The Challenge & Thrill of Competitive Vaulting Reimagine the Magnificent Cantor Arts Museum SPIRIT OF THE PENINSULA piquant MAY 24 Bliss and Beauty Tomales Bay Beckons Arya Steakhouse Personality & Sizzle Downtown Palo Alto The Happening Place PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM
BUILDING A BETTER WAY
CA License #836236 We are builders who also use science to create extraordinary homes that are energy-efficient, lower maintenance, and healthier for our clients and their families. Building a Better Way is also how we run our company, focusing on exceptional client care and being an active participant in improving the lives of the people we work with and for every day. EarthBoundHome.com | 408.244.5392
Beautiful Gardens | Custom Stonework Quality Woodworking | Pool & Spa 408.772.8337 LifescapeWeb.com
Landscapes for Living “Working with Lifescape was seamless. We’re constantly astounded at its transformation from a typical suburban backyard to an absolute oasis.” - Megan Blitzer LIC 913269 | Licensed, Insured & Bonded
CUSTOM BUILT GLASS
CUSTOM BUILT GLASS CA LIC #987354
EXPERIENCE EVERYDAY LUXURY. it’s time to renew. LICENSE B479799 This primary bathroom is the perfect fusion of luxury and practicality. Heated floors, pocket doors, and modern finishes combine seamlessly to create an elevated elegance. Whether it’s a rejuvenating morning ritual or a tranquil evening unwind, this space provides a sanctuary for everyday moments of pampering and relaxation.
Renewal is at the center of every home remodeling dream. It makes everything fresh, exciting, and wide-open for possibilities again. It’s how we re-invent not only our homes, but our lives, and become our best selves. Let’s take this journey together. 650.230.2900 HarrellDesignBuild.com It’s Time to Renew.
12 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM 43 {punchline} Peninsula Culture 29 Guiding the Museum 36 Perfect Shot 38 Diary of a Dog: Cashew {due west} Travel & Wellness 43 Blissful Tomales Bay 60 Downtown Discoveries IN EVERY ISSUE 16 Editor’s Note 18 Sloane Citron 21 QuickPUNCH PHOTOGRAPHY: PAULETTE PHLIPOT / COURTESY OF DALLAS SMITH -BLUE WATER KAYAKAKING / COURTESY OF BRAD KNIPSTEIN PHOTOGRAPHY / ANNIE BARNETT 74 29 {food coloring} Eats, Drinks & Scoops 69 Meat and Greet 74 Groovin’ to the Grind 80 The Beat on Your Eats {home & design} Style and Substance 83 Modern Merger 90 Craveable Kitchens {punchout} Features 100 Equine Acrobatics {landmark} 106 De Sabla Teahouse {may 2024} contents 83 COVER: PHOTOGRAPHY BY REMY ANTHES - HOG ISLAND OYSTER CO. (PAGE 43)
311 Lorton Ave (at Burlingame Ave) Burlingame, CA 94010 I tel: 650 235 9775 www.andranorrisgallery.com Diana Tremaine, ‘Synergy’, oil on canvas, 60 x 60 inches, 2017-2024 “There is no secret so close as that between a rider and his horse.” — Robert Smith Surtees DIANA TREMAINE ART EXHIBITIONS AND SALES OF INVESTMENT QUALITY CONTEMPORARY ART FROM INTERNATIONAL, ESTABLISHED ARTISTS WITH CALIFORNIA TIES
14 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM “Never put off till tomorrow what you can do the day after tomorrow.” —MARK TWAIN FOUNDER/PUBLISHER Sloane Citron EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Andrea Gemmet CREATIVE DIRECTOR Britt Johnston SENIOR EDITOR Johanna Harlow CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Sheri Baer COPY EDITOR Carrie Lightner PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTORS Annie Barnett Paulette Phlipot PHOTOGRAPHERS Gino De Grandis Robb Most Irene Searles Robert David Siegel WRI TERS Jennifer Jory Loureen Murphy Sheryl Nonnenberg SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Dylan Lanier ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERS Sally Randall Georgina Fox SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jane Jerome CREATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR Airiel Mulvaney ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Alexa Randall PRINT QUALITY DIRECTOR George Marquez PUNCH is an idea about how to live a life that is more engaging and authentic, from personal adventures, growth and what we feed our bodies and souls to the culture that fulfills us and the traditions and new discoveries offered by the Peninsula. It is about appreciating and exploring the richness of where we live and how that understanding can enhance our lives and make them more fulfilling and happy. PUNCH MAGAZINE ADVERTISING Please call 650.383.3636 or email hello@punchmonthly.com PUBLISHED 1047 El Camino Real, Suite 202 Menlo Park, CA 94025 ©2024 by 36 Media, LLC Members Sloane Citron, David Arfin hello@punchmonthly.com punchmagazine.com PUNCH® is a registered trademark of 36 Media, LLC FOLLOW PUNCH: @punchmonthly PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM FOR EVERYTHING PUNCH, COMPLETE CALENDAR, INSIDE SCOOPS & MORE: punchmagazine.com
AlysGraceMP alysgracebayarea A L Y S G R A C E . C O M MENLO PARK 899B SANTA CRUZ AVE SAN FRANCISCO 3490 SACRAMENTO ST LOS ALTOS 208 MAIN ST SAN RAMON 6000 BOLLINGER CANYON RD AG DENIM AGOLDE ALEXA LEIGH AMO DENIM APIECE APART APOTHEKE ATM AUTUMN CASHMERE B. BELTS CABALLERO CHAN LUU CIRCOLO 1901 CITIZENS OF HUMANITY CLARE V. COLLABORATION COSABELLA COTES OF LONDON D.A.T.E. SNEAKERS EMMA ROSE FRAME FRANK & EILEEN G1 HARRIS WHARF LONDON ILLESTEVA JUMPER 1234 K. JACQUES KAI FRAGRANCE KATHY KAMEI MARISA MASON MASONʼS MICHAEL STARS MOTHER MOUSSY NAADAM NATION NEST FRAGRANCES NEVER A WALLFLOWER NILI LOTAN ONE GREY DAY REPEAT CASHMERE ROYAL NOMAD SAVE THE DUCK SEA NEW YORK SHE.RISE SMYTHE ST. ROCHE STATESIDE SUNDRY THE GREAT TROVATA ULLA JOHNSON VELVET VOYAGE ET CIE WHITE + WARREN XIRENA
