December 2011 Archives
Ontario Mills' food court, once dubbed "Big Food," has just gotten a lot smaller.
Most of the food court's tenants, including Kenny Rogers Roasters, La Salsa Fresh Mexican Grill, Everything Yogurt and Salad Cafe, Kelly's Cajun Grill, Jody Maroni's Sausage Kingdom and Cinnabon, had their last day of business today (December 31).
Also closed is the Cheesecake Factory Bakery Cafe, located across from the food court.
Bruegger's Bagels, Burger King and Sbarro will remain open, but only until April.
Outside the food court, Starbucks will also remain open until April.
All the affected restaurants were franchises operated by HMS Host.
Most of the food court's tenants, including Kenny Rogers Roasters, La Salsa Fresh Mexican Grill, Everything Yogurt and Salad Cafe, Kelly's Cajun Grill, Jody Maroni's Sausage Kingdom and Cinnabon, had their last day of business today (December 31).
Also closed is the Cheesecake Factory Bakery Cafe, located across from the food court.
Bruegger's Bagels, Burger King and Sbarro will remain open, but only until April.
Outside the food court, Starbucks will also remain open until April.
All the affected restaurants were franchises operated by HMS Host.
Continue reading Ontario Mills' Big Food gets much, much smaller.
The Ontario Spike's Teriyaki Bowl, 843 N. Mountain Ave., has closed.
I believe that was the last remaining location for the small chain. It appears that at various times, there were restaurants in Colton, Covina, El Monte and La Mirada.
I believe that was the last remaining location for the small chain. It appears that at various times, there were restaurants in Colton, Covina, El Monte and La Mirada.
Participating Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf locations will be serving up 12-ounce hot and iced Caramel Lattes and Caramel Cream Tea Lattes for only $1 during its next open house event from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday (January 4).
The offer is not valid in airport or Ralphs supermarket locations and cannot be combined with other offers.
For more information, click here to visit the Facebook event page.
Inland Empire Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf locations include Redlands, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Claremont, Chino Hills, Riverside, Lake Elsinore, Temecula, Palm Springs, La Quinta, Palm Desert and Indio.
The offer is not valid in airport or Ralphs supermarket locations and cannot be combined with other offers.
For more information, click here to visit the Facebook event page.
Inland Empire Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf locations include Redlands, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Claremont, Chino Hills, Riverside, Lake Elsinore, Temecula, Palm Springs, La Quinta, Palm Desert and Indio.
For those of you who missed the Gingerbread Shop at this year's Los Angeles County Fair (myself included), you can catch it at Riverside's Festival of Lights.Gingerbread Shop will be selling cookies, gingerbread cake and "the best hot cocoa on the planet" through January 8.
Prices appear to be unchanged since the 2010 L.A. County Fair.
Some of you may be old enough to remember when the pink A-frame had a permanent spot in the Inland Center.
Apparently, before that, they sold gingerbread at Santa's Village.
The current owners are from Yucaipa.
The Gingerbread Shop is on the Main Street pedestrian mall, just north of Mission Inn Avenue.
San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino has mixed things up in its Serrano Buffet.
The Mexican buffet night has moved to Friday night, replacing the typical seafood buffet, which is now on Wednesday.
Also, barbecue night has been moved to Tuesday.
But that's not the big news.
The big news is that they've also revamped the menu.
Dine 909 was one of a select group of media folks invited to a special tasting dinner hosted by Chef Joe Craighead and Food and Beverage Manager Bob Svonkin a few weeks back. I enjoyed pretty much everything I sampled that evening.
The changes are welcome, since while I've always thought that the Serrano Buffet was good, I've also thought that there was room for improvement.
Head over the jump to read on!
The Mexican buffet night has moved to Friday night, replacing the typical seafood buffet, which is now on Wednesday.Also, barbecue night has been moved to Tuesday.
But that's not the big news.
The big news is that they've also revamped the menu.
Dine 909 was one of a select group of media folks invited to a special tasting dinner hosted by Chef Joe Craighead and Food and Beverage Manager Bob Svonkin a few weeks back. I enjoyed pretty much everything I sampled that evening.
The changes are welcome, since while I've always thought that the Serrano Buffet was good, I've also thought that there was room for improvement.
Head over the jump to read on!
Continue reading San Manuel's Serrano Buffet mixes it up.
I can't believe it's been three years since the completion of the Loma Linda fresh & easy (at Redlands Boulevard and Mountain View Avenue), and it still isn't open.
But at least we're not the only ones waiting.
There are also two locations in Moreno Valley that were completed years ago and have yet to open.
And a third there that opened for a while and then closed.
But seriously, Loma Linda?
You would think that a market that prides itself on having no high fructose corn syrup, added trans fats, artificial colors or flavors and preservatives only when necessary in its own line of foods would do well in a city where the proposal of allowing a McDonald's within its borders caused wailing and gnashing of teeth.
Sigh.
Click here to read business reporter Andrew Edwards' update on the unopened market.
But at least we're not the only ones waiting.
There are also two locations in Moreno Valley that were completed years ago and have yet to open.
And a third there that opened for a while and then closed.
But seriously, Loma Linda?
You would think that a market that prides itself on having no high fructose corn syrup, added trans fats, artificial colors or flavors and preservatives only when necessary in its own line of foods would do well in a city where the proposal of allowing a McDonald's within its borders caused wailing and gnashing of teeth.
Sigh.
Click here to read business reporter Andrew Edwards' update on the unopened market.
The Handel's Ice Cream empire is growing...and getting dangerously close to home!
There's a "coming soon" sign posted at 6403 Haven Ave. (just north of SR-210) in Rancho Cucamonga.
The new location takes up two storefronts, so I'm thinking there might be room for indoor seating, as opposed to the Upland location, which is all outdoor seating.
For those of you who have never experienced Handel's, all you really need to know is that it's a Dine 909 favorite.
This will be the third California location for the Ohio-based Handel's. There's also a location in Redondo Beach.
There's a "coming soon" sign posted at 6403 Haven Ave. (just north of SR-210) in Rancho Cucamonga.
The new location takes up two storefronts, so I'm thinking there might be room for indoor seating, as opposed to the Upland location, which is all outdoor seating.
