Valentine's Specials

Come by February 9th-18th, for special desserts and treats, where we have some fun with “LUV” in an outdoors and delicious ingredient kind of way.

Perfect for sharing, if you would like to pre-order any items, please give the American Bistro a call (650-965-1745).

Along with Heart-Shaped Sugar Cookies and Valentine Cupcakes, you'll also find decadent chocolate and raspberry pairings:

Cioccolata Calda
Our take on raspberry hot chocolate. Add homemade raspberry marshmallows and presto… Shoreline’s divine chocolate beverages take on a whole new dimension, just bursting with lively flavor. Besides juxtaposing the richness of these house-made drinks, the fruit flavor shines on its own and makes for a truly unique taste experience that chases the nip out of the air.

Torta Di Cioccolato with Raspberry Sauce
These dense, incredibly rich and decadent chocolate flourless cakes are meant to be paired with a fruit sauce. In this case, raspberry only enhances the molten goodness and makes every bite of these individually sized delicacies a treat not soon forgotten.

Chocolate Raspberry Mousse
Mousses form the base for many a dessert, whether paired with pastry, or simply served on their own. This one is no exception. Layers of creamy, fluffy chocolate mousse are interspersed with raspberry mousse, topped with fresh raspberries and drizzled with a raspberry coulis. Even if you haven’t overdosed on chocolate yet, you’ll want to try this elegant, very tasty, classic dessert.

Eureka Lemons Harvest

A new member of the only-at-Shoreline fruit harvest just made its debut at the Bistro: Eureka lemons – from trees planted and tended by Christina Ferrari (who runs the Boathouse & American Bistro).

These bright yellow heirloom fruits are grown organically. Perfect for both savory and sweet uses, this variety's tart juice yields a lovely acidic zing, and the flavorful zesty peel adds an aromatic note to all kinds of foods and beverages.

Since only about three milk crates-worth are available at this point (this is the first harvest), the lemons will be sold individually. If you would like to reserve a quantity, please contact the Bistro (bistro@shorelinelake.com and 650-965-1745).

Respite from Green Beer

If you prefer celebrating St. Patrick's Day away from civilization and by taking in a great view, chances are the Bistro can help.

As part of the regular menu, on March 16th-17th, for anyone in need of a corned beef, mashed potato and cabbage fix, the Bistro will be serving this traditional favorite, as well as decadent Baileys Irish Cream Cake, St. Patrick's Day Sugar Cookies and Chocolate Shamrock Cake, plus other seasonal items.

With the patio open, or having an impromptu picnic on the lawn, it's a great way to enjoy a Spring repast by the water.

If you'd like to pre-order any of these specialty desserts and pastries, please contact the Bistro (bistro@shorelinelake.com and 650-965-1745).

Easter Sunday

The Easter Bunny will make an appearance at Shoreline Lake on Sunday, March 31st, from 11am-2pm, to wish all visitors (big or little) a very Happy Easter!

Besides handing out treats for the little ones, and being available for hugs and pictures, it will be a unique opportunity to meet a very friendly rabbit lakeside, and partake of a lovely waterfront view with Brunch. (Even if not saying hello to Mr. E. Rabbit, visitors can still enjoy a beautiful view of the Lake from the outdoor patio at the American Bistro, for a much deserved break by the water.)

The American Bistro, in celebration of his visit, will also be showing off its Easter best for Brunch.

Please note that, given the popularity of celebrating Easter at Shoreline Lake, for groups coming by either Saturday or Sunday, we strongly recommend making a reservation (bistro@shorelinelake.com and 650-965-1745).

Hand-Cut Honeycomb

Along with everyone's favorite rabbit, the first of the Shoreline-exclusive honeycomb (a small quantity) will make an appearance Easter weekend. And, anyone with a sweet tooth should drop by the Bistro to get a taste of this unique delicacy.

Wildflower-imbued and hand-cut from hives tended by Christina Ferrari (she has quite a substantial garden), these amazing pieces of natural art make a perfect addition to any charcuterie board: Besides visually gorgeous, the purity and quality means you can just place a piece in your mouth and chew on the wax as the honey oozes out...

