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'Tis the Season for California Strawberries

For so long now, I've had a love affair with strawberries. As a child, I had a thing for strawberries with milk. Years later, it was chocolate-covered strawberries. These days, it's all of the above and pretty much anything containing this vibrant fruit. From glancing at frequent past blog posts, I realize I talk about strawberries a lot. Therefore, when the California Strawberry Commission asked if I'd like to learn more about this berry addiction of mine at San Francisco's Cotogna, my answer was duh, hello. I mean yes, of course. 

 

Burrata Pizza with Fresh California Strawberries at Cotogna

From cocktails to canapes,the talented team at Cotogna served us everything (I mean, everything) with a strawberry element. The burrata pizza was worth a quadruple serving, but sorry to report friends, it's not on their regular menu (although, it should be).

Strawberry Spring Hill -Spirito della fragola/campari/annise hyssop/seltzer

I didn't realize that 88% of the U.S. strawberry production is harvested here in California. Here are a few other interesting details:

-One serving of eight strawberries has more vitamin C than an orange and is packed with beneficial antioxidants and nutrients including potassium, folate and fiber.

-For strawberries to stay fresh, do not wash them right away. Refrigerate them as soon as possible in the original clamshell or in a container with a dry paper towel at the bottom. Separate the berries by layering them with paper towels to maximize freshness. Just before using, wash strawberries with the caps attached under a gentle spray of cool water.

-For best flavor, serve strawberries at room temperature.

-Most studies to date show that organic and conventional strawberries are equally nutritious

 

 

Learn more about California Strawberries HERE

Healthy Mexican in South Park - San Francisco

While all my friends ordered their white-flour tortilla burritos & fried tostadas, I opted for the healthier Grilled Salmon with black beans and rice. For the tortilla option, I chose a spinach version and made sure to visit the fresh salsa bar for some extra flavor and spice.

And yes...my dining compadres were all eyeing my meal and probably wishing they chose the same.

 

Mexico Au Parc

24 South Park Street  San Francisco, CA 94107
(415) 495-0409

Let Them Eat Cake in Japantown - San Francisco

Princess cakes & Strawberry shortcake & Fruit Tarts. Oh my!

Originally shot on Food Fashionista's Instagram

Murata's Cafe Hana

1737 Post Street #368  San Francisco, CA 94115

(415) 567 9133

Tartine Bakery and Cafe - San Francisco

Anyone who has driven through the Mission on a weekend, knows that the far-reaching line out the door on the corner of Guerrero and 18th is the beloved Tartine Bakery. With a comfortable, laid back charm of a neighborhood bake shop and noteworthy accolades from the James Beard Foundation (Outstanding Pastry Chef 2008), Tartine has been on the radar of locals and nationals for many years.

I haven't been in a while, and revisited this past week. From the moment you walk in, you are that kid in a candy store. Except instead of candy, you are surrounded by an assortment of pastries and loaves of freshly-baked bread. From the Buttermilk Scones, to the Tres Leche Cake, it really is difficult to decide. Especially for a carb and sugar-aholic like myself. I wanted everything. I finally decided. One sweet and one savory. That is it...for today.

 

Here are a few tips for dining at Tartine Bakery & Cafe:

Hot-Pressed Sandwiches (Mozzarella & Tapenade (front) and Spicy Turkey)

Keep in mind that Tartine Bakery's sandwich portions are generous. Certain varieties like the above also take around 15 minutes to prepare. If you are dining with a friend and you are both really hungry, order two different sandwiches and split them. Variety is the spice of life.

If you are on the lighter side of hungry, you and another can share one order. I have a HUGE appetite, and still managed to only finish one and 3/4 sandwiches.

                The famous Tartine Bakery Morning Bun

It's no secret that the most talked about item on the Tartine Bakery menu is the Morning Bun. From people on twitter excitedly claiming "Yessss, last morning bun is mine" to the thousands of reviews just on this one particular pastry, the Morning Bun has definitely been a San Francisco icon for the last several years.

If you really want that Morning Bun, and are worried that after waiting in a 20+ person line, they may sell out, go on a weekday afternoon. It's that easy (unless you have the job that offers no flexibility). Leave the fighting for Jerry Springer. You'll also easily find a seat. Morning Buns are one of those things you should enjoy in peace.

Make sure to ask them to heat the bun up for you. It adds a nice flakyness to the outer croissant-like texture accentuating the warm, gooey cinnamon bun-ish center.

Last but not least, there's a possibility you are going to have leftovers, so make sure you hide them from those hungry stalkers. My cat Romy tried to creep up on my remaining sandwich, but no one, not even my sweet, sneaky kitty, gets between my food and I.

 

Tartine Bakery & Cafe

600 Guerrero St
(between 18th St & 19th St)
San Francisco, CA 94110

Cherry Oh Baby

Baby Got Back (Taken with Instagram)

Doughnut Peaches - The Healthy Kind of Donut

This was the healthiest bag of doughnuts I ever grabbed for. Donut Peaches are a sweet, healthy treat so enjoy them while they're still in season.

Support HAPA RAMEN's Kickstarter Campaign - Every dollar counts!

As a biz owner, I'm a huge fan of people who follow their dreams. It's something many talk about, but not a lot do. Most find excuses, reasons, but mostly it's just their own fear that prevents them from doing it.