For those of you who have never experienced Handel's, all you really need to know is that it's a Dine 909 favorite.
This will be the third California location for the Ohio-based Handel's. There's also a location in Redondo Beach.
You know those other guys.
They'll give you a $5 bonus gift card when you purchase a $25 gift card. But remember to use that bonus gift card before it expires...at the end of January.
Or even worse, they'll make you spend $50 before you see any kind of bonus.
Not Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. Oh, no.
Reserve and dine at Fleming's before December 30, spend $50 and they'll knock $25 off your bill.
Wow.
And if you bring the whole crew and the bill comes to more than $150, you'll also get a bonus $25 gift card to spend in the first three months in 2012. Spend over $300 and get a bonus $50 gift card.
They'll give you a $5 bonus gift card when you purchase a $25 gift card. But remember to use that bonus gift card before it expires...at the end of January.
Or even worse, they'll make you spend $50 before you see any kind of bonus.
Not Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. Oh, no.
Reserve and dine at Fleming's before December 30, spend $50 and they'll knock $25 off your bill.
Wow.
And if you bring the whole crew and the bill comes to more than $150, you'll also get a bonus $25 gift card to spend in the first three months in 2012. Spend over $300 and get a bonus $50 gift card.
Continue reading Spend $50, pay $25 at Fleming's.
As if being able to give 40 free $10 gift certificates every day 'til Christmas through its Feed it Forward program wasn't enough, restaurant.com is now offering many $25 gift certificates for only $1.
Yep. One dollar.
As we've pointed out before, the certificates usually come with stipulations: Most likely, you have to spend $35 to be able to use the certificate, and an 18% gratuity is automatically added.
The stipulations cut down your savings just a bit, but you're still saving.
The best part? It's a great way to check out local restaurants (the majority of the restaurants on restaurant.com are mom and pops) without breaking the bank. You might find a new favorite.
To begin, click here. Be sure to check the stipulations before you commit, and use the promo code "JOY" to get the 90% off discount.
Yep. One dollar.
As we've pointed out before, the certificates usually come with stipulations: Most likely, you have to spend $35 to be able to use the certificate, and an 18% gratuity is automatically added.
The stipulations cut down your savings just a bit, but you're still saving.
The best part? It's a great way to check out local restaurants (the majority of the restaurants on restaurant.com are mom and pops) without breaking the bank. You might find a new favorite.
To begin, click here. Be sure to check the stipulations before you commit, and use the promo code "JOY" to get the 90% off discount.
The folks over at KFC sent us a coupon to share with our readers.You can get two pieces (drumstick and thigh) and a biscuit for $2.
The deal is good through Saturday (December 24) at participating Southern California locations.
For more deals, head to KFC SoCal's Facebook page.
KFC restaurants can be found throughout the Inland Empire.
Elephant Bar has begun a new program that allows you to give free appetizers to up to four Facebook friends.
In doing so, you'll earn yourself a free Bistro salad.
If your friends also give free appetizers to their friends, you'll get credit for that as well.
Earn enough credits (and it doesn't take much), and you could also get a free entrée!
It's a little complicated to explain here, but Elephant Bar has done a pretty good job explaining it on its Exclusive Giving Event page.
Elephant Bar has Inland Empire locations in San Bernardino, Montclair, Riverside and Palm Desert.
In doing so, you'll earn yourself a free Bistro salad.
If your friends also give free appetizers to their friends, you'll get credit for that as well.
Earn enough credits (and it doesn't take much), and you could also get a free entrée!
It's a little complicated to explain here, but Elephant Bar has done a pretty good job explaining it on its Exclusive Giving Event page.
Elephant Bar has Inland Empire locations in San Bernardino, Montclair, Riverside and Palm Desert.
Stater Bros. Charities continues to generously donate to the Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County Food Bank.
The market's charitable arm has donated $10,000 to the food bank as part of their third annual Harvesting Hope campaign, presented by Coca-Cola.
If you've been to your local Stater Bros. lately, you've seen the food collection barrels on your way in and out of the store.
Items in great demand include canned fruits and vegetables, whole grains such as oatmeal, crackers, cereal and pastas, canned meats, canned or dry beans and shelf-stable dairy products.
You also might have noticed donation cards at the registers that allow customers to give set amounts to the Harvesting Hope campaign.
If $5 or $10 is a little more than your budget can handle, there's also a change canister at the registers as well.
A big Dine 909 thanks to all who have donated, and thanks to Stater Bros. and the CAPSBC food bank!
The market's charitable arm has donated $10,000 to the food bank as part of their third annual Harvesting Hope campaign, presented by Coca-Cola.
If you've been to your local Stater Bros. lately, you've seen the food collection barrels on your way in and out of the store.
Items in great demand include canned fruits and vegetables, whole grains such as oatmeal, crackers, cereal and pastas, canned meats, canned or dry beans and shelf-stable dairy products.
You also might have noticed donation cards at the registers that allow customers to give set amounts to the Harvesting Hope campaign.
If $5 or $10 is a little more than your budget can handle, there's also a change canister at the registers as well.
A big Dine 909 thanks to all who have donated, and thanks to Stater Bros. and the CAPSBC food bank!
Thanks to Inland Valley Daily Bulletin columnist David Allen for alerting us via Twitter to this interesting bit of news...
Sure enough, you head to the link and get a brief bio of Dr. Bob and a description of some of his delicious ice cream flavors.
Of course, those of us here in the Inland Empire have an easier time of finding Dr. Bob's HandCrafted IceCreams than most other folks.
In fact, one can just go to Pop's Cafe and Creamery, 228 N. Second Ave., in Upland and order a scoop or two. Or head to Wolfe's Market, 160 W. Foothill Blvd., in Claremont and pick up a pint.
Click here to read the post on the Today website.
@calpolypomona's Dr. Bob's Ice Cream listed among "all-American" gifts for foodies for Christmas on @todayshow: bites.today.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/12/...
-- David Allen (@DavidAllen909) December 21, 2011
Sure enough, you head to the link and get a brief bio of Dr. Bob and a description of some of his delicious ice cream flavors.
