FOOD AND DRINK | The Bloom

Like Cooking for Family: Pine Dell Grocery & Deli

Trudy WakefieldSeptember 18, 20260441 views

It’s a bright September afternoon when fall colors begin to tempt the season’s change, shadows grow long, and the sun’s glow turns golden. It’s the annual pause of nature appreciating the abundance of all the life she has birthed through the season before she drifts off into winter slumber. And as she exhales in admiration, so too do I as I make my way along the shores of Clear Lake on Lakeshore Drive, heading out on the peninsula. My destination isn’t far; about halfway out on the peninsula shoreline is the newly reopened Pine Dell Grocery & Deli.

Five Lake County Diners for When Comfort Food Calls

Trudy WakefieldAugust 28, 202601.1K views

Sometimes, nothing satisfies like a classic diner meal. Picture yourself savoring fluffy pancakes, crispy country-style potatoes, or a decadent plate of Eggs Benedict, all while sipping on endless cups of percolated coffee. In Lake County, there are five standout diners that promise to deliver that comfort experience.

My Secret Weapon: Delicias Alvarez in Clearlake

Trudy WakefieldAugust 14, 20260719 views

It was a bittersweet day when I first discovered Delicias Alvarez in Clearlake, learning mid-bite of some wonderful seafood that the restaurant would temporarily close. But now, it has reopened, and I’m thrilled to return! On a scorching summer day, I crave something refreshing, and their aguachile mango con habañero hits the spot.

Tie Up and Dig In: Lake County’s Best Waterfront Eats

Trudy WakefieldJuly 10, 202601.1K views

One of my fondest summer memories is boating on Puget Sound in Washington State. At least once every summer, we’d all pile into Grandpa’s boat and drive across the bay for ice cream. And it’s not that the frozen ice cream treats were anything you couldn’t find at a local gas station; it’s the fact that you got to the store by boat, which makes anything you eat taste that much more special. In Lake County, we can get a whole lot more than just ice cream by boat!

Fresh From the Source: Hog Island Oysters on Tomales Bay

Trudy WakefieldJune 5, 202601.3K views

Ok, I’ll admit it, I’m a little behind when it comes to loving shellfish, or seafood in general. But you would be, too, if you were raised Seventh-day Adventist. I was taught that all shellfish are unclean and, if you eat them, you are essentially poisoning your body, and worse. So, to make a long story short, I am a late bloomer when it comes to enjoying seafood. But when I did, it took me no time at all to fall in love with lobster, a little more time with crab, scallops, and clams. Even more recently, like five decades into my life, I am falling in love with raw oysters.

The Best Damn Cappuccino on Highway 1: Route One Bakery & Kitchen

Trudy WakefieldMay 29, 202601.2K views

Have you ever driven two hours just for a cup of coffee because it’s worth the drive? I have. It was about that time in January when cozy winter days begin to lose their luster, and one gets the itch for adventure. Why not drive for my morning cup of coffee? I did, and I got the best damn cappuccino I have yet tasted. It tasted so good that I treated myself to a second. But that was in January, and now spring has sprung, road trips resume, and that stop for coffee is all in a day’s adventure when I roll into the town of Tomales on Highway 1.

You Have to Have the Harp: A Mother’s Day Tea at Woodland Community College

Trudy WakefieldMay 15, 202601.3K views

Now, I have been to a tea party a time or two in my life. I have had some in my own home when my kids were young, for small celebrations and sometimes just for fun. I have enjoyed high tea at the impressive Empress Hotel in Victoria, B.C., which sets the standards for everything a high tea should be. I’ve had afternoon tea in Western Washington, Sonora, CA, and a Mother’s Day tea in Lakeport. And every tea experience has been unique and set apart, except, of course, for the cucumber sandwiches. But one thing always remains the same: for that dining experience, there is a return to innocence on some level, and the world is set right again with the first sip of hot tea, with one or two lumps of sugar.

Where Locals Gather: The Heartwarming Charm of The Old Mill Restaurant

Trudy WakefieldMay 8, 202601.5K views

It’s a Sunday afternoon when the spring air is filled with perfume, and blossoms are carried by the wind–a delight. It’s the perfect day to drive with the windows down and to fully immerse yourself in spring wonder. Whether you’re coming or going from a hike at Anderson Marsh, gliding through the peaceful waters of Cache Creek in the morning on a kayak, wine tasting at scenic Wild Diamond Vineyard, or experiencing the quiet escape of Six Sigma Ranch and Winery, it’s always a good idea to begin or end one’s day at the Old Mill Restaurant on Main Street in Lower Lake.

