text:
A controversial monastery in Rome – the scene of performances by lap-dancing nuns and "lifestyles that were probably not in keeping with that of a monk" – has been closed down on the orders of the Pope. The Santa Croce in Gerusalemme basilica, home to nuns and monks of the Cistercian order, is one of the oldest and most …
As with any religion
It all comes down to interpretation.
Somebody finally went back to the original handwritten text and discovered the word was actually "celebrate"
Why does it sound like something out of a Terry Pratchett?
Or at least what a 18's rated Discworld novel might be like.
Playmobil reconstruction or it never happened.
video of the lap dancing nunn or it never happened!
Playmobil? We want Real Photos!
Just that.
The BBC does favour us with a snap of Sister Nobili in what must be one of the more chaste poses from her dance repetoire.
Skip to 4:40, unless you speak Italian and want to listen to a nunn talking.
Thanks but ...
Too weird for me!
Bit weird...
Too right... I'm not sure what to make of it meself.
Bit irreverent at some parts but honestly, not as pervy as I thought it would be, but nevertheless, I can see why it could be labelled subversive.
Of course, there have always been somewhat saucy bits in the bible. i.e. Song of Songs.
Feck, Arse, Girls
Surely it's far better that senior figures in the Catholic church should be getting their jollies watching gyrating adult women capable of making their own lifestyle choices rather than molesting altar boys? Just putting a bloke in robes and a stupid hat doesn't stop him being a bloke.
would be an ecumenical matter."
Re: Feck, Arse, Girls
I think they put themselves there!
Damm right
the catholic church is no place for heterosexual adult sexual activity !
The country that gave us Berlusconi
Nuff said
"...island off the Irish coast..."
As somebody who visited western shores of Ireland (best god damned week of my life), I hereby claim: I´LL TAKE THE ROCK IN THE SEA NEAR IRELAND OVER THE MONASTERY IN ROME ANY FRIGGING DAY OF THE WEEK!!!
Craggy Island?
Careful now.
baffled ..
Fraggle Rock?
So perhaps this is where the Madge Vadge got her training from...
If there ain't no children, close it down!
what he said...
The catholic church is no place for heterosexuality.
A retrograde step ..... is just so typical of out of touch and ancient disorderly orders
To the adult section of the community, does the new virility and vitality certainly seems like a move in the right direction, and much healthier than the pedophilia the church is so well known for. But what would religion know of the modern world whenever it is such a sad relic and messenger of the past, in all its many disguises and versions .
Oh, look ...... new icons to help express further meaning. Bravo, El Reg.
Isn't it ever thus
That you only discover your true place in the world when they close it down.
Down with this sort of thing!
Careful now!
I could get used to thelife of a monk
If they kept this up...
I really should start my own cult...
Craggy Island
The enquiry "found evidence of ... financial irregularities..."
Isn't the response "The money was just "resting" in my account."
RE: Craggy Island
Damn you, beat me to it!
I was raised there!
Actually I was raised in that parish, many years ago. As a matter of fact my parents are still living in that parish. I did meet the people that "transformed" the parish, some time ago, and I did have a feeling that something was not right. My parents are defending those people and putting the blame on the enviousness of other priests.
You know what my take is? They have sold, literally sold, the place where I grew up as a child to some hotel. I used to go there and play soccer, and now kids can't do it anymore because of the hotel. The garden was a scam: they re-sold goods as they were theirs. And let's not talk about the stuff about "dancing in the church".
What did Jesus do to the merchants in the temple? Here we are in front of the very same problem: priests and monks that have sold the church for some money.
I am happy that the Vatican took measure and shut it down!
I wass raised Catholic...
...and I can tell you that, for MANY clerics of MANY faiths, the face they put on in public is very different than the face they put on in private.
When people reach a certain age and become unhappy with their lives, they often adopt addictive personalities - sex, drugs, alcohol. Religious people are also people. You'd be surprised how many priests, rabbis, nuns, imams, ministers, etc become sex-crazed party animals.
Likewise to the more cynical amongst you...
You'd be surprised at how many are not.
Father Ted reference
The Church in Rome
Well, this should start filling the seminaries again.
@ deadlockvictim
"Well, this should start filling the seminaries again."
...or emptying the semen-aries...
On a (slightly) more serious note, OTOH, the detail of the ex-lap-dancing nun reminded me of Anatole France's story "Our Lady's Juggler" (http://www.accuracyproject.org/t-France,Anatole-OurLadysJuggler.html). It *could* simply be that -- whatever others may have made of it -- like Brother Barnaby, she was praising Heaven in the only way she knew how.
Father Fioraso whereabouts
Oh, and I forgot one point: "Father Fioraso was busted from his position as abbot (and presumably despatched to a hardship posting on a remote island off the Irish coast)"
Father Fioraso is still living there. He was supposed to be dispatched to some remote monastery in Italy, to follow a some more appropriate monk life style, but he refused and he now walks all day long around the parish doing God knows what.
So, you can be happy, he wasn't dispatched off the Irish coast, yet. :)
Forgive me Father, for I have sinned
Monastery of the Holy Crotch
rather than Holy Cross.
Easy mistake to make
Feck! Drink! Arse!
That would be an ecumenical matter!
You couldn't make this up...
Somehow I think Father Fioraso needs a 'Kick up da arse' Brennan stylee. Come to think of it, Len may well have a suite there.
Ah, my coat with 'that' tape in the pocket.
Seems a bit mild compared to Pope John XII
A man with a nasty reputation, whose controversial reign as Pope was from AD955 to AD964 .
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pope_John_XII .
So that's what they mean
by monky business
...are human too. Who'd a thunk it?
Give up the dogma, recant the hypocrisy and start enjoying life.
If they give up their position in the church they will have to work for a living like the rest of us and have less opportunity to enjoy life at the level they were enjoying
Relics, eh?
Bad, wicked, naughty Zoot!
Old news...
Epic fail El Reg
You'd think 2000 years was long enough...
...to establish that this celibacy thing doesn't really work.
2000 years?
The (Catholic) church has not always been celibate thru' history.
Nor does it need to be exclusively, imho.
a new and flamboyant abbot...Father Simone Fioraso
For those of us who remember the old, classic, Saturday Night Live...perhaps this is where Father Guido Sarducci finally landed?
IT angle?
... wonder why no one yet inquired about thissa one.
Among the "holy relics"
from the BBC...
"They include ... ... ... a bone from the finger St Thomas pushed into the wounds of Christ."
Am I the only one who wants to vomit?
Oh come on!
I grew up watching that bone, and there nothing wrong, beside it being some singer bone!
Actually all over Italy you can watch some bones: http://www.arcarussa.it/forum/ossari-teschi-e-scheletri-mummie-vt4589.html , though in Italian, it is a (small) list of places where you can go "human bones" watching. Some are quite well preserved as well!
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What do the world's largest companies do in your backyard? How much taxes do they pay? Are they making sure their relations with your government are above board?
Wajir town, Wajir County: Wednesday, 1st October 2014 –Wajir County Government and non-governmental organisations have launched an Integrated Complaint Referral Mechanism dubbed 'Uwajibikaji Pamoja' in Wajir County today.
Transparency International Kenya welcomes Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo's call for lifestyle audits for junior officers as a measure to combat graft in the police service.
Contrary to reports appearing in some sections of the media this week, Transparency International and Transparency International Kenya have not ranked Kenya the fourth most corrupt country in the world.
Social auditors trained by Transparency International Kenya and the Wajir Paralegal Network (WAPNET) have plugged the loss of revenue from two community water pans in Wajir County.
Nairobi, Kenya: 16th June 2014 - Only 15% of Kenyans have participated in citizen consultation forums at the county level in the last 12 months.
Transparency International has published the 'Corruption Risk Assessment of the Education Sector in Turkana County'.


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1/1 Photo of Danish banana cake
Prep Time:
Cook Time:
15 mins
55 mins
My children did not like banana bread and I found that recipe in a small magazine, I tried it. They love it so much that when I make it I cannot keep it for long. It is very tasty. It is now the only banana cake I make.
Units: US | Metric
Serving Size: 1 (115 g)
Servings Per Recipe: 15
Every recipe, menu, tip and how-to is right here, at your service.


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Web site: http://www.pbs.org/masterpiece/
Episode description: Morse and Thursday are confronted with a new breed of murderer, as a string of Oxford homicides continues with no end in sight. The entire police department is working round the clock and a special expert comes on to assist, but Morse's love of opera may be the key to stopping the killing.
Rating: [TV-PG] (Parental Guidance Suggested)
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Beijing Travel Stories
A Cool 3-Day Beijing Trip (Day 1)
by wendysong at 2014/7/2; Views: 126; Comments: 0;
No matter you enter the capital by air, train or bus, transportation and accommodation are something that needs figured out before you actually arrive. It never goes wrong to choose a place near as…
A Cool 3-Day Beijing Trip (Day 2)
by wendysong at 2014/7/2; Views: 113; Comments: 0;
Day-2 Beijing Back in Yesterdays The Forbidden City is the major highlight for today, worthy my early up at 5am. After a simple breakfast, I got on the bus to Jingshan Park, yes again. Getting …
A Cool 3-Day Beijing Trip (Day 3)
by wendysong at 2014/7/2; Views: 194; Comments: 0;
Day-3 Wander and Wonder in Beijing As usual, I get up early this morning and a 5-Yuan breakfast kicks me a good start. The first target for today is the Temple of Heaven. Words on the street th…
How to Plan a Family Trip to China
by wendysong at 2014/4/27; Views: 520; Comments: 3;
China is one of the most popular destinations for family travel. However, there are some important notes for a good family holiday, especially when you are traveling with kids. We have gathered som…
by meimeili at 2014/3/25; Views: 119; Comments: 0;
Hiking is a fashionable way of traveling, which is full of challenge , yet it becomes more and more popular among visitors. Its very common that hikers suspend their hiking owing to natural conditi…
by meimeili at 2014/3/4; Views: 154; Comments: 0;
As a symbol of the Chinese nation, the Great Wall stretches likes a huge dragon in the vast land of China, which is more than 5,000 kilometers (3,107 miles) long from east to west, hence its name t…
How to travel Beijing cheaply?
by meimeili at 2014/2/25; Views: 147; Comments: 0;
How to travel Beijing cheaply? In any other place of China, most of Beijing attractions would be greatly appreciated; as Beijing is extremely vast and expensive, it is wise to make a selection...…
by meimeili at 2014/1/7; Views: 235; Comments: 0;
Beijing Kung Fu Show The Legend of Kung Fu Show is an astonishing mix of traditional martial arts and modern theatre; a beautiful and most loved performance in a vibrant show atmosphere. Pe…
by meimeili at 2013/12/31; Views: 238; Comments: 0;
1. Huangguoshu Waterfall Cluster As the largest waterfall cluster in China, Huangguoshu Waterfall Cluster, 77.8 meters (255 feet) high and 101 meters (331 feet) wide, is composed of 18 cascadin…
Beijing Travel in Four Seasons
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The Chinese capital Beijing is a world-famous historical and cultural city, which is suitable for sightseeing in four seasons owing to its rich and colorful tourist resources, including both natura…
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Former "Brady Bunch" actress Maureen McCormick has a personal connection to Davy Jones, the member of The Monkees who died Wednesday of a heart attack at the age of 66.
