tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14856067483661808022020-02-28T14:51:42.879-08:00Food Recipes, Local Restaurants | www.funfeasts.comFunfeasts is all about food and fun. Favorite recipes and restaurants plus anything culinary along life's path. Happy to share in the memories made with friends and family at the dinner table!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger190125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-52896552150819004832018-06-29T20:38:00.004-07:002018-06-29T20:44:50.350-07:00Gorgeous Gorge Views<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">From a recent trip to Washington State.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vsM2EsAmef0/Wzb7Dn2qTpI/AAAAAAAACmM/Q6oQWa3ah5Md6aH_tNzYWCs8Ke2rgivxgCLcBGAs/s1600/Quincy%2BWA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1028" data-original-width="1600" height="205" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vsM2EsAmef0/Wzb7Dn2qTpI/AAAAAAAACmM/Q6oQWa3ah5Md6aH_tNzYWCs8Ke2rgivxgCLcBGAs/s320/Quincy%2BWA.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From Quincy WA</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: center;">We stayed at an <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/4559547">Airbnb, hosted by Bob</a>, that boasted this bucolic view </div><div style="text-align: center;">out back. If headed to a <a href="http://www.georgeamphitheatre.com/">concert</a> in the area, consider staying here with friends</div><div style="text-align: center;">and family!</div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cbz6HONxD5o/Wzb7EoU0cwI/AAAAAAAACmQ/CR7GA_yCmUEqDTez4aeGaALDikAMX_FJwCLcBGAs/s1600/The%2BGorge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1054" data-original-width="1600" height="210" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cbz6HONxD5o/Wzb7EoU0cwI/AAAAAAAACmQ/CR7GA_yCmUEqDTez4aeGaALDikAMX_FJwCLcBGAs/s320/The%2BGorge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from Tendrils, Cave B Winery</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">For brunch, Tendrils at <a href="https://caveb.com/">Cave B Winery</a> offers a nice spread of food and </div><div style="text-align: center;">this view. <br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-55699308914777869962018-06-29T20:36:00.002-07:002018-06-29T20:36:37.381-07:00Crust, tasty homemade sourdough<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Straight from the oven and ready for a little butter!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t5j5pBYyhMc/Wzb6gv2LauI/AAAAAAAACmE/kqSTJCEQDnA1EXHkSbFXeE1YbDxpvzqKACLcBGAs/s1600/Bread.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t5j5pBYyhMc/Wzb6gv2LauI/AAAAAAAACmE/kqSTJCEQDnA1EXHkSbFXeE1YbDxpvzqKACLcBGAs/s320/Bread.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-72831691814558399252018-06-22T11:13:00.000-07:002018-06-22T11:13:10.589-07:00Starbucks Reserve In the Name of Coffee & CroissantsIt's no secret, I am a hard core coffee connoisseur and also a fan of Starbucks anything. A recent visit to the new trendy <a href="https://www.starbucksreserve.com/roasteries/seattle/">Starbucks Reserve Roastery</a> on Capitol Hill (Seattle) served up my quintessential favorites: coffee, croissants and cool vibe.<br /><br />We have a Reserve near where I live in California, but I'm not yet convinced it can rival the essence of Capitol Hill. But if I'm craving a caffeine buzz, I could be convinced!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ClM4TXDJGv4/Wy08C0gQB9I/AAAAAAAAClo/vnKAY2rRvosgpTZduj9vBYfNWmqM-WB1gCLcBGAs/s1600/Starbucks%2BReserve%2BCounter.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ClM4TXDJGv4/Wy08C0gQB9I/AAAAAAAAClo/vnKAY2rRvosgpTZduj9vBYfNWmqM-WB1gCLcBGAs/s320/Starbucks%2BReserve%2BCounter.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HifeRzTBvcw/Wy08FOBaTMI/AAAAAAAACls/ndqIoIg-GzscXUaQoUqjSng01yvELsijQCLcBGAs/s1600/Starbucks%2BReserve%2BCroissants.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HifeRzTBvcw/Wy08FOBaTMI/AAAAAAAACls/ndqIoIg-GzscXUaQoUqjSng01yvELsijQCLcBGAs/s320/Starbucks%2BReserve%2BCroissants.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-23753479795532258082018-06-12T20:55:00.000-07:002018-06-12T20:58:55.656-07:00Summer fruit signals the heat is ON!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RXvVS84WmPI/WyCVOEcCWzI/AAAAAAAAClY/kY8iH-vuol8Nkcfwdo8amq9pTZ1R2zgLACLcBGAs/s1600/Summer%2BTart.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RXvVS84WmPI/WyCVOEcCWzI/AAAAAAAAClY/kY8iH-vuol8Nkcfwdo8amq9pTZ1R2zgLACLcBGAs/s320/Summer%2BTart.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><h2 style="clear: both;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e69138; font-size: large;">You know it's summer when...</span></h2><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><ul><li>Peaches and nectarines pop up everywhere</li><li>You feel a need to fire up the grill...just because</li><li>It's 9pm and you're still outside (and it's light!)</li></ul></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-48994940214985244942016-07-06T09:42:00.001-07:002016-07-06T09:45:10.415-07:00Cool in Camas: Beacon Rock & Thunder Island Brewing Co.<div>I have made the trip from the Bay Area to the Pacific Northwest more times than I can count and it's always been the same: hit the road early, stop at the <a href="http://www.funfeasts.com/2009/08/for-serious-olive-lovers-olive-pit.html">Olive Pit</a> (a family favorite) and drive all the way to <a href="http://www.funfeasts.com/2014/04/glos-diner-in-seattle-capitol-hill.html">Seattle</a> in one long stretch.</div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ajOnciTZMm8/V3yf6fJwwSI/AAAAAAAACjw/c9skMy60LEYkpIGTqWmi2eAMytBxN1fGACLcB/s1600/Shasta%2B070316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ajOnciTZMm8/V3yf6fJwwSI/AAAAAAAACjw/c9skMy60LEYkpIGTqWmi2eAMytBxN1fGACLcB/s320/Shasta%2B070316.jpg" width="319" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shasta </td></tr></tbody></table>This year I changed things up and stopped to meet a good friend in Camas, a town dubbed <a href="http://www.bestplaces.net/city/washington/camas">"Best Place to Live</a>" by some and a well-kept secret that's not so secret when you see all the development buzzing around. Either way, my experience hit all the high notes: awe-inspiring hike, food combined with truly local, fresh ingredients and soul-filling relaxation due to the mellow vibe that's all Pacific Northwest. It's like a spa at it's best: expansive, nurturing and sporty...but without the barrier of entry fees (except for the state parks).