First published here www.zagat.com/b/san-francisco/changing-tastes-you-can-learn-to-eat-even-like-everything at Zagat National in August 2014, Zagat took down all historic article archives after changing hands a couple times since my full time editor days so here is the article in its entirety: Read more →
Another year, another 600+ restaurants… or that’s how many I kept track of via spreadsheet – there’s even more in actuality (YES, this is my annual average). While I’ve long been a global traveler, 2013 was the most full yet: I visited over 25 cities in 10 different countries, so weeding through best tastes is more complicated than ever. 2013… Read more →
Another year, another few hundred bar menus tasted and perused around the globe. This year was the most full yet: I visited over 25 cities in 10 different countries. Which means weeding through best tastes is even more complicated. Given the vast range, I have three 2013 lists (more for best in food/dining here): 12 Best New Bars in San… Read more →
May these photos be a reminder of why these two restaurants are among San Francisco’s best, an impetus to return and try what are among the best dishes their chefs have created since opening. The best things improve with age. COMMONWEALTH, Mission (2224 Mission St., between 18th & 19th, 415-355-1500) Commonwealth, one of my overall top San Francisco restaurants out… Read more →
2012 gave birth to a number of new openings I hope will be around for years to come. As ever, my goal is to include cheaper spots alongside mid-range or upscale openings, considering range and uniqueness. It being December, we cannot strictly cover the calendar year, so with each choice open at least two months, the opening date range goes… Read more →
Article by Virginia Miller, Press photos/from brand websites Each year holds a range of interesting spirits released from around the globe. As the craft spirit industry continues to explode, there are many exciting newcomers this year. Here are some of the best of what’s crossed my desk in 2012. FORD’s GIN ($27) – The 86 Company is a new venture… Read more →
RICH TABLE, Hayes Valley (199 Gough St. at Oak, 415-355-9085) Not since State Bird Provisions and AQ opened towards the end of 2011 have I been as excited about a new opening. Evan and Sarah Rich’s new Rich Table presents itself as the whole package, kinks and all, even in the first month. With efficient, informed service, reasonably priced wine… Read more →
ACQUERELLO, Nob Hill(1722 Sacramento St. between Van Ness & Polk, 415-567-5432) One doesn’t often hear about Acquerello in dining circles these days. But we should. Not readily visible from the street, the restaurant’s lobby opens into a glowing dining room that at first glance appears an older clientele’s respite for an elegant meal. After a recent return to this classic since… Read more →
STATE BIRD PROVISIONS, Lower Fillmore/Japantown (1529 Fillmore St. between Geary & O’Farrell, 415-795-1273) Jazz is the soundtrack of the streets of Lower Fillmore. From its storied days as the “Harlem of the West”, to the current seat of Yoshi’s SF, Boom Boom Room, Sheba Piano Lounge, Rasselas, and other blues/jazz venues, the subtly gritty streets echo with its soulful past.… Read more →
AQ, 1085 Mission Street (between 6th & 7th), 415-341-9000 In its initial opening weeks, AQ reminds me of Commonwealth and Sons and Daughters. At all three restaurants, precision marries inventiveness… at a reasonable cost. AQ’s starters are $9 or $13, while entrees are $24 (prices lower at lunch). Dining in cities the world and country over, I can vouch that… Read more →