He famously played himself in an episode of her sitcom, agreeing to a request by her character, Marcia Brady, to appear at her prom.
Speaking to TMZ.com, McCormick remembers Jones as a man who "spread love and goodness around the world. He filled our lives with happiness, music, and joy."
She adds, "He will live on in our hearts forever. May he rest in peace."


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The World's Largest Coalition of Nontheists and Nontheist Communities!
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We didn't see an bears or moose – but the LOONS!!! We were thoroughly captivated by their calls! One evening, we heard them do their dance – unforgettable!
Mike and Sue are running a great operation. We hope to be back next year!
Lindsay & Bill – Atlanta, GA]]>
Ortonville, MI]]>
Brad – Minneapolis, MN
This was my 1st trip to the Boundary Waters and one that I had been looking forward to for 5 years. When my son was turning 8 I told him that when he was turning 13 we would do a week long BWCA trip together. Knowing very well that once he hits the "Fume Years" (Gas Fumes and Perfumes) that he may have other priorities.
The BWCA trip was perfect. The staff at Voyageur's was outstanding (especially Mike), the bunk house the night before departure was comfy, the canoe was outstanding and the food way better than what I would have packed. We covered 18 Lakes, 20 Portages and had a little bit of everything on this Boundary Waters trip: Canoeing in the rain for about an hour, Sunny weather, calm winds, gusty winds, a storm at night, great fishing (my son caught his 1st Smallmouth and 1st Northern) and just about everything else I could have wanted out of the trip.
I have already begun recommending Voyageurs to my friends in the Las Vegas Canoe Club and really looking forward to doing the trip with my 9 year old in a few years.
Thanks again everyone, you have helped create outstanding memories that both my son and I will have for the rest of our lives.
Tom & Alekzander Hall – Las Vegas, NV]]>
Jason Colvin
Eden Prairie, MN]]>
Columbus, IN]]>
Scott, Anton, Lindsay, Josh, Megan, Dan, Josh, Madeleine, and Bodie
Pleasant Prairie, WI]]>
Ben Shelton
Dallas, TX]]>
The Voyageur staff was very professional and really took the time to go over the equipment, route, and maps with us until we felt comfortable. They also put us up in a nice rustic cabin and served a great pancake breakfast to get us going with a strong start. All of our equipment was in excellent condition and packed perfectly. The food was generous, well-packed, labeled perfectly, and really good. When we returned from our BWCA adventure, the staff had our car pulled up for easy loading, took care of all of the equipment immediately, and offered us towels and a shower.
I have done lots of camping trips before, but have never been outfitted by a company. This is really the way to go. I HIGHLY recommend VCO for their professionalism, high quality of gear, level of support, and the convenience.
Minneapolis, MN]]>
Carol Spurlock
Rolla, Missouri]]>


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The Pub at Doral Arrowwood
- Address:
975 Anderson Hill Road
Rye Brook, NY 10573Neighborhood:
Rye Brook
- Cuisine:
AmericanPrice: $30 and under
The Pub at Doral Arrowwood
- Dining Style: Casual Dining
- Website: http://www.doralarrowwood.com/dining/the-pub
- Phone: (914) 935-6630
- Hours of Operation:
Lunch: Saturday - Sunday: 11:00am - 4:00pm; Dinner: Monday - Friday: 2:00pm - 11:00pm, Saturday - Sunday: 4:00pm - 11:00pm
Happy Hours: 4:00pm - 6:00pm
- Payment Options: AMEX,MasterCard,Visa
- Cuisine: American
- Executive Chef: Michael Schmutzer
- Dress Code: Casual Dress
- Accepts Walk-Ins: Yes
- Additional Details: Bar Dining, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Dancing, Fireplace, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking Restaurant, Takeout
- Entertainment: The PUB, One Of The Best Westchester County Bars For Drinks With Friends. Live DJ every Saturday night from 10pm to 1am.
A word from The Pub at Doral Arrowwood
Searching for the quintessential pub? Then get ready to hang up your hat, because The PUB at Doral Arrowwood is a favorite among Westchester County bars for its character and friendly ambiance. From its handsome wrap-around bar, rustic living room, and fireplace to the 14 high definition flat screen televisions, pool tables, dart boards, and dance floor, The PUB is the best Westchester bar for relaxing with friends.Continued
Foodspotting photosSee all photos
The Pub at Doral Arrowwood reviews from OpenTable diners
2 reviews since July 30, 2014
- Food3.5Service3.5
- Ambiance2.5Noise LevelEnergetic
good for groups (2)great for brunch (1)great for lunch (1)late-night find (1)hot spot (1)vibrant bar scene (1)kid-friendly (1)Show More
- Large PartyOpenTable Diner Since 2010Dined on 6/19/2014We had a party of 16 and the Pub was very efficient and friendly handling the wide age spread and making sure that each person had what they requested. I did notice that the menu had changed along with increased pricing that raised the overall price for us at least 20% with no increase in quality or size. I was surprised that even the prices for a burger increased and there also was a charge for each item that was requested on the burger. We all had a good time but I will think twice about going there with such a large party.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Grand-daughter birthday celebrationIbirdDined on 4/20/2014So very children friendly---Even sang Happy Birthday. The girls enjoyed their burgers!!!!Special Features:
- Great PlaceNKBarryDined on 4/17/2014Great place to go for happy hour. I went with co-workers and had a great time. Staff is excellent.Special Features:
- Great SpotOpenTable Diner Since 2014Dined on 4/12/2014We ate there before going to a performance at the college. Therefore we were not lingering over our meal. In light of that, the food was excellent, the service also and it was a great place for a burger.I would recommend this to a friend.
- FairHarp28VIPDined on 3/8/2014You can't expect a gourmet experience from a hotel pub, however the food was quite fair and the service very friendly and attentive.Special Features:
- The waiter was disinterestedDawnDined on 8/18/2013The waiter was disinterested and not very friendly. We were his only table so he wasn't unattentive because he was busy. The Bloody Mary was horrible, the celery was soft and they had no horseradish to put in the drink. The food was better than the drinks and service. I had the vegetable panini and it was tasty.
- Alternative to BrunchMisterPDined on 8/11/2013Having paid dearly for weekend brunch in the main dining room, we decided to try the less-expensive pub for lunch on the weekend. We were not disappointed. The room was dark and quiet, save for the many distracting tv screens all over the place. We knew this before hand so were not surprised. The food on the lunch menu was typical for a pub, but was quite tasty and served well. We will now return here for a much more reasonable and delicious lunch.Special Features:
- We had a group of 10-15 peopleOpenTable Diner Since 2007Dined on 4/22/2013We had a group of 10-15 people go here for a Happy Hour. They cornered off a section of the bar for us, brought out pitchers and appetizers and everything was great. If you're in the area, I would recommend.Special Features:
- My hubby and I celebratedOpenTable Diner Since 2012Dined on 4/22/2012My hubby and I celebrated our special birthday last April 22,2012 with friends and we all had a great time,we'll certainly be backSpecial Features:
- This is your typical darkOpenTable Diner Since 2012Dined on 3/24/2012This is your typical dark pub with lots of TV. You go there for the kids to keep occupied, not the food.Special Features:
- Slow service I did not likeOpenTable Diner Since 2012Dined on 3/2/2012Slow service I did not like it but free pool and dartsSpecial Features:


text:
Art4All DC is a festival of festivals. Spanning three weeks, DC comes alive with art in all four quadrants. Take in dance, theater, music, fashion, visual art, heritage tours and all that DC has to offer both inside and on the streets in neighborhoods across the District.
Art4All DC sparks collaboration, builds participation, creates accessible opportunities, and presents arts in unexpected places. Art4All DC helps people learn more about the cultural programs available in the District and inspires them to participate as an audience member, supporter, blogger, lingering bystander or creator.


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1/1 Photo of Quick & Easy Creamy Wild Rice Soup
Prep Time:
Cook Time:
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0 mins
This is the quickest, easiest Wild Rice Soup recipe I've ever encountered, and it tastes good, too! Simple to finish on the stovetop, and a perfect warm-up meal for winter. Add spices to suit your family's taste; this is a very basic recipe for a nice, creamy, hearty soup. Prep time includes time to make rice.
Units: US | Metric
Serving Size: 1 (364 g)
Servings Per Recipe: 6
The following items or measurements are not included:
Uncle Bens wild rice
Every recipe, menu, tip and how-to is right here, at your service.


