apologies to Altadena Hiker
Recently back from "the Bay Area" (the vaguest geographical term in all of California) where you couldn't make a left turn without tripping across a free range cow or a sustainable cup of coffee, which, happily, translated into delectable meals all around. The Il Fornaio in a hotel in San Jose is bliss--the one in Pasadena: corporate.
Why not So Cal? Why not? Is it the car fumes? The haze? This, I had to ponder.
Then I realized, there are some great spots with wonderful, reasonably priced food.
My recommendations to you--
The York, in Highland Park. Truly delicious food (perhaps not the most comfortable venue). I had a spectacular bouillabaisse for $15. Sublime.
Happy hour at Ruth's Chris. An amazing filet steak sandwich, with perfectly crisp fries for $7.
Cacao Mexicatessan, Eagle Rock again, great stuff, the owner studied under the master, Rick Bayless.
Daisy Mint in Pasadena. Just fun.
I was going to recommend Palate Food and Wine, but, dammit, they've closed.
I guess I'm not quite sure now, where I'll be going, when I feel flush.
3 months ago
"Recently back from "the Bay Area" (the vaguest geographical term in all of California) where you couldn't make a left turn without tripping across a free range cow or a sustainable cup of coffee..."
ReplyDeleteWish this opening hadn't been so brilliant, because now you've made me feel embarrassed and doubt myself. I like Il Fornaio in Pasadena -- but then, more for the memories and less for the food (that's equivocating).
I've been to Daisy Mint many times; have to try the others when I get the chance. And the Il Fornaio in San Jose, too.
ReplyDeleteYes, the York and Ruth's Chris. I haven't tried the others, but I will (when I feel flush, as you say).
ReplyDeleteJean! See you at Daisy Mint!
ReplyDeleteP:LOVE the York--
AH--High praise, m'dear--
no no no The York is Eagle Rock adjacent. It's in Highland Park.
ReplyDeletePA: THANK you for rectifying that!
ReplyDeleteHighland Park is happening, and we don't need the NY Times to let us know.
PS-JEAN! If you go to San Jose check out Arcadia, in the Marriott. Pricy indeed, but terrific!
I always like recommendations. Love Daisy Mint. Will try the others.
ReplyDeleteI used your NY reference into my latest blog post. Gave it a little zip
ReplyDelete