Don't wait to get yours. The timeframe for continued availability of the honeycomb varies each year (to ensure the bees' welfare). To check on how much honeycomb is available, and reserve yours, please contact the Bistro (bistro@shorelinelake.com and 650-965-1745).

Kayak Polo Cup of the West

Shoreline Lake is the site for the 3rd Annual Kayak Polo Cup of the West ("COW") tournament, taking place on Saturday, April 20th, and Sunday, April 21st. As this event is open for public viewing, it's an opportunity to watch a thrilling, fast-paced and internationally competitive sport described as a cross between water polo, basketball, and hockey.

Three teams for each of the four divisions (A, B, Women & Youth) are expected to compete, and the competition will go from 8am-6pm (Sat) and 8am-4pm (Sun).

The competitive heats will be visible to spectators – who will have a great view of the competition and action from anywhere along the shore, including the outdoor patio at Shoreline Lake's American Bistro.

The Bay Area Kayak Polo Club (organizing group) practices at Shoreline Lake, including their US National Team members. More details can be found via their tournament page.

Sail-A-Dinghy-Day

Also on Sunday, April 21st, Shoreline Lake will be holding a Sail-A-Dinghy-Day, as part of the 2024 rollout of the sailing season and the Sunday Sailing Racing program.

Taking place from 10am to 4pm, this event, designed to promote sailing as an accessible, fun and family-friendly sport, will be hosted in conjunction with the Fremont Sailing Club (FSC) – one of the Bay Area’s foremost small-craft sailing clubs.

Visitors will get access to free skippered sailboat rides, helmed by Shoreline Lake’s experienced instructors. On-the-water racing technique demonstrations will take place also. On land, booths promoting the sailing programs (for kids, teens and adults), and a display of racing dinghies (such as Lido 14, El Toro, Sunfish, Lasers, Holders and others) will be available as well. And, Shoreline Lake sailing staff and FSC members will be on hand to provide additional information.

Besides a great excuse for spending the day outdoors in a peaceful locale, the event also aims to showcase why Shoreline Lake (Silicon Valley's best kept secret) is such an attractive sailing destination for experienced small boaters and those learning to sail.

If you need additional details, please check out the press release.

Celebrating Cinco de Mayo Lakeside

Special offerings for Cinco de Mayo include: mole chicken enchiladas, fish tacos, agua fresca, flan, Mexican sweet bread (conchas), sake margaritas and a selection of Mexican beers, as well as horchata-inspired Mexican iced coffee.

With the patio open, it's a great way to enjoy your repast, and a cold one, by the water...

A Special Experience for a Special Lady

Shoreline is making sure visitors can take care of their favorite person the way she deserves. Give her a day to experience, in the way she wants..., relaxed and enjoying the people who love her most.

Spending Mom's Day by the Lake tends to pretty popular, and we recommend making reservations, especially for larger parties. For more info, reservations, etc., you can reach us via the Boathouse (650-965-7474), Bistro (650-965-1745) and Events (650-965-3779) lines.

An Al Fresco Repast for Mom!

Enjoying a Mother's Day brunch where you can sit out and take in nature and a lovely view of a lake and trees wouldn’t be too shabby a way to start to the day, or afternoon.

Pastries and other treats available for the day include: Butter Croissants, Chocolate Croissants, Almond Croissants, Blueberry Lime Curd Muffins, Pain aux Raisins...

...and additions to the Brunch Menu: Croque Madame, Croque Monsieur, Waffles with Seasonal Berries, and Specialty Quiches (roasted red bell pepper, mushroom, tomato and Valbreso French Feta Cheese; broccoli cheddar quiche).

And, let's not forget adult beverages, including the ever popular Mimosa, Bloody Mary and Margarita. With Kids’ menus available too, expect a great time. Check out the full menu for additional items, and for reservations, please give the Bistro a call (650-965-1745).

