'Gourmet Kitchen,' SoMa StrEat, Ghirardelli, Michael Minas

Chinatown Breakfast

What a wonderful Monday. F and I hit so many neighborhoods today as we did a bit of shopping. We started the morning in Chinatown and stopped at a random shop to buy pork buns for breakfast. The window read 'Gourmet Kitchen,' but I'm not sure if that was actually it's name. Walking downtown with a short stop in Jamba Juice, we browsed a lot of the area stores before heading to SoMa  (neighborhood meaning "South of Market") to another shopping area.

Hawaiian - Food Trucks

All shopped out, SoMa StrEat Food Trucks, conveniently alongside the bus stop, made for a perfect lunch spot on such a sunny, gorgeous day in the city. There are numerous food truck locations all over the city, but this one is unique in that it's open daily and has a permanent location complete with seating, tvs, and a beer/wine selling permit (So hard not to have a glass of sangria yesterday! ). The trucks change each day, but your options are always numerous and your bound to find something that appeals to your taste.

Downtown Dessert

To cool down a warm afternoon, we shared a "World Famous" hot fudge sundae at Ghiradelli's. Yum. Do it.

Finally we dined at Michael Mina's. Can't even describe this place properly. Gorgeous dining room that boasts high ceilings and great location in the Financial District. Course after course passed each taste test. My favorites were the Springtime in the Garden salad, Alaskan Halibut, and Red velvet Cake dessert. Their tasting menu would be an event: dueling courses. They even have a dessert tasting menu, so if you know me at all, I'll be back just for that. The halibut arrived as a two part dish. It's plate allowed the sauce, poured on top tableside, to run down into the bowl below, soaking a surprise lobster dish underneath. Speaking if their dishes, each one is hand made by four potters. Pretty cool. I sadly don't have any pictures because I didn't want to look like a complete tourist or something.

Great Monday. Seems to be a trend lately that I could get used to!

Tequila, Urban Flow Yoga

If you couldn't tell by my previous post, I was a bit stressed out yesterday - just with a lot on my mind. No better way to fix stress than with yoga and tequila, although after today, I wouldn't recommend them together. (Not that I would have recommended them together before...)

Yoga was in my after-work plan for the day. Tequila snuck its way in there. A coworker from another department invited me for a happy hour drink, and I couldn't refuse. After all, I missed his birthday celebrations a few weeks ago! Anyways, three of us ended up taking a shot (okay two shots) of tequila after work. I tried to balance out out with a side of asparagus, but I already knew that I was about to make yoga all the more difficult.

Yoga, something I mocked in high school but grew to love in college, frequently helps me with stress and to relax. I don't consistently practice, but still feel pretty attached to the work outs. I knew last night that yoga would be the perfect medicine for my anxiety. Urban Flow never disappoints. Given, this was only my second visit, it's the type of studio that reassures you that each session will be as great or greater than the previous. Each class cranks up the heat, they have tons of windows letting the sun shine through, and it is an overall calming, warm environment. Both teachers I've had were very in tune with Bhakti Flow, oneness with nature, and all that jazz, encouraging the dedication of your practice to another. Brad, today's instructor, is probably the best I've ever had in helping with my form (or maybe my form needed extra help today due to the tequila). He frequently circulated the room and stopped at almost each student to correct their form in the most positive and encouraging manner. He actually assisted me in holding a pose for a full ten seconds, which is a long time if you've ever taken a class. It felt amazing to have proper form and push myself when I wouldn't have been able to hold it without him. Urban Flow is unique in that it is by donation, and no donation is too small. Note: if you are paying by credit card, it is minimum of $16.

Now that I've sweat out the tequila, it's time for chicken pad Thai, no tofu. These people recognize me from coming here so much. Happy Saturday night :)

Emotional Update, Teach Me How To Bucky

If I have any consistent readers out there, you may or may not have noticed that my posts arrive a bit more sporadically and fewer per week than in the past. In spite of thinking this blog had changed me, my introvert personality has overpowered me in the past week or two. In fact, I don't want to lose my introverted side: going to the movies alone or reading/relaxing at home are some of the best ways for me to reenergize. After weeks of trying new experiences nearly every day, I reached a point where I could not sit at home contently, and I realized that that is an important part of life that I need to not lose: being content on my own.

In addition to holding onto that key part of my life, I think in attempting to try out something new nearly every day causes me to put other very important aspects of my life on the sidelines or to the back of my mind. Religion would be the biggest impacted aspect. Another - trying to fill my schedule to the brim, and in doing so, not allowing for other priorities a chance to pencil themselves into it. Although it's unintentional, for me it's also unacceptable and not who I am. On top of everything, I'm spending way more money than I should, when normally I'm an excellent saver.