<br /><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">A few notables if you venture to Camas with friends or family:</span></div><div><ul><li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://parks.state.wa.us/474/Beacon-Rock">Beacon Rock</a> Trail. Stunning and a must-see. About an hour, steep in some places.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://thunderislandbrewing.com/">Thunder Island Brewing Co</a>. You can sit by the Columbia River and nosh on fine fare.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://threesixtykitchen.com/">360 Kitchen & Bar </a> A pleasant surprise with gourmet-chef worthy dining.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.burgerville.com/">Burgerville</a>. <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 16.12px;">518 NE 3rd Ave, Camas, WA 98607. Seasonal menu addition: Walla Walla onion rings. Wow.</span></span><div class="_tN mod" data-md="1006" data-ved="0ahUKEwjxkYOTk97NAhUD82MKHbg-AOMQkCkIEygEMAQ" style="background-color: white; clear: none; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.12px;"><div class="_eFb"></div></div></li></ul><div>Every once in a while a detour becomes a huge blessing and in my case, a pretty mind-blowing one at that. It's time to move on but the view from Beacon Rock is indelibly etched into my memory and a "greatest hit" from the Summer Roadtrip of 2016.</div><div><br /></div></div><div><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.12px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sKWknPyCSWw/V3yhuwjSdRI/AAAAAAAACj8/mga14ujA7RUvDF6av2oSgYrf_qpSQtz_wCLcB/s1600/360Kitchen_Camas_bucatini%2BFunfeasts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sKWknPyCSWw/V3yhuwjSdRI/AAAAAAAACj8/mga14ujA7RUvDF6av2oSgYrf_qpSQtz_wCLcB/s400/360Kitchen_Camas_bucatini%2BFunfeasts.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bucatini carbonara at 360 Kitchen & Bar, Camas WA</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3BQgWs6_je4/V3yhx0QeaLI/AAAAAAAACkA/r0yn0BCEDPI9zN6wK7fyMUSZTM5lA3-RQCLcB/s1600/BeaconRock_Jul%2B2016%2BFunfeasts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3BQgWs6_je4/V3yhx0QeaLI/AAAAAAAACkA/r0yn0BCEDPI9zN6wK7fyMUSZTM5lA3-RQCLcB/s640/BeaconRock_Jul%2B2016%2BFunfeasts.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taken from Beacon Rock Trail, Stevenson WA</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-47138469148974022432016-02-18T09:49:00.000-08:002016-02-18T09:49:02.183-08:00Dumpling House in Arcadia CAOn our road trip from San Diego to San Francisco we stopped in Arcadia to see a relative. We planned to have dumplings at Din Tai Fung but the 2 hour wait wasn't on our bucket list that day.<br /><br />Instead we drove down the street and made a stop at the Dumpling House which was a surprise and a big delight. Soup dumplings, spicy eggplant and fried rice all were heartily consumed and enjoyed.<br /><br />Although I have few reasons to be in Arcadia, this place is on my list in case of a chance encounter!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.dumplinghousearcadia.com/">Dumpling House</a><br />921 S Baldwin Ave, Ste A<br />Arcadia CA 91007<br />626.445.2755<br /><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-77233219607097025672016-02-16T09:03:00.000-08:002019-12-26T11:38:17.950-08:00Glen Ellen Star and Lou's Luncheonette<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Fremont Diner is now closed, and replaced by <a href="https://lousluncheonette.com/">Lou's Luncheonette</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Napa and Sonoma are synonymous with great wine and spirits but the dining scene is a star player in</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">my book. Below are a few new standouts from my recent visit, each on a slightly different spectrum.</div><br />On the casual side is the Fremont Diner [now Lou's Luncheonette] a good choice as you make your way up to your favorite winery. Situated off Highway 12, this diner offers visitors covered outdoor seating (allows dogs!) or the more traditional diner setting. Either selection at the prime eating hour (lunch?) will likely require a wait, especially if it's nice and sunny out.<br /><br /><b>Dec 26, 2019 update: </b> it appears the Fremont Diner has been shuttered and replaced by Lou's Luncheonette. While I've yet to visit the people—and dishes—seem to carry on the legacy of the diner. Which is why I've left this post for posterity (and, it IS the end of the year!)<br /><br /><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="https://lousluncheonette.com/"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"></span>Lou's Luncheonette</a></span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; cursor: pointer; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 14.6545px;">2698 Fremont Drive</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; cursor: pointer; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 14.6545px;">Sonoma, CA 95476</span><br /><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; cursor: pointer; line-height: 14.6545px;">(707) 938-7370</span></span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SyNL7GsX5oA/VsA4t04-PZI/AAAAAAAAChg/fOHlVoWAeV0/s1600/Fremont%2BDiner%2BBiscuits.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SyNL7GsX5oA/VsA4t04-PZI/AAAAAAAAChg/fOHlVoWAeV0/s320/Fremont%2BDiner%2BBiscuits.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fried chicken in a biscuit at Fremont Diner. Can life get any better than this?</td></tr></tbody></table>Another standout located in Glen Ellen is the Glen Ellen Star. Our selections included the mixed salad with 8 minute egg (perfectly cooked with a still runny center) margharita pizza and flat iron steak. We ended the meal with homemade ice cream (butter pecan) and a short drive home.<br /><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OQsbzlrPsSs/VsA2dp06qYI/AAAAAAAAChQ/Q8FfToD6ikg/s1600/GlenEllen%2Bsalad.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OQsbzlrPsSs/VsA2dp06qYI/AAAAAAAAChQ/Q8FfToD6ikg/s320/GlenEllen%2Bsalad.