Chinatown Part 3: Nightlife

How to immerse yourself in Chinatown: (1) examine the produce and live markets in Stockton Street on a Saturday afternoon (where the locals do their shopping). Be ready to see live turtles, clogged streets, shouting matches and bargains. (2) explore the side streets at night and run into something unforeseen. Dive bars in Chinatown are small, dark and moody, with locals playing dice and visitors wandering in with curious looks on their faces.

Buddha Lounge

What's Special About it: 
Though tourists sometimes end up here, Buddha remains more of a local hang. Patrons can sip their drinks in front of Buddha (watching from behind the bar). 

What Customers Say: 
"The dopest bar in the entire neighborhood and personally (on this side of the city) weekdays especially. Looking for a low key place to chill with friends. Have a date? Chilling with friends? This is the place. The place to have great talks and laughs. Enjoy the atmosphere and the Buddha beers." 

What Else to Order:
Buddha Beer

Location:
901 Grant Ave

San Francisco, CA 94108

Neighborhood:
at Washington St 

Chinatown

Li Po Cocktail Lounge

What's Special About it: 
Classic local haunt that, with its David Lynch-like ambience, has become famous with the tourists. The dark, red room in the back is the place to perch yourself and watch the night's characters go by. 916 Grant Ave., (415) 982-0072,website.

What Customers Say: 
"Their speciality drink is a Chinese Mai Tai for $9.  Chick drinks aren't usually my thing, but I have to say, I wasn't expecting it to be good or to like it.  But I did." 

What Else to Order:
Chinese Mai Tai, Chinese whiskey

Location:
916 Grant Ave

San Francisco, CA 94108

Neighborhood:
at Washington St 

Chinatown

Chinatown Part 2: The Celebrations!

Here are some of the wondrous celebrations held in Chinatown!

1. Autumn Moon Festival: Also known the Mid-Autumn Festival. This festival takes place in September, (during the autumn equinox). Highlights: live entertainment such as martial arts, acrobats, Chinese opera, karaoke, music, dance and a youth talent contest.

2. Chinese New Year:  The Lunar New Year is celebrated with food, flowers, firecrackers and envelopes of "lucky money." It's a 2-week celebration that includes music events, street fairs and the Miss Chinatown USA pageant. It also culminates with a spectacular parade and a 160-foot-long dragon.

And the best part? The food that you eat right after the celebrations! Here's one Chinatown favorite that you shouldn't miss!

Hang Ah Tea Room

What's Special About it:
OLDEST DIM SUM RESTAURANT IN AMERICA. Opened in 1920, the colorful decor in this tiny spot reflects the equally colorful fare. Popular edibles include barbecue pork steam buns, shrimp dumplings, and sticky rice with pork.

What Customers Say:
I have to say this is one for the best dim sum I ever had. The service was excellent and the food quality was excellent. If you read reviews do give this place a chance I would not think twice.

What Else to Order:
Siumai (Pork & Shrimp Dumplings) & the Rabbit-Shaped HarGow Dumplings (Shrimp Dumplings)

Location:

1 Pagoda Pl
San Francisco, CA 94108

Neighborhood:
at Sacramento St 
Chinatown

Chinatown Part 1: A Spot For Tourists

They say there are two Chinatowns: One for the locals, the other to charm the tourists. They overlap and dance with each other, drawing more visitors annually than the Golden Gate Bridge.

It's popular because visitors look for something they won't find anywhere else. They come over to be stunned with visuals, enchanted with culture and stuffed with great food.

"You don't need an itinerary to tackle Chinatown. Wandering aimlessly, weaving between locals and ducking into shops is enough of a plan. Main Street for tourists is Grant Avenue, which is more about cheap and kitschy plastic Buddhas than the long heritage of Chinatown. It should definitely be seen, but moving on to the next block can be more rewarding."

Hunan Home's Restaurant

What's Special About it:
Hunan Home's Restaurant's standards have not dipped even though it has become tourist-heavy. They have the standard potstickers and spring rolls but also specialized dishes like the succulent bread called ningsi juen, steamed rolls that you can also order deep fried. Perfect with the Hunan spiced garlic prawns and orange beef.

What Customers Say:
"The thing about tChinatown, is that there are countless places to get chinese food. the only downside in the majority of these places is that whatever you order, it seems to all taste the same. That is not the case for Hunan Home's Restaurant."

