Ettore’s European Bakery & Restaurant Patio Misting System Adds To It’s Allure

Ettore’s, with several boutique shoppes throughout the Sacramento region, is renowned as one of the area’s most exclusive and exquisite boulangeries and patisseries. With a storied history dating back to 1985, this family-owned bakery has consistently delivered artisanal pastries and bread that are nothing short of exceptional. To be treated to an Ettore masterpiece is truly an honor and Sacramento area residents pride themselves on serving Ettore offerings. Ettore’s has also become a destination for discerning foodies seeking award-winning dishes served at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Sunday brunch is also a big draw where guests can casually dine under the patio misting system at their Roseville location for an al fresco-styled eatery experience.

Let Them Eat Cake… & Everything Else
Their cake, cookie and pastry offerings are nothing short of spectacular, with a selection that transports you to a slice of France in the heart of Sacramento. Due to the high demand for Ettore’s cakes, it is advisable to place orders well in advance, especially for significant events and during popular celebration seasons. Ettore’s commitment to excellence and its ability to deliver cakes that not only meet but exceed customer expectations contribute to its continued popularity in the Sacramento area.
Ettore’s also showcases their pastries, including delectable croissants (warmly, flaky, and buttery), alongside a host of other French pastries like eclairs, tarts, and macarons. Each pastry is a work of art, meticulously prepared by skilled bakers who uphold the highest standards of craftsmanship.

Offering a wide array of baked goods as well as burgers, soups, salads, pizza and more, Ettore’s Café is a one-stop destination for all things sweet and savory. Their boulangerie selection includes a diverse range of bread, from classic baguettes to hearty whole-grain loaves, each crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail. The quality and consistency of their bread are unmatched, and locals often praise the crispy crust and tender crumb of their products. Ettores team also captured the area’s top prize winning the Sacramento’s Burger Battle, cementing their reputation as a culinary destination.

A Patio Misting System Creates a Cool Place to Hang Out
Beyond their impeccable creations, Ettore’s also offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with friendly staff that draws customers in and keeps them coming back. Charming decor includes a generous patio misting system to welcome outdoor diners while creating a cool ambiance that complements the exceptional food. When the weather gets hot the patio misting system attracts diners to hang out for a while to enjoy their food and socialize in comfort. In the Sacramento region, Ettore’s is a true gem, celebrated for its commitment to using high-quality ingredients, innovative recipes, and a dedication to perfection.

Brahma Bar & Grill Has “Clucking Good” Cooling Misters

Brahma Bar and Grill is tucked in, literally a corner, near the vibrant Fair Oaks mural in the charming Old Fair Oaks Village. But don’t let that fool you…it’s “clucking good”. Fair Oaks Village has a vintage feel with boutique-styled, street-lined retail and dining establishments. The area is also known for its abundance of wild chickens that have become the defacto Village Mascots. After delicately navigating the parking situation in Fairs Oaks Village, on your approach to Brahma, it is not uncommon to cross clucking chickens or colorful roosters making their uninhibited rounds around town. They may also be found wistfully gazing at the cooling misters on their favorite restaurant patio…well, at least, we think so!!

Fresh, Tasty, & Refreshing
Brahma is a great place to meet with friends and family over tasty food and spirits. It’s a casual apres-river outdoor dining & cozy bar with outdoor cooling misters…or a fabulous evening meet-up with heat lamps and warm lighting depending upon the season. Look out for fun events throughout the year including prix fix dinners, kid’s activities, trivia nights, and live music. You can also plan your own event… just reach out for details. Brahma , is, at once, comfortable and upscale, due to its fresh ingredients; attentive, friendly, staff; and an every-changing menu that serves up delicious dishes.

cooling misters brahma

 

#EatatBrahma: Koolfog Favorites

Main Menu:
We couldn’t decide!!
BABY BACK RIBS, (half rack) or (full rack) – Slow-smoked pork baby back ribs, topped with house made BBQ sauce, and served with French fries and cole slaw
OR
FISH AND CHIPS – Served with French fries, cole slaw, and tartar sauce