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glen Ellen Star Salad with "8 minute" egg</td></tr></tbody></table>Glen Ellen Star<br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 14.6545px;">13648 Arnold Drive</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 14.6545px;">Glen Ellen, CA 95442</span><br /><a class="fl r-iYOj98dwMK3Q" data-number="+17073431384" data-rtid="iYOj98dwMK3Q" data-ved="0ahUKEwjfj5XU5_bKAhXG1CYKHTDpA4UQkAgInAEwEA" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" jsaction="r.oVdbr2mIpA8" jsl="$t t-CuUqPxWI7dk;$x 0;" style="background-color: white; color: #1a0dab; cursor: pointer; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 14.6545px;" title="Call via Hangouts">(707) 343-1384</a><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-4552691743158665862016-02-15T09:39:00.000-08:002016-02-15T10:46:37.064-08:00Lola's Bistro in Cheese Country - Hilmar<br />Hilmar is my kind of town: located in the heart of foodland and boasting a sign that reads "Did you bring your cheese?" as you enter. A town after my own heart!<br /><br />On a short visit to pick up some milk to make--what else--cheese, my pass-through allowed for two stops, lunch at <a href="http://www.lolabistroexpress.com/">Lola's Bistro</a> and a few cheese samples at <a href="http://www.hilmarcheese.com/Home/">Hilmar Cheese</a>. <br /><br />Although we showed up after the lunch hour (right as they were closing) the folks at Lola's opened the doors and served us! Amazing. We had a great meal of fish and chips, broccoli cheddar soup and a well-cooked burger. The food was great but it was really the passion from the people and the laid-back setting that put this over-the-top. <br /><br />Thanks to the amazing staff!<br /><br /><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.lolabistroexpress.com/">Lola's Bistro</a> </span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 1.24;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">19920 1st Street</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 1.24;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Hilmar, CA 95324</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 1.24;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 1.24;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.hilmarcheese.com/Home/">Hilmar Cheese</a> </span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 1.24;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">9001 Lander Avenue</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 1.24;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Hilmar CA 95324</span></span><br /><ol data-ved="0ahUKEwjW8ouv3vfKAhWE7SYKHfuHBSkQ_xcIcQ" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 14.6545px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div class="mod" data-md="1006" data-ved="0ahUKEwjW8ouv3vfKAhWE7SYKHfuHBSkQkCkIhQEoBTAT" style="clear: none; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.24; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 15px;"><div class="_eFb"></div></div></ol>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-52218737946334269892016-02-15T09:00:00.000-08:002016-02-15T10:46:59.089-08:00Chic Cantonese at Hakkasan SFFrom start to finish my recent lunch at Hakkasan was a delightful experience. The chic setting, the menu and finishing touch (macarons) made for a memorable moment especially when combined with a favorite friend.<br /><br />If you find yourself on Market street in San Francisco it's worth a visit. Below are a few photos which tell the story of my lunch and the beauty of the presentation.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZSaleF6iBAw/Vr5w8YmCuiI/AAAAAAAACg4/O3-78NcRTZQ/s1600/Hakkasan%2Bdumplings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZSaleF6iBAw/Vr5w8YmCuiI/AAAAAAAACg4/O3-78NcRTZQ/s320/Hakkasan%2Bdumplings.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A small starter of my favorite dumplings.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rL1dW_teg2Q/Vr5w5tD-vLI/AAAAAAAACgw/v2zSEcwT9Iw/s1600/Hakkasan%2Bbeef%2Bdish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rL1dW_teg2Q/Vr5w5tD-vLI/AAAAAAAACgw/v2zSEcwT9Iw/s320/Hakkasan%2Bbeef%2Bdish.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Followed up with savory beef in a crispy noodle funnel.</td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KfjyCLb8p90/Vr5w6NP-T8I/AAAAAAAACg0/Wrz3qxe8xUc/s1600/Hakkasan%2Bmacarons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KfjyCLb8p90/Vr5w6NP-T8I/AAAAAAAACg0/Wrz3qxe8xUc/s320/Hakkasan%2Bmacarons.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Capped by the perfect dessert: macarons in many flavors!</td></tr></tbody></table>Hakkasan<br /><div>1 Kearny Street</div><div>San Francisco CA 94108</div><div>415.829.8148</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-31007572212779689042016-02-14T11:00:00.000-08:002016-02-15T10:35:59.473-08:00Happy Heart Day From Sonoma CA<div class="MsoNormal">Right now I’m sitting in one of the most beautiful places overlooking a sunset while dressed in jeans and t-shirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did I mention it’s February and I’m in Sonoma CA?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ok, so I am one lucky person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if you think I’m partaking in “humble bragging” (it’s actually a term!) the sentiment is humbly sincere with no bragging intended.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">My appreciation for this moment is due somewhat in part to the obstacle course of life throughout 2015. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When my frustration reached a fever pitch and I complained someone said “the universe is telling you something” and I believe I mentally rolled my eyes. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it’s true, the message-while on the opposite ends of the spectrum-came through loud and clear:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Slow down to appreciate the people and things around me but…<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">“Stuff happens” so look forward and move on (faster)…</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:DocumentProperties> <o:Revision>0</o:Revision> <o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:Pages>1</o:Pages> 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mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <!--EndFragment--><br /><div class="MsoNormal">While this post is too late to be my new years resolution <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">and</b> too early to forecast total bliss in 2016, it’s enough to enjoy the setting sun and be grateful for what’s to come.