16 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM grandmother hadn’t been a volunteer docent, would her granddaughter still have grown up to lead Stanford University’s prestigious museum? (Page 29) What if a friend had never given Tian Mayimin some of her mother’s century-old sourdough starter? Would something else have triggered the passion for bread-making that Tian turned into Little Sky Bakery? (Page 24) For Nathan and Siera Conte, the young couple behind Groovy Goose coffee shop in San Carlos, it was a series of coffee dates that cemented a partnership in life and in business. (Page 74) You’re probably familiar with horseback riding and with gymnastics, but have you ever met one of the daredevil athletes who combine the two and compete in the sport known as vaulting? You have to wonder what sparked that initial idea to transfer a handstand from the stable surfaces in a gym to a precarious perch on the back of a moving horse. Woodside Vaulters’ Hanna Parker shows us what it takes to combine athleticism and artistry with equestrian skills in this month’s feature story. (Page 100) You’ll also meet the vivacious duo behind Arya Steakhouse (Page 69), hear how a couple who found love after losing their spouses created a new home in spectacular fashion (Page 83) and get a sneak peek at six amazing kitchens on this month’s annual SolMateo tour (Page 90). For vacation inspiration, explore breathtaking Tomales Bay on a memorable weekend getaway. (Page 43) Closer to home, rediscover downtown Palo Alto by getting off the main drag and strolling along its side streets. (Page 60) Dig into this, our 70th issue, and find something to spark your own passions! Andrea Gemmet andrea@punchmonthly.com {editor’s note} backyard. Even as an adult, I still plunge headfirst into books and have to be dragged back out, blinking, into the everyday world, counting the minutes until I can dive back in. As a child, nothing was safe. If it had words on it, I was going to read it, from newspapers and dictionaries to scholarly art history tomes on my parents’ bookshelves. Mom and dad would laughingly remember reprimanding me for a misdeed, only to be told that, according to one of their parenting books I’d found, it was “just a phase” and perfectly normal for a child my age. (I think that may have inspired them to keep a closer eye on what I was reading.) Thanks to what I’d learned of the world through all those books, I was pretty sure that “reading for a living” wasn’t a real job, but like many bibliophiles, I harbored a childish ambition to become a writer myself. I found a way to translate my passion for the written word into a career when I signed up for a high school journalism class. Telling stories, using language both precise and concise, held immediate appeal. As an inveterate procrastinator, the constant deadline pressure did wonders for my productivity and focus. And best of all, it required me to constantly learn new things, through interviews, background research and lots and lots of reading. Now that my daughter’s in college and exploring which one of her passions will guide her direction in life, I’ve been thinking about how those sparks of interest get ignited. So many of them fizzle out, but those precious few that land at exactly the right moment, take hold and burn brightly, can lead us somewhere unexpected and wonderful. You’ll find traces of those sparks on the pages of this month’s issue of PUNCH, where you’ll meet Veronica Roberts, the director of the Cantor Arts Center. If Veronica’s beloved One of the things I love about the storytelling we do at PUNCH is getting to know people who are passionate about what they do. Sometimes following your passion is a no-brainer—just ask any video game-loving kid who is now making a living as a game-tester. But it requires a lot of creativity and drive to leverage a passion into a profession. In this month’s issue, you’ll meet people who turned a zeal for great coffee into a small business, a love for museums into a career and a newfound interest for baking bread into a popular bakery. For me, that all-consuming interest has always been reading. Ever since I was very young, I’ve loved to read, anywhere, any time: after bedtime by the weak glow of my nightlight, the backseat of the car, the sidelines of my brother’s soccer games, perched on a tree branch in the
STAPRANSDESIGN.COM 650.851.8436
18 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {sloane citron} built one large one. In that room was the little rocking chair, and the same nightstand between their beds that had separated Danny’s and my beds. And underneath that same nightstand—reminiscent of our 1960s-bedroom set-up—was the slightly beat-up cowboy trash can. I appreciated the resemblance of the room to that of my childhood, even if my sons did not. I thought having my children at home would be a forever thing, but I was wrong—I guess happily. My boys grew up, moved away and have their own homes—their old room empty and longing. By then, the trashcan had grown a bit wearier, with more rust and more dents after another generation of Citron boys had abused it, whether as a basket for a ball game or from an accidental kicking. One day, after the boys were long gone—though their room stayed exactly the same—I looked at the poor little trash can, and the cowboy seemed sad. Two generations had given him much enjoyment, and now he was just a lonely old ranch hand. I decided that he needed a new home. And while the nightstand and rocking chair are now in my grandson Evan’s room, I moved the trashcan to my study. And there the slightly rusty, dented, old (vintage, now?) trashcan sits, chipped paint and all, in a prominent spot where I can see it whenever I’m in the room. With many grandchildren running through my study and with me spending a fair amount of time there, I’m happy to report that the cowboy’s spirits have been lifted considerably, his smile has broadened, and he seems ready for some new western adventures. When I was three years old, my parents moved me from the small room next to their downstairs bedroom to our upstairs. There I shared a rather large room with my brother who was five years older. Danny, being a sweet, kind boy (and a sweet, kind man today) welcomed me into his room without a moment’s hesitation. In our large Southern-style home in Amarillo, Texas, the upstairs was the province of us children, with two large bedrooms with walk-in closets, a spacious play area and a bathroom for