Art and Entertain me

Wines from Portugal Offer Unique Taste, High Quality, Attractive Price

2026-10-12T16:12:37.438-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Emma Krasov

Prova Portugal, a global tasting event series, put together by ViniPortugal, a.k.a. Wines of Portugal, finally made its way to San Francisco, California—where wine culture is inherently strong, and where serious wine experts can be found not only among the grape growers, producers, traders, and wine educators, but in the general public as well.

At a recent tasting seminar and pairing workshop led by US Wines of Portugal Ambassador Eugenio Jardim, the masterclass attendees learned about the “World of Difference,” presented by the rich diversity of vibrant indigenous grapes with distinctive regional qualities, centuries-old winemaking traditions, unique tasting characteristics, and enjoyable affordability that make Portuguese wines stand out on the international market, and grow in popularity.

Should you ever wonder where exactly the wine country in Portugal is, the answer is simple—in Portugal! The entire small-ish European country on the Iberian Peninsula is an ensemble of wine-growing regions, from the forested mountainous Vinho Verde and the rugged Douro River Valley in the northwestern part of the country to the largest wine region of Alentejo and the coastal strip of Algarve in southern Portugal.

From bright, acidic, low-alcohol whites, rosés, and sparkling wines to full-bodied, fruit-forward, and tannic reds--all made with indigenous grapes, found nowhere else—Portugal has something for everyone!

During the seminar, conducted at Press Club San Francisco—a premier wine bar, lounge, and event space—the lecturer brought to the listeners’ attention a few remarkable historical facts:

The Douro Valley was the first demarcated and regulated wine region in the world; viticulture in Portugal dates back to the Bronze Age; wine is produced in all regions of the country, and 250 grape varieties, not related to Middle Eastern or Caucasus Mountains origins, are native to Portugal.

The featured wines, introduced in the masterclass that preceded a walkaround tasting, included Contacto Alvarinho 2025 Symington Family Estates, Vinho Verde; Rubrica Arinto 2024 Luis Duarte Vinhos, IGP Alentejo; Douro Collective Meruge 2022 Lavradores de Feitoria, DOC Douro; Altitude by Duorum 2024 J. Porgugal Ramos Family Estates, DOC Douro; Casa Ferreirinha Quinta da Leda 2022 Sogrape Vinhos, DOC Douro; Quinta do Crasto Touriga Nacional 2021 Quinta do Crasto, DOC Douro; Herdade de São Miguel Pé de Mãe 2024 Casa Relvas, IGP Alentejo, and Mouchão 2018 Mouchão, DOC Alentejo.

Find out more about the Wines of Portugal and Provo Portugal at https://www.winesofportugal.com/en/, https://provaportugal.com/.

Press Club is located at 20 Yerba Buena Lane, San Francisco, California. More information at https://www.pressclubsf.com/.

Yerba Buena Center for the Arts San Francisco Presents GaHee Park: Behind the Curtain

2026-08-10T18:13:16.875-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

Just open, the new art show at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (YBCA) in San Francisco’s Yerba Buena Gardens city park is as curious as it is unexpected. Focused on an individual female subject as opposed to politicized groups, classes, and communities, usually depicted by the majority of exhibitions presented at the given venue, GaHee Park: Behind the Curtain explores the themes of solitude, sadness, contemplation, the ambiguity of nature, and hints at depression and mortality.

Korean-born Canada-based artist, GaHee Park, whose medium- and large-scale unframed oils on canvases fit in just one gallery, follows a surrealist tradition of a lonely character in a dreamlike world, populated by familiar objects in fantastical circumstances; stillness of time, buoyancy of space, and alienation from reality in the most vivid form.

Her main character is a symbolic smooth-haired brunette with painterly pretty face, long fingers, black manicure on her pointed nails, and black-lined beautiful eyes pensively looking at the viewer or at the surrounding objects and creatures. Of the latter, some visibly participate in pictured scenes, like sad domestic cats, menacing crawling ants, and other insects and snails; others appear in various degrees of deterioration, like wilted flowers, dismembered ducks, or decaying fish. Favored objects seem to be martini glasses and olives, blankets and household items on par with landscape backdrops that include clouds, mountain ranges, and bodies of water.

Park’s technical skill is undeniably high, rendering the subtlest color variations and the smoothest surfaces of her oils that resemble pastels due to their color palette and brushstroke perfection.

Curated by Dorothy Dávila, Behind the Curtain is the first US museum show for the artist, and spans the last five years of her practice.

In addition to the exhibition, Park and her husband, filmmaker Michael Vass, have curated a film series, Through an Open Window that takes place each Saturday at 2 pm from August 15 to October 31 and will feature filmmakers like Joan Jonas, Maya Deren, Tsai Ming-Liang, and Alfred Hitchcock, among others. A $15 ticket includes the film, a themed snack, and gallery entrance.

More information at https://ybca.org/.

Treasures of the Pharaohs at the de Young Museum in San Francisco

2026-08-05T18:37:23.902-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

Pablo Picasso once said that all art is contemporary, because true art survives its own historical period, continues to be relevant, and thus becomes contemporary for the new generations of humankind.

I couldn’t help but think about it at the opening of the international touring exhibition Treasures of the Pharaohs, organized by the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, and now on view at the de Young museum inside our gorgeous Golden Gate Park.

Among the 130 exquisite artifacts delivered from the Egyptian Museum in Cairo and the Luxor Museum on the East Bank of the Nile River, I especially admired those that through the millennia managed to convey human emotions, like expressive family groups of lime stone, granite, and clay, and—appreciation for beauty, like wearable jewelry pieces of extreme mastery, made of fragile materials—gold, lapis lazuli, cornelian, and turquoise.

Indeed, this very distinct art from a long-gone civilization continues to impress, excite, and fascinate contemporary viewers with the same powerful message of cultural expression as it had, perhaps, in time of its creation. Shown for the first time in the USA, the exhibition focuses mostly on art objects from the epoch of Amenhotep III (ca. 1390– 1352 BC) and the “Golden City,” rediscovered very recently, in 2021.

“For over three thousand years, the pharaohs of ancient Egypt sat at the center of a highly sophisticated society in which kingship, religion, and visual culture were inseparable,” said Thomas P. Campbell, Director and CEO of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco. “Uniting 130 remarkable works of art, ranging from monumental granite statues to delicately crafted gold jewelry, Treasures of the Pharaohs invites American audiences to explore the breadth of this civilization, from the apex of royal power to the objects of everyday life.”

Divided into six sections in the upper floor galleries of the de Young’s spacious building, the beautifully designed exhibition demonstrates various aspects of the ancient Egyptian royal power, considered god-like, and revered as such; the usual labor practices of everyday life, and reflects omnipresent worldview, deeply rooted in religious beliefs and perceptions of life after death.

“The Egyptian pharaohs were considered both deities and leaders. They ruled as kings, military leaders, and chief priests from about 3100 BC, when Egypt was unified, to 30 BC, when it was invaded by Rome,” said Renée Dreyfus, Distinguished Curator and George and Judy Marcus Curator in Charge of Ancient Art at the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco. “As the exhibition reveals, their rule depended not only on their position but also on their families, those who served them, traditional symbols of power, and the religious beliefs that shaped their world and afterlife.”

From meticulously painted clay tablets to amazingly molded gilded sarcophagi, Treasures of the Pharaohs unfolds into a fascinating story of the ancient world, so far removed from ours, and yet so close to our contemporary understanding of art appreciation.

Treasures of the Pharaohs will continue through January 31, 2027 at the de Young museum, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco, California. Find out more, and plan your visit at https://www.famsf.org/visit/de-young.

Elektra at SF Opera is Complex, Powerful, and Decidedly Modern

2026-06-21T23:55:52.859-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Press images by Cory Weaver

Richard Strauss’s opera Elektra with Hugo von Hofmannsthal’s libretto, is a one-act tour-de-force; part musical achievement of enormous complexity, part psychological drama, rooted in ancient mythology.

What compelled Hofmannsthal, a Symbolist poet from Austria, to write a play in 1903, based on the murderous plot from the 5th century BC Greece, we might never know for sure, but a good guess would be that the contemporaneous research into the mental state of criminal minds, aimed at achieving understanding, and ultimately, compassion from the general public toward the dregs of society, might’ve played a role.

It remains open for debate among historians who had put in writing the story of a king’s daughter’s revenge first—Euripides or Sophocles, since both playwrights created their tragedies between 420 and 410 BC. What remains undisputed about both plays, is the depicted in them chain of events, where king Agamemnon, a Trojan War hero, is murdered by his wife, Klytemnestra, and her lover, Aegisth, setting off a feeling of inconsolable grief and a burning desire for revenge in the title heroine. Her brother, Orest, comes from exile and from being presumed dead for the sole purpose of avenging his father alongside his sister, Elektra.

While the ancient authors made at least some attempt to show fairness by justifying Klytemnestra’s crime with Agamemnon’s killing of their daughter, Iphigenie, as sacrifice to the goddess Artemis in exchange for her divine benevolence toward his military goals (and heartlessly deceiving the poor victim by asking her to dress up for her wedding feast, when leading her to her death) von Hofmannsthal skipped any mention of Iphigenie altogether, presenting Elektra and Orest as righteous avengers who just settled scores with their mother, an adulteress and murderess.

Upon seeing the von Hofmannsthal’s play at the Kleines Theater in Berlin in 1905, Strauss, who was considered a leading composer of the Late Romanticism, found inspiration in the tragic crime story that promised a new venue for his daring harmonic, orchestral, and emotional expansion of traditional Romanticism’s boundaries.

His rich orchestration, an overwhelming number of utilized instruments, the mighty reverberation of enforced brass and percussion sections as well as expressive dissonance, and the use of leitmotifs tied to each character served the purpose of the storyline well. Opera Elektra, composed between 1906 and 1908, premiered in 1909, and became the first collaboration of the two modernists, who shared a philosophy of Gesamtkunstwerk (total work of art, combining poetry, music, psychology, and social commentary), and revered mythological subjects while pursuing a bold fresh approach to the opera of the new century.

Even though Strauss and von Hofmannsthal had very different personalities, and rarely spent time toghether besides work, they deeply respected each other's talent, and their partnership, which started with Elektra, extended to 1929 (the librettist’s death), producing five more operas.

At the San Francisco Opera, Elektra has a long and glorious stage history that started in 1938, and continued for ten more seasons, with greatly expanded number of instrumentalists, and enlarged orchestra pit space, dictated by the assertive score, and a host of international talent playing the lead and conducting the notoriously complicated opera, considered one of the most difficult and exhausting pieces in the operatic repertoire.

In the now playing at SF Opera Keith Warner’s production, the action starts not in the Sophocles’s ancient city of Mycenae, but in a museum building, where the myth of Elektra comes alive through ancient gold masks in display cases, and a thematic video, dedicated to the subject matter—a widely available feature of visitors’ experience in any contemporary museum.

A distraught young woman, who hides from the guards at the museum closing time, finds herself overwhelmed by the artifacts, and turns into the vengeful literary character, destined to relive the tragic circumstances of Electra’s ordeal. Elena Pankratova, the Russian soprano, who has performed this role dozens of times in Vienna, Amsterdam, Dresden, Lyon and Naples, makes her Company debut to great acclaim.

A strong stage presence, and a resonant, agile voice that projects naturally over a full orchestra is convincingly demonstrated by Elza van den Heever, the South African-born lyric-dramatic soprano in the role of Elektra’s family-oriented, violence-reluctant, yet compliant sister Chrysothemis.

Hofmannsthal’s conniving Klytemnestra—not a grieving Iphigenie’s mother, but a treacherous Agamemnon’s wife, and Aegisth’s illicit lover, is performed with great vocal and dramatic force by the German mezzo-soprano Michaela Schuster.

A world-famous bass-baritone Kyle Ketelsen, originally from Iowa, is highly temperamental and impressive in the role of Orest, and tenor William Burden, a Florida native, adds to the overwhelming tension of the show in the role of Aegisth.

Loved and appreciated by the San Francisco public, Eun Sun Kim masterfully conducts the always impeccable San Francisco Opera Orchestra, while Anja Kühnhold skillfully directs the international cast.

The production crew features the work of Boris Kudlička (set designer), Kaspar Glarner (costume designer), John Bishop (lighting designer) and Bartek Macias (projection designer). Chorus Director John Keene leads the San Francisco Opera Chorus.

The War Memorial Opera House is located at 301 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco. The remaining Elektra performances are June 23 at 7:30 p.m. and June 27 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the San Francisco Opera Box Office, by calling (415) 864-3330 and online at www.sfopera.com.

Summer Entertainment? We’ve Got You Covered!

2026-05-29T23:24:07.751-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

To make your summer gatherings more exciting, add something new to your usual food and wine spread!

Switching to chilled white wines as the weather is getting warmer is nothing new, but an intriguingly reimagined label from the oldest continuously operating family winery in America is sure to impress your guests with its fresh approach to California whites.

Friends praise you as a home-grown barista? Get the new versatile syrups form Napa Valley to make your cocktail experiments unforgettable and add bright fruity undertones to salads, sauces, and desserts.

And then there’re summer truffles (in more than one sense!) coming from their mother ship—the city of Alba in Piemonte, Italy. Get ready to be amazed!

Cresta Blanca wines from Wente Family Vineyards

First, a delicious bit of history: Cresta Blanca wine from California won the Grand Prize at the 1889 Paris Exposition, a world’s fair of enormous historical significance. Second, a historical legacy of the brand: Wente Family Vineyards of Livermore, founded in 1883, and now owned and managed by the fourth and fifth generations of the family, purchased Cresta Blanca winery property in 1981. Third, the reincarnation of the brand: Wente revitalized the land and reintroduced the estate's wines in the new Cresta Blanca Collection. All wines are made with grapes, harvested from the original site.

“This collection of wines is about honoring the people and moments that shaped California wine history,” said Aly Wente, Chief Revenue Officer at Wente Family Vineyards. “As a fifth-generation family-owned winery, we are uniquely positioned to preserve and reintroduce Cresta Blanca’s iconic legacy, serving as storytellers who bring its most defining moments to life for today’s wine drinker in a way that feels both respectful of the past and relevant to the present. White wines are having such a moment right now—it felt appropriate to revive a brand that made its name here in the Livermore Valley and abroad on its white wine bona fides!”

The new reimagined portfolio includes 2024 Chardonnay, 2025 Sauvignon Blanc, and Blanc de Blancs Sparkling Wine, all highly suitable for food pairings, and attractively priced.

2024 Cresta Blanca Chardonnay carries purely Californian aromas of Honeycrisp apples and white nectarines. It has a slightly oaky, well-balanced palate, with vanilla and nutmeg notes, and clean refreshingly acidic finish.