This is not to say I am going to stop seeking new experiences and living life; this is solely a reality check that I need to manage my priorities and get back on track. Perhaps, toning posts down to twice a week would be a good compromise. (Or at least new activity posts, and other days I can post dorky youtube videos that made me laugh). Also need to really focus on my training! After 3 days of being more or less MIA from training, I made it back on tonight :)

Also - I'm missing home a little bit today, but received a package from one of my old roommate in Madison! Perfect timing. Thought I'd share this video because I love me some Bucky! So proud of our boys getting drafted!

Fleet Feet, San Jose Sharks

I've needed to buy new running shoes for quite some time, and today was the day! I drove to Fleet Feet and asked for assistance and a fitting. The guy helping me knew what he was talking about and runs himself. He measured my foot and arch, both while i was sitting and standing, before watching me walk to determine which type of support I need. He then brought out three brands and watched me run in each pair. I narrowed my choice down to two: Addidas or New Balance. He relaced one of each brand and told me to take a jog down the block to see how they feel. The whole time he asked questions about how they felt and if there was anything that stood out to me with each shoe.

Finally, New Balance won the show down. My old shoes are New Balance, so the materials felt familiar and comfortable. I liked the colors and style the best too, which is obviously the most important detail of all. My helper gave me a couple training tips before sending me out the door with my new kicks. Great experience - I'll definitely go back there for future fittings or basically any running gear.

Side note of the day: I stopped at Whole Foods to grab lunch (I love love love their mango quinoa salad and salad bar in general). Checking out with my salad and Kombucha, a worker walked me out and invited me to eat my salad with him on his break. Very flattering, but no thank you, although you kind of made my day!

Next stop of the day: Union Square. And later, SJ Sharks. I allowed the sun to soak in for an hour in Union Square before bar hoping towards the Caltrain station with a friend. We bought a few beverages and snacks to pregame on the train. That was another new experience - Caltrain. In my mind I'd imagined it to be more like the trains in Spain where you'd sit two by two, facing another couple with a table in between. This felt more like a commuter train, where some even had to stand for several stops before there were enough seats (although we went right at the end of the work day). We finally arrived in San Jose; the HP Pavillion is only a parking lot away from the Caltrain station, perfect transportation to a game. We bought some beverages to see the Sharks kick some Stars butt, 3-2, with two goals in the third period, pretty exciting! Such a fun time. No matter where you sit, you can see the action.

Best part of the night, balloon guys that made me a Bucky Badger on the train ride home! Badger for life. Real talk.

Scala's Bistro

I had a lunch meeting today at Scala's Bistro, located next to Sir Francis Drake hotel, practically on Union Square. I couldn't pull out my camera during this meeting, so unfortunately, I have no pictures. You'll just have to take my word for it and check it out yourself!

Very warm, clean feeling when walking in the door and the staff is friendly, but they don't over do it. I sat at the bar with a glass of water while waiting. Seated, both myself and my business companion attempted to eat fairly healthy; he is trying to become vegetarian. So, he informed the waitress that we would have a boring order: arugula salad for him, green strawberry salad for me, and asparagus to share. Everything tasted fresh and delicious. I've been craving asparagus for weeks, and this perfectly grilled dish did not disappoint with it's red, non-overpowering sauce.

After a productive and uplifting conversation, dessert menus arrived. He declined the menu and ordered for us his favorite option: Bostini Cream Pie. Excellent choice. Go try it for yourself.

I'd love to return to Scala's to try some of their main course and meaty dishes. I've been meaning to have dinner there for quite some time; this might be just the motivation I need to make a reservation!

Super Duper

Super Duper Burger is definitely not a new experience, but getting a milkshake in a non to-go glass is. Check that out...yum.

Nick Saban's Speech

Since I've been boring the past couple of days, enjoy this video that a friend shared with me on facebook a few days ago. Pretty good motivator. Self discipline is something with which I've always struggled.

"Discipline: Doing what you're supposed to do, when you're supposed to do it, the way it's supposed to get done"

"You are going suffer through one of two things in life: the pain of discipline, or the pain of disappointment."

"Your character is a accumulation of your thoughts, your habits, and your priorities on a day-to-day basis"

Strawberry Rhubarb Compote & GF Chocolate Cake, Spices II

I'm not sure I've ever made a cake before, at least not one that isn't pre mixed in a box. Yesterday, F and I made a gluten free chocolate cake and some strawberry-rhubarb compote to top it. Okay, let's be honest, he made it, but I kind of helped along the way. I'll have to look up what recipe he used later but here are instructions by pictures :)

For dinner, we ordered take out from Spices II, a Sichuan restaurant. I've never had Sichuan before, but the green beans, eggplant, chicken wings, and pork shoulder will be feeding me for a few days, and no complaints there!
                                   

