I have always said we are blessed to live in Southern California. This glorious state of ours offers so many possibilities for short vacations. Regardless of the season there is a new adventure lurking over the mountains.
Hanford, Visalia and Lemoore were my destinations. Take Highway 5 to Hanford. I always stop in Button Willow at a truck stop that has the Country Pride Restaurant. They have the best country breakfast between here and San Francisco. Large ham steaks with the eggs of your choice, homemade biscuits with country gravy and grits. The Fried Chicken and corn beef hash are superb.
In Hanford I suggest the Hanford Inn. Across the street is Ryan’s Place, the best coffee shop in the area with moderate prices. A historic western town that remains today as a true tourist destination. In reviewing historic places you have to visit Superior Dairy, a landmark business since l929.
Stepping inside one is surrounded with the feeling of entering a bygone era, touting the old fashioned ice cream parlor. Lending to this atmosphere is the original whipped cream white pressed metal ceiling popular in the 20’s. Along beckoning are the Counter and the strawberry pink booths and walls. The ample portions of the old fashioned, hand made ice creams served here can be part of the shakes, sundaes, sodas and the largest banana Splits ever created. Sandwiches and salads are also available.
Prominently located across the street from the Civic Center Park at 325 North Douty Street.
There are many choices for dining but a trip to Hanford isn’t complete unless you dine a night in Richard Sing’s Imperial Dynasty. You will be amazed of the Chinese antiques that are in every room of the restaurant.
The superb award winning cuisine is accessible Tuesday through Sunday from 4 P.M..
The menu affords a wonderful balance of tradition with trend in featuring high quality continental cuisine including meats, poultry and seafood prepared with classic sauces in butter, wine, cream, stocks and herbs. Dinner prices range from $30 to $50. Known for having one the best wine cellars west of the Mississippi river, there is a bar and lounge for your enjoyment as well.
Exceptional, unforgettable gourmet nine course dinners are available as well by phoning your reservation two weeks in advance. The Imperial Dynasty, 406 China Alley, 559 582-0l96.
The highlight of our trip was shopping at the Antique and Collectibles Fair, an annual event held the 3rd Sunday in October every year. There is entertainment, food and drink plus many bargains. Admission is free. Held in the Civic Center Park in the heart of downtown. There are many antique, collectible and specialty shops. My favorites are: 7th Heaven, 119 West Seventh Street and Hanford Antique Emporium, 108 East 8th Street. You can bargain with all these shops
Visalia founded in 1852, known as the gateway to the Sierras, is the oldest city between Stockton and Los Angeles. It is worth the one hour trip from Hanford to dine at the Depot Restaurant, 207 Oak Street. A fine dining experience awaits you in this historic restaurant, originally 1897 railroad depot. This is gracious dining in elegant Spanish style decor
A well trained staff makes for a lovely experience. There is the standard menu plus daily specials. The night we dined there were many choices such as: Roasted Prime Rib with mashed potato and horseradish sauce, Crab Legs with drawn butter and mashed potato, Garlic, Tomato and Basil Pork. Scaloppine served with linguini and Blackened Salmon with mashed potato, vegetables and salsa. Ranging in price $17.50 to $19.95, including soup or salad. A full bar and good wine list.
In Lemoore is The Palace Indian Gaming Center, 18th & Jersey Avenue. There is a coffee shop and the Sierra Grill on the second floor. It opens only for dinner. Featuring an International menu there is a small wine list but you can b.y.o.b. for no extra charge. Dinner is about $50 including four courses. The ambiance is similar to dining rooms in Las Vegas in the 1950s. For reservations call: 559 924-7751.
Remember this area is the gateway to Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks. It is well worth exploring.>
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