January food fete...
Dopo in Piedmont Avenue Oakland, Jan 31 with Betty and John. A seasonal menu, we tried the Antipasti platter for 3 -- a definitive foodie moment came with the scallop and garlic sausage. There was a collective yummm. The Barbera (from the affordable Italian wine selection) was enjoyable. Worthy of a third trip, if not to see what the Spring menu will bring. A peanut size restaurant, as described elsewhere, staff does not rush you off and service is not intrusive. Kitchen are Alums of Olivetto, for food afficionados provenance in Bay Area cuisine counts. Jojo, Barraka, Eccolo, Myth, see earlier field notes, were brought into dinner conversation -- typical of Bay Area food snobs/cognoscenti/foodies, talking about the next meal or recent finds.
Myth in the Jackson square area of San Francisco, Jan 14, with Bill, Francesca and Steve. Large dining room with many booths, allows for leisured pace with cocktails, appetizer, entree, dessert --no one peering over your shoulder with the slight hint of hmmm have they asks for the bill? The scallops were outstanding, the sweet breads a house speciality was overpowered by the garlic breading, but the New Zealand lamb delectable . Wine selection spare and well thought out to pair with the menu selections. Great place to spend time with dear friends. Worth a return trip, hopefully they've dealt with the draft coming through the front door, albeit it was also one of the coolest winter evenings in SF.
LaCoCo on Piedmont Avenue. Jan 10, with Mom, Ted and nephew Justin. It could not have rained harder...And a comforting spot to have warming meal. The house specialty fetucine with calamari, their accommodating kitchen to redux a child portion of the "white sauce" (al fredo with no meat) not linguine with clam sauce, and mom's favorite linguine piled high with clams. Dessert of tiramisu was a knockout.
Monday, January 31, 2005
Saturday, January 08, 2005
Gastronomy 2005
A local food columnist recently commented "dining out for Bay Area residents has made a come back." Further suggesting, folks dine out because they simply do not want to cook, countering the "special occasion" rational.
Offering a different take on dining/eating out for this Bay Area resident, it is an ongoing celebration of the abundance available in the region. There are few places in the world with high quality foodstuff: wines, cheeses, organic vegetable and fruits, innovators and informed palettes contribute to the gastronomic experience.
2005 Restaurant Notes
Eccolo in Berkeley A birthday lunch with Jacqueline. Slivers of Parmesan with 10 year old Balsamic Vinegar; celery and beet salad with a light citrus vinaigrette; artisan farmer bread; a bottle of '02 dolcetto di dogliani "san luigi", pecchenino, and coffee with a plate of cookies well matched and paired for a rainy Sunday in the Bay. The items were simple and a staple. A large communal country table in the center of the large dining area near the bar would have anchored the space and further evoked the Tuscan country house feel. The service was a bit sluggish, we were the last lunch seating. A second return is deserved, try other offerings, to see if the staff have matured (minimum unsolicited opinions of entrees or other menu items) and consistency.
Pearl Oyster Bar in Rockridge Area of Oakland A birthday dinner with Howard. Shared small plates of beet salad and frisee; BBQ cubed steak and Shitake mushroom; and salmon on a bed of garbanzos a la tagine. Both noted the refined space with pegboard ceiling, stainless steel wall and Mondrian influenced window treatment. I specially appreciated the sectional "abalone shell" photos. Service was benignly neglectful for an early midweek dinner, the place was full though not packed. To be informed that "you are correct about the corked glass of wine" was a bit off- putting.
A prior visit in April 04 with Betty to celebrate her new job, sharing poke (raw tuna strips), ceviche, chips and salsa with unfiltered sake was a delight. Running across other friends, fellow non-profit and community health colleagues, added to the experience of conviviality. We all remarked on the ambience, the well-prepared food, and thankful to see the former red tractor replaced.
The place is worth a return for its elan, and to see if Pearl has the chops to go beyond fashionable.
January is usually heavy with rain and promotions for dining out in San Francisco, a recognized slow month. More restaurant notes to come, with January also being my birthday month and have the pleasure/opportunity for dining at some of the most notable eateries in town.
Offering a different take on dining/eating out for this Bay Area resident, it is an ongoing celebration of the abundance available in the region. There are few places in the world with high quality foodstuff: wines, cheeses, organic vegetable and fruits, innovators and informed palettes contribute to the gastronomic experience.
