In Lakes and Larders part 1, we wrote about a special wine country lake you probably have never heard of, and most likely have never been to. Seems like there’s all kinds of new spaces and places showing their face these days; perfect for your next Food Party!, inside or out.
Lake Loch Lomond
Secret lake #2 is hiding away in the Santa Cruz mountain town of Felton. I haven’t met anyone who has been there or even heard of it, making Lake Loch Lomond a perfect weekend escape.
With lots of room to hike, boat, fish, and picnic – the park is pet friendly with a small harbor that rents paddle and power boats, and a store that sells snacks and tackle. Too bad no swimming is allowed at Lake Lomond, but the lake trail offers a relatively flat, tree-filled hike, with easy-to-access docks offering broad views, and a unique place to picnic and muse on how lucky you are to be there, while everyone else fights for a parking spot at the beach just down the hill. Put Loch Lomond on your Bay Area Surprise List for next year (the season runs March - September), Surrounded by Santa Cruz wineries and the cute town of Boulder Creek, plan a day exploring the area and play tourist in your own back yard.
Showplace Icon Mountain View
Our featured larder is quite the escape as well. I’m no movie girl (hadn’t visited a movie theatre in two years), but this place was worth the wait. Movie theatre + restaurant + bar and the ability to enjoy your drink IN A REAL GLASS, while you watch. Why hasn’t anyone offered this till now?
Recently opened at the Village at San Antonio, I’m talking a 21-and over, big screen experience (after 7 PM) with seats that recline (ooh), heat (aahhh), mold around your body (mmm), and take you away to another world. Stretch out with tons of legroom and celebrate that you didn’t have to cut dinner short just to make it to the movie on time. The menu far surpasses your average theatre faire with dishes that, gosh darnit, even highlight fresh vegetables!
We especially liked
ShowPlace Salmon - Blackened salmon filet, ponzu glaze, vegetable medley, sticky rice ($18.75)
Black N Bleu Salad - Blackened salmon, romaine blend, grape tomatoes, red onion, croutons, crumbled bleu cheese, parmesan ranch ($17.75)
Ahi Tuna - Seared ahi, guacamole, tomato, green onion, wonton, ponzu, Santa Fe cream ($15.75)
But you can always just get a pizza “to go,” or grab a bag of Bacon Popcorn, and head to your seats.
Let the show begin!
Lake Loch Lomond Recreation Area
100 Loch Lomond Way
Felton
ShowPlace ICON Mountain View
2575 California Street
Mountain View