us all to share. Our older sister Shelley had her own room, and Danny and I had the other. The three of us got along as well then as we do now: in sincere harmony. I, of course, did drive my brother crazy at times, like when he was napping on the playroom couch, and I shot a small cap gun into his ear and scared him half to death. I remember with some clarity Danny chasing me through our home before tackling me and calling me some inhospitable names. Remarkably, he never threw a punch, which he rightly deserved to do. Sharing the bathroom was never an issue, partly because Danny and I spent as little time in there as possible. We had to be yelled at by our father to take a shower and we did not spend much time brushing our teeth or hair. Shelley had the bathroom mostly to herself and the drawers were filled with girl stuff. I suppose that made her glad that I wasn’t a girl though I’m sure she had hoped differently when I was born. Our room had two beds, with carefully matching bedspreads, separated by a small wooden nightstand. Alongside the far wall were two dressers, one cabinet and a desk, all matching. Near the beds was a chaise lounge, perfect for tossing our clothes and other belongings. Next to the foot of my bed was a child’s rocking chair that stayed in place long after I’d outgrown it. Three windows brought in plenty of light and provided great views of our neighborhood. Underneath the small nightstand was a trash can. Oval, made of metal, it featured a cowboy riding his horse with his six-shooter pulled and ready for action. Behind him were mountains, clouds, yellow turf and a red band at the bottom with western icons. My brother and I managed to preserve most of the items in that bedroom. Dan has most of the dressers and cabinets, while the small rocking chair and the nightstand ended up with me, along with the trash can, which long ago started showing its age with some rust here and a dent there. As it just so happens, my boys were not so different from Danny and me. When my son Josh, seven years older than his brother Coby, had the choice to have his own room in the home we were building, he asked if he could share it with his brother. So instead of two small bedrooms, we the cowboy on the can
RIGGSSHOWROOM.COM 101 Henry Adams St., G144 San Francisco, CA 94103 415-582-6717 Preferred by noted designers like Candace Cavanaugh, Sub-Zero, Wolf and Cove appliances showcase iconic style with elevated taste. Visit our showroom to experience a higher standard. ALWAYS IN STYLE.
PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM 21 MAY 2024 + 31 DAYS + GETTING WARMER + OUR 70TH ISSUE {quickpunch} Start Up + Somewhere, a mother needs your phone call and your love on May 12. + Time for that annual funky run at the eccentric SF Bay to Breakers on May 19. + Straight from the movies, the full Flower Moon debuts on May 23. + Skip the sales and honor Memorial Day in a meaningful way on May 27. Venture Out + FOLLOW the parade winding down University Avenue to Heritage Park on May 4, where Palo Alto’s May Fete & Fair turns 100 with food trucks, booths and school bands. + DISCOVER how the magic happens by touring the work spaces of painters, woodworkers, photographers, jewelers and sculptors at Silicon Valley Open Studios on weekends throughout May. + GATHER at the Eucalyptus Grove for the Stanford Powwow, with indigenous drumming and dancing competitions May 10-12—and go all in by camping overnight on campus. May is busy deciding whether it wants to warm up or stay cool. We’re starting to think about putting on shorts and sandals, going to the beach or sitting by the pool. Usually, we start to think this a little prematurely, since it takes our part of the world a bit longer to get good and hot. Summer vacations are on our minds. Where shall we go? Luxury or adventure? Is this the year we stay nearby or plan a big exotic trip? Getting out of the house and visiting other places, especially someplace new, is cathartic—our minds opened, our bodies enriched and our lives enhanced. “May is the month of promise and the sweet beginnings of summer.” —Unknown welcome back
22 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {quickpunch} Dash to Dine + FLEA STREET—Seasonal California cuisine since 1980, now showing a new exhibition of photography by Irene Searles—3607 Alameda de las Pulgas, Menlo Park + MACARTHUR PARK—American eatery known for its barbecue ribs and comfort food since 1981—27 University Avenue, Palo Alto + MEZZA LUNA RESTAURANT—Authentic southern Italian dishes since 1994—459 Prospect Way, Half Moon Bay Carpe Diem + WELCOME the new baby goats at Pescadero’s Harley Farms—then drop by the shop to pick out cheeses made fresh on-site for your picnic by the pond. + TREK through Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve’s 15 miles of trails along sloughs and marshland. It’s a major migratory stopover on the Pacific Flyway, so keep an eye out for snowy egrets, meadowlarks, avocets and a flurry of other feathered friends. Outwitting History: The Amazing Adventures of a Man Who Rescued a Million Yiddish Books by Aaron Lansky—An incredible tale for anyone who loves books and literature. Tom Lake by Ann Patchett— A rich tapestry of a novel reminding us that our parents had whole lives before we came along. Fine Gardening—Great insights to help you plan your spring and summer plantings. finegardening.com WHO KNEW? Dana Carvey, the master impressionist and funny man who helped resurrect Saturday Night Live in the late 1980s, grew up in San Carlos where he attended Tierra Linda Middle School and Carlmont High School in Belmont. Later, he attended College of San Mateo before earning a bachelor’s degree in broadcast communications from SF State. Though he was a funny guy in high school, he was an even better runner, competing in cross-country at the Central Coast Section Championship. Well Read Unscramble A O N C R T S A R T E E T N R C Finally, some half-baked advice: If you don’t know where your kids are in the house, turn off the internet and watch them magically appear.