2025 Cresta Blanca Sauvignon Blanc is the closest descendant of the historic 1889 Paris-Grand-Prize-winning sauterne, made of sauvignon blanc grapes. It’s rich with citrusy, brightly acidic notes of grapefruit, lemon, and key lime, with a slight sweetness and tartness on the palate, reminiscent of Meyer lemon and candid fruit, and an uplifting finish.

Cresta Blanca Blanc de Blanc Sparkling Wine produced by méthode champenoise is a dry and crisp bubbly with fresh citrusy and fruity aromas, white floral notes, and toasty brioche and apple pie flavors. Fine, persistent bubbles and clean minerality make it perfect as a palate-cleanser, aperitif, or dessert wine.

The elegant and expressive blue-on-white label on Cresta Blanca wines features a figure of a "Wine Goddess," inspired by an image on a historic redwood barrel created for the winery to commemorate its 1889 victory in Paris.

To learn more, visit https://wentevineyards.com/cresta-blanca/, https://wentevineyards.com/.

The Perfect Purée of Napa Valley

From The Perfect Purée of Napa Valley—a fruit-focused company, founded by Tracy Hayward at her parents' home back in 1988, and grown into a leading American producer of fruit purées and concentrates—comes a bunch of newly developed syrups with whimsical tastes and countless uses.

If you like to mix your own drinks for a cocktail hour with friends, and usually resort to a simple syrup to take the edge off a stiff mojito, old fashioned or whiskey sour, you’re in for an important discovery!

Fruit-forward, yet culinary-inspired new flavors—Blood Orange, Yuzu Juniper Thyme, and Plum Gochu will add fantastic nuances to your margaritas, gin martinis, and lemon drops. They are also great thirst-quenchers on hot summer days when mixed with sparkling water or poured over iced latte.

And since these premium syrups are designed for multi-functional use, you can experiment with them for making salad dressings, sauces, glazes, creams, foams, fillings, and flavored butters. Their true-to-fruit character, and consistently high quality the company is known for, shines in every preparation, and enhances every dish and drink.

In fact, Food and Beverage Innovation Awards (FABI) designated Plum Gochu Syrup as its 2026 FABI Favorite “for breaking new ground in taste and creativity.” It was identified by the National Restaurant Association as a game-changing product in the ever-evolving industry. This fusion of fresh plum juice and gochu—Korean pepper with gentle heat, smokiness, and umami—creates a savory blend of sweet-tart fruit and earthy complexity. The French-Korean bakery café chain Paris Baguette already features Plum Gochu in fresh mint lemonade as part of its Korean BBQ menu.

Chef Laura Lee of Chef L Custom Culinary Experiences—a personal chef service in Northern California—uses it in a duck dish, and says that, “The balance of sweet, tart and heat are perfect and stand up to other strong flavors, like duck meat.”

Blood Orange Syrup combines real blood orange juice and cane sugar. It bursts with bright citrus flavor that creates a natural balance between sweetness and acidity. Private Chef and Consultant Jacob Whitson of Whitson Hospitality in Nashville, Tennessee, uses it to create a citrus reduction for roasted seafood and a craft cocktails. “It delivers a vibrant, perfectly balanced flavor to elevate every creation,” he says.

Thanks to the syrups’ clean and concentrated taste, just a small amount of the liquid is enough to make a world of difference, so you can freely try and taste again and again, while creating your own culinary masterpieces.

“Syrups represent the next evolution for The Perfect Purée,” said Michele Lex, CEO of The Perfect Purée. “With the introduction of shelf-stable syrups we have a true fruit system for operators that provides a foundation of flavor and a world of possibility for creativity. And we’re only just beginning”.

The Perfect Purée’s signature staples include Strawberry, Red Raspberry and Tangerine, alongside specialty varieties like Lychee, Soursop, and Tamarind; frozen fruit purées and concentrates; Tastecraft Freeze-Dried Fruit, culinary-inspired craft fruit syrups, and Perfect Fruit Foams, a new product category. For more information, visit www.perfectpuree.com.

TartufLanghe: Truffles of all kinds

Do you like truffles? What kinds? Those rare seasonal mushrooms, black or white, that grow underground and can’t be detected by humans, only by pigs, dogs, and deer? Or you prefer chocolate truffles that represent the epitome of a chocolate evolution? Or both? No matter what’s your preference, you’re in luck, because a unique food company, based in Italy, covers all the basics, and produces all kinds of truffles!

Tartuflanghe (a combination of the word “truffle” and its region of origin, the Langhe) is a family-run artisanal company in Alba, Italy, specializing in fresh Piedmont truffles. It produces a number of truffle-based specialties, like truffle-infused oils, salts, pasta sauces, pesto, chutney, butter, honey, truffle powder, etc. etc. It started with a 1968 Michelin Guide restaurant “Da Beppe,” founded by Domenica Bertolusso and Beppe Montanaro, where truffles played the central role to the entire menu, and eventually became a focal product of the newly-established Tartuflanghe in 1980. In 10 years’ time, a star was born. The new pasta, Tartufissima containing 7% truffle, put the company on the international market and made it a world champion in everything truffle. The founders’ children, Paolo and Stefania Montanaro, who now run Tartuflanghe, dedicated their time and effort to creating new preservation techniques, and developing new products, so the ever-growing range of truffle delicacies now includes fantastical choices for all kinds of preparations and culinary surprises.

Some of the most exciting new products come from the Tartuflanghe innovative line of spreadable truffle creams, such as a signature Parmigiana Cream with Eggplant and Truffle (Crema di Parmigiana di Melanzane e Tartufo), a gourmet spread of eggplant, Parmigiana Reggiano PDO, buffalo mozzarella, and Italian summer truffle, just released this year, 2026; the award-winning Anchovy & Truffle Butter, White Truffle Egg Yolk, and Truffle Pesto spreads released a couple years ago, in 2024; and a bit earlier releases of Pepper, Tuna and Truffle (a savory blend of red peppers, yellowfin tuna, Taggiasca olives, and summer truffles) and Truffle Pizza of tomato, mozzarella and truffle—a savory, creamy spread that combines double-concentrated tomatoes, buffalo milk mozzarella, and summer truffles, specifically designed as a gourmet condiment to top pizzas, flatbreads, bruschetta, and sandwiches.

These spreads are also great with Tartuflanghe stellar potato chips—Patatine Tartufo (truffle chips) and Patatine Pesto (pesto chips) that tend to disappear from a picnic table in a matter of seconds!

But wait, there’s more! In addition to producing truffle specialties that became known and loved all over the world, in 2005 Tartuflanghe added a chocolate atelier, established for the production of TRIFULOT, non-mushroom sweet truffles made from chocolate and Piedmont IGP hazelnuts. So here goes! Now you can have your truffles and your chocolate truffles, too, from the same reputable and beloved company!

TRIFULOT by Tartuflanghe participated in the Italian/Mediterranean Craft Chocolatier Competition 2026, held in Florence, Italy, in February-March, and were awarded prestigious recognition, as follows: Gold Award Bacio di Dama Cookie Truffle + Special: Reinterpretation; Silver Award Pistachio Truffle; Silver Award Vermouth Truffle + Special: Alcohol; 2 Bronze Awards White Chocolate Truffle and Strawberry & Cream Truffle.

This competition features more than 20 categories and recognizes exceptional craftsmanship in fine chocolate. The process of judging is anonymous, and final decisions for Gold, Silver, and Bronze awards are made through private voting sessions conducted by the Grand Jury, following strict competition rules.

This year, the event brought together dozens of top tier chocolate makers and prominent chocolate companies from Italy and across the Mediterranean. The judging panel consisted of the International Institute of Chocolate & Cacao Tasting alumni, local experts, and members of the permanent international Grand Jury, and was evaluated by food journalists, sommeliers, and pastry chefs.

Categories included flavored chocolate bars, filled chocolates, enrobed fruits and nuts, chocolate spreads, and flavored bars. TRIFULOT by Tartuflanghe entered white chocolate-based pralines in the category “Nut-based pralines with white chocolate”, winning all the above mentioned awards.

Winners of the Italian/Mediterranean competition will advance to the World Final, scheduled for later this year.

“These awards represent an important recognition for Tartuflanghe and for the work we carry out every day. They celebrate our passion and our constant pursuit of quality, our commitment to excellence at every stage of production and ingredient selection, and our ability to innovate while reinterpreting tradition,” said Paolo Montanaro, Tartuflanghe Owner.

Find out more and place your orders at www.tartuflanghe.com .

Good Morning, Sunshine! New Products that Help You Wake Up with a Smile

2026-05-13T21:05:41.354-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

You don’t need much every morning to get up happy and ready to face the day—a refreshing night sleep, a good cup of coffee, a quick shower and makeup routine… but let’s be honest—the success is not consistent and easily achieved! Sleep disorders are real, coffee after a sleepless night makes you jittery, not energized, and sometimes a significant effort is needed to keep your face from looking tired even in the morning. Here’s a short list of newly introduced products that’ll keep you ready for any daily challenges.

iSense Pillow

You know the good sleep is essential to your wellbeing, but can you control waking up in the middle of the night, not being able to fall asleep, and tossing and turning until it’s too late to continue staying in bed? What you can control is your pillow! A maximally comfortable position of your head and neck is key to dozing off peacefully and without delay. Each of us needs a different pillow for that. Some sleep better on a flat, almost non-existent one, others like to be propped up like the medieval royals, so there’s no one size fits all, unless… you use the newly introduced FlexiCool Adjustable Pillow from iSense, a company founded in 2017, headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, and offering the world’s only dual-adjustable foam mattress with patented Comfort Control Technology and fully adjustable pillows that do not lose shape over time and allow users to add or remove fill to achieve their perfect firmness and loft.

Made of breathable materials to help regulate temperature throughout the night, iSense pillows are filled with removable cross-cut foam particles designed for be reduced or added for the pillow to easily adapt to your personal condition, and provide consistent alignment and pressure relief. This is especially beneficial for people who experience neck pain, shoulder tension, or inconsistent sleep positions.

“Your sleep system should support your life,” says Paul Longman, CEO and Founder of iSense. “Better sleep isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. When sleep improves, everything else follows.”

More information and iSense products at www.myisense.com. Also available in select retail locations nationwide.

ActivatedYou Morning Lyft

ActivatedYou, a company founded by actress Maggie Q and health expert Dr. Frank Lipman, produces various supplements of probiotics, prebiotics, and green superfoods designed to support digestive function, energy levels, and overall wellness, like Morning Complete, a daily drink, and Essential Skin Food collagen support—a plant-based blend of nutrients for firm skin and smooth complexion.

“Once upon a time, I too was struggling with my own health issues, which led me to do extensive research on the world of nutrition and navigating the challenges of balancing a healthy life,” states the company founder Maggie Q on the company website. “This inspired me to share my experience and create ActivatedYou, so that everyone can prioritize their health with nutrient-packed wellness solutions. Our unique formulas blend the latest in nutrition with age-old Eastern traditions and ingredients for unique, effective formulas designed to help revolutionize health and improve lives.”

A recently introduced ActivatedYou Morning Lyft might be exactly what you’re looking for every morning—a healthier, protein-rich alternative to your regular coffee. This mushroom-infused blend contains 100% Arabica coffee beans and six functional mushrooms—turkey tail, shiitake, lion’s mane, cordyceps, chaga, and reishi to help you maintain energy, immunity, focus, gut health. Dissolving a scoop of mixture in 8-10 oz of hot water creates a powerful drink to which you can add your milk or spices, blend it to desired texture, or froth it.

“Here at ActivatedYou, we delve deep into the latest nutrition research to make sure our key ingredients are backed by real science. This ensures that our ingredients support your health in a meaningful way,” says the company co-founder, Dr. Frank Lipman, Chief Science Officer, a gut-health expert, a pioneer of integrative medicine, and the best-selling author of five acclaimed books on health and wellness. More information at https://activatedyou.com/.

Olea Essence Skincare

Think you know your olive oil? Maybe you do, but olive oil powered skincare is about to surprise you by adding anti-aging, hydration, and skin restoration benefits to your beauty routine!

From Farm to Face from Olea Essence is a new comprehensive line of antioxidant natural skincare products designed to nourish, restore, and rejuvenate your skin.

The olives used in the production of cosmetic creams and serums are grown on Olea Essence Farms and developed in Olea Essence Labs in the Sea of Galilee region of Israel.

Regenerative farming methods, unfiltered extra virgin olive oil with other pure botanical ingredients, and ancient beauty traditions backed by modern skin science and advanced formulation techniques are at the base of this new skin product line, designed to deliver long-lasting results.

“Olea Essence was born from a belief that the most powerful skincare solutions come from nature—specifically from the olive tree, which has been revered for centuries for its healing and nourishing properties,” says Avner Talmon, founder of Olea Essence. “From regenerative olives grown on our Olea Essence Farms to the formulations developed and produced in our labs, every step is intentional. We combine this heritage with modern skin science to create products that don’t just sit on the skin, but truly work with it—helping restore balance, hydration, and a natural, healthy glow.”

Olea Essence Face Serum is a hydrating, anti-aging formula that combines concentrated unfiltered olive oil, rich in antioxidants, with other botanical oils, like argan, jojoba, evening primrose, and rosehip. By reducing dryness, it improves skin tone and elasticity, and restores youthful radiance. Apply a small amount of this nourishing serum to your face and neck before bed, and massage thoroughly for a wholesome effect in the morning.

Nourishing Night Cream with Silk is a rich overnight treatment that contains olive fruit extract, olive oil, avocado oil, beeswax, sweet almond oil, glycerin, grape seed oil, lanolin, cocoa seed butter, silk (yes, silk!) powder, and other ingredients that repair, hydrate, and protect against environmental stressors. Recommended to apply after facial cleanser and allow a few minutes for full absorption.

Eye Cream with Silk Protein is as luxurious as it sounds, based on pure olive and other plant oils, enriched with silk protein to reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. Gently massage on eyelids and under eyes.

All of the above, and numerous other Olea Essence products are formulated with the highest quality ingredients following ever-evolving skin science to address all kinds of skin concerns—from acne and dryness to rosacea and aging.

Unfiltered extra virgin olive oil, a natural source of antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids is rich in bioactive polyphenols, and has been the subject of modern dermatological research. Studies on its key compounds, oleocanthal and oleacein have demonstrated their ability to support skin regeneration and visibly reduce signs of aging.

Olea Essence products boost hydration and lock in moisture, support skin barrier repair and regeneration, help balance oil production, improve tone, texture, and elasticity of skin, and provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant protection.

For more information about Olea Essence products and availability go to www.oleaessence.com.