What Else to Order:
Hot and sour soup, spicy garlic chicken and the pork fried rice

Location:
622 Jackson St
San Francisco, CA 94133

Neighborhood:
b/t Kearny St & Cooper Aly
Chinatown

House of Nanking

What's Special About it:
As it turns out, customers line up twice a day just to try the Shanghai-style cooking (and great noodles) at this restaurant -- just overlook the spare interior, long lines and brusque service.

What Customers Say:
"I was not sold on the idea of Chinese food for brunch so I walked in a skeptic and walked out a fan. The garlic green beans were phenomenal. The fried calamari had a refreshing yet rich lemon, butter sauce. The fried rice was very flavorful and the sesame chicken with sweet potatoes was delicious. I'll be back to try the impressive looking, exotic teas."

What Else to Order:
House Special Sesame Chicken and Calamari

Location:
919 Kearny St
San Francisco, CA 94133

Neighborhood:
b/t Jackson St & Columbus Ave 
Chinatown

Buttermilk Southern Kitchen: Recently Opened At Mission

The latest player on the Southern food scene: Buttermilk Southern Kitchen debuted recently at 23rd and Bryant.

What's Special About it:

A new resto from first-time restaurateurs Miguel de Ocampo and Jaime Chavez. They wanted to create an affordable option for the quickly gentrifying 24th Street corridor. Most dishes are under $18.

They also pride themselves on a DIY ethos, with pickles, bacon and butter (and buttermilk) made in-house. The menu offers chicken and waffles, smothered pork chops, shrimp and grits, and pimento cheese with housemade potato chips, all designed to pair nicely with a selection of eight draft brews and a handful of bottles.

What Customers Say:
"Great place!! We stop by today and try the very famous chicken and waffle , and let me tell you it was delicious . Crispy chicken and soft and juicy inside. Golden and well season, great waffles too . They have a great selection of beers as well"

What Else to Order:
Brunch brings benedicts and breakfast sandwiches.

Location:
2848 23rd St
San Francisco, CA 94110

Neighborhood:
b/t York St & Bryant St
Mission

The Castro Part 4: Places That Are Here To Stay

Like most SF neighborhoods, the Castro has history. While some of the places are new and trendy, there are a handful of diners that you can consider as "absolute fixtures" in the area. These places have occupied their spots for years (decades even), and offer a warm atmosphere, good set of clientele, and a taste of what the real Castro is all about.

Orphan Andy's

What's Special About it:
Open 2 hours. Awesome! The menu has typical diner items, breakfast options include omelettes, pancakes and French toast.

What Customers Say:
"Orphan Andy's does't pretend to be anything its not. What it does well, is good, cheap food. The ultimate convience between 2am and 11am when everything else is closed."

What Else to Order:
Double cheeseburger and mozzarella sticks 

Location:
3991 17th St
San Francisco, CA 94114

Neighborhood:
b/t Castro St & Hartford St
Castro

Cove Café

What's Special About it:
Good food, nice ambiance, free wifi, and the host is very friendly and hospitable.

What Customers Say:
"I ordered the Carnivore Scramble, and it was pretty good. Is there really much to complain about with eggs, cheese, Irish bangers, bacon, and ham? The bangers were pretty tasty. They had a peppery and earthy flavor from maybe coriander, sage, and nutmeg"

What Else to Order:
Buckwheat pancakes. Mimosas

Location:

434 Castro St
San Francisco, CA 94114

Neighborhood:
b/t 18th St & 17th St 
Castro

The Castro Part 3: The Finer Things

The Castro long lagged behind other SF areas in terms of culinary offerings and high end restaurants. About a decate ago, diners had little choice but to eat a slice of pizza or go to a greasy-spoon diner. Over the years, high-quality establishments emerged making the place fit in a city so snobbish about food. (But yes, you can still get that slice of pizza or cup of diner-grade joe).

Without furter ado, here are two dining places that will make you crave for more.

Frances

What's Special About it:
Be prepared to be on a 2-month waitlist just to get into this place. Or you can try to get a walk-in spot but be prepared to wait for a long, long time. But in the end, it will all be worth it. They say it doesn't matter what you order. It's also hard to recommend something in a place that changes the menu all the time. Just know that you will come out a very satisfied customer.

What Customers Say:
"Very good restaurant. Date night with my wife so it was a special night. Yes the tables are so closed to each other but it reminded me when I lived in France. The restaurant is small and they need to make money. It was noisy but I could still have a normal conversation with my wife.
The restaurant is decorated nicely and fits the San Francisco style."

