Category: United States

[SF] Always Making Progress – The Progress

The Progress, locating near the Japantown on Fillmore, is the sister restaurant of the famous State Bird Provisions, which is a michelin one-starred restaurant. They are geographically right next to each other as well. Since my friend and I couldn't snap a table at the State Bird Provisions, we were glad that at least we got one at The Progress. Though The Progress has not yet earned a michelin star yet, the Esquire magazine has named it the 2015's best new American restaurant, and the chefs/owners, Stuart Brioza and Nicole Krasinski, are the masters behind the scene.

[SF] Brittany-Inspired Granny’s and Mommy’s Kitchen – Petit Crenn

Petit Crenn, locating in the Hayes Valley, is a neighborhood restaurant opened by the two Michelin-starred chef Dominique Crenn, whom has also been named the World's Best Female Chef, according to San Pellegrino's World's 50 Best Restaurants list. Unlike the high-end tasting menu at Atelier Crenn, Petit Crenn is designed to be a neighborhood restaurant, which was inspired by her grandmother, mother, and home, Brittany in the north-west France.

[SF] Farm-to-Table – Rich Table

Rich Table, locating in the Hayes Valley, is a farm-to-table restaurant that showcases the culinary vision of Chefs Evan and Sarah Rich. Everything on the menu looked very appetizing. This style of restaurant has been a favorite of mine lately, because it is always an interesting dinner experience to see what the chefs got to surprise the diners. As much as I love to order the "chef's pick", I went with a friend who preferred a la carte. Nonetheless, it was definitely one of the restaurants that I am certain to go back whenever I visit San Francisco again.

[SF] Pasta Tasting – Flour + Water

Flour + Water, locating in the Mission District, has been a popular spot ever since it opened its door in 2009. As its name, "flour" and "water" are the two basic ingredients (and eggs) for pasta making, hence it's an Italian restaurant. Chef Thomas McNaughton is definitely a pasta master. He had written a cookbook on the subject, which the signed copies are available for purchase in store. In this case, why not opt for a pasta tasting, featuring appetizer, 5 pastas, and a dessert, at the pasta master's restaurant?

[SF] Sharing is Caring – Parada 22

This is what I love the most about San Francisco - the variety of cuisines. Parada 22 is a gem in the Haight Ashbury neighborhood, not far from the Golden Gate Park. It serves home-style Puerto Rican cuisine, which I have never thought about such type of cuisine before. Even though the neighborhood is a bit sketchy, and I definitely recommend to go with a friend, nonetheless, the food was hearty, and nice vibe.

[SF] A Traveler’s Dining Option – EatWith

Besides Roli Roti Rotisserie at Ferry Plaza Building, another memorable meal I had was a private event called "EatWith", hosted by Don. I first heard about EatWith from a travel website. The concept is to "bring people together one meal at a time". It's an alternative and delicious way for travelers to explore more about the local culture by dining at a local's house. Though it might sounds a bit sketchy and weird, but I knew that it would definitely be a great experience. How can ones leave San Francisco without having king crabs, oysters, and clam chowder? Instead of afraid to get ripped off at the touristy Fisherman's Wharf, I saved my seafood cravings for this meal. I came across Fishmonger's Crab Feast, hosted by Don, who has zero average reviews on trip advisor!

[SF] The Legendary Roasted Chicken – Zuni Café

When I first brought up my potential San Francisco trip to my friend K (see her post), the first restaurant that she recommended was Zuni Café. She was talking about how juicy and tender the roasted chicken is, and telling me the tips about making reservation...etc. Therefore, I put it down on the list, and asked my friend in San Francisco to help me make a reservation. Guess what! We already made the call a month ahead, but the lunch services were booked till 2 pm!