Tanglewood in Santana Row

In many ways this Santana Row eatery has become my favorite hangout on the Row. Love the decor, the food and the service. Especially the weekend brunches. But tonight, I'm here for a late supper, and the usually crowded restaurant was empty. Most of the patrons had left for the evening, and so I felt like I had just walked into a new restaurant for the first time.

I like the fact that all the produce are sourced from local farm producers and the restaurant is a strong supporter of sustainable farming. Soups are always good here, as well as the appetizers. Also a favorite on the menu is the meatloaf, a generous and flavorful portion of meat served with side vegetables or mashed potatoes or fries. The garlic fries that comes with most dishes are one of the tastiest I've had in a while.

Brunch is another wonderful experience on weekends. There's a set menu consisting of typical breakfast dishes as well as an amazing french toast filled with fresh orange cream and drizzled with syrup, This, and fresh juice and a table by the sidewalk on a Saturday morning watching the world go by is how I love to spend my weekends.

Chapeau! in the Richmond district

One of my recent discoveries, Chapeau! has been a consistent favorite, and I've returned with friends several times for the cuisine, cosy atmosphere and excellent service. Not a date place typically, because of the noise level and cramped quarters (this little bistro really packs them in), but it's a great venue for group dinners or catching up with old friends. Located in a quiet corner of residential Richmond, it's far from most downtown restaurants and this makes parking a lot easier in the crowded city.


Tonight, we ordered the prix fixe menu, and started with a carrot and pumpkin soup drizzled with cream and croutons. This being early spring, the warm soup was a great way to start a meal on a chilly night. For the main, I had the pork loin over pumpkin puree and cabbage. It was served with an impeccable wine reduction, and the loin was perfectly roasted.


For dessert, I ordered the Chilled Orange Soup with Grand-Marnier, Souffle Glace, Tangerine Sorbet with Orange Segments and Coulis a la Menthe. That's it in the photo. Pure decadence, if you know what I mean.