What Else to Order:
 applewood smoked bacon beignets, chickpea fritters, corn 'beignets', and steak

Location:
3870 17th St
San Francisco, CA 94114

Neighborhood:

b/t Pond St & Noe St 

Castro

Eureka Restaurant & Lounge

What's Special About it:
This is one of the older places in the area, but they offer really good Southern food choices. A bit on the expensive site, you will surely love the food quality and the excellent service. Try the gnocchi dish with capers as well as the mushroom ravioli.

What Customers Say: 

"Our waiter Steven memorized all 14 of our party's names, while serving our drinks, attending to each of our needs, and having fun making jabs at us like deciding which of our friends was Dark and who was Stormy (Dark and Stormy was a name of their drink).  We had such a great time that the head chef came out to greet us."

What Else to Order:

Fried Chicken, Tri- Tip, and Ribs

Location:

4063 18th St

San Francisco, CA 94114

Neighborhood:

b/t Castro St & Hartford St 

Castro

The Castro Part 2: There's A Place For Everyone!

The Castro is busy all day long, but everything comes really alive at night time. The bars light up, the colorful characters come out, and everything just turns into one big party. While the Castro's nightlife does not exactly have too much to offer for women, it is a relatively safe neighborhood even after hours. There are still a lot of places where everyone, men and women alike, can feel at home and enjoy tasty dishes.

Today, we look at a couple of restaurants that offer just that.

Anchor Oyster Bar

What's Special About it:
You know what they say about oysters. They, uh, leave you feeling a little excited. So if you have "plans" for the night, a nice dinner at this place might be a good idea. They have a variety of seafood options from clam chowder, seafood salad, to seafood platters.

What Customers Say:
"7x7 list suggests the caesar salad with crab meat so I ordered that while I was there. Actually they give a significant amount of crab meat on the salad which makes the price not as bad. But also, they include croutons that's soaked in the salad dress which made it oh so totally delicious. Slightly crunchy, but tons of flavor."

What Else to Order:
Crab cakes, clam chowder

Location:
579 Castro St
San Francisco, CA 94114

Neighborhood:
579 Castro St
San Francisco, CA 94114

Starbelly

What's Special About it:
This place is a great option when you are looking for a date spot. This quasi-Italian restaurant is upscale enough to impress, and casual enough to relax. They also have a covered back patio which they sometimes rent out for events and private parties. They also have an off-menu burger that's worth trying.

What Customers Say: 

"My friend and I had a Mexican-style egg dish that was very good, it was almost like nachos with eggs, chorizo, sour cream and cheese. My other friend got chicken and waffles. I believe he said they were the best he'd ever had. Prices were pretty standard for brunch in SF."

What Else to Order:

Liver pate,  salted caramel pot de creme

Location:

3583 16th St
San Francisco, CA 94114

Neighborhood:

b/t Pond St & Market St 

Castro

The Castro Part 1: Colorful and Diverse

This week, we will explore the most colorful and diverse area in SF - The Castro!

The Castro is known for its lively gay scene, colorful characters, cute shops, and great restaurants. The neighborhood is home to several fine dining establishments, but the sandwich/burger shops are on top of list of users from sites like Yelp.

Here are a couple of spots known for serving memorable sandwiches and/or burgers:

Ike's Place

What's Special About it:
If you are looking for a place that embodies "the art of the sandwich," look no more. Ike's has creative sandwich selections/creations such as [Name of Girl I'm Dating] (Avocado, Halal Chicken, Honey Mustard, Pepper Jack) or the Vegan Brutus (Garlic and Herb Sauce, Marinated Artichoke Hearts, Vegan Cheese, Vegan Chicken).

What Customers Say:
"This place is amazing! I love myself a good sandwich and here at Ike's they make a damn good one. They have a huge menu, they probably make over 100 different variety of sandwiches and you can also customize them to your liking."

What Else to Order:
Knock yourself out! Wide variety here!

Location:
3489 16th St
San Francisco, CA 94114

Neighborhood:

b/t Dehon St & Sanchez St 

Castro

Kitchen Story

What's Special About it:
If you are craving for a burger for brunch (or any other time of the day), Kitchen Story is the place for you. Famous for great brunch offerings, this spot serves good BLT, Tilapia Burger, and Mascarpone Stuffed French Toast.

