Head & Tails: Lake Chalet

Posted on September 7, 2009 
Filed Under Food & Drink, Head & Tails, Oakland

Up or over, shaken or stirred, we’re looking for the best bets to quench your thirst. This is where we spill it all about the area’s nearest and dearest brewpubs, bars, wine cellars, tasting rooms, package stores, liquor aisles, and well, we ARE thorough.

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Where Labor Day signals the end of summer throughout most of the country, in the Bay area it cues our eagerly-awaited heat wave. September heralds those warm halcyon days that are typically thwarted by June and July’s blankets of fog. So, toss off those North Face jackets and hipster hoodies. It’s time to soak up some sun.

Enter Lake Chalet, the East Bay franchise of San Francisco’s ever-popular Beach Chalet and Park Chalet. The Mission Revival rendezvous breathes new life into Lake Merritt’s historic boathouse and (finally) brings an outdoor oasis to the inland waterway. In addition to the contemporary California fare and fresh seafood served inside, patrons can enjoy a burger or weekend brunch on the expansive dock.

But really, what better way to rejoice in the beautiful rise in temperature than with a refreshing cocktail. High marks go to the Gondola Sour, which pairs aged amber rum with hints of amaretto and lemon. Then, continuing in theme, set out on a panoramic tour of Oakland and the newly refurbished park banks on a Venetian-style cruise, courtesy of Gondola Servizio.

Sail on, Oakland. It looks like your ship has come in.

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Lake Chalet is located on the western shore of Lake Merritt at 1520 Lakeside Drive in Oakland. 510.208.LAKE.

—Michael

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