Wines from Israel for National Wine Day May 25

2026-05-13T00:18:24.129-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov. Press images (above)

Rare, small-production wines are of special interest to anyone engaged in viticulture, because it’s always exiting to learn about the unusual grape varieties grown in faraway lands. However, even the well-known kinds of fruit that prevail in the top wine-producing regions differ from the familiar when developed in another appellation. They carry on some special characteristics of the foreign soil, distinctive features of the climate, and are a product of locally developed techniques and methodologies. For wine experts as well as for regular consumers who appreciate a casual glass of wine on occasion, discovering these new wines can turn into a fascinating journey.

This month, make a goal of trying new, unknown wines in celebration of the National Wine Day on May 25! And since May is also a Jewish American Heritage Month, let’s take a closer look at the wines from Israel, rooted in biblical traditions and produced by highly-skilled contemporary winemakers, savvy in their trade.

“Wine is about connection—bringing people together around the table,” says Josh Greenstein, Executive Director of the Israeli Wine Producers Association (IWPA) that represents nearly 40 wineries across the country. “Israeli wines offer something truly special. These are wines with history, soul, and a modern vibrancy that resonates with today’s consumer. What makes Israeli wine so compelling is the balance—thousands of years of heritage paired with bold innovation.”

IWPA has a mission to “elevate global recognition of Israel as a premier, world-class wine-producing region by educating, promoting, and introducing its diverse, high-quality wines to U.S. consumers.”

So let’s taste the wines from various regions of Israel, suitable for celebrations, and easily paired with all kinds of food.

Rosie 2023, Wild Brut Dry Sparkling Rosé Wine from Psagot Winery, located in the high altitude terroir of Jerusalem Mountains is 85% pinot noir and 15% chardonnay. This premium sparkling wine underwent a second fermentation when bottled, following méthode champenoise (or rather méthode traditionnelle) for its fine, lively bubbles. With crisp, refreshing palate and bright flavors of citrus and red berries, it pairs well with diverse cuisine, like salads, seafood, grilled vegetables, fried chicken, and soft cheeses, especially brie and goat cheese.

Shiloh Privilage Winemaker’s Blend Blanc 2025 from Judean Hills is produced by Shiloh Winery from 39% chardonnay, 26% French Colombard, 15% chenin blanc, 14% viognier, and 6% riesling. Coming from the ancient vineyard region, it’s a new, first-ever white blend of five grape varieties. Golden color, floral aromas, flavors of tropical fruit, and smooth, silky texture with a long, refined finish, are best expressed when served chilled. Pairs with lighter fare, like Mediterranean cuisine.

Lahat Lavan 2023 from Lahat Winery in Galilee, is a special blend of 70% roussanne, 25% viognier, and 5% marsanne by winemaker Itay Lahat. It’s lemony and creamy, with firm, tangy acidity. Hand-harvested and barrel-aged, this wine is structured, aromatic, and elegant. It’s designed for many kinds of culinary pairings, from shellfish to roasted meats, vegetables and cheeses.

Barkan Vineyards The Golden Edition Chardonnay 2024 from Judean Foothills is a special edition label from Barkan Winery, the largest winery in Israel, founded in 1990 and located in Hulda. The fruit for this wine is grown in the Bekoa vineyard, and aged for six months in oak barrels. This strong, balanced, fruit-forward dry chardonnay with citrusy finish is best suitable for pairing with fish, creamy pasta, and poultry.

Psagot Sinai White Dry Wine M Series 2024 is produced by the abovementioned Psagot Winery in the northern Jerusalem mountain range with a centuries-old tradition of winemaking. Its terroir is unique, and the grape composition of this wine is stellar: 70% gewurtztraminer, 10% sauvignon blanc, 10% viognier, and 10% chardonnay. Rose petals on the nose, melon and citrus on the palate, with soft notes of peach and tangerine, and a fresh, lightly acidic finish. A perfect accompaniment to fresh summertime fare. On the label there’s a replica of a coin, discovered during an archeological excavation of a cave that later became the winery’s barrel room. The coin is attributed to the time of “Great Revolt” of 66-73 CE, and carries a depiction of amphora—an ancient wine storage vessel. “It all began in a 2,500 year old cave, where a message from the past was revealed to us in the form of an ancient coin where history and legacy come together,” sates the winery website.

Carmel Signature Single Vineyards Carignan 2021 Taninim Creek Shomron from Carmel Winery represents the most prestigious wines from the Chief Winemaker Yiftach Perets. Single Vineyards carignan from the Taninim Creek is grown on clay soil among the old oak trees, and is fully ripened at the time of hand-harvesting, achieving the maximum concentration of flavor. Controlled fermentation in stainless steel is followed by aging in oak barrels for 16 months. Fruity and spicy aroma and black fruit notes on the palate make it a great match for smoked and roasted meats and aged cheeses.

Carmel Private Collection Shiraz 2021, produced by the same winery, belongs to its award-winning series that “fulfills the vision of the legendary founder of Carmel Winery in 1882. These aromatic full-flavored, and refreshing wines possess rich balanced complexity, pairing well with Mediterranean cuisine, and perfect for any shared moments of joy,” as the back label states on the bottle. This beautiful wine is aged in oak barrels for 8 months, has aromas of ripe raspberries and black plums, and is recommended to be served at 60 F temperature.

Shiloh Legend IRA 2021 from Judean Hills is a blend of 45% carignan, 34% grenache, 13% syrah, and 8% barbera. Shiloh Winery proprietor, Simon Chomer, and winemaker Amichai Lourie created an unfiltered, full-bodied, spicy, and mildly oaky red with flavors of black cherry and plum; refined, polished tannins, and complex, long finish. Rich and rewarding, it pairs well with grilled beef and lamb, earthy mushrooms, and eggplant dishes. Decanting for up to an hour is recommended before pouring.

To learn more about the wines of Israel, visit www.iwpa.com.  

San Francisco Ghosts with US Ghost Adventures, Booking Links Included

2026-04-16T17:23:00.000-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

Among the hundreds of cities and towns in America covered by the US Ghost Adventures’ fearless tour guides, you’ll be hard pressed to find another city as rich in ghostly history as our native San Francisco! There must be twice more haunted houses, mystery mansions, and otherworldly spirits roaming the streets at night here, in our famous Fog City, than anywhere else.

Just imagine, back in 1849, at the beginning of the California Gold Rush, the entire crews of seamen coming to San Francisco abandoned their ships and went panning for gold. Their vessels were rotting on the foreshore, gradually becoming a landfill for the future Marina district, later built up with posh multi-million-dollar mansions.

On other occasion, the 19^th century sailors, who were spending their time and money at the city’s watering holes in a company of women entertainers, completely lost their bearings only to wake up on a strange boat halfway to China. That wide-spread practice of kidnapping sailors in San Francisco was called, “getting shanghaied,” in other words, drugged, and delivered to some merchant ship captain troubled by labor shortages.

In its early days, the city had a coroner, paid for his gruesome work of collecting the bodies of deceased homeless on the streets and burying them. According to some historical documents, one entrepreneurial coroner buried and then “found” again the same bodies more than once to be paid by the city each time.

From the stories and anecdotes of gold seekers and gold diggers, sailors and prostitutes, business magnates and socialites, our free-spirited city quickly became a living legend. To learn but a small part of it, embark on a San Francisco Ghosts tour with a local guide—an energetic storyteller from the US Ghost Adventures.

The guide takes you on a walking tour of downtown area where you can see the most architecturally stunning historic buildings that survived the catastrophic 1906 earthquake and fire; hear enticing stories about ghosts, apparitions, and mysterious happenings, based on real-life thrills and tragedies, and even try to identified a ghostly presence yourself with a help of a special Electromagnetic Field Detector (EMF) that contains an advanced sensor designed to detect fluctuations in electromagnetic fields. Paranormal investigators believe that the otherworldly presence creates disturbances in these fields.

San Francisco Ghosts tours usually start at 8 pm, last one hour to 90 minutes, and cover about one mile upon the gorgeous Nob Hill, home to Grace Cathedral, historic mansions and world-renowned grand hotels.

Book a San Francisco Ghosts tour here: https://www.sfghosts.com/?ref=ngnin2mf.

To book other US Ghost Adventures tours in more than 260 cities and towns, go to: https://usghostadventures.com?ref=ngnin2m.

To explore the spooky ghostly gift shop and acquire your own EMF device, go to: https://store.usghostadventures.com/?ref=ngnin2mr.

San Francisco Chocolate Salon 20th Anniversary

2026-04-13T14:40:00.000-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

This spring, the annual chocolate festival, the San Francisco International Chocolate Salon, celebrated its 20^th anniversary with dozens of participating competing vendors, hundreds of visitors, plentiful chocolate tastings, cooking classes, panels, and chocolate cookbook authors’ talks.

This original and premier artisan chocolate show on the West Coast, presented by Taste TV, brings to the attention of producers, buyers, and the ticket holders from the general public the ever increasing richness and diversity of creative innovations in the realm of gourmet chocolate, enjoyed and appreciated by all.

It’s hard to imagine how much hard work and trial-and-error perseverance are invested in the resulting beautiful confections, oftentimes as whimsically designed and pleasing to the eye as they are delectable to the palate.

Far from being able to mention the multitude of products from every exquisite brand, presented at the 20^th anniversary Salon, this reporter would like to emphasize one of the artisans, whose mastery and dedication serves as a great example of a typical “chocolate guild” member.

Victoria Bracha, Business Accelerator and Chocolatier of VB Fine Chocolates produces melt-in-your-mouth boxed truffles of various taste profiles and suitable for various occasions, constantly expanding her repertoire with new creative findings. Bracha describes her career in chocolate making as follows, “With my experience as a fashion designer, having owned and operated a women’s apparel business with vertical integration of design, manufacture, wholesale, and retail for 15 years, I create my chocolate pieces like fashion collections. Each collection has a visual theme, a specific shape with a coherent flavor flow using Belgian white or dark chocolate. People often tell me that my chocolates are too pretty to eat. I want people to think that these chocolates are so pretty that they have to try some. We eat with our eyes before we even taste our food. During our overseas trips, my family and I dined in many Michelin-starred restaurants. I am often thrilled by how elegantly and colorfully the dishes are plated, and how unique and exquisite they taste. I am striving to create chocolates of that caliber. I find it challenging and joyful to keep creating new seasonal collections while maintaining a high standard. My mission is to bring sweetness and smiles to people’s lives!”

This year, VB Fine Chocolates presented its new creation, The Art of Tea Collection, which consists of tender and flavorful tea-infused truffles, Jasmine Tea & White Peach, Yuzu & Matcha Tea, Thai Tea, and Lavender & Earl Grey Tea.

Other remarkable examples of this brand’s achievements are VB Fine Chocolates Special Mix Collection (Dark Mocha & Espresso, Spiced Mango Ganache, Yuzu & Matcha Tea, and Salted Caramel with Italian Truffle Ganache), and wine pairing collections Dry Whites, Riesling and Sweeter Whites, and Reds Across the Board.

Creating themed chocolates for all occasions, and packing them in gorgeous little boxes with rainbow-colored ribbons, Bracha’s enterprise offers sweet treats for personal and business gifts, private and corporate events, all kinds of celebrations and happenings, where you can be sure you won’t go wrong with any of the choices.

To see the VB Fine Chocolates assortment and order your own boxed truffles, go to www.vbfinechocolates.com.

More information about San Francisco Chocolate Salon at www.SFChocolateSalon.com.

What Would You Like to Drink?

2026-04-11T18:06:00.000-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

This spring, a nice array of international wines takes over the U.S. picnic tables. Made of rare indigenous grapes, produced by multi-generational family wineries, and attractively priced, these wines are rooted in European traditions, refreshingly new to our palates, and oftentimes light on alcohol, which seems more and more popular with the American consumer.

From the Puglia region of southern Italy, some gorgeous bottles of Varvaglione white and rosé, produced by a historic family winery in operation since 1921, come as a nice surprise.

Organic 2024 Varvaglione 12 e mezzo Bianco Puglia Organic Wine, is a blend of sustainably grown malvasia bianca, chardonnay, and fiano grapes, native to Puglia. Aged in stainless steel, straw-colored, light and crisp, with aromas of mimosa and citrus fruit, Bianco Puglia has 12.5% ABV and is sure to add a festive mood to your seasonal fare. This bright white brings out the flavors of pasta, shellfish, white meat and cheese dishes, and can serve as a springtime centerpiece. Just look at its artful label, elegantly painted with clover and thistle flowers and shimmering pink butterflies!

A glass-capped 2024 Varvaglione Susumaniello Rosé is 100% susumaniello, a rare, Puglia exclusive, grape variety, mostly grown around the Brindisi and Salento areas. It used to be just a blending grape, but lately became popular for its unique character. With light peach color, strawberries and cherries on the nose, and a hint of spice on the palate, this 13% ABV rosé also has an artful label, smartly depicting some suitable food pairings, like mussels, shrimp, and octopus—among other fun images, like fig leaves and fruit, cacti in bloom, olive branches, beloved Italian crackers taralli, and even a farmer’s cart that would deliver all the seasonal treats to pair with this wonderful wine.

Located in Salento, Varvaglione winery is currently managed by the fourth generation of the family that “oversees each step of the winemaking process by carefully selecting grapes that bring the essence of Puglia to every glass, and remains actively involved to preserve the region’s true winemaking heritage.”

To learn more, go to https://varvaglione.com/en/.

From Portugal, hearty red wines bring you the spirit of Alentejo, a picturesque southern wine region known since the times of antiquity.

The 2022 Coelheiros Red is a sustainably produced and hand-harvested 50/50 blend of touriga nacional and Alicante Bouschet, the red wine grapes, indigenous to Alentejo. Aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, this full-bodied wine with mild acidity and soft tannins has a beautiful ruby color, red fruit aroma, notes of black fruit, cedar and spice on the palate, and 13.5% ABV. The producer, Herdade de Coelheiros is an 800-hectare estate, founded in 1991 that pursues minimal intervention and sustainable organic farming. This intense and concentrated wine is perfect for grilled meats, ubiquitous during the warm weather months.

A bit stronger 14.5% ABV 2018 Dona Maria Grande Reserva Alentejo DOC, estate grown and bottled, comes from the old vines of Alentejo. It‘s a blend of 50% Alicante Bouschet, 20% syrah, 20% petit verdot, and 10% touriga nacional. Remarkably, this dark-red garnet wine with silky tannins and persistent finish was fermented in ancient marble open air tanks, and pressed with the traditional foot-treading method before aging in French oak. Dona Maria’s intense aromas of wild fruit are intertwined with spices and mint, which makes it a great match for beef and lamb dishes as well as grilled vegetables and aged cheeses.