Cocktail + Wine Menu:
Not just Beer & Wine, Sip & Savor Soooo Many Sensational Spirits
BRAHMA OLD FASHIONED – Woodford Reserve Bourbon Whiskey, Demerara Syrup, Angostura Bitters, Orange Bitters
OR
SUNSET IN SACRAMENTO – Empress 1908 Gin, Aperol, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Nitty’s Guava Cider, served with edible flowers

Lunch Menu + Kids’ Menu:
Thank Goodness We didn’t have to choose!!
OPTION 1 (CHOOSE ONE)
2 Brisket Tacos
2 Fish Tacos
2 Mesquite Chicken Tacos
Half Brisket
French Dip Sandwich

OPTION 2 (CHOOSE ONE)
Soup of the Day
Brisket
Chili
House Salad
Caesar Salad
Macaroni and Cheese

Happy Hour Menu:
SHARE, Enough Said!!Chicken Wings
Spinach Artichoke Dip
Ahi Bites
Garlic Pesto Fries

Some of the Best Outdoor Misting Systems in Midtown Sacramento

Sacramento Midtown’s Cantina Alley has one of the area’s best outdoor misting systems to beat the heat while celebrating the finest in Mexican culture and cuisine. This vibrant, award-winning, restaurant location comes alive with sights, sounds, and tastes in an authentic tribute to Mexican tradition. Visitors can’t help but immerse themselves in the festive cantina atmosphere, soaking up the setting and savoring the tantalizing aromas that can transport guests to the bustling streets of Mexico City. Colorful street art, flickering string lights, and rustic wooden tables and chairs create an Instagram-worthy scene that beautifully blends traditional Mexican aesthetics with contemporary design.

 
Seen & Scene around the Cantina

Cantina “presencia de america latina” mural
“Presencia de América Latina (Presence of Latin America), also known as Integración de América Latina (Integration of Latin America) is a mural painted by Mexican artist Jorge González Camarenaheme that represents the unity and brotherhood of the different Latin American cultures….This mural was impressively recreated at Cantina Alley by local legendary artist Shaun Burner & Miguel Perez. It is located in our staff parking area, facing 24th Street.”

Outdoor Misters at Cantina AlleyCantina “perrito” Rooftop Dog
An ode to the Mexican abundance of Mexican dogs that find their perch upon rooftops to guard as well as welcome.

Cantina “VOCHITO” VW Taxi
An actual auto makes an artistic statement featuring popular Latin local transportation.

Cantina “Paletero” Cart
Patrons can grab a tasty street treat from straight from the cart!

El Santo Mural
A can’t miss fantastic homage to Mexico’s cultural comic phenom.

 

Mezcal, Margaritas & A Magnificent Menu

drinks at cantina alleyFeaturing fruit as a canvas for creating delicious cocktails and a variety of Mexican craft beers, the margherita’s are to die for and mezcal mixes are sipping perfection. Midtown’s Cantina Alley offers a delightful menu showcasing the rich flavors of Mexico. From classic street tacos to mouthwatering enchiladas, the food at Midtown’s Cantina Alley is prepared with care and precision, using high-quality ingredients to ensure that each bite is an explosion of zesty taste.

Don’t Miss:
The Cantina Cocketeleria: a bold list of signature cocktails including Signature Cantina Margarita made with 100% Blee Agave Tequila, Fresh Lime Juice, Organic Agave Nectar, with a Salt Rim and different flavors choices.

The House Elote: commonly called Mexican Street Corn, grilled and smothered in a creamy mayo sauce and topped with chili powder, cheese and lime.

Beyond the food and music, Cantina Alley also hosts special events and cultural celebrations throughout the year. Popular happenings include Mexican Independence, Dia de los Muertos and Cinco de Mayo, offering an opportunity for the community to come together and experience the richness of Mexican culture firsthand.