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-78801095223652888392015-09-25T23:07:00.000-07:002015-09-25T23:11:35.514-07:00The Tasting Menu at Michel-Schlumberger, Healdsburg<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It doesn't get much better than this: a tasting menu perfectly prepared and paired with some delectable wines at Michel-Schlumberger in Healdsburg CA.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The only complaint? I can't stop dreaming about that burger!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SMKIo5_okBg/VgY0-6QKQ5I/AAAAAAAACgU/sMcB577L2ZU/s1600/Michel%2BSchlumberger%2BTasting%2BMenu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SMKIo5_okBg/VgY0-6QKQ5I/AAAAAAAACgU/sMcB577L2ZU/s400/Michel%2BSchlumberger%2BTasting%2BMenu.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watermelon salad with a hint of mint on the left.<br />Burger in the middle (need I say more?)<br /><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Berries on the right were the bomb - and topped with coconut cream!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fhNY2hKyt7c/VgY1RRtbLzI/AAAAAAAACgc/iRkFi1qkBeA/s1600/Michel%2BSchlumberger%2BTasting%2BMenu%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fhNY2hKyt7c/VgY1RRtbLzI/AAAAAAAACgc/iRkFi1qkBeA/s640/Michel%2BSchlumberger%2BTasting%2BMenu%2B2.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The very awesome tasting menu which is much better in person, of course.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">While in Healdsburg, make a reservation and stop by!</div><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-74801327101716997962015-09-25T22:47:00.001-07:002015-09-25T23:13:41.233-07:00Bowled Over by Ramen at Himawari, San Mateo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-weUkbn98Cj4/VgYxi-ltHCI/AAAAAAAACgI/TdOjoadtUPM/s1600/20150920_194825.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-weUkbn98Cj4/VgYxi-ltHCI/AAAAAAAACgI/TdOjoadtUPM/s640/20150920_194825.jpg" /> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What's not to like about Himawari in San Mateo? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This place has a fun, hip vibe with retro records on the walls and a bustling waitstaff to move your order along. The order in my case: a bowl of the Deluxe Ramen with pork, an egg and lots of corn.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The perfect mix of rich pork, salty broth and crisp corn helped me get to the bottom of the bowl. The reasonable price point (dinner for two under $30) will help remind me to come back soon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Himawari</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">202 E. 2nd Ave</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">San Mateo CA 94401</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">650.375.1005</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-23362215994107397642015-09-16T20:08:00.003-07:002015-09-19T22:04:29.499-07:00Eat Ethiopian at Cafe Colucci - Oakland CALooking for a new food experience with lots of flavor and the fun of eating with your hands? Check out the popular <a href="http://www.cafecolucci.com/">Cafe Colucci</a> in Oakland CA but take lots of friends because this experience is as tasty as it is social.<br /><br />We ordered a few meat and a vegetarian combos but could have gotten by with just one of each. Our table of six was overloaded with food - no complaints from this eater - but we took a lot home!<br /><br />For me this is a favorite experience because of the food, the scent of exotic spices in the air and the social vibe caused by the shared dishes. Overall, everything is fantastic, even the casual, relaxed ambiance. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GcNw2AYOUsA/Vfn-uuROFwI/AAAAAAAACdc/iNJrRZU9Vi0/s1600/Cafe%2BColucci.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GcNw2AYOUsA/Vfn-uuROFwI/AAAAAAAACdc/iNJrRZU9Vi0/s400/Cafe%2BColucci.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The meat combo at Cafe Colucci in Berkeley CA</td></tr></tbody></table>Cafe Colucci<br />6427 Telegraph Ave<br />Oakland CA 94609<br />510.601.7999Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-44930564616389731342015-09-16T19:59:00.001-07:002015-09-16T19:59:21.427-07:00Wishbone in Petaluma and Wine Tasting in HealdsburgIt's hard to top a day in the Wine Country, especially when your destination is the ever-charming and laid-back Healdsburg. Add in the warmth of a summer day, your favorite friends and voila! - the perfect mix and the best setting you can imagine.<br /><br />As a starting point, we dropped by <a href="http://www.wishbonepetaluma.com/the-house.html">Wishbone </a>in Petaluma for breakfast. Of course this wasn't just any breakfast with options like the farmers board (pictured below) the Queso-zilla (sooo tempted to order) and the not-so-standard items like eggs benedict. The farmers board entailed fresh ricotta, an egg, toast and a homemade piquant tapenade. Trying to pace myself seemed silly so I abandoned any such thoughts and then cleaned the board. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3sLiLiyKs5c/VfoA0aiNj1I/AAAAAAAACds/6eiGmuntHlg/s1600/Wishbone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3sLiLiyKs5c/VfoA0aiNj1I/AAAAAAAACds/6eiGmuntHlg/s400/Wishbone.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Farmers Board at Wishbone in Petaluma</td></tr></tbody></table>We lazily made our way to <a href="http://www.merryedwards.com/">Merry Edwards</a> where the wine's namesake made history as the first female winemaker in California. Next stop: Kokomo in Healdsburg where we sampled a variety of reds and whites - all pretty amazing (I'm a fan) and then the olive oil at <a href="http://trattorefarms.com/">Dry Creek Olive Oil</a> next door. <br /><br />Our best and final stop of the day was <a href="http://michelschlumberger.com/">Michel-Schlumberger</a> tucked away off Wine Creek Road (how fitting!) Originally an organic winery, this is and always has been one of my favorites with its beautiful setting, fine wine and friendly personnel (that's you Quinn!) In addition to the wine and ambiance, they now serve food that's on par with the wine. I have to give props to the chef and recommend a reservation in advance. Once word gets out there will be no space at this table!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2fM9mM9MFBk/VfoojymHSuI/AAAAAAAACek/iIRGAjEphvM/s1600/Michel%2BSchlumberger%2BHarvest%2BMenu.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2fM9mM9MFBk/VfoojymHSuI/AAAAAAAACek/iIRGAjEphvM/s400/Michel%2BSchlumberger%2BHarvest%2BMenu.