To learn more, go to https://winesofportugal.com/en/discover/wine-regions/alentejo/.

Subterra is a wine producing brand with a family history extended for over a century, and a mission to unearth the unknown wines of quality and character. This spring, Subterra graces our festive all-occasion gatherings with four new California wines with deep European roots. As part of the 3 Badge Beverage Corporation portfolio, the company follows the lead of August Sebastiani, President of 3 Badge Beverage Corporation who says, “Consumers are looking for wines that feel effortless—great on a weeknight, great for gathering, and still a strong value. These new releases stay true to what matters most – thoughtful sourcing, balance, and a price point that fits the everyday budget.”

A flagship 2022 Subterra Los Olivos District Pinot Noir, made with grapes grown in Santa Barbara County on California’s Central Coast, comes from the ideally situated from the climate standpoint region with hot daytime temperatures and cool nights. The 13.8% ABV Los Olivos pinot is the epitome of wine elegance, immediately recognized by its almost deep purple color, bright, fruit-forward aroma, black cherry and gentle spice palate, light acidity, and smooth, balanced finish.

The other exquisite new varietals include a distinct California-style 2024 Chardonnay with pronounced Golden Delicious apple notes mixed with pineapple, dragon fruit, and pomelo; a pleasantly tannic 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon with bright plum, blackberry and spice flavors; and a citrusy 2024 Sauvignon Blanc with delicate floral and fresh herbs aroma, and notes of Canary melon, lemon zest, and lime, producing clean acidity in the aftertaste.

“Established in 2015, 3 Badge Beverage Corporation is a négociant representing an innovative portfolio of terroir-driven wines and craft spirits from around the globe. Headquartered out of a historic, refurbished fire station in Sonoma, California, 3 Badge is led by fourth-generation vintner August Sebastiani. Named for his grandfather’s volunteer firefighting service badges, 3 Badge is built upon a philosophy of exceptional craftsmanship and commitment to place. Additional information can be found at www.3badge.com. ”

To learn more, go to https://www.subterrawines.com/.

Wine lovers and non-drinkers alike inevitably take care of the water upon their holiday tables and picnic blankets. Healthy, delicious, and beautiful to look in cobalt blue glass bottles that preserve its natural properties, Splendor Water, sourced from a volcanic aquifer deep in La Maná, Ecuador, and bottled at the source, is your best choice for day in and day out happenings. This clean, mineral-rich water, naturally filtered through lava deposits and basalt rocks of the Cotopaxi Volcano, and infused with trace colloidal gold and silver, turns into a revitalizing elixir that hydrates your body, elevates your energy levels, and sharpens focus to keep you going.

Be it everyday problem solving, complicated assignments demanding all your mental strength, or physical activities, like trail running, cycling, gym or yoga, your proper hydration is guaranteed with Splendor Water, rich with electrolytes and minerals like potassium, magnesium, and calcium, vital for stamina and fatigue prevention.

Splendor Water is available still and sparkling, marked by golden or silvery metal caps. Pristine, with crisp taste and refreshing feel, this is truly “living water” that supports cellular recovery, mental clarity, and overall wellbeing.

To learn more, go to https://splendorwater.com/collections/.

Oakland Restaurant Week 2026 Starts Tomorrow

2026-03-11T18:14:00.000-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

Founded in 2010, the annual 10-day “restaurant week” in Oakland, California, has been created by Visit Oakland—a non-profit organization with a mission “to increase the economic impact of tourism to Oakland through destination development, marketing, and brand management.”

A big part of the organization’s activity is to provide support to local restaurants and promote the city's incredibly rich culinary scene, helmed by renowned chefs and featuring an amazing array of ethnic cuisines, local specialties, and intriguing fusions, rooted in California’s agricultural bounty.

Suffice it to say that Oakland boasts 24 Michelin-recognized restaurants, like Burdell, MAMA Oakland, Mägo, Millennium, Taqueria El Paisa, and others.

For a festive Oakland Restaurant Week 2026 that opens tomorrow, March 12, and continues through March 22, dozens of Oakland restaurants, big and small, casual and upscale, will offer lunch and dinner menus, attractively priced, and open to the city dwellers and travelers from near and far.

Named the #1 Best Food City in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler’s readers for the second year in a row, Oakland has a lot to offer in terms of unique culinary experiences. No matter which participating restaurants and how many of them you choose this spring, you surely won’t be disappointed, and the gustatory memory will linger for years to come.

“Oakland Restaurant Week is a wonderful way to share our amazing culinary scene with locals and visitors alike,” said Peter Gamez, President & CEO of Visit Oakland. “Our cultural diversity is showcased as our talented chefs create cuisine inspired by their heritage and family traditions. With 140+ participating restaurants and bars, delicious food and cocktails can be found in every neighborhood in The Town. Oakland Restaurant Week is the perfect time to come to Oakland, stay the night, check out several restaurants, and experience #1 Best Food City in the U.S.!”

Launched this year, Oakland Restaurant Week’s "Idea Guide" lists signature ORW cocktails, DJ-hosted dinners, interactive art happenings, and sip-and-shop events with local retailers throughout the most popular city neighborhoods—Jack London Square, Temescal, Uptown, and Fruitvale. Participating restaurants are organized by neighborhood, cuisine, meal type, and price point with lunches at $15, $25, and $35 per person, and dinners—$35, $45, and $65.

Enjoy some pics from the Industry Night ORW 2026 opening, taken at the wonderful new (only one year old!) Prescott Market West Oakland, where many wonderful eateries found their brick and mortar home.

For the full list of participating restaurants, hotels, special events, and reservations, visit https://www.visitoakland.com/events/annual-events/restaurant-week/.

How to Look an Elegant Adventurer

2026-03-08T20:12:00.000-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

Among all the trendy international brands for outdoors fashion I pick the Royal Robbins’ functional and lightweight women’s clothing time and again.

Not only comfy and soft, easy to wear and care for, these items are also elegant and presentable enough to make you look more like an urban explorer than a rugged wanderer, no matter where your adventures take you.

Started in 1968 by the world-famous mountaineer Royal Robbins and his wife, Liz Robbins—the first woman to climb a Grade VI route—the family company that allegedly has been invented in their climbing expedition in Yosemite National Park, quickly became a standout among all the other manufacturers of outdoors attire.

An easily recognizable company logo, Adventure Tree, a schematic combination of two iconic images—sequoia, endemic to Northern California, and a signpost from the Pacific Crest Trail—serves as a symbol of durable, high-quality wearables, made of tried and true materials, like cotton, hemp, and wool. Royal Robbins shirts, pants, and dresses feel nice to the touch, have a movement-friendly fit, and are dyed the colors of the surrounding nature. They were created for constant travelers, “so they could climb, hike, trek, ride, travel, and talk about it all night around the fire.” As the company founders put it, “Nature and adventure are good for the soul.”

The Royal Robbins Spring 2026 collection has quite a few new products, destined to become crowd pleasers:

Salathé Sun Shirts comfortable and breathable, with short sleeve, long sleeve, and hoodie style, with certified UPF 40+ sun protection and Royal Robbins’ Mosquito Protection Technology. This innovative technology provides highly effective and lasting protection from mosquito bites. Also available in Expedition Pro 3/4 Sleeve, Expedition III L/S, and Wilder Pant; Hemp Adventure Collection, crafted with natural, lower-impact fibers, and designed with temperature regulation and odor resistance; and Desert/Camino Pucker shirt in vivid colors and vintage prints.

My pick is Women's Oasis Tunic II, cotton, 3/4 sleeve, color Navy.

This button-down classic tunic, made of responsibly farmed preferred cotton (farmed using lower-impact practices than conventional cotton) is breathable and flattering, naturally soft and durable, with curved hem and ¾ sleeves that can be hiked and fastened to short. The tufted fabric that won’t ever get too wrinkled or necessary to iron makes for a sophisticated look even in the most adventurous travel circumstances.

Find out more and order your own at https://www.royalrobbins.com/us/en-us/.

Wonder Juice is a Real Wonder (Just Look at the Ingredients List)

2026-03-06T15:49:00.000-08:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

All juices are NOT created equal! If your dentist drilled it in your head that a glass of orange juice you like so much is just liquid candy, and you should avoid it, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by Wonder Green newest creations from Wonder Juice, a lifestyle brand of Kayco Beyond, the natural and specialty foods division of Kayco, based in Bayonne, New Jersey, and retailing nationwide.

Wonder Juice’s one-serving recyclable glass bottles with consumer-friendly design became a signature packaging of the brand, and now there are two new Wonder Green flavors of 100% organic fruit and vegetable cold pressed juices with no added sugar or water, Clean Green and Veg8 + Cayenne.

“Clean Green and Veg8 + Cayenne are a natural evolution of the Wonder Juice brand,” said Michele Abo, General Manager of Kayco Beyond. “Our consumers want juices that work harder for them — delivering real nutrition, vibrant flavor, and variety without compromise. These two new blends bring exciting personality to the green juice category, whether you’re looking for something refreshing and light or bold with a little heat. They strengthen our lineup and give retailers even more ways to engage shoppers who are building healthier daily habits.”

The Clean Green is a healthy bundle in a bottle, powered by kale, cucumber, green apple, spinach, mint, celery, lemon, and parsley juices—all organic, freshly tasting, and energizing, as if you’ve just brought it all from the farmers market straight to your juicer—only without any effort from your side! It’s smooth, pleasantly thick, with a slight natural sweetness from apples and cucumbers, and positively green, like the first buds of spring.

The Veg8 + Cayenne can easily play a lead in a spicy Bloody Mary liquid breakfast on a lazy Sunday, but its bold and invigorating kick will also be much appreciated by anyone who prefers hot and spicy over bland and mild any time of day. Made of tomato, celery, carrot, spinach, beet, parsley, lettuce, and watercress organic juices, and spiced with organic cayenne pepper, it delivers tons of flavor, and only 6 grams of natural sugar from carrots and beets.

“Our cold-pressed juices are both healthy and delicious,” states the company website. “Our drinks deliver 100% organic fruits and veggies, cold-pressed to lock in nutrients and bold, refreshing flavor. No preservatives, no artificial ingredients—just pure, plant-powered goodness. Every sip is packed with vitamins and antioxidants to fuel your body and energize your day. Grab a bottle for a morning boost, a post-workout refresh, or a natural way to stay healthy. With every drop, you’re getting real ingredients, real flavor, and real health. Nothing fake. Nothing extra. Just pure, cold-pressed goodness at its best. Our juices are made from fruits, vegetables, and spices grown without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or GMOs. Sourced from sustainable farms, every ingredient meets USDA organic standards.”

At the Natural Products Expo West 2026 at Anaheim Convention Center this week, Kayco Beyond showcased its portfolio of innovative lifestyle brands including Wonder Juice in accordance with their mission of “emphasizing sustainable farming, fair trade, and eco-friendly packaging.”

For more information, visit www.drinkwonderjuices.com, www.kayco.com.

V-Day Gifts for All Kinds of Lovers

2026-02-11T21:08:00.000-08:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

Wine and roses are surely a match made in heaven for Valentine’s Day, but thoughtful gifts that correspond to our loved ones’ personal preferences most likely will get us some extra points!

For Staying Home

Rest assured, we’re not discarding wines. Expertly paired with food, they turn even a modest celebratory dinner at home into a lavish feast!

We all know that low-alcohol wines complement lighter dishes, like appetizers and salads; full-bodied wines pair well with meat-and-sauce main courses, and sweet wines are intended for desserts.

You’ll find high quality, attractively priced wines coming from near and far on our V-Day list, specially compiled for when you plan to romance your partner by creating a memorable edible experience in your own kitchen.

Sparkling for starters and seafood

From the vineyard-rich Loire Valley in central France, comes Langlois Crémant de Loire NV Brut Réserve Methode Traditionnelle, featuring a blend of Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc. Pale gold, with fine delicate bubbles, and notes of crisp apple, pear, brioche, citrus, and toasted almond, it delivers a dry, fresh, and complex experience. Pairs well with oysters, chilled shellfish, and creamy cheeses.

Available at https://www.wine.com/product/langlois-cremant-de-loire-brut-reserve/39545#promoBarModal

Domaine Pichot Clos Saint Mathurin 2018 Vouvray Methode Traditionelle a sparkling Chenin Blanc, is suitable for sushi, oysters, and delicate white fish. It pairs best with creamy, savory dips, like spinach and sour cream, or artichoke and parmesan. Its bright acidity and brioche notes match well with white meat in cream sauce, and fruit-based desserts.

Available at: https://www.wine.com/product/domaine-pichot-clos-saint-mathurin-sparkling-methode-traditionelle-2018/2548253

Guinigi Prosecco D.O.C. is best paired with a charcuterie board of Italian cured meats, salumi and cheeses. Straw color sparkles with golden highlights in pearly, persistent bubbles. Delicate aromas of acacia and wisteria yield to fruity notes of apple, white peach, and citrus. https://www.guinigiwines.com/prosecco-d-o-c/

Rosé for green salad and goat cheese

Catherine & Pierre Breton 2024 La Ritournelle Rosé Bourgueil Loire Valley is a high-demand organic biodynamic light to medium-bodied peach-colored Cabernet Franc with aromas of red cherry, strawberry, herbs, and flavors of watermelon, peaches, and lemon. Best kept on ice and poured generously it won't overwhelm the subtle flavors of tender greens and tangy goat cheeses.

Available at: https://www.wine.com/product/catherine-and-pierre-breton-la-ritournelle-rose-2024/3543378

Reds for poultry, ham, and other meats

Domaine Fabrice Gasnier 2023 Les Graves Cabernet Franc Chinon is a biodynamic, 100% Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley, with aromas of violet, peony, and lilac, and flavors of red cherry, raspberry and strawberry. Lightly tannic and medium-bodied, it has a hint of spice, and is ideal for roast chicken, grilled pork chops, sausages, charcuterie boards, and game meats as well as tomato-based pasta sauces, or grilled and roasted vegetables.