Of course, those of us here in the Inland Empire have an easier time of finding Dr. Bob's HandCrafted IceCreams than most other folks.
In fact, one can just go to Pop's Cafe and Creamery, 228 N. Second Ave., in Upland and order a scoop or two. Or head to Wolfe's Market, 160 W. Foothill Blvd., in Claremont and pick up a pint.
Click here to read the post on the Today website.
Nutritionist Beth Reardon of Duke University's Center for Integrative Medicine has taken the calorie counts of typical holiday treats and calculated how long it would take to walk off those calories.
The results will wear you out just reading them.
Here's a short list:
Click here to view the entire chart.
The results will wear you out just reading them.
Here's a short list:
- One cube of cheese: 19 minutes
- Five Ritz crackers: 22 minutes
- One cup of Chex mix: 67 minutes
- One holiday cookie: 28 minutes
- One class of egg nog: 95 minutes
- Grande peppermint white chocolate mocha: 131 minutes
Click here to view the entire chart.
Ra Pour's prix fixe menu,
mentioned in this space last week, has changed. The Christmas Eve
dinner is $49, not $39. The New Year's Eve dinner remains $49. There are
three seatings for the New Year's Eve menu -- 5 to 7 p.m., 7 to 9 p.m.
and after 9:30 p.m. The dinner after 9:30 p.m. will be $74, which
includes champagne toast.
Information: 909-899-7999
Information: 909-899-7999
...Wendy Williams!
Congratulations, Wendy!
Thanks to random.org for helping pick the winners and thanks to all of you for entering...many of you shared your favorites from Corner Bakery Cafe.
Lots of Corner Bakery fans here in the Inland Empire!
And if you didn't win...there's still time to order some fresh-baked holiday sweets for your work or family get-togethers! As you read, they're delicious!
Congratulations, Wendy!
Thanks to random.org for helping pick the winners and thanks to all of you for entering...many of you shared your favorites from Corner Bakery Cafe.
Lots of Corner Bakery fans here in the Inland Empire!
And if you didn't win...there's still time to order some fresh-baked holiday sweets for your work or family get-togethers! As you read, they're delicious!
Isn't the Internet wonderful?
The other day I happened to stumble upon a blog that mentioned that the Valentino's Pizza truck will be at the MetroPCS store in Pomona on Sunday (December 18).
Giving away pizza!
Then I happened to spot another MetroPCS store (in Redlands) hosting another food truck (Mandoline Grill) food giveaway!
It's all part of a promotion for MetroPCS' launch of the special edition tokidoki Android phone.
The Redlands event is from noon to 2 p.m. tomorrow (December 17) at the store at 10080 Alabama St. (Incidentally, the exact same that time a third event, with the BaconMANia truck will take place at the Fullerton store at 205 E. Orangethorpe Ave.)
The Pomona event is from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at 68 Rio Rancho Road.
Thank you, Internet!
The other day I happened to stumble upon a blog that mentioned that the Valentino's Pizza truck will be at the MetroPCS store in Pomona on Sunday (December 18).
Giving away pizza!
Then I happened to spot another MetroPCS store (in Redlands) hosting another food truck (Mandoline Grill) food giveaway!
It's all part of a promotion for MetroPCS' launch of the special edition tokidoki Android phone.
The Redlands event is from noon to 2 p.m. tomorrow (December 17) at the store at 10080 Alabama St. (Incidentally, the exact same that time a third event, with the BaconMANia truck will take place at the Fullerton store at 205 E. Orangethorpe Ave.)
The Pomona event is from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at 68 Rio Rancho Road.
Thank you, Internet!
Ra Pour restaurant and lounge is hosting an "Open Sleigh" instrument, toy and food drive from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday (December 18).
The event is in conjunction with Grammy-award winning producers Bobby and Issiah Avila, who grew up in San Bernardino County. The Avila Brothers have worked with Janet Jackson, Usher, Gwen Stefani and Mary J. Blige.
99.1 KGGI will provide entertainment.
Ra Pour is at 7900 Kew Ave. in Rancho Cucamonga's Victoria Gardens.
The event is in conjunction with Grammy-award winning producers Bobby and Issiah Avila, who grew up in San Bernardino County. The Avila Brothers have worked with Janet Jackson, Usher, Gwen Stefani and Mary J. Blige.
99.1 KGGI will provide entertainment.
Ra Pour is at 7900 Kew Ave. in Rancho Cucamonga's Victoria Gardens.
Last week, the marketing folks at Corner Bakery Cafe reached out to Dine 909 and made us an offer we couldn't refuse: We get free fresh-baked holiday treats to review and then one lucky Dine 909er gets the exact same treats to share with friends and family.
Free goodies? And free goodies for a reader? Count us in!
What we got was three items from the chain's holiday catering menu: A cinnamon creme cake, a tray of red velvet whoopee pies and a tray of baby bundt cakes (chocolate, red velvet and gingerbread pumpkin).
It so happened that Thursday was our holiday dinner here at The Sun, so I arranged to pick up the goodies at the Rancho Cucamonga location for that day.
When I went to pick up the treats, the restaurant was swamped! However, I just stepped over to the phone pick-up area and was helped right away. Thanks, Jamie!
Of course, with all those goodies, I needed help in reviewing 'em! So I quickly typed up a review sheet, set the goodies in our conference room, and right after lunch, started inviting folks to come taste and review.
Follow the jump to see what they had to say...and to find out how you can get the same treats for free!
Free goodies? And free goodies for a reader? Count us in!
What we got was three items from the chain's holiday catering menu: A cinnamon creme cake, a tray of red velvet whoopee pies and a tray of baby bundt cakes (chocolate, red velvet and gingerbread pumpkin).It so happened that Thursday was our holiday dinner here at The Sun, so I arranged to pick up the goodies at the Rancho Cucamonga location for that day.
When I went to pick up the treats, the restaurant was swamped! However, I just stepped over to the phone pick-up area and was helped right away. Thanks, Jamie!
Of course, with all those goodies, I needed help in reviewing 'em! So I quickly typed up a review sheet, set the goodies in our conference room, and right after lunch, started inviting folks to come taste and review.