What Customers Say: 

"Kitchen story to me was quite a surprise... I went because of the rave about the millionaires bacon. There was quite a line but luckily because I only went with one friend of mine and we were fine with sitting at the bar, we were given a seat immediately. "

What Else to Order:

KS' own Omelet and The Omurice.

Location:

3499 16th St

San Francisco, CA 94114

Neighborhood:

b/t Dehon St & Sanchez St 

Castro

LARK: A New Opening in Castro

Lark

Lark is a new restaurant and wine bar from Dunya's Coskun Abik and Sertac Yildizhan. The space went through a significant remodel and now has brick walls, concrete floors, and a copper-topped bar.

What's Special About it:
The food has a strong Mediterranean influence (lots of eggplant, lamb and feta). Dishes include hummus with warm lamb chunks and feta calamari to mains like the Lark burger (featuring ground lamb, burrata and oregano). Check out the"Boards and Bites" section of the menu (has charcuterie, cheeses and burrata crostini - perfect for wine).

What Customers Say:
"Food: amazing and rich, me and my wife had the Rib eye steak and kopolo chicken. So yummy! My wife was not sure which plate to eat from, her plate or mine."

What Else to Order:
Butternut squash stuffed gnocchi.

Location:

4068 18th St
San Francisco, CA 94114

Neighborhood:
b/t Hartford St & Castro St 
Castro

The Food of Bernal Heights: Part 4

A Dangerous Place
Bernal Heights had a reputation as a dangerous place in the 1980's. This was a place where crackheads frequent and car radios are stolen. The area was cleaned up in the early 90's after Good Life Grocery and restaurants like the Liberty Cafe moved in.

Today, there are several spots that serve great food and provide a chill/cozy ambiance. A patio-lover's paradise. Gone are the dangers of the past.

Bernal Star

What's Special About it:
You will love how they have a secret little alley way to the side of the restaurant that leads you to the back. An outdoor patio seating is available for those who want a little sunshine on a nice day! The beignets are a must try!

What Customers Say:
"I've been eating at this spot for years as far back as when it used to be liberty cafe. It's always been the best! The food is awesome with tons to choose from, the space is adorable and quaint. Watching movies outside at night when it's nice is awesome."

What Else to Order:
Chicken Enchilada, Eggs Benedict

Location:
410 Cortland Ave
San Francisco, CA 94110

Neighborhood:

b/t Wool St & Bennington St 

Bernal Heights

Progressive Grounds

• What's Special About it: 
• You will surely love the sunny, multilevel patios (which smells like jasmine in the summer - how nice is that?) They have toys and games for entertainment, as well as a fireplace that provides comfort when the fog rolls in. You will like the sandwiches, hot dishes, coffee drinks, smoothies and ice cream here.
• 
  
• What Customers Say:
• "This place was meant for studying!  Whole strips of outlets on the walls, my dream come true.  No more staking out tables and slowly migrating your way closer to an outlet (ahem, Panera).  The front room is bustling with energy and noise, so if you're there to chat I'd suggest sitting there. "
• 
  
• What Else to Order:
• Wide variety of breakfast bagels and sandwiches, from hummus wraps to avocado and cream cheese pumpernickel bagels.
• 
  
• Location:
• 400 Cortland Ave
• San Francisco, CA 94110
• 
  
• Neighborhood:
• b/t Bennington St & Wool St 
• Bernal Heights

The Food of Bernal Heights: Part 3

What's In The Name: Bernal Heights

Bernal Heights was originally part of the Rancho de las Salinas y Potrero Nuevo. It was named after Jose Cornelio de Bernal, to whom the land was granted in 1839 by the Mexican government. The rancho was subdivided into small lots in the 1860s, and was populated primarily by Irish immigrants who farmed the land and ran dairy ranches.

And while we are on the topic of immigrants and foreigners, Here's a couple of restaurants that serve international dishes to locals and tourists alike.

Little Nepal

What's Special About it:
It may say "Nepal," but the menu actually gets inspiration from Indian and Chinese cultures, too. They have curries, stir fries, and tandoor platters. They are known for subtle spicing and intricate flavors. Bestsellers include the Himalayan Momo (steamed pork dumplings) and the Mixed Tandoori Plate.

What Customers Say:
"One of my favorite spots! There's never a wait and it is super cozy inside.  Super friendly service... A real neighborhood gem!"