Available at: https://www.wine.com/product/domaine-fabrice-gasnier-chinon-les-graves-2023/2523984

Cedar + Salmon Pinot Noir 2023 Willamette Valley is fruit-forward, with moderate tannins and aromas of black cherry, blackberry, plum, and herbs. It’s well-suited for pairing with roasted salmon, duck breast, pork tenderloin, and mushroom risotto. https://www.cedarandsalmonwines.com/2023-willamette-valley-pinot-noir/

Subterra Los Olivos District Pinot Noir 2022 is a typical medium-bodied, savory California Central Coast Pinot Noir with notes of cherry, licorice, and pepper, high acidity and light smokiness. A great match for roasted poultry, salmon, pork, and mushroom dishes, creamy cheeses and charcuterie. https://www.subterrawines.com/2022-los-olivos-pinot-noir/

Gehricke Russian River Valley Zinfandel Windsor California 2022 possesses an enticing color with deep purple hues, sweet aromas of strawberry jam, jelly doughnuts, sugar, and allspice. Fruit-forward flavors of ripe blackberry and raspberry, and a touch of white pepper pair perfectly with ham, pork chops, barbecue meats, pizza, and hard cheeses. https://www.gehrickewines.com/shop/?view=product&slug=Gehricke-2022-Russian-River-Valley-Zinfandel

Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva 2018 is a classic, versatile, medium-bodied red, closely associated with romance and passion. Campo Viejo (Spain) has long been recognized as a hallmark of quality, and Rioja Reserva vintage clearly demonstrates elegance and complexity of this brand. A blend of Tempranillo, Graciano, and Mazuelo grapes, it carries out notes of cherry, plum, vanilla, and cocoa, which makes it a wonderful accompaniment for roasted beef, lamb, and pork, Spanish jamon, chorizo, Manchego and Iberico cheeses, and grilled artichoke. Its soft tannins complement practically any dish of Spanish-inspired cuisine. https://www.campoviejo.com/product/reserva/.

For Traveling by Air

LEVEL8, a premium luggage brand that produces durable suitcases, backpacks, and carry-ons, offers you and your beloved traveler a top-of-the-line cabin bag that comes with a comprehensive Instruction Manual so you could familiarize yourself with “Your Intimate Travel Companion,” as the company puts it.

LEVEL8 carry-on has a packing capacity 43 liters, and features a wide telescopic handle with four adjustable positions; four 360-degree quiet spinner wheels; multiple compartments, including a large front pocket for convenient retrieval of on-the-road necessities, big enough to hold a laptop in a LEVEL8 laptop case; a password protected TSA lock; integrated structural design that ensures strength and resistance to deformation. Its durability comes from EVA Hard Shell lightweight cover made from Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) foam, offering semi-rigid, impact-resistant protection due to a molded shape of the water resistant material. The TSA lock comes with its own USB cable and USB port through which you can charge jour device.

“Our carefully selected array of stylish suitcases not only carry your belongings, but also enhance your travel convenience. Durable materials, ergonomic handles, smooth-rolling wheels, and smart organizational compartments are just a few elements making our suitcases outstanding,” states the company. https://www.level8cases.com/?abtr=true&view=eab-o0eYqcMLA2

For Traveling by Car

Ohsnap’s Car Power Kit magnetically holds and charges your phone. When on the road, especially during your romantic V-Day trip, the last thing you should worry about is losing your phone power, getting lost and pressed to ask for directions!

“Everyone’s got a phone, but most phone accessories are cheap, ugly, or just don’t work well together,” say the creators of small, sleek, and highly efficient new gadgets. “That’s why at Ohsnap, we make accessories that don’t suck: beautiful phone grips, stands, cases, and chargers that make life with your phone less of a hassle, and a whole lot more awesome.”

The car power kit contains easy to set up magnetic Snap Car Mount with milled aluminum base, a high-bond adhesive, auto-alignment with MagSafe, and a silicone pad in the center to improve grip. It works with every phone. Snap Charge Qi2 is a premium, magnetic auto-aligning wireless charger with stainless steel frame and built in 4ft USB-C cable to wirelessly charge your phone at 15 watts.

Snap Charge works with every phone that has capability for wireless charging. iPhones 8 and up are wireless charging capable, and most modern Android phones are as well. Qi2 is a wireless charging standard that uses magnets to improve charging speed and efficiency while also improving heat dissipation and efficiency. https://ohsnap.com/.

For Allergen-Free Gluten-Free Nutritious Breakfast

Surprising your loved one with a delicious breakfast is a sacred staple of any V-Day celebration, and baked goods are definitely a staple of any good breakfast! But what if you or your partner must deal with some food restrictions? Look no further than the wholesome supergrain breads, bagels, and English muffins from Queen St. Bakery, gluten-free, and loaded with fiber and protein!

Queen St. Bakery’s Supergrain Sourdough Bread is not only gluten-free and vegan. It’s created to provide maximum nutritional value that comes from sorghum sourdough, white bean and arrowroot flours, tapioca fiber, chia seeds, psyllium husk, extra virgin olive oil, and other prebiotic-rich ingredients that elevate your morning toast to the level of superfood.

Queen St. Bakery’s allergen-free bagels, like Superfood Bagels with Benefits and Cinnamon Raisin Bagels, and flavorful Superfodl English Muffins with Benefits are packed with iron, fiber, protein, Omega-3s, and nutrients that support your healthy gut bacteria, promote steady blood sugar, and leave you healthfully satiated with ingredients like chia, flax, millet, sorghum, white beans, and fava beans.

Using these healthful and innovative baked goods in your tried and true recipes, like bagels with cream cheese and smoked salmon, grilled cheese sandwiches, or English muffins with breakfast sausage will work splendidly, but feel free to create your own recipes, because no matter how you use these allergen-free goodies, the results won’t disappoint you—the good taste is already there! https://queenstreetbakery.com/en-us.

For the Upcoming Lunar New Year

This year’s closeness of some of the most beloved holidays—Valentine’s Day and Lunar New Year makes us think about duly preparing for both, February 14 and February 17!

The Tsingtao Brewery, in operation since 1903, is the sixth-largest beer producer in the world, and sells its products in more than 120 countries. For the 2026 Lunar New Year, Tsingtao created limited-edition packaging that celebrates the Year of the Horse with bold red and gold design indicative of the ideas of strength and prosperity. The visuals incorporate an image of Fire Horse, the seventh animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac, that symbolizes energy, speed, and freedom, and convey the meaning of good fortune, growth, and success.

Available in the U.S. through early March 2026, the collector bottles and gift packs of the classic lager are intended for gifting and celebrating the traditional holiday while enhancing Tsingtao’s international appeal. The special holiday design aligns with the brand's expansion in the U.S. market, since the limited-edition packs are distributed by Paulaner USA, in a nationwide promotion.

Tsingtao Premium Lager is brewed in a prolonged fermentation process that results in a pleasant malty aroma and well-balanced taste. Crisp and refreshing beer is made with pure spring water from Laoshan Mountain, domestically grown hops, premium yeast, and barley imported from Australia and Canada.

Paulaner USA is the exclusive U.S. importer of Tsingtao, the #1 Chinese imported beer in the U.S

“As consumers gather to celebrate Lunar New Year, we’re proud to support a brand like Tsingtao that brings families and communities together,” says Andy Glaser, President and CEO of Paulaner USA. “That relevance, paired with Tsingtao’s continued growth in the U.S., speaks to the brand’s enduring appeal and strong connection with today’s consumers.”

“The Year of the Horse represents progress and forward momentum, values that align closely with Tsingtao’s journey in the U.S.,” said Harry Liu, Vice President of International, Tsingtao Brewery. “As we celebrate the Year of The Horse, we’re proud to continue sharing our heritage with consumers while embracing modern traditions and new opportunities for growth.”

For more information about Tsingtao, go to www.tsingtao.com

More information about Paulaner USA at www.paulanerusa.com.

Dry January at Fog Harbor Fish House San Francisco

2026-01-20T14:58:00.000-08:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

As we all know, start-of-the-year gym subscriptions are usually short-lived. Rarely fitness-conscious subscribers extend their efforts past January. Obviously, if the advanced payments for the anticipated bright future in health and fitness are non-refundable, the industry suffers very little. It’s the hopeful wannabees who lose money and sometimes self-confidence when they can’t keep up with their own aspirations.

From this perspective, producers of all kinds of beverages act in a much more realistic manner. By submitting to the Dry January trend they let the consumers decide to stop rejecting alcohol past the one-month trial period or to go on with excluding alcohol from their lives altogether, for better health and prosperity.

Besides the January trend, nowadays more people, especially of a younger age, are looking for either low-alcohol or non-alcohol options when they gather to eat out. So, the number of restaurants that add alcohol-free drinks to their wine lists is growing. As a result of this movement, non-consuming diners no longer have to resort to “just water, please” or sweetened canned sodas that hardly pair well with fresh seasonal cuisine. Creative new non-alcoholic drinks don’t make you feel like you’re missing on all the fun just because you’re a designated driver tonight, or you’re going dry for the entire month (or longer).

Fog Harbor Fish House, a popular San Francisco restaurant on the historic PIER 39, offering enticing views of the city waterfront, Alcatraz Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge, serves notable fresh catch dishes, easily paired with an extensive selection of refreshing mocktails. Some of the mock cocktails are based on zero proof liqueurs, others use fruit juices and mixers, but while successfully mimicking the complexity of their alcohol cousins, these drinks won’t make you tipsy, so you can indulge in more than one, and see what works best for you.

Jalapeño Cucumber Mezcal Margarita is made with Zero Proof Mezcal, muddled jalapeño, cucumber, and sweet & sour, and it has a spicy tajin rim. This potent drink provides a nice peppery kick that goes well with signature Fog Harbor Clam Chowder, “The Best in San Francisco” and Fresh House Baked Sourdough Bread.

Red Dragon with Zero Proof Gin, Bundaberg Ginger Beer, fresh lime juice, cherry juice, and cranberry juice is a nice accompaniment to both cold and hot starters, like Ahi Tuna Poke—an artful tower of marinated raw tuna, avocado, mango, sesame-soy sauce, and wasabi aioli on a puff toast, and Crab Cakes with harissa aioli, mixed greens and mango.

Cranberry Press, made of muddled cranberries, fresh squeezed lemon juice, soda water, and sugar serves as a cool counterbalance for a silky Sambuca cream and garlic aioli on a plate of classic Mussel Fries, roasted in onions and fennel.

There are more impressively different mocktails on the list of Non-Alcoholic Beverages on the Fog Harbor menu: Virgin Islands (Zero Proof Rum, orange, pineapple and lime juice, grenadine), Yuzu Nogarita (Zero Proof Tequila, fresh orange and lime juice, Korean chili threads, splash of soda water, tajin rim), Strawberry Lemonade (Lemonade with pureéd strawberries), Strawberry-Basil Nojito (Fresh mint, basil and strawberries muddled with fresh lime juice, and soda water), and Sparkling Ginger Lemonade (Fresh ginger muddled with fresh squeezed lemon, soda water, and sugar or Splenda).

It’s still January outside, so hurry to this wonderful restaurant, and pick a non-alcoholic drink you like!

Fog Harbor Fish House is located at 39 Pier, San Francisco, California. Call for reservations (415) 421-2442 or visit https://fogharbor.com/.

Top Ten Seasonal Foods & Wines, au santé!

2025-11-11T16:50:00.000-08:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

Brilliant fall colors, crisp morning air, and a heightened interest in scarves and sweaters might not be seasonal features in sunny California, but we’re all for healthy food and drink, especially if that tastes good. The following items, suggested for your pre-holiday shopping are of equally high quality and should be considered for their health benefits as well as for their superior taste.

Oceano Wines: Non-Alcoholic Pinot Noir and Reduced Alcohol Syrah

2022 Alcohol Removed Pinot Noir by Oceano was the industry’s highest-priced non-alcoholic wine ($55 a bottle), and yet it was sold out in record time. That signified a shift in attitude toward traditional entertainment, especially in younger consumers, who seek the high quality, taste, and aesthetic of wine-drinking without the alcohol. “Oceano Zero caters to those seeking a mindful drinking lifestyle without compromising on taste,” says Rachel Martin, Oceano’s founder and CEO. “This success not only highlights our brand's innovation, but also illustrates the transformation of attitudes regarding non-alcoholic wine. Consumers don’t want to settle for sparkling cider from the grocery store, they are seeking out sophisticated options that compete aggressively with the alcoholic wines they love.”

Since its first releases, Oceano Wines expanded the non-alcoholic portfolio to include Chardonnay, and added 2023 reduced-alcohol Syrah at 3.5%. https://oceanowines.com/about/find-our-wines/.

Cedar + Salmon Pinot Noir

2023 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir comes from the boutique winery Cedar + Salmon whose very name refers to the most prominent natural resources of Oregon wilderness. To celebrate the fall season at home, bring in this classic, easy-drinking, and attractively priced red with well-balanced complexity of the blackberry, plum, and cherry notes, herbal highlights, and a long finish of dry fruit aftertaste. The crops from small family vineyards carry the flavors and aromas of the Pacific Northwest, and the wines are lush and flavorful, representative of the unique terroir. The artistic spirit of the region is reflected in the bottling labels depicting woodcut prints of cedar and ash trees endemic to the area. Produced and distributed by 3 Badge Beverage Corporation, available nationally. www.cedarandsalmonwines.com.

Attems: Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc

2023 Attems Pinot Grigio and 2023 Attems Sauvignon Blanc are produced by the historic family winery in Friuli Venezia Giulia in the northeastern part of Italy, Collio DOC. According to the historical records, the name Attems is tied to the area’s land ownership and viticulture since the 12^th century. Same as centuries ago, Attems works with native grapes such as ribolla gialla and friulano, but also with wider-grown international varieties, like sauvignon blanc, pinot grigio, and chardonnay. The Pinot Grigio is a classic white with a beautiful straw color, clear and exuberant aroma, and notes of wildflowers, cedar and Williams pear with hints of cocoa butter and vanilla. Balanced acidity leads to the finish of white pepper and citrus peel. The Sauvignon Blanc offers a straw, slightly greenish color and a complex bouquet of boxwood, wisteria, and lily of the valley; crisp, tangy acidity and full flavors of pomelo, pear, and bergamot. https://www.attems.it/en/.

Flower Chef Foods: Artisanal Gluten-Free Penne

Flower Chef Foods is a health-conscious producer of high-protein, gluten-free pasta, based in Seattle, Washington, and crafted in Italy by a celebrity chef Jules Houser. Artisanal penne and other pasta varieties from the brand, whose motto is, “Eat Well, Love Well, Live Well,” do not skimp on flavor and texture, while delivering superior nutrition. “We believe comfort food should never come with compromise,” says Houser, founder and CEO of Flower Chef Foods. “Our pastas are designed for people who value good food and good values. This isn’t just gluten-free pasta; it’s an invitation to eat with joy, intention, and connection.” The company uses the finest plant-based ingredients sourced across Italy, where Houser works directly with top producers to meet the global market demand for gluten-free pasta. With a commitment to quality, health, and sustainability, Flower Chef Foods brings us a more forgiving version of the beloved penne with the same authenticity we know and love in Italian pasta dishes. To make a wholesome and delicious meal, follow Chef’s recipes with possible creative variations. For example: Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water. Sauté several thinly sliced garlic cloves in extra virgin olive oil until golden. Add some drops of chili oil. Toss pasta into the pan with a splash of pasta water. Swirl to coat and gloss. Add salt and pepper to taste. Top with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately. https://flowercheffoods.com/.