Follow the jump to see what they had to say...and to find out how you can get the same treats for free!
Continue reading Corner Bakery Cafe wants to make your holidays sweeter.
Baker's Drive-Thru is hiring for its upcoming Rancho Cucamonga location.
Applications being accepted on site from 9 to 11 a.m. and from 2 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday on site at 12009 Foothill Blvd., Rancho Cucamonga.
The Inland Empire-based chain is seeking crew members, openers, closers and crew leaders.
Wages are $8.50 to $10.50 per hour to start, depending on experience.
You may also apply online by clicking here.
This'll be a return to the city for Baker's after closing a location at 9538 Foothill Blvd. several years ago. That location is now a Joey's Bar-B-Q.
Applications being accepted on site from 9 to 11 a.m. and from 2 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday on site at 12009 Foothill Blvd., Rancho Cucamonga.
The Inland Empire-based chain is seeking crew members, openers, closers and crew leaders.
Wages are $8.50 to $10.50 per hour to start, depending on experience.
You may also apply online by clicking here.
This'll be a return to the city for Baker's after closing a location at 9538 Foothill Blvd. several years ago. That location is now a Joey's Bar-B-Q.
Burger King has revamped its French fries and wants everyone to try them.
So, the chain is giving them away on Friday (December 16).
No purchase necessary.
Just walk into any participating Burger King on Friday and get a value-sized order of the new fries. For free. While supplies last.
For more information, click here.
Burger King restaurants can be found throughout the Inland Empire.
So, the chain is giving them away on Friday (December 16).
No purchase necessary.
Just walk into any participating Burger King on Friday and get a value-sized order of the new fries. For free. While supplies last.
For more information, click here.
Burger King restaurants can be found throughout the Inland Empire.
The city's newest restaurant, Ra Pour,
serves up dishes created by executive chef Greg Stillman, formerly of
Los Angeles' famed Patina. For Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, the
Victoria Gardens restaurant will offer Stillman's prix fixe menus for
$49.
Christmas Eve menu
Peppermint eggnog shooter
Gougeres
Choice of: Apple and parsnip soup, Hiramasa crudo
Choice of: Honey-roasted ham, roasted beef prime rib
Loup de mer
Choice of: Warm persimmon cake, chocolate ganache, sticky toffee pudding
New Year's Eve menu
Beet spheres with lemon ice
Choice of: Chestnut agnolotti, Bigeye tuna
Choice of: Bacon-crusted Loch Duart salmon, Roasted hand-carved New York strip steak
Choice of: Satsuma mandarin sorbet, chocolate fondant
Information: 909-899-7999
Update: There will be three seatings on New Year's Eve: 5 to 7 p.m., 7 to 9 p.m., and 9:30 p.m. to New Year (Ra Pour closes at 2 a.m.). The "New Year" seating will include a champagne toast and is will cost $74.
Christmas Eve menu
Peppermint eggnog shooter
Gougeres
Choice of: Apple and parsnip soup, Hiramasa crudo
Choice of: Honey-roasted ham, roasted beef prime rib
Loup de mer
Choice of: Warm persimmon cake, chocolate ganache, sticky toffee pudding
New Year's Eve menu
Beet spheres with lemon ice
Choice of: Chestnut agnolotti, Bigeye tuna
Choice of: Bacon-crusted Loch Duart salmon, Roasted hand-carved New York strip steak
Choice of: Satsuma mandarin sorbet, chocolate fondant
Information: 909-899-7999
Update: There will be three seatings on New Year's Eve: 5 to 7 p.m., 7 to 9 p.m., and 9:30 p.m. to New Year (Ra Pour closes at 2 a.m.). The "New Year" seating will include a champagne toast and is will cost $74.
Rancho Cucamonga seems to be the place for charity See's Candy sales.
We wrote about the Assistance League's sales a couple of weeks ago.
Now the Kiwanis Club has gotten into the game.
The Kiwanis Club has set up shop in inside the JC Penney Furniture Outlet at 8443 Haven Ave. (at Arrow Route) in Rancho Cucamonga.
Just think...no parking hassles, a variety of See's Candy to choose from and no sales tax!
In addition, all proceeds from the sale of the candy go back to the community.
Sales will be held from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. Sundays through December 24.
Kiwanis is a global organization dedicated to changing the world, one child and one community at a time.
For more information about the candy sales or the Rancho Cucamonga Kiwanis Club, please call Steve Roberts at 909-660-0951.
We wrote about the Assistance League's sales a couple of weeks ago.
Now the Kiwanis Club has gotten into the game.
The Kiwanis Club has set up shop in inside the JC Penney Furniture Outlet at 8443 Haven Ave. (at Arrow Route) in Rancho Cucamonga.
Just think...no parking hassles, a variety of See's Candy to choose from and no sales tax!
In addition, all proceeds from the sale of the candy go back to the community.
Sales will be held from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. Sundays through December 24.
Kiwanis is a global organization dedicated to changing the world, one child and one community at a time.
For more information about the candy sales or the Rancho Cucamonga Kiwanis Club, please call Steve Roberts at 909-660-0951.
From 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday (December 15), the Greater Good Coffee Company will host a "Music and a Meal" fundraising event.
The "meal" portion of the event will cost $5 and will include a sandwich, a bag or organic chips and a drink.
The "music" portion will include original and cover tunes from R & B girl group Breaking Day, with the band Sour Stems. Opening for them will be eleven-string bass guitarist Chando Carlson.
Greater Good Coffee Company is an affiliate of Ability Counts, Inc., a nonprofit company that offers vocational training and job opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. Three individuals from Ability Counts are employed at the GGCC.
Proceeds will benefit the Special Olympics through Ability Counts, Inc.
The Greater Good Coffee Company is located at 300 State St. (in the Citibank building) in Redlands.
For more information, click here.
The "meal" portion of the event will cost $5 and will include a sandwich, a bag or organic chips and a drink.
The "music" portion will include original and cover tunes from R & B girl group Breaking Day, with the band Sour Stems. Opening for them will be eleven-string bass guitarist Chando Carlson.
