With Lafayette and two San Francisco locations, Chow has developed a loyal following of regular customers. So, it was not surprising that Danville folks eagerly awaited the opening of this eatery in 2009. Owners transformed the former Blockbuster at the corner of San Ramon Valley Boulevard and Railroad Avenue into a bright, loft-like space complete with cozy fireplace, open kitchen, and red leather booths that look out on downtown Danville. Trademark touches like cans of flatware and napkins maintain the casual, kid-friendly ambience. Service is easy and accommodating: for instance, omitting the shallot on your wild mushroom pizzette, if you prefer, and offering salads, pastas, soups, meat and seafood entrees in small plate portions.

A year later, this Chow location reflects the suburban ambience of Danville but, for the most part, the food and beverage offerings have maintained their All-American tummy-filling edge. The adult-friendly apps include wontons, fish tacos and four variations of their 8� pizzette; entr�e favorites like the Burger Royale and old-fashioned spaghetti and meatballs continue to please regulars. Organic salads, vegetarian dishes and a kid�s menu add even more flexibility for customers to leave satisfied. Of particular note is the back bar which includes an expansive selection of thoughtfully selected beers and wines, uncommon spirits and signature cocktails (including fun, nonalcoholic ones for the kids).

Service is as good as other Chow locations, if not better. Reflecting the post-soccer-game family clientele, the staff is exceptionally friendly with a good measure of humor and will chat you up and offer recommendations handily.

Given their hours, Chow Danville is a great late-night spot to meet friends for dessert and coffee on this side of the tunnel or sip an after-dinner drink with your honey in front of the fireplace.

http://www.chowfoodbar.com 445 Railroad Avenue, Danville, 925-838-4510 Hours: 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Sun.-Wed.; 7 a.m.-midnight Thurs.-Fri.; 8 a.m.-midnight Sat.