staff to handle them properly. But I've had good omelets in the past. Though looking at the menu, the current omelets look ambitious for Dead Fish. I'd ask them for something like plain cheese and mushrooms. Haven't tried the pancakes yet. My recent brunch report is linked here
http://www.chow.com/places/30793

At one time they had nice sandwiches ... but it has been years. Very cozy bar and nice bartenders. Weekend nights get crazy though. I like it better off hours.

They do a few things well ... mussels and I hear prime rib. The rest of the fish ... not so much. The chef in charge of this restaurant has ambitions and good concepts but he doesn't have the line cooks to translate that successfully. So plain and basic is best. An example is that I see rabbit is on the current menu. Nice idea that I'd be surprised they could execute well. Holy Crockett ... rabbit ... I don't see that being popular with the local beef and potato crowd.

There's a suprisingly good Mexican Restaurant in the Hilltop Mall, Cazuela's Grill.It is probably the best Mexican in this area.
http://www.chow.com/places/27211

If you get desperate for a good breakfast, not quite as far as Berkeley, is Point Richmond that you can get to fairly quickly by going down San Pablo and hanging a right at Walgreen's and the plaza that has A & W and following that to the end Another Normen Rockwell town that has the excellent Hidden City Cafe (though check to see if it is closed for renovations). There's a nice new British restaurant there also.

The Pinole area doesn't change much. Pear Street it the one that changed ... for the worse. Restaurants go out of business. However, pretty much the old reports are probably accurate. The big thing in the area was that new plaza with Trader Joe's.

-----
Happy Sashimi
2718 Pinole Valley Rd, Pinole, CA 94564

Tina's Place
2300 San Pablo Ave, Pinole, CA 94564

The Embers
600 San Pablo Avenue, Pinole, CA

Original Red Onion
2870 Pinole Valley Rd, Pinole, CA 94564

Pear Street Bistro
2395 San Pablo Ave, Pinole, CA

Ole's Waffle Shop
1507 Park St, Alameda, CA 94501

[kc72]

I think Hunan Villa may have been sold to a member of the staff awhile back

[Solop]

Hi, Adrienne. Welcome to the area.

I keep meaning to try Tachikawa, but it seems like most days when I'm in the mood for Japanese, I'm too lazy to go up there, and wind up at Tokyo, which is on the circle road around Hilltop Mall. They're decent, but generally uninspiring -- and they don't, as far as I can tell, have Japanese-style curry. There are days in the fall when I'd kill for a nice plate of katsu curry.

[chocolatetartguy]

I too found your encyclopedic post helpful when my mother moved to Pinole 6 months ago.

I visit her for dinner once a week and mostly we go to China House since she craves Chinese food.

There are a few things that China House does very well. They have a very good version of duck yee foo and hung tao yee won ton. The fried wontons hold their shape and the broth is thick and flavorful. Their version is at least as good as Lee Hou or that place near Central and San Pablo in El Cerrito. My Jackson Cafe won- ton-loving uncle agrees. I have not been very impressed by their "dinner" dishes, but did enjoy gnawing the bones of a tea smoked duck.

I confess my favorite Pinole restaurant is Home Town Buffet. I am wild for their fried chicken, which is so crispy that you can pry off the carapace of breaded skin whole off the thighs and voila: a chicken skin chip. The chicken itself is usually somewhat moist, but I am all about the breading. I believe the unusual crunchiness is due to the fact that they don't appear to pull off the gobs of chicken fat before frying.

I'm also fond of the corn bread (cakey with some grit), the weird casseroles (pasta, ham and peas in a cream sauce), black-eye peas, chicken and dumplings (more of the latter than the former) and oh, somedays they have massive beef ribs. To top off my considerable meal I have an "affogato" made from vanilla soft serve and black coffee.

I have seen reports on other sites making fun of the people at HTB. All I can say is that everyone is very polite and seem to be having a great time.

