Here's a few ideas on how to hang out with your Dad on Father's Day.
No need to brave the crowds for Father's Day. Head to your local butcher, grab some meat and have an at-home celebration in your own backyard.
Belcampo Meat Co., Palo Alto
Have a hankering for rib-eye, pork belly, tri-tip, short ribs, oyster steak or, perhaps, some Boston butt? Check out the well-stocked, endlessly marbled meat options in the butcher case at Belcampo Meat Co. at Town & Country Village in Palo Alto.
Dittmer's Gourmet Meats & Wurst Haus, Los Altos
This old-fashioned butcher shop has it all: more than 40 types of homemade sausages, smoked meats, specialty meats, goose fat, pickles, sauerkraut, smoked salmon and more.
Schaub's Meat Fish & Poultry, Palo Alto
Customers rave about "Fred's Steak," Schaub's "secret recipe" marinated tri-tip, and sandwiches made on the premises. Schaub's also sells fresh fish, poultry, lamb, more than 20 varieties of house-made sausages, duck, smoked salmon, and specialty items such as rabbit and buffalo, venison, pheasant, squab, quail and goose, when available.
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Are fancy dinners not really Dad's thing? Try celebrating Dad's "Big Freaking Day" with a free B.F.D. (Burger for Dad) of his very own. The Counter aims to challenge the traditional patty and bun with build-your-own burgers that include topping options spanning from alfalfa sprouts and avocado for veggie-loving dads; to applewood smoked bacon and fresh jalapeños for something with a bit more bite. The Counter is serving up a free burger for dads on Father's Day with an accompanying paying guest, from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. at any Bay Area locations.
By Anissa Fritz
Holidays, like Father's Day and Mother's Day, are often a challenge considering that no amount of money can accurately thank the two main contributors to your existence. To take some of the pressure off, the Weekly has found five gift possibilities from local shops to help aid in the hunt for the perfect Father's Day gift.
"The New Father"
"The New Father" is a book for, you guessed it, new dads. Inside is a guide to the first year of a child's development, with research, humor and wisdom sprinkled throughout. It can be found at Books Inc. at Town & Country Village in Palo Alto for $13.95. According to the store's staff, this book is one of the best sellers at the store for fathers. Books Inc. has a whole table dedicated to books for dads as well as a rack of Father's Day cards.
Flying Vectosphere R/C Drone
Also located in Town & Country Village in Palo Alto is Ambassador Toys, which is where the Flying Vectosphere R/C Drone can be found. The remote-controlled device has four-way directional flight. Store employees said this drone is popular among dads because of its sleek and more adult look. The Vectosphere can be bought for $39.99 and makes a fun gift for new dads who are still kids at heart.
Mio Fuse
Mio Fuse is an activity tracker that can be purchased at On Your Mark in downtown Los Altos for $140. Although it is on the pricier side of Father's Day gift options, this gadget is a suitable choice for new fathers who want to stay in -- or get back into -- shape since the birth of their child. Mio Fuse doesn't require a chest strap to be worn while working out, and it connects to your smartphone through Bluetooth, making it easy to use and accessible for all ages.
Foot Rubz
New dads who are on their feet all day at work or while taking care of their offspring would highly benefit from Foot Rubz. The product provides release and relaxation to the tired muscles of the feet and even hands. It can also be found at On Your Mark with a very reasonable price tag of $8.
Catan
The most popular item purchased at Gray Matters on California Avenue in Palo Alto for dads this season is the strategy board game Catan. A store employee said it is a good choice for fathers because of its ability to bring friends and family together. The game requires cunning and attention to detail, making for a competitive and educational experience. It is sold at Gray Matters for $48.99.
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For the ultimate pre-Father's Day experience that Dad will never forget, try making a reservation at Ambience Los Altos. Featured in Open Table's "Top 100 Restaurant's in America" list, the restaurant's executive chef, Morgan Song, provides guests with an exclusive 12- to 14-course chef's tasting menu ranging from Monterey black cod, Maine lobster tail, elk tenderloin, and finalized with fromager Charlotte. Ambience is open 5-9 p.m. for dinner on Saturday, June 18. Please allow 2 to 3 hours for dinner service. Visit Open Table or call for reservations.
Whether the father in your life enjoys cooking or not, chances are he enjoys eating. Spoil your Dad this Father's Day with a juicy Sirloin, old-school burger and a cold brew at one of these local eateries.
Armadillo Willy's, Los Altos
The outside of the meat is a darkened, almost black hue, the moisture making it glisten in the light. The rib is still hot from the wood-fired pit, and not a drop of sauce has touched it. For more than 30 years, Armadillo Willy's has served Texas-style barbecue like this to customers in the Bay Area.
Clarke's Charcoal Broiler, Mountain View
Clarke's has been a local hot spot for burgers since 1945. Fresh off the grill and cooked over charcoal, Clarke's burgers have continued to earn raves from the local community, along with other popular offerings, including sweet potato fries and onion rings.
Dan Gordon's, Palo Alto
German, and now American beers, plus barbecue made in a 750-pound smoker are the main events at the relatively new Dan Gordon's in downtown Palo Alto — the revamped version of longtime beer haven Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant.
Fleming's Steakhouse, Palo Alto
Everything is mega at Fleming's Prime Steakhouse: mega portions, mega utensils, mega decor, mega wine list, mega cocktail menu, mega service. Prices, too.