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Thomas J Begora, JrGeorgia Elite Realty
Acworth, GA
License State: Georgia | Service areas: Acworth, Marietta, Woodstock, Canton, Conyers Cartersville, Decatur, Douglasville, Atlanta, Clayton, Oxford, Cumming, Kennesaw, Martin, Griffin
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About Thomas J Begora, Jr
Thomas J Begora, Jr is a licensed Georgia real estate agent with activity below his peer average, ranked in the lower 27% of his peers.
He has completed at least 9 transactions with an average sale price of $88K. He has closed transactions ranging from $29K to $149K in value.
Thomas J's brokerage of record is Georgia Elite Realty where he primarily serves buyers with Single Family properties in Acworth, Marietta and Woodstock.
Thomas J stands out because of his low success rate in selling his client's listings.
Thomas J's Pros & Cons
Low Listing LoadThomas J currently has significantly less listings for sale than his peers, which means he is less burdened by his current client load more
NegotiationThomas J has a history of effectively pricing his clients' homes for sale and for delivering sales at values close to their asking prices.
Luxury Market SpecialistThomas J has significant experience brokering transactions involving highly valued properties.
Less ExperiencedThomas J has considerably less experience than other real estate agents in the Acworth area who list and sell similar homes. more
Lower Closing RateThomas J sells less of the properties he lists for sale than real estate agents handling similar properties in the same area. more
Thomas J's Performace Statistics
General Statistics
Seller Statistics
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Comments About Thomas J Begora, Jr
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Fabricca Update
- f
- foodtvtype Nov 23, 2010 08:26 AM
It appears that Mark McEwan reads Chowhound.
Fabbrica launched a new menu Saturday night and the much-criticized $3 charge for bread has been dropped. The menu has been tweaked as well with some of the more exotic items gone (no more sweetbreads) and prices lowered a bit as well.
We had made reservations weeks ago and decided to go ahead despite the tepid reviews the place has received on this board and in the Toronto press. I'm glad we did.
The food was very good and after a bit of a rough start, the staff went out of their way to make the evening enjoyable. When we first arrived they wanted to seat us in the bar area. We politely but firmly requested a table in the main part of the restaurant. After initially being told it would mean a wait of at least 30-40 minutes they found us a nice table within 10 minutes while we sipped on cocktails at the bar.
After that the service couldn't have been better. Our engaging waitress kept a keen eye on us reporting on progress of dishes and making sure my wine glass was never empty for more than 30 seconds.
We started with fried smelts and Berkshire prosciutto. The smelts were fantastically fresh (although a little too aggressively salted) however the prosciutto (while nicely presented) lacked any distinctive "Berkshire" flavour that would have made it stand out from a regular breed.
The wood-fired oven was evident in the perfectly cooked lamb sausage and fennel pizza we shared. The dish is marked on the menu as a "chef's favourite" and justifiably so.
Although the menu was brand new, we were told the "bistecca for two" was unavailable. While my wife went ahead with an individual striploin, I opted for another "chef's favourite" in the braised short-rib which turned out to be one of the best braised rib dishes I have ever enjoyed.
Portion sizes are quite generous so by this point we were too full for dessert and finished the evening with a couple of lemoncellos (which would have been better in chilled glasses.)
Fabbrica is still far from perfect. Mark McEwan still needs to figure out if the restaurant is to be a dining destination in Don Mills or a trendy hangout serving $20 pizzas to twenty-somethings. However, I can confidently report that the restaurant is back on track after its shaky opening.
49 Karl Fraser Road, Toronto, ON M3C0E5, CA
re: Pincus
About $250 before tip. That covered cocktails, a bottle of wine, two antipasti, 1 shared pizza, 2 mains and after dinner liqueurs.
In the Star review McEwan is quotes as saying ~ "The cooking's too involved for the average person. It's meant to be entertaining, another layer of your story in their home and another connection between you," he says.
I am neither Italian or a Nonna, but Italian cooking is not that hard as McEwan suggests .... Being an "average person" I do all the Italian preserves ( eggplants, peppers, olives, etc.) and the involvement in making these or even a homemade pizza makes it all the more entertaining and exciting when you share it with friends and family (and the process of making it does not come close to $200) ....
It just takes time .... But in the dead of winter, I'm certainly not going to drive to Fabbrica to get my $20 pizza and $38 beer .... I'm going to crack open a jar of preserves and make my own darn pizza .....
re: coach_house
or better yet, go to Queen Margherita.
re: coach_house
I reread the review you are refrencing and she is talking about his cookbook not the food at fabricca when he says the food is too complicated for the average person.
49 Karl Fraser Road, Toronto, ON M3C0E5, CA
re: Ediblethoughts
well, the direct translation (thanks Google!) is:
I think these are bottles of pickles for you to take home. That's what I assumed when I looked at the menu, anyway.
re: jlunar
Ah, I see. That's very odd...
re: jlunar
I think the translation would be closer to "Pickles for your pantry"
Or as Frank Zappa once said, "Let go of my pickle"
re: foodyDudey
Seems like pricey pickles. I wonder how many ounces per purchase..
re: Ediblethoughts
The McEwan supermarket across from Fabbrica sells chicken stock in a spaghetti-sauce size jar for $6. Chicken stock. Need anyone say more?
re: morefoodplz
He may have packed the essence of a whole $6 chicken into that jar... you never know!
We ate there last Sat night. Table had two pizzas and four pasta dishes plus dessert. I tried the papadelle this time and loved it. Pizzas wee yummy as usual. Service was extremely attentive and knowledgable.
I know that people like to knock this place, so that is good as it will keep the crowds away. As it was, they were full.
I wasn't going to bother posting, until I saw DUHCAR post. At least there's one other person who doesn't hate on this place! I thought the pappardelle was quite good too.
Here's my post (photos/menu: http://bit.ly/eW07GW ) I made last week:
Stracciatella alla romana is a classic with chicken broth, egg, and reggiano. This is the first time I've had this dish, and though quite nice, it's not as transcendent as others have made it to be. Or maybe I was expecting too much.
Cherry peppers, anchovy, olives, capers, and bocconcini. Peperoni della nonna was both tasty and beautiful.
The linguine. Clams, white wine, and garlic. Really quite good. I didn't order this, but I would consider it for next time!
Pappardelle with crab, guanciale, cream, and soft-poached egg. Delicious, but expensive at $27. Also, to nit-pick, the egg white was a bit tasteless, especially in contrast with the delicious yolk mixed in with the pasta.
The bistecca was a small and anemic portion of skirt steak that tasted okay. The salad of wild arugula, smoked tomato, pickled onion, reggiano, and balsamic vinegar was good, if a tad over-dressed, but that's down to personal taste.
The canolo is well-priced and decent. It's no Mike's Modern Pastry in Boston, but it's also not 800+ kilometres away. I also enjoyed their sorbets. The pear was especially nice.
All in all, Fabbrica isn't somewhere I would go often, but I would still return (preferably on someone else's dime). I found the pastas to be better than at Scarpetta, and to me, the prices are pretty equivalent. You just don't get the same fancy wrapper as you do at Scarpetta, which is a blessing sometimes. If Fabbrica could tweak and lower their prices, it would certainly make it on to my roster of regular restaurants.
Photos/menu: http://www.foodpr0n.com/2010/11/30/fa...
I'm a young professional that has experienced my share of fine dining restaurants in Toronto, and around the world. I find nothing more pleasurable than entertaining at a fine dining establishment, enjoying the great cuisine and kicking back with friends among a nice atmosphere. The one thing I absolutely cannot tolerate is an establishment that caters to upscale diners but feel that because they are serving at the elite level, they feel they have the right to treat their customers with disrespect and get away with it.
My experience at Fabricca was one of the worst experiences of any fine dining restaurant I've tried in Toronto (or any other cosmopolitan city). Two of my girlfriends and myself decided to have a nice dinner at Fabricca one weekend and chose this restaurant due to the fact that we love Italian food and it was supposedly comparable to the rustic Southern Italian fare of restaurants like Terroni. We made reservations 2 weeks in advance. We ordered appetizers, main dishes, side dishes, two bottles of wine and dessert. Before we even finished the appetizers, the waiter(s) kept coming by and taking them away before they were even done. Our appetizer of olives was full and for some odd reason, they took it away. Due to the fact that we were so immersed in our conversation, I didn't say anything but it became apparent they were rushing us. Dinner was taken away before asking if we were done with that. Then, to add insult to injury, in the middle of dessert and finishing our wine, they took it away, and a hostess came to our table to tell us they wanted us to move to the bar so they could seat another guest. We had not finished our dessert, nor our wine - they told us they would "buy us a complimentary drink at the bar but we needed to go now." I was shocked and a little confused. We had only been at the table for 1.5 hours - we had ordered a full course meal - our bill was over $300 - we had made reservations in advance. Not sure how they think this is considered grade A service for what they consider a grade A restaurant. What I don't understand is that there are literally hundreds of upscale restaurants in Toronto. Why would McEwan expect that someone who is treated this way would ever return to a restaurant that like this?
My career involves booking a lot of venues for corporate events and dinners. I would never consider recommending or returning to a restaurant such as Fabricca that treats their customers like an assembly line. I wouldn't have been treated this poorly at a mid-grade Boston Pizza, never mind dishing out a few hundred dollars to be pushed out of my table so they can get as much turnover on a weekend – how tacky.
If you want to have great rustic Italian fare with great service and atmosphere, just got to Terroni or Osteria – they are on the ball with service and price without any pretentious attitude. Take my word for it, this place puts Toronto fine dining to shame. I recently went to Chicago to try Table 52 (Oprah's ex-chef who opened his own restaurant). Not only did they give you true Southern hospitality, the chef, Art Smith came by to every table to welcome them personally. The hostess even told us that the reason why it's so hard to get a reservation is because they don't book every single table each night so that everyone feels crammed in – they book every other table to give you a good ambiance without the stuffy crowd. Perhaps McEwan should check it out and learn a few things about how real chefs do it...and maybe he should train his staff on what "service" really means. This place was not worth my time and money – I won't be raving about this place to my friends or my business associates in future.
