Readers' Choice 2005 Readers' Choice 2005 (August 31, 2005)

Almanac readers name their favorite places to grab a burger, buy a cake, shop for groceries and hear live music

Where's the best place to go for Sunday brunch, a good book, a new bike, or flowers for your sweetie? How about the No. 1 spot to work out, get your hair cut or your clothes dry-cleaned? Almanac readers have answered those questions and many others, and here's what they told us.
BREAKFAST

Regulars have stopped at Ann's Coffee Shop to fill up on breakfast since 1949. The menu's temptations include French toast and homemade pancakes. Patrons can also pick from 10 different omelet variations, including Joe's special, which is stuffed with hamburger meat, onions, mushrooms and spinach. Alas, no weekend brunches, as Ann's is closed Sundays. Ann's Coffee Shop, 772 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park; 322-0043.
CHINESE RESTAURANT, TAKE-OUT FOOD

For the 12th year, readers are giving their endorsement to Su Hong as best Chinese restaurant. Try famous favorites like walnut prawns and Chinese chicken salad. Dependable service and a pleasant ambience make for a comfortable dining experience.

Since almost everything on the dine-in menu is available to go, it's no surprise that Su Hong To Go won best take-out. Take home popular items such as General's Chicken and Mongolian lamb. Su Hong , 1039 El Camino Real, Menlo Park, 323-6852. Su Hong To Go , 630 Menlo Ave., Menlo Park, 322-4631.
DESSERTS, BAKERY

There is nothing sweeter than a stop at Prolific Oven in downtown Palo Alto. Also a winner for best bakery, the dessert shop offers a plethora of cookies and pastries. But the cakes are the real stars. Try a spongy, French-style cake flavored with orange liqueur and whipping cream. Chocoholics can get a little slice of heaven with the "Chocolate-on-Chocolate," a sour cream-chocolate cake wrapped in semi-sweet chocolate frosting. Prolific Oven , 550 Waverley St., Palo Alto; 326-8485.
DINING WITH KIDS

Maybe it's those toy tie-ins. This year, readers voted McDonald's as the best place for dining out with kids. The tried-and-true Happy Meal offers a choice of a hamburger, cheeseburger or Chicken McNuggets. All Happy Meals come with a drink, and either junior-size fries or apples with caramel dip. They can also super-size with a Mighty Kids Meal. McDonald's , 1100 El Camino Real, Menlo Park; 321-1813.
FRENCH RESTAURANT

A new chef de cuisine this year hasn't diminished the love readers have for Left Bank . Voted top French restaurant, the spacious brasserie changes menus with the seasons. Reliable classics include chicken grand-mere and steamed mussels; other savory entrees are rack of lamb, seasonal seafood and shellfish pasta. Left Bank , 635 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park; 473-6543.
INDIAN RESTAURANT

Originally Sue's Indian Kitchen in Sunnyvale, Sue's Indian Cuisine has been serving up South Indian dishes in Mountain View since 1990. Samosas, chicken tikka masala, coriander chicken and lamb vindaloo are some of dishes that won over our readers. Sue's Indian Cuisine , 216 Castro St., Mountain View; 969-1112.
ITALIAN RESTAURANT, PLACE TO TAKE MOM & DAD, PLACE FOR A DATE

Carpaccio has earned multiple superlatives this year for consistently delectable Italian food and a warm Tuscan atmosphere. The ever-changing menu includes a three-mushroom pizza, cured duck with blackberry port sauce and risotto with fresh vegetables. Lasagne layered with sausage, plum tomatoes, bechamel creme and parmesan cheese is available Wednesdays and Fridays. The staff also considers customers' requests to resurrect old favorites in time for special occasions. Carpaccio also ranked as the place to take parents and a date -- separately of course. Carpaccio , 1120 Crane St., Menlo Park; 322-1211.
JAPANESE RESTAURANT

For the past nine years, patrons have stood on chairs while consuming "sake bombs" at this Japanese hot spot in downtown Palo Alto. Besides traditional fare like teriyaki dishes and tempura, the menu at Miyake incorporates more than 25 types of fresh fish, and includes specialty rolls such as the Microsoft Roll, Cowboy Poki Roll and the HP Roll. Fridays and Saturdays bring out disco lights and fast-paced music, ranging from hip hop to reggae. Miyake Restaurant , 140 University Ave., Palo Alto; 323-9449.
MEXICAN RESTAURANT, NEW RESTAURANT