Gott's Roadside, Palo Alto
Gott's burgers feature Niman Ranch vegetarian-fed Angus beef, Diestel Family Turkey Ranch turkey patties, veggie burgers, even an ahi tuna burger. Beyond the bun, Gott's offers tacos, salads, chicken dishes, all kinds of fries, soups and thick milkshakes.
Kirk's Steakburgers, Palo Alto
Kirk's is the real deal. Since opening in 1948, Kirk's burgers have been pleasing, dense and juicy.
LB Steak, Menlo Park
Go big or go home at LB Steak in Menlo Park, where diners have their choice of certified Angus beef steaks (including a 20-ounce bone-in cowboy steak), as well as Australian lamb chops, a rack of pork ribs, half-pound burger and more. On Father's Day, LB Steak also will be serving a special "Sunday Prime Rib" meal ($37) that includes a salad, a 12-ounce cut of certified Angus beef prime rib, a loaded baked potato with au jus and artisanal ice cream.
Pampas, Palo Alto
At Pampas Brazilian Churrascuria, go in for the show, the rodizio, featuring servers called passadors wielding tall skewers of hot meat.
Steins Beer Garden, Mountain View
Steins is reminiscent of beer halls in Europe with its vaulted ceiling, festive atmosphere and first-class eats. Enjoy 31 craft and import beers from around the world and American comfort food outside on the large patio.
Sundance the Steakhouse, Palo Alto
After more than two decades of business in Palo Alto, this classic American steakhouse on El Camino Real is still serving top-notch food with attentive service, an excellent wine list and decor that exudes old-school charm.
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A brunch for Mom can properly be described as "delightful" or "special." A brunch for Dad, you better just call it a BBQ. That's what Chef Francis Ramirez at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Palo Alto set out to do for this Father's Day — create a brunch menu with "manly food." The BBQ brunch for Dads (and Grads) will be served from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 19. Call 650-628-0145 for reservations.
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Don't be fooled, men love a day at the spa, too. Treat Dad to an afternoon getting pampered at Watercourse Way, Palo Alto's premier day spa for over 35 years. Schedule a deep-tissue or hot stone massage with private hot tub or sauna. Give Dad a gift card or schedule an appointment. Open from 8 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. on Father's Day.
By Ian Malone
Gifts can be loved and appreciated, but memories are often treasured for years to come. On Father's Day, share an experience to remember with your Dad by making use of the gorgeous environment of the Peninsula and local events with music, activities and plenty of opportunities for bonding.
Hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding at Rancho San Antonio
For a scenic Father's Day trip, head to Rancho San Antonio Preserve in Los Altos. Enjoy over 24 miles of trails covering over 4,000 acres for biking, hiking or horseback riding, and experience beautiful views of the Bay Area from the peaks of Black Mountain or Monte Bello Ridge. The park also is home to historical turn-of-the-century ranch buildings.
Palo Alto Golf Course
Located near the Baylands just off of U.S. Highway 101, the Palo Alto Golf Course is one of the area's top destinations for golfing. With 18 holes at a par 67, as well as a driving range and putting area, this course is sure to please any golf-loving dad. In addition to the course itself, Palo Alto Golf Course features other amenities such as a golf shop and a full-service restaurant and bar.
Shoreline Lake Summer Sailstice
For a Father's Day on the water, check out Shoreline Lake's summer sailing event. In addition to free sailboat rides for kids, the lake is offering free introductory sailing lessons for dads (with purchase of a sailing package).
Summer Scamper
This event would be a great choice for an active Dad. Held every year, this 5K/10K race benefits the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford. In addition to the 5k and 10k runs, there are shorter races for kids ages 3 to 10, as well as a festival with food, music and wellness exhibitions.
Palo Alto World Music Day
A cultural option for a Father's Day outing would be Palo Alto World Music Day. The annual event set in downtown Palo Alto will feature over 50 musicians and musical groups performing a variety of genres from all around the world.
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Dad, that is! Visit Sam's Chowder House and Oyster Bar in Palo Alto and treat Dad to a delicious lobster clambake with clams, mussels, andouille sausage, coleslaw and more. Or try the Father's Day special of smoked spare ribs with roasted potatoes and grilled asparagus. Top it off with warm chocolate cake, vanilla ice cream and huckleberry sauce for dessert. The whole family will enjoy Sam's new "al fresco" dining – with bi-fold doors that open out onto University Avenue. Kids menu, vegetarian and gluten-free options.
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Calave Wine Bar on California Avenue in Palo Alto is casual, contemporary, and always has something for everyone — especially dads. If your father is a wine connoisseur he'll feel right at home, but if cold brew is more his style, Calave offers a nice assortment of craft beer on tap and by the bottle. Enjoy a porter, an ale or Imperial IPA, and if you don't know what you like, definitely try a flight. Open on Father's Day, 4-9 p.m.
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Coming to Filoli this Father's Day is The Bey Paule Band, led by Anthony Paule, featuring Philadelphia–based vocalist Frank Bey. The award-winning, eight–piece soul and blues band — soulful, rousing, steeped in tradition — has added two high–spirited singers, Terrie Odabi and Loralee Christensen, just for this show. Tickets will sell out, so don't miss out!