The Best Outdoor Misting System Sets the Tone for An Al Fresco Party
outdoor misting system cantina alleyWhat sets Midtown Cantina Alley apart is its dedication to fostering a sense of comfort and community. Part of this commitment is providing the best outdoor misting system to make guests cool and comfortable on the cantina bar and patio spaces. Laced around the rooftop structures, misting lines and fans provide the perfect ambient environment for optimum revelry. This kind of high-pressure, evaporative cooling technology can be tricky to customize for such a dynamic environment. However, when working with an industry leader such as Koolfog, creating the best outdoor misting system is a sound investment.

In addition, the communal seating arrangement encourages patrons to strike up conversations with strangers, fostering an atmosphere of warmth and conviviality. Live music, often featuring traditional Mexican bands or local talents, adds to the vibrant energy of the place. It’s not uncommon to find patrons dancing to the infectious rhythms, turning Cantina Alley into a microcosm of celebration.

outdoor misting system sacramento

 

Drake’s Brewing Company – The Barn West Sacramento

outdoor mistersDrake’s, The Barn, West Sacramento is a restaurant and beer garden known for its vibrant and diverse gathering scene near the Sacramento River. Located in West Sacramento’s Bridge District the two-acre area is a popular and versatile destination spot with a fun outdoor atmosphere cooled by misters during warmer weather. Lawn chairs, fire pits, food and drink draw a festive crowd with different entertainment events including yoga at sunset in the adjacent meadow, live music, outdoor movies and daily themes that spice up the attractive venue.

Daily Promos at Drake’s: The Barn through 2023
TUESDAY – Truckin’ Taco Tuesdays (various food truck specials)
WEDNESDAY – Pizza & Pint Combo Deal
THURSDAY – Trivia Night
FRIDAY – Beer & Bourbon Special
SATURDAY & SUNDAY – Bucket o’ Beers

Drake’s Brewery began in the “brew-story” as an early Bay Area craft brew maker. It now has four locations including The Barn. This is Drake’s West Sac place to grab a cold one and relax. The location is also a stone’s throw from Sutter Health Park, the home of the Sacramento River Cats baseball team, making it a great game day stop. As summer ball season heats up, fans can be found lounging under the misters in, what can be described, as a tailgate affair.

Drake’s craft beer offering is extensive featuring a variety of house beers, specials, and guest beers as well as cocktails, spirits, ciders. Farm-to-fork dining includes fresh and seasonal ingredients with a rich display of pizzas, tacos, and brunch fare to be found. Guests can, also, saddle up to the YO?LO! Food Truck for sandwiches, sides, and more. The Barn is dog-friendly, and kids are welcome to share in the stellar bites sure to excite little ones.

Every Saturday and Sunday* from 10AM-2PM enjoy brunch specials and beats starring some of our favorite local DJs

  • THE PITCHER’S MOUND LOADED BREAKFAST SKILLET – Eggs, country potatoes, cheddar/mozzarella blend and mushrooms. Topped with cilantro lime crema, guacamole, green onions, and cilantro.
  • FRENCH TOAST – Thick slices of french toast topped with whipped butter, and a berry compote.
  • THE BARN BRUNCH SANDO – Fried egg, hash browns, cheese, bacon, soft herb medley.
    pepper jam.
  • BREAKFAST BURRITO – Barn potatoes, soft scrambled egg, bacon & cheese blend in a flour tortilla. Served with house salsa.
  • KIDS FRENCH TOAST STIX – Served with fruit salad.
    Brunch runs from 10AM-2PM, pizza & burger service starts at 12PM, and all other food items are available at 2PM when brunch ends.

outdoor misters sacramentoDrake’s The Barn in West Sacramento is a unique and vibrant destination that seamlessly blends food, drink, and entertainment to create a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Nestled along the Sacramento River, this rustic-chic establishment has become a local favorite and a must-visit for tourists exploring the region.

With its scenic views of the river, a commitment to sustainability, and to making guests comfortable with the installation of outdoor misters, Drake’s The Barn is a true gem in West Sacramento, offering a delightful blend of flavors and experiences.

