Happy Almost Fall Y’all! Lately, I’ve been vibing on all things experiential. But, honestly, what makes a dining experience? Is it the epic bites? Cocktails that go down so good you want endless pours? Or is it even the people that get you excited about a spot? This month, we’re diving into all things “experience” and I have to argue… it’s a combination of all three.
We start off at newish spot downtown, Lingr and as I’ve explained to Bartender Matt, it’s been decided, I’m carving my name in a barstool. I’ve become obsessed with all concoctions coming out of his amazingly imaginative mind. Influenced by the five Chinese elements, the menu features: Fire, Water, Wood, Earth, and Metal approachably pairing with Lingr; Char Siu Shitake & Gai Lan Steamed Bao and Salt and Pepper Fish Cakes the Cantonese and Nordic inspired dishes such as Char Siu Shitake and Gai Lan Steamed Bao and the addictive Salt and Pepper Fish Cakes from Chef Jeffrey Jew. I have it on good authority, a tea menu (equally inspired by the elements) and some Spritzes (which based on a sneak peek will be my new fav) are rolling out soon. If spirits aren’t your jam, do not hesitate to have Zach wow you with his Somm prowess giving you new context for different grapes. Trust me, you will “love the way they drink”.
Next up, we head down to the Don Cesar to Maritana, an old gem that got a coastal meets deco facelift during the pandemic, but is still as imaginative as ever with Chef Emily Ferrari at the helm. No Maritana dining experience would be complete without sitting in Don’s section. (We request him so often, it is now permanently under our reservation notes!) His excitement about the ever-evolving, seasonal menu is infectious and makes you want to continually try new things. Our most recent favs were the King Crab and Caviar with Corn, Old Bay, and Brown Butter over a single perfect Raviolo, the Spiny Lobster with Mussels, Fennel, Sun Dried Tomatoes, and Cioppino poured tableside, or the Osso Bucco with Baby Carrots, Cannellini Beans, and Guanciale. Do not forget to save room for dessert and ask for a dessert wine pairing that promises to be magnifique!
We round out this month’s list at a spot that my family has been frequenting literally since before I was born. Café Largo has been with us through every Christmas Eve and most major life events as well. Chef Dominique Christini, classically trained in Nice, is a culinary French genius. Every dish comes out of the kitchen speaking of the love that went into its creation. Some of our favorite dishes have included the Assortiments de Pâtés et Charcuterie, tableside Filet de Sole, Sweetbreads, and of course the Décadance au Chocolate which includes an array of the best mousses you will ever have. No meal here is complete without asking Chef for a wine pairing recommendation. One of our all time favs is the Bouchard Pere & Fils Beaune Close de la Mousse Premier Cru from Burgundy. Stay up to date on their social media for upcoming Wine Dinners and Special Events.
If you can’t wait until November to see what I’m eating, then check more content out on Instagram or Facebook @baybeswhobrunch or contact me at [email protected]. In the meantime, if you need me you can find me standing on a barstool or holding my food up to a pretty wall with a camera in my hand around the Bay and beyond!