Rocim: Mariana, Red and White; Amphora, Red and White

2024 Mariana Branco, 2023 Marana Tinto, 2024 Herdade do Rocim Amphora Branco, and 2024 Herdade do Rocim Amphora Tinto are excellent wines from the Portuguese winery Herdade do Rocim, located in the southernmost wine sub-region of Alentejo. These wines are made from a blend of native fruit growing along the Vidigueira fault—a natural division between Alto and Baixo Alentejo and one of the most temperate sub-regions in the area. A Herdade do Rocim’s winemaker, Pedro Ribeiro, creates fresh, elegant and mineral wines through the use of indigenous Portuguese grape varieties and innovative winemaking techniques. The winery adheres to the philosophy of sustainability, minimal intervention, respect of the terroir, and the use of only wild yeasts. https://rocim.pt/en/herdade-do-rocim/.

Wildly Virgin Olive Oil

Packed in impressively artistic glass bottles, and ranging from smooth and buttery to bold and spicy, Wildly Virgin award-winning olive oils from Portugal will make your holiday meals unforgettable, be it an appetizer vegetable salad, fish or meat main course, or even an ice cream dessert. Fragrant, complex, and well-balanced, these oils are a pleasure to behold and a joy to consume from the first whiff of a fresh, summery aroma from the just-opened bottle to the finishing peppery punch from your tasting cup. “At Wildly Virgin, we do things differently,” state the co-founders Nader Akhnoukh (EVOO Sommelier) and Riley Gibson. “We scour the wild lands of Portugal to find the most spectacular olive oils, focusing on premium, small batch, single-origin harvests, produced by independent growers who have made olive oil their life’s work.” The brand’s mission is to elevate olive oil to the level of fine wine by introducing new varietals, regions, and tasting experiences that feel indulgent, intentional, and unforgettable. Spoil yourself, or surprise practically anyone on your gift list with an elegantly designed bottle of this precious liquid gold. https://wildlyvirgin.com/.

Santa Rita Casa Real Cabernet Sauvignon

Wines from Chile firmly established their rightful place on wine connoisseurs’ roster even in abundantly viticultural California! Similar to the Golden State, and almost like its mirror image, Chile stretches along the Pacific Coast, only on the South American continent, boasting equally stunning natural landscapes, varied wine regions, and rich winemaking heritage. Viña Santa Rita is one of the leading wineries in the Maipo Valley, not far from the capital city of Santiago. The historic winery is known not only for the excellent wines it produces, but also for a recently renovated, multiple award-winning Hotel Casa Real, formerly the summerhouse of the winery’s founder, Domingo Fernández Concha, located in a unique for Chile, late 19th-century classical style 40-hectare park. A special commemorative cabernet sauvignon, 2019 Santa Rita Casa Real Reserva Especial, created by winemaker Sebastián Labbé, carries an image of the Hotel Casa Real on its label, and is made with fruit harvested right here, at the estate vineyard. In more than 140 years, the label image remains unchanged as well as the high quality of the wine. https://www.santarita.com/.

Valdo Prosecco Superiore

Any celebration, big or small, must include the most valued holiday marker—a bottle of sparkling wine. Not many of them can compete with Valdo Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Brut—the most elegant, expressive, and well-balanced palate pleaser with bright floral aroma and a myriad of tiny delicate bubbles. Made of the regional grape varieties—90% glera and 10% chardonnay, this prosecco has a light-yellow straw color, sweetly-fruity notes of pear and golden delicious apple, and a harmonious, satisfying aftertaste, that deems this effervescent wine suitable for food pairings of seafood and salads as well as for cheese- and fruit courses and desserts. The original winery, founded in 1926 by the Società Anonima Vini Superiori had been acquired by the Bolla family back in 1938, and for almost a century, the tradition of manual harvesting, controlled fermentation, and time-honored wine-making techniques continues uninterrupted. Valdo's winemakers each year reaffirm their commitment to quality and innovation by upholding the legacy of crafting exceptional, perennially popular, world-renowned prosecco wines. https://us.valdo.com/collections/all.

Dave’s All Natural Syrups

To sweeten your morning coffee with something exceedingly more flavorful than sugar, or to enliven your evening cocktails with delightful depth and complexity, try Dave’s All Natural Vanilla Cardamom Syrup for Coffee and Cocktails. Crafted in Rhode Island in small batches using only natural ingredients, the syrup is “made to compliment, not compete,” and surely adds warmth and elegance to morning lattes, gin and rum cocktails, and even baked goods, if you’re so inclined. Another great seasonal treat—Dave’s All Natural Maple Pumpkin Spice Syrup for Coffee and Cocktails will be a welcome addition to everything from the cold-weather coffee and cocoa to pancakes and waffles, not to mention celebratory cocktails with lots of holiday cheer. Perfect for all your indoor entertainment ideas in fall-winter season, Dave’s Syrups are not to be missed! www.DavesCoffee.com.

Graham’s Tawny Port

Graham’s 10 Year Old Tawny Port and Graham's 20 Year Old Tawny Port from Symington Family Estates hardly require introduction, but if you’re still unfamiliar with this pure indulgence in a bottle, welcome to the fall season with a taste of luxury! Winemaker Charles Symington of the Symington Family Estates, located in Porto, Portugal, uses only the highest quality grapes from their revered vineyards in the Douro Valley to produce the purest and most distinct traditional port through careful blending, cooperage, and prolonged aging in seasoned oak casks for the precious wine to reach its peak maturity. Graham’s 10 Year Old Tawny Port has a brilliant deep color, nutty aromas with hints of honey and figs, and red fruit and vanilla flavors on the palate with a long finish. Graham's 20 Year Old Tawny Port is a masterful result of the skillful blending with a complex bouquet with hints of orange peel, mature black and red fruit. Its rich and smooth taste, assured by aging, gives way to a balanced and elegant finish. Intended for sipping and savoring, Graham’s Tawny Port is your go-to holiday after dinner drink, and a great pairing for cheese plates and desserts. https://www.grahams-port.com/wine/10-years-old/10, https://www.grahams-port.com/wine/20-years-old/11.

Six Bay Area Vestar Shopping Centers to Host Annual Halloween Spooktacular Events

2025-10-19T13:25:00.000-07:00

Get ready for thrills, treats, and a whole lot of fun! Several Bay Area shopping centers are celebrating the season’s most spectacular holiday, Halloween, with their highly anticipated Annual Halloween Spooktacular events, which are free community celebrations that promise festive fun for kids and adults—Halloween enthusiasts of all ages.

An afternoon will be filled with family-friendly Halloween fun, including face painters, interactive balloon artists, festive music, and free goodie bags for children (while supplies last). Come in costume and join the celebration at the following locations:

Alameda Landing, 2700 Fifth Street, Alameda

Friday, October 31, 2025, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM

Creekside Town Center, 1180 Galleria Boulevard, Roseville

Friday, October 24 from 4:00 - 6:00 pm

Downtown Pleasant Hill, 50 Crescent Blvd., Pleasant Hill

Sunday, October 26 from Noon – 3:00 PM

Hacienda Crossings Shopping Center, 5000 Dublin Blvd., Dublin, CA

Sunday, October 26, 2025, from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Pacific Commons Shopping Center, Fremont, CA

Saturday, October 25, from 3:00 – 5:00 pm

Rivermark Village, 3905 Rivermark Plaza, Santa Clara, CA

Saturday, October 25 from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

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Healthy Snacking Done Right

2025-08-30T11:50:00.000-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

For anyone who spends hours upon hours in front of a computer screen, big square meals would be a hindrance to work, while snacking at your desk is a viable way to supplement your brain with much needed nutrition and not overwhelm your innards with unusable extra calories.

Until recently, snacking has been associated with bad-bad-bad for you chips and candy or, for a “healthier” alternative—unappetizing dry bars, and dubious [diet] sodas—hardly nutritious, but falsely satisfying and therefore ubiquitous.

Thankfully, with some genius recent innovations in the snacking industry, things are starting to look up not only for office dwellers and freelancing hermits, but for students, travelers, road-riders, hikers, bikers, and boaters—anyone who needs a brief meal break in-between more important tasks and activities.

It became immediately obvious that healthy snacks are possible with real foods, and that by investing just a miniscule amount of effort anyone can create a delightful lunch break for themselves, that wouldn’t take too much time, and would maintain your stamina for a good working condition for hours on end.

Tonnino

In my kitchen, elegant glass jars of sustainably harvested premium tuna and wild-caught salmon by Tonnino brand possess an honorable place. Hand-packed in spring water or olive oil, some with natural flavor enhancers, like truffles, jalapeno or rosemary, delicate fish fillets are perfect for quick salads and sandwiches that deliver fresh Mediterranean flavor of the authentic, high-quality gourmet seafood.

Try my own salad recipe for Tonnino Pole & Line Wild Caught Albacore Tuna Fillets in Spring Water.

Put the entire jar of tuna, drained, into a bowl. Add to taste: chopped sweet onions, celery, pitted green olives, and mayonnaise. Mix slightly, and enjoy with bread or crackers.

Besides salads and sandwiches, Tonnino’s canned tuna and salmon are also great for pasta dishes, or served alongside grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or omelet. Find out more about the brand, and peruse recommended recipes at: https://tonnino.com/.

Everiday

If hard-pressed to admit what is my very favorite food among all the wonderful culinary creations I get to try as a food writer, I’ll say, Oh, just anything Asian! Growing up in Eastern Europe I had a very vague idea of Asian cuisine, and my first encounter with one of its staples—soy sauce—became a great revelation in my gustatory experience. I just couldn’t get enough of this magical brew. I used it in salads, fish, meat, and vegetable dishes, sprinkled it over pelmeni (our version of dumplings), and even added it to my signature borsch recipe.

Everiday Foods, a new brand of Asian-inspired chili sauces made with extra virgin olive oil, delivers not only fantastic taste with a satisfying kick in every bite, but a clean product, free from seed oils, gluten, dairy, refined sugar, and artificial ingredients.

Founded by Certified Holistic Nutritionist Riyana Rupani, with a motto, “Whole foods the whole time,” Everiday’s debut line features four Asian chili sauces—Red Chili, Sambal Chili, Garlic Chili, and Mala Chili—designed to elevate everyday meals with bold flavors and wholesome natural components.

“Today’s consumers refuse to choose between taste and wellness,” says Everiday Foods founder Rupani. “Our Asian-inspired chili oils and sauces harness bold, crave-worthy flavors while honoring clean-label principles. We’re excited to welcome food lovers to experience how nourishing ingredients can transform everyday meals.”

Everiday’s inaugural collection demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and high quality in every natural ingredient. For example, Red Chili sauce is a handcrafted blend of fresh red chili, EVOO, garlic, rice vinegar, dates, dried chili, lime juice, pink salt, chili padi (bird’s eye chili), and Kaffir lime leaves. Its flavor profile is layered with citrus brightness and a gentle kick, balanced by the richness of olive oil and natural sweetness from pitted dates. It’s vegan, and works across different cuisines, from sandwiches to dressings, soups and marinades.

Produced in small batches and sold in minimal-waste packaging, Everiday’s sauces should become your pantry’s staples that nourish body and soul. Try using it in a skillet of shakshouka or a pot of chili—you won’t be disappointed!

For Everiday’s mission, sales, and recipes, visit www.everidayfoods.com.

CurryCups

CurryCups dip is a little jar of magic—you experience one of the most popular Indian cuisine staples, Tikka Masala, without hunting for rare ingredients, following complicated traditional techniques, and engaging in lengthy preparations. Easy to use and good for snacking on the go, this extra burst of flavor is just a turn of a lid away!

CurryCups The Original, a creamy, bold, ready-to-eat dip, is made with clean ingredients and real spices, like fire-roasted tomatoes, ghee, honey, garlic, chickpeas, onion, lemon juice, Calabrian peppers, tamarind, ginger, cumin, black pepper, sesame oil, fenugreek, soy sauce, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, etc.

Versatile, and suitable for many uses, it can be eaten with chips, crackers or veggies right out of the jar, or incorporated into salad dressings, drizzled over savory baked goods, spread on sandwiches, and even used in your home cooking as simmering sauce for meat-and-rice dishes.

Due to the product’s room-temperature stability, the packable CurryCups can be taken on the road and are great for camping, tailgating or picnicking as a flavorful addition to any snacks. This dip is a first-of-its-kind representative of South Asian flavors made for casual outdoor consumption and for any festive occasion. Find out more at https://www.currycups.com/.

CoAqua Coconut Water

“It's just coconut water, but people keep telling us it's the best they've ever had,” say the co-founders of CoAqua, Justin Bruckel and Anthony Cadieux II. “We found these coconuts in Vietnam, didn't do anything fancy to them, and somehow ended up with something special. No processing, no wellness manifesto - just naturally excellent hydration that happened without trying.”

The founders might be a little too modest, since creating excellent foods and beverages that make way to our hearts [stomachs] takes a lot of trying and hard work, but here we are—a new beverage trend brings us pure, refreshing, delicious, nutritious, and eco-conscious CoAqua, a super-premium coconut water that can be enjoyed on its own, or as a game-changing ingredient in cocktails and mocktails.

Its crisp, clean taste, authentic and typical to a naturally ripen coconut, is fully preserved in the beverage resulting from the high quality ingredients. By sourcing young green coconuts in the Mekong River Delta (Vietnam)—the natural growing environment for this tropical fruit— the company harvests the perfect products of nutrient-rich soil and abundant sunshine, allowing the coconuts to develop their full flavor while supporting local communities through partnerships with small local farmers.

CoAqua is committed to sustainability. Packaged in eco-friendly light-weight, colorful aluminum cans, CoAqua’s coconut water comes in six varieties: Still Coconut Water, Sparkling Coconut Water, Citrus Circus (with yuzu juice), Lemony Passion (with passion fruit juice and lemon juice), Soursoppin' (with soursop juice), and Espresso'd (with coffee extract). The latter is this reporter’s favorite, providing a perfect morning combination of caffeine boost and hydration simultaneously!

CoAqua is available nationwide in retail at Sprouts, Wegmans, ShopRite, Giant, Gristedes and D'Agostino, Key Food, Foodtown, Kings, 7-Eleven, and online at drinkcoaqua.com and Amazon. 2% of revenue goes to the Bikes for Kids Foundation, supporting at-risk youth.

Learn more at: https://www.drinkcoaqua.com/.