Since its March opening in the space formerly occupied by Top Spin Tennis, Lulu's on the Alameda has gained Numero Uno status with locals. Many of the authentic Mexican recipes are from head chef Lourdes Lopez, whose family owns taquerias in Mexico. No ingredients come out of a can. The menu includes burritos, tacos, enchilada plates, and LuLu's Chop Salad. LuLu's on the Alameda , 3539 Alameda de las Pulgas, Menlo Park; 854-8226.
SANDWICHES/DELI

Regulars are known to drop in at the Village Cheese House on their way to or from the airport for a densely packed sandwich. Open since 1959, the Palo Alto deli has gained a loyal following with our readers. Customers can pick from a variety of meats, cheeses, rolls, and gourmet groceries. All sandwiches come with a signature mustard-mayo spread that people sometimes buy by the pound. Village Cheese House , 157 Town & Country Village, Palo Alto; 326-9251.
SEAFOOD RESTAURANT, FRESH SEAFOOD

Our readers find plenty of good fish to fry at Cook's Seafood Market , which they chose as the best place to get fresh seafood. And they think there's plenty of good fish next door in the restaurant, too. Anchored by its signature fish and chips, made with Alaskan halibut, the restaurant menu offers New England clam chowder and cioppino, as well as a range of fresh fish and shellfish. Open since 1928, the Menlo Park eatery recently added booths to its dining room. Cook's Seafood , 751 El Camino Real, Menlo Park; 325-0604.
SUNDAY BRUNCH

The prolific pancake choices at Stacks' make the long lines in downtown Menlo Park worthwhile. For breakfast, diners can choose from six kinds of crepes, nine types of waffles and 16 different omelets. A lunch menu is also available. Parties of six or more can call ahead for reservations. Otherwise, go before 9 a.m. or after 1 p.m. to avoid a lengthy wait. Stacks' , 600 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park; 838-0066
THAI RESTAURANT

Once again, the family-owned Siam Garden has won our readers' nod when it comes to best Thai food. Red and green curries, chicken with Thai basil, pork or chicken satay are among the culinary favorites. The recently expanded dessert menu includes ice cream flavors such as coconut, mango, guava and pineapple. Siam Garden , 1143 Crane St., Menlo Park; 853-1143.
INTIMATE DINING SPOT

A marble fireplace, brocade-covered walls, and tables placed far enough apart minimize noise and create secluded nooks at Chantilly Restaurant in Redwood City. Romantic dinners start off on a pleasant note with the ladies receiving a customary long-stem rose. Popular entrees include rack of lamb, lobster ravioli and roast duck. Allowing for a 30-minute prep time, a couple can split the souffle Grand Marnier, which is meant for two. Chantilly Restaurant , 3001 El Camino Real, Redwood City; 321-4080.
COFFEE/ESPRESSO

Readers are still abuzz with the coffee bean scene at Peet's Coffee and Tea . Introduced in Menlo Park 35 years ago, Peet's continues to attract caffeine-starved customers, especially on Sunday mornings. Sumatra, Major Dickason, and Panama Esmeralda are some of the unique blends available for brewing up a pot. Numerous juices and teas are also on hand. Peet's Coffee and Tea , 899 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park; 325-8989.
ICE CREAM

When it comes to frozen treats, our readers prefer the local flavors of Yogurt Stop . The grab-and-go sweets shop carries eight basic flavors each of ice cream and frozen yogurt, which can be mixed in any combination. There are also low-carb alternatives of yogurt and toppings. Try specialty drinks such as the frozen hot chocolate or the Ice Rage. Yogurt Stop , 401 El Camino Real, Menlo Park; 325-9864.
HAMBURGERS

The Oasis Beer Garden still owns the burger beat with readers. Served with a side of chips, the classic burgers include the hefty patty melt, which comes with a plate of fries. Other offerings include sandwiches, pizza and salads. The bar's down-home college atmosphere lets patrons chew the fat at wooden tables and catch Stanford athletes on TV or at a nearby seat post-game. Oasis Beer Garden , 241 El Camino Real, Menlo Park; 326-8896
JUICE BAR

Almanac readers find berry bliss and citrus sensations in the smoothies blended at Jamba Juice . Some of the more popular concoctions include Strawberries Wild, Orange Dream Machine and Banana Berry. Every energy drink comes with a free "juice boost." Other nutritional add-ins include bee pollen, protein powder and wheat germ. Carrot juice and shots of wheat-grass juice can also be ordered at the juice bar. Jamba Juice , 69 Town & Country Village, Palo Alto; 325-2582.
PIZZA