Other than that I'd rather drive back to Berkeley to eat.

[kc72]

the place nr Central and San Pablo is also a branch of China House (formerly Golden Dynasty).

The place on the corner of MacDonald Ave. and San Pablo Ave. does a pretty good hung tao yee won ton, but that's the only thing I've really liked there. They also do a black bean w/ chili pepper beef stew chow fun which is ok,

[chocolatetartguy]

Yes that's the place. China House in Pinole does a better job on the yee foo won ton than EC and yes MW it is worth the trip to try. We like the chow mein too. My mother likes shrimp chow mein with crispy noodles. On our last visit I tried the cha sieu chow mein and it was chock full of sweet slivers of bbq pork and nicely done, not too greasy, noodles. I have tried a few of their regular dishes but none stick in my mind either as good or as bad.

Red Onion is fine for a burger and fries and I wonder about their breakfasts, but never get up on time. My visiting sister and her husband celebrated their anniversary with mom at Pinole Creek Cafe. They seemed to like its take on classic American food.

I have been meaning to try the Foster Freeze up San Pablo for grilled pastrami sandwiches and Hunan Villa on the lukewarm recommendation of a Chinese friend.

[rworange]

Just a note that the Foster Freeze pastrami is in its own little category and not what many would consider pastrami ... like it has hot dog relish on it ... and gave me the same thrill as a McRIb ... I think it may have been all those pickles.
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/553929

[rworange]

Thanks for the tip about China House. I suspected from my report linked on the place record that they might be doing some things right as there were a number of Chinese customers. I need to get back there.

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China House Restaurant
1971 San Pablo Ave, Pinole, CA 94564

[adrienne156]

Had a meal there a couple of months back and although I don't remember exactly what we ordered, but I remember it as being pretty good Americanized Chinese food. They were a bit heavy with the cornstarch in one of the dishes, but we walked in about 10 minutes before closing and they still served us. Exceptionally nice people.

[Solop]

Don't let anyone push you around or make fun of you for going to HTB. I'll admit to going there myself on occasion. I'm more impressed with the desserts than the main dishes, but I do have a lingering fondness for the spinach marie.

[rworange]

Han, a pretty serious chowhound, likes the Home Town Buffet in Haward, I think. I forget what it is, but they have something a little different there. HTB does what it does well. In fact the year I had a Thanksgiving Buffet at Cliff House, I was thinking I would have been much better off at HTB.

HTB now offers take out - $3.99 for soup and salad only. Lunch buffet to go is $5.99, Dinner $7.99. If you sign up for their mailing list there is a coupon for $4.99 Lunch and $5.99 dinner. The meal must fit in a single container. considering what you would pay at McDonald's for a salad with no options, the salad deal seems like a good thing.

-----
Hometown Buffet
1570 Fitzgerald Dr, Pinole, CA 94564

[wolfe]

HTB sounds like a find. I won't be able to go until I take one of my no freeway approaches to the Carquinez Bridge. Hopefully, Solop, it will still be there.

[rworange]

It is in the shopping plaza on Appian way near Kmart.

[adrienne156]

First off, I get that Pinole is not the type of place to expect Berkeley and City-type food and this is totally fine. That’s what cars are for. :o) Second, thanks guys for the welcome! My new place is absolutely fantastic and I couldn’t be happier. I’m smack dab in the middle of Old Town Pinole and see a lot of the places you’ve mentioned on a daily basis as I come and go.

Pinole Creek Café – Read the article in the Chronicle not long ago, but whenever I peek in, they seem to be empty. I hate to say it, but although the decor seems quite nice I’d rather drive for food in this price range so that I could have some scenery with my meal.

Burgers – The Red Onion I was referring to is the one on Pinole Valley Road. I really like the service there, sweet high school kids. GREAT tip about the hamburger at Embers and now I am dying to find out what’s in the back of that liquor store.

