|
We engaged with Michelle Kusanovich of mArc Studios about a year ago to do a massive remodel of our existing home. As we have now filed with the city and are nearing the completion of the design...
We engaged with Michelle Kusanovich of mArc Studios about a year ago to do a massive remodel of our existing home. As we have now filed with the city and are nearing the completion of the design faze of the remodel, I have nothing but good things to say about Michelle.
First, we had no idea what we were getting ourselves into, but we knew what we wanted to do and that city planning departments can always be a challenge to deal with. Michelle started the job off right by doing her homework with the city. As part of the initial feasibility study, she discovered we could file for an abandonment for a portion of the right of way in our front yard (which we didn't know about), and as a result, we would be able to add substantially more square feet to our project. This was huge for us, because we live on a corner lot where it turned out the front door was not technically the front of our house and this affected set back and other requirements.
Michelle's homework helped us move quickly through the planning departments and building departments with few comments. I compare this to horror stories from others in our neighborhood where the process has taken months to get the necessary approvals.
I also appreciate how well Michelle has worked with us to create a unique Craftsman design that fits our style and still stay within budget. My understanding is many architects focus on their own designs and their own ideas. Michelle always worked with us collaboratively. She could present her view of the project and the design, but she did so without being overbearing. My wife truly appreciated working with her (and continues to do so).
Like any services person, Michelle has several projects going at one time. So you do need to make sure you are getting your part done by picking out fixtures, finishes and other aspects of the design. She won't force you to do your part, and that can slow the process. She also won't fill in the blanks of the design without your help. So don't expect her to make all the decisions for you.
But we are 100% happy with her work and recommend her highly.
Hide
|
|
Let me be honest by saying that the owners are good friends, but I recently had a business dinner at Sundance and was reminded that this truly is the best steakhouse in Silicon Valley.
During my...
Let me be honest by saying that the owners are good friends, but I recently had a business dinner at Sundance and was reminded that this truly is the best steakhouse in Silicon Valley.
During my recent dinner, I arrived with my colleagues at the bar enjoying martinis. They were already having a great time and the staff was carefully taking care of them (note no one new I was friends with the owner). But Sundance is a great place to meet friends even for a quick drink.
For dinner, I started with a simple salad. It was good, but it is a salad. However, as always, the prime rib I ordered for dinner was excellent. Perfectly cooked to order. I was once again a happy camper.
The wine selection is also excellent and the staff very. Once again, I happen to know the owners spend a great deal of time perfecting it. But even Wine Spectator agrees with me.
Its no surprise to me that Sundance continues to win awards for its food and service even after 30 years of operation. Its not cheap but its worth every cent.
Hide
|
|
I recently had dinner on a Friday night at Piacere. They have completed a remodel and expansion of the restaurant so I wanted to check it out.
I must say that I was impressed. The ambiance,...
I recently had dinner on a Friday night at Piacere. They have completed a remodel and expansion of the restaurant so I wanted to check it out.
I must say that I was impressed. The ambiance, design and overall look of the restaurant was fantastic. Someone did a great job. A great looking bar area up front. A large dining room in back with a smaller side room and a decent size wine cellar in the back. As with many Italian restaurants the tables did seem a little tightly packed together, but that can be good if you want to be seen at a rocking place. Although it can be a little hectic if you want something more romantic. But this is easily one of the best locations in San Carlos in terms of ambiance.
Now given the excellent style of the restaurant, I was a little surprised by the menu. Not the contents, but that fact that I was handed a printed sheet of paper. They could have splurged a little and bought more leather folios to put the paper into. But even more surprising was that the prices were very reasonable. Given how great the place looked, I was actually very surprised that few dishes were more than $20-25.
Ok. Its a restaurant. So I am sure you are asking how was the food. My party of 6 was quite happy. I had an ahi tuna appetizer (not sure that's Italian) that was tasty. And I had a roast lamb for dinner that was prepared perfectly. Combined with an excellent wine, I can truthfully say that I was very satisfied. As a lover of tiramisu, I did have to give the Piacere version a try. Their presentation and preparation is unique and tasty. So many times tiramisu is too runny/rummy, but theirs is more of a pastry that I enjoyed heartily.
Definitely a great place for dinner. And perhaps for a first date where you want to impress her without breaking the bank.
Hide
|
|
Many years ago, Lion & Compass was a favorite lunch hangout for the AMD sales force. Today, the restaurant remains a culinary staple for the Silicon Valley.
Last night, I attended a business...
Many years ago, Lion & Compass was a favorite lunch hangout for the AMD sales force. Today, the restaurant remains a culinary staple for the Silicon Valley.
Last night, I attended a business dinner at the restaurant. As this was my first time having dinner at Lion & Compass, I was surprised by the prices of the meals. While it has been some time, I always remember lunch as much more reasonable. Of course, the prices were not out of line with other nice restaurants in the valley, so I ordered the Caesar salad and New York steak hoping the food would reflect the cost.
I must say that I was not disappointed. My food was excellent. My steak was cooked perfectly. Even the potatoes and vegetables that came with the meal, which I usually pass over, were devoured.
For dessert, I ordered the profiteroles, which were outstanding, and I highly recommend (can't say what they cost as I had forgotten about that by then).
Looking around the table, everyone seemed to have a good meal. Whether they ordered fish, steak or pasta, all I saw were clean plates.
Good wine. Good food. And nice atmosphere. (I should mention that it wasn't crowded for a Monday night business dinner. But during lunch time, the crowded open room can get quite noisy.)
Access off 101 is also easy making this a convenient place for business meals.
Hide
|