What Else to Order:
Little Nepal Special Chhoila , Kukhura Ra Palak

Location:
925 Cortland Ave
San Francisco, CA 94110

Neighborhood:
b/t Gates St & Folsom St
Bernal Heights

Zante's Indian Cuisine and Pizza

What's Special About it:
This restaurant serves a variety of vegetarian, meat/seafood indian dishes. They are known for pizza made of naan bread crust and using spicy spinach sauce. This comes as a surprise to some customers, but they end up getting endeared. Check out toppings like tandoori chicken and cauliflower.

What Customers Say:
"Interesting being in a pizza restaurant that uses Indian toppings.  People seemed to enjoy the food, and there was a constant progression of people picking up pizzas to go."

What Else to Order:
Paneer Indian pizza

Location:
3489 Mission St
San Francisco, CA 94110

Neighborhood:
b/t Cortland Ave & Kingston St
Bernal Heights

The Food of Bernal Heights: Part 2

Bernal Heights: A Survivor!

Bernal Heights survived the 1906 earthquake and fire because of the hill's bedrock foundation. Several small cottages on Shotwell Street were originally built as dwellings for people who had lost their homes in the disaster but still had jobs. Thus, more people moved to Bernal Heights following the earthquake.

Today, Bernal Heights is also home to a few good restaurants that provide comfort and satisfaction to diners. Here are some of the popular places in the area:

The Blue Plate

What's Special About it:
This quirky and relaxed resto caters to a hipster crowd that prefers to dine on comfort food with a twist. They serve dishes that include adventurous combinations of fresh and seasonal ingredients, such as macaroni and drunken spanish goat cheese.

What Customers Say:
"Literally the most delicious food my tongue has ever tasted. Got the mac & cheese which was baked with cheddar and goat cheese for an appetizer and the salmon for the main dish. I was blown away of how well they were cooked."

What Else to Order:
Fried chicken served with macaroni salad and a buttermilk jalapeno dipping sauce.

Location:
3218 Mission St
San Francisco, CA 94110

Neighborhood:
b/t Valencia St & Fair Ave
Bernal Heights, Mission

Emmy's Spaghetti Shack

What's Special About it:
The owners decided to open this hangout spot because of the lack of SF places that served food after 10pm. The ambiance is moody and eclectic. The inexpensive menu features big servings of Spaghetti and Meatballs as well as other comfort food like Roast Chicken and Seafood Linguine.

What Customers Say:
"Came here with a couple of friends. Boy or boy, huge and i mean HUGE meatballs here!! The portion was more than I had expected. If you are hungry and in need of an orgasmic meal come here!"

What Else to Order:
Zoodles Rasta Pasta

Location:
3230 Mission St
San Francisco, CA 94110

Neighborhood:

b/t Valencia St & 29th St 

Bernal Heights, Mission

The Food of Bernal Heights: Part 1

Getting to know BERNAL HEIGHTS

This week is all about Bernal Heights! Located in the southern edge of the Mission Valley, Bernal Heights is a "quaint urban village that seems forgotten by time." It does, however, have it's share of trendy boutiques and innovative restaurants.

The neighborhood is "a bastion of artists and progressives" and is popular with the lesbian community. It is also a good place for young families to look for a first home.

Today, let's check out a couple of places to get really affordable produce/food items. Great for people looking to prepare homemade dishes.

Alemany Farmers Market

What's Special About it:
This is a historic farmers market that has bee in operation since 1947. Here you will find find inexpensive produce like bok choy and plantains (much cheaper than Embarcadero products). Check out the dried fruit stand at the end on the exit side. They have dried pears, dried peaches, dried apples, prunes, etc.

What Customers Say:
"I absolutely LOVE this farmers market! Today I convinced myself I needed more groceries just so I can have an excuse to come here haha. The produce is pretty cheap and everything is so fresh"

Location:
100 Alemany Blvd
San Francisco, CA 94110


Good Life Grocery

What's Special About it:
This small neighborhood grocery embraces living green and living it up. Perfect for the environmentally conscious shopper, you will surely find recycled paper products and shade-grown coffee beans. But it's not a purely vegetarian place, as you can find a nice butcher counter. You will also like the cheese, produce and wine sections.

What Customers Say:
"Love my local grocery store! Great selection of fresh produce. Not everything is organic, but there's a good amount to choose from. Great beer and wine selections. Friendly and helpful staff."