On the other hand, there are those that break through the fear factor barrier and go for it. But, as any small business owner knows, finances can get tight and run thin. From paying your employees, to purchasing paper for receipts..., everything adds up. And when you are a small business without huge backing and investors, it's often challenging.

If you've frequented the SF Ferry Building Farmers' Market, or followed the dining scene around San Francisco, I'm sure you are familiar with Hapa Ramen. From soy-braised pork tongue, to vegetarian miso, chances are you've tried it at Hapa and thought or said, "Wow, this is some awesome ramen, I just wish they were open for dinner." Well, SF ramen fiends, the time has now come and the Hapa Ramen crew is hoping to turn their dream into reality.

As a truly grassroots, small business, they need our help. Starting this week, you can make a pledge or $5 and up via Kickstarter to help Hapa Ramen reach their $55,000 goal by August 1st. Every bit counts and in addition to the future Hapa Ramen brick & mortar, there's an additional reward in it for you (see below). And believe me friends, once you try their ramen, you'll be glad you supported these passionate and talented people in bringing their little ramen stand to a permanent space where we could all enjoy a wonderful meal with friends and they could call home.

 

 

Food Fashionista's DIY Origami Money Ring

I'm Japanese. I take lots of photos, I like raw fish, and yes...I know how to make origami. For those of you who are like "wt* is origami", according to Wikipedia, it's a " traditional Japanese art of paper folding which started in the 17th Century AD". I just remember it as a hobby from my childhood. I'd have a stack of square-colored paper in metallic, pastels, neons, and neutrals and I'd have my origami book and I'd make stuff. Cranes, boxes, yachts (okay, row boats), and rings.

I recently made a ring out of a dollar bill (above), and my friends just loved it. A few chefs I know even wanted to show their kids. And that, my friends is a good thing, since I've found that dollar-bill origami is actually a fantastic way to keep kids entertained at the dining table. Not everyone wants their little ones to bring their video games or coloring books into restaurants, but someone, somewhere always has the dollar bills in their pockets or purse.

Just make sure to carry some $1's or the kiddies may be sporting some pricey origami bling.

For instructions on HOW TO MAKE A MONEY ORIGAMI RING, visit HERE 

Food Fashionista's Coconut Milk Macaroni and Cheese

Who doesn't like a macaroni and cheese fix once in a while? There may be some of you out there, but you are a rare breed. It's quick, simple, and brings back carefree childhood memories. My health tip for those who love it, but are trying not to consume too much dairy, is to add coconut milk. It's creamy, and adds a touch of sweetness to it. Throw in some of your favorite vegetables and seasonings like mushrooms, brocollis, peas and red chili flakes, and it's a quick and satisfying meal that you and your kids will adore.

SF CHEFS 2012 Cooking Demos - Meatballs, Macarons & More

Here's your chance to learn firsthand how several of the Bay Area's top chefs create some of their succulent signature dishes. From Hoss Zare's famous meatballs, to Morimoto Pastry Chef's macarons, SF Chefs cooking demos has the 411 straight from the source. Reserve your spot before tickets sell out.

DEMO: INTERNATIONAL MEATBALL

WHO: Hoss Zaré (Zaré at Fly Trap) and Chris Thompson (A16)

WHEN: Saturday, June 9, 12:00PM – 2:00PM

WHERE: Union Square Williams-Sonoma Demo Kitchen

WHAT:  Let acclaimed chef Hoss Zaré (Zaré at Fly Trap) take you on a meatball journey. With stops in Italy, Iran and beyond you’ll leave inspired to explore the flavors and foods of different cultures. Tastes of each dish will be offered to guests. Ticket Price: $20 / $15 (Visa Signature).

TICKETS & INFO

 

DEMO: MARVELOUS MACARONS

WHO: Michelle Hernandez (Le Dix-Sept Patisserie) and Jessica Entzel (Morimoto Napa)

WHEN: Saturday, June 23, 12:00PM – 2:00PM

WHERE: Union Square Williams-Sonoma Demo Kitchen

WHAT:  Macarons are the latest dessert craze and offer complex tastes in a deliciously compact package. Watch Michelle Hernandez (Le Dix-Sept Patisserie) transform classic (and unusual) dessert flavor combinations into beautiful macarons. These jewel-like treats will be paired alongside full-sized, decadent creations demonstrated by pastry chef Jessica Entzel (Morimoto Napa). Guests will taste samples of all the desserts demonstrated. Ticket Price: $20 / $15 (Visa Signature). 

TICKETS & INFO

 

 

 

DEMO: SUMMER ROAD TRIPPING

WHO: Jason Berthold (RN74) and Omri Aflalo (Bourbon Steak)

WHEN: Saturday, June 30, 12:00PM – 2:00PM

WHERE: Union Square Williams-Sonoma Demo Kitchen

WHAT:  Get on the road with chefs Jason Berthold (RN74) and Omri Aflalo (Bourbon Steak) as they share simple, satisfying recipes (and wine pairings!) for your next summer picnic. These innovative chefs put a modern twist on the classics, developing robust and refined flavors from the bounty of seasonal ingredients available in Northern California. Samples of each dish, along with wine pairings, will be offered. Ticket Price: $20 / $15 (Visa Signature). 

TICKETS & INFO   

                                                                      

More SF CHEFS details and tickets can be found at: http://sfchefsfoodwine.com/events/