A Rooftop Misting System Fitted To Attract Hungry “Birds”

We’ve all heard the saying, “eat like a bird” to insinuate that someone doesn’t eat much. However, the truth is exactly the opposite. On average, birds eat approximately 1/2 to 1/4 of their body weight every day. Another cool bird fact pertains to a place for the comfortable care of amazing birds…an aviary. According to search vocabulary, “An aviary is a large enclosure for confining birds, although bats may also be considered for display. Unlike birdcages, aviaries allow birds a larger living space where they can fly.” Finally, a “nest” is a cozy place or home for birds, oft situated in lofty places. Well, the creative restauranteurs of Darling Aviary have captured this aesthetic perfectly in the design of a chic rooftop café and bar with colorful décor, and a misting system to keep everyone cool.

Located on K street near the DOCO – Downtown Commons and the adjacent to Sacramento’s Golden One arena (which is home to basketball’s Western Conference favorites, the Sacramento Kings), Darling Aviary is an inviting enclave with a lively social setting. Doubling as a cool spot for cocktails as well as good eats, those 21 and over, enter the building to find themselves enveloped in a vintage styled art deco type of bar. Birdcages can be found throughout as dining guests with reservations (definitely recommend making reservations ahead of time) are escorted to a very discreet elevator at the back of the lounge. A sense of mystery ascends as unknowing guests are whisked upward to emerge onto a sunny rooftop space that is festive and fun.’

rooftop misting system sacramento

Of Birds, Brunch, And Plentiful Plates To Make People Soar With Pleasure

Must Have: The King’s Hawaiian Toast

The “Nest” is the rooftop space of Darling Aviary and is a feast for the eyes while allowing for the gracious savoring of truly delightful fare. Our Koolfog taste team (which lives for dining under a totally effective misting system…like ours), had the opportunity to enjoy a lovely Sunday rooftop brunch. The environment was full of flare with many parties dressed in honor of the movie “Barbie”™. Bright colors matched the colorful menu, and the presentation of each plate was so pretty.  The space is decorated with bird murals, birdcages and flowers with a state-of-the-art misting system expertly placed to provide optimum cooling. The outdoor bar faces table-tops packed with happy customers. No bats, just a fresh take on artisan cuisine with an ambiance that rivals the best.

 

Koolfog Misting Systems Add To The Scene

Darling Aviary brings the heat when it comes to cocktails, food, and character. Their unique take on the “Nest” is a whole mood.  But when that heat is affected by the Sacramento Central Valley Regions actual sweltering temperatures…such a vibe can be sizzled.  The mist and fog features create a visual sensation and what better way to make sure all their “birds” are cool and cozy. Koolfog misting systems and fans enable restaurants to do what they do best…create dining experiences to come back for.  Come home to the “Nest” at Darling Aviary…you won’t be disappointed.

koolfog misting systems sacramento restaurant

 

Restaurant Remodel? Consider Outdoor Misters

Taking over a restaurant is a challenging endeavor. Taking over a restaurant and remodeling is daunting. Taking over a 35 year-old restaurant in a historical building with a vision for its renovation is a valued commitment. Michael Sanson, owner of Plank Craft Kitchen and Bar, has made his mark on the local Sacramento regional restaurant scene with his well-respected, popular culinary hot spot, located in the Folsom Historic District. Rich in history, the Historic District began in the 1850’s and is a preserved representation of a Gold Rush era town. Set among old western styled buildings and weathered facades, upscale bistros, wine cafes & festive pubs mix with fashionable retail shops to attract visitors. This historic district has embraced modern amenities including commercial outdoor misters. Along this “strand”, guests are welcomed with outdoor misters on sidewalk eves, patios, and decks.

