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Davisite Banner. Left side the bicycle obelisk at 3rd and University. Right side the trellis at the entrance to the Arboretum.

Category: Food and Drink

  • Farmers market plans extended Pre-Thanksgiving event

    BrusselsStalk

    Brussels sprouts on the stalk are a popular item at the Davis Farmers Market's annual Pre-Thanksgiving Market, set for Nov. 22. (Wendy Weitzel/Courtesy photo)

    (From press release) The day before Thanksgiving, the Davis Farmers Market extends its hours. This year’s annual Pre-Thanksgiving Market will be from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Central Park, 301 C St., Davis.

    On Wednesday, Nov. 22, the market will have a bounty of seasonal produce, flowers and table décor, olive oil, nuts, honey and wine from two wineries. Several bakeries will have fresh-baked items like pumpkin, apple, pecan and berry pies and pumpkin cheesecake; breads, rolls, stuffing mix and cookies. There will be dips and Kettle Corn too.

    The rest of the season, visit the market from 3 to 6 p.m. on Wednesdays, and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays. It will be closed on Wednesday, Dec.  27. For more information, visit https://davisfarmersmarket.org or visit it on Facebook or Instagram.

  • G Street Reimagined

    G Street Reimagined-1

    (Click to see larger version)

    By Architect Marcus Marino of Design M Group

    On October 4th, the engineering firm hired by City planning staff presented their options for G Street to the community for comments. The Davis Enterprise newspaper wrote an article on this but neglected to mention the alternative plan prepared and presented by the Davis architectural firm, Design M Group. The firm’s architect, Marcus Marino, explained the major differences between his proposal and the City planning staff’s proposals.

    The City of Davis has reduced G Street to a 20-foot wide pedestrian/emergency vehicle area in the center of the street. City Planning’s proposal is to keep the sidewalks for pedestrians as well. Design M Group proposes a different plan: pedestrians use the center width of the street while using the existing sidewalks and sides of the street for restaurant seating, store display areas, or parklets with kiosks. This plan could enliven the pedestrian area, allowing a more cohesive atmosphere for the extension of the restaurants and potentially increasing revenue for the City of Davis.

    Design M Group proposes making G Street level from the pedestrian area to the sidewalks by milling the street and using an outdoor, raised flooring system. This raised flooring would permit stormwater to continue to flow in the same way that it does now, potentially reducing costs to the City. Design M Group’s proposal also aims to have a simpler and more cost-efficient way to correct the parking area near 2nd Street.

    G Street Reimagined-2

    (Click to see larger version)

    The most dramatic part of the proposal was the suggestion to build gateway signs over the entrances to the G Street area as an homage to the original Davis Arch that stood from 1916 to 1924. The gateway columns would be conical, like those of the original Davis Arch, and they would be built with perforated stainless-steel material that would be lit from the inside—creating a starry night sky effect as people walked by the structure.

    Downtown advocate Aaron Wedra has closely followed both the City’s and Design M Group’s plans and expressed his view by stating, “I believe Design M Group’s recommendations offer more substantial improvements to the pedestrian area of G Street than what the City has considered up to this point. The City has repeatedly emphasized adding strand lighting and street art (and other small improvements), but so much more could be done. This space is our city’s historic main street and, considering its proximity to the train station, could serve as the gateway to downtown. Putting a gateway arch on at least the South entrance would bring a lot of life to this pedestrian space. Additionally, Design M Group’s plans make much better use of the entire width of the street. The City’s current plans seem to partition the street into at least five segments unnecessarily.”

    Design M Group’s architectural renderings can be seen at https://smartzgraphics.wixsite.com/design-m.

  • Soup, shopping are stars of Soroptimist event

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    Soroptimist International of Davis hosts a free Soup Night and Silent Auction on Thursday, Nov. 16 at Davis Odd Fellows upper hall. The event includes dozens of soups, breads and desserts at no cost. (Adobe Stock photo)

    (From press release) Soroptimist International of Davis invites community members to join its annual Soup Night and Silent Auction, Thursday, Nov. 16 at the Davis Odd Fellows Hall.

    The service club traditionally hosts the event a week before Thanksgiving. Soroptimists provide free soups, desserts, lively conversation and pre-holiday shopping opportunities. The event will be in the upper hall of Odd Fellows Lodge, 415 Second St. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. The silent auction closes at 7 p.m.

    Fill up on members’ best soups, breads and desserts while getting a jump start on holiday gifts. There will be themed gift baskets, experiences, gift certificates to local stores and eateries, and more. Beer and wine will be available for purchase in the lower hall, along with non-alcoholic beverages. Cash, checks and credit cards will be accepted.

