Browsing in Burlingame: check out new shops, Italian treats, and movies under the stars

Sunset, August, 2006 by Kendra Smith

In the tug-of-war between Burlingame's chains and local merchants, the real winners are visitors. A whole crop of independent stores has popped up lately, and a number of boutiques from San Francisco have ventured south. The new mix adds fresh energy to downtown. Yet wholesomeness is in evidence at summer movies in the park, proving that even with the metropolitan move-in, Burlingame still retains its hometown heart.

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SHOP Fortezza. WHAT: Run by a local, the home store mingles contemporary furniture and retro accents with original artwork and bold pottery. WHEN: Tue-Sun. WHERE: 269 Primrose Rd.; 650/685-6211.

Leela. WHAT: Stylish workout wear, plus drapey bamboo-blend outfits and soft Ts with nature-inspired designs. WHEN: Open daily. WHERE: 1314 Burlingame Ave.; 650/685-8330.

Therapy. WHAT: The suburban outpost of this edgy retailer is the place for sushi magnets, boomerang ashtrays, and Barcelona chairs. WHEN: Open daily. WHERE: 264 Lorton Ave.; 650/375-0678.

GO Washington Park. WHAT: Good for a picnic anytime, with kid-friendly movies screened outdoors once a month in summer. Arrive early, blankets and low chairs in hand, to get a spot and buy fresh popcorn. WHEN: Movies at 8:15 p.m. Jul 29, Aug 12, and Sep 9. HOW MUCH: Free. WHERE: 850 Burlingame Ave.; www.burlingame.org or 650/558-7300.

EAT Crepevine. WHAT: The covered front patio is a great place for lunch; generous portions make sharing easy. WHEN: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. HOW MUCH: $. WHERE: 1310 Burlingame Ave.; 650/344-1310.

Piazza Italia Cafe. WHAT: The aroma of toasting bread and murmurings of Italian emanate from the kitchen of this cozy locals' secret. Have the panini. WHEN: Lunch Mon-Sat, dinner Thu-Fri. HOW MUCH: $. WHERE: 321 Primrose Rd.; 650/343-4444.

Tea Celsius. WHAT: Break for a creamy iced vanilla chai and a warm chocolate waffle. WHEN: Open daily. HOW MUCH: $. WHERE: 283 Lorton Ave.; 650/685-1288.

INFO

Burlingame is 15 miles south of San Francisco. Downtown's main drag is Burlingame Ave. Park at metered lots on Park Rd., Primrose Rd., and Lorton Ave. or take Caltrain.