No stranger to the machinations of working with historical landmark buildings, Sanson recently took over the former Hacienda Del Rio Restaurant with a plan to rebrand the space, housed on the upper second floor of the Hacienda Building situated on the busy corner crossroads of Sutter and Riley Streets.  After investing in a significant face-lift, Hacienda Real Mexican Grill and Cantina opened Spring of 2023 with a menu offering appetizers, salads, soups, and traditional Mexican fare with a flair. The extensive bar features margaritas, mules, mocktails and bottled and draft beer.

outdoor misters sacramento

 

Hacienda Real Must Have:

 Vampiro Asada Tacos
Marinated steak + avocado salsa + cabbage + radish + oaxacan cheese + lime on crisp tortillas; Served with three (3) soft corn tortillas and served with rice and choice of beans.

Vampiro sparks visions of “vampires” and seems a mystery when applied to a menu item. So, what is a vampiro taco?  Imagine a recipe that takes a corn-tortilla, cooked on a grill until it turns crackly, then topped with a layer of melted cheese and added assorted protein toppings such as chicken, shrimp, and beef…like a lovingly tendered blend of a taco, a tostada, and a quesadilla.  This yummy “snack” is said to bloom from the streets in the Mexcian State of Sinaloa, with several ideas as to the origin of its unique name.

  • Some say the name tacos vampiros relates to the fanned-out wing shape of the grilled tacos.
  • The garlic added to the “protein topping” is considered “Dracula-repellent”…thus, the vampire reference.
  • It is, also, said that the dish vanquishes your hunger just like blood quenches thirst for a vampire.

Whether the shape, the garlic taste, or its satiating power, tacos vampiros is awesome!

The Patio Deck Is a Show-Stopper with Outdoor Misters
Hacienda Real’s face-lift includes a “new and improved” ambiance with updated interior décor, seating, and art to create a festive, yet beautiful environment. The remodel has made great use of the space so that the service flow is streamlined, and crowds can move around smoothly. The outdoor deck has been significantly enhanced and is the place to be “scene”.  On any given day, you will find a throng of customers enjoying an al fresco dining experience under the outdoor misters on the upper deck of Hacienda Real. Overlooking the Historic District, the deck is a gathering spot seen from the streets below and invites with a fun vibe.

outdoor misters folsom

The deck has been upgraded with a shaded cover complimenting the restaurant exterior. White patio lights, big wood beams, and black metal accent the “sun-screen” without deterring the open air feel. Outdoor misters mounted to fans and outdoor mister lines create a warm, welcoming environment with a cool and comfortable atmosphere. If you want to learn more about Koolfog’s state-of-the-art misting technology with expert design, manufacturing, and installation, visit www.koolfog.com.

Love Dining on Outside? There’s a great “misting system near me”!

Wouldn’t it be great if you could Google your way to find a “misting system near me” so you could determine which restaurants have the best misting systems on their outdoor patios? We think so too. We have found, however, that search engines point to big box retailers to purchase DIY misting kits before seeking out professional misting companies that are experts in their field. In fact, the best misting systems are commercial grade and use high-pressure pumps to deliver atomized droplets of mist that evaporatively cool the immediate are without leaving it wet.

Koolfog is known as a worldwide industry leader that designs, manufactures, and installs the best misting systems on the market. We have an impeccable reputation for using the highest quality materials and our first-class customer service. We help restaurants maximize their service space by making their outdoor spaces comfortable for their guests. That’s why our roster of restaurant clients is not only extensive but our misting systems have been featured in various media outlets as enhancing the outdoor dining experience.

In the Sacramento region, you can find a Koolfog “misting system near me” at many dining and brewpub patios throughout the valley. Delta breezes, fresh veggies, and craft beer signal summer-time staples in our “Farm to Table” capital. As we know, though, seasonal temps can be toasty. Because our clients trust our ability to provide them with the best misting systems around, grabbing a quick bite or sipping on a favorite beverage al fresco is a welcome treat.

The Best Misting System, Best of Brew & More!