    The evening’s proceeds benefit SI Davis programs and projects. Soroptimist is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment. Soroptimist was founded in 1921 in Alameda County. Soroptimist International of Davis was chartered in 1954. Local members join some 75,000 Soroptimists in 122 countries and territories to contribute time and financial support to community-based projects benefiting women and girls. Its core values are gender equality, empowerment, education, diversity and fellowship.

    SI Davis offers cash Live Your Dream Awards to female heads of household seeking education or training (applications due Nov. 15), and assists King High students through its Dream It, Be It: Career Support for Girls program. It also funds high school scholarships, grants to nonprofits that align with the Soroptimist mission, and anti-trafficking efforts.

    SI Davis members meet twice a month on Wednesdays – once at lunchtime and once in the evening – and connect for other fun activities and service. Learn more at https://www.sidavis.org/.

  • Soup, shopping are stars of Soroptimist event

    (From press release) Soroptimist International of Davis invites community members to join its annual Soup Night and Silent Auction, Thursday, Nov. 16 at the Davis Odd Fellows Hall.

    The service club traditionally hosts the event a week before Thanksgiving. Soroptimists provide free soups, desserts, lively conversation and pre-holiday shopping opportunities. The event will be in the upper hall of Odd Fellows Lodge, 415 Second St. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. The silent auction closes at 7 p.m.

    Fill up on members’ best soups, breads and desserts while getting a jump start on holiday gifts. There will be themed gift baskets, experiences, gift certificates to local stores and eateries, and more. Beer and wine will be available for purchase in the lower hall, along with non-alcoholic beverages. Cash, checks and credit cards will be accepted.

    The evening’s proceeds benefit SI Davis programs and projects. Soroptimist is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment. Soroptimist was founded in 1921 in Alameda County. Soroptimist International of Davis was chartered in 1954. Local members join some 75,000 Soroptimists in 122 countries and territories to contribute time and financial support to community-based projects benefiting women and girls. Its core values are gender equality, empowerment, education, diversity and fellowship.

    SI Davis offers cash Live Your Dream Awards to female heads of household seeking education or training (applications due Nov. 15), and assists King High students through its Dream It, Be It: Career Support for Girls program. It also funds high school scholarships, grants to nonprofits that align with the Soroptimist mission, and anti-trafficking efforts.

    SI Davis members meet twice a month on Wednesdays – once at lunchtime and once in the evening – and connect for other fun activities and service. Learn more at https://www.sidavis.org/.

  • Zombie Bike Ride Halloweekend Festival

    Zombie Bike RideBy Aaron Wedra of the Davis Odd Fellows

    VISIT DAVIS, CALIFORNIA, HOME OF THE WEST COAST’S ZOMBIE BIKE RIDE HALLOWEEKEND FESTIVAL from Friday, October 27th through Sunday, October 29th. Encounter endless Halloween spectacles, including mad scientists, rotting robots, dancing dead, electrifying e-bikes, karate, fencing, laser marksmanship, and a skydiving grand finale! The Davis Odd Fellows and The Bike Campaign are delighted to partner with more than 150 sponsors, collaborators, and media partners to provide unforgettable Halloweekend experiences!

    Norcal TrykersThe Zombie Bike Ride’s mission has always been to make bicycling available to everyone, including children with disabilities. Over the past four years, event organizers have raised funds (primarily from sponsors) and donated more than $22,000 to Norcal Trykers, an organization that creates custom tricycles for children with special needs. Each tricycle costs about $1,000 to make, and funds from our events have provided 23 children with custom tricycles so far. These children get to experience the freedom of riding on a bicycle and feeling the wind in their hair for the first time. With the help of our generous sponsors, we have been able to raise money for our beneficiary, Norcal Trykers, while keeping our events almost entirely FREE to the public! More opportunities to donate to Norcal Trykers are available along the bike route and by registering at www.posh.vip/e/5th-annual-zombie-bike-parade. Registration is completely optional, but is recommended for saving the date, receiving day-of-event announcements, and being automatically entered into a raffle for a "Greg the Zombie" plushy that lets you pull out his brain, heart, and guts!

    If you’re visiting from out of town, arrive early with your family and friends on Friday and experience all that Davis has to offer: art, culture, a vibrant night life, and wonderful lodging. Book a room in one of our 12 hotels/motels, visit the UC Davis Arboretum & Public Garden, and stroll our downtown. Don’t forget to bring, buy, or rent a bike! Davis boasts a variety bike shops, including our featured partners: Davis Cyclery, Green Bicycle Depot, and the Bike Garage. Additionally, the City of Davis has partnered with SPIN bikes and scooters, and you’ll be able to find rentals throughout town. Download the app with the bright red icon.