This year, a new contender has swept the best pizza crown. A true local institution, Round Table Pizza first launched in Menlo Park in 1959. Today, the nation's fifth largest pizza franchise firm churns out pies with a blend of three real cheeses and dough made on the premises. The menu offers 13 specialty pizzas, ranging from "Italian Garlic Supreme" to "Guinevere's Garden Delight." On the lighter side is a 36-item salad bar. Round Table , 1225 El Camino Real, Menlo Park; 321-6861.
BAGELS

At The Posh Bagel , you can find bagels made with everything from Asiago cheese to sun-dried tomatoes. The 20-plus varieties of bagels have won over Almanac readers, who voted the bagel shop No. 1. Still, plain and poppy seed are the top sellers at the Menlo Park location. Shmears are available in several flavors, from tomato to strawberry. Bagel bites also come in the form of sandwiches such as turkey, sausage and egg. The Posh Bagel , 869 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park; 325-7674.
BAR, LIVE MUSIC

British Bankers Club has taken the spotlight for the sixth year running as best bar and best live music venue. New stools, chairs, tables and giant plasma televisions have been added for a dressier interior. The BBC's after-dark entertainment features a hip hop DJ on Wednesday; karaoke on Thursday; acoustic bands on Friday; and classic rock bands on Saturday. British Bankers Club , 1090 El Camino Real, Menlo Park, 327-8769.
GROCERY STORE

For our readers, Draeger's has the market cornered when it comes to best grocery store. More than 100 varieties of organic produce are on tap every week. The gourmet deli proffers 40 different salads and up to 20 distinct entrees. Shoppers can pick up anything from sushi to barbecued chicken. The market has a well-stocked meat and seafood department and a bakery. Wines, gift baskets, and culinary accoutrements are also available. Draeger's , 1010 University Drive, Menlo Park; 324-7700
PRODUCE

Our readers will venture down to Sigona's Farmers Market at Stanford Shopping Center for fresh fruit and vegetables. What began 30 years ago as a little fruit stand in Morgan Hill has evolved into a trusted specialty store. A majority of the produce comes from local farmers. Soon, Sigona's will carry a full line of dairy products, including gelato and sorbet from a local ice cream maker. Sigona's Farmers Market , Space 399 Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto; 329-1340.
WINE AND LIQUOR

Readers have once again raised a glass to Beltramo's quality wine and liquor. First established in 1882 by Giovanni Beltramo, the store carries more than 3,000 kinds of wine. International brands come from Italy, France, New Zealand, Chile, Switzerland and a host of other countries. There are also about 2,000 types of liquor, wine accessories and gourmet snacks. Pay a set price or by the glass for Saturday wine tastings, conducted from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Beltramo's Wines and Liquors , 1540 El Camino Real, Menlo Park; 325-2806.
BANK

Almanac readers said that Bank of America , which has two Menlo Park locations, tops the rest for their banking needs. Service is at the core of the banks, said Kelly Wrigley, manager of the Santa Cruz Avenue location. "We value and appreciate our customers -- they are the reason we are all here." Bank of America , 633 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park; 324-4433. 2180 Sand Hill Road, Menlo Park; 324-4433.
ORIENTAL CARPETS

Medallion Rug Gallery was chosen this year as readers' favorite oriental carpet shop. The gallery has three large showrooms, displaying more than 9,000 hand-woven rugs from around the globe. It has been in business since 1978 and is open seven days a week. Medallion Rug Gallery , 323 University Ave., Palo Alto; 329-9020.
HARDWARE STORE

For the fourth year in a row, Almanac readers say Palo Alto Hardware is their hardware store of choice. Besides selling paint, electric supplies, and other miscellaneous items, the store offers free consultations for homes and businesses to implement solar electric power systems. Maureen Montez, general manager, says the business has been open for 12 years and that staff is dedicated to customer service. Palo Alto Hardware , 875 Alma St., Palo Alto; 327-7222.
AUTO REPAIR

Almanac readers singled out Menlo-Atherton Shell , which has been in business for 35 years, as their favorite auto repair shop for the sixth year in a row. A family-owned business, M-A Shell allows customers to have their vehicles towed to the shop 24 hours a day. It offers maintenance and mileage services, and specializes in Mercedes and BMW repairs. Menlo-Atherton Shell , 1400 El Camino Real, Menlo Park; 325-1280.
FRAME STORE

Almanac readers say they rely on Fast Frame and University Art to frame their photographs and artwork. Fast Frame , which has been in business for 15 years, offers custom framing services, helping clients choose designs to best suit their needs. It sells an array of mats and moldings, and all framing is done on site. Fast Frame , 603 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park; 322-2200.