Lady Foot Locker, Yoppi

Toppings Galore!

So, I need to buy new running shoes, badly. Niketown seemed like the natural choice to begin, but it was just my luck that they are under construction and closed today. Instead, an attempt at Lady Foot Locker at the mall proved to be just as unsuccessful of a venture. The store is lasted out nicely we a decent variety, but there is no easy I'm spending $100+ a pair of shoes when the sales person has no clue what they are talking about. She was very nice and could help me find a size, but her usefulness ended there. The store is fine if you know what you're looking for, but don't expect knowledgeable assistance.

The trip to the mall did, however, turn out to be worthwhile as F and I stopped at Yoppi to share a refreshing snack. He selected plain frozen yogurt and we topped it with fresh mangos, nuts, raspberry sauce, and dark chocolate.  We voted on next week's flavors before finding a good people watching spot in the mall to enjoy our concoction. Yum.

Oakland A's

It's a beautiful day for baseball! First A's game of the season of hopefully several to come. Happy Sunday :)

I love Elephants! Maybe that's why I love the A's too... :)

Jasper's Corner Tap

Brussels Sprout Chips

Dark, loud, and a somewhat confusing entrance to be seated by a hostess, I was not to optimistic about dinner last night after my first few steps in the door. C and I met at Jasper's for dinner and drinks after she'd had an extremely trying week and wanted to splurge on her diet. They placed us at a table with poor lighting, and although I have great eyesight, I struggled to read the menu. That's where negativity stops.

The server, dressed in jeans a plaid, was friendly and promptly brought us our strong drinks selected from their extensive list (Rolls Royce and Orchard Malt Mule) while we looked over the menu. They provide a separate sheet to order fries or poutine, which we declined as our meals both came with fries (awesome fruits btw). It was actually difficult for me to order, as I try to eat gluten free (although you'd never guess that based on my last few posts). Almost everything on the menu includes something breaded/pasta-esque. I chose the steak while C ordered a giant burger. We preceeded those with brussel sprout chips, buttery and delicious. Short and sweet dinner. I'd return for a happy hour as it was crowded and seems like the place to be!

Eats, Land's End Sunset

Not too much to report from today. Started the morning off right with steel cut oatmeal and pepper sausage from Eats, a breakfast joint on Clement Street. Everything on the menu looked and sounded delicious, as well as everything passing by. But in finally trying to eat healthy, I avoided all the gluten and practiced a little self control... for once.

After finally catching up on all the boring errands that I had put off from yesterday, I allowed myself to enjoy the clear skies and heat of the day, by sitting on the patio, lounging in the sunshine, allowing it to soak in while I napped. I made myself a healthy dinner before meeting up with my friend to go watch the sunset at Land's End.

Couple after couple pulled up in their cars and bikes and at end of their nightly walks to watch the sun sink down below the ocean. C and I felt a little out of place in this romantic setting, but regardless enjoyed watching the boats go by as the sun lowered deeper in the sky. We were fortunate to choose a night when the wind was only a soft breeze. Normally, for example yesterday when I was here, the wind is very strong in Land's End, and along the ocean in general. Tonight was the perfect night to catch up while taking in a proper West Coast sunset. Goodnight!

Pizzetta, B Star

What a way to return to the city. After feeling accomplished in my 4 mile run, I received a warm welcome before a long day of walking in the sun, good food, and relaxation. We ventured down to Land's End to look out over the ocean and see Sutro Baths, a sight I've seen more than a few times, but F had not.

Next, we leisurely made our way to Pizzetta, which opens at "noonish." It is a tiny pizza place on California and 23rd. I completely forgot to take a picture of this inside, literally 2 or 3 tables, a counter with the kitchen behind it, and the tiny office visible above the kitchen. I'll have to return to take pictures, as I can't do it's quaint atmosphere justice with my description. We sat in the sun at a table along the sidewalk. There are heat lamps above head that are calling my name to return for a glass of wine some evening in the near future. We ordered two pizzas to share: one with egg and sausage and the other with arugala and mascarpone. Delicious.