Speaking of liquor, I’ve been to Antlers many a times and also have a fairly high dive tolerance. It’s the Pinole equivalent of the Mallard in EC, or as I like to call, “The Yearbook.” Great bartenders, cheap strong drinks. I can’t imagine eating there although people do. Who cooks? Mississippi (bartender)?

Mexican – Have tried Cazuela’s Grill and remember liking their carne asada platter. I will definitely check out Valley Produce, but has anyone been to the little market at the end of Barrett right before the Richmond BART underpass? Cannot remember the name for the life of me… It’s on the right-hand side if you are facing West. EXCELLENT house-marinated steak ranchera.

Le Gateau Elegant – Funny you should mention. A friend’s family lives in Martinez and we bought the princess cake for her bridal shower. We fought over the leftovers.

Dead Fish – Ok, I have heard good things about the place and seen many of their commercials, but I am going to take your word on this one RW because I cannot stand the Stinking Rose. Didn't know they were affiliated.

Second the Point Richmond recommendations to all other who may read this. The company I work for has an office there and I always end up having a nice lunch while out that way. :o)

AND finally, will do more research on Hercules because I am amazed how close it is and I'm especially excited about the Filipino food as I've never had it.

Thanks to all of you again!!

[rworange]

If Antlers is ok with you, you might enjoy the Waterfront ... which is basically Antlers with a menu and outdoor seating on Richardson Bay. Have you ever been to that other dive bar that has the little train engine in front (which on some weekends has BBQ)

Well, I feel a little better about La Gateau Elegant
http://www.chowhound.com/topics/505504

If you decide to go for Filipino food, start with Marylou's Homemade Delights. It is the best of them all and the Filipino breakfast with the garlic rice is very nice. On the weekends they have baked goods. If you see bilbinka that is very good. Go with what looks fresh in any of the Filipino places. Some Filipino food is an aquired taste but a lot is delicious ... especially baked goods.

That market you mention, is there a restaurant next to it? Is it Joya de Ceren?
http://www.chow.com/places/25155

If it is, Omar makes some nice sausages. He buys a whole pig every week and has a butcher come in to cut it up. He also gets some bargains occasionally. He had some Rocky Jr. chickens for $1.29 lb. Check out the coffee shop across the street, Catahoula.

Not to get too anti-climatic about G & L Liquor which I see I've mentioned above. It is the K & L of the Arbor Mist and and Boone's Farm crowd. I have never seen so many different flavors and colors ... it is a kalidascope of brightly colored 'wines'. Which means the area has a large clientel for that sort of beverage. I don't think old Normen Rockwell, would be swilling the stuff ... would make an amusing painting though.

[kc72]

RW - adrienne156 mentioned a market on Barrett nr Richmond BART, not San Pablo Ave.

[wolfe]

Richardson Bay is the body of water between Sausilito and Belvedere/Tiburon. Do you mean San Pablo Bay?

[adrienne156]

Ahh. Boone's. Getting high school students drunk for decades.

The other dive bar with the train? The only other one I've stepped foot in/near Old Town Pinole was the Green Lantern. Not my cup of tea.

About the cake... I've had so many bad princess cakes (thank you, Miette, for making such a stinking pretty one) that I actually groaned when [friend] said that's what she wanted. I had to HUNT for that darn cake and comparatively, I found LGE's really moist and not overly cloying. What usually bugs me is the dry with the sweet. Melanie is hilarious with that description though. I've never thought to describe baked goods as being trampy.

[rworange]

Hmmm ... once there was the new Places section of Chowound (aka "restaurants & bars"), I thought this topic would not be needed. However since people seem to be still reading it ... here's the latest and greatest in Pinole ...VIETNAMESE !!!

BT Sandwich Deli !!! Squeezed-to-order lemonade and BANH MI in PINOLE !!!
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/572535#

Slightly pricier than most banh mi, but larger and less expensive than the other sandwiches in town. There is a very nice family running it. Hope Pinoleans will keep it in business.