Poke, Koobideh, Bethab & Tortas Highlight Solano’s Culinary Culture

“Hawaiian Poke Bowl from Okashi Fusion. Photo by Joyce Headley.

Okashi Fusion

VACAVILLE – Nestled in the Nut Tree Plaza is a new concept in dining called Okashi Fusion. Think sushi meets a bowl with your choice of goodies added in!

Called Hawaiian Poke Bowls, you choose 2 proteins (Hamachi, Ahi Tuna, Spicy Tuna, Miso Shrimp & Salmon). This is then mixed with a special sauce and poured over your choice of either sushi rice or salad greens topped with crab (optional). Choose from several different toppings (jalapenos, edamame, ginger, cucumbers, green onion, avocado, seaweed, wasabi, etc.) and drizzle with either a spicy or mild mayo sauce.

Everything is fresh with the customary flavors of sushi. Priced at $11.95 per bowl, it’s a filling lunch or dinner option on it’s own.

Don’t forget to check out their large selection of mini macaron ice cream sandwiches, shaved “snow” and bubble teas.

1679 E. Monte Vista Ave., #103 in Vacaville. (707)359-4090.


Tasty Indian Pizza

FAIRFIELD – OMG! Now here’s a match made in heaven. All that you love about America’s favorite food, combined with the distinctive flavors of authentic Indian cuisine are available at Tasty Indian Pizza.

They offer Italian pizzas and appetizers as well as Indian pizzas, appetizers and subs.

The Don (Tandoori chicken wings) is very popular and the Raaz (Indian garlic bread) is absolutely the best I’ve ever had!

The Indian pizza was amazing as well. I ordered a half Hero (butter chicken, mushrooms, red onion, bell peppers, jalapeños, tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese, topped with fresh cilantro) and half Bethab (garlic paneer, chicken, white sauce, pineapple, tomatoes, red onions, mozzarella cheese topped with fresh cilantro.

At 1345 Oliver Road in Fairfield, they’re take-out only. Call (707) 426-2200.


The Cafe Plenty

VACAVILLE – The Café Plenty hits all the right notes, bringing fresh and delectable American and Mediterranean dishes to Vacaville.

In this small, modest space, they serve impressive entrées, including tasty Charburgers (100% fresh ground Angus chuck), Chargrilled Sandwiches and Wraps, Lamb Chops, Gourmet Mediterranean Platters, and Specialty Kebabs (beef, chicken and lamb), soups, salads, and sides.

Try their amazing Chicken Kebab (charbroiled skewer of marinated, tender chunks of chicken breast) served with saffron rice, salad, grilled tomato and slice of bread or the Beef Koobideh (juicy, flavorful ground beef with same sides). A selection of desserts is available and changes daily.

Open Tuesday thru Saturday, they’re at 211 Peabody Road. Call (707)689-5665 or visit www.thecafeplenty.com.


El Pueblo

WINTERS – Besides featuring deli meats and produce items, El Pueblo is a surprisingly great spot to enjoy a tasty meal.

Breakfast offerings include Huevos Rancheros, pancakes, breakfast burritos and Menudo (Saturday & Sunday only). Lunch and dinner items include tacos, taco salad, quesadillas, burritos, tortas, tostadas, fajitas, tamales, chile rellenos, pork chile verde, flautas, pozole, enchiladas and seafood dishes, hamburgers and cheeseburgers.

The lunch special includes your choice of 5 tacos (carnitas, steak or chicken) for only $6. I followed my server’s recommendation and enjoyed the amazingly flavorful steamed filet with grilled veggies, rice and beans. Oh so good! They also serve wine and beer and the salsa bar includes chips.

They’re open 7 days a week at 43 Main Street in Winters. Call (530) 795-3450.


Joyce Headley writes ‘Tastes of Your Town’, a monthly feature in the print edition of Your Town Monthly. This article was originally published in the October 2016 Solano County Editions.