University Art , which has been in Palo Alto since 1946, sells ready-made as well as custom-designed frames. It also has art supplies, a creative art supply section for kids, and gifts. University Art , 267 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto; 328-3500.
NURSERY

Almanac readers said for the fifth consecutive year that they prefer heading to Roger Reynolds Nursery and Carriage Stop to buy flowers, plants, and garden supplies. Founded in 1919, the nursery has been family-owned for three generations. It offers landscape design and installation services, and is dedicated to helping customers program their sprinkler systems to conserve water. Roger Reynolds Nursery and Carriage Stop , 133 Encinal Ave., Menlo Park; 322-8914 and 323-5612.
FURNITURE STORE:

Flegels Home Furnishing has won the award for best furniture store for the 13th year in a row. In business for 51 years, Flegels features interior design services and a selection of standard furniture. Additionally, it offers reproductions of the Althorp Collection from Charles Spencer's home, and furniture lines by French designer Jacques Garcia. Flegels Home Furnishings , 870 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park; 326-9661.
PLUMBER

Almanac readers declared Guy Plumbing and Heating the best plumber once again. In its 57th year of operation, this five-person family business performs repairs and other services such as remodeling and addition projects. The store also has a Kohler appliance showroom. Guy Plumbing and Heating 1265 El Camino Real, Menlo Park; 323-8421.
BICYCLE SHOP

Menlo Velo , which has been in business since 1985, received the vote for best bike store for the third year in a row. In addition to selling equipment -- including road bikes, family bikes, and kids' bikes -- the shop offers repair and rental services. Menlo Velo ,433 El Camino Real, Menlo Park; 327-5137.
APPAREL, BOUTIQUE

For all the latest fashions, Almanac shoppers say they prefer to shop at Calla , a Menlo Park boutique that's been around for 11 years. Calla has won best boutique for seven consecutive years, and sells clothing and accessories from designers including Michael Star, BCBG, Kate Spade, Puma, and Lilly Pulitzer. The shop accommodates special orders. Calla , 895 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park; 322-5524.
CLEANERS

Perhaps customers favor Country Club Cleaners because it uses non-toxic dry cleaning supplies, says owner Thomas Chang. The shop, which has been around for about 16 years, also conducts all of its services on site. Country Club Cleaners , 3536 Alameda, Menlo Park; 854-5474.
HEALTH/FITNESS CENTER

Facility manager John Cohen says AXIS Performance Center has one of the most educated personal training staffs in the country. Perhaps that's why Almanac readers voted it their favorite fitness center this year. The center caters to the needs of every client, creating appropriate programs for each individual, Mr. Cohen says. AXIS Performance Center , 550 Ravenswood Ave., Menlo Park, 463-1920.
HAIR SALON, MANICURIST

Whether to browse shelves of international hair and nail products or indulge in French manicures, Almanac readers said for the fourth consecutive year that they choose to visit Los Salonez over other hair salons and manicurists. Klara Turner, owner of the salon, says her business promotes a casual, friendly atmosphere. Highly trained hair and nail professionals offer services to clients of all ages -- from 2 to 90 -- she says. Los Salonez , 1012 Alma St., Menlo Park; 328-0735.
BARBER

To get trendy new haircuts in an old-fashioned atmosphere, visit Golden Shears , voted the favorite local barber for the fifth time by Almanac readers. Sam Volero, an employee, says that the shop has not changed much in its 42 years of business -- it even has some of the original furniture. The shop offers traditional and new styles, and service for the whole family. Golden Shears , 814 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park; 325-0943.
PHARMACY

For the fifth year in a row, our readers say they turn to Preuss Pharmacy for prescriptions, cosmetics and other supplies. The pharmacy has been in business for more than 20 years, and as always, the staff is on a first-name basis with most customers, says owner John Celedon. Besides offering prescription compounding, the store delivers prescriptions to residences from Redwood City to Palo Alto, and has increased its efficiency with a new computerized prescription-filling machine, Mr. Celedon says. Preuss Pharmacy , 844 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park; 321-8045.
FLORIST

Almanac readers decided that Cindy's Flowers and Gifts and Menlo Florist should share the spotlight for this year's best florist award. Cindy's , which won last year, has been in business since 1983 and specializes in flower arrangements for offices and large parties. It also sells a variety of gift baskets, flowers and plants for any occasion. Cindy's Flowers and Gifts , 657-1/2 Oak Grove Ave., Menlo Park; 321-4864.

