Petaluma Creamery

Taste tested four times.  Thumbs up!

Petaluma Creamery
621 Western Avenue

Petaluma, CA

The worst thing about sampling at Costco is that there’s always someone watching you.  The best thing about sampling at Petaluma Creamery is that there’s no one  watching you.

That’s right.  No one’s there watching you remove lid after lid from sample containers.  No one’s counting the toothpicks you’re tossing after each cube you eat.  And no one’s raising an eyebrow when you try a particular variety a third time “just to make sure you like it”.

Once inside the creamery’s retail store you’ll spot a large, refrigerated case with dozens of cheeses – everything from basic White Cheddar to unique varieties like spicy Smoked Firehouse Cheddar and mouth-watering Pesto Jack.  Go ahead: loosen your belt and sample cubes of every flavor if you happen to have skipped breakfast like I did.  Move to the right to taste spreadable cheeses and squeaky cheese curds.  Discover new favorites, then take home a few pre-packaged mini slabs or a log the size of a battering ram.

When you think you’ve had your fill of dairy, give your palate a break with a fresh-baked cookie or thick, luscious fruit tart wedge.  Life is about balance, right?

Pasquale's Italian Pizzeria

Ravioli, come to mama.

Pasquale's Italian Pizzeria

7600 Fair Oaks Boulevard

Carmichael, CA

I am a HUGE fan of Angelina's Spaghetti House in Stockton.  For the most part, I try to avoid other Italian restaurants because I end up predictably disappointed (case in point, Galt’s Wholey Ravioli).

However, I’ve finally found a gem in the Sacramento area.  Pasquale's, you are one of my new favorites.

The place was packed on a Friday night, always a good sign, and tabletops were overloaded with giant, blistery pizzas, bubbly baked pasta dishes, and baskets of huge breadsticks atop red and white checkered tablecloths...more good signs.

My buddy and I ordered the half order of breadsticks, all buttery and made even more delicious when dipped into a generous cup of marinara sauce.  His Manicotti with Italian Sausage Sauce was OUTSTANDING, and the side of two oversized meatballs are beyond description (but I'll attempt anyway): meaty, not overspiced, and super tender.

I ordered the special, Spinach Ravioli, which arrived in a pool of Pesto Cream Sauce.  I'm telling you, it was probably one of the best ravioli dishes I've ever had.  The basil wasn't overpowering, and there was just enough salty cheese to complement the tender pillows of pasta.  Phenomenal.

This place is a must-try if you're ever in the Carmichael area!