550 KINGSLEY AVE PALO ALTO 6 BEDS | 4 FULL BATHS | 3,964 SF LIVING | 10,000 SF LOT 550KINGSLEY.COM | OFFERED AT $7,698,000 Craftsman-style stunner oozing charm and character on a beautiful tree-lined street in coveted Professorville. Formal entry and gorgeous common areas ideal for entertaining with beamed ceilings, bay windows, wainscoting, high ceilings, and hardwood floors. Stunning great room, adjacent to the media/game room, opens to Chef’s kitchen with oversized island and high-end stainless steel appliances. Large glass sliders and skylights flood the interior with natural light and open to the lovely red brick patio with a pergola and built-in heaters. The expansive rear yard includes a fresh new lawn, an adorable potting shed, and a majestic redwood tree. Ample storage throughout, including in the partial basement. Excellent public schools: Walter Hays Elementary, Greene Middle, Palo Alto High. The information contained herein has been obtained from third party sources deemed reliable but its accuracy is not guaranteed. Christie’s International Real Estate Sereno has not and will not verify the information and assumes no responsibility for its accuracy. Buyer should verify and investigate all information to Buyer’s satisfaction and investigate all information to Buyer’s satisfaction. brianchancellor.com | 650.303.5511 brianc@sereno.com | DRE 01174998 SERENO
24 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {quickpunch} What inspired you to start baking bread? I got a starter from a friend’s mom and just started to play with it. I found myself baking so much bread each day, I started to show up on neighbors’ doorsteps with these warm loaves. I was so excited to share them! Tell us about the first recipe you mastered. Braided challah. I created a naturally-leavened version of my husband’s grandfather’s family recipe. Your best advice for someone who wants to get into baking? Think about the key factors: time, temperature and proportion. What were your school lunches like as a kid? I hated my awkwardly-packed homemade sandwiches and always craved the strange cafeteria foods—especially the bright- yellow pizza. Now I know better! What piece of advice would you give to your younger self? Relax and have a good time. It really only gets harder from here. Is there a movie you can watch over and over? Almost any action movie. I think I’ve watched Olympus Has Fallen more than three times. Are there any cooking shows that you love to watch? Julia & Jacques Cooking at Home. Though I also find watching cooking shows a little nerve-wracking because it makes me think about work. THE Q & A TIAN MAYIMIN What is your most cherished possession? The picture of my daughter just after she was born. Is there a dish that reminds you of childhood? Baozi—wonderful buns stuffed with meat or vegetables. My family would make what seemed like hundreds of them for Chinese New Year each winter. This is what inspired me to create the stuffed buns we make at Little Sky. What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever eaten? Fried larvae while traveling in the wilds of southwestern China. What is the dumbest way you’ve been hurt? I walked into one of the granite columns outside the bakery. Do you collect anything? Baking books! Which ones do you treasure the most? Chad Robertson’s Tartine Bread and Flo Braker’s Baking for All Occasions. What’s your favorite thing to bring home from Little Sky? For me, it’s the raisin walnut bread. For my family, it’s the roasted or fried chicken (new at Little Sky Kitchen) and definitely the lox sandwiches—my husband and son are lox fiends. How do you recharge your batteries after a long day? Watching TV on the couch with my kids jumping around. The baker/owner behind farmers market-favorite Little Sky Bakery and the new Little Sky Kitchen cafe in Menlo Park discusses school lunches, family favorites and the sourdough starter that started it all.
a modern vitamin infusion & aesthetics practice Our customized iv vitamin infusions and medical grade skincare treatments optimize your health and natural beauty so you can feel your best inside and out. 650. 514. 5985 | www.sancarlosivbar.com 977 Laurel Street, San Carlos, CA 94070
ALMENDRAL 138 ATHE RTON 5 BEDS 8 BATHS 8,412 SQ. FT. .95 ACRE LOT Price Upon Request 650.862.3266 DRE 01343603 BILLY MCNAIR 138ALMENDRAL.COM CUSTOM BUILT ESTATE
BILLY MCNAIRGROUP.COM MARYMONT 2 ATHE RTON 6 BEDS 8.5 BATHS 9,130 SQ. FT. .98 ACRE LOT Offered at: $14,800,000 2MARYMONT.COM TIMELESS SOPHISTICATION
naturepedic.com
ART guiding the museum words by SHERYL NONNENBERG • photography by ANNIE BARNETT PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM 29 {punchline} PENINSULA CULTURE
30 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {punchline} Sometimes, your passion takes you far from home, only to bring you right back to where it all started. For Veronica Roberts, a career as a museum curator sent her crisscrossing the country before leading her back to an institution that has always occupied a special place in her heart. Now the director of the Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University, this Bay Area native couldn’t be happier to have come full circle. Born in San Francisco, Veronica reveled in the city’s vibrant art scene, especially at the Legion of Honor and De Young museums. “I have an early memory during middle school of getting dressed up in my Esprit clothing and visiting a show of Amish quilts,” she shares with a smile. By high school, she knew that in college she wanted to study art history. That decision was largely influenced by her grandmother, who lived on the Peninsula and served as a lifelong docent at the Cantor Arts Center. Veronica speaks of her with great fondness, recognizing the impact she had. “She had a great love of learning; when she was active here, she audited over 45 classes!” Veronica marvels. “I am incredibly proud that I followed an interest she had.” She admits that leaving California to attend Williams College in Massachusetts was difficult but ultimately life-changing. Its prestigious art history program has been a springboard for many high-level curators and museum directors. While there, Veronica realized that her career path had to include not only curating but also education. “My passion is sharing art with a wider audience and making it accessible and alive.” Finding that she missed California, Veronica opted to return for graduate studies at the University of California, Santa
Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01866771. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate. Agents—not algorithms. Visit us at: granoskiweil.com DRE 00994196 In real estate, realtionships are as important as market knowledge and expertise. When you’re ready to make a move, rely on our insights as well as our strong repuation, broker and community ties. When it comes to local real estate, we’ve seen and covered it all... COMBINED YEARS EXPERIENCE 50+ RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE SALES $2B+ RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS 600+
32 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {punchline} about applying to the Cantor when she heard of its vacancy. Why leave the fast-paced, creative role of curator for the heavily administrative responsibilities as the John and Jill Freidenrich Director of the Cantor Arts Center? Veronica laughs and admits the job can be “kind of like playing Whac-a-Mole, solving problems all day long.” She is quick to point out, however, “If you care about the ecosystem of the museum, and culture and art, it is essential that they be well-run.” She feels that her role is really “to see the bigger picture and have a vision that will inspire the staff.” The Cantor, like many museums, is coming back from a difficult few years of pandemic isolation and staff departures. Veronica has made it a priority to address the “lean staff” by hiring a completely new leadership team. Although several more key positions need to be filled, she believes that the museum has “reset” and is on the right track for the future. Barbara. At the time, she had three living grandparents nearby, all in their nineties. “One of the best things about grad school was the time I got to spend with my grandparents,” she says. Pursuing a career as a curator requires the flexibility to relocate, so Veronica returned to the East Coast to work her way up from temp at the Whitney Museum of American Art to curatorial assistant at the Museum of Modern Art in New York—then out west as curator of modern and contemporary art at the Blanton Museum of Art at the University of Texas. During her tenure at the Blanton, Veronica oversaw major projects like the reinstallation of the museum’s contemporary collection while also curating nationally touring exhibitions, including Nina Katchadourian: Curiouser and Day Jobs, which is currently on view at the Cantor. Though fulfilling, she didn’t think twice
34 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {punchline} lectually curious campus and community,” she says, adding, “We probably get a request to partner on a project every day— even from faculty in the sciences.” Veronica sees it as an indication of the university’s emphasis on integrating the arts into every field of study. “People are true humanists here,” she notes. Returning to the Bay Area after many years away has provided a chance to rediscover the artistic hotspots of her childhood and explore new ones. “There is an incredible richness here,” Veronica observes, citing San Francisco visual arts organizations like Creativity Explored, Southern Exposure and the Minnesota Street Project. Does she feel like she has come full circle? “I definitely do! It’s so crazy to be at an institution that my grandmother loved so deeply. I feel her presence here every day.” Veronica reflects that her grandmother, who had a college degree, didn’t have the same kinds of opportunity her granddaughter enjoys: directing a prestigious university art museum. “I feel very lucky to be here.” No stranger to university museum politics, Veronica is very familiar with the “bureaucrazy” that comes with the job. But she also points out a key advantage to this setting: free admission. “University museums can take more risks and we can choose shows not based on the gate,” she says of not having to worry about ticket sales. “We have this very lucky freedom.” Another advantage, she points out, is working with the college-aged demographic. “This is a thrilling age, when you are figuring out who you are and your place in the universe. Museums are a place for critical thinking and seeing other perspectives.” Veronica also hopes that the museum can be a place of healing, acknowledging the rise of mental health issues among young adults in recent years. “Yes, art has always reflected societal changes, but how can the museum also be a place of joy, serenity and connection?” One thing that has surprised her after two years on the job is the amount of interest that Stanford faculty and staff have expressed in working with the museum. “This is such an intelon display museum.stanford.edu v
© Thomas Kuoh Photography www.marblecompany.com 415.657.0280 Brisbane 925.829.1133 Dublin 916.387.0481 Sacramento MARBLE | GRANITE | ONYX | QUARTZITE | PORCELAIN | PENTAL QUARTZ | SOAPSTONE | SEMI-PRECIOUS STONE Instagram Inspiration IRG + DOLOMITES Double beauty by Casey Howard Design: Michelangelo Dolomite and Donatello Dolomite.
36 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {punchline} PERFECT SHOT peek-a-boo petals Behind the austere gray columns, a riot of spring color awaits. PUNCH’s Gino de Grandis offers this atypical view of Woodside’s Filoli estate, where the lush landscape’s vibrant daffodils and tulips take a backseat to the historic property’s stately architectural elements. Gino says that rainy or overcast days are his favorite times to explore Filoli, “as it allows the strong saturation of colors to come through” in his photos. Image by Gino de Grandis / luiphotography.com
PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM 37 calling all shutterbugs If you’ve captured a unique perspective of the Peninsula, we’d love to see your Perfect Shot. Email us at hello@punchmonthly.com to be considered for publication.
38 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {punchline} calling all dogs If you’ve got quirky habits or a funny tale (or tail) to tell, email hello@punchmonthly.com for a chance to share a page from your Diary of a Dog in PUNCH. cashew DIARY OF A DOG photography by ROBB MOST since I was about four months old, when they rescued me from a not-so-nice start in life that left me anxious and afraid of strangers. Going on two years later, we all agree that I’m thriving. Meg says I am one of the smartest and quickest dogs she’s ever taught, and as a professional dog trainer, she’s something of an authority on the subject. I’m so good that she posts training videos starring me on Instagram and TikTok (@k9_Cashew). I love learning new skills, whether it’s tricks, obedience or agility training. Meg takes me with her to work, where I like to boss around my great big friend, a 50-pound pit bull-terrier mix. I guess you could say I wear the pants in that relationship. My secret weakness is noses—I just love them so much! Let me near your nose and I will cover it in doggy kisses until you make me stop. Well, hello there! I see you’re admiring my outfit. My name’s Cashew and I like to think that I’m the best-dressed dog in Belmont. As a Chihuahua mix, it might be hard to spot me among the bigger pups if I wasn’t sporting a fashionable ensemble. My extensive wardrobe really helps me stand out. I’ve lived with Meg and Sam