Greater Good Coffee Company is an affiliate of Ability Counts, Inc., a nonprofit company that offers vocational training and job opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. Three individuals from Ability Counts are employed at the GGCC.
Proceeds will benefit the Special Olympics through Ability Counts, Inc.
The Greater Good Coffee Company is located at 300 State St. (in the Citibank building) in Redlands.
For more information, click here.
A bit lost in all the hoopla surrounding the opening of the new Farrell's Ice Cream Parlour in Rancho Cucamonga was the fact that we had another restaurant opening to herald.
Panera Bread has opened in the spot where Mel's Drive-In used to be at 11550 Fourth St. in Rancho Cucamonga, just north of Ontario Mills mall.
The bakery cafe will host its official grand opening in January, and will present a local charity with a check during the event.
Welcome to the neighborhood, Panera!
Panera Bread has opened in the spot where Mel's Drive-In used to be at 11550 Fourth St. in Rancho Cucamonga, just north of Ontario Mills mall.
The bakery cafe will host its official grand opening in January, and will present a local charity with a check during the event.
Welcome to the neighborhood, Panera!
As if giving away hot beverages every day last week wasn't enough, Baker's Drive-Thru is offering a free BRC (that's beans, rice and cheese for you novices) burrito for its Facebook fans (and others).
You can either print the coupon or simply show it on your mobile device. The usual restrictions apply: One free item per customer and one coupon per person or per car per visit.
Click here for the Facebook event page.
As you know, Baker's Drive-Thru restaurants are located throughout the Inland Empire.
You can either print the coupon or simply show it on your mobile device. The usual restrictions apply: One free item per customer and one coupon per person or per car per visit.
Click here for the Facebook event page.
As you know, Baker's Drive-Thru restaurants are located throughout the Inland Empire.
Those people on your gift list who kind of fell through the cracks.
You just got a sweater in the mail from your Aunt Lucille...but you haven't gotten her anything.
Well, here's a way you can save face, and for free!
Restaurant.com is hosting its fourth year of $10 dining gift certificate giveaways in its Feed It Forward program.
And it's all free.
Follow the jump to find out how it works.
Continue reading Free $10 gift certificates for everyone on your list from Restaurant.com.
Farrell's is back ... Inland Empire residents with fond memories of the ice cream parlor's heyday will feel like they've traveled back in time at the Rancho Cucamonga restaurant, which opened its doors Friday.
The kitchen is still working out some kinks (rethink your choice if you are looking for a "quick" meal or have an appointment to keep) but the food is just as family-friendly as this Farrell's fan remembers.
There's something for everyone -- club sandwiches, burgers, deep-fried mozzarella and, oh yeah, ice cream! The Pig's Trough, Zoo, Gibson Girl and more are scooped up by the restaurant's energetic and friendly staff manning the ice cream bar, which greets patrons as they enter Farrell's. The old-time candy store, sirens, drums and Route 66-inspired decor add to the fun.
Farrell's took over the former Romano's Macaroni Grill building in the Terra Vista Center Shopping Center, 10742 Foothill Blvd., Rancho Cucamonga; 909-989-8777; www.farrellsusa.com.
The kitchen is still working out some kinks (rethink your choice if you are looking for a "quick" meal or have an appointment to keep) but the food is just as family-friendly as this Farrell's fan remembers.
There's something for everyone -- club sandwiches, burgers, deep-fried mozzarella and, oh yeah, ice cream! The Pig's Trough, Zoo, Gibson Girl and more are scooped up by the restaurant's energetic and friendly staff manning the ice cream bar, which greets patrons as they enter Farrell's. The old-time candy store, sirens, drums and Route 66-inspired decor add to the fun.
Farrell's took over the former Romano's Macaroni Grill building in the Terra Vista Center Shopping Center, 10742 Foothill Blvd., Rancho Cucamonga; 909-989-8777; www.farrellsusa.com.
If you've ever wanted to pick up a Zagat guide, but had second thoughts because of the price ($15-$16), now's your chance to get one up for cheap.
It's one of the current Google offers for only $7. That's a whole $8 or $9 you can put toward your night out!
You can choose from the 2012 Los Angeles restaurants guide (which actually includes some Inland Empire restaurants, usually accompanied by "See review in Los Angeles Directory").
You can also choose America's Top Restaurants (no Inland Empire restaurants here) or any of seven other city guides, including San Francisco, New York City and Chicago.
The guides make a great gift for the foodie in your life.
I've already got mine, thanks!
As of the time of this post, the deal is on for another couple of days, but quantities are limited. Click here to purchase or for more information.
It's one of the current Google offers for only $7. That's a whole $8 or $9 you can put toward your night out!
You can choose from the 2012 Los Angeles restaurants guide (which actually includes some Inland Empire restaurants, usually accompanied by "See review in Los Angeles Directory").
You can also choose America's Top Restaurants (no Inland Empire restaurants here) or any of seven other city guides, including San Francisco, New York City and Chicago.
The guides make a great gift for the foodie in your life.
I've already got mine, thanks!
As of the time of this post, the deal is on for another couple of days, but quantities are limited. Click here to purchase or for more information.
Intrepid reporter Liset Márquez braved the Farrell's fanatics to cover the grand opening of the new Farrell's Ice Cream Parlour in Rancho Cucamonga this morning.
They are even staying open until 11 p.m. daily for the next couple of weeks to accommodate guests, so if you want to beat the crowds, you might try...Farrell's After Dark.
You can read her article (and see a small photo gallery) here.
You can read her article (and see a small photo gallery) here.
So, you've been invited to a holiday party and you've been wracking your brain trying to think of what to bring to share.
Well, Ontario native Charles Phoenix has come to your rescue!
Say hello (and goodbye!) to Frosty the Cheeseball Man!
Frosty's been making the Internet rounds this holiday season and now he's landed here.
Follow the jump to watch the video...it's bound to bring a little holiday cheer!
Well, Ontario native Charles Phoenix has come to your rescue!
Say hello (and goodbye!) to Frosty the Cheeseball Man!
Frosty's been making the Internet rounds this holiday season and now he's landed here.
Follow the jump to watch the video...it's bound to bring a little holiday cheer!
Continue reading If it's good enough for Pee-wee, it's good enough for Dine 909.