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  • Sheila Allen, Candidate for Supervisor, Invites the Community to Three Events

    Sheila_Allen(From press release) Sheila Allen, RN, Ph.D., and candidate for Yolo County Supervisor, invites the Davis and surrounding community to three events.

    On Saturday, October 14th, from 1-3 p.m., join special guests Supervisor Jim Provenza
    and Lucas Frerichs, and former State Senator Lois Wolk at a lively kickoff event scheduled at Mace Ranch Park. All are invited to attend. There will be snacks and beverages in a welcoming, family-friendly setting. Attendees are encouraged to bring along their friends, neighbors, and even their beloved furry friends. This is a fantastic opportunity to come together and envision a healthier and brighter future for Yolo County and Davis. This event is free and does not require an RSVP.

    Sunday, October 15th at 7 p.m., come enjoy the classic 1925 silent film “The Phantom of the Opera”—accompanied by a live grand pipe organ! Step into the mesmerizing world of early cinema as Lon Chaney and Mary Philbin unveil the enigmatic tale of the disfigured musical genius who haunts the grand Paris Opera House. This timeless masterpiece includes a special vocal appearance by Kerri Scott and will be accompanied live by David Moreno on a full pipe organ—fully reassembled from a theater in San Francisco. VIP tickets are available that include a one-hour preview, hors d’oeuvres, and a walk inside the pipe organ. This event promises to immerse you in the captivating ambiance of the 1920s. The event  is hosted by Cindy and Daisy Jacob. Seating is limited, so purchase your ticket today.

    Saturday, October 28th, from 4-6 p.m., join host Marlene Bell and Yolo County Supervisor Lucas Frerichs on the lovely outskirts of Winters. The beautiful hand-built, hewn log Bell Ranch home sits alongside an orchard. Guests will enjoy an afternoon of good wine, food, pleasant company, and the beauty of a waning fall afternoon in Yolo County.

    Address provided with ticket purchase.

    For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit: Sheila4Supervisor.com/events We hope to see you there!

  • Reminder: Tickets still available for 20th Village Feast

    Village Feast 2019_Ashley Muir Bruhn-58 1

    Diners enjoy wine at The Village Feast in October 2021. (Ashley Muir Bruhn/Courtesy photo)

    (From press release) The 20th anniversary of The Village Feast is Sunday, Oct. 22 in Davis’ Central Park. The community meal that celebrates the region’s harvest is from noon to 4 p.m. under the shade of the Davis Farmers Market Pavilion, 301 C St.

    Presented by Davis Farm to School and the Les Dames d’Escoffier International, Sacramento, The Village Feast is a fundraiser for food and agricultural education in the greater Sacramento area. The meal follows the late-summer feasts of Provence, France, in the grand aïoli tradition, uniting people and food for a long, leisurely alfresco meal.

    As in years past, each meal begins with appetizers of olives, nuts, local wines and fresh baguettes. The meal is served family-style, with passed platters of heirloom tomatoes drizzled with local olive oil, steamed and grilled local vegetables, hard-boiled eggs, and bowls of garlic-scented aïoli. Next comes the grilled lamb and summer white bean salad, then a fruit galette for dessert.

    Tickets are $165 per person until sold out. Attendees may reserve tables of eight for $1,320. Tickets are available at https://thevillagefeast2023.eventbrite.com.

    The silent auction will be online, available to anyone. Bids open on Oct. 8 and close at 6 p.m. on Oct. 22. It includes dozens of items and experiences donated by chefs, restaurants, wineries and community members. Participants bid on items by downloading the free Auctria smartphone app at https://www.auctria.com/blog/auctria-mobile-app/.

    For more information, email Rachael Levine at rachaellevine@hotmail.com

  • Thursdays in The Davisphere canceled for 2023

    (From press release) Thursdays in The Davisphere, the concert series launched in 2022 by Davis Downtown, is on hiatus until 2024.

    The board of the Davis Downtown Business Association decided this month to cancel the 2023 event, planned for Oct. 26 in Central Park. In 2024, the organization is looking to bring Thursdays in The Davisphere further into the downtown core, to add vibrant energy to its downtown member businesses.

    DDBA Executive Director Brett Maresca said several factors led to the difficult decision. The postponement gives the organization time to raise funds and plan for a spectacular 2024 series.