©️2024 Intero, a Berkshire Hathaway Affiliate and wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc. All rights reserved. The logo is a registered trademark of Intero Real Estate Services, Inc. Square footage has been received from one or more sources. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. If important to buyer(s) they should conduct their own verification investigation. Monica Hanover Realtor® | DRE# 02221560 650.660.0594 mhanover@intero.com Keyko Pintz Realtor® | DRE# 02011298 650.224.9815 kpintz@intero.com Hummingbird Homes PRESENTED BY Exquisite stained-glass sidelights frame the entry of this beautiful traditional home and create a sense of timeless charm. Inside, the spacious living area boasts cathedral beamed ceilings adorned with rich, warm wood accents, creating a cozy ambiance around the fireplace. With two generously sized bedrooms, a bath, and a detached garage, comfort and convenience await. Seamlessly merging indoor and outdoor living, the bright and expansive kitchen features high ceilings, an island with counter seating, and a built-in window seat, perfect for a quiet read or casual dining. Outside, a majestic tree helps create a woodland oasis, while the expansive brick patio sets the stage for memorable gatherings. Impeccable landscaping, in both the front and back yards, enhance the home’s curb appeal. Located near Stanford and major thoroughfares, with access to renowned Menlo Park schools, this home offers both an idyllic retreat and a fabulous location. With approximately 1,120 square feet of living space and a lot of 5,650 square feet, this is a lovely place to call home. 261STANFORD.COM Enchanting Home on a Premier West Menlo Park Street 261 STANFORD AVENUE | MENLO PARK
Monica Hanover Realtor® | DRE# 02221560 650.660.0594 mhanover@intero.com Keyko Pintz Realtor® | DRE# 02011298 650.224.9815 kpintz@intero.com 228 PRINCETON ROAD | MENLO PARK Making ALLIED ARTS the Best Place to Call Home. Hummingbird Homes PRESENTED BY
©️ 2024 Intero, a Berkshire Hathaway Affiliate and wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc. All rights reserved. The logo is a registered trademark of Intero Real Estate Services, Inc. Square footage has been received from one or more sources. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. If important to buyer(s) they should conduct their own verification investigation. EXPERIENCE LUXURY AND SOPHISTICATION at this contemporary masterpiece in coveted Allied Arts. Meticulously crafted with sleek, well-defined lines and angles, this home embodies quintessential modernism at its finest. Step through the unique pivot steel front door and have clear views into a breathtaking courtyard, seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor living. Designed for effortless entertaining and relaxation, the home boasts radiant heat throughout the French oak honed floors. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows and folding glass doors fill the entire home with natural light. Two concrete fireplaces (one inside and one outside) provide a refined European feel. Custom rift oak cabinetry in the gourmet kitchen, continues throughout the home. The primary suite boasts a Juliette balcony with panoramic views and a bath with a luxurious Victoria and Albert freestanding soaking tub. With four bedrooms and three full baths, this home effortlessly combines elegance and functionality. Maintained to perfection, this one-of-a-kind residence offers a rare opportunity to own a truly exceptional property. The epitome of modern living right around the corner from the Allied Arts Guild and Stanford University. Menlo Park schools and close to both Menlo Park and Palo Alto downtown. OFFERED AT $5,800,000 | 228PRINCETON.COM
shop all women’s and home 24/7 at www.afterwards.com for home ... for her ... for less 1159 EL CAMINO REAL - MENLO PARK, CA 94025 650-324-2377 @afterwardsconsignment @afterwardsconsignment by oering the finest consigned items in home furnishings, decorative accents, and artwork... as well as women’s designer-label clothing and accessories… for less. By choosing resale over new, you join us in our eco-conscious mission to oer luxury items at aordable prices, reducing waste, and promoting a more sustainable future.
PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM 43 GETAWAY blissful tomales bay {due west} words by SHERI BAER TRAVEL & WELLNESS PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF REMY ANTHES - HOG ISLAND OYSTER CO.
44 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF BRIAN FERRY / COURTESY OF LODGE AT MARCONI {due west} Driving north through Marshall on Highway 1 in West Marin, it’s easy to overshoot the “blink and you’ll miss it” turnoff. With the splendor of Tomales Bay unfolding on the left, the modest Marconi Conference Center sign on the right hardly merits a glance. But traverse the winding uphill road and you’ll discover an idyllic setting with a storied and, at one point, controversial past. Recently transformed into an upscale coastal retreat, the Lodge at Marconi offers stand-alone respite and the perfect home base for exploring the region’s timeless beauty.
PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM 45 sinking of the Titanic, the British postmaster general was quoted as saying, “Those who have been saved, have been saved through one man, Mr. Marconi… and his marvelous invention.”) During World War I, the military appropriated Marconi’s transmitters. In the early 1960s, a rehab facility known as Synanon took over the site. Morphing into an infamous cult, Synanon eventually collapsed amid scandal and bankruptcy. The state claimed ownership in the MARCONI PAST AND PRESENT Today, visitors flock to coastal West Marin for sweeping views— along with famously fresh air and fresh oysters—but back in the early 20th century, Italian inventor and engineer Guglielmo Marconi discerned a different appeal: the optimal conditions for long-distance radio signal transmission. Credited as the “father of radio,” Marconi developed the historic Marshall Trans-Pacific receiving station here, along with a majestic hotel for staff and visitors. (Interesting side note: after the 1912 1980s, turning the property into Marconi Historic State Park. Now, tucked within the park’s 62 scenic acres sits the newest incarnation: Lodge at Marconi, which opened to guests in late 2023 after an extensive multi-million dollar renovation. Seamlessly entwined with the wooded hillscape, the Lodge is actually a collection of free-standing structures encompassing 45 guest rooms and suites, with a range of layouts suitable for couples, families, corporate travelers and groups. Here, nature abounds—outside PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF BRIAN FERRY