Location:

448 Cortland Ave
San Francisco, CA 94110

Neighborhood:
b/t Wool St & Andover St 
Bernal Heights

April 13, 2015 New Standouts In Turkish, Vegan & Mexican Food

Here are 3 new standouts in the resto industry! You will surely love these Turkish, Vegan and Mexican restos!

KITCHEN ISTANBUL 
Inner Richmond

Opened last December 2014, Kitchen Istanbul is the new go-to Turkish spot ideal for dine in or take out meals. Owner and executive chef Emrah Kilicoglu creates superb moussaka rich with spiced lamb, eggplant and bechamel sauce (with a vegetarian version. You should also try the muhammara and the zucchini fritters.



NOURISH CAFE 
Inner Richmond

This resto opened end of February 2015. They have healthy meals that are actually flavorful, they can easily pass off as unhealthy! Nourish serves 100% plant-based, organic, naturally sweetened, non-GMO dishes, baked goods and juices. Try the massive salads like the Nourish Bowl, or one of their sandwiches. Smoothies like Baker Beach Banana Chocolate and  toasts topped with adzuki bean miso, radishes and flax oil, are other must-try items.

EL PIPILA at THE HALL
SoMa

This place is owned by Guadalupe Guerrero, a working mother and excellent cook. Her
cooking is homey and authentic inspired by recipes from Acámboro, Mexico. The smoky pozole verde is sheer comfort of green tomatillos, hominy, shredded chicken and bits of bacon.  Most items on the menu are under $10.

Food for Thought April 10, 2015

POWER LUNCHES PART 4

A food list is never complete without including popular gems from SOMA. If you happen to be in the area during lunchtime, here are some places that you need to visit!

The Grove Yerba Buena

What's Special About it:
For lunch, don't miss the Grove Cubano. Yummy! Service is excellent, and you may find the decor a little eclectic (but nice!)

What Customers Say:
"The atmosphere was very nice and the people were great. The seating was cozy and welcoming. Highly recommended for breakfast / brunch."

What Else to Order:
Chicken Pot Pie, Lavender Lemonade

Location:
690 Mission St
San Francisco, CA 94105

Neighborhood:
b/t Annie St & 3rd St in Financial District, SoMa


Freshroll Vietnamese Rolls & Bowls

What's Special About it:
As the name implies, you should try out the freshrolls from this Vietnamese restaurant. A perfect place for diners who want to have healthy options for lunch.

What Customers Say:
"We both ordered the pho with steak. Service is incredibly fast as we got our food less than 5 minutes of placing our order. "

What Else to Order:
The Sandwich (Banh Mi, $6.95), The Bowl (think rice or vermicelli bowls with choice of noodles or white/brown rice, $7.95) and pho ($8.95)

Location:
157 4th St
San Francisco, CA 94103

Neighborhood:
b/t Minna St & Howard St in Financial District, SoMa



Split Bread

What's Special About it:
If you are looking for sandwiches, this is one of the best places to get it in SOMA. Try out the famed Spit Roasted Pork Belly 'Cuban' and be prepared to call it a day.

What Customers Say:
“A new favorite lunch spot, brought to us by the fine folks from Mixt Greens.”

What Else to Order:
Rotisserie porchetta Sandwich ($10) cracklings, balsamic onion marmalade, arugula on a toasted ciabatta roll.

Location:
145 4th St
San Francisco, CA 94103

Neighborhood:

145 4th St

San Francisco, CA 94103

April 10 - Your Daily Drink on Tequila

Tequila is distilled from blue Weber agave. The spirit can only be made in a specific region: the Mexican state of Jalisco and some surrounding areas. The area’s volcanic soil is perfect for growing agave. The forbidding plant, which has sharp thorns and long, thick leaves, takes between eight and 12 years to reach maturity before it can be harvested.

Did you know?

• Tequila is NOT made from cactus.
• Traditionally, tequila was not taken with salt and lime. During the Spanish Influenza, doctors prescribed tequila as a medicine, to be taken with salt and lemon. But culturally, tequila is to be sipped and savored, not shot with a chaser.
• There has never been, nor will there ever be, a worm in your tequila bottle. It’s not allowed by Mexican law. Worms (or actually larvae) are only found in (bad) mezcal, and were put there as part of a marketing stunt in the 1940s. (Eeew!)
• There is a train you can take through Jalisco called the “Tequila Express” where you can taste tequila while riding past fields of blue agave, culminating in a distillery tour. (Hmmm interesting!)
• Just because tequila has to be made in Mexico, doesn’t it mean it has to be owned by Mexicans. Some very well known Americans have their own tequila brands, including Justin Timberlake, George Clooney, Xzibit, Sammy Hagar, and John Paul DeJoria.

