My Noe Valley Fave, Pomelo

Photos by K. Mears

When Jay and I first moved to San Francisco friends welcomed us to the neighborhood by taking us to Pomelo. It's still one of our favorite spots, over a year later! We find ourselves going back to repeatedly (admittedly, at least once every two weeks).

Pomelo has a destination inspired menu with dishes like Banda Aceh (spicy indonesian street style noodles) and Havana (cuban style fried rice), that change based on the availability of local in-season produce.

I've tried about 60 percent of the dinner menu, but always coming back to the Aosta (baked polenta and  gourmet mushroom ragù with madeira and cream) and the San Marino (spring risotto with smoked trout, artichoke, fresh peas & asparagus). I've sampled the San Marino every season with many different veggies. It's perfect for a chilly San Francisco evening!

But my absolute favorite item (unfortunately not pictured), the dessert that keeps me coming back, is their chocolate hazelnut mousse. I realize it doesn't sound like much, but I would go as far to say that it is in my top 5 favorite desserts of all time. Yes, of all time!

Definitely put this cute and cozy restaurant on your list for your next city visit!