Regular readers of this blog know how we geek out when it comes to the Coca-Cola Freestyle 100-plus flavor soda fountains.
We've driven to Orange County to experience it when it was first available.
We wrote about the first Freestyles being installed in the Inland Empire.
We've mentioned new locations as we discover them.
On Tuesday, Coca-Cola announced that Burger King will roll out Freestyle machines to its company-owned restaurants nationwide.
Wow.
That's more than 850 restaurants, according to an article from Nation's Restaurant News. Burger King already has already installed about 120 machines.
That makes them the third (and largest) chain to announce chain-wide rollouts, following Firehouse Subs (which are not in the Inland Empire) and Five Guys Burgers and Fries (the Redlands, Mira Loma and Moreno Valley locations have one).
We've driven to Orange County to experience it when it was first available.
We wrote about the first Freestyles being installed in the Inland Empire.
We've mentioned new locations as we discover them.
On Tuesday, Coca-Cola announced that Burger King will roll out Freestyle machines to its company-owned restaurants nationwide.
Wow.
That's more than 850 restaurants, according to an article from Nation's Restaurant News. Burger King already has already installed about 120 machines.
That makes them the third (and largest) chain to announce chain-wide rollouts, following Firehouse Subs (which are not in the Inland Empire) and Five Guys Burgers and Fries (the Redlands, Mira Loma and Moreno Valley locations have one).
Continue reading Burger King will let you have it 100-plus ways with Coca-Cola Freestyle.
Downtown Rialto's Patio West Deli is a current deal of the day from Amazon Local.
The deal is $10 worth of food and drink for only $5.
At the time of this post, you've only got about 10 hours to take advantage of the deal.
You're allowed to purchase up to two vouchers, but can only use them one at a time, and you've got to use the entire $10 in one fell swoop.
Your purchase price ($5) will never expire, however the bonus $5 will expire on April 9, 2012. The vouchers will be valid beginning tomorrow.
To purchase, follow this link.
The deal is $10 worth of food and drink for only $5.
At the time of this post, you've only got about 10 hours to take advantage of the deal.
You're allowed to purchase up to two vouchers, but can only use them one at a time, and you've got to use the entire $10 in one fell swoop.
Your purchase price ($5) will never expire, however the bonus $5 will expire on April 9, 2012. The vouchers will be valid beginning tomorrow.
To purchase, follow this link.
My Delight Cupcakery, 1520 N. Mountain Ave., Ontario, has turned 2 and is throwing a party.Everyone is invited.
The event will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday (December 13).
Leading up to the party, they are collecting new books and toys (valued at least $10) through Monday (December 12) for donation to Upland-based Steven's Hope for Children. Those who donate will receive a free cupcake.
Donors will also be entered into a drawing for prizes (including $100 cash) during the birthday bash.
As the bakery has done for previous events, this one will include participation by food trucks, this time from Grill 'Em All and the Grilled Cheese Truck.
The event also will include giveaways, a balloon artist, photography by Anapaul and music by DJ Mike Styles.
Do me a favor...save me a snickerdoodle!
Southern California Subway shops (yes, that includes the Inland Empire) are offering a pair of six-inch subs for only $2 each this month.
Customers have their choice of either a Cold Cut Combo or a Meatball Marinara sandwich at that special price.
The offer is good through December 31.
Customers have their choice of either a Cold Cut Combo or a Meatball Marinara sandwich at that special price.
The offer is good through December 31.
Oh, boy! One of the most anticipated restaurant openings is happening Friday (December 9).
The Rancho Cucamonga Farrell's Ice Cream Parlour opens at 11 a.m.
The fondly remembered restaurant makes its long-awaited return to the Inland Empire in a space that previously held a Romano's Macaroni Grill, at 10742 Foothill Blvd.
Leading up to Friday's grand opening, the chain held a free dinner tonight for active military, veterans and their families, the 70th anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor, and will host a free lunch on Thursday for VIPs and newsletter contest winners.
The chain formerly had Inland Empire locations in Montclair and Riverside.
Will you brave the crowds to be there for the opening? Let us know below.
The Rancho Cucamonga Farrell's Ice Cream Parlour opens at 11 a.m.
The fondly remembered restaurant makes its long-awaited return to the Inland Empire in a space that previously held a Romano's Macaroni Grill, at 10742 Foothill Blvd.
Leading up to Friday's grand opening, the chain held a free dinner tonight for active military, veterans and their families, the 70th anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor, and will host a free lunch on Thursday for VIPs and newsletter contest winners.
The chain formerly had Inland Empire locations in Montclair and Riverside.
Will you brave the crowds to be there for the opening? Let us know below.
Construction went fast and furious on the new downtown San Bernardino In-N-Out Burger at 795 W. 5th St., at H Street.
So fast, in fact, that the old location at 190 Bungalow Court, off Second Street, will shut down tonight and the new location will open in the morning.
The new location, as the old one, will open at 10:30 a.m. daily, and close at 1 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and 1:30 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays.
The new location includes inside seating.
So fast, in fact, that the old location at 190 Bungalow Court, off Second Street, will shut down tonight and the new location will open in the morning.
The new location, as the old one, will open at 10:30 a.m. daily, and close at 1 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and 1:30 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays.
The new location includes inside seating.
The soon-to-open Farrell's Ice Cream Parlour in Rancho Cucamonga is going all out in honoring 400 local active military and veterans (and their families) today (December 7), the 70th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.
The honorees will get free dinners and ice cream on Farrell's (and a preview of the new restaurant before everyone else). Patriotic songs will be performed.
In addition, the chain has partnered with the non-profit groups Heroes and Patriots and A Million Thanks bring military personnel to the event and will raise money for those organizations during its pre-opening celebrations.
Also, all military personnel will receive a bundle of 500 thank you letters collected from around the country by A Million Thanks.
The event will take place beginning at 6 p.m. tonight at the new Farrell's, 10742 Foothill Blvd., Rancho Cucamonga.
The honorees will get free dinners and ice cream on Farrell's (and a preview of the new restaurant before everyone else). Patriotic songs will be performed.
