Foothill Flavors

Waystation is the new kid on Mok’s block

by Antoinette Herndon

The newly opened Waystation Alehouse & Grill in Mokelumne Hill has a mission statement.

The bistro’s menu states:

“The Waystation means quality food, great service and low prices. All our meals are freshly prepared with loving care.”

The owners also add a caveat: “Sometimes, it may be necessary to remember that patience is a virtue.”

Charles and I were at the Wayfairer on their opening weekend (May 5). The food was good, the service intent obvious but patience was more than a virtue, it was mandatory. We waited for everything a looooooong time. You might say the virtue way or the highway.

“We’re very happy just to be open,” the owners, Kevin and Marni Sparks agreed. They were both a bit breathless from trying to do everything, be everywhere at once. A trial by fire if there ever was one.

My second visit to the bistro occurred on the day I had a workshop taking place at my house. It wasn’t the kind of workshop where you build things with hammers and nails. Ours was harder than that. It was the sort where you work with your brains. At least you’re supposed to. We were trying hard.

The six of us—Monika Rose, Pam Mumdale, Genevieve Beltran, Jennifer Hoffman, Sally Henry and I—are writing novels. We gather periodically for some cut throat critiquing. For some of us it had been an ego-bruising

morning. We were all so ready for a break!

Pam suggested: “What about the new restaurant?”

I was reluctant. It wasn’t like we had all afternoon to linger over lunch. But, regardless of my trepidation, the six of us trooped into the Waystation, found a table and settled in. Diners may recall the building from its former incarnation as Thomi’s—knotty pine ceiling, low open booths, and lots of windows. It’s light, bright and open with a small but inviting wine and beer bar to the side.

We each studied the menu carefully. There were a plentitude of lunch or light dinner items from which to choose. Monika spotted what she wanted right away—the Caesar Salad ($7.95). It was the classic Caesar consisting of romaine lettuce, shredded parmesan cheese, egg and homemade croutons. She was well satisfied.

Pam decided on a cheeseburger ($7.25) served on a fresh bun with garlic butter. She chose a house salad as a side. It looked crisp and inviting. Jennifer went for a cheeseburger as well but with a topping of avocado ($7.95). Jenn enjoyed a side of fries.

Sally’s choice was a chicken salad sandwich ($7.95) served on sourdough bread with a side of coleslaw. Genevieve and I both ordered tuna melts oozing goodness across grilled sourdough bread ($7.95). I selected a cup of split pea soup for my side. It was delicious.

All of us enjoyed ice tea for $1.95 with on-the-house

refills.

By now, I was a convert. I, too, shared Kevin and Marni’s happiness that their Waystation had at last opened.

Our small group emerged from the bistro a bunch of happy campers ready to face the music once again with our novels-in- progress. The food and service at the Waystation had both been excellent. No one could complain about the price. Kevin and Marni now have their act together. No question about it, Waystation is an asset to the area.

Chatting with Kevin later, I learned that he and Marni plan to be a showcase for local produce and wine. They are already using bread made by that baker par excellence, Ron Pitner, and their greens are grown in the immediate area. As weather permits, the operation will expand into the patio area and will include live music.

The Waystation menu states “We offer a Mother Lode of fun and flavor.” I believe it and look forward to more.

VITALS: Waystation Alehouse & Grill, corner of highways 49 and 26, Mokelumne Hill. Phone: 286-6603. Open Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m to 9 p.m., Sunday, Monday and Thursday ll a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Credit cards accepted.

Pictures:

You can drive right up to the Waystation in Mokelumne Hill.

Enjoying a lunch break at the Waystation in Mokelumn Hill are, left to right, Pam Mumdale, Sally Henry and Antoinette Herndon.

Photos by Monika Rose