The Hermit Calamari Jerky

Here’s a uniquely cool snack for you—The Hermit—the first 100% American wild-caught squid jerky that is pure protein, rich in Omega-3s, with no added sugar, low-carb, dairy- and grain-free, and has a spiced up taste and lightly chewy texture.

The company founder, Steven Shonts, picked up the dried squid preparations technique in his travels through East and Southeast Asia, and eager to recreate a similar product at home, experimented with various recipes in his Bangkok kitchen. After teaming up with food scientists who had worked with 3-Michelin-star restaurants, he produced the first American-sourced calamari jerky with an intriguing name, special spicing, and artful, eye-catching packaging.

“At The Hermit, we're embarking on a journey that combines adventure, sustainability, and a passion for clean, delicious food,” states the company website. “Our story begins with a love for exploration—both of the world and of ourselves. Inspired by the mystique of the Tarot and the allure of squid jerky discovered in the night markets of Asia, we set out to bring this unique snack to American adventurers.”

And so, The Hermit, as a symbol of self-discovery and a deeper connection with nature, brings you a unique treat, sustainably sourced from the depth of the American North Atlantic Ocean.

The Hermit Calamari Jerky is nutritious. It contains 29g of protein, 12g of collagen, and 488mg of Omega-3s per serving. It also uses natural and organic ingredients with no artificial preservatives, MSG, or sorbitol.

The Hermit Thai Chili Lime Calamari Jerky is made with squid, lime juice, fish collagen, olive oil, galangal, lemongrass, onion, garlic, kaffir lime oil, sea salt, Thai chili powder, and rosemary extract.

The Hermit Ginger Scallion Calamari Jerky ingredients are: squid, apple cider vinegar, fish collagen, chili powder, olive oil, garlic, onion, fish sauce, green onion, ginger, sea salt and rosemary extract.

For more interesting information visit https://thehermit.com.

Frankenstein at SF Ballet: A Triumph of Music, Dance, and Drama with a Philosophical Twist

2025-03-26T21:28:00.000-07:00

By Emma Krasov

Even as a long-term devoted fan of San Francisco Ballet, I can hardly recall another show of Frankenstein’s magnitude, so profoundly developed, so strikingly impressive and emotionally raw, and so masterfully transformed from Mary Shelley’s 1818 literary masterpiece into a classic/contemporary dance sensation. Thanks to the marvelously precise and highly sophisticated choreography by Liam Scarlett and the bold, assertive, and yet lyrical and romantic music score by Lowell Liebermann the classic horror tale comes alive in dance as expressive as if pronounced with the Gothic writer’s own words, as precise as if played on a drama theater stage, and as beautiful as a fine art painting depicting the tiniest details of figures and objects highlighted by the blinding light and menacing shadows.

Brought to the War Memorial Opera House audiences by the late choreographer’s trustee and stager Lauren Strongin and SF Ballet’s principal dancer Joseph Walsh, the lengthy story ballet, accompanied live by the impeccable San Francisco Ballet Orchestra, conducted by Ming Luke, engages the viewers strongly, immediately, and uninterruptedly. In this reviewer’s experience watching Frankenstein on a Sunday matinee, the cast appeared to be just perfect, with Victor Prigent as the Creature, Max Cauthorn as Victor Frankenstein, Dores André as Elizabeth Lavenza, Joanna Berman as Madame Moritz, Julia Rowe as Justine Moritz, Alexis Francisco Valdes as Henry Clerval, Nathaniel Remez as the Professor, and an outstanding corps de ballet in multiple incarnations.

In the most challenging and multifaceted role of the Creature, soloist Victor Prigent emanates in turn vulnerability and aggressiveness, naïveté and connivance, supernatural strength and mindless violence. In his exact yet flowing dance moves, his body seemingly expands to giant proportions or contracts to a child-like frame. His excellently performed final pas de deux with Victor is an epitome of Liam Scarlett’s mastery, now, unfortunately, gone forever, and can be seen as an homage to the great choreographer.

Embodied by the principal dancer Max Cauthorn, Victor Frankenstein, the Creature’s maker, ultimately shies away from any responsibility, just like people who create monsters do. His manner of expression, at first openhearted and sincere, turns to manic, when he becomes obsessed with an idea of reviving the dead, and to cold and reserved, when the time comes to acknowledge the consequences of his daring scientific experiments, inspired by the marvelously presented Professor (corps de ballet dancer Nathaniel Remez).

Another stunning level of emotional depth is delivered by the female characters in this male-centered scoop. Pure and demure Elizabeth, endlessly patient, never losing hope (principal dancer Dores André); stern and orderly Madame Moritz (principal character dancer Joanna Berman) who brings tears to the viewers’ eyes when she wails and collapses in the execution scene, and warm, kind, boisterous Justine (soloist Julia Rowe), wrongfully accused, evoking the audience’s compassion with her every subtle gesture, every desperate glance at her executors.

It’s simply astonishing, how the ancient science fiction, presented in the most abstract art form encompassing movement, music, and visual elements appears strikingly timely with the ongoing debates about artificial intelligence and news items about the onset of consciousness at 27 weeks of pregnancy, while scientist who work with human embryos discuss to what age they can ethically let those embryos grow.

Kudos to SF Ballet’s Artistic Director, Tamara Rojo, for bringing the genius choreographer’s work back to San Francisco!

Production Crew:

Scenic and Costume Design: John Macfarlane

Lighting by: David Finn

Projection Design: Finn Ross

In other roles: Young Victor: Santiago Stack Lozano; Young Elizabeth: Ava Allaire; Victor's Father Alphonse Frankenstein: Daniel Deivison-Oliveira; Victor's Mother Caroline Beaufort: Elizabeth Mateer; Victor's Younger Brother William Frankenstein: Liam Kelly; Young Justine: Camila Maldonado

Performing Artists of the Company: Sofia Albers, Rebecca Blenkinsop, Maya Chandrashekaran, Jihyun Choi, Thamires Chuvas, Carlota Cruz, Benjamin Davidoff, Luca Ferrò, Emmitt Friedman, Jacey Gailliard, Lleyton Ho, Katharine Lee, SunMin Lee, Lucas López, Elizabeth Mateer, Justin-Cooper Meeks, Swane Messaoudi, Davide Occhipinti, Pemberley Ann Olson, Hui-Wen Peng, João Percilio da Silva, Simone Pompignoli, Leili Rackow, Jasper True Stanford, Tyla Steinbach, Jamie Adele Stephens, Archie Sullivan, Ben Taber, Alexis Francisco Valdes, Mingxuan Wang, Angela Watson, Juliette Windey, Adrian Zeisel with Students of San Francisco Ballet School

Encore performances: April 26 at 8 pm, April 27 at 2 pm, April 29 at 7:30 pm, April 30 at 7:30 pm, May 1 at 7:30 pm, May 2 at 8 pm, May 3 at 2 pm and 8 pm, May 4 at 2 pm.

Photo credits:

Aaron Robison. Photo by Lindsay Thomas

Francis Chung and Joseph Walsh. Photo by Lindsey Rallo

Sasha de Sola and Joshua Jack Price. Photo by Lindsey Rallo

Oakland Restaurant Week, March 20-30, 2025

2025-03-18T17:00:00.000-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

Oakland Restaurant Week opens on March 20 and will last through March 30! Some highlights of the outstandingly rich and diverse Oakland’s culinary scene were presented during the Industry Night at the newly opened Dragon Gate restaurant at Jack London Square in Oakland.

Wonderful Oakland chefs, Mica Talmar (Pomella), Monique Feybesse (Tarts de Feybesse), Paul Iglesias (Parche), Jordan Stephen (Mama Oakland), Nelson German (alaMar Dominican Kitchen), Kasem Saengsawang (Farmhouse Kitchen), and others gave their industry guests a little taste of the upcoming food festival that promises to be outstanding!

More information and reservations at:

https://www.visitoakland.com/events/annual-events/restaurant-week/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjws-S-BhD2ARIsALssG0akM5-89SxdZf-m1esntPppmrjURoI_eEerggBiVB8NMoPv5L27hOQaAlUxEALw_wcB

Dubai Chocolate Sundae Created by Ghirardelli Chocolate Company in San Francisco Tomorrow at Noon

2025-03-07T12:08:00.000-08:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

If you’re in San Francisco this Saturday, don’t miss a one-of-a-kind event put together by the Ghirardelli Chocolate Company in Ghirardelli Square—one of the most popular tourist attractions in the City by the Bay.

On Saturday, March 8, at noon, the historic chocolate maker will release for the first time ever an exclusive, limited-time Dubai Hot Fudge Sundae, inspired by the sensational chocolate bar filled with pistachio paste and crunchy kataifi (shredded phyllo dough).

Just for one day, and only while supply lasts, you can indulge in the decadent treat--Dubai Chocolate Sundae that replicates the global flavor sensation first created by Sarah Hamouda of Dubai-based Fix Dessert Chocolatier.

Ghirardelli’s Dubai Chocolate Sundae incorporates the rich flavors of Dubai chocolate bar into a sundae, served in a parfait glass, featuring layers of vanilla ice cream, handmade hot fudge, and a mixture of pistachio butter, white chocolate, and kataifi. A gold-leafed Ghirardelli Milk Chocolate Caramel SQUARE is added on top, along with whipped cream and caramel sauce.

“As a brand rooted in crafting unforgettable chocolate experiences, we are excited to bring this special creation to our flagship location in San Francisco,” says Lacey Zane, Vice President of Restaurant & Retail at Ghirardelli Chocolate Company. “The Dubai Chocolate Sundae is the best of Ghirardelli tradition, and a fresh take on the latest viral sensation.”

Since 1852, the San Francisco’s own Ghirardelli has been crafting bean-to-bar premium confections combining tradition with innovation. The company takes pride in producing chocolates with the highest quality ingredients, and remains one of the few large-scale U.S. chocolate companies that controls the entire manufacturing process. This approach, along with Ghirardelli's proprietary bean blend and unique methods of roasting and processing, ensures the highest quality products.

March 8 Dubai Chocolate Sundae Experience will unfold at 900 North Point St., F301, San Francisco, California. Following the San Francisco launch, the Dubai Chocolate Sundae Experience will premiere for one day only at Ghirardelli’s New York City location at the Empire State Building on March 22, 2025.

For more information visit https://www.ghirardelli.com/about-ghirardelli.

Extended through January 4! Thirty-Six Questions at Shotgun Players, or Peas and Carrots and Rhubarb

2024-11-29T17:46:00.003-08:00

by Emma Krasov

The world premiere of “Thirty-Six” at Shotgun Players at the Ashby Stage in Berkeley, California, presents an innovative format of a play, where two protagonists share a sparse, beautifully lit set with a narrator, who actually reads stage directions, and the story revolves around Tinder dating, longing for belonging, and choreographed intimacy that’s supposed to feel spontaneous and not necessarily forced.

According to a well-illustrated show program, the play, written by Leah Nanako Winkler, an award-winning Japanese-born American playwright currently living in New York City, and directed by Michelle Talgarow, a Kalmyk/Filipina theater artist and educator originally from Philadelphia, PA, is inspired by the Modern Love column article in a popular newspaper, for some reason nicknamed, “New York Pravda” among the peers of this Ukrainian-born American reviewer.

That inspirational article called, “The 36 Questions That Lead to Love,” has been based on Dr. Arthur Aron’s 1997 laboratory research, which led the said Dr. to a conclusion that “his 36 Questions study held the key to a practical methodology for creating closeness.” Thus, the spectators of the play are exposed to the peas and carrots, and rhubarb [oft-used words mouthed by stage actors when they need to pretend conversing] of the incessant questioning offered as a cure for disconnectedness of the two protagonists, David (Soren Santos, originally from Port Costa, CA) and Jenny (Lauren Andrei Garcia, originally from Vallejo, CA). Questions and answers, and TMI revelations provoked by the questions (and probably considered bold and daring, not trite and vulgar) are interspersed with Stage Directions read by nic feliciano (all lower case letters) originally from Manila, Philippines, and with a few touchless sex scenes (intimacy choreographer Natalie Greene, originally from Tucson, AZ) that bring to this reviewer’s mind the obviously unattainable master-class simulation by Meg Ryan in the timeless 1989 classic, “When Harry Met Sally.”

While the show explores the hot topic of finding a perfect partner via internet dating, obviously extremely important for so many lonely people today, the characters seem true to life for the most part, yet rather stereotypical New Yorkers—self-centered, miserable, pathetic, and yet self-aggrandizing, self-satisfied, considering their neurotic disposition almost a badge of honor, and demanding of others not only acceptance, but respect in the most insignificant of details.

It might resemble the feel-good stories of awkward yet sympathetic schmucks by Woody Allen, with the exception that being old school, the famous New York author possesses an understanding of measured and balanced narration. The Thirty-Six’s creator, to the contrary, seems to try hard to sound audacious by using as many physiological details as possible, and focusing on sexual acts and bodily fluids, but if this is an attempt at exuding sympathy for the characters, it falls flat due to a strong element of cringe throughout the entire play.

Looking for true love, David diligently brings up the 36 questions from the newspaper article, believing that some Dr., expert, authority (something outside his own understanding of things) would help him to figure out his new partner; and Jenny, healthily skeptical at first, ends up downloading these same questions, obviously persuaded that an outside authority is, indeed a better judge of her own love affair.

Maybe that reflects the real situation with the dating apps’ users, but at some point the viewer has to question the emerging couple’s relationship that develop in front of our eyes based on a shallow, artificial questionnaire, found in a daily, and suitable for an ice-breaking session in K-12 (maybe). Are the characters trying hard not to touch anything deeper? But no, that seems to be what they consider depth—a superficial Q&A, which at the end might not persuade the viewer that the characters of David and Jenny are somehow interesting.

Then again, all kinds of people should get together and celebrate their mutual attraction, and every single opinion about this well-directed and well-staged play should be considered just that—someone’s opinion!

The opening night viewers appreciated the minimalist stage set (scenic designer Randy Wong-Westbrooke, originally from Albany, CA), creative lighting that turns a row of overhead LED fixtures into full moon, fireworks, or red lanterns at a noodle shop (lighting designer Spense Matubang, originally from Sacramento, CA), sound design by Alexandria Fakayode (originally from Oakland, CA), and costume design by Madeline Berger (originally from Berkeley, CA) if not for Jenny’s character’s staticky miniskirt the actress had to pull down as discreetly as she could every time she stood up from her chair.

The show runs through January 4. More information at: https://www.shotgunplayers.org/Online/default.asp.

Press images

Best of the Alps: Courmayeur

2024-08-24T15:24:00.000-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

What to do at a ski resort in the heat of summer? This question might sound senseless to skiers and snowboarders. They’d say, not much! It might sound senseless to alpinists, mountain bikers, rock climbers, trekkers, and the paragliding enthusiasts. They’d say, plenty!

