November 1, 2021

“When the inner and the outer are wedded, revelation occurs.” — Hildegard von Bingen

Dear friends ~

Chef Mourad/Aziza’s iconic salmon

The welcome (and desperately needed) rain here in NorCal has been a rich gift amid the ever-more-vibrant colors of fall making our vineyards and hillsides awash in the reds, yellows and oranges of my favorite season: Fall.

From Outside Lands this weekend in SF, to an unforgettable dinner from chef Mitsuharu Tsumura and his Lima team from Maido in Peru at a private mansion here in SF for four nights (The World’s 50 Best Restaurant #7), to a week-long study retreat, to an anniversary at The Gaige House ryokan rooms in Glen Ellen (my favorite Sonoma County town), it has been a very full second half of October. At times overwhelmed, ultimately, I feel utter gratefulness. This extends to the continued wealth of superb food and drink in my own city and region, from an inspiring (and endless) stream of new openings to longtime greats.

In addition to my regular articles at The Bold Italic, my weekly dining column reviews one restaurant each week. I welcome those interested to follow me, or even sign up for a membership for my articles at Medium, which partially goes to support us as writers. Follow or support here. I thank you.

Per usual, I’m posting my daily research in dining and drink at @ThePerfectSpot on TwitterFacebook and Instagram.

THIS ISSUE:

Chisai Sushi Club temaki

 

The LatestBrand New Chisai Sushi Club: For nigiri sushi fanatics and novices alike.
Top TastesSF’s Aziza: Some of the best Moroccan food in the country (and world), a pioneer since 2001 from chef Mourad Lahlou of Michelin-starred Mourad.
ImbiberDistiller Magazine: San Francisco interviews with Wildhawk’s Christian “Suzu” Suzuki and Marguerite Regan and Seven Stills distiller Tim Obert.
Top TastesUma Casa: SF’s only and most authentic Portuguese restaurant.

I am also available for consulting, moderating, leading classes and tastings and more (info at virginia-miller.com).

Cheers,
Virginia