20 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {quickpunch} CABIN by Patrick Hutchinson—Well-written, amusing account of the author’s attempts to resurrect an old, off-the-grid cabin in the Pacific Northwest. The Wedding People by Alison Espach—Intending to end her life, a woman checks into a luxury hotel—but soon gets dragged into wedding festivities by a headstrong bride. The English Garden— Gorgeous look at spectacular gardens and landscapes as only the British can achieve— theenglishgarden.co.uk WHO KNEW? In the 1850s, San Mateo’s Central Park began as the private estate of railroad tycoon C. B. Polhemus, before being transformed by Captain William Kohl, who filled the grounds with lush landscaping and exotic trees that still tower over the park today. When the city acquired the 16-acre property in 1922, it became San Mateo County’s very first municipal park—and its role quickly expanded. A baseball field, playground, recreation center and the beloved Japanese tea garden soon followed. Anchored by the iconic stone-and-iron fence along El Camino Real, Central Park has grown into a vibrant gathering place. Well Read Unscramble FOS O LCROT N EWROT Finally, some half-baked advice: If you sleep until lunchtime, you can save your breakfast money. Discoveries + MINCE garlic, not words at a cookbook book club hosted by the San Mateo County Libraries. After testing out recipes at home, the group reconvenes to report back on their kitchen triumphs and tragedies. Join in the culinary conversation at San Carlos Library on second Wednesdays or Atherton Library on second Thursdays. + ROAM among the owl’s clover, fiddlenecks and a wealth of other wildflowers at Byrne Preserve in the Los Altos Hills. When visiting this welcoming open space of grasslands and woodlands, park at the lot by Westwind Community Barn and say hello to some horses before heading out on the trails that run along its luscious green hillsides. Dash to Dine + ROJA—Classic European cuisine with a delightful bustling atmosphere. Tasteful dishes and smiling servers—242 State Street, Los Altos + FIREHOUSE BISTRO—California cuisine with standouts like mussels, clams and seafood risotto—2991 Woodside Road, Woodside + HANABI RAMEN—Small no-fuss mom-and-pop with amazing ramen and a whole host of Japanese dishes. You’ll leave happy—723 California Drive, Burlingame
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