2005 Restaurant Notes
Eccolo in Berkeley A birthday lunch with Jacqueline. Slivers of Parmesan with 10 year old Balsamic Vinegar; celery and beet salad with a light citrus vinaigrette; artisan farmer bread; a bottle of '02 dolcetto di dogliani "san luigi", pecchenino, and coffee with a plate of cookies well matched and paired for a rainy Sunday in the Bay. The items were simple and a staple. A large communal country table in the center of the large dining area near the bar would have anchored the space and further evoked the Tuscan country house feel. The service was a bit sluggish, we were the last lunch seating. A second return is deserved, try other offerings, to see if the staff have matured (minimum unsolicited opinions of entrees or other menu items) and consistency.
Pearl Oyster Bar in Rockridge Area of Oakland A birthday dinner with Howard. Shared small plates of beet salad and frisee; BBQ cubed steak and Shitake mushroom; and salmon on a bed of garbanzos a la tagine. Both noted the refined space with pegboard ceiling, stainless steel wall and Mondrian influenced window treatment. I specially appreciated the sectional "abalone shell" photos. Service was benignly neglectful for an early midweek dinner, the place was full though not packed. To be informed that "you are correct about the corked glass of wine" was a bit off- putting.
A prior visit in April 04 with Betty to celebrate her new job, sharing poke (raw tuna strips), ceviche, chips and salsa with unfiltered sake was a delight. Running across other friends, fellow non-profit and community health colleagues, added to the experience of conviviality. We all remarked on the ambience, the well-prepared food, and thankful to see the former red tractor replaced.
The place is worth a return for its elan, and to see if Pearl has the chops to go beyond fashionable.
January is usually heavy with rain and promotions for dining out in San Francisco, a recognized slow month. More restaurant notes to come, with January also being my birthday month and have the pleasure/opportunity for dining at some of the most notable eateries in town.
Why Wasn't this on the Front Page of the Wash Post?
WHY WASN'T THIS ON THE FRONT PAGE OF THE WASH POST???
For Immediate Release
January 6, 2005
Contact: Daniella Gibbs Legér / Brian Richardson
202-863-8148
DNC Statement on Claude Allen Appointment
Washington, D.C. - The White House announced yesterday
that Claude Allen will serve as President George W.
Bush's new domestic policy advisor.
Claude Allen first came under fire while serving as
the only African American aide to then-Senator Jesse
Helms. During that time, Helms filibustered against
the proposed federal holiday honoring Martin Luther
King, Jr. The following year Allen publicly rebuked
then-Governor James Hunt for having links to 'queers'
and 'radical feminists' during his race against Helms.
"Bush's appointment of Claude Allen is disappointing
and appalling," said Democratic National Committee
(DNC) Chairman Terry McAuliffe. "If Bush wants someone
with a history of intolerance to set domestic policy
for the country, then the American people are in for a
difficult four years."
For Immediate Release
January 6, 2005
Contact: Daniella Gibbs Legér / Brian Richardson
202-863-8148
DNC Statement on Claude Allen Appointment
Washington, D.C. - The White House announced yesterday
that Claude Allen will serve as President George W.
Bush's new domestic policy advisor.
Claude Allen first came under fire while serving as
the only African American aide to then-Senator Jesse
Helms. During that time, Helms filibustered against
the proposed federal holiday honoring Martin Luther
King, Jr. The following year Allen publicly rebuked
then-Governor James Hunt for having links to 'queers'
and 'radical feminists' during his race against Helms.
"Bush's appointment of Claude Allen is disappointing
and appalling," said Democratic National Committee
(DNC) Chairman Terry McAuliffe. "If Bush wants someone
with a history of intolerance to set domestic policy
for the country, then the American people are in for a
difficult four years."
Caps Rule- Astrology 2005
Birthday Greetings to my fellow Cappys
Inaki Dec-27
Rona Dec-30
Stef Dec-30
Robyn Jan-2
Sal Jan-4
Angelamia Jan-6
Donal Jan-8
For fellow Caps who are curios about ....
Year 2005 Overview
Provided by Astrology.com
Capricorn
Your own planet, serious Saturn, will spend the first half of the year influencing you with regard to relationships, Capricorn, and the second urging you to get up close and personal with someone you've just recently learned to trust. But during the whole of 2005, you'll be just as concerned as ever with your career.
The good news is that you'll be amply rewarded for your efforts in all departments, and the kudos will start pouring in as soon as the 9th of January.
For the rest of winter, you'll focus on your personality and appearance. You may be in the mood to start a diet or quit a bad habit during January. In February, you'll want to tend to money matters -- which may be a bit tricky to navigate. Keep an open mind, and don't hesitate to explore unconventional possibilities.
The full Moon of March 25th will bring attention to a family situation -- one you've been worried about for some time. Let go and let your emotions show. The solar eclipse in April will help to bring closure to the matter.