Urban Roots Brewery and Smokehouse, located in the mid-town of Sacramento, is a local hot spot. This independent craft brewery and smokehouse have a festive atmosphere and an outdoor patio scene with a cool vibe.  A large, colorful mural gives an artsy flare to the terrace that faces the covered outdoor patio. Outdoor string lights illuminate the space, so you can’t miss the “misting system near me” as it surrounds the patio structure.

misting systems near me sacramento

Koolfog takes great care in designing an outdoor cooling solution that meets the needs of outdoor dining establishments. We ensure that the misting nozzles’ position provides optimal coverage without excessive moisture. We place the high-pressure pump (or pumps depending on the size and scale of the facility) in discreet places to minimize noise but with easy access for maintaining the system.

Urban Roots Brewery and Smokehouse is a destination experience with special events, beer releases, and Tuesday Happy Hour pricing.  Visitors can tap into their beers (they also have a wine list) and taste from their mouth-watering menu.

 

Dining Under the Misters

Sip: Love Your Roots IPA
A new series of hop focused beers we are using to highlight new hop varieties, farming partners, brokers and new and innovative hop products or technique.

Snack: Pretzel
A vegetarian delight with a side of brown mustard and beer cheese

Splurge: All The Smoke
includes 1/4 lb angus brisket, 1/4 lb pulled pork,1/4 lb. turkey, 1/2 lb. pork belly burnt ends, 1/2 lb. pork ribs, 1/2 jerk chicken, one hot link and one bratwurst plus your choice of (4) 8 oz. sides, 4 pc. bread and house pickles.

urbanrootsbrewing.com

Patio Misters, Pizza & Pints at kitchen747 Bar & Grill

At any given time, kitchen747 is packed with a community of people who come to this Roseville neighborhood locale to socialize, watch sports, eat good food, grab a drink, and play games. The restaurant is a friendly destination designed to entertain palettes as well as past-times, offering ping-pong, shuffleboard, and corn hole. The interior setting has a warm and inviting ambiance with featuring earthy tones, rich woods, and brick. Its rustic charm blends with industrial and modern décor to create a hip vibe. Various sporting events create a backdrop above the bar area with a view of the expansive outdoor dining area. Cozy fire pits warm patrons during chilly weather while patio misters cool guests in the hottest seasons.

A Hub for Roseville Buffs
The restaurant has tons of seating and boasts a huge dining room as well as different outdoor spaces to congregate and indulge. The large patio has a loggia to provide shade with strategically placed misting nozzles set around the structure. On yet, another level up, the rooftop patio sets the scene for viewing sunsets, meeting up, and more. Designing a multi-level misting system can be a challenge. However, Koolfog’s design team is very skilled at handling complex systems and working with different architectural structures. kitchen747’s “penthouse” style area’s patio misters create a comfortable environment for checking out the festivities below as well as taking in the action at nearby Nela Luken Park. 

misters luken park

Nela Luken Park is also a Koolfog customer and another Roseville gathering spot. The park has a large open turf area with a unique water sculpture, featuring playground misting poles. The sculptured mist poles were built to resemble railroad ties in homage to Roseville’s railway history. Nela Luken Park, itself, has railroad tracks formed as paths leading to a central train turntable area…in this case, a round plaza where visitors can gather at to cool off and interact with playground misting poles.  After a day of recreational fun at the park, kitchen747’s expansive outdoor patio is the perfect perch to continue cooling off under the patio misters while grabbing a bite, sipping on a refresher, and catching a glimpse of the Sacramento Valley’s famous sunsets.

Of Parties and Playful Menu Selections
With so many spaces to celebrate, kitchen747 is a perfect place for hosting a party.  The staff provides itself on its top-notch customer service, so guests are in good hands entertaining guests. The restaurant also hosts events of its own, including beer pairing evenings. With over 20 craft beers on tap, they also have an impressive wine list and serve various craft cocktails and mocktails.  The menu is outstanding with different food categories highlighted with a clever play on words. In addition to seasonal menu fare, diners can order from items filed under fork optional, leafy greens, specialty pizzas, fork needed, from the ground, for our offspring (kids menu), desserts and brunch.

patio misters Roseville kitchen 474
 

Mimosa’s & Misters
Kitchen747 is also a fabulous spot to brunch. Brunch. That special weekend experience brings friends and family together to chat about the week’s happenings and share a meal and one of the brunch’s staple pleasers, a mimosa. Sipping a mimosa under patio misters is something to look forward to at kitchen747.  Served Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM to 2 PM, the brunch menu is quite diverse, with sweet and savory plates mingled with breakfast beverage favorites.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch. Food and Fun. There’s always something going on at kitchen747. Add this hot spot to your list of must-do’s!