Memorial Day Weekend

For the Military, a little something: To ensure everyone gets a chance to try different ways to enjoy their free time, we’re offering current members of the military and their families a special rate (starting Memorial Day Weekend, 50% off through June 30th) towards the weekend-based teen/adult watersports classes. This offer might be something to consider if you and your family want to try a variety of watersports.

For more details about these activities, check out the Boathouse pages. Give us a call (650-965-7474) or drop on by, and we’ll be happy to answer any questions and get you started.

Also, given the three-day weekend, Brunch is extended into Monday. FYI...Larger groups should plan on calling ahead to the American Bistro (650-965-1745) for reservations.

Special Father’s Day Menu

Although the Park doesn’t allow for individual barbecues, on Sunday (June 16th), the Bistro will add a variety of grilled items to the menu, so Dad can get his barbecue fix, and everyone can enjoy being out on the patio taking in the waterfront view.

No smoke to deal with. All items will be available via the Bistro's counter service that day. Besides a variety of grilled meats and sides, veggie burgers, hot dogs and hamburgers will also be available. For dessert, we dare you to try our house-made pastries...

And, to whet the appetite: For $25 per person (kids 2-4 years old free), get an all day access pass for kayak, canoe, pedalboat, and rowboat rentals. They’ll be available by the barbecue station. For more info on the access pass, just call at the Boathouse (650-965-7474).

If Brunch is more your style, please contact the Bistro at 650-965-1745 to make reservations, particularly for large groups. You can check out the Brunch Menu here.

Shoreline Lake Summer Sailstice Celebration

Starting at 10am, on Saturday, June 22nd, Silicon Valley's destination for lake sailing takes part in a global celebration of summer and sailing!

Along with other family-friendly activities, skippered sailboat rides will be available between 10am-2pm. (Please note that space is limited for the sailboat rides, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis.)

In addition to Sailstice activities, this protected salt-water environment, set within the tranquil confines of a beautiful nature preserve, will also have its usual active sailing scene (classes, and more) going on at full blast.

Additional details about our Sailstice celebration will continue to be added as the date approaches, so please check back.

And, to make Brunch reservations (check out the Menu here), please contact the Bistro at 650-965-1745.

July Fourth Hours

To ensure Park visitors can enjoy the full fireworks display (on- and off-the-water), hours are extended at both the Bistro (8am-10:30pm, limited evening menu after 7pm) and Boathouse (10am-10:30pm). Fireworks vessel rental start and end times, plus reservation info, are noted below.

On-the-Water Viewing of July Fourth Fireworks

Enjoy the best view of the Fireworks Show, from the waters of Shoreline Lake!

The Boathouse provides to Park visitors the most unique way in the Park (and the rest of Mountain View) to enjoy the fireworks – from a pedalboat, rowboat, canoe, single/double kayak or standup paddleboard in the middle of the Lake, with friends and family.

Although watercraft are not allowed on the Lake after sunset, Shoreline makes an exception for Independence Day. The Boathouse is now taking online reservations for these special watercraft rentals, so you can escape the crowds and watch the fireworks from the water. To make a reservation by phone, and if you need additional info, please call the Boathouse at (650) 965-7474. [NB! Only Shoreline-owned vessels can be launched after dark: No private or self-launched watercraft will be allowed to take part in the viewing.]

Watercraft reservations for the fireworks viewing will include a BBQ dinner for everyone participating in the boating portion of the reservation. The BBQ dinner will be served 6pm-8pm, with boarding for the fireworks viewing boat rentals beginning at 8:30pm. (The complete menu can be found in the July Celebrations newsletter.)

Please Note: Boat rentals for the Fireworks viewing are available by reservation only. Given previous years' high demand, and to ensure that everyone can take part in this experience, the last rental time is specially extended, so you can reserve your preferred watercraft for the viewing.

On July Fourth, regular rentals must be returned by 8:30 pm, to ensure patrons with reserved vessels can board first – starting at 8:30 pm. This makes sure you can get out on the water before the show begins and can enjoy the entire show from your vessel. Also, after the show, watercraft will need to be returned by 10:15 pm.

Celebrate Bastille Day Outdoors

Need another excuse to drop by in July? Starting Friday (July 12th) through Sunday (the 14th), Shoreline Lake will be helping Francophiles commemorate the French National Day.