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amazing menu and food at Schlumberger! </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iTiuy-hcUTo/VfoolXdSlhI/AAAAAAAACes/88DZOU12SIs/s1600/Michel%2BSchlumberger%2BCaprese.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iTiuy-hcUTo/VfoolXdSlhI/AAAAAAAACes/88DZOU12SIs/s400/Michel%2BSchlumberger%2BCaprese.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful heirloom tomatoes selected by the chef. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RbapYJgwE8c/VfoonSXSe9I/AAAAAAAACe0/lgziURrCIVM/s1600/Michel%2BSchlumberger%2BPesto%2BPasta.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RbapYJgwE8c/VfoonSXSe9I/AAAAAAAACe0/lgziURrCIVM/s400/Michel%2BSchlumberger%2BPesto%2BPasta.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summery, savory pesto pasta salad.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x8z1gc7Zro4/Vfn_GvymRKI/AAAAAAAACdk/XxJxD07bbjg/s1600/Michel%2BSchlumberger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x8z1gc7Zro4/Vfn_GvymRKI/AAAAAAAACdk/XxJxD07bbjg/s400/Michel%2BSchlumberger.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cheese and fruit platter(s) at Michel-Schlumberger.</td></tr></tbody></table>I feel like one lucky person to experience a day in the "country" with amazing food, my favorite friends and a setting like no other at Michel-Schlumberger. Cheers to the end of summer!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-91099297178437942202015-09-16T19:25:00.001-07:002015-09-16T19:25:03.697-07:00Umami Burger Palo Alto CA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have a new obsession with burgers and I blame the folks at <a href="https://www.umamiburger.com/locations/palo-alto/">Umami burger</a>. It's not enough to serve up truffle fries but a truffle burger too? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As a I was ordering truffle fries <b>and </b>truffle burger I pondered whether that was too much truffle. Noooo. It was perfect and the burger was cooked to perfection.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The only thing I didn't love was the setting amidst stacks of books and yes, I get it - we were near the University. For some reason I don't equate a library with yummy food. I guess if I really think about it the ambiance is quite the opposite of a library: noisy, organized chaos.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.umamiburger.com/locations/palo-alto/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pLMAYfC4kco/VfohSoqpd7I/AAAAAAAACeU/bJPhlH-HJ2M/s400/Umami%2Bburger.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious food amid the book stacks.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table>With a reasonably priced menu, we walked out at just under $20 per person with tip and tax. While a bit more in terms of cost than a bundled meal at In-N-Out, the experience and flavor made up for the difference in price. <div><br /></div><div>Finally, I almost forgot to mention the bevvy of sauces (ketchup, garlic and a few others) served alongside the burgers and fries. A small, but classy addition to the meal. </div><div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Umami Burger</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">452 University Ave</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Palo Alto CA 94301</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">650.321.8626</span></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-70878333857142248632015-09-16T18:50:00.002-07:002015-09-16T18:53:07.557-07:00SF Good Food Awards Volunteer Event <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A rare sight: rows of cheese lined up and ready to be tasted and scored. As a lucky volunteer I couldn't help but be amazed by the variety and quality at a recent Good Food Awards judging event. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dmK-5OqjmD4/VfoBW9DY5vI/AAAAAAAACd0/WNslkZSI1nk/s1600/Good%2BFood%2BAwards%2BEvent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dmK-5OqjmD4/VfoBW9DY5vI/AAAAAAAACd0/WNslkZSI1nk/s400/Good%2BFood%2BAwards%2BEvent.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These made the initial "cut" and were awaiting a secondary taste. </td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uz40F_-saNo/VfoBYtP7-BI/AAAAAAAACd8/4e7rzXLMCHI/s1600/Blue%2Bcheese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uz40F_-saNo/VfoBYtP7-BI/AAAAAAAACd8/4e7rzXLMCHI/s400/Blue%2Bcheese.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Always happy to see the "blues".</td></tr></tbody></table>I don't know who won the top prize and bragging rights but suffice it to say, I felt like a winner in the end. I tasted my share of delicious cheese and got to experience feeling truly foodie for a day. Amazing!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-91498574382907738372015-08-30T15:28:00.002-07:002015-08-30T15:46:30.483-07:00Straight From the Farm: Ossau-Iraty Sheep's Milk CheeseA year ago I had the luxury of a full month off work which meant the ability to chase down bucket list items at my own pace. One thing that made the cut: a trip to Patterson CA to gather sheep's milk for cheese. While not a typical summer activity for most, it was, for me, a magical time of discovery and a reminder of how precious summer months can be.<br /><br />While at the farm we found the sheep to be very inquisitive and really, really sweet. Once home and deep into making cheese I knew right away the quality would be impeccable. A few facts here: sheep milk has a higher percentage of fat (about twice as much as cow milk) but little effect on cholesterol due to <a href="http://www.sheep101.info/dairy.html">short-chain fatty acids</a>. In addition, sheep milk is highly nutritious, rich in vitamins A, B, and E, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium and easier to digest than cow milk. <br /><br />Of course, it's all about the cheese and the resulting Ossau-Iraty - a mild variety with a texture similar to Manchego - turned out to be superb in flavor and consistency.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b5qUM084LaU/VeN6RushcmI/AAAAAAAACc0/dipyvA1qSVw/s1600/Sheep%2BClose%2BUp%2BPM.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b5qUM084LaU/VeN6RushcmI/AAAAAAAACc0/dipyvA1qSVw/s320/Sheep%2BClose%2BUp%2BPM.jpg.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Plbr8ihCsVo/VeN6hjS8VRI/AAAAAAAACc8/Yr3xfnfXIEg/s1600/Sheep%2BTour_Lisa%2BSteph%2BSheep%2Bpm.