Their Greatest Ingredient Is Heart: Gaytan’s Family Market & Taquería

Trudy WakefieldApril 17, 20260958 views

Sometimes it just happens; you find magic when you aren’t looking for it. And isn’t it fun when it’s food? “Our beans are vegetarian, but you would never know,” says Janet of Gaytan’s Family Market & Taquería. My eyes raise in a smile while I Mmmmm in delight. Rich, creamy, smooth in texture… Suddenly, I can’t stop eating them. “I told you you would never know they are vegetarian,” Janet smiles.

No Road Trip Required: Comfort Food at Trejo’s Diner

Trudy WakefieldMarch 20, 202602.1K views

I recently read that the Denny’s restaurant chain is closing 150 locations. Of course, that got me thinking not only about the classic diner chain but all the others like it, such as Shari’s, IHOP, and Black Bear Diner, that my parents were so loyal to when we were on road trips in my childhood. There is a comfort in chain restaurants; in general, you know exactly what you are going to get. I haven’t patronized any of those chains in decades, and it’s really no great loss in my mind other than the memories, because Lake County offers its fair share of quality diner experiences. Can I get an amen?

A Pleasant Surprise at Harlow’s Lounge in Lakeport

Trudy WakefieldJanuary 23, 202602.1K views

Isn’t it wonderful to be surprised! I’ve driven by Harlow’s Lounge time and time again, meaning to stop by and check it out, until I finally did. And boy, am I glad I made the stop.

Comfort Food and Country Charm at Judy’s Junction

Trudy WakefieldJanuary 9, 202602K views

It’s a blustery, rainy day. Winter storms stack themselves up so tightly together that I can’t tell what’s coming and going as the wind whips around my car and splatters sheets of rain on my windshield. But it’s worth the trip as the thought of holiday leftovers loses its luster in comparison to the treat of a meal out. I drive cautiously despite the growl in my stomach, knowing hot coffee and friendly faces will greet me upon my safe arrival at Judy’s Junction.

No Dishes, All Joy: Your Holiday Dining Guide

Trudy WakefieldNovember 21, 20250355 views

For me, eating out with friends and family is one of my fondest memories because it almost always accompanies Christmas shopping, a holiday concert, a festive parade, or driving to see a holiday light display! And the best part? No dishes for one meal, all the while patting yourself on the back for supporting a local business. Does it really get better than that?

It All Starts With Wine: A Lake County Holiday Guide

Trudy WakefieldNovember 14, 20250308 views

One thing I tell my kids year after year is that, at some point in their lives, they will look back on the weeks and days leading up to the holidays as some of their fondest memories of the season, even more so than the big days. I think the older I get, the more I agree with myself. It’s the last-minute dinner with friends, gift shopping in the rain, long drives in search of holiday lights. In the spirit of that, I’ve come up with a foolproof holiday cheer for you this holiday season, and it all starts with wine.

Seasons Change, the Vibe Stays: Happy Hour at Ali’s Kitchen

Trudy WakefieldOctober 17, 20250335 views

Library Park in Lakeport has moods–you can catch it on a Friday night in July, and it’s full of happy people resting on lawn chairs and blankets, listening to live music coming from the gazebo. If you stop by on a blustery February morning, you can watch the waves slap on the bulkhead and rock the docks while Mt. Konocti plays peek-a-boo between the rainclouds. Or, if you have the opportunity to stop by on a fall afternoon, you can feel the crispness in the air and see the leaves slowly turn yellow and orange while a stillness settles in. Perhaps a few children play on the swings while a retired couple passes by, walking their dog. There’s a quiet in the air, but no sense of rush–it still will be a while before the cold winter arrives. On days like these, it’s a perfect opportunity to step aside from the everyday grind, get out, and savor the park. And if you have the chance, why not spend some time enjoying the view from the roof of Ali’s Kitchen?

Coffee Cake to Impress

Trudy WakefieldSeptember 17, 20250449 views

Nothing says comfort food more than what comes out of the oven, right? One of our family’s favorite breakfasts starts with a Betty Crocker-inspired Sour Cream Coffee Cake. With the help of a bundt pan and a little glaze, it becomes nothing short of decadence not only to the eye but, most importantly the tastebuds.