The American Bistro will be featuring new additions to the "usual" lineup of house-made, real French pastries, confections and savory treats – which typically include hand-made croissants, brioche, tarts, galettes, and other gorgeous pastries, in a display of gastronomic artistry. And, time-honored savory dishes, plus a decadent dessert, will make an appearance as well:

• • Spinach Quiche
• • French Lentil Soup
• • Coq au Vin (chicken braised in red wine with mushrooms and crisp lardons)
• • Steak au Poivre with Cognac Cream Sauce & Frites
• • Chocolate Mousse

With boats on the water, a view of nature, a glass of wine with friends and family on the Bistro patio, this laid back fete is a tranquil way to mark the middle of summer.

If you need to pre-order pastries for your own special occasion (or just need a larger order), please contact the Bistro at (650) 965-1745 or bistro@shorelinelake.com.

Labor Day at Shoreline Lake

If you're looking for a mini vacation (close to home), Shoreline Lake will be the South Bay's antidote for the hectic pace of life in Silicon Valley, with three laid-back days of fun, and tasty, outdoor activities during Labor Day weekend.

No laborious Labor Day in sight. Relax and enjoy a waterfront respite, where everyone can take advantage of the American Bistro patio's lovely view, and where weekend brunch is extended into Labor Day itself.

Shoreline's Yearly Sale of Cool Stuff

To ensure a fresh, new, and up-to-date fleet, Shoreline hosts a Gear Sale about once a year (for 2024, Saturday & Sunday, September 28-29, 10am-4pm).

This year's main featured items are kayaks, windsurfing gear, and stand up paddleboards, as well as miscellaneous kitchen equipment/supplies. It's a great way to purchase well-maintained used equipment for just a fraction of the retail price.

If you already have your eye on something though, and want to reserve it, or, if you can't make it to the Gear Sale, just give the Boathouse Manager a call (650-965-7474).

To get an idea of the current gear in use, check out the watersports pictures in the Boathouse section pages. And, to see the most up-to-date list of items available for the sale, check out the dedicated Gear Sale page.

Oktoberfest Celebration Starts

If you prefer your Fall celebrations to take place in a beautiful locale, and emphasize traditional seasonal cuisine (rather than oompah music), Shoreline Lake has you covered. From September 28th through October 12th, the American Bistro will be celebrating Oktoberfest by offering the following savory specials:

• • White Cheese Beer Fondue & Soft Pretzel Bites
• • Spaetzle Beef Stroganoff with Mushrooms, Shallots & Dill Pickle Cream Sauce
• • Bratwurst on a Pretzel Roll with House-Made Sauerkraut, Sweet and Spicy Mustard & German Potato Salad
• • Classic Reuben (thinly sliced pastrami smothered in white beer cheese and sauerkraut on grilled German seeded rye) & German Potato Salad

And, to help complement those dishes, seasonal specialty beers:

• • Sierra Nevada Oktoberfest Festbier (punchy, biscuity, brightly celebratory)
• • Firestone Oaktoberfest (subtle, balanced, exceptional Marzen)
• • Allagash Haunted House ("gravely" dark-hued, "hauntingly" complex)
• • Samuel Adams Octoberfest (deep smooth caramel notes, Prost!)

No yodeling contests. (We promise!) Just a lovely, tranquil dining environment to enjoy classic Fall dishes and treats, as well as a cold one by the water. And, if wanting to partake of these goodies during weekend Brunch, we recommend contacting the Bistro at (650) 965-1745 or bistro@shorelinelake.com to make reservations, particularly for large groups.

Shoreline-Exclusive Fruit Harvest

If in the mood for fruit of premium flavor and sweetness, visitors can purchase from the first batch – starting in late September – freshly picked, pesticide-free, sweet and juicy Golden Delicious and Pink Lady apples (with additional varieties making their appearance in October). Small and large bags, as well as boxes (approximately 19-30lbs) will be available.