Here are the top tequila list in the United States:

• Don Julio
• Patron
• 1800 Tequila
• Cabo Wabo
• Harradura
• Corralejo
• Milagro
• Tres Generationes
• Cazadores
• El Jimador
• Hornitos
• Ocho
• El Tesoro Tequila
• Tres Agaves
• Avion
• Corzo
• Arette
• Clase Azul
• Casa Noble

Famous Tequila Bars in SF:

1. Mosto (Mission)
2. Tommy's Restaurant (Outer Richmond)
3. Tres Tequila Lounge & Mexican Kitchen (SoMa)
4. Tacolicious (Mission)
5. Tropisueño (SoMa)
6. Colibri Mexican Bistro (Union Square)
7. Velvet Cantina (Mission)
8. Azucar Lounge (SoMa)
9. La Urbana (Cole Valley)
10. Padrecito (Cole Valley)

April 10 - Your Daily Drink on Whiskey

Hey everyone! Let's talk about Whiskey!

Whiskey is one of the world's top favorite liquor. Whiskey isn’t the easiest drink to embrace. Its alcohol level is much higher than beer or wine, and some of the names, like those of Gaelic-rooted Scotch whiskies, can be difficult to pronounce. Whiskeys, though, are rich and diverse in flavors—more than any other distilled spirit. At their extreme, the really smoky, peat-infused Scotch whiskies can be downright challenging.

Did you know?

• Because many people loves whiskey in the United States, it is one of the first few items being taxed in the country.
• What's the difference between bourbon and whiskey? Bourbon needs to be produced only in America and made from 51 percent corn, whisky does not. Bourbon also needs to be stored in new, charred oak barrels whereas whiskey barrels do need to be oak but not new or charred. Lastly, to be called bourbon, the liquid needs to be distilled to no more than 160 proof and entered into the barrel at 125.

Know how! Like a pro!

• Just like drinking wine, smell the whiskey before drinking it and let the aroma set in. Taste and smell are related, and you will be preparing your taste buds and your mouth for the drink when you smell it.
• Sip the whiskey, DO NOT GULP! Take small sips and let the flavor swirl around your mouth before you swallow.
• Savor the whiskey. This drink has a high alcohol content, take it slow. Drink it while relaxing, and give yourself time between each sip to reflect on it.

There are approximately 500 brands of whiskeys in the world. Scottish, Irish, American, Japanese, the list is extensive. Let me give you a list of the most popular ones in no particular order:

Bourbon Whiskey

• Elijah Craig 21-Year-Old Single Barrel
• Jefferson's Presidential Select 21 Year Old
• Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit
• Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve 20-Year-Old
• Four Roses Small Batch
• Old Forester 2014 Birthday Bourbon
• Woodford Reserve Seasoned Oak Finish
• Basil Hayden's
• Black Maple Hill 16-Year-Old Small Batch
• Angel's Envy

Scotch Whiskey

• Bell’s
• Label 5
• William Lawson’s
• Dewars
• The Famous Grouse
• William Grant’s
• J & B Rare
• Chivas Regal
• Ballantine’s
• Johnnie Walker

Malt Whiskey

• Balvenie
• Glenfiddich
• Highland Park
• Laphroaig
• Old Pulteney Malta
• The isle of Jura Malta Superstition
• The Macallan

Top Whiskey Bars in SF

• Whiskey Thieves
• Nihon Whisky Lounge
• Beretta
• The Alembic
• Rickhouse
• 15 Romolo
• Rye
• Bloodhound
• Broken Record

Food for Thought April 9, 2015

POWER LUNCHES PART 3

Looking for lunch places in the Union Square area? I got a couple of recommendations that are worlds apart in terms of pricing (but delicious in their own special ways!)

Super Duper Burgers

What's Special About it:
Burgers. Order the Super Burger/Veggie Burger and you will surely have a hearty meal that will last you the rest of the day!

What Customers Say:
"This place was great. Not expensive and pretty mellow for a weekend lunch in the big city." 