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Plbr8ihCsVo/VeN6hjS8VRI/AAAAAAAACc8/Yr3xfnfXIEg/s320/Sheep%2BTour_Lisa%2BSteph%2BSheep%2Bpm.jpg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UKM67YrVScA/U-ubZDq2OgI/AAAAAAAACSw/1N4zHOO2Xho/s1600/Ossau-iraty_no%2Bframe%2Bpm.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UKM67YrVScA/U-ubZDq2OgI/AAAAAAAACSw/1N4zHOO2Xho/s1600/Ossau-iraty_no%2Bframe%2Bpm.jpg.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The big wheel - right out of the press. </td></tr></tbody></table><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HncY0pksgIg/VeN6FeBNWhI/AAAAAAAACcw/WbqNzwszo2k/s1600/Ossau%2BIraty%2BSheeps%2Bmilk%2Bcheese.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HncY0pksgIg/VeN6FeBNWhI/AAAAAAAACcw/WbqNzwszo2k/s320/Ossau%2BIraty%2BSheeps%2Bmilk%2Bcheese.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The final product after 6 months. </td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Funny how quickly life takes over and more recent memories become like aged photographs: still precious but fuzzy at the edges (and yes, how sentimental!) I'm holding on to the last wedge of Ossau-Iraty and the reminder of warm nights, long days and the sun-kissed memories of that amazing summer last year.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-6945067922420801802015-08-26T22:38:00.000-07:002015-08-26T22:38:19.885-07:00Amazing Aatxe, San FranciscoLocated on Market street in the Castro, this eatery has a name that's hard to spell and food that's hard to resist. And like any hot spot in San Francisco, reservations are precious and not easy to come by. Luckily for me I was able to tag along with a friend who snagged a table and the dishes - and ambiance - did not disappoint. <br /><br />My favorite, hands down was the halibut crudo with pimenton, peach and black olive oil. This dish represents the perfect blend of cool spice, fresh flavor and colorful artistry. I'd return to Aatxe for this alone.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rsX30FRi8r4/Vd0_Gm-MC5I/AAAAAAAACcU/ZNbjoGeAFjY/s1600/IMG_1230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rsX30FRi8r4/Vd0_Gm-MC5I/AAAAAAAACcU/ZNbjoGeAFjY/s320/IMG_1230.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halibut crudo with toasted pumpkin seeds, peaches & chilies. <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Of course we didn't stop at the crudo! Rounding out the lineup: rich smoked salmon deviled egg, chanterelle croqueta, tomato and cucumber salad, patatas brava and pork bocadillo (pork belly - yum). The food is clearly the star and the impressive cocktail list - with gin taking center stage - supports the entire cast. <br /><br />Currently one of the hottest new places, Aatxe is worth the effort and a <b>must</b> for any fine foodie. In the event you don't have the patience to wait or secure a reservation, try <a href="http://www.hechoinsf.com/">Hecho</a> which is located up the street. They serve a mean melted cheese appetizer that's simply divine. Either way you can't go wrong!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-20495439198859591882015-08-25T21:57:00.000-07:002015-08-29T16:53:05.531-07:00Pizza, Pasta at Pazzo in San Carlos<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6666666666667px; line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pazzo embodies that rare gem of a neighborhood restaurant: walk-in casual, good service, killer food. With a </span><a href="http://www.pazzosancarlos.com/menu.html" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6666666666667px; line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;">menu</a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6666666666667px; line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;"> of expertly crafted dishes rolling out of the kitchen it's no surprise a short wait is often the norm.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6666666666667px; line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-f0a7096f-60d3-e885-dc9c-a1bf8df6c336"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The wood-fired oven churns out a variety of pizzas with my standout favorite being the simple Margherita. You get the right balance of tangy sauce, luscious cheese and charred crust. It’s a nice menu item that goes well with the spicy rigatoni. </span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The rigatoni with housemade fennel sausage definitely kicks it up with a generous amount of chili flakes but is balanced out by the butter in the background. Another standout is the cavatelli with slow-braised pork which is both homey yet sophisticated in flavor. And don’t forget dessert: the ricotta cheesecake is delicate - but rich - and </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">just</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> sweet enough.</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With the popularity of Pazzo there’s often a wait these days for one of the tables. If time is short, there’s always Panda Dumpling next door (but a whole different atmosphere altogether).</span></div></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0IRlWukL9yE/VURJ_XMMvpI/AAAAAAAACaA/fr3RsAomSnM/s1600/Pazzo%2BPizza%2BPM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0IRlWukL9yE/VURJ_XMMvpI/AAAAAAAACaA/fr3RsAomSnM/s1600/Pazzo%2BPizza%2BPM.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pizza at Pazzo</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zyO24ENfcls/VURKDOyd-vI/AAAAAAAACaI/rLEcgGYr2Fc/s1600/Pazzo%2BCeasar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zyO24ENfcls/VURKDOyd-vI/AAAAAAAACaI/rLEcgGYr2Fc/s1600/Pazzo%2BCeasar.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caesar Salad</td></tr></tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="http://www.pazzosancarlos.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pazzo</span></a></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1179 Laurel Street</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">San Carlos CA 94070</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">650- 591-1075</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-74428568204843420302015-07-05T17:17:00.000-07:002015-07-06T23:01:58.960-07:00The Healing Goodness of Food<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Although it sounds superficial I’ve often said “I live to eat”, thinking of my next meal as more entertainment and less sustenance. A recent hiking accident and broken ankle turned my motto on its head with food deliveries from friends and neighbors becoming not only sustenance but part of the healing process.