106 Victoria St, Toronto, ON M5C, CA
49 Karl Fraser Road, Toronto, ON M3C0E5, CA
re: christinesong
Oh my, what a disgrace. I certainly hope McEwan sees this or his pr people point it out to him..
re: christinesong
I agree that this should never have happened and something you should have pointed out while you where there. I have eaten at Fabricca 3x and have enjoyed it more and more every time. On our first visit I could see that the apps where coming fast and so would the main course - I asked them to slow the service down and we enjoyed a nice relaxing dinner.
The only thing I cant figure out is how you say the Terroni has great service....wow talk about people with an attitude and no ability to make a customer happy
Five of us ate there last night for the first time.
Food - gorgeous. We really enjoyed everything we ate (more on this below).
Service - mostly friendly, but needs work with two exceptions:
1. the valet parking guys who were professional, friendly, and knew their business (as we were leaving, the car was aimed North, and the valet asked if we were going West, which can be complicated from that spot); and
2. one notable moment at the table: we ordered lardo, and the otherwise awkward waiter (nice, but he seemed new to the business) asked "do you know what that is?", obviously aware that lardo might freak us out [it did, in fact, freak some of us out]).
The hostesses were genuinely rude - they were in "...and you are...?" mode. They should understand that this is a restaurant, not a club. It's the sort of restaurant where five people will spend $600. We have a reservation. We are not interested in feeling lucky to get by the door.
We were parked at the bar for twenty minutes despite having a reservation (we were 15 minutes late but called 30 minutes in advance). I see from other posts that this is not unique.
The bartender was friendly and quick (the rest of our party got their drinks in good time), but she had some trouble with my drink - 2 oz this brand name, 1/2 oz that brand name, rocks glass stuffed with ice, quarter lime. First try (bar was not busy ): wrong liquor poured; second try: right drink, plus bar mix. Third try - perfect, and a generous pour. She was a good sport despite the fact I was being high maintenance.
Our server was a good kid. The order was right, the food came timed nicely, and he was patient, and knew what was on the menu. He just needs some training in showing the love. Example: we changed our dessert order; my wife and I decided just to share two things rather than three. He said (sounding skeptical) "uh, OK", as if we were letting him down. In fairness to him, changing our minds is a hassle.
Starters were awesome - the stuffed pepper alla noona was delicious, octopus with salami and chickpeas genuinely a great dish - as good as anything I've ever eaten; lardo beautiful (not a unanimous view, but hey, it's lardo - people of goodwill can differ), salads delicious.
Sea bream perfectly cooked, crab linguine gorgeous with beautifully poached egg on top (yay! there are identifiable pieces of crab in it).
Note to Mark McEwan: Fire the hostesses who were working last night, ask the valet parking guys to help you train the floor staff in how to show the love, buy the bartender a cup of coffee, make sure you keep everyone in the kitchen around for a good long time, and this could be a much-loved restaurant.


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Help wanted with a tentative itinerary for Yountville/Napa + SF in late August
- hcbk0702 Jun 26, 2008 12:29 PM
We're coming in from NY to explore Napa Valley and the Bay Area for about a week (most likely arriving at SFO or OAK on the afternoon of Saturday, August 23). Here's what I have so far:
Saturday, August 23
Dinner – Bouchon
Sunday, August 24
Lunch – The French Laundry
Dinner – Ad Hoc or Redd
Monday, August 25
Lunch – ZuZu
Dinner – Ubuntu
Tuesday, August 26
Lunch – In-N-Out (on the way to SF)
Dinner – Yank Sing (or other Dim Sum place)
Wednesday, August 27
Lunch – The Slanted Door (not sure about this one)
Dinner – Aziza
Thursday, August 28
Lunch – Bar Tartine (not sure about this one)
Dinner – Chez Panisse
We may also stay Friday as well, so if anyone has additional suggestions for a casual lunch and dinner, please speak up! In terms of food preferences, we're up for pretty much anything. However, I'd probably avoid places like Fleur de Lys and Gary Danko, since I can go to Jean Georges, Le Bernardin etc. any other time throughout the year. Probably no sushi places either; Sushi Yasuda is my go-to back home, and Kurumazushi, Sushi Seki, Ushi Wakamaru etc. are also easily accessible.
Thanks for your help!
After lunch at TFL, I would be surprised if you want dinner. If you do, be aware that Ad Hoc is a fixed price meal with four courses, served family style, and the portions are large. Redd is terrific but, after TFL, you're probably going to want to order light and may not get the full experience. Frankly, I'd eliminate Bouchon (or go there for lunch) and go to Redd that night instead. If you do anticipate wanting dinner after TFL, go to Ubuntu that night.
You are aware that Chez Panisse, also a set fixed price menu, is across the bay in Berkeley. I don't know what time you're planning on going but the commute traffic across the bay bridge can be frightful. Not sure how close the nearest BART station is, but give that a thought. Though they're really not similar, if you decide to skip Chez Panisse, consider Zuni Cafe--unique to San Francisco, in my view.
I forgot this in my earlier post. Why do you want to go to In N Out? Yes, it's a cut above McDonalds, Burger King and the like but if you really want a burger, fries and a shake, go to Taylor's Refresher in St. Helena or the branch in the Ferry Building in SF. Instead, I'd stop in Sausalito and enjoy the views of San Francisco from one of the restaurants there. Just opened in Fort Baker, right beneath the GG Bridge, is a restaurant lodge called Cavallo Point. No reviews yet, but it's a gorgeous setting.
re: bobpantzer
It's probably not the burger, it's In and Out. In LA it's Pink's and Tommy's. In NY it's Grey's Papaya and in Detroit, it's Lafayette Coney Island. "Who can explain it, who can tell you why."
re: wolfe
Yeah, you're probably right. I just don't want them to be disappointed. I think of them sitting there looking out on the parking lot of a shopping center listening to the roar of traffic on either 101 or interstate 80 (depending on which way they come) while just a few miles away is the picturesque village of Sausalito with it's views of the City. Oh, well.
re: bobpantzer
Am I the only one who doesn't get Taylor's Refresher? I wouldn't say it's a horrible burger, but it is nothing to write home about. Wine at a burger joint is cool and all, but the only thing impressive about the wine list at Taylor's is that it's at a burger joint.
RE In-N-Out: You can eat there without leaving Napa!
In-N-Out warning: In-N-Out gets worse the further you get from Southern California. You really can't get the same experience in NoCal.
re: sunnyand72
Although with their schedule it may be a little early.
In-N-Out Burger
820 W Imola Ave, Napa, CA
re: sunnyand72
I never quite got Taylor's Refresher either. They do use quality beef and it generally tasty...but the burger is small, the bun weird and it's not cheap. A plain burger, coke and fries runs you $11 bucks. Another bun and 2 more oz of beef and it "could" be very good. The one plus is they're open until 10 p.m. (Ferry Bldg...never been to Napa) and past 6 p.m. it's very easy.
re: InO...I don't sense much difference between NorCal and SoCal...I grew up in SoCal but I've never compared them critically...at $1.50 for single..it's sort of pointless to me.
re: ML8000
I don't know about the HAMburger but the AHI TUNA burger is tast-y.
re: maria lorraine
How is the ahi burger? Is it marinated? Ahi tends to dry if not prepared carefully so I tend to avoid it in sandwiches.
re: ML8000
The Ahi burger is my choice as well; disgustingly rare with an unctuous ginger slaw -- all far from dry.
re: sunnyand72
To me, Taylor's is bizarrely expensive for the average quality. The food's okay, which makes it better than most tourist traps, but as far as I'm concerned that's what it is.
In-N-Out is a Los Angeles institution. Eating at one in the Bay Area is much like eating at the Boudin cafe at the Disneyland Fisherman's Wharf.
re: Robert Lauriston
A few questions, Robert...
Have you eaten at Taylor's St. Helena location, or the Ferry Building or Oxbow locations? Do you find the food varies from location to location?
Did you have the ahi tuna burger?
Have you found a difference in the food between the LA and SF Bay Area In-n-Out locations? Can you describe it?
re: maria lorraine
The quality and character of In 'n' Out's food is discussed on the Chains board. In my limited experience, their food is consistently mediocre, but I've only eaten there when the only alternative was an even worse chain, such as McDonald's.
I ate at the original Taylor's (before people started calling undercooked tuna "ahi") and at the Ferry Plaza branch. Even its fans tend to admit that the food's nothing very special.
re: Robert Lauriston
In-N-Out: But I was curious about *your* comment and your personal taste experiences vis a vis LA vs.SF Bay Area In-N-Out locations. Can you comment on the difference in food between the two metropolitan areas?
Taylors: It is ahi, is it not? Or is it tuna, not of the ahi type, cooked like ahi tuna? Is this preparation -- slightly seared, basically raw -- that you don't like, or Taylor's preparation of ahi tuna that you don't like?
Forgive me for all the questions, but I'm trying to decipher your tone and subtext, and it's better to just ask you straight out.
re: sunnyand72
I absolutely don't get Taylor's either. What on earth is it doing in the Ferry Building? It sticks out like a sore thumb. A gross, greasy, fast-food sore thumb. Apparently the original location is supposed to be good, but the FB location was simply awful, and it seems to me to be the antithesis of what the Ferry Building Marketplace is supposed to be about.
On my one visit, I had the misfortune to get to the FB after all the other food purveyors had closed, and the only one open was Taylor's. OK, how bad could it be? Answer: Inedible burnt burger. (What part of "medium rare" did the cook not get?). I sent it back; the replacement was not burnt, but was not medium rare either. Lackluster green salad. Greasy fries.
With all the other places in the FB, I am flabbergasted that anyone goes to Taylor's voluntarily. In-N-Out is no great prize, but it's better that the FB Taylor's and is about 1/4 the price. (Taylors: burger, salad, fries = $20 without drink).
