The senses are a driving force for many, and none are more demanding than the sense of taste. It is the driving force that compels the young and young-at-heart to seek out new and exciting ways to satisfy their culinary desires. And Lodi and its neighboring areas are willing to oblige.

Overview: Between the various eateries, cinema, olive oil, cheese and wine tasting, shopping and more, Downtown Lodi is the place to be. You can grab a bite with friends at one of the various restaurants that serve delicacies ranging from sushi to burgers, sample some sweets at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory or sip Zin at one of the many tasting rooms. Then enjoy some shopping before ending your day.

Lodi-area drinking establishments:

Favorite dishes: Oh, man — that’s a hard one. I usually opt for Lodi’s fresh gems. Here are a few of my regulars: The edamame hummus with a plate of olives, feta and warm Naan bread from Crush Kitchen, 115 S. School St., No. 13 (holy cow — it’s painful when you have a craving on days when the restaurant is closed); the JJ Fiori Caprese (mozzarella, tomato, basil pesto, romaine and red onions on fresh-baked herb focaccia with balsamic and olive oil) from Fiori’s Butcher Shoppe, 400 W. Lodi Ave., is like summer in my mouth; any salad from Bon Appetit, 1012 W. Lodi Ave., though my favorite is the Baja chicken salad; if I’m going out for dinner and want something more unique, I’ll step in to Alebrijes, 10 W. Oak St., to see what’s new.

What happens when you cross a winemaker with a passion for his heritage and a chef who considers food an artful experience?

Local artists, chefs and vintners will take center stage on morning news programs starting this weekend to promote the area and the Lodi Wine Stroll taking place on April 13.

It seems tailgate parties are no longer just for football games. 

Four years ago, when Stacy Lister and her daughter, Amaris, wanted to go out to eat, there were few options in Lodi. Her daughter has celiac’s disease, which means she cannot eat wheat, rye or barley.

Zumba let people shake it like they did as teenagers

News-Sentinel staff share their wish lists for Christmas.

Hundreds of cyclists invade Downtown Lodi this Sunday, July 15, for the city’s annual Cycle Fest, which will feature food, prizes and exciting biking races throughout the day.

Alebrijes Mexican Bistro: 10 W. Oak St., Lodi. 209-368-1831

If hunger is your driving motivation, Lodi and its surrounding areas have a multitude of flavors to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites

Cinco de Mayo, a day that celebrates Mexican culture, food and drink, is becoming quite the financial fiesta for local businesses as well.

Local bars and restaurants are celebrating Cinco de Mayo with parties revolving around beer and good eats. Here is what you can find today at some of your favorite local spots:

Easter and hail! Who knew? The weather has driven most of us crazy, but the garden has come through! Now the white dogwood in front of the kitchen window is a lacy curtain framing a view of purple wallflowers, bluebells, red and pink azaleas, and a yellow euryops.

The mission of Joe Serna Jr. Charter School is to create an educational opportunity of choice that offers kindergarten through eighth-grade students an exemplary education that guides them toward lifelong learning, self-motivation and responsible citizenry.

The strong scent of cinnamon and the buzz of voices spilled out through the entrance of the annual Lodi Spring Wine Show on Saturday.

Who doesn't like live cooking demonstrations, shopping with a glass of wine or enjoying an outing at a local favorite with friends?