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"content": "\u003cp>\u003ci>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/span>\u003c/i>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> starts its third decade of episodes with four weeks of flavor-packed finds this April! From fermentation-forward bites in San Jose to New Orleans-inspired comfort in Los Gatos and vibrant Thai dishes in Berkeley, the James Beard and Emmy Award-winning series returns with eateries that reflect the region’s dynamic culinary landscape.\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">At the table, local diners take the lead, bringing their personal favorites into the spotlight and making the case for why they’re worth the trip. Conversations unfold around what stands out, what surprises and what keeps people coming back. This season spans a wide range of culinary experiences, from soulful Southern comfort food in Oakland to an immersive, theatrical tasting experience in San Francisco and old-school diner breakfasts in Alameda. Plus, reporter Cecilia Phillips heads to San Francisco’s Chinatown Night Market to take in the flavors, energy and community that define this iconic neighborhood.\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Don’t miss four brand-new episodes as season 21 kicks off, \u003cstrong>Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. on KQED 9, starting April 23\u003c/strong>.\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Pull up a chair and bring your appetite — here’s what’s on our plates this season:\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUxA8k-Krhw\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cb>April 23\u003c/b>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> At \u003c/span>\u003cb>Fox Tale Fermentation Project\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> in downtown \u003c/span>\u003cb>San Jose\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">, boundary-pushing fermentation fuels both the beer and the food with a selection of plant-based favorites from kraut-topped nachos to cashew queso mac.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> In \u003c/span>\u003cb>Los Gatos\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">, \u003c/span>\u003cb>The Bywater\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> channels the spirit of New Orleans with crispy fried chicken and Creole fries, hush puppies drizzled with hot honey before finishing on warm, powdered-sugar-dusted beignets.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> On \u003c/span>\u003cb>Oakland\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">’s Telegraph Avenue at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Pyeong Chang Tofu House\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">, spicy tofu soup arrives alongside crisp kimchi pancakes, BBQ spicy pork, and stone-pot kimchi dolsot bibimbap for almost three decades.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cb>April 30\u003c/b>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> In \u003c/span>\u003cb>Berkeley’\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">s Gilman District, \u003c/span>\u003cb>Funky Elephant\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> brings vibrant Thai street food to life in a colorful, intimate space, with dishes like Wholesome Noodle in savory broth and sweet roti with roasted coconut to balance out the heat.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cb>Y’s Choice\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> in \u003c/span>\u003cb>Oakland\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> serves up hearty soul food favorites like crispy fried fish with cornbread, turkey wings alongside mac and cheese, and fall-off-the-bone oxtails over silky grits.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> In \u003c/span>\u003cb>San Francisco\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">’s Mission District, \u003c/span>\u003cb>Jim’s by MLVS\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> keeps breakfast classic with corned beef hash topped with eggs over easy and rye toast, chicken-fried steak with golden hash browns, and its beloved green salsa spooned generously over just about everything.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Cecilia Phillips dives into “Cecilia Tries It” at \u003c/span>\u003cb>San Francisco\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">’s \u003c/span>\u003cb>BeChinatown Night Market\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">, sampling her way through the sweets and treats that make this historic neighborhood so special.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cb>May 7\u003c/b>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> In \u003c/span>\u003cb>San Francisco\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">’s SoMa district, \u003c/span>\u003cb>Merchant Roots\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> invites diners into an intimate, theatrical and seasonally rotating tasting experience.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> In Old \u003c/span>\u003cb>Oakland’\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">s Swan’s Market, \u003c/span>\u003cb>T’Chaka\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> celebrates Haitian cuisine in a bright, communal space, serving deeply comforting plates like braised oxtail stew and crispy citrus-marinated griot.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> At \u003c/span>\u003cb>Creekside Bakery\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> in \u003c/span>\u003cb>Novato\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">, locals line up for buttery ham-and-cheese croissants, smoked salmon toast on house-baked bread, and princess cake slices crowned with marzipan roses.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cb>May 14\u003c/b>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> In \u003c/span>\u003cb>Alameda\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">, \u003c/span>\u003cb>Ole’s Waffle House\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> has been keeping breakfast traditions alive since 1927 in a retro diner setting, where locals start the day with walnut waffles, crispy bacon and eggs, and hearty Southern fried chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> In \u003c/span>\u003cb>San Carlos\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">, \u003c/span>\u003cb>Pazzo\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> delivers Italian comfort with a modern touch, serving dishes like cavatelli with slow-braised pork ragu and New Haven style wood-fired pizzas.