As the seventh harvest from a private, non-commercial ranch, only fruit from a select few trees will be harvested this year (hand-picked over just a few weeks, maybe into early December, to ensure peak ripeness). And, in keeping with Shoreline's emphasis on seasonality, when this quality fruit runs out, that's it until next Fall.

If you have questions about the varieties or would like to reserve a selection, please contact the Bistro (650-965-1745 and bistro@shorelinelake.com).

Oktoberfest Celebration Continues

Going through October 12th, Shoreline Lake's Oktoberfest continues with the rollout of seasonal savory specials and specialty beers at the American Bistro:

• • White Cheese Beer Fondue & Soft Pretzel Bites
• • Spaetzle Beef Stroganoff with Mushrooms, Shallots & Dill Pickle Cream Sauce
• • Bratwurst on a Pretzel Roll with House-Made Sauerkraut, Sweet and Spicy Mustard & German Potato Salad
• • Classic Reuben (thinly sliced pastrami smothered in white beer cheese and sauerkraut on grilled German seeded rye) & German Potato Salad
• • Sierra Nevada Oktoberfest Festbier (punchy, biscuity, brightly celebratory)
• • Firestone Oaktoberfest (subtle, balanced, exceptional Marzen)
• • Allagash Haunted House ("gravely" dark-hued, "hauntingly" complex)
• • Samuel Adams Octoberfest (deep smooth caramel notes, Prost!)

And, in conjunction with Oktoberfest, a "Celebration of the Pumpkin" will also take place during the month of October, with the Bistro adding additional house-made pastries, desserts and other sweet offerings to the menu:

• • Cannoli with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Filling
• • Classic Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
• • Warm Pumpkin Walnut Bread "Mini Loaf"
• • Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
• • Pumpkin Latte

These celebrations make a great option for enjoying classic Fall dishes and treats, as well as a cold one by the water, in a lovely, tranquil environment (no "oompah music" allowed...). And, if you have a larger group that would like to enjoy these goodies during weekend Brunch, please contact the Bistro at (650) 965-1745 or bistro@shorelinelake.com to make reservations (recommended).

Shoreline-Exclusive Fruit Harvest

Whether you need an excuse, or not, to get out and enjoy a beautiful lakeside setting, being one of the few to partake of these "limited edition" fruits makes a great one. In other words, you need to get yours before they run out...

The American Bistro will continue showcasing, for a limited time, the harvest of some unique organic fruit: Since the Boathouse & Bistro owner advocates using locally grown, seasonal products, she and her family are making available – exclusively to Shoreline Lake – this quality fruit, grown at their ranch in Pescadero.

If in the mood for fruit of premium flavor and sweetness, visitors can purchase freshly picked, pesticide-free, sweet and juicy Golden Delicious, Gala and Jonastar apples, with some Pink Lady also available. More Pink Lady and additional varieties (Scarlet Spur, Ruby Mac and Fuji apples, along with Bosc pears) will be making their appearance during October. Small, medium or large bags, as well as small or large boxes (ranging from 19-30lbs) will be available.

As the sixth harvest from a private, non-commercial ranch, only fruit from a select few trees will be harvested this year (hand-picked over just a few weeks, maybe into early December, to ensure peak ripeness). And, in keeping with Shoreline's emphasis on seasonality, when this quality fruit runs out, that's it until next Fall.

Last of the Season Fruit Harvest

Regarding the exclusive-to-Shoreline fruit sold at the Bistro, along with Bosc and Comice pears, current apple varieties are Ruby Mac, Golden Delicious, Jonastar, Fuji, and Granny Smith.

Please note that, while some more Granny Smith may come in for November, the harvest for the others is done: In other words, make sure to get yours soon, as once these very tasty and organic fruits sell out, that's it for the year. (All of these fruits come from the Pescadero ranch of Christina Ferrari – who runs the Boathouse & Bistro – and her family.)

Right now small, medium or large bags, as well as boxes (ranging from 19-30lbs) of fruit are still available. To reserve your selection, please contact the Bistro (bistro@shorelinelake.com and 650-965-1745).