But what about the rest of us, regular folks, who love to travel, but shy away from adventure sports? Who prefer walking, sightseeing, and culinary explorations of our chosen destinations as our best vacation activities? Is there anything for us in Courmayeur, a historic Italian town, and a well-known ski resort at the foot of the majestic Mont Blanc (or rather Monte Bianco)? As we’ve recently discovered on a wonderful trip organized by the Best of the Alps association of the classic mountain resorts—indeed there is!

Best of the Alps unites and presents to the world 11 distinct mountainous communities in different European countries located in the Alps— Chamonix Mont-Blanc, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Courmayeur, Crans-Montana, Davos, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Kitzbühel, Lech Zürs am Arlberg, Megève, St. Anton am Arlberg and Seefeld.

The serene and beautiful Courmayeur is located in picturesque Aosta Valley (Valle d'Aosta) in northern Italy. Devoid of seasonal crowds, the pretty little town looks positively dreamy. The Mont Blanc mountain range, always gorgeous, always snow-covered and icily aloof, serves as a perfect backdrop to the flowering alpine meadows and fragrant conifer forests, far removed from all the troubles of the world down below.

Now I keep a firm belief that seen every morning, this picture of Mont Blanc is the best antidote for any life’s miseries…

From our room terrace in Hotel Berthod, we could see the perfect snowy peaks, and breathe the cleanest fresh air, before heading to breakfast made of fresh local produce, through a cozy lounge decorated with thematic murals, ornamental cow bells, and wooden handicrafts.

With only 25 rooms, Hotel Berthod, located in the heart of Courmayeur, provides access to its own spa with a sauna and mineral bath, and a walking proximity to all the sites, shops, and restaurants in town for its lucky guests.

Here, at the hotel lobby, we met with our charming guide—a native and a big enthusiast of this marvelous region—Maria Chiara, who works for Courmayeur Tourism.

With her, we visited the central square and the Alpine Museum “Duca degli Abruzzi”, opened in 1929 and recently renovated for the 150th anniversary of the Courmayeur Alpine Guide Society foundation, Societa delle Guide, the oldest in Italy. The museum meticulously preserves the long and heroic history of alpine guides—the true adventure knights without fear and beyond reproach. Historic photographs, guide uniforms, mountain climbing gear—and its evolution over time, plus a collection of rare crystals delivered from the icy slopes, are on display at the museum, including a remarkable statue of St. Mary, damaged by lightning on the summit of Dente del Gigante (Giant’s Tooth) rock, visible high above the town only in clear weather.

The most memorable and highly recommended activity in Courmayeur starts with the cable car SkyWay Monte Bianco opened in 2015 with two perfectly designed cabins going up and down to the Punta Helbronner station at 11,371 feet. These steady and spacious cabins are encased in scratch proof and fogging proof glass. They slowly rotate 360 degrees, so the imposing basalt rocks, terraced dark-green forests, light-green pastures, and tiny houses down below are visible from any place.

Delighted with the views on our ascend, I glanced around the cabin to see a reflection of my admiration on my fellow travelers’ faces, and noticed a young, athletic woman who clung to her boyfriend with her white-knuckled hands and her eyes closed. She buried her face in his puff jacket, and nervously tapped her foot counting seconds to the end of our journey.

Well, I thought to myself, should something happen, this silliness won’t help much, but at least she could’ve enjoyed the view…

In reality, the multi-layered cables, displayed (perhaps, specifically for the faint at heart) inside the cable car station in a comprehensive exhibition dedicated to this marvel of alpine transportation, were woven in the thickest and sturdiest strands of steel, and looked perfectly safe, ready to withstand any weather calamity.

There’s a wonderful space for a brief repose—the Infinity Mont Blanc Room inside the station. Seated on a bench there, visitors become surrounded by a masterful video projection of the inaccessible peaks and crevices of the mountain range, interspersed with the seasonal views of the valleys and alpine wildlife, and other marvelous nature shots.

At the super contemporary and glamorous Kartell Bistrot Panoramic at Punta Helbronner we enjoyed some hearty specials of meat-and-potato kind, and learned from our knowledgeable guide how to order coffee like real Italians. When I asked why she ordered normale while we asked for espresso, Maria Chiara explained that a dark and mighty shot of strong coffee known as espresso is normal for Italians, who consume it at least a few times throughout the morning, thus the name, which means, “normal.”

There’s a very special corner at the Kartell Bistrot, called Tavolo dell’Infinito, with a table and two chairs made of clear polycarbonates, set up upon a transparent floor and by a glass wall—squarely above the snowy abyss where barely visible ant-like files of alpinists make their way up the majestic mountain.

Monte Bianco is visible from here in all its 15,777 feet glory. When putting on our winter hats and jackets for a brief excursion outside, where we could take photos and hold a little real snow in our hands, we passed a special exit, intended only for fully equipped mountaineers, that was framed with multiple warning signs and prohibitive wording. Obviously, no one besides those rugged-looking bearded men with ruddy faces and loads of gear could step outside this particular door to the white wilderness… except the station’s cleaning lady who just stepped out for a smoke without any safety net, mop in hand!

During our short stay, Maria Chiara, who never missed a chance to share her love and pride of this heavenly land, took us on educational tours to the surrounding Courmayeur ancient villages of Entreves, La Saxe, and Dolonne where medieval stone houses under slate roofs were spiked with multiple snow brackets to prevent damage from avalanches, and to the lush green valleys that wing out from the town in opposite directions—Val Ferret and Val Veny.

We visited Golf Club Courmayeur et Grandes Jorasses, founded in 1935 amid the prettiest in the whole world snowy peaks, green lawns, and streaming waterfalls, and even swung an iron in view of the fantastic, never losing their appeal mountains.

At the goat farm, Societa Agricola Mont Blanc, managed by two women—Fiorella Milliery and her daughter Valeria, we admired the shiny coats and curious muzzles of more than a hundred well-kept goats of the dark amber-colored capra camosciata alpina breed, and tasted the most delicious goat cheeses in various degrees of ripeness.

As for the culinary delights of the tiny Courmayeur, they appeared to be disproportionally abundant! Based in the alpine traditional cuisine with the prevalence of meats and cheeses, local specialties impressed us with their freshness and truly gourmet qualities along with seeming simplicity of preparation.

At Cadran Solaire we enjoyed a bountiful lunch of house-cured copa, bresaola and lardon served with the house-baked bread; a subtle yet irresistibly delicious house-made yogurt dessert, and dry white wine Rayon, made by Cave Mont Blanc right here, in Valle d'Aosta; at La Padella Pizzeria—a light and floral red Château Feuillet, also from Valle d'Aosta, alongside a hearty Salade Montagnard and Capricciosa pizza with ham, artichoke, mozzarella, mushrooms and olives. Ristorante Aria served us barbaresco wine with local beef and suckling pig in pinot noir sauce, followed by a dessert of puff pastry with whipped cream and mountain berries, while a stylish, contemporary 4810 food&fun (the numbers in its name correspond to the height of Monte Bianco in meters) provided us with even more local wine, paired with the freshest Burratina di bufala con ratatouille de verdure and Tagliatelle classiche al ragù bolonese, and a sweet finale of house-made Stracciatella ice cream with dark chocolate bits.

We spent some great dinner time at a boisterous, popular with the locals Ristorante La Terrazza consuming traditional specialties, like Zuppa Valpellinentze (baked soup with bread, cabbage, and fontina cheese); our now-favorite cured meats and cheeses, and a blueberry cake on a plate, adorned with a restaurant logo made of powdered sugar. After a day of exploring the emerald Val Ferret, we had a quiet lunch at the Ristorante La Clotze with a plate of pappardelle with venison ragù and a glass of a special herbal liqueur Génépi, inherited by this land from its Duchy of Savoy historical past, and made from alpine herbs, like Artemisia génépi a.k.a. wormwood.

Since that time, we inevitably ordered génépi at an open-air Goù Courmayeur that became our favorite stop in town for now indisputably favorite caffè normale and aperitivo.

Additional information:

Best of the Alps: https://www.bestofthealps.com/en/

Courmayeur Tourism: https://www.courmayeurmontblanc.it/en/

Hotel Berthod: https://www.hotelberthod.com/

EXPLORA I Visits San Francisco on Her Inaugural Journey Along the West Coast

2024-04-17T18:56:00.000-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

Explora Journeys is a brand new cruise line, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. It’s a family-owned business with an ambitious plan to build more yacht-style ships, all called EXPLORA, and numbered from I (one) to VI (six) through the year 2028.

The gorgeous EXPLORA I, a 63,900 ton 14-decker of 813 feet length and 184 feet height towered above San Francisco’s Pier 27 last weekend, attracting everyone’s attention with its sheer size and magnificence.

And yet, on a media tour inside the ship we could see for ourselves that the luxurious, elegant, and artfully decorated hotel-at-sea felt cozy, warm and hospitable, true to its signature greeting, “Welcome home!”

461 ocean-front suites with glass walls and 24/7 ocean views include 371 Ocean Suites, 67 Ocean Penthouses, 22 Ocean Residences, and the Owner’s Residence—all spacious, new, beautiful, sparkling-clean, and welcoming.

With six upscale restaurants, 12 bars and lounges, heated outdoor pools, whirlpools, an indoor pool with a retractable glass roof, spa and other wellness and fitness facilities, plus entertainment lounges and luxury shops, EXPLORA I provides plenty to see and do onboard and never get bored while traveling to multiple exciting destinations on the planned itineraries.

Add to it the company’s commitment to sustainability with Explora Journeys utilizing progressive technologies and innovations, respecting the planet and local communities on its many routes, and being conscientious of the environment, and there’s hardly a reason not to embark on the exploration journey with EXPLORA! This reporter can’t see any…

Find out more and make a reservation at https://explorajourneys.com/.

Introducing: Szimonetta Tőzsér, Business Coach

2024-03-20T19:29:00.000-07:00

By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov

When obstacles and challenges slow us down on the road to achieving our professional goals, when our full potential isn’t being realized, when we feel that our stress levels are rising, but the environment in which we work and struggle isn’t improving, we look around in search of an experienced and understanding mentor, a cool and collected person who could provide wisdom and support. We are looking for someone other than ourselves, who is capable of fully grasping our problems and helping us solve them.

Lucky we, if we have an older colleague, a spouse, a sibling, or a trusty and devoted friend, who would listen and understand, sympathize and commiserate, and maybe even suggest a course of actions. However, even the most dedicated friend or relative can’t be our guide and coach, not because of the lack of trying, but simply due to the very nature of our relations—we are connected to our loved ones in such a way that more often than not objective evaluation of our situation just isn’t possible to achieve. Without objectivity, though, all our efforts to improve might be in vain.

That’s when a business coach comes to the rescue. A trained professional, not closely related to us, but equipped with techniques and methods capable of bringing clarity to our minds, putting things in perspective, and guiding us toward achieving our goals, maximizing our potential, and improving our work life and career.

A business coach works with us to identify and define our goals and ways to achieve them, be it a new business, career change, professional or personal growth, or important decision making. When our objectives become specific and clearly outlined, it’s much easier to create action plans to reach them. It’s perfectly normal to feel confused and even completely lost in the throes of unexpected changes, life-altering events, or professional setbacks, but from a highly-skilled coach we get the entire toolbox needed for addressing these mental states. A coach will hold us accountable for taking the necessary steps towards our goals; will provide encouragement and motivation to help us stay focused and committed to our objectives, even when faced with our own weaknesses and indecisiveness.

With the help of questionnaires and exercises, a coach will help us gain a deeper understanding of ourselves, our values and strengths, and through self-reflection and introspection, will enable us to make informed decisions about our next steps.

Szimonetta Tőzsér of MSE Coaching, based in Iceland, is one such coach. She is a professional who offers “Business coaching for managers, entrepreneurs, career builders, organizations and owners” on her website, https://msebusinesscoaching.com/.

In her coaching career, Szimonetta worked with individuals from large companies, like Exxon and Expedia as well as with owners and employees of small businesses and various organizations. In her vigorous yet very sympathetic and empathic coaching, Szimonetta invites her clients to “embark on a transformative journey together, guided by the principles and ethics of the International Coaching Federation (ICF).”

To provide maximally efficient assistance with lasting results, she follows a strict path of the client’s self-discovery and self-achievement. “As a certified Business Coach, I adhere to the fundamental belief that each individual possesses the innate ability to uncover their own solutions and chart a course towards fulfillment and success,” says Szimonetta. “Through our collaborative sessions, clients discover the power within themselves to overcome obstacles, pursue their aspirations, and cultivate meaningful change in both their professional and personal lives.”

She takes pride in “witnessing clients undergo profound shifts in mindset and behavior, ultimately leading to the resolution of pressing issues and the achievement of their goals.” She never positions herself as an advisor or problem-solver. “I serve as a catalyst for self-discovery and empowerment,” she says.

One of Szimonetta’s clients, Erla Björg Eyjólfsdóttir, a Public Relations Consultant at Cohn & Wolfe Íslandi (Public Relations and Communications Services) has these words to say about her sessions with the coach:

“I recently had the pleasure of participating in a coaching session with Szímonetta. I must say, it was an incredibly enlightening and empowering experience. From the moment our session began, it was evident that Szímonetta possesses a remarkable depth of knowledge and expertise in coaching. Her approach was not only professional but also deeply empathetic and supportive. She created a safe space where I felt comfortable opening and exploring various aspects of my life and goals… Szímonetta not only imparted invaluable coaching techniques but also instilled in me a newfound belief in my abilities. Her guidance and unwavering support created a space for self-reflection and growth, enabling me to recognize and capitalize on my strengths. As a result, I've seen tangible improvements in my work, from crafting compelling pitches to confidently engaging with stakeholders. The coaching sessions have been profound, shaping not only my professional skills but also my overall mindset and approach to my role… Her professionalism, empathy, and expertise truly exemplify the caliber of an exceptional coach. I wholeheartedly recommend Szímonetta as a coach to anyone seeking to enhance their skills and confidence in the field of anyone’s professional domain. Her dedication, expertise, and genuine commitment to her clients' growth make her an exceptional coach.”

Apart from this glowing recommendation, MSE Coaching website provides plenty of information about Szimonetta’s business practices, plus valuable insights into her abilities and coaching methods. Best expressed in her own words: “Together, we delve into topics such as time management, communication skills, career advancement, and personal growth, crafting tailored strategies to propel [you] towards the envisioned future,” the help is near—just visit the site for more information and a coaching session reservation: https://msebusinesscoaching.com/.