In addition, the chain has partnered with the non-profit groups Heroes and Patriots and A Million Thanks bring military personnel to the event and will raise money for those organizations during its pre-opening celebrations.
Also, all military personnel will receive a bundle of 500 thank you letters collected from around the country by A Million Thanks.
The event will take place beginning at 6 p.m. tonight at the new Farrell's, 10742 Foothill Blvd., Rancho Cucamonga.
Baker's Drive-Thru has been very generous with freebies for its Facebook fans (and others).
Occasionally, the chain will extend its generosity over several days, as it did a couple of months ago with its Cool Creations, giving a different flavor away each day.
This week, Baker's is doing it again, this time with its Café Selections line of hot beverages.
Monday's free item was a free cappuccino.
Today's (December 6) free item is a latte. To get your coupon, click here for the Facebook event page.
As always, you can either print the coupon, or simply display it on your mobile device. One per customer or per car. Each coupon will be good for one day only.
Baker's Drive-Thru locations can be found throughout the Inland Empire.
Updated:Wednesday's free item is a Chocolate Abuelita. Click here for the Facebook event page. Thursday's coupon is for a free Mokalita. Click here for the Facebook event page. Friday's freebie is a Nescafe Clasico. The Facebook event page is here. The final coupon (for Saturday) is for a Cafe de Olla. Click here for the Facebook post and coupon link.
Occasionally, the chain will extend its generosity over several days, as it did a couple of months ago with its Cool Creations, giving a different flavor away each day.
This week, Baker's is doing it again, this time with its Café Selections line of hot beverages.
Monday's free item was a free cappuccino.
As always, you can either print the coupon, or simply display it on your mobile device. One per customer or per car. Each coupon will be good for one day only.
Baker's Drive-Thru locations can be found throughout the Inland Empire.
Updated:
In a promotion for its new Sweet Jim Beam Bacon Swiss Burger, participating Red Robin locations will be giving them away tomorrow (December 6).
(It's a pretty tasty burger...I happened to have one just the other night.)
There's a catch...your first name has to be Jim.
Or Jimmy.
Or Jamie.
Or pretty much any derivative of the name James.
So, all you Jimis and Jimbos have to do is show up at a participating Red Robin between 11 a.m. and 11 p.m. tomorrow, present your valid I.D., and get your free burger. (You'll have to buy your own fries and beverage...what do you want for free?)
Inland Empire Red Robin locations include Redlands, Chino, Rancho Cucamonga, Victorville, Apple Valley, Corona, Menifee, Hemet, Temecula, Rancho Mirage and La Quinta.
For more information, click here for the Facebook event page.
(It's a pretty tasty burger...I happened to have one just the other night.)
There's a catch...your first name has to be Jim.
Or Jimmy.
Or Jamie.
Or pretty much any derivative of the name James.
So, all you Jimis and Jimbos have to do is show up at a participating Red Robin between 11 a.m. and 11 p.m. tomorrow, present your valid I.D., and get your free burger. (You'll have to buy your own fries and beverage...what do you want for free?)
Inland Empire Red Robin locations include Redlands, Chino, Rancho Cucamonga, Victorville, Apple Valley, Corona, Menifee, Hemet, Temecula, Rancho Mirage and La Quinta.
For more information, click here for the Facebook event page.
The old-school Denny's at 510 W. Orange Show Road has been shuttered.
Apparently it's been closed for weeks. I just noticed this weekend.
It's a shame. That particular location, despite being a little rough around the edges, was the one I went to most often.
That leaves San Bernardino with "only" three Denny's: Highland Avenue (at Valencia Avenue), Palm Avenue (at I-215) and Rosewood Drive (off Tippecanoe Avenue).
Guess I'll have to find another location for my Moons Over My Hammy fix.
Apparently it's been closed for weeks. I just noticed this weekend.
It's a shame. That particular location, despite being a little rough around the edges, was the one I went to most often.
That leaves San Bernardino with "only" three Denny's: Highland Avenue (at Valencia Avenue), Palm Avenue (at I-215) and Rosewood Drive (off Tippecanoe Avenue).
Guess I'll have to find another location for my Moons Over My Hammy fix.
The third release in Hangar 24 Craft Brewery's Barrel Roll limited-edition beers -- Pugachev's Cobra -- will be available for pre-sale beginning at 4 p.m. Wednesday (December 7).The beer, which follows Immelmann and Humpty Bump in the series, will be available for pick-up beginning Saturday, December 10.
Just in time for Christmas...hint, hint!
Pugachev's Cobra is a Russian Imperial Stout, aged for eight months in freshly emptied bourbon barrels.
The pre-sale event will take at the brewery, 1710 Sessums Drive, Redlands.
It's the largest release in the series, with an approximate 3,500 750mL bottles being produced, nearly double the number of bottles of Humpty Bump produced.
To make Wednesday's pre-sale event more interesting, the brewery will be offering a few special beers that afternoon:
- 4 p.m.: Non barrel-aged Pugachev's Cobra; Small Stout (made from Pugachev's 2nd runnings); and Polycot
- 5 p.m.: Humpty Bump (from a couple of reserved cases)
- 6 p.m.: Immelmann (from a couple of reserved cases)
If you aren't able to make the pre-sale event on Wednesday, a limited number of bottles will also be available for sale beginning at 11 a.m. December 10. Pugachev's Cobra will also be available at select retailers.
For more information, click here for the pre-sale Facebook event page.
So, according to this post from Wendy Leung's RC Now blog, Farrell's Ice Cream Parlour is tentatively set to open on Tuesday (December 6).
I'm guessing that's just a shade optimistic.
The latest from the chain's Facebook page indicates that they will make an announcement next week.
In the meantime, you can sneak a peek of the restaurant's interior in some shots they took during a crew training session and posted on Facebook.
Either way, I'm guessing it's just a few more days until you can get your Gibson Girl fix!
I'm guessing that's just a shade optimistic.
The latest from the chain's Facebook page indicates that they will make an announcement next week.
In the meantime, you can sneak a peek of the restaurant's interior in some shots they took during a crew training session and posted on Facebook.
Either way, I'm guessing it's just a few more days until you can get your Gibson Girl fix!
So, ever wanted to be a "whiskey girl"?
Well, now's your chance!
The long, long, long-awaited Toby Keith's I ♥ This Bar & Grill is having a job fair from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. tomorrow (December 3).
The event was originally slated to be at the restaurant in Victoria Gardens, but was moved (due to an overwhelming response) to the Four Points by Sheraton, 11960 Foothill Blvd., Rancho Cucamonga.
Applicants can click here to print and fill out an application in advance.
They're hoping to open the eatery before the end of the year.
Toby Keith's I ♥ This Bar & Grill is at 12635 North Main St., Rancho Cucamonga.
For more information, click here to visit the restaurant's Facebook page.
Good luck!
Well, now's your chance!
The long, long, long-awaited Toby Keith's I ♥ This Bar & Grill is having a job fair from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. tomorrow (December 3).
The event was originally slated to be at the restaurant in Victoria Gardens, but was moved (due to an overwhelming response) to the Four Points by Sheraton, 11960 Foothill Blvd., Rancho Cucamonga.
Applicants can click here to print and fill out an application in advance.
They're hoping to open the eatery before the end of the year.
Toby Keith's I ♥ This Bar & Grill is at 12635 North Main St., Rancho Cucamonga.
For more information, click here to visit the restaurant's Facebook page.
Good luck!
For those of you who might have missed it on Monday's business page, Rancho Cucamonga reporter (and Dine 909 contributor) Wendy Leung wrote about the expansion of Juanita's into Rancho Cucamonga.
The popular Mexican restaurant began in Pomona in 1976, and served only red pork burritos and shredded beef tacos.
The restaurant eventually expanded (along with the menu) to include a second location in Ontario.
The new location expands the menu even further by adding French fries and chili verde fries to the mix.
The Rancho Cucamonga Juanita's is at 9651 Base Line, at Archibald Avenue, formerly a Taco Bell.
Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Click here to read Wendy's story.
The popular Mexican restaurant began in Pomona in 1976, and served only red pork burritos and shredded beef tacos.
The restaurant eventually expanded (along with the menu) to include a second location in Ontario.
The new location expands the menu even further by adding French fries and chili verde fries to the mix.
The Rancho Cucamonga Juanita's is at 9651 Base Line, at Archibald Avenue, formerly a Taco Bell.
Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Click here to read Wendy's story.
Way back in February, we happened to spot a little tidbit in a real estate transactions press release that let us know that Corky's Kitchen and Bakery was opening a third location (after Rancho Cucamonga and Rialto).
Initially, they had projected a fall opening, but I don't think they're quite going to make it.
However, they are gearing up to open and are having a job fair this weekend and Wednesday and Friday of next week.
They are hiring for all positions.
Follow the jump for the schedule.
Initially, they had projected a fall opening, but I don't think they're quite going to make it.
However, they are gearing up to open and are having a job fair this weekend and Wednesday and Friday of next week.
They are hiring for all positions.
Follow the jump for the schedule.
Continue reading Corky's Kitchen and Bakery hiring for Eastvale location.
Ra Pour restaurant and lounge, the amazing new Vegas-style eatery and nightlife venue in Rancho Cucamonga's Victoria Gardens, has announced that it will begin its brunch service Sunday and its lunch service on Monday.
Brunch will be served 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays. Brunch items include churros con chocolate, jalapeño-spiced Dungeness crab salad, cinnamon brioche French toast, Kobe top sirloin steak and eggs, and duck confit hash.
Lunch will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Items include fried chicken Cobb salad, duck Bolognese, lobster roll, and Cuban sandwich.
Several items, including a variety of wood-fired pizzas, chicken and waffles, chipotle braised short rib and cola brined pork, are available for both lunch and brunch.
Hungry yet?
Click here for the complete brunch menu. For a complete lunch menu, click here.
Ra Pour is at 7900 Kew Avenue, Suite 5410, in Rancho Cucamonga.
Brunch will be served 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays. Brunch items include churros con chocolate, jalapeño-spiced Dungeness crab salad, cinnamon brioche French toast, Kobe top sirloin steak and eggs, and duck confit hash.
Lunch will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Items include fried chicken Cobb salad, duck Bolognese, lobster roll, and Cuban sandwich.
Several items, including a variety of wood-fired pizzas, chicken and waffles, chipotle braised short rib and cola brined pork, are available for both lunch and brunch.
Hungry yet?
Click here for the complete brunch menu. For a complete lunch menu, click here.
Ra Pour is at 7900 Kew Avenue, Suite 5410, in Rancho Cucamonga.
The Assistance League of the Foothill Communities will be selling See's Candy as a fundraiser for the organization.
Sales will take place from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. December 8 to 23 and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on December 24.
Sales will be the group's headquarters at 8593 Archibald Ave., Rancho Cucamonga. Parking is in the rear.
For information, please call 909-484-1215.
The Assistance League of the Foothill Communities is a volunteer nonprofit organization dedicated to the needs of children.
Sales will take place from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. December 8 to 23 and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on December 24.
Sales will be the group's headquarters at 8593 Archibald Ave., Rancho Cucamonga. Parking is in the rear.
For information, please call 909-484-1215.
The Assistance League of the Foothill Communities is a volunteer nonprofit organization dedicated to the needs of children.
Staffer (and future Dine 909 contributor?) Jessica Keating spotted a new bakery opening soon in downtown Redlands.
Muffin Top Bakery is projecting to open either the first or second week of December at 223 E. State St., Suite A, right near McDuff's.
The name rang a bell with me and then I discovered their original location is at 1735 Spruce St., Suite J, Riverside, in the same center as Best Thai Cuisine, which I tried for the first time at the end of October.
Reviews on Yelp are very positive.
For more info, click here.
Muffin Top Bakery is projecting to open either the first or second week of December at 223 E. State St., Suite A, right near McDuff's.
The name rang a bell with me and then I discovered their original location is at 1735 Spruce St., Suite J, Riverside, in the same center as Best Thai Cuisine, which I tried for the first time at the end of October.
Reviews on Yelp are very positive.
For more info, click here.
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Fine and not-so-fine dining in the Inland Empire.
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