</span></div><b id="docs-internal-guid-c7e761cc-60a4-e0fd-14f1-caa6907d163c" style="font-weight: normal;"><br></b><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How do I say this? I consider myself a fairly empathetic person but I had no idea what you experience when you break a bone. I always thought it meant a cast that transitioned into a work of art over time. Wrong!</span></div><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br></b><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For starters, the duration of my “ordeal” I didn’t have a cast but a “boot". Really a fancy term for a bandaged leg in a clunky, chunky, uncomfortable velcroed creation. At least it beat the earlier wrapped version that was not only hot but unwieldy (and </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">not</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> shower-friendly). My memory of those first days is falling into everything: the hamper, the garbage can in the office, the flat floor (!). You name it. Everything was a mountain when trying to maneuver with that appendage. (Don’t even ask about the time I overslept for an important meeting and tried to “run fast”.)</span></div><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br></b><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Looking back on the past few months a few things stand out in memory:</span></div><ul style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The kindness of strangers. I was amazed by the number of doors opened and chairs given up for </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">me</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. (I’m not worthy!)</span></div></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The genuine concern from family and friends. It seemed like my world slowed to a halt for two months and yet those around me definitely hung on for the ride.</span></div></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Food from friends. Soup (tomato, Thai), chocolate cake, crab cakes and all manner of salads. But soup was key to climbing up and back out into health. </span></div></li></ul><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br></b><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The healing process is probably different for everyone. But if you have a friend or loved one </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6666666666667px; line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;">going through a surgery, sickness or extended illness, food is a welcomed gift. </span></div><br><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And to all my friends and family, there aren’t enough words to convey the gratitude I feel for turning words into action, and food into healing my body and mind. Suffice it to say I love - and feel loved - by you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-70185793615659881732015-05-02T15:04:00.002-07:002015-06-07T16:48:17.749-07:00Bits and Bites from the Corkscrew Cafe Monterey and Carmel are classic getaway spots here in the Bay Area and it's easy to see why. With views of the ocean peering out from between the many tourist spots you don't need to veer far from the basic footpath to enjoy your stay. But you <b>will</b> be rewarded if you take a detour and see what the<br />rest of Carmel Valley has to offer.<br /><br />For me, I love the area off West Carmel Valley Road with its less-hurried wineries, cafes and shops all tucked away in what feels like a secret hideaway. Some of my favorite afternoons have been spent lingering over a late lunch with the golden glow of summer sun peeking through the trees.<br /><br />Am I a bit of a romantic? Maybe, although being recently single may be prompting such a feeling. But truly, if you want a path-less-travelled feeling, do check it out.<br /><br /><a href="http://corkscrewcafe.com/">Corkscrew Cafe</a><br />55 West Carmel Valley Road<br />Carmel Valley CA 93921<br />831-659-8888<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6DOkOBzA5Ig/VUOXMIjgT1I/AAAAAAAACZg/SxAnkhqwggs/s1600/CorkscrewCafe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6DOkOBzA5Ig/VUOXMIjgT1I/AAAAAAAACZg/SxAnkhqwggs/s1600/CorkscrewCafe.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The goat cheese, garlic and bread sampler is beautiful to look at and wonderful to nibble on!</td></tr></tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-89594867197717445922015-05-02T14:49:00.004-07:002015-05-04T18:03:04.104-07:00More MarloweIt seems like destiny that my current (new) job is located almost directly across from my favorite restaurant, <a href="http://www.funfeasts.com/2010/10/marlowe-wows-in-san-francisco.html">Marlowe</a>. And with the close proximity you'd think I'd visit every day. But unfortunately it's a favorite of many and the long line out the door for lunch prohibits a lot of drop-in behavior on my part. Fortunately, when I do have a break and can scoot out it's across the street I go.<br /><br />Not only does Marlowe remain a favorite place for me but the mushroom soup has become a favorite dish. Who knew such simplicity (although I bet this is NOT simple to make) could be found in such a homey yet elegant dish?<br /><br />To make this a truly decedent meal, add on a side of fries and aoli. Oh, and don't take my spot in the lunch lineup!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i808zDYlKTs/VUOXj1-kbPI/AAAAAAAACZo/d20dIsJKtRE/s1600/Marlowesoup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i808zDYlKTs/VUOXj1-kbPI/AAAAAAAACZo/d20dIsJKtRE/s1600/Marlowesoup.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simple soup in fine form. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><a href="http://marlowesf.com/">Marlowe</a><br />500 Brannan Street<br />San Francisco CA 94107<br />415.777.1413Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-20293048171967590652015-05-02T14:39:00.001-07:002015-05-04T18:04:00.113-07:00Stoneburner in Seattle; brunch greatness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you spend much time on this blog you'll notice the many references to Seattle and breakfast/brunch. The two seem intertwined and something I always look forward to during trips back home. A recent trip over Easter weekend was no exception...