November "National Day" Specials

In addition to this lovely fruit, November is going to be tastier than ever at the American Bistro, starting off with some delectable food days, celebrated nationally. To that end, Executive Chef Gavin Gonzado has added the following specials to the Bistro menu:

• • Nov. 5th National Donut Day – along with the one in June, because donuts deserve two days... (Bombolini with Italian Pastry Cream)
• • Nov. 9th National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day (Fried Buffalo Chicken Sandwich)
• • Nov. 12th National French Dip Day (You guessed it!)

Beaujolais Nouveau Celebration

À votre santé! The Bistro has brought back the Beaujolais Nouveau Celebration, which will be held from Nov. 21-27, to showcase the official release date (Thursday, Nov. 21st) for this year's "BN" – which is perfect for a Fall/Winter lunch and early afternoon repast.

To that end, the Bistro is featuring traditional French pairings for "Burgundy's Quiet Little Secret" that highlight this versatile, light wine:

• • 1st Pairing - Boudin Blanc or Boudin Noir (with Mashed Potato & Sauteed Apples)
• • 2nd Pairing - Beef Bourguignon (with Bacon, Root Vegetables, Potatoes, Mushrooms & Pearl Onions)
• • Inspired Soups - Butter Nut Squash / Acorn Squash

Although it may be young, this wine deserves to be celebrated: According to Chef Gonzado, if you're looking for a wine that's great for the Holidays, Beaujolais Nouveau can handle the Thanksgiving meal, and also take on the variety of spices normally found in Christmas-related dishes. Storing it is also simple. Just put it in the fridge (it should be served chilled).

Autumn Spice Week

Get your tastebuds prepped. Shoreline is shooing away the grey weather with the 10th Annual Autumn Spice Week.

Come by the American Bistro, Thursday (Nov 21sth) through Wednesday (Nov 27th), and enjoy a change of pace from the Thanksgiving/Black Friday rush.

Besides highlighting seasonal, spice-laden treats, and the release of this year's Beaujolais Nouveau, we’re making sure visitors can partake in a civilized respite from Turkey Day preparations and Black Friday craziness.

Along with the usual, exquisite French and American pastries the Bistro offers, holiday pies and traditional “Fall-centric” items will be on hand, in addition to goodies with a more exotic take, as well as some new items that will be rolled out during the week.

For pre-orders, please give the Bistro (650-965-1745) a call. Regarding the menu of "spice-laden" items the Bistro is featuring...

Figgy Puddings
With dried figs and spices as its base, the English have certainly managed to create a confection that smells and tastes like the Holidays. "Breadier" and more cake-like than an American pudding, this lovely and iconic dessert has remained a staple since the Middle Ages. Call it whatever you want, but include delicious in the description.

Molasses Ginger Cookies
Autumn perfection. Old-fashioned, yet timeless. Soft, chewy and decadent, the molasses creates a beautiful balance and flavor explosion with the candied ginger. Be forewarned. One will not be enough. 'Nuff said.

Raisin Pumpkin Muffins
Forget just adding a bit of extra spicing to a “regular” muffin. We wanted to create something a little different that really brings out the delicate flavor of these teeny cakes. This is where raisins meet pumpkin and spice, to ensure every bit is moist, flavorful and tastes like Fall.

Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie
Here's to giving a classic the amazing award. Also called Derby Pie, the addition of dark chocolate and bourbon gives "regular" pecan pie flavors additional and deeper nuance. Not a bad way to make this pie even more interesting, while keeping the sweetness and texture of all the components balanced.

Pumpkin Pie
Cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg… spices that should always go into a pumpkin pie, and you can certainly find them in this one. In conjunction with the aromatic nature of the pumpkin, they provide a fullness of flavor that makes the silky smoothness of a properly-prepared filling shine. Offset by a perfectly baked crust, this combination explains why it remains a tradition.

Apple Pie
Of course the Bistro's pastry fairies use Shoreline-exclusive apples for these scrumptious classic pies. Add a flaky, tender crust, with those lovely apple slices dancing in caramelized sugar, spices and butter, and there's a reason this pie is a mainstay. A Fall treat (or any time of the year), this delightful transformation of exquisite fruit is the ultimate in comfort food.