 

Snooks in Sacramento Adds Commercial Misting System for Guest Comfort

One of the charms of visiting a vintage town is exploring the local treasures, including restaurants, boutiques, and family-owned businesses. The Historic District of Folsom, California, is filled with vintage charm and offers a memorable experience in one of our nation’s premier Gold Rush towns. Oft called “Old Town Folsom” on Sutter Street, this destination location celebrates the history of the Pony Express, the railroad, and developments along the American River Parkway. This historic district also embraces modern amenities, including commercial misting systems, to attract visitors.

Set among old western-styled buildings and weathered facades, upscale bistros, wine cafes & festive pubs mix with fashionable, retail shops and in the heart of Folsom’s Historic District, Snooks Candies & Chocolate Factory is a stand-out. Established in 1963 by John & Jeannine Snook, Snook’s is a confection aficionado’s dream. Hand-crafted specialty chocolates, truffles, toffee, butter brittle, caramel, and more offer an alluring sweet fest you can’t miss. A trip to Snooks, whether for a hot chocolate and piece of fudge in Fall or to enjoy an ice cream on a warm day, is always a treat.

During the pandemic, many food entities were forced to move their services outside and like many hot spots across the nation, proprietors of Sutter Street in Folsom were forced to provide for guests and employees while braving the elements. Inclement winter weather and sizzling Summer temperatures gave rise to creative solutions to make visitor experiences valuable. 

Jim & Renee Snook, the second generation of Snook family candy makers, are determined to give their patrons reason to linger a bit longer by installing a misting system to cool their customers on the patio walk surrounding their corner shop. In their first attempt, Snooks configured a DIY type, big box, low-pressure cooling kit that did not meet their expectations and left visitors wet from dripping moisture. 

Now, the Historic District of Folsom has come alive as people return to traditional routines, but they have come to expect elevated customer service and guest experience. Seeing this need, Jim & Renee decided to upgrade their misting system with a commercial grade, custom design by Koolfog. Koolfog configures a cool mist solution that allows for a high-pressure pump to be placed on the building rooftop with wrap-around stainless steel welded misting line and mist nozzles placed approximately 24” apart for optimum distribution. The misting system can be programmed on a timer to release atomized mist that essentially evaporates in the atmosphere to cool the ambient air rather than wet the surroundings. The results have been amazing. 

One of the rare features of this hometown chocolate shop is confections are made on view to the public for an interactive experience during the production of confections or enrobing of items along the 30-foot chocolate enrobing machine.

On any given day, the scene at Snooks comes alive with determined sweet tooths lining up to savor scrumptious delights as smiling faces happily lick their ice cream cones on benches outside. The misting system has added to the experience helping to draw more traffic to the chocolate factory with its refreshing visual appeal, inviting people in, and keeping them enjoying themselves a bit longer in the cool air. Nothing better than sharing a bonbon al fresco!!

The Snook’s have also noticed an interesting bonus benefit. No flies when the misters are running! Yes, you heard it. No flies. Snooks has always utilized an air curtain over the entrance doors and an outdoor fan above the doors to keep hot air out and cool air in with the added benefit of keeping insects away. Even with every effort to combat the critters, they occasionally found their way in. Placing Koolfog around the entire storefront has been very effective in deterring the insects. The addition of the Koolfog misting system seems to act as a defense screen…so no flies to take a bite out of the fun! Go to www.snookscandies.com to check out their sensational sweets!!