As has already been said, don't have dinner plans after lunch at TFL, you may not want anything at all, if you do, just have drinks and snacks at the bar somewhere. I'd schedule your Ad Hoc dinner the night before TFL, instead of Bouchon (and make it an early dinner). You can't get dim sum for lunch, so if that's what you want, move Slanted Door to dinner on Tuesday and have dim sum for lunch on Wednesday. (Yank Sing is a fine choice, there are lots of others to choose from, though). Also, Bar Tartine isn't open for lunch, so if you want to eat there, move that to dinner either Friday night (if you stay that long) or have dinner there Thursday night and lunch at Chez Panisse (this would only be the cafe upstairs, which is great, but not the downstairs more formal restaurant). I would stick with dinner at Chez Panisse, though, and have dinner at Bar Tartine either the next night or the previous night.
Before you decide on dinner at Bar Tartine (as suggested by someone above), check out the menu on their website. It's a really casual place with, at least as far as I'm concerned, kiind of an unusual and limited dinner menu. I don't think of it as a dinner restaurant but a breakfast or brunch kind of place. Maybe I'm alone in this. I'd go next door to Delfina for dinner if I was in that neighborhood.
re: bobpantzer
Bar Tartine is not the same as Tartine bakery. Bar Tartine does not have a limited menu, and is only open for dinner most days, and brunch on weekends.
re: JasmineG
Thanks for correcting me. I'll try it for dinner sometime.
re: bobpantzer
Dinner menu Bar Tartine.
Better than In and Out.
Bar Tartine
561 Valencia Street, San Francisco, CA 94110
It looks like for you're Napa stay, you're trying to group restaurants geographically. Unless you're somehow limited by your mode of transportation, I wouldn't bother. I agree with the people who say you're not going to want an Ad Hoc/Redd kind of dinner after lunch at TFL. I suggest that your plan for that night be to go to St. Helena and wander around (it's a charming small town), then go to Martini House and have drinks and a light meal on the terrace -- a very California wine country experience. Drop Bouchon (you've got plenty of French bistros in NY), and do Redd/Ad Hoc Saturday.
re: Ruth Lafler
I agree with dropping Bouchon and I'm a former Bouchon lover. Their kitchen is being remodeled and the restaurant is really off its game. Truly. I'm not sure they'll be back on their game by the end of August. Even when I was a true Bouchon lover, I always sat at the bar (the only place, IMO) as the bad acoustics in the tables area make it so you can't hear your dining companions, but you can hear the person at the table next to you.
re: maria lorraine
We also used to love Bouchon, especially last year, but do not like the place at all this year: it has gone downhill. Both the service (very uncaring)and the food were disappointing now.
We did like Ad Hoc, a lot.
Thanks for all the great advice! Here's a revised list:
Saturday, August 23
Dinner – Ad Hoc
Sunday, August 24
Lunch – The French Laundry
Dinner – Ubuntu
Monday, August 25
Lunch – ZuZu
Dinner – Redd
Tuesday, August 26
Lunch – In-N-Out
Dinner – ???
Wednesday, August 27
Lunch – Yank Sing
Dinner – Aziza
Thursday, August 28
Lunch – Zuni Cafe
Dinner – Chez Panisse
It seems like there isn't much enthusiasm for Bouchon on this board, so I'll most likely drop it. I'll probably put Ad Hoc in its stead.
Our reservation at TFL is at 11 AM, so I think we'll be able to manage a light, late dinner pretty easily (also, my brother is a glutton, though he doesn't look it). Would Ubuntu be a good choice for that?
Any thoughts on Redd vs. Terra or Martini House? From the reports I've seen, it looks like Redd is the most well liked.
As for In-N-Out, we're going there knowing exactly what to expect, just a fast food joint. I'm mostly interested in trying it since Californians are always talking about it, and I'd like to see how it compares to the Shake Shack in NYC. It's been a while since I've had a Shack burger though, since the lines are usually hilarious during peak times (1 hour 30 min+).
Any suggestions for alternatives to ZuZu, Yank Sing, or Zuni Cafe? Or are those three decent choices?
And lastly, I'm not sure what to do for Tuesday dinner. I guess I could put The Slanted Door there, but if anyone has another idea, I'm definitely up for it.
Thanks for all the help!
re: hcbk0702
I would do Bar Tartine that night, since you have nothing in the Mission and I love the food there, or you could stick with Slanted Door. FYI, for Chez Panisse, call one month to the day in advance for reservations. The rest of these places you can get reservations on Open Table, but you can also call the restaurant directly if they don't have a time that works for you.
re: hcbk0702
ZuZu Yank Sing and Zuni are all "decent choices." I will give you the standard Yank Sing caveat that (1) it's not traditional dim sum but rather more modern/"nouvelle" dim sum, and (2) it's expensive. Figure $35 per person (or more, depending on how many of their "specials" you order).
re: Ruth Lafler
Yank Sing has all the traditional dim sum items in addition to more original dim sum and traditional dishes not usually served as dim sum (like Peking duck). Most of the items I usually order you find at most dim sum places:
steamed Chinese broccoli - traditional
sticky rice in lotus leaf - traditional
turnip cake - traditional
taro dumplings - traditional
cheung fun (soft rice noodle rolls) - traditional
chicken-mushroom fun gwor - ? not sure
mushroom caps stuffed with pork and tarragon - original
roast eggplant - not common as a dim sum item
re: Robert Lauriston
Yeah, but no one (except, apparently, you) goes to Yank Sing for traditional dim sum -- that would be missing the whole point. You can round out your meal with those dishes, but it would be silly to focus on them if you're looking for one, great dim sum experience.
re: Ruth Lafler
I have to say, I know lots of people who go to Yank Sing for traditional dim sum. Maybe that's silly and missing the point, but it's full of people for lunch who are having and enjoying the traditional items.
re: JasmineG
I know our family and friends go there for the traditional items but also enjoy their variations or creations. Their service cannot be denied, simply the best, and yes, it'll cost you.
re: hcbk0702
I wouldn't necessarily do Ad Hoc unless you check the menu ahead of time, and you like what's being offered (maybe make dual reservations and cancel one at the last minute). No real need to go to Bouchon, but you can check out the bakery next door for some on the road treats. If you have time to drive to Healdsburg, I would highly recommend Cyrus (amazing food and value). In SF, I think you should consider Ame, exemplary of new american fusion. also I second Zuni, Bar Tartine, Coi. Not a fan of Slanted Door. I think you will enjoy your food trip!
re: ankimo
In SF, I think you should consider Ame, exemplary of new american fusion. Zuni for the chicken, Bar Tartine for the porkbelly, Ubuntu for the cauliflower, Coi since it sounds like you like more unusual fare.
Ubuntu is in the City of Napa.
OP already knew that.
re: ankimo
One part of the fun at Ad Hoc is to be open minded and to be willing to eat what they serve that night. I love just walking in, not knowing what I am going to be served, before I am there. I have so far not had a single disappointing dinner there (our first visit to Ad Hoc was in June last year) and we just came back from California (to NYC) and we loved AD Hoc again.
It is also good to know that Ad Hoc does have some fish reserved for diners who do not eat red meat or fowl. My husband does not, so he always gets fish there. It has been excellent.
We were disappointed with Bouchon. It used to be so good: it used to be much "more" than just another bistro. No more.
Personally, I think it is very selfish to make dual reservations and then cancel at the last minute on a whim. You are not the only person out there trying to make dinner plans, ankimo. Be considerate.
re: hcbk0702
I wouldn't do The French Laundry and Ubuntu on the same day, even if Ubuntu is veggie. It will be sort of a wasted trip. The most you'll probably want to eat is something simple like pho, soba, tapas or a salad around 8 p.m....maybe split a burger later, later on. I'd do Slanted Door for dinner Tuesday.
re: ML8000
I agree that I would do Slanted Door on Tuesday.
re: ML8000
A couple of the small dishes at Ubuntu -- the cauliflower, the almonds, the beets -- might be perfect after the French Laundry.
re: maria lorraine
That makes sense. I still contend it would be sort of a wasted trip not getting the full experience but the quality is there. I'd make the reservation later, like 8 or 9.
re: hcbk0702
I'm not at all a fan of Zuzu. Much better options available.
And, I'd place both Terra and Martini House above Redd.
Oh - In 'n' Out Burger is fun. Do it! There's this special lingo you can use when you order...here, check it out -- you can order something "animal style":
re: hcbk0702
Zuni is more than decent, IMO, but I am not sure I would do it on the same day as Chez Panisse; for me it would be too heavy on the California influence, and too much time sitting in restaurants when there is a city to explore (both tend to be somewhere to linger over a multi course meal that is served in a leisurely fashion)....what about Zuni for dinner Tuesday? You could leave your lunch open for exploring based on where you happen to be in the City when you got hungry on Thursday.
Another possibility would be to try La Ciccia for dinner Tuesday night, especially if Sardinian food isn't that common in NY, and particularly if you will have access to a car. It is definitely a different vibe and food style than anything else on your list. I'd suggest Incanto also, but it is closed Tuesdays, IIRC.
Adding some links
Zuni Cafe
1658 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
La Ciccia
291 30th Street, San Francisco, CA 94131
Yank Sing Banquet & Catering
101 Spear St, San Francisco, CA 94105
Chez Panisse
1517 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94709
re: susancinsf
Another possibility would be to try La Ciccia for dinner Tuesday night, especially if Sardinian food isn't that common in NY
Based on a recent Manhattan thread you have a good point.
re: hcbk0702
I have done the lunch at FL -- I seriously could not eat until the next morning. I would be REALLY surprised if you wanted anything that evening other than some fruit and/or cheese that evening. I would replace Monday's Redd with Ubuntu (since Ubuntu is not open for lunch right now). Redd will be too similar in technique and sentiments with FL (but not quality). Ubuntu is remarkably different.
