Best of 2007

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More than a few times we have been asked, “How do you pick the ‘best’ in ‘Best of’?” How do we come up with a category, tabulate the votes and pick a winner? Well, it is really very simple. We listen to the input from you, the readers, from your calls and e-mails and from friends, colleagues, co-workers and pretty much anyone else that has a suggestion or an opinion. Then we meet once or twice a week and go over the list.
    As you will see, categories change just as our tastes are altered over time. Sometimes a category is retired, other times it is eliminated and at times it is enhanced. It is about keeping this issue a living, vibrant reflection of our times and our tastes. Is there a lot of science involved? Well, to be honest, not really. But we hope that it informs, amuses, entertains and, in the end, makes living in this special part of Northern California all that more interesting and enjoyable for all of us.

Above:

Place to see animals up close and personal (tie)
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom
1001 Fairgrounds Dr., Vallejo (707) 644-4000; sixflags.com/discoverykingdom.

Safari West
3115 Porter Creek Road, Santa Rosa (707) 579-2551; safariwest.com.

Steak
Cole’s Chop House
Aged beef done to perfection, awe-inspiring side dishes, busy bar and a first-rate wine list. The place to splurge for dinner with the carnivore in your life. 1122 Main St., Napa (707) 224-6328.

Grocery store that’s not a supermarket
Browns Valley Market
A market that not only provides handpicked produce, quality selection of meats and seafood, but they have an extensive wine selection. Along with their delicious deli and friendly expert staff, Browns Valley continues to be a Napa staple. 3263 Browns Valley Road, Napa (707) 253-2480.

Small coffee roaster
Puroast
The low acidity is friendly to your tummy, and its environmentally cognizant production is friendly to the earth. Woodland; Puroast.com.
 

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