Patio Dining Takes Our Breath Away at The Waterboy

As a young girl, I delighted in my visits to my great aunt’s kitchen. There, she would give us lessons in cooking Northern Italian comfort foods that reflected her early family life around the table. Her recipes were not written down and her dishes were made with heart from ingredients she had on hand. Hand-crafting gnocchi di patate was one of my all-time favorite opportunities. Perched on little stools to reach her counter, we would discuss the quality of the potatoes to perfect the dough, the importance of simmering homemade sauce, and proper finger-to-fork rolling techniques. Despite our lumpy, oversized dumplings, those that children learn from, the best part was sitting down on her warm porch patio to savor the taste of this most amazing pasta plate.

My love of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine has not tapered over the years. In fact, my appetite for food, travel, and culture has led me to explore the many culinary attributes of regions both here and abroad.

So, imagine my delight when I discovered a wonderful Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in Midtown Sacramento. The Waterboy can be described as an upscale dining establishment with a seasonal menu celebrating both local flavors as well as the colorful cuisines of Northern Italy and Southern France. The Waterboy’s award-winning chef, Rick Mahan, has been a pioneer of the capital’s farm-to-fork scene and humbly states, “I’ve always taken a great deal of pride in highlighting food originating from a farm. Sourcing seasonal farm-fresh ingredients and curating local food with care has been one of the most satisfying accomplishments of my career.” Chef Mahan’s careful attention to creating fine fare has been extended to the venue’s design details and refined ambiance that make The Waterboy a standout. Mahan has not only created an exquisite menu that brings out the best flavors using the freshest ingredients, but his heartfelt cooking has created an experience reminiscent of those afternoons sharing memories over a plate of pasta.

I discovered The Waterboy when searching for a restaurant to take my BFF out for a special birthday lunch, a post-pandemic field trip of sorts, venturing farther than our Sac-sub-urban hangouts. While many restaurants closed due to the fall-out of Covid-19, I was happy to find The Waterboy had expanded its patio seating to accommodate mandatory outdoor dining. While we looked forward to perusing the thoughtful menu reviewed online, we had no idea our day would be transformational.

Upon arrival, we were escorted through a beautiful modern dining room onto a charming sidewalk patio that matched the light and airy nature of both the people and the place. While the temperatures were climbing, we were comfortably cooled by a custom patio misting system designed by Koolfog, experts in mist cooling. For Mahan, the addition of the misting system made the changes Covid brought to dining a bit easier. He says, “We had such limited seating (during the pandemic), and putting the misting system on our new outside dining spaces, definitely, helped to make it easier to sell reservations on the patio. It has visually made a difference as well. We get noticed, and people are set at ease when they see the mist because it fosters a sense of relief when it’s hot. It looks nice and has really worked to cool customers. We are, really, happy with the Koolfog system.”

patio misting at the waterboy sacramento

Dining under the misters, our birthday lunch began with a bit of bubbly as a friendly staff service person walked us through the specials of the day and asked about any dietary restrictions. While the menu left us with many mouth-watering choices, we fixated on the Potato Gnocchi description. Served in a Mushroom and Eggplant Bolognese with braised artichokes, sauteed garlic, and Reggiano cheese, the combination of ingredients and flavors sounded intriguing. We were not disappointed.

The gorgeous gnocchi smelled of heaven and made a pretty presentation on the plate. With every bite, there was a medley of tastes to compliment the complexity of flavor in our mouths. Yet, these were not the round dough balls of my youth. Chef Mahan’s pasta was petite in size, each artfully rolled and sauced to perfection. The little pasta pieces produced a dazzling pop of spice but worked in harmony as if in appreciation for capturing the essence of its Italian roots. At that moment, I took a breath, taking it all in… it made so much sense for us to be sharing this meal while sitting on The Waterboy’s rustic patio. Our table was set with crisp linens, being cooled by the soft, breezy air…this was the Mediterranean-influenced al fresco escape we had been yearning for… and with that, our post-pandemic milestone birthday lunch became so much more. By sharing the best of The Waterboy’s Italian comfort food, we were welcomed with a side trip down memory lane. Thank you, Chef Mahan; we look forward to many more foody adventures with your genius.