Lunch at French Laundry won't end until around 4:30 or 5:00. You won't be hungry for a major meal. You could always go to Bouchon and have some oysters around 10 pm.
Without a doubt, In-n-Out over Taylor's. In fact, Thomas Keller, famed chef of The French Laundry and Ad Hoc, loves In-n-Out Burgers.
Here's his actual statement from a magazine interview:
I really respect a company that holds its ground when there is so much pressure to follow the "what's next, what's new" trend. In-N-Out's quality lies in the simplicity of what it promises and delivers. To be able to do something over and over with integrity and excellence, even if it is fast food, is something to be truly admired.
re: dandear99
Keller didn't express an opinion about the burgers, he just said he respects the company. That sounds like he's speaking as a businessman, not a consumer.
re: Robert Lauriston
I've seen him eat there. I can attest that he likes the burgers...
re: Carrie 218
Keller has talked about the burgers and fries and how much he loves the place in several interviews.
re: Carrie 218
Does he eat the fries? Their crude and ill-conceived cooking method pretty much guarantees they come out mealy.
re: Robert Lauriston
I've seen him eat fries, yes.
re: Robert Lauriston
you can ask for them "extra crispy". a secret that's not on their secret menu. that makes them better but burgers are still their strong suit.
re: cing2x
You can also ask for them "well done".
re: Robert Lauriston
It's pretty well documented Keller is an In-n-Out fan. Ad Hoc was suppose to be the interim place holder for Bottles and Burgers, his interpretation of InO of sorts. AH did too well to turn into a burger joint.
Thanks SF Chowhounders! Here's what I have now:
Saturday, August 23
Dinner – *Need something in SF Chinatown*
More authentic Chinese food preferred
Sunday, August 24
Lunch – The French Laundry
Dinner – Ubuntu
Monday, August 25
Lunch – ZuZu
Dinner – Ad Hoc
Tuesday, August 26
Lunch – In-N-Out
Dinner – Bar Tartine
Wednesday, August 27
Lunch – Yank Sing
Dinner – Aziza
Thursday, August 28
Lunch – Monterey Bay Aquarium (probably just the cafeteria there)
Dinner – *Need something in Monterey Bay*
Friday, August 29
Lunch – Zuni Cafe
Dinner – Chez Panisse
Help filling in the blanks would be greatly appreciated.
Also, are there any thoughts on the Cafe vs. Downstairs @ Chez Panisse? The food budget is already pretty enormous, so I was leaning towards the Cafe. If the more formal room is categorically better though, we can squeeze it in.
re: hcbk0702
Looks good. For Chinese in Chinatown, you should go to Jai Yun. It's not like anyplace in NY.
For Monterey, see the Califronia board, lots of discussion there:
Jai Yun
680 Clay St, San Francisco, CA 94111
re: hcbk0702
Beating Dead Horse: You are not going to want to eat at Ubuntu after lunch at The French Laundry. You will be WAY too full.
re: Carrie 218
The seasonal salads at Ubuntu seem like exactly the sort of thing that might make a nice light dinner after four hours of gavage at French Laundry.
re: Robert Lauriston
I kind of agree on the being too full thing, although of any place to eat later, Ubuntu is a good choice, as there are light things on the menu, but their dishes are so good, I'd rather just go when I could try a wide selection.
If you're afraid that you'll be hungry later, I would head to Oxbow at some point, and pick up some pate's and charcuterie at the Fatted Calf, and maybe some cheese at the wine merchant. After the French laundry head to bouchon bakery and pick up some bread, and then just plan on having a mid-night snack.
re: Piperdown
Good comment.
Though I would add that that where you're staying (hotel or otherwise) will determine your driving choreography after your FL meal.
IF you're staying in Yountville or the city of Napa, I'd definitely pop down Washington Street in Yountville and go to Bouchon bakery for bread (it's maybe four blocks), and then head south into the city of Napa to Oxbow.or Fatted Calf or Whole Foods for some gourmet munching snacks.
If, however, you are staying north of Yountville, I'd stop at Bouchon bakery, but then head north to Oakville Grocery in Oakville, Dean & Deluca in St. Helena, or Sunshine Market in St. Helena. Bouchon bread is carried at all three of these locations, I believe. Sunshine Market has Grace, Acme, Bouchon, Artisan, and many other artisan bread brands. Check the hours of all these places to make sure you won't be driving for naught. Good luck.
Where are you staying, hcbk0702? Any wineries while you're in Napa Valley?
re: maria lorraine
We'll be staying in Napa (or very near it). Ubuntu is scheduled for dinner after TFL because that's the only time it'll fit; if we end up being too full (I'm almost positive we won't =P) we'll just have to scratch Ubuntu entirely.
We will be visiting wineries and I'm in the middle of planning that out, so nothing concrete on that front yet, but it'll probably be limited to Napa Valley. Heading to local markets also sounds like a great idea, and we'll probably do that.
And if anyone wants to chime in on the Cafe vs. Downstairs @ Chez Panisse, that would be helpful. =)
re: hcbk0702
Chez Panisse upstairs or downstairs is an oft-discussed topic on this board. Any specific questions after reading the threads?
re: hcbk0702
chezpanisse.com has a sample dinner menu for upstairs and a week of menus for downstairs. Compare them and see which appeals most. More discussion:
re: hcbk0702
Another poster is right; you must get tickets for Alcatraz WAY ahead of time. Try charging them on the internet. People are so disappointed to come here and not be able to go there. If you go to Duarte's in Pescadero, make a reservation when you leave Monterey, otherwise, it's a loooong wait. I only like the fish, soup and pie but that's enough reason to go.
re: walker
I've not had a wait at Duarte's when I've gone earlyish on a weekday, but I agree that a reservation is a good idea.
So here's the (hopefully!) pretty-much-finalized plan:
Saturday, August 23
Golden Gate Bridge area and SF Chinatown
DINNER – Jai Yun
Sunday, August 24
Drive up to Napa Valley, Robert Mondavi and Nickel & Nickel
LUNCH – The French Laundry
DINNER – Ubuntu (late or optional)
Monday, August 25
Joseph Phelps, Pride, Spring Mountain, and maybe Cain/Barnett
LUNCH – Picnic (maybe at Pride?)
DINNER – Ad Hoc
Tuesday, August 26
Hess Collection then back to SF for "touristy" stuff (*cue eyerolls*)
LUNCH – In-N-Out
DINNER – Bar Tartine
Wednesday, August 27
Alcatraz/harbor tour, Muir Woods, perhaps a museum
LUNCH – Yank Sing
DINNER – Aziza
Thursday, August 28
Early drive to Monterey Bay Aquarium, back to SF for dinner
LUNCH – MB Aquarium cafeteria <-- you never know, it could be the best of the trip!
DINNER – Slanted Door
Friday, August 29
Open/flexible day, TBD
LUNCH – Zuni Cafe
DINNER – Café @ Chez Panisse
We're wine country novices, so I think hitting a couple big, popular wineries (Mondavi, Hess) would be nice, even if locals don't particularly like them for being constantly swamped. Joseph Phelps, Nickel & Nickel, and the Spring Mountain wineries should be a nice change of pace from them. Any additional suggestions are welcomed.
re: hcbk0702
Mondavi is a great winery to visit if you're a novice. There tour, is probably the most detailed in explaining the wine making process. It's a bit long, but worth it to learn about what goes into the wine bottle. It's will help to appreciate the next one's you see.
re: Piperdown
No reason to start a new thread when I can pile onto this one...
My own honeymoon Napa/SF itinerary for the following week:
Monday, Sept. 1
DINNER - The Farm at Carneros Inn (we're staying there)
Tuesday, Sept. 2
LUNCH - At Carneros Inn (Boonfly or at pool)
DINNER - Either Go Fish or Martini Ranch. I know Martini Ranch has better reviews, but I like the idea of cutting into the California cuisine...
Wednesday, Sept. 3
LUNCH - Taylor's Refresher (I know, but I'm overruled on this one)
DINNER - Redd
Thursday, Sept. 4
DINNER - Ubutu
Friday, Sept. 5
LUNCH - Slanted Door
DINNER - Somewhere in the Mission. Any sugestions? We've been to Taqueria, and I'm thinking somewhere casual and fun but decent. Does Foreign Cinema fit the bill?
Saturday, Sept. 6
DINNER - Coi
Monday, Sept. 7
DINNER - Quince
Suggestions for lunch are appreciated, and Zuni Cafe may easily slot into one of those requirements.
re: brownhound
For your Friday dinner, I'd suggest Bar Tartine over Foreign Cinema. For Saturday lunch, defintely go to the Ferry Building Farmer's Market, walk around, graze, get picnic stuff from bakeries, cheese places, Fatted Calf, produce and have a picnic, or get prepared food from some of the good stands there. For Monday the 7th, Zuni at lunch is a great idea.
re: brownhound
I had a disappointing meal at Coi the other day. We ate in the bar, but ended up tasting most if not all of the dishes on the dining room menu (thanks to running into some friends of my dining companion who each had the entire tasting menu and were in a mood to share)...I hope to have time to post a full review in the next few days (or perhaps my dining companion will), but bottom line, I'd urge you reconsider that one. One aspect to keep in mind: the dining room is very dark, has no windows, and I found it to be claustrophobic even though a.) I just peeked in and b) I am not prone to claustrophobia! Moreover, because you can order anything off of the dining room menu in the (much more pleasant, though certainly not glamorous) bar, and tasting servings (same size as on the tasting menu) are $12 a plate, you can pick and choose the items you want to try and get plenty of food for quite a bit less (as much as 50% less depending on what you order) in the bar than if you order the full tasting menu (which is the only option if you choose the dining room).
Service was mediocre at best, in addition (actually, inconsistent might be a better description). Definitely not somewhere I'd go for a honeymoon meal, but if I did go, I'd eat in the bar.