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> At \u003c/span>\u003cb>Korean Superette\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> in \u003c/span>\u003cb>Berkeley\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">, bold flavors shine in dishes like rose rice cakes and spicy beef doenjang stew 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serves up hearty soul food favorites like crispy fried fish with cornbread, turkey wings alongside mac and cheese, and fall-off-the-bone oxtails over silky grits.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> In \u003c/span>\u003cb>San Francisco\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">’s Mission District, \u003c/span>\u003cb>Jim’s by MLVS\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> keeps breakfast classic with corned beef hash topped with eggs over easy and rye toast, chicken-fried steak with golden hash browns, and its beloved green salsa spooned generously over just about everything.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Cecilia Phillips dives into “Cecilia Tries It” at \u003c/span>\u003cb>San Francisco\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">’s \u003c/span>\u003cb>BeChinatown Night Market\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">, sampling her way through the sweets and treats that make this historic neighborhood so special.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cb>May 7\u003c/b>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> In \u003c/span>\u003cb>San Francisco\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">’s SoMa district, \u003c/span>\u003cb>Merchant Roots\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> invites diners into an intimate, theatrical and seasonally rotating tasting experience.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> In Old \u003c/span>\u003cb>Oakland’\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">s Swan’s Market, \u003c/span>\u003cb>T’Chaka\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> celebrates Haitian cuisine in a bright, communal space, serving deeply comforting plates like braised oxtail stew and crispy citrus-marinated griot.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> At \u003c/span>\u003cb>Creekside Bakery\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> in \u003c/span>\u003cb>Novato\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">, locals line up for buttery ham-and-cheese croissants, smoked salmon toast on house-baked bread, and princess cake slices crowned with marzipan roses.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cb>May 14\u003c/b>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> In \u003c/span>\u003cb>Alameda\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">, \u003c/span>\u003cb>Ole’s Waffle House\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> has been keeping breakfast traditions alive since 1927 in a retro diner setting, where locals start the day with walnut waffles, crispy bacon and eggs, and hearty Southern fried chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> In \u003c/span>\u003cb>San Carlos\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">, \u003c/span>\u003cb>Pazzo\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> delivers Italian comfort with a modern touch, serving dishes like cavatelli with slow-braised pork ragu and New Haven style wood-fired pizzas.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> At \u003c/span>\u003cb>Korean Superette\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> in \u003c/span>\u003cb>Berkeley\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">, bold flavors shine in dishes like rose rice cakes and spicy beef doenjang stew alongside roasted corn silk tea and Korean iced lattes.\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Reporter Cecilia Phillips wraps up the episode at the \u003cb>West Oakland Farmers Market\u003c/b>, visiting the Oakland Ballers and sampling classic ballpark-style barbecue.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Have a restaurant you think deserves the spotlight? Nominate your favorite spots and apply to be a guest at\u003c/span>\u003ca href=\"http://kqed.org/checkplease/apply\"> \u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">kqed.org/checkplease/apply\u003c/span>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">.\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "check-please-bay-area-reviews-kahnfections-twelvemonth-pucquio",
"title": "Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Kahnfections, Twelvemonth, Pucquio",
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"headTitle": "Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Kahnfections, Twelvemonth, Pucquio | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/em>season 20, episode 4, airs Thursday, May 1, at 7:30 pm, on KQED 9. See other \u003ca href=\"http://www.kqed.org/tv/programs/index.jsp?pgmid=14084\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">television airtimes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Nestled in San Francisco’s Mission District, \u003cstrong>Kahnfections\u003c/strong> is a beloved bakery that fills the air with the mouthwatering scents of butter and sugar each morning. Regulars swear by the chocolate croissants, glazed cinnamon rolls, and the indulgent bacon-cheddar-scallion biscuit sandwiches, each made with the kind of care that only a true neighborhood spot can offer. Down the Peninsula in Burlingame, \u003cstrong>Twelvemonth\u003c/strong> is elevating sustainable and plant-based dining in a sleek and elegant space. Diners are treated to creative, vegetable-driven dishes like crispy maitake mushrooms, the umami-packed panzanella alla puttanesca, and a surprisingly rich potted pudding served with chocolate custard, edible “soil” and hazelnut praline. Finally, in Oakland’s Rockridge neighborhood, \u003cstrