Nevada County Mead Company is one of the few places in the Capital Region that produces and serves mead, which the ancient Greeks called “nectar of the gods.”

From Japanese, omakase translates roughly to “I leave it up to you.” It is a covenant in which the diner cedes all decision-making power to the chef.

The Benicia Historical Museum houses tens of thousands of artifacts related to multiple wars and the Gold Rush era, providing a place for visitors to learn something new and appreciate the story of California.

These days, Lake Tahoe’s south shore has enough breweries for a full tasting tour, giving explorers more reason to drive into the mountains.

After several years of work by Wilton Rancheria, the tribe’s casino operator Boyd Gaming, and local leaders, Sky River is finally up and running.

The store has delighted visitors through several generations while also featuring a wide selection of greeting cards, puzzles, candy, gifts and houseware items. Having an internet presence has helped them return to pre-pandemic sales numbers.

Lodi-based, family-owned Calivirgin has reshaped its business. Part of California’s rich olive oil landscape for almost two decades, its new facility allows the owners to showcase award-winning products, introduce a new wine line and host tastings.

Rosebud’s is known for authenticity and acceptance as much as for good food, and is a leader on several local issues involving homelessness and LGBTQ rights.

After the three-year pandemic hiatus, Our Street has grown into a tightly choreographed event that brings in visitors as far afield as the Bay Area. We asked Yellow Brick Group co-owner Shawn Kahan for his post-event takeaways.

Frank Sullivan’s mining legacy is as rich as Auburn’s, and is reflected in his timeless shop, Pioneer Mining Supplies.