Individuals Pies, as well as Inspired Tartlets
Presenting treats that take the cute factor to another level. Deliciously spiced and flavored like their bigger cousins, these miniaturized pie morsels make a great snack that put a new twist on the classics. A perfect size for kids, the classic flavors and textures are also a perfect fit for adult tastebuds too.

Hot Spiced Apple Cider
Starting with a sweet-tart apple cider as its base, this non-alcoholic, delicious beverage tastes even better than the lovely aroma wafting from the cup. The perfectly balanced rich apple flavor is Fall at its purest. Warm yourself and the kiddos with this comforting, spicy concoction that chases the chill away.

Chai
Although a generic term for tea in many parts of the world, in the US, we primarily associate Chai with the Indian masala spiced tea beverage. This hot, sweetened, spiced milk tea uses a variety of different spices (generally cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and pepper) to produce a warming, soothing effect that’s tough to resist on a cold day.

A Shoreline Lake Advent Calendar

It's the countdown to Christmas! For a little something to while away the time, we've put together an interactive calendar that showcases some of the wonderful goodies, as well as fun activities available at Shoreline: And, by checking it out, you'll not only see the lovely sight of some extraordinary pastries and other treats the Bistro's in-house pastry fairies whip up during the year and through the Holidays, but you may end up winning a prize...

Every day from December 1-24 a new "door" opens, and each is a chance at winning four different prizes – a $50 gift certificate (towards Weekend Brunch for 4) at the American Bistro, a Camp Shoreline Scholarship, a Pedalboat + Picnic Basket Lunch, and a Beginner Wingboarding class. All you have to do is submit an entry. And, if you see something you would like the Bistro to prepare, please let us know at 650-965-1745 (Don't worry, any opened door in the calendar will stay open during the entire 24 days.). Enjoy!

Curves & Angles Exploratory Wine Dinner

New for 2024, Shoreline Lake has partnered with Jackson Family Wines to showcase a special wine dinner/seminar on Thursday, December 5th.

In addition to enjoying a gorgeous waterfront view, a beautifully prepared three-course dinner and delving into the terroir and craftsmanship of Jackson Family Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon wines, this exploratory tasting also introduces new language for wine enthusiasts that focuses on modern "shape" and "texture" terminology (which is becoming more prevalent in descriptions of this complex beverage).

This dinner and tasting experience ($85/person) will be held from 6-8pm. Synchronizing with dishes prepared by Gavin Gonzado, the American Bistro's Executive Chef, guests at this unique event will enjoy a meal that covers an interplay of flavors in each course, matched with different, but complementary wines.

First Course
Spinach Salad
Warm Sherry Caramelized Bosc Pear, Roasted Black Fig, Pecans, Pomegranate Arils, Gorgonzola Cheese & Warm Maple Dressing

Paired with:
La Crema Monterey Rosé of Pinot Noir – Blood orange, wild strawberry; delicate, crisp and vibrant.

(A still rosé providing an acidity and mineral flintiness that enhance the fruit-forward, yet savory, nature of this salad's elements.)

Second Course
Five Spice Maple Leaf Duck Breast
Forbidden Rice, Mandarin Orange Segments, Radish Salad & Burnt Orange Demi-Glace

Paired with:
Murphy-Goode California Pinot Noir – Raspberry, dark cherry, tea leaf and fresh picked herbs.

Murphy-Goode California Cabernet Sauvignon – Dense blackberry, cassis, bay leaf, thyme, vanilla, softened with oak aging.

(Selections highlighting the vibrancy, acidity and fruit-intense base needed for wines that harmonize with duck breast prepared in this manner.)

Third Course
Braised English Short Rib
Celery Root and Potato Puree, Crispy Leeks, Horseradish & Blueberry Demi-Glace

Paired with:
Carmel Road Monterey Pinot Noir – Vibrant Bing cherry, cranberry, orange peel, tea leaf, damp earth.

Carmel Road California Cabernet Sauvignon – Blackberry, black cherry, blueberry and vanilla bean. Rich, yet structured.

