There's a load of good stuff to note around the region, including a new pub coming to Folsom from the folks who own Bonn Lair and a bunch of wine tours. But first, let's deal with a brain freeze from, uh, me.
We recently touted a collection of popular and should-be-popular restaurant courtyards because, really, who doesn't like eating outside? And we asked you for your favorites, which was part of the list. Except I forgot one.
The top vote-getter was Paragary's. I managed to leave it out, and lots of people noticed. So I'm saying here officially, yes, indeed, Paragary's has a great courtyard – serene, pretty, stylish, plus it has its own bar. Next time I do a list, I'll mention it twice.
Now for the new stuff. Dave and Bonnie Boyet, owners of Bonn Lair, that gem of a British-style pub in east Sacramento, are partnering with their friend Dylan Mauro on Samuel Horne's Tavern, scheduled to open in historic Folsom in the next week or two.
And this tavern and restaurant will be a bit of a continental shift. The place will have a 1930s and '40s style, with American craft beers. That means about 100 microbrews in the bottle and 20 or so on tap. The food will be all-American, too, including hot dogs, meatloaf, a $6 burger, and a blue-plate special.
"This is all Dylan," Dave Boyet said. "He's got the enthusiasm that I had when we opened Bonn Lair (15 years ago), and he knows a ton more about beer."
They also plan to have a fenced-in bike cage, knowing that Folsom is a hot destination for cyclists, and Boyet says he's sure at least one of his Bonn Lair regulars will make the ride from central Sacramento to visit.
Momentary disclaimer: Bonn Lair is my home bar. I'm on the record calling it one of the most perfect taverns on the planet. Anything with a similar vibe sounds like a grand idea.
"At some point, we'll probably hire a bus and take a road trip to Folsom from the Lair," Boyet said.
Yes, I'm signing up.
Stomping to a grape finale
The wine harvest all around us is just about over, meaning the next step is festivals and wine tours in celebration.
First up, Friday through Sunday, El Dorado County wineries are toasting Nevada Day – Nevada's statehood came on Oct. 31, 1864 – with food and a festival. Details: (800) 306-3956, www.eldoradowines.org.
Then on the Nov. 14-15 weekend there are all kinds of doings. The biggest is Lodi's First Sip, with 40 wineries going all out with food, special tastings, classes, demos and more. Tickets good for both days are $35 in advance, or $45 at the door of any participating winery. Details: (209) 365-0621, www.firstsiplodi.com.
Placer County's cozy wine country also has its winery tour Nov. 14. Most of the 15 wineries and cider producers are free, and any charges will be refunded if you buy a bottle. It's linked with the area's Autumn Art Studios Tour and its Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival. Details: www.placerhillswinetour.com.
Finally, Sutter Creek has its Winefest 2009 on the evening of Nov. 14, when the town goes crazy for local wineries and art. It costs $25 in advance and $30 on the day. Details: (209) 223-9038, www.acaconline.com.
Call The Bee's Rick Kushman, (916) 321-1187.
About Comments
Reader comments on Sacbee.com are the opinions of the writer, not The Sacramento Bee. If you see an objectionable comment, click the "report abuse" button below it. We will delete comments containing inappropriate links, obscenities, hate speech, and personal attacks. Flagrant or repeat violators will be banned. See more about comments here.