By Katy Budge

It’s bittersweet to begin writing this post. I’m determined that it’s going to be a happy tale about being able to return to a city that I love, and to enjoy all of its moveable feasts. I did get to do that – to go to San Francisco in the spring of 2021. I and my friends were vaccinated. We wore masks on public transit, we wore masks going to and from our tables in restaurants, we took all the other necessary precautions that one takes emerging from a global pandemic. A bright future lay ahead!

Well, as I said, I’m determined to keep this a happy tale. Here were some of our favorite culinary adventures on that trip, I hope they’re all still there next time I visit.

La Cocina Marketplace – This newly opened marketplace showcases entrepreneurs that got their start in the La Cocina incubator program, primarily geared towards women of color. Every menu is a yummy success story!

Tadich Grill – It doesn’t get more old school than to sip a classic Bloody Mary at a San Francisco classic.

Gentilly – Can’t wait to go back and try more of this New Orleans’ inspired menu, especially the Bam Bam Shrimp and the Maw Maw’s Gumbo.

New Belgium Brewing – If you had told me I would fall in love with fried olives …

Local Brewing – Nice small-batch beers from a woman brewer.

Outer Sunset Farmers’ Market – A foodie’s farmers’ market!

Old Mandarin Islamic – Finally got to this legacy restaurant, and it did not disappoint. The Mu Shu stir-fry was surprisingly good, as was the braised Napa cabbage in vinegar. The rest of the menu is pretty lamb-heavy, but lots of poultry/beef/seafood dishes to try as well.

Hog Dogma Brewing – Cool dog-friendly brewery tucked just inside a small shopping in Half Moon Bay.

Harvey’s – Named after the iconic gay-activist Harvey Milk. Notice the pickles? Ah, the Castro.

Original Joe’s – Might become a regular at the Westlake (Daly City) location of this family-owned joint. Old School Italian menu, plus good cocktails!

Tacolicious – It’s perfectly understandable to go to Tacolicious for the margaritas, but don’t forget about the tacos. And vice-versa!

AKNA – Only stopped in this new place for what turned out to be a delicious beverage, but will definitely return to try the Yucatan-inspired menu!

Hope to see you again soon, San Francisco.