Sunny Morning at Zazie

Photos by K. Mears

Years ago my friend took me to Zazie for brunch when I was visiting San Francisco. When Jay and I moved to the city last year, I was thrilled to find the French bistro still thriving in picturesque Cole Valley. Now it's my turn to introduce Zazie to visitors! We headed there for brunch over the weekend with my brother, expecting the usual Sunday sidewalk wait. But luckily it was a sunny day so no harm! I try to taste different items on the menu but lately cannot get enough of the La Mer (poached egg with hand picked dungeness crab, green onions and avocado). On a sweet streak lately, Jay went for the French Toast Tahiti (challah stuffed with caramelized bananas and walnut). He said it was the best French toast he's ever had - you will have to try for yourself and decide!

Weekend Wishes

Photo by J. Mears

It's been a rainy few days here in San Francisco, but we may be in luck and have the sun peak out this weekend! This is great news, since my brother and father-in-law are here for a visit. I'm super excited to have them here! We will be out and about enjoying the city (on our list, a foodie adventure), which is much more fun when the weather is cooperative.

Have a wonderful weekend (and enjoy the Oscars on Sunday)!

Stay Warm, Drink Hot Chocolate

Image from ticketkitchen.com

Jay and I are big fans of hot chocolate, so I was delighted when I can across buzz (from Say Yes to Hoboken and Daily Candy) about a lovely hot chocolate company based here in San Francisco called The Ticket Kitchen. What makes them special? Well for starters, their signature hot chocolate on a stick! You simply stir the French chocolate block in steaming milk and voilà, tasty delicious hot chocolate! This will definitely be on my gift list for friends trying to stay warm in the Midwest, or perhaps a midwinter treat for me and Jay. It may snow in San Francisco for the first time in 35 years this week! It's going to be a tough one for me and my fellow weather wimps! Stay warm friends!

I Heart Michigan

Image from catstudio.com

Dear friends of ours gave us the cutest state dish towels from Catstudio last holiday. It's little reminder of our home state Michigan and our new home California! Each towel highlights special areas with fun illustrations marking locations such as the Golden Gate Bridge for California or Motown for Michigan. A great gift for friends that have recently moved cross country!

Giovanni's Pizza at Club Deluxe

Photos by K. Mears

Ever since I moved to San Francisco, I craved finding a cozy pizza place in which I could unwind with my friends. In Michigan, Amici's (The Living Room) was this place to me. My search was over pretty quickly as my friends immediately directed me to Giovanni's Pizza. Located in the jazz club, Club Deluxe, known for their freshly squeezed cocktails (might I suggest the greyhound or spa collins). I was a little hesitant but there was really no need to be. Within minutes of taking a seat you will be greeted by "mama", Giovanni's mother. She takes your order while Giovanni bakes his pizzas to perfection in the back kitchen. He has about 20-some pizza combinations to choose from - all made with fresh, quality ingredients - and plenty of veggie and non-veggie options. In fact, while we were there last he popped out because he needed a little more fresh basil for the night! My personal fave is the Rico-Tina (tomato, mozzarella, ricotta, spinach, Italian brandy sausage, basil and olive oil). Honestly, I could stop in for this pizza every week!

From Sweet to Savory at Bar Tartine

Photos by K. Mears

Jay and I, along with a few friends, headed to Bar Tartine over the weekend for brunch. We've heard nothing but praise about this restaurant located in The Mission and I must say their reputation held up to our critical taste buds. Jay ordered the walnut bread French toast, while I ordered the mushroom tartine, and we started with blue cheese stuffed dates. Delicious! If you are in the mood for a cozy brunch with good music (XX and Radiohead alternated the entire afternoon), Bar Tartine will quench your craving! It was a perfect way to spend a rainy grey San Francisco afternoon (the rain finally stopped yesterday)!

Weekend Wishes

Photo by J. Mears

Thank you friends for being so supportive of my blog launch this week! I hope you are enjoying the tidbits being shared. Coming up next week, dinner dilemmas and the Year of the Rabbit, stay tuned!

Have a wonderful weekend!