Westlake Anniversary

While this was a major milestone anniversary — 45 years — we kept it low key as we’re celebrating this summer with a big trip, (more on that when it’s closer).

We went to Westlake, a quirky suburb just south of us, in Daly City.

We like to walk this neighborhood, admiring the unique mid-century homes…

Developed by Henry Doelger, Westlake is notable for its 1950’s architecture, created by a team of designers to encompass nearly every building in the development. While there are many unique homes like the ones above, the majority of homes are known for architectural blandness, exemplified by its endless rows of boxy houses, which were the inspiration for the folk song “Little Boxes” an anti-conformity anthem of the 1960’s.

You can see why ~~ here’s a photo (not mine) from the air.

There’s even a very cool book about the development.

Westlake is also home to one of our favorite restaurants ~~ Westlake Joe’s.

Opened since 1956, it went through an extensive renovation a few years back, which kept and enhanced the original style and mid-century feel.

It still has much of it’s original menu, known for steaks, classic Italian, and retro cocktails.

It seems most of the Bay Area flocks to Westlake Joe’s as reservations are almost impossible. So, we clean up, don our best duds and walk-in ~~ we’re never turned away.

Just take a look at the interior… classic bar, plush seating, even the old menu covers have been re-created.

The food is always great and yes, it’s expensive, what restaurant isn’t these days? For such a special occasion – we threw the budget out the window and enjoyed glasses of red wine, a nice perfectly cooked, small steak (me) and a huge plate of lasagna (Husband). We ended our meal with the best dessert I have ever eaten – really my absolute favorite. Warm butter cake – sigh.

So what does 45 years together feel like?

Well, it certainly doesn’t seem like 45 years ago we were this young and excited.

I’m laughing because Husband hurt his ring finger playing volleyball a few days before, and it was still sore. He winced and was in pain when I put his wedding ring on. Later, as we were formally posing for the photo above he said he hoped it wasn’t a warning.

Happy Anniversary to my cute Husband, partner, friend ~~ still making me laugh every day.