What Else to Order:
Garlic Fries, Homemade Pickles

Location:
721 Market St
San Francisco, CA 94103

Neighborhood:
b/t Ofarrell St & Kearny St in Financial District, SoMa, Union Square

MKT Restaurant and Bar

What's Special About it:
This restaurant is located at the Four Seasons Hotel. A bit on the pricey side, obviously, but it's the perfect place for a working lunch. You should definitely try the Open Face Ahi Tuna Sandwich.

What Customers Say:
"Another great dinner at MKT, best restaurant in the area.  Also highly recommend the Sunday Brunch."

What Else to Order:
Tomato Soup, Roasted Halibut, Chicken

Location:

Four Seasons Hotel

757 Market St

San Francisco, CA 94103

Neighborhood:

Financial District, SoMa, Union Square

Food for Thought April 8, 2015

POWER LUNCHES, PART 2!

This time, let's explore nice restaurants in Russian Hill/Nob Hill that serve yummy lunches! Get ready to be wowed!

Blue Barn Gourmet

What's Special About it:
The Chinese Chicken Salad is a must try for lunch! Blue Barn is your neighborhood gourmet/artisan/sustainable/local sourcing salad, sandwich, + soup shop.

What Customers Say:
"My coworkers + I order lunch from Blue Barn so often, we might as well all have its phone number saved into our contacts. Not a week goes by where the name doesn't come up as a first suggestion, + we immediately salivate while putting in an order for pick up."

What Else to Order:

Location:
2237 Polk St
San Francisco, CA 94109

Neighborhood:
b/t Green St & Vallejo St in Russian Hill


Swan Oyster Depot

What's Special About it:
They say that the freshest seafoods in SF live in Swan Oyster Depot! Try out their Swan Special for lunch. Be prepared for the surprise that it brings!

What Customers Say:
"San Francisco has it's own brand of sights and smells that are vastly different than anywhere else. Conquering the hill on Polk from the Trolley, already fully aware of where we were going, I smelt it. That briny, sweet and savory. That smell that makes standing in an hour long line all totally worth it."

What Else to Order:
Clam Chowder Bowl, Dozen Oysters, Crab Back

Location:
1517 Polk St
San Francisco, CA 94109

Neighborhood:
b/t California St & Sacramento St in Nob Hill

Food for Thought April 7, 2015

POWER LUNCHES, PART 1

This week is all about power lunches. Our days could get incredibly busy sometimes that we forget to take a lunch break. Perhaps it's because of the poor food options that we have at the pantry. Worry no more! Here's a list of great lunches right at the San Francisco's Financial District area!

Ramen Underground:

What's Special About it:
For lunch, you should order the Tonkotsu Ramen, boiled egg and green onion. Be prepared though - there usually is a line during lunch time, so better go a little early.

What Customers Say:
"A hearty portion of soup and noodles with just the right amount of spice.  I got the spicy miso with green onion and the chicken dumpling.  Let me say, the noodles were very fresh and cooked just right, al dente.  I highly recommend the dumplings as they were not very fatty or filled with dark meat (looked like white meat).  Solid, solid ramen.  Well done."

What Else to Order:
Braised pork belly

Location:
356 Kearny St
San Francisco, CA 94108

Neighborhood:
b/t Bush St & Pine St in Chinatown, Financial District


Baladie Gourmet Cafe

What's Special About it:
For lunch, get the Lentil Soup and Gyro. This Mediterranean place promises great gyros and fries as well as other dishes. The price is very reasonable and they stay open a little later than most Financial District establishments.

What Customers Say:
"We were hungry & this place hit the spot! Delicious chicken breast shawarma & delicious Greek salad!! Yum! Tasty & good service too!!"

What Else to Order:
mediterranean mixed salad and dip platter with dolmas

Location:
337 Kearny St
San Francisco, CA 94108

Neighborhood:

b/t Bush St & Pine St in Chinatown, Financial District

Boxed Foods Company


What's Special About it: 

You will never want to skip lunch with their selection of sandwiches, salads, Panini, chips, drinks, and sides. Friendly staff and surprisingly short lines at lunch time.

What Customers Say: 

“The chicken trust-me is always a pleasant surprise -- and the honey-lime can't be beat.”

What Else to Order:

Boxed chicken salad
Location:

245 Kearny St

San Francisco, CA 94108

Neighborhood:

b/t Hardie Pl & Sutter St in Financial District, Union Square