I guess Foreign Cinema fits your casual and fun but decent bill (I find it very hard to judge what others would find fun) but I'd much rather go to La Ciccia, which will be the same price or a little less for dinner than FC. (In SF most restaurants are casual, but few are cheap. Heck, we were in jeans in COI and felt perfectly comfortable.) Range in the Mission is also casual, and food is better than FC, imo, but it isn't cheap either. Bar Tartine is also a good suggestion.
I agree that Zuni would be a good lunch option Monday, and that you should go to the FB on Saturday.
Zuni Cafe
1658 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
373 Broadway, San Francisco, CA 94133
842 Valencia Street, San Francisco, CA 94110
Quince Restaurant
470 Pacific Av, San Francisco, CA 94133
re: susancinsf
If the OP clicks on the COI link you provided, there are other reviews. People either seem to love it or hate it. After reading some of those very detailed reports you might consider if it is for you.
Thursday, Sept. 4
I'd have lunch at Oxbow Market in Napa. There are a number of restaurants there (including a Taylor's Refresher). There's a Venezuelan arepa place, Rotiserio which has killer chicken and porchetta, Fatted Calf which has some mighty fine porchetta also, The Cheese and Wine Merchant which has some nice dishes and very good wine. There are tables scattered around Oxbow including on an outdoor patio so you could order at various places and have a combination lunch.
I agree about going to the Ferry Plaza farmers market and eating at the various vendors in addition of the bonus of seeing a great farmers market.
You mean Sunday, Sept. 7, not Monday ... right?
That would be a nice time for Zuni.
re: rworange
FWIW, I can't say I hated COI.(though I might have if I had been forced to sit in that awful dining room for a three hour tasting menu!) In fact there were one or two dishes I really liked (the poached pheasant egg with morels was delicious, and the chocolate dessert was very good as well). Overall, however, I'd say it was underwhelming...
Lunch at Oxbow on the 4th is a good suggestion. (especially at Rotiserio)
re: brownhound
Agree with both Bar Tartine and La Ciccia as dinner options, and Saturday Ferry Building Farmer's Market and Zuni for lunch. Unfortunatley, Zuni's not open for lunch on Monday (Monday's a tough day for lunch in SF), but Slanted Door is, so maybe you can do SD on Monday, and Zuni on Friday. Or see if you can score a Saturday lunch reservation at SD, if you decide to go to the Farmer's Market (and you really should).
I know Taylor's has a lot of naysayers, but as someone who doesn't like to break too long from wine tasting to have a full sit-down lunch, I quite like being able to get an ahi burger, eat it outside, and head off to my next destination without losing too much time.
Along the same lines, I'd consider stopping in at Oxbow Public Market on your other Napa day - the porchetta sandwich at Rotiserie is a good way to prep your stomach for an afternoon of tasting. There's a Fatted Calf there as well (and a branch of Taylor's although I don't really see the point in eating anywhere besides the original).
re: hcbk0702
Robert Sinskey winery on Silverado (6320 Silverado) (just below the Yountville Cross Road) is really nice. Good wine, friendly people. They even allowed us to eat our picnic stuff on their wonderful patio (that has a great view).
re: hcbk0702
hmm...Are you an early riser>
Do you like or at least can tolerate big crowds?
The itinerary you picked is very heavy on places that will have crowds, and will require early starts on more than Thursday, to work. Keep in mind that you will be here the week before labor day weekend, which tends to a busy one for tourists...(and August in general should be quite busy in SF this year, since thanks to the dollar there are lots of European tourists this summer). Tourists do want to do tourists things, of course, so to some extent crowds are unavoidable, but you mention wanting to 'explore' and you aren't going to have very much time for that!
Its not chow related, but you might want to do more research on Muir Woods. The parking lot fills up very early every day of the week in summer, so you will need to take a shuttle unless you get a VERY early start and put it first on your list that day, which will add to the time to get there and see it. I don't see how, particularly given that, that you will be able to do an Alcatraz/Harbor Tour, Muir woods, and Yank Sing in one day and still have time and energy left to go to Aziza. (forget the museum). I am assuming you plan to disembark at Alcatraz (since just taking a tour that circles around it won't show you a heck of a lot more than you will have seen from the GG Bridge earlier in the week)., Alcatraz is definitely worth the actual visit (I think more so than Muir Woods, personally), but the visit takes several hours minimum and involves a fair amount of walking.
You will probably be able to take advantage of car pool lanes on Thursday, but you should still count on heavy traffic, sometimes very heavy traffic, and slow going both in and around Monterey and on your drive down and back from San Francisco, and a long wait to get into the Aquarium unless you buy tickets in advance, become a member, or go quite early (If I was going for the day to go to the Aquarium and had to be back for a dinner reservation, I'd leave SF at seven am at the *very* latest on a weekday). Also be aware that unless you eat at an off hour there will be a crowd and quite possibly a wait/line at the Cafeteria. I think(?) you can make a reservation at the full restaurant if it is open for lunch, you might want to look into that. Food is better anyway, though neither is great or terrible. However, unless I had a very late reservation at Slanted Door I am not sure I'd be in any rush to hurry back from Monterey to go there. Have you considered having dinner somewhere on the peninsula on your way home, or is your heart set on Slanted Door?
In that regard, keep in mind that many of the food shops in the Ferry Building close early (I was there yesterday and at seven pm most were closed or closing), so if you want to see them you'd need to leave Monterey early in order to have time to check them out before dinner at Slanted Door. (or go some other day).
Along the same lines, two wineries before French Laundry sounds like too much to me, especially since you have to factor in the time to drive up from SF....After the FL, if everything I've heard is true, you will probably just want to collapse and take a long, nice nap...
re: susancinsf
These are all really really good points -- You may not have time for the wineries after lunch at French Laundry (which will probably last until 3pm), and if you do, it will be one winery at the most. You are absolutely not going to have time for your itenerary on Wednesday, that is way way too much to fit in in one day, especially since none of the destinations are particularly near each other (and none are near any of the restaurants on your list). I would pick one of those things to focus on, otherwise you absolutely won't be able to fit in all of the food that you have planned. You could also schedule your In N Out lunch for Wednesday instead and eat that at the wharf before you leave for Alcatraz (you have to get tickets in advance, fyi) so that will make scheduling easier, and have Yank Sing on Tuesday late when you get back from Napa.
re: susancinsf
I don't know ... I went out to dinner at Bizou after my French Laundry lunch ... but tha t was mainly because I needed to eat something that actually tasted good.
If you do the Alcatraz tour do that. As Susan mentioned, the tour itself is worthwhile.PLEASE do not take the Bay cruises ... it is amazing how they can make a trip on the bay unenjoyable ... corny jokes, misinformation, and every hokey San Francisco song BLARING ... San Francisco, open your Golden Gate ... California here I come ...
If you want to just cruise the bay take one of the commuter ferries to Sausalito or Tiburon. I'd go for Tiburon since it is a nicer Ferry and there are some cute shops and better restaurants in Tiburon. They are MUCH less expensive too.
I still ask you to consider In-N-Out on your drive to Monterrey. There is one not too far from Monterrey and right off a highway exit. Maybe instead of lunch at the Aquarium. It's up to you, but you are really wasting a good opportunity to have a good lunch in SF in exchange for marginally better than McDonald's fast food.
Susan is right about that drive to and from Monterrey. I hope if you do that your reservation at Slanted Door is late. I'd probably take route 1 back home as that traffic on 101 is brutal at rush hour. THere are three points where you just sit... and sit ... and sit.
re: rworange
Unfortunately, traffic through Santa Cruz makes 1 almost as bad as 101 in places (and with two of them they will be able to use a car pool lane if it is 3 to 7 pm)....but basically, you and I are on the same page: if it were me, I'd consider driving up 1 for the drive, perhaps timing it to be somewhere near one of the San Mateo beaches at sunset (waayyyy prettier than the view from Slanted Door), and have dinner at Duarte's, (no view at Duarte's, just to be clear) and do Slanted Door some other time, or skip it all together. Or, if wanted Vietnamese food, take 101 and check out one of the options on the Peninsula....
I can't remember where the In N Out near Monterey is, but I do know that it is no where near the Aquarium, which means that it wouldn't be a good lunch option that day (because of cost and difficult parking, one is NOT going to want to drive somewhere for lunch). I actually think having lunch at the Aquarium makes sense, particularly for someone on a schedule, as long as one is realistic about the crowds. If OP has doubts, there are several fairly recent threads on the CA board about places to have lunch near the Aquarium.
re: susancinsf
Didn't mean near the Aquarium ... but in that southern area. There's one in Salinas off 101
Not as near-ish but on 101
Morgan Hill
And then from San Jose upward there are a zillion if you check the map
Hmmm ... either I gave this info to another poster with similar plans, the software ate my post, I forgot to hit the post button or I got deleted. These days I just chalk it up to the software eating it. Makes me more zen.
re: hcbk0702
hcbk0702--I do hope you get to eat at Ubuntu. It's very unique and very delicious!
Thanks for all the advice, it's immensely helpful! =)
Here's what I have right now:
Saturday, August 23
Arrive in San Francisco in the afternoon
Golden Gate Bridge area and SF Chinatown
Dinner – Jai Yun
Sunday, August 24
Drive up to Napa Valley in the morning
Lunch – The French Laundry @ 11 AM
Robert Mondavi Winery, Kalon tour and tasting @ 4 PM
Dinner – Ubuntu @ 8:30 PM
Monday, August 25
Pick up picnic supplies in the morning from local markets
Pride Mountain Vineyard tour and tasting @ 10 AM
Lunch – A picnic @ Pride
Spring Mountain Vineyard tour and tasting @ 2 PM
Joseph Phelps seminar (possibly)
Dinner – Ad Hoc @ 6 PM or past 8 PM
Tuesday, August 26
Hess Collection @ 10 AM
Lunch – In-N-Out or ZuZu or something else
Drive back to San Francisco, general sightseeing
Dinner – Bar Tartine @ 6:15 PM
Wednesday, August 27
Muir Woods in the early morning
Lunch – Yank Sing
Alcatraz cruise @ 2:50 PM (purchasing tickets online soon)
Dinner – Aziza @ 7:15 PM
Thursday, August 28
Very early drive to Monterey Bay Aquarium (also online tickets)
Lunch – Monterey Bay Aquarium cafeteria (most likely)
Drive back to San Francisco in the afternoon
Dinner – Slanted Door @ 8:30 PM (or perhaps somewhere in Monterey)
Friday, August 29
Open day, TBD
Lunch – Zuni Café
Dinner – Chez Panisse, Café
I already have reservations set for most of the restaurants (Zuni Cafe and Chez Panisse don't let you reserve more than a month in advance) and all the wineries we're definitely visiting. The only thing left is purchasing online tickets for the Alcatraz cruise and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. I didn't plan on doing a cruise that just goes around the SF harbor. There are countless boat tours around Manhattan too, and they seem to be pretty dreadful.