Happy Hour at the Greenview Bar & Grill

Trudy WakefieldSeptember 5, 20250384 views

What is it about happy hour that makes us so happy? Is it that we slipped away from our weekday routine earlier than usual for a treat? Or is it just a more fun way to start the evening with a special someone, family, or friends? Either way, happy hour is a bit like that feeling I get when at the receiving end of a fast-food drive-through. I’m getting a present with all the unwrapping to make it official. It’s not that I’m getting something unexpected; it just always feels like a treat. Like that, happy hour is a gift that lets us rediscover our favorite hangout spots in a whole new way.

Wednesday Tacos with a View

Trudy WakefieldAugust 15, 20250313 views

“Are you going to write about this?” my previous husband asks me. No, truly, my friend.

“I don’t know. Can I write about this?” It’s an honest and fair question to ask the once-upon-a-time editor of The Bloom. He knows what my readers like as well as I do.

More than a Restaurant: Lucerne Euro Market and Bistro

The Bloom Curation StaffAugust 1, 20250668 views

Located in Lucerne, Lucerne Euro Market and Bistro is easy to miss as you drive down the highway, watching the water glint off the waters of Clear Lake. But if you look to the left, you’ll see it easily. A tall, peaked building rests behind wrought iron fencing, welcoming you in. And once you step inside, you won’t forget it.

Tandoori to Tikka: Tasting My Way Through Lakshmi Cuisine of India

The Bloom Curation StaffJuly 18, 202501.3K views

Have you ever felt curious to try a new type of food, only to be overwhelmed by the menu? I had that experience the first time I tried Indian cuisine. But fear not! At Lakshmi Cuisine of India in downtown Lakeport, you can dive into the exotic flavors without the stress of ordering. From crispy Vegetable Samosas to rich Chicken Tikka Masala, this guide will help you navigate the menu with confidence. Discover how to enjoy a delightful array of dishes, perfect for sharing or savoring as leftovers. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure?

Five Great Places for Burgers on Your 4th of July Weekend

Trudy WakefieldJuly 4, 202501K views

Now I’m trying to think what is more American than a burger. The first thing that came to mind is apple pie, of course. And I gotta say, there isn’t anything much better than a slice of apple pie and a dollop of ice cream. However, I haven’t had the joy and adventure of finding some of the finest apple pies served in Lake County. But I have had the pleasure of eating some mighty fine burgers! And with all the running around you’ll be doing this holiday weekend, there’s a good chance you might want to grab a bite to eat while you are out and about or entertaining friends and family.

The Imperfect Italian Bakery Review

Trudy WakefieldJune 20, 202501.1K views

There comes a time when your review is everything you hoped it would be, but the bakery is always sold out of bread every time you visit. Well, that makes for an imperfect review of Ferrigno’s Italian Baked Goods. Oh, I had many tastes of homemade goodness . . .

The Perfect Pairing: Beer and Wine at Stein and Wein

The Bloom Curation StaffMarch 28, 202501.1K views

The day feels warm, too warm for early March. That makes it the perfect day to spend exploring something new or just savoring the beauty of springtime. And if your…

Coastal Bliss: Exploring Duncans Mills and the Treasures of Highway 1

Trudy WakefieldMarch 21, 20250597 views

When the stars align and the universe nods in agreement with our wishes, sometimes the sunshine reminds us of its will–to burn away the clouds and winter chill. It’s here to restore, refresh and stretch its rays far and wide for all to marvel in its splendor. The earth’s curve is best seen on the open shoreline. Perfection is only added when the occasional rock breaks the flow of waves and changing current. Sometimes playful splashes against the rock edges catch our eye. Other times a gentle rocking motion of the sea as if dancing with its partner, showing all her skill that draws us in. It’s mesmerizing, her motion, like nature’s television–only the show never gets old or boring. Is there really a season to not enjoy a trip to the ocean when the weather is fair? I think not. When the stars align and there isn’t enough time to pack the perfect picnic to catch mother nature’s glory, never fear. A quick stop and you will have all the essentials for your day on the beach at Duncans Mills.

Seasons of Serenity: Discovering Year-Round Magic at Casini Ranch

Trudy WakefieldFebruary 28, 202501.1K views

The days light stretches out just a little longer than a few weeks before. Winter’s chill remains early in the morning and dusk despite the alluring mid-day high temperature. Every few days, a newly arrived bird’s song reminds us of nature’s return in preparation for Spring and the birth of new life. It might also be that time of year when the four walls in your home feel a bit cramped and there’s an undeniable itch to see something new; anything will do when spring picnics and a dip in the lake seems dreadfully too far away.