46 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM and in—with 3.5 miles of hiking trails and cohesive design elements inspired by the surrounding vistas. Whether you’re lounging in an Adirondack chair or meeting up for a game of cornhole, Lodge at Marconi presents like a destination in itself. Here’s the bonus: You’re also a quick hop down the hill to West Marin’s many iconic attractions. OUTDOOR PLAYLAND Measuring about 15 miles long and a mile across, Tomales Bay divides mainland Marin from the Point Reyes Peninsula. To immerse yourself in this scenic inlet, just push off from shore. {due west} “Tomales Bay was formed by plate tectonics from the San Andreas fault line,” explains Blue Water Kayaking guide Lori Budish, as she leads a half-day tour from Miller Boat Launch, a short stretch up Highway 1. Paddling towards Point Reyes National Seashore, countless points of interest catch the eye. Hog Island. Pierce Point Ranch. Tomales Point Trail. Tule elk grazing on the hillside. Harbor seals lazing up on the beach. Skimming along the rugged shoreline unveils green sea anemones, bat stars and clams shooting up water from under the mud. And everywhere, birds. “Point Reyes probably has more migratory birds than any other national park in the U.S.,” notes Lori. “And about 45 percent of all California birds can be spotted here.” Blue Water also offers fullday and evening bioluminescence tours, along with kayak rentals. Given that you’re at the gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore, even a short getaway merits a trip to Point Reyes Lighthouse, appropriately dubbed the windiest place on the Pacific Coast. Every bend in the road and crest of a hill reveals bucolic scenery and dramatic seascapes. From the parking lot, the final half-mile by foot delivers jaw-dropping views of Point Reyes South Beach and the feeling that you’ve reached the end of the world. If the beach beckons, try Heart’s Desire or Limantour for sandy expanses you can reach by car. In recent years, Drakes Beach experienced an unexpected surge in popularity—with a northern elephant seal colony. The beach is now off-limits but PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF DALLAS SMITH - BLUE WATER KAYAKING
Chateau a les Nuage A Castle in the Clouds GARY CAMPI | CAMPI GROUP Family Real Estate For Over Four Decades For everything real estate, visit Campi.com gary@campi.com | 650.917.2433 Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated | Lic. # 00600311 Just Listed in Los Gatos | French Normandy Architecture with Breathtaking Vistas | 6,200 sq ft, 6 Car Garage & Private ADU 16383AztecRidge.com
48 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF DENISE ROCCO-ZILBER-HEIDRUN MEADERY / COURTESY OF WOOL + SON - STATION HOUSE CAFE / COURTESY OF REMY ANTHES - HOG ISLAND OYSTER CO. {due west} god Odin’s mead-producing goat) is the only commercial meadery using true Champagne methods to create sparkling mead—appreciably different from any dubious home brews you may have sampled in the past. FRESH SEAFOOD AND MORE Whether you’re relaxing or roaming about, you’ll find a slew of tantalizing options within easy reach. Lodge at Marconi currently offers a coffee bar and grab-andgo market with plans for onsite dining in the works. Heading north on Highway 1, pull over for The Marshall Store, a more-thanone-visit-worthy seafood shack perched right over the bay. Just a stretch farther, Nick’s Cove is a go-to spot for coastal classics. Heading south, meander through charming Point Reyes Station with a stop at Station House Café, a standout farm-to-table gathering place celebrating 60 years. And in Olema, drop by Due West Tavern and Market, with the added perk of a Tesla supercharger station. Abundant fresh seafood and scenery is an enticing mix, so look for better deals—and fewer folks on the road—off-season or weekdays. But you can always explore Lodge at Marconi’s forested acres or a secluded trail or beach to find blissful escape year-round. you can catch the wildly entertaining show from the parking lot. Other good viewing spots include the Elephant Seal Overlook near Chimney Rock and the South Beach Overlook. Given Tomales Bay’s ideal conditions for cultivating and harvesting shellfish, it’s not surprising that the most famous critter here is arguably a mollusk. Book a tour of Hog Island Oyster Farm to explore the fascinating journey from oyster seed to your plate. Follow breathe deeply lodgeatmarconi.com visitmarin.org up with a bite at The Boat Oyster Bar or get take-out from the Hog Shack to put all the shucking and tasting tips into action. For another tour and tasting opportunity, get ye to Heidrun Meadery. Known as “nectar of the gods” to ancient Greeks, this fabled wine uses honey as its main ferment. “It’s easy to make but it’s hard to make well,” acknowledges Michael Zilber, as he pours from bottles labeled California Orange Blossom and Hawaiian Macadamia Nut. Founded in 1997, Heidrun (named for Norse
Heavenly Nearby Bliss PHOTOGRAPHY: PAUL DYER ALONG THE GENTLY rolling sand dunes on the Monterey Bay is the best kept secret in nearby Santa Cruz County. Here you’ll find Pajaro Dunes Resort, a beautiful community of shoreline vacation homes. With its dazzling white sand beaches and natural habitats, you’ll never want to leave this heavenly sanctuary near the Pacific. Pajaro Dunes is a resort like no other. The quiet, laid-back community is a unique oasis for relaxation and inspiration, perfect for intimate celebrations and reunions. Offering a variety of accommodations, from barefoot luxury to surfer casual, their ocean side vacation homes, townhouses and condominiums are all fully furnished, and all designed to preserve the beauty and integrity of this oceanfront paradise. A wildlife lover’s dream, Pajaro Dunes is nestled between the protected waters of the Monterey Bay Natural Marine Sanctuary and the wetlands of Watsonville Slough. Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the Mission at San Juan Bautista, Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey or a day of fun at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Schedule time for wine tasting at the many wonderful wineries found along the Monterey Bay Coast. And don’t miss tennis, biking, and beach volleyball right at Pajaro Dunes Resort, plus some of Northern California’s premier golf courses. Pajaro Dunes, with its spectacular beauty, incredible opportunities for rest and activity, and dazzling array of exceptional accommodations, is the perfect place to capture your inner joy. PAJARO DUNES RESORT [ staycations ] Vacation like you live here. Escape to the serene shores of Monterey Bay with our exclusive beachfront vacation rentals. The perfect seaside retreat in a gated beach community. Quick drive from the Bay Area! Perfect for family vacations, romantic getaways, or solo retreats. Book your dream beach house today and experience coastal living at its finest! Choose from a curated collection of properties that offer the comfort of home with the luxury of beachside living. Wake up to the sound of waves, enjoy breathtaking sunsets, and relax in a space that caters to your every need. Enjoy personalized care from our on site guest services teams. We’re saving a sunset for you! (800) 564-1771 www.PajaroDunes.com
A NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED, LOCAL REALTY COMPANY. David Oliphant FOUNDER Karina Ballantyne Alice Karsevar Scott Benson Mishelle Westendorf Lucy Gillies Mark Weisbarth TOP 1.5% RANKED OF ALL REALTORS NATIONALLY 2023 2021 � 2022 � 2023 THIRD YEAR IN A ROW
OceanBlueRE.com (650) 713-5544 643 MAIN STREET HALF MOON BAY locally owned, service driven, community focused, nationally recognized. Ocean Blue is part of a national network of over 700 boutique brands of top professional agents DRE #02014153 Ocean Blue Real Estate is thrilled to share that we’ve made RealTrends’ list of America’s Best Real Estate Professionals for the third year in a row. We are extremely honored and grateful to be named among the top 1.5% of agents in the entire country out of 1.6 million agents. Ocean Blue Real Estate endeavors to be a different kind of firm. Focusing on exceptional client services and local market expertise, we are a team of top agents working tirelessly for our clients and our community. By giving back to local non-profits and charities, we keep more money here in our community then any other real estate brand, bar none REAL ESTATE Judy Stanton Anne Craggs Crawford Jerome Brolan Wendy Jensen Arthur Ward Chris Loeswick Brian Ely
52 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM Featuring Jazz Greats, 50 California Wineries, Local Cuisine and More! Saturday, June 1, NOON-5PM PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF KEVIN HENNEY / COURTESY OF GULNARA KHAMATOVA-KEDAR A PUNCH PROMOTION THE HALF MOON BAY DOWNTOWN ASSOCIATION PRESENTS The Third Annual Half Moon Bay Wine & Jazz Festival Join in the festivities as the Half Moon Bay Wine & Jazz Festival returns for its third year on Saturday, June 1, from Noon to 5PM. Two new events make their debut this year, notes event coordinator Colleen Henney: a Friday night supper club-style show and a post-festival Saturday Sunset Swing. Wine and music lovers can groove along to performances by nationally-known jazz artists, taste from a wide selection of California wineries and enjoy delicious local cuisine as well as a craft beer and cider garden. PERFORMANCES BY LEADING LOCAL JAZZ ARTISTS Headlining the main stage are world-class jazz musicians: piano prodigy Jahari Stampley, vocalist Dr. Kim Nalley and saxophonist Howard Wiley. This exceptional lineup was curated by Marcus Shelby, the legendary jazz musician, composer, band leader and educator. The festival’s artist-in-residence, tap dancer Michela Marino Lerman, and Ayo Brame, an up-and-coming teen saxophonist, will also play the main stage. More local jazz bands will perform at intersections along downtown Half Moon Bay’s charming Main Street.
54 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM OUTSTANDING CALIFORNIA WINES Wine enthusiasts will have the opportunity to sample varietals from 50 renowned winemakers representing California regions Napa Valley, Sonoma, Mendocino, Lodi, Santa Cruz Mountains, Livermore, Paso Robles and more. With general admission, you’ll get a commemorative wine glass and tasting tickets— then you’ll be free to explore the many winemakers. If you find something you love, bottles will be available for sale. COASTSIDE CUISINE, CRAFT BEERS & CIDERS A multitude of top-notch food trucks and specialty vendors will be serving delicious local fare. Fresh seafood, barbeque and much more will be available for purchase, along with a variety of craft beers and ciders from 10 Bay Area breweries and cideries. PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF KEVIN HENNEY HMB WINE & JAZZ FESTIVAL SPONSORS SIGNATURE SPONSORS Half Moon Bay Winery City of Half Moon Bay The Ritz Carlton COMMUNITY PARTNERS Barterra Winery Jupiter & Main Ocean Blue Real Estate PUNCH Magazine Republic Services Sam’s Chowder House San Benito House SUPPORTERS Half Moon Bay Coastside Chamber of Commerce Half Moon Bay Wine & Cheese Garden Deli It’s Italia Cameron’s Pub Cruzio Internet SFJazz A PUNCH PROMOTION 3P WINE CO. • ADOBE ROAD WINERY • AMADOR CELLARS • AMBYTH ESTATE • AVINODOS WINES • BALDACCI FAMILY VINEYARDS • BOCCE BALL WINE • BURSINI VINEYARDS • CAELESTA • CAIRJN WINE CELLARS • CALIZA WINERY • CASS WINERY • CASTO OAKS WINE • CLOS DE LA TECH • E16 WINERY • ELAINE WINES • EMMALILY VINEYARDS • HALF MOON BAY WINERY • HENDRY • HIGH CAMP WINES • HOPE FAMILY WINES • INTENT WINES • KALEIDOS • MATCHBOOK WINERY • MCPRICE MYERS • MID•POINT WINERY • MUSCARDINI CELLARS • NEAL FAMILY VINEYARDS • ONX WINES • PASOSECCO • PEACHY CANYON WINERY • PELTIER WINERY • RAMEY WINE CELLARS • ROCK BOUND CELLARS • ROMEO VINEYARDS & CELLARS • SALVESTRIN WINERY • STARFIELD VINEYARDS • STILSON CELLARS • TRUCHARD VINEYARDS • ULTIMA TULIE • WENTE VINEYARDS • WOLFE HEIGHTS ESTATE AND WINERY • ZANOLI WINES • ZIALENA WINERY • ZOBÉTO WINES
56 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM NEW: CELEBRATING ‘HARLEM OF THE WEST’ On Friday night, May 31, join in the celebration of “Harlem of the West” at a supper club show that pays tribute to San Francisco’s famed Fillmore District, an epicenter for jazz in the 1940s and ‘50s. Featuring Kenny Washington, the Marcus Shelby Quintet, Michela Marino Lerman, vocalist Chloe Jean, poet Enid Picket and historian Lewis Watts, it includes a delicious three-course culinary experience at Pasta Moon. Two seatings are available at 5:30PM and 8PM. NEW: SATURDAY SUNSET SWING After the main event, come to the Saturday Sunset Swing featuring Grammynominated Lavay Smith and Her Red Hot Skillet Lickers at Half Moon Bay’s historic San Benito House on Main Street at 6PM on June 1. PURCHASE TICKETS Tickets to the Half Moon Bay Wine & Jazz Festival events can be purchased at hmbwineandjazzfest.com. Main event wine tasting tickets are $75 and come with a commemorative tasting glass. “Harlem of West” dinner and show are $175. Saturday Sunset Swing tickets are $60. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Cabrillo Education Foundation to support arts students. A PUNCH PROMOTION PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF KEVIN HENNEY / COURTESY OF KIM NALLEY
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTcxMjMwNg==