Dionne's pick in the Mission District was full of flavor and color! The door and window frames are painted neon pink, tropical murals cover the walls, and plants hang above. The varied textures and spicy, sweet, and umami-heavy flavors in every dish—influenced by Laos, the Philippines, Thailand, Japan, and more. The pork belly steam bun pictured below was to die for. The night started with an incredible flashback: drinks at Blondie's!! In the late 1990s, Gail and I were a fixture there, sipping those massive dirty martinis. So thrilling to see that it has withstood the test of time and transformation in the City. Other than a minor makeover (outdoor seating), it was the same old Blondies -- with massive martinis you can sip while looking out into the street. (July 28, 2022)
Restaurant Club started in May 2005 with Julia, Gail, Dionne and Stephanie, who all take turns picking the restaurant of their choice. Three main rules: (1) the person choosing must pick a restaurant they've never been to; (2) ordering dessert is mandatory and (3) guests must be female. We're eating (and drinking) our way through San Francisco...