The Chatterbox

Coming up this Saturday July 24th is the next SF UNDERGROUND MARKET. The market will be split into two shifts: the first (11am-4pm) will be focused on “take-homeables,” like jams, produce, soaps, desserts, etc. If you want to avoid the much-discussed crowds, this is a good time to go. Buy…

Wow, is our new mantra a chicken in every pot, a farmers’ market in every ‘hood? Starting this Wednesday July 21st, the MINT PLAZA FARMERS’ MARKET will launch, running every Wednesday from 10am-2pm (until October 27th). There is a nice variety of vendors so far, and most are organic, including…

There are just eight days left for you to enter to win a variety of prizes in the 20th Anniversary Contest on now at ~PALIO D’ASTI~. There are 24 prizes, including a private mixology class for 10, a case of Italian wine, and a cocktail party for you and…

Get ready to put your piggy nose on, because THE PASTA SHOP’S annual Hog Heaven III is coming up on Saturday July 31st. Artisanal and sustainable pork will be featured in educational demos, tastings, book signings, and patio grilling. Producers, chefs, and authors will answer questions with shoppers as…

Coming up in November (from the 4th through the 6th) is The Culinary Institute of America’s 13th annual WORLDS OF FLAVOR CONFERENCE & FESTIVAL. And what’s especially exciting about this one is the entire 2010 event will be devoted to Japanese cuisine: it’s titled JAPAN: FLAVORS OF…

Things in SoMa just keep on happening: opening this week, next door to Pinkie’s Bakery, is ~CITIZEN’S BAND~ (as in CB radio). The CB also stands for the partners’ initials (chef Chris Beerman, and pastry chef Cheryl Burr). A third channel on the radio is managing partner Boris…

Opening for dinner this Wednesday night is the other half of ~RADIUS~, the dining room side. During my SoMa meanderings on Sunday night, I took a peek and couldn’t believe the transformation from the former Julie’s Supper Club. All that really remains is the bar, which is completely…

After closing for a short summer break, ~LOCAL MISSION EATERY~ is back open today, and offering a new dinner program starting this Friday July 16th. There’s a new dinner menu, with the option to order dishes à la carte. Some examples include chilled corn soup, gnocchi with house-pulled mozzarella,…

I got a tip from a colleague over at the Marina Times about  changes at the historic ALFRED’S STEAKHOUSE: Al Petri’s son, Marco, is going to be taking over the business. Yup, after working there for 37 years, Al is going to enjoy life outside of the restaurant.…