AWAY.
Friday, October 16, 2009 at 3:12PM 
I needed this recent trip to San Francisco for a number of reasons. A few I didn’t realize until I was home, back into my routine. It is a city of passion; of a good handful of crazies, but people are themselves. A man singing, full volume, while walking down the street. A number of open kitchens, inviting diners to watch chefs of all levels, articulate their craft. People playing musical instruments by the Embarcadero, eyes closed and internalizing the music they're creating. There seemed to be more ‘life’ happening than you see on a given day in a suburbia, and I loved it. 
The intention was to make a quick trip, as Hugh had a engagement session to shoot, and the remaining free time was very food focused. Following a number of recommendations from Heidi, we were well fed. Hugh holds Anthony Bourdain in high regard, (it’s tough not to trust someone so frank),so we trekked a number of miles to his recommendation for Red Java Hut. I can get giddy about food destinations, and this was Hugh’s turn to be giddy. Can you tell how interested I was by the pictures below?He is a man of consistency, and regardless of the variety up there, I think he always settled on some form of pizza or cheeseburger the entire three days.
As I mentioned, the passion truly comes through in the food. Perfect cappuccinos, some of the richest ice cream I’ve tasted (thank you for your spot on description, Tea!), and certainly an affinity for seasonal and local ingredients. I looked up about two dozen menus, and I think ‘sand dabs’ were on every single one. There is a food culture in San Francisco that even those not intrigued by gastronomy, can respect. I had no idea there was a sand dab season. Thank you, San Francisco. 
Reader Comments (21)
Sara!
I just ate at Mission Beach Cafe 2 weeks ago and LOVED it! So cool you were there too... :)
So glad you enjoyed my city :)
What a coincidence! Hugh said it was the best cheeseburger he's ever had.
Oh next time you come tell me and we can snack together!
Oh I wish I would have known you were in town! I could have finally met you. Oh well, next time :)
looks and sounds like a great trip!
I love San Francisco! It looks like you had a delicious trip :-)
love the shots! soo glad that you got a chance to feast in my hometown! did you like that episode of No Reservations in SF?
food-focused fun trips are the way to go!
San Francisco is such an amazing city! :)
@tracy - I hadn't seen the episode, but Hugh did and logged that burger place away to memory. Have you been?
This is a great post and so true of the city! I recently came back from SF and had a very similar feeling about the city!
SF is one of the places I've always wanted to visit! I'd love to go someday. :)
It sounds like a lovely trip, Sara. I just had to comment about the photographs in this post. There's something about them that totally grabs me. I've come back several times just to look at them again. Have a great week.
I visited San Franciso back in 2002. I was introduced to cioppino on that trip and I remember there was a restaurant overlooking the bay right across from our hotel that served the best clam chowder and warm bread! It is one of my favorite cities and as soon as I can save up the money and I am going back with my husband.
this warms the cockles of my heart. i have major san francisco pride, especially with regards to food! :)
Sara! Love it so small world that you and Cameron are food blog friends! Love it when so cal meets central cal espically over food! :) What could be better then fun, friends, food and Photos! :)
This looks amazing! Can't wait to try! Btw - made your Spicy Fish Tacos. That sauce is crazypants. We love you! Not in a weird way:)
Okay, oops. My first comment was in regards to your Spiced Sweet Potatoes and Chickpeas. Apparently, I need glasses. But love the trip too!
I had no idea there was a sand dab season either! So nice to meet you and chat. Sooo, did you like the ice cream? I still hold that coffee-toffee is the best flavor. :-)
You're so creative Sara! I love your blog and am inspired to make these dishes for Thanksgiving. Thank you for sharing! Love ya, Cyndi U.