native americans

Counter at the 'ammatka cafe at Lawrence Hall

Dine on Native American Food with a View

Silvia

The Lawrence Hall of Science is bustling with kids during the summer camp classes. We came here to have lunch with a view at the ‘ammatka, an Ohlone cuisine inspired cafe. Since we weren’t here for the exhibits, we found ourselves taking a quick walk downstairs to the cafeteria. 

Two sandwiches from the ‘Ammatka Cafe at Lawrence HallThe menu is quite unusual with duck sandwiches and an Ohlone salad. But fear not, there are also the usual kid-friendly items such as grilled cheese and chicken nuggets. 

View of Berkeley, CAThe view overlooking Berkeley is also spectacular. It was easy to grab a table next to the window. 

‘Ammatka means “the dining hall” in Chochenyo, the first language spoken in the East Bay. 

 

Their opening hours are Wednesday to Sunday from 11 am – 3 pm. It is part of UC Berkeley’s ‘ottoy Initiative, whose mission is to foster an understanding of Ohlone culture and its people.  

Spice cupboard at the J. Gilbert Smith House, Los Altos

Get Some Old Recipes, Los Altos History Museum

Silvia

The new exhibit at the Los Altos History Museum is called: Seaweed, Salmon and Manzanita Cider. Until April 16, 2017 you can learn how the Native Americans prepared their food and valued their relationship with nature.

Recipe collection from the exhibit 'Seaweed, Salmon, and Manzanita Cider' at the Los Alto History Museum, Los AltosRight at the beginning they offer some recipes to take home. I came back with inspirations on  Rose Hip or Elderberry Syrup and how to cook Salmon on Redwood Sticks.

Thanks to a wonderful volunteer, I was also shown around the J. Gilbert Smith House.

The upstairs is currently home of the Raggedy Ann and Andy exhibit. Raggedy Ann and Andy collection at the J. Gilbert Smith House, Los AltosThe whole home has been outfitted with things from the early 1900s. The cupboards are stuffed with the packaging of this time. The sleeping quarters are upstairs, with toys and cloth to imagine the life of the former inhabitants.

You can find  the permanent exhibit: Crown of the Peninsula back in the museum on the second floor. This shows the usage of the land from the Ohlone Indians, to the Mexicans, to the early American settlers and orchard growers. What makes this collection most appealing for little children is the First St. model railroad or the signs that invite ‘Try us on’ or ‘Open me’.

Admission is free (donations are appreciated)

Opening hours are: Thursday – Sunday noon to 4

What is your favorite time period in history?