(Silky, medium-bodied, yet profound wines that meet the challenge of integrating all the deep flavors, accentuated by the fruit and piquant savoriness, of this hearty dish.)

As part of the enjoyment, and the educational foundation, of this exploratory dinner, to aid in choosing their favorites, guests will receive infographic cards that can usher them through each pairing, in addition to guidance from the Jackson Family Wines host and Chef Gonzado.

Participants must be 21 years of age or older, by the date of the event. To make a reservation for yourself and others (including as a corporate gathering), online booking is available. If you need additional information, please contact the Events Team (650-965-3779 or events@shorelinelake.com).

Chestnut Specials, Fruits of the Sea & Holiday Pâtisserie

Throughout the year, the American Bistro makes a point of incorporating seasonal ingredients into the menu, and that definitely also includes the Holidays.

Need a chestnut fix? Starting in December you can expect to see chestnuts incorporated into a variety of the menu offerings, as well as daily specials. Here are just a few examples:

• • Poulet Chasseur, with Celery Root Purée & Chestnuts
• • Vino-Braised Pork, with Chestnut Stuffing & Fennel
• • Chestnut-Inspired Sandwiches & Salads

In addition the following Soup Du Jour offerings will also be available:

• • French Cream Chestnut Soup ("Potage Aux Marrons")
• • Creole Celery Root Chestnut Soup

Plus, some festive "Winter Fruits of the Sea" specials, will also be available on select dates during December. Given its French underpinnings (and Executive Chef Gavin Gonzado's expertise with Classic cuisines), the American Bistro will be adding traditional (and delicious) seafood dishes on the following weekends:

• • Dec 14th & 15th – Shoreline Lake Seafood Bouillabaisse, with Green Garlic Aioli Croûton
• • Dec 21st & 22nd – Frutti Di Mare “Fruits of the Sea” Holiday Seafood Paella (available, starting at noon).

Just want to take a break, while enjoying nature? Need to outsource your Holiday baking? Or, give some beautiful (and very tasty) confections as a gift? The American Bistro has you covered, with a host of seasonal Holiday pastries, confections and warming libations this December.

Along with the usual, exquisite real French and Classic American pastries on offer, the Bistro's pastry fairies will also be whipping up a variety of special, sweet (and warming) goodies that make the Holidays that much brighter:

• • Yule log (Bûche de Noël)
• • Cranberry Citrus Loaf
• • Peppermint Chocolate Mousse
• • Chocolate Eggnog Truffles
• • Cranberry Bread Pudding
• • Italian Christmas Cannoli
• • Ginger Cookies
• • Spitzbuben Cookies
• • Panettone with Chocolate Chips & Orange Essence
• • Mulled Wine
• • Hot Apple Cider

To pre-order any of the Bistro's pastries, confections, cookies, etc., please contact the Bistro (bistro@shorelinelake.com and 650-965-1745).

Shoreline Lake Holiday Gift Cards

If you need a Holiday gifting option, purchasing a Shoreline Lake gift card can be useful for a variety of outdoor activities and are also redeemable at the Bistro too.

They can be purchased online, or on-site at the Boathouse main office (and mailed to the recipient if you prefer). In addition, you can either choose the amount, or take advantage of the option to purchase gift cards with specially designated Holiday promo values, through January 15, 2025 (just choose a value below, and then plug in the associated code during checkout):

• • $45 for $60 value – code: GC45FOR60
• • $90 for $120 value – code: GC90FOR120
• • $225 for $300 value – code: GC225FOR300
• • $375 for $500 value – code: GC375FOR500

Chances are these cards can also allay the pressure that comes with giving the right gift and, perhaps, help give a bit of motivation for a New Year's resolution. In case it doesn't work out, Shoreline's registration system has a feature that allows recipients to re-sell the gift card, so that someone else can redeem it through the same system.

And, of course, if you're not sure what might work, we'll be happy to put something together for you, or leave it "open to the recipient's interpretation." Just let us know if you need more info (boathouse@shorelinelake.com and 650-965-7474).