After more walking around the Inner Richmond, we passed the afternoon lazily. I had to babysit tonight, so we grabbed a quick,  happy hour bite to eat at B Star. Apparently, they are known for their Tea Leaf Salad, and now I know why. Amazing - dried shrimp, lentils, romaine, sauce, and more that I don't remember. We could easily have eaten two or three instead of splitting the one. Try it. We also ordered Lotus chips, which I really enjoyed, but F said could use more salt. Also tasted mango tuna tacos and satay with a coconut creamy sauce. Although they were satisfying, the salad was by far the best. I had eaten here once previously, downed the bass with a glass of wine while watching Karate Kid 2 at the bar. Today made for a second pleasant experience. Now I know why there is usually such a long line!

Since I really didn't do anything productive today, tomorrow is bound to be boring with errands. Cheers.

Chicago: Funeral, Pizza Rustica, Crepe Town

This weekend, my grandma's funeral took place in my home town in Illinois, West of Chicago. This was the first time I flew anywhere for a funeral, making it a new, bittersweet experience. My grandma lived a full, family filled life. I can only hope to love and laugh as much. Her service was beautiful and took place in the church where her and my grandpa married. In spite of the sadness of saying goodbye, the one bright side of a funeral, seeing the entire family and close friends, made the weekend a pleasant one. My aunts, uncles, cousins, brother, parents and I shared stories of growing up and sorted through old photo albums. I even met my cousin's daughter for the first time, as I've not been home since June.

Returning to Chicago a few hours early for my evening flight, I grabbed a drink, early dinner, and dessert with two of my closest friends from college, M and E. I hadn't seen my college roommate M in over two years, and the last time i saw E was when she saw me off to California one year ago. We all caught up and laughed over salads, wine, and flat bread pizza at Pizza Rustica. It's one of M's favorite places that she takes everyone who visits to eat. The food was great as well as the atmosphere. The only downside was our waiter who seemed confused the whole time and told us the 12-5pm menu wasn't available because the kitchen was too busy (it was 4pm and they weren't that busy). In the summer, M says they open the windows, have great patio seating, with lights strung across the sidewalk. Sounds inviting!

We headed across the street for dessert at Crepe Town. Great decision. We ordered a banana and hot caramel with vanilla ice cream as well as a strawberry custard crepe to share between the three of us. Delicious. Would definitely recommend it and return :)

Now I'm way too early for my flight and need to occupy myself with something. See you soon San Francisco!

Golden Gate Park: Ultimate Frisbee

It has been over a year since I last played ultimate frisbee. I played in a couple of recreational teams during my last summer living in Madison, WI and loved every second of it. In moving to San Francisco a year ago yesterday, finding pick up frisbee games has been on my to do list. I signed up for email notifications, but never made the time to attend. Tonight was the night! As nice as the people I met seem to be and for what a great work out you always get with ultimate, I can't believe i waited so long to play. I'm rusty and not in tip-top shape, but I made a solid dive catch and kept up on defence. It cost me a jammed pinky, from being super intense and an overall badass, which I now need to tape and ice. Worth it. Cheers! 

Cartoon Art Museum, Bar Tartine, Dolores Park

Real Talk

Here we are, first Tuesday of the month: free museum day! Today a friend and I checked out the Cartoon Art Museum. I was not expecting much, but was pleasantly surprised! Displays from different time period of various cartoons, books, and comic strips line the walls in the smaller sized, three section museum. My favorites were all of the cartoon art we know and love directed by Chuck Jones: Bugs Bunny, The Coyote and the Road Runner, the little alien helmet guy, etc... They even had an original script from one of the episodes which must have been Elmer Fudd's because all of his lines were marked. All ages stopped to watch cartoon episodes,  they just don't make them like they used to!

After stopping at the MoMA around the corner, which had slightly changed since my last visit, I enjoyed an extremely lazy afternoon before dinner.

         

      

A friend and I grabbed seats at the bar of a restaurant called Bar Tartine. Such a cool vibe from the overall atmosphere and staff. I have to mention our bar tender/server because she was absolutely adorable; black hair,  cat eye framed glasses with gold on the wings,  bright red lipstick and tights with Snow White's skin and hipster style. I mention this out of jealousy because I really don't have a style and she rocks hers. Anyways, the kitchen is open into the restaurant, So we could watch as they nearly prepared dish after dish.

Their menu is short and uses as much local and in season product as possible. We ordered four items to share: the halibut, pea and goat cheese dip, smoked potatoes, and blood sausage.  The halibut dish was so so,  the others were great. Blood sausage came nice and spicy;  I'd go back just to snack on the potatoes.

What better way to work of dinner than to take a walk to the top of Dolores Park for a foggy but beautiful city view, followed by playing on an "adult" playground. Swings, slides, the works :)

Sorry for a second late posting. Having too much fun to keep up!

Awesome...