Good Morning Tri-Valley! Are you ready for Thanksgiving next week? I’m sure not!
Best Date Night 3-Course Meal in the Tri-Valley for Under $60?
Aama’s - the FIRST Nepalese Restaurant in the Tri-Valley!
13th Annual Warm Coat Drive - We Need YOUR help!
Holiday Market - 20 Vendors and Photo Op with the Grinch!
Tip-a-Cop for Special Olympics at Zephyr Grill & Bar this Thursday!
Around the Valley
Presented by Pasta’s Trattoria
Date Night Redefined at Pasta’s Trattoria in Downtown Pleasanton
Have you tried the 3-Course Dinner Specials at Pasta Trattoria in downtown Pleasanton? I went last weekend with family and friends and we had the best meal. A fresh salad, a Prime NY Strip with bacon-wrapped prawns, and dessert — all for under $60. Truly unheard of around here.
Not into steak? They offer the same deal with a delicious Lobster & Jumbo Prawn Risotto. Or you can stick with their classic Italian menu — pasta, pizza, and all the cozy favorites. They also have a full bar with craft cocktails and an approachable wine list featuring Napa, Paso, and Livermore picks.
If you’re planning a date night, make Pasta’s your next stop — they’ve been in downtown Pleasanton for 25 years, so you know they’re doing something right!
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Nepalese Food Just Arrived in the Tri-Valley - You Definitely Need to Check Out Aama’s Kitchen!
I’m so excited to welcome the first Nepalese restaurant to the Tri-Valley! With a successful location already in Hayward, Aama’s Kitchen officially opened last week in the Chardonnay Shopping Center on East Ave — right next door to Terra Mia — and it’s such a fantastic addition to Livermore.
So… what is Nepalese food?
It’s wonderfully diverse, with influences from neighboring India and China — which is also why you’ll see some favorite Indian dishes on the menu. But Nepalese flavors have their own unique charm that sets them apart.
Let’s dig in!
Ambience & Service: Longtime locals will remember this spot as the former China Villa space, but Aama’s has completely refreshed it. The space feels brighter, more inviting, and full of warmth. The service was exceptional — it’s a family-owned restaurant, and you’ll immediately feel that from the moment you walk in.
Drinks: A basic lineup of soft drinks, wine, and beer — but do yourself a favor and order the milk tea, especially on these chilly winter days!
Food: I’ve loved Nepalese cuisine for years, so I knew I needed the Momos. For everything else, I let KC (the owner) and his family guide me — and they did not disappoint.
Pani Puri: Light, crispy shells filled with spiced potatoes, topped with a tangy sauce you pour in before eating the whole thing in one perfect bite.
Steamed Chicken Momo: Classic Nepalese dumplings — tender, flavorful, and honestly something I could eat every day.
Chicken Kathmandu Sekuwa: Chicken marinated in mint, garlic, yogurt, lemon, and cilantro, then cooked in a clay oven. So tasty.
Chicken Tikka Masala: My husband insisted… and he was right. Rich, flavorful, and perfect with the garlic naan.
The Verdict: Aama’s Kitchen is a fantastic new addition to Livermore and the Tri-Valley. It’s family-owned, full of heart, and brings a truly unique cuisine to our local dining scene. If you’re looking to try something new — or revisit Nepalese favorites — you’re going to love it.
13th Annual Warm Coat Drive
It’s time for Connect California Homes’ 13th Annual Warm Coat Drive, and this one is close to my heart.
As the weather turns colder, so many families in our community could use a little extra warmth. Each year, Connect California Homes teams up with Hively to collect clean, gently used winter coats for children, teens, and adults across the East Bay — and every single donation truly makes a difference.
A coat might seem small, but to someone facing a tough season, it can mean comfort, safety, and the feeling that their community cares about them.
Here are this year’s details:
📅 Saturday, December 6th, 2025
⏰ 9:00AM – 12:00PM
📍 4151 W Las Positas Blvd, Pleasanton
Clean, gently used coats of all sizes are welcome — kids, teens, and adults. Please RSVP here if you can make it on December 6th!
Can’t make it? There will be a drop-off bin at Porky’s Pizza Palace (Pleasanton) from Nov 30 – Dec 7.
Let’s come together and wrap our neighbors — and our community — in warmth this season.
20+ Local Makers, Food, Photos with the Grinch This Saturday!
Flaca’s is at it again! What a great event this will be on Saturday as 20 local makers, Marty’s Food Truck and so much more will be in downtown Livermore helping you get ready for the holidays! 9am-2pm at 1848 First St - it’s pet friendly, so bring your pooch! Plus who needs Santa when you take photos with the Grinch!
Tip-a-Cop at Zephyr Grill & Bar this Thursday to Help Raise Money for the Special Olympics
This Thursday, 11/20 — come support something truly special in downtown Livermore!
The Livermore Police Department will be teaming up with the service staff at Zephyr Grill & Bar for a night of giving back. Officers will be helping serve tables and collecting special tips — and 100% of those donations will go directly to Special Olympics Northern California.
These funds support year-round sports training and competitions for children and adults with intellectual disabilities — programs that build confidence, connection, and joy.
If you’re heading out for dinner, this is such a meaningful way to make a difference.
Love how our partners are featured each week? If you’d like your business or event showcased in Tri-Valley Explorer, submit this form or email me at [email protected]
Around the Valley
A brand-new Italian restaurant just opened in Danville! Taverna Sorrentina debuted last week, and with all three owners hailing from Italy, you know this spot is going to be the real deal.
Alamo nonprofit Fostering Wishes is looking for volunteers to help local foster children feel seen, supported, and celebrated this holiday season. Such a great way to give back.
Have you heard about Pleasanton’s new “self-service” gift shop? ShopConsciously lets you browse and purchase handmade artisan goods using a self-service kiosk — a super fun addition downtown.
The Bah Humbug 5K is returning to San Ramon! Whether you’re running for time or dressing up with friends in your festive best, it’s always a blast.
Wingen Bakery is hosting its Wingen Wonderland Holiday Market on Saturday, December 13th with vendors, treats, and a special holiday menu. Mark your calendars — this one will be cozy and delicious!