There's no issue with getting started early in the morning; we can easily be out the door before 7 AM or earlier if we need to.
Of all the restaurants I've picked, Slanted Door is probably the least interesting to me, which is why I've scheduled it on the aquarium day. If getting back to SF will be too hectic, we'll probably just eat dinner somewhere in Monterey. Hopefully there won't be TOO much traffic. =X
re: hcbk0702
Most people like Slanted Door A LOT and often make return visits. I've enjoyed it every time I've been. Their fish is very fresh and I love the shaking beef (cubes of fillet) I always have to order the fried Imperial Rolls, others prefer the summer rolls. (not fried)
re: hcbk0702
If you really want to go to Yank Sking, I'd schedule it for a different day, because going from Muir Woods in the morning to an Alcatraz tour in the afternoon will give you very little time for Yank Sing, and you'll likely feel pretty rushed. Or you could move Alcatraz to Friday after Zuni.
re: JasmineG
I agree Wed 27th has too much going on. But, if driving a car, Friday to lunch at Zuni, then Alcatraz, then driving in Friday rush to Berkeley is stressful. What I would do Wed is skip Muir Woods and do Alcatraz first trip of the morning, lunch and dinner as planned. In between lunch and dinner you can go to DeYoung Museum (in Golden Gate Park) or Legion of Honor (my preference) and a walk behind along ocean and golf course and you're already in the Richmond district which is where Aziza is.
If you REALLY want to do Muir Woods, go Friday morning early, lunch at Zuni then drive straight to Berkeley and walk around there until your dinner at Chez Panisse Cafe. The Lawrence Hall of Science in Berkeley is a great place to visit.
re: walker
One of these options makes so much more sense. I think part of the problem is that Yank Sing is in the wrong part of town for that day, and isn't a sort of place you want to rush as was pointed out. You are basically all over town and beyond on Wednesday. Another option if you have time before Aziza (because you went to Alcatraz earlier in the day) is to explore the Richmond (a great chow neighborhood), or, if you like Tequila, spend a bit of time at Tommy's across the street and up a block from Aziza (don't think of eating there, but the tequila selection is probably world class. Only problem is that Aziza's cocktails are also wonderful and you will have a car....but a good option if only one of you likes to drink and the other is willing to drive! :-)).
Another option is to skip Zuni and do Yank Sing the morning before Chez Panisse. I realize that Zuni is considered very SF, but it is also similar in style to CP Cafe (in my opinion)...or, since you say the Slanted Door is of less interest, do Zuni late the Monterey night. (say around nine pm).
My concern when people try and cram everything in to one trip is that they will just wear themselves out, as a result the food won't taste as good, and they wont be in as big a hurry to come back and will wonder what the big deal is.... One of San Francisco's biggest charms is the fact that it is a great town for walking and exploring some of the more off beat spots (including some great Chow spots) and you have very little time for that. But that's just me, and then I wouldn't even consider a schedule that included a winery tasting and tour within two hours of finishing a meal at French Laundry. So, hopefully you are into crowds, not prone to stress when driving around a strange city, and in shape for this marathon. Have fun and do report back!
re: susancinsf
The last time I went to Tommy's (I was taking friends who'd never been), it was only like a Tues. night and it was so packed and LOUD. We pushed our way in, got to the bar area (we were only going to have Margaritas and then go eat tacos at La Taqueria) and it was several people deep. We just looked at each other and knew we had to leave, no way could we have had any kind of conversation there, no place to sit. (We went for tacos, then had the Margaritas at Tres Agaves -- I'll never again try for Tommy's.)
re: walker
last time I went, I took an out of town visitor (before dinner at Aziza), and it was one of the highlights of the visit for her. She liked the tequila tasting waayyy more than the ferry building! :-) When we first got there it was packed, but they encouraged us to sit at a table in the restaurant at the edge of the bar, even though we told them we only wanted to drink. Then, the server promised to hold bar seats for us so we could move as soon as they became available, and he was true to his word!
It seemed to empty out towards the end of our time there, so maybe it varies.
re: hcbk0702
I agree (1) that's a lot of driving, (2) don't do Zuni and Chez Panisse on the same day. I like the idea of Muir Woods early in the morning, though -- you'll be going against the commute, and if you get there when it opens at 8 a.m. it probably won't be as hideously crowded, especially if you can beat the tour buses. Grab some nice pastries and have breakfast among the (probably fog-shrouded) redwoods.
Although I agree with a lot of the other suggestions (Clement St., Lawrence Hall of Science, etc.), if you're tired of tweaking your itinerary, the simplest change I'd make would be to swap Zuni and Yank Sing. Come back from Muir Woods, have an early lunch at Zuni, park your car somewhere in that area (or at your hotel) and then take public transit (the F line street car) if you have time, or a cab if you don't, to the wharf for Alacatraz. Alternatively, stop for lunch in Sausalito (Fish. maybe?) and take the ferry over (and back) to the wharf to catch your Alcatraz trip. That's a lot of ferry rides, but I personally never get tired of the views on the Bay.
Oh, and a winery tour after French Laundry? You're crazy! If you must schedule one for that day, schedule your lowest priority one so you won't mind cancelling if you change your mind.
re: Ruth Lafler
FWIW, weighing in as a repeat visitor to San Francisco who LOVES a packed schedule and is a slave driver to the mellower SO (poor devil) -- the posters above are not exaggerating. Even your revised itinerary would be challenging for me :-). If you can build in a bit more flex time, you will be able to take in the experience that is SF, rather than taking pictures to look at when you're back at home, which is a bit what we did the first time we came. Odds are you will return again and again to catch the places you don't have room for this time -- we sure did, and are already looking forward to our next trip in late fall! Best of luck and have a wonderful time; I'm green with envy.
re: grayelf
Very good point. bobpantzer, take this advice seriously. The SF Bay Area is not big but its crowded and traffic crossing and up-down the bay is quite daunting for the locals and could be absolute pain for visitors. Plan your trip based on time and distance to-from locations can provide your better touring experience and fun.
re: hcbk0702
Hi there! I'm so sorry that I am replying late, but I just joined, and really enjoyed this thread!
I love all of your mad foodie planning skills, and you are going to have a fabulous time here in SF!
Just a few thoughts from what I've seen so far:
In-N-Out is definitely different from Shake Shack. I love both, but for different reasons. Be sure to read up on the "secret menu" items from InNOut.
You will be cutting it close to get from Fisherman's Wharf area to Aziza on Wednesday, but it will be worth it! Have the lavender infused cocktail...yummy!
My favorite quick place to eat in Monterey is the Turtle Bay. It is nothing fancy, but has decent seafood/rice bowls.
If you have an open day on the 29th, you should definitely check out some of the Slow Food events, especially since you will be going to Chez Panisse later in the evening! http://slowfoodnation.org/
Enjoy your time here!!!


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3 people found this helpful
"Grammarly is golden "
I have been working at Grammarly full-time (less than an year)
The lines between work and play become blurred when you find yourself working with a team that knows how to do both, with passion. For the past few months at Grammarly, I've worked harder than I've ever worked, but never had so much fun in the process!
The hours are long. But, if building a consumer product company were easy, everyone would do it!
4 Other Employee Reviews for Grammarly (View Most Recent)Sort: Rating Date
1 person found this helpful
"Grammarly truly puts its people first "
- Comp & Benefits
- Work/Life Balance
- Senior Management
- Culture & Values
- Career Opportunities
I have been working at Grammarly full-time (more than an year)Pros
Grammarly provides an environment that enables you to maximize your strengths, pursue your passions and develop intellectually, all while building a fantastic product that noticeably improves people's lives.
Here, you find yourself amongst creative, dedicated individuals, who all work tirelessly in pursuit of our common mission -- perfecting written English for the 1b+ English writers around the world!Cons
You will sometimes find yourself working late into the evening, or over the weekend, but your effort is always widely recognized and rewardedRecommendsPositive Outlook
1 person found this helpful
"Successful Silicon Valley Startup Dedicated to Perfecting Written English "
- Comp & Benefits
- Work/Life Balance
- Senior Management
- Culture & Values
- Career Opportunities
I have been working at Grammarly full-time (less than an year)Pros
Grammarly has ambitious plans to perfect all written English for the world's 1+ billion English speakers. It is a small, but exceptional, team with a passion for life and language, impeccable technical skills, and tremendous drive. Our San Francisco headquarters is centrally located in a shared office space replete with startups, and our vacation plan and benefits are very competitive.Cons
Growing companies typically experience "growing pains," but Grammarly seems to defy this precedent. The management team is cohesive and open to feedback, but with a very clear vision for the company's future. As a result, all team members work long hours (with pleasure!) to realize these impressive goals. We truly feel like we are a part of something special.Advice to ManagementAdvice
Keep up the great work! It is really special to work at a company where you feel like your ideas are heard and appreciated. Grammarly's management team truly knows what they are doing. They get along great and encourage new ideas and processes.RecommendsPositive Outlook


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