So there I was, running around in a fog like a new mother (see Sleep Deprivation), when I noticed a new shop open on Riverside Boulevard. How long had it been there without my noticing? Turns out, not that long. Just open two weeks, Dish: The Shop on Riverside is like a dream come true for me! It's only three blocks from my house and sells vintage dishware and chocolates. They also have a display of photographs of vintage ware and a small museum of cooking gadgets. I've already been there three times and am starting to become obsessed!

Cecilia Gray and Lee Anderson, former professors at Sac State, have been working on this shop concept for a while now. Cecilia has been collecting mid-century kitchenware and china for 25 years as the owner of an old house in Land Park. Now retired, but not ready for leisure, Cecilia and Lee began designing the shop space five months ago. With Lee's experience as an interior designer, they have crafted a lovely shop that showcases the pieces for sale in gorgeous fashion. In this space formerly occupied by a landscape design business (that always had its shades drawn), there are now bright displays and a variety of tables set as if for impending dinner parties.

In the middle of the store are shelves that comprise the small museum: one of gleaming toasters and the other of waffle makers. These will change, but always be focused on mid-20th century design. There's an entire section of cocktail shakers and glasses, and another of beautiful silver candy dishes (perfect for those chocolates you seem to keep buying). And, conveniently, they sell the chocolates too. There are award-winning XOX truffles from San Francisco, truffles and chocolates made in vintage molds from the Candy House in Davis, and an even more local selection from Capital Confections of Sacramento. (The XOX truffles are also available at Whole Foods, but for much more than they cost at Dish.)

Cecilia plans to have special displays throughout the year, as well as Second Saturday exhibits. For February, she'll showcase local black artists and amethyst glassware. There will also be an upcoming display of dolls from the 40s and 50s. If you're looking for a specific china or crystal pattern, let them know and they may have it in stock or know where to look. There are cabinets throughout the store packed with other items as well. And Cecilia pointed out that 95% of the pieces they sell are American made, since the U.S. didn't import much china and kitchenware until after the 50s. They also have reference books and some cookbooks that you can consult or buy. Oh--and when I was there yesterday, Cecilia and a friend mentioned that they had heard that some Land Park residents used to have a regular martini party. Dish may revive that to showcase some of its incredible barware--and just for fun.

If you want to get in before Christmas, then act fast. They're only open today and tomorrow, 11 to 6, and then will be closed from this Sunday until after January 1st. At that point, they'll resume regular Wed-Sat hours (11 to 6). There's nothing like this in the Sac area, so you've got to see it for yourself. And prices are quite reasonable!

2747 Riverside Blvd.
916-448-4828