Father’s Day is almost here! If you haven’t already made plans, there’s no time to waste. Fortunately, Novato’s full of fun stuff to do with dad. With a little planning, you can make dad’s big day special and still keep things local. Dads appreciate that sort of thing.
Fantastic Father’s Day Gifts
Sometimes, shopping for dad can seem difficult. But remember: no matter what you get him, it will mean a lot coming from you. It also helps that there are plenty of great places to shop for thoughtful gifts in Novato.
If you want to splurge on something special, head to McDonald’s Jewelers. You’ll find wonderful keepsake watches and more at this hometown jewelry store with a rich history. If he’s more of a sports guy, try Old Town Sports for quality, outdoor sporting gear.
Maybe dad is the kind of guy who takes pride in his garden? If you think pop may appreciate an upgrade on his lawn mower or some new weed whacking tools, check out Bucks Saw and Lawn Equipment.
Is dad the kind of guy who likes to step out in style? If so, stop by Nordstrom Rack in Vintage Oaks, where you can pick up something nice for his wardrobe at a price that won’t break the bank.
Quality Time Together
Once you’ve got a gift sorted out, consider planning some quality time with dad, beginning the day with breakfast together.
Start the day at Toast, a Novato favorite for breakfast, located in the Hamilton Marketplace. This lively, contemporary American eatery is a great place for brunch. Their quality menu offers fan favorites like the bacon and egg breakfast pizza. Local tip: Legendary guitarist Carlos Santana is a frequent guest.
Another brunch spot worth a look is Beso Bistro, a hidden gem at the south end of Novato. They provide great service and even better food, infusing regional coastal Californian fare with global flavors. They’ve got a charming outdoor patio that welcomes furry family members.
Fun Father’s Day Activities
There are plenty of dad-friendly activities to be found in Novato, like fishing on Stafford Lake. If you plan on taking your old man on a fishing trip, order him a fishing rod at Powell Products.
If he’s into cycling and craft beers, take dad to BicycleBrustop on Grant Avenue, where he can enjoy a pint among the latest in bike gear.
You could also plan a good ol’ fashion barbecue. Stock up on grillable meats and vegetables at Harvest Market. If you don’t have a barbecue pit, you could get him one at Pini Ace Hardware. There are also plenty of parks in Novato with built-in barbecue pits including Pioneer Park and Miwok Park.
If you want to leave the cooking to others, and enjoy some live-music ambience, head to HopMonk for KC Turner’s Cookout Concert Series. Enjoy a family-friendly outdoor concert in the beer garden. Rock artist Alejandro Excovedo will be the featured guest of the evening.
For a fun day full of local brews, take dad to Beer Craft on Redwood Blvd or the new Indian Valley Brewing on Railroad Ave. Indian Valley Brewing will celebrate Father’s Day with music by local band The Odds and a visit from the Moonraker food truck. If you think he’d rather go wine tasting, try Mantra Wines for a tasting flight and a delicious food pairing in a comfortable, relaxed setting. Try their arugula, prosciutto and fig flatbread, perhaps paired with a bottle of 2013 Big Ridge California Chardonnay which has notes of refreshing apricot and honeydew melon.
Dinner with Dad
If you want to honor your dad, and all that he does, a special dinner in Novato is one way to make great memories.
Make reservations at Chianti Cucina for authentic Italian cuisine in an elegant yet family-friendly environment. Try Boca Tavern for classic American dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients unique to California. Boca’s full bar offers handcrafted cocktails, Napa Valley wines and draft beers.
Consider celebrating dad at Hilltop 1892. The award-winning restaurant will welcome Chef Mario, who will be preparing delicious steak specials. For rotisserie meats and fresh seafood, choose Wildfox. We recommend the bistro steak frites, with a glass of their own Wildfox Cabernet Sauvignon.
Getting Sweet with Desserts
Not every dad has a sweet tooth. But if yours does, make a decadent dessert part of his day.Take a trip to Teeny Cake, a delectable Novato bakery that specializes in sweet treats. Make sure to try their red velvet cake filled with cream cheese frosting for a daringly rich flavor. Feeding a crowd? Order a batch of delicious lemon cupcakes with a zesty buttercream frosting. Keep in mind, Teeny Cake recommends you order your desserts at least three days in advance.
Home is Where the Heart Is
Remember, your dad will love whatever you get him and enjoy whatever activities you have planned. You don’t need to travel far and wide for a memorable Father’s Day when home is where the heart is. Show dad you care with a treat he’ll enjoy, and think local this Father’s Day.