For the rest of spring, you'll be intent on getting closer to someone you've only been thinking of casually for some time now. It's time to put intimacy on the front burner. Whether it's emotional, physical or intellectual doesn't matter. Bare your soul with confidence. In particular, the full Moon of June 22nd will arrive just in time to help you be brave and bold, personally speaking. Take advantage of it.
The urge to get close won't be going anywhere soon, either. All during summer, you'll be focused on a certain person -- but fortunately, they'll be just as focused on you! This could mean -- once again -- that you're due to either end a relationship or take a casual encounter to a whole new level. Just don't let your work slide. You have your reputation to think of.
A voice from the past could arrive early in fall. Before you allow them back into your life, be sure you're ready for a committed relationship -- because that's exactly what they'll have in mind.
During October, two eclipses will help you to turn toward career matters and think less about personal things. By the time the holidays roll around, you'll be quite ready to relax -- and you'll certainly have earned it. Some new family members may be along to help you enjoy your time together -- but don't forget about that mistletoe!
Inaki Dec-27
Rona Dec-30
Stef Dec-30
Robyn Jan-2
Sal Jan-4
Angelamia Jan-6
Donal Jan-8
For fellow Caps who are curios about ....
Year 2005 Overview
Provided by Astrology.com
Capricorn
Your own planet, serious Saturn, will spend the first half of the year influencing you with regard to relationships, Capricorn, and the second urging you to get up close and personal with someone you've just recently learned to trust. But during the whole of 2005, you'll be just as concerned as ever with your career.
The good news is that you'll be amply rewarded for your efforts in all departments, and the kudos will start pouring in as soon as the 9th of January.
For the rest of winter, you'll focus on your personality and appearance. You may be in the mood to start a diet or quit a bad habit during January. In February, you'll want to tend to money matters -- which may be a bit tricky to navigate. Keep an open mind, and don't hesitate to explore unconventional possibilities.
The full Moon of March 25th will bring attention to a family situation -- one you've been worried about for some time. Let go and let your emotions show. The solar eclipse in April will help to bring closure to the matter.
For the rest of spring, you'll be intent on getting closer to someone you've only been thinking of casually for some time now. It's time to put intimacy on the front burner. Whether it's emotional, physical or intellectual doesn't matter. Bare your soul with confidence. In particular, the full Moon of June 22nd will arrive just in time to help you be brave and bold, personally speaking. Take advantage of it.
The urge to get close won't be going anywhere soon, either. All during summer, you'll be focused on a certain person -- but fortunately, they'll be just as focused on you! This could mean -- once again -- that you're due to either end a relationship or take a casual encounter to a whole new level. Just don't let your work slide. You have your reputation to think of.
A voice from the past could arrive early in fall. Before you allow them back into your life, be sure you're ready for a committed relationship -- because that's exactly what they'll have in mind.
During October, two eclipses will help you to turn toward career matters and think less about personal things. By the time the holidays roll around, you'll be quite ready to relax -- and you'll certainly have earned it. Some new family members may be along to help you enjoy your time together -- but don't forget about that mistletoe!
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
Monday, January 03, 2005
Welcome
Friends and Colleagues
Welcome and I wish to extend an invitation to use this space. Share your thoughts, triumphs, and challenges faced as we meet the day walking towards a just society. Let us know how this community of friends could lend support, offer insight or guidance, or simply if you need a pulpit.
Basic rules for using this space.
1) Introduce yourself (example: My name is and I am from or I believe )
2) Dialogue is critical (including a critique or to suggest an amendment)
3) Diatribe/Disrespect intentional or not is not permissible (future messages will be blocked)
4) Commitment to conscientious acts (do something)
5) Fraternity is welcome (option of taking your conversation offline)
6) Ideology is your personal compass, be open to others and foster understanding
7) Self Moderate (a good skill to develop)
8) If you post material not in the public domain --give credit
9) If you have a non-commercial blog and wish to link, simply do so
2) Dialogue is critical (including a critique or to suggest an amendment)
3) Diatribe/Disrespect intentional or not is not permissible (future messages will be blocked)
4) Commitment to conscientious acts (do something)
5) Fraternity is welcome (option of taking your conversation offline)
6) Ideology is your personal compass, be open to others and foster understanding
7) Self Moderate (a good skill to develop)
8) If you post material not in the public domain --give credit
9) If you have a non-commercial blog and wish to link, simply do so
10) If you refer others, inform them of the rules and the intent of the site
Thank you for taking the time to read this and looking forward to reading from you about topics of mutual interest.
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