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When touching down in Seattle I've taken to spending more and more time in Ballard, an area undergoing a revival on it's way to becoming industrial chic. The food - and restaurants - seem to be keeping pace. My recent favorite is Stoneburner which is a modern take on Italian food. And while the food is pretty stellar, like many locations in Ballard, it's the building, setting and aesthetic that do the trick.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Check out the bar when you're there (someone had a great eye for detail) and then dive into the food. Oh, and on Sundays the farmer's market is close and well-stocked with great vendors.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://stoneburnerseattle.com/">Stoneburner</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5214 Ballard Ave NW</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Seattle WA</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">206-695-2015</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PNeGhOvQbWU/VUVCA8ShZ8I/AAAAAAAACac/C8umzdvhciQ/s1600/stoneburnerpolenta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PNeGhOvQbWU/VUVCA8ShZ8I/AAAAAAAACac/C8umzdvhciQ/s1600/stoneburnerpolenta.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poached eggs and polenta. A truly great combination.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O6B_E3pqSQ8/VUVCBuUYtiI/AAAAAAAACak/UYxAd3PJdas/s1600/stoneburnerdutchbaby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O6B_E3pqSQ8/VUVCBuUYtiI/AAAAAAAACak/UYxAd3PJdas/s1600/stoneburnerdutchbaby.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dutch baby in cast iron.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LSauo0zjHSg/VUVCC_tEAlI/AAAAAAAACas/yQwWKQEIWWc/s1600/stoneburner%2Bmenu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LSauo0zjHSg/VUVCC_tEAlI/AAAAAAAACas/yQwWKQEIWWc/s1600/stoneburner%2Bmenu.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The capitvating menu at Stoneburner.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-61020576714623728302015-04-04T23:27:00.003-07:002015-05-04T18:04:35.596-07:00Santa Cruz Cuisine - Lillian's, Gayle'sA recent spate of sunny weather spurred a weekend stay in Santa Cruz and some time at the beach. With the sun setting we turned our focus to dinner and how best to answer the usual questions: "What should we eat?" and "Where should we go?"<br /><br />Turns out we didn't have to go far before we came across Lillian's, a family-style Italian restaurant where reservations are scarce, the atmosphere is cozy, the service is attentive and the food is simply killer. Don't miss the Sunday gravy and meatballs or you will experience food envy!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.lilliansitaliankitchen.com/">Lillian's</a><br />1116 Soquel Ave<br />Santa Cruz CA 95062<br />831.425.2288<br /><br />Italian food served up in a comfortable, casual setting. Attentive, authentic service from the family-owned personnel. Specialties:<br /><ul><li>Sunday gravy - tomato base meat sauce simmered slow with beef, pork, Italian sausage and spare ribs. Your choice of penne, spaghetti, fettucine or polenta. Don't forget the meatballs. Yum.</li><li>Black truffle stuffed gnocchi with white wine pesto cream sauce.</li></ul><br /><a href="http://www.gaylesbakery.com/">Gayle's</a><br />Bakery & Rosticceria<br />504 Bay Avenue<br />Capitola CA 95010<br />831.462.1200<br /><br />The glass display at Gayle's contains a bevvy of eye-catching pastries and cakes which beckon and confuse as you try make a decision. In the end breakfast burritos and cookies won out and we happily started the day on a high. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1485606748366180802.post-78903099784827108572015-03-02T10:00:00.000-08:002015-03-02T10:00:00.862-08:007-Ingredient Whipped Cream Cake<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YuvfPJAjUyg/VPPopEwYfPI/AAAAAAAACWg/lKgMG8N9RsY/s1600/Whipped%2BCream%2BCake%2Blayers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YuvfPJAjUyg/VPPopEwYfPI/AAAAAAAACWg/lKgMG8N9RsY/s1600/Whipped%2BCream%2BCake%2Blayers.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7 ingredients = one great cake</td></tr></tbody></table>It was one of those moments where buying whipping cream at Costco seemed rational and then...I got home and realized it was too much. "Yes, you purchased a half gallon of cream" my friend politely reminded me when lamenting this impulse purchase.<br /><br />Only recently did I notice the due date (this week) and the fact that I'd only really used about 1/3 of the container. While putting the container back in the fridge some text caught my eye: "Delicious Recipe" followed by "Whipped Cream Cake" and a short recipe on the side. <br /><br />I chuckled when imagining someone saying "but we need a hook or recipe to get people to buy this in bulk" only to realize later on that no one (but me) reads that stuff. So to honor the effort - and use up the remaining cream - I <b>made</b> that recipe. And what do you know...the cake was indeed delicious. And easy.<br /><br />What I love about this recipe is its simplicity: you only need seven ingredients which you probably already have on hand. The resulting cake is a moist, delicious canvas you can dress up or down according to the occasion or the state of your pantry.<br /><br />Me? I split the cake in half, brushed the center with a little lemon/sugar water and then added whipped cream for richness as the "frosting". A simple garnish of fruit and there you have it, dessert in very little time-to-table.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Delicious Recipe</span></b><br /><b>Whipped Cream Cake</b><br />**<br />1 cup cream<br />2 eggs<br />1 cup sugar<br />1 teaspoon vanilla<br /><br />1 1/2 cups flour<br />1/2 teaspoon salt<br />2 teaspoons baking powder<br />**<br /><br />Preheat oven to 350 degrees.<br /><br />Whip the cream until you have stiff peaks. Drop in each egg and beat until light, fluffy. Add the sugar and vanilla.<br /><br />In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, salt and baking powder. Add to the whip cream mixture. <br /><br />Pour the mixture into a greased 9-inch baking pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick, inserted in the middle, comes out clean.<br /><br />When the cake has cooled a bit, turn out onto a wire rack. <br /><br />- Optional for garnish -<br />1 cup whipping cream (whipped until you have stiff peaks)<br />Sugar, vanilla, fruit<br /><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0