    The inaugural season of Thursdays in The Davisphere was weekly in September and October 2022, thanks to funding from a city of Davis grant to revitalize local businesses emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic. A follow-up survey showed a nearly 90% approval rating of the event, citing the energy and vibrancy it brought to the downtown. Davis Downtown provided a designated nonprofit beneficiary to receive a portion of proceeds from beer and wine sales.

    Davis Downtown is recruiting sponsors and vendors. Sponsorships would allow the organization to offer multiple Thursdays in The Davisphere events in 2024. For details, email info@davisdowntown.com.

    Davis Downtown leads and energizes the downtown as the primary business, entertainment and cultural center of Davis. Alive with activity seven days a week, downtown Davis draws locals and visitors alike to experience fine food and beverages, retail, professional services, arts and entertainment in an extraordinary and sustainable gathering place.

    • For more information on The Davisphere, visit thedavisphere.com.
    • Learn more about Davis Downtown events and programs at davisdowntown.com.
    • To stay abreast of activities, sign up for the Davis Downtown email newsletter at davisdowntown.com/subscribe.
    • Follow Davis Downtown on Facebook at @davisdowntown and on Instagram at @davis.downtown.

  • The Davisphere returns to Central Park on Oct. 26

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    Crowds gather in Davis’ Central Park on Sept. 29, 2022, for one of the Thursdays in The Davisphere events. The next concert is set for Oct. 26. (Courtesy photo)

    (From press release) Thursdays in The Davisphere, the concert series launched in 2022 by Davis Downtown, will return to Central Park on Oct. 26.

    The spooky-themed, family-friendly event is from 4 to 9 p.m. in Central Park. 301 C St. It will include food, drink, craft, art, retail and other vendors. Attendees are encouraged to dress in costume. The entertainment lineup will be announced soon.

    The inaugural season of Thursdays in The Davisphere was weekly in September and October 2022, thanks to funding from a city of Davis grant to revitalize local businesses emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic. A follow-up survey showed a nearly 90% approval rating of the event, citing the energy and vibrancy it brought to the downtown. Davis Downtown provided a designated nonprofit beneficiary to receive a portion of proceeds from beer and wine sales.

    The 2023 event welcomes UC Davis students who are back in town. It will include mobile food and beverage vendors as well as a beer and wine garden. Patrons are also welcome to bring food and nonalcoholic drinks purchased from downtown businesses.

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  • The 20th Village Feast is set for Oct. 22

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    Diners pass aïoli at The Village Feast in October 2022. (Wendy Weitzel/Courtesy photo)

    (From press release) The Village Feast celebrates the Sacramento region’s Farm-to-Fork season, where the community gathers to enjoy and honor the bounty of local farmers. This year, the event returns to Central Park – under the shade of the Davis Farmers Market structure – for its 20th anniversary community meal, from noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 22.

    Presented by Davis Farm to School and the Les Dames d’Escoffier International, Sacramento, The Village Feast is a fundraiser for food and agricultural education in the greater Sacramento area. The Village Feast follows the late-summer feasts of Provence, France, in the grand aïoli tradition, uniting people and food for a long, leisurely alfresco meal that stars aïoli — a golden garlic-mayonnaise. All proceeds from The Village Feast support early and continued education around food and agriculture.

    As in years past, each meal begins with appetizers of olives, nuts, local wines and fresh baguettes. The meal is served family-style, with passed platters of heirloom tomatoes drizzled with local olive oil, steamed and grilled local vegetables, hard-boiled eggs, and bowls of garlic-scented aïoli. Next comes the grilled lamb and summer white bean salad, then a fruit galette for dessert.

    Les Dames d’Escoffier and Davis Farm to School paired up for this event because of their shared visions and values. Les Dames d’Escoffier, a philanthropic organization of female leaders in the areas of food, fine beverage and hospitality, gives scholarships to area women to further their education in these areas. Davis Farm to School provides garden grants, organizes farm field trips, and supports farm-fresh food in school meals.

    Tickets are $165 per person until sold out. Attendees may reserve tables of eight for $1,320. Tickets are available at https://thevillagefeast2023.eventbrite.com.

    The silent auction will be online, available to anyone. Bids open on Oct. 8 and close at 5 p.m. on Oct. 22. It includes dozens of items and experiences donated by chefs, restaurants, wineries and community members. Participants bid on items by downloading the free Auctria smartphone app at https://www.auctria.com/blog/auctria-mobile-app/. Auction pre-registration begins Sept. 15.

    For more information about The Village Feast event or sponsorships, email Rachael Levine at rachaellevine@hotmail.com.