Menlo Florist , family-owned since 1952, is known for its wedding and anniversary floral arrangements, and also sells a variety of giftware, says co-owner Leslie Aldrich. "Customers feel at home here," she says. "We have a lot of people (who) come in all the time, and we know the community well." Menlo Florist , 780 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park; 323-3171.
JEWELRY STORE

Tiffany & Co. was the big hit this year for our readers. In Palo Alto for more than seven years, the store offers a broad selection of jewelry and excellent customer service, says Bebe Kokab, director of the Stanford Shopping Center store. It also has close ties to the community, she adds: The store regularly raises funds for local organizations and charitable projects, such as the Menlo Horse Show fundraiser that benefits the visually impaired. Tiffany & Co. , 149 Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto; 328-2552.
PLACE TO MEET PEOPLE

Year after year, our readers name Cafe Borrone as the best place to meet people. Customers can grab coffee, soups, salads, and sandwiches, and often choose to head to the outdoor seating area on the plaza. The cafe is family-owned and has been in business for 15 years, says Marina Borrone, general manager. The spot offers casual dining in a comfortable atmosphere, and draws people of all ages, backgrounds, and professions, she says, making it an interesting place to interact with others. Cafe Borrone , 1010 El Camino Real, Menlo Park; 327-0830.
STATIONERY STORE

Village Stationers, founded in 1976, is Almanac readers' top stationery store pick once again. Owner Kerry Hoctor says most employees have worked there for more than five years, making for familiar faces and great customer service -- characteristics that a neighborhood shop should have. The store sells gifts and greeting cards, as well as everyday office supplies, he says. Village Stationers , 719 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park; 321-6920.
TRAVEL AGENCY

This year, Almanac readers chose Meridian World Travel/American Express , which specializes in cruises, trips to Hawaii, and European vacation packages, as their preferred travel agency. The store has been around for 40 years and offers a high level of service, says Mark Copus, marketing manager. Part of the agency's appeal, no doubt, is agent and world traveler Anita Douglas, who as owner of Travel Now, was our readers' No. 1 choice for seven years running. Ms. Douglas closed Travel Now recently and now is on board at Meridian. Meridian World Travel/American Express , 830 Menlo Ave., Menlo Park; 328-2030. HOTEL

Almanac readers said for the fourth year straight that the Stanford Park Hotel -- complete with suites, business rooms, and high-speed internet access, even by the pool -- is their favorite place to stay or put up friends and family. Jonathan Farrington, vice president and general manager, credits the hotel's popularity to a tenured, highly trained staff that does everything possible to make clients' experiences enjoyable. The hotel's Duck Club Restaurant has remained a hit since it hired a new executive chef a year ago, and is complemented by the new Lounge at the Park restaurant, which serves lighter fare both indoors and outdoors. Stanford Park Hotel , 100 El Camino Real, Menlo Park; 322-1234.
TOY SHOP

Palo Alto Sport Shop and Toy World , combines an inventory of toys for all age groups with a range of athletic gear -- a combination that appeals to Almanac readers. Its array of scooters is also of interest to many, say its staff. Palo Alto Sport Shop and Toy World , 526 Waverley St., Palo Alto; 328-8555.
PET SHOP

The main goal of The Pet Place , which readers' chose as their favorite pet store for the 13th consecutive year, is to help people take care of their animals in the best possible way, says owner Marc Macy. The store offers a vast selection of supplies for all pets, including older and disabled animal friends. It does custom ordering and tries to teach community members and customers alike about animal health and welfare, Mr. Macy says. The store, for example, has been instrumental in providing free, disposable bags for cleaning up after pets in public parks. The Pet Place , 777 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park; 325-7387.
BOOKSTORE

No surprises here! For years on end, Almanac readers have chosen Kepler's Books and Magazines as their favorite bookstore. This year, the shop is celebrating its 50th anniversary, and plans to enhance its children's department, says Jenny Davis, events coordinator. Kepler's currently carries about 100,000 titles, and will kick off a new season of author events in September, bringing figures such as Alan Alda and Salman Rushdie to the store, she says. Kepler's Books and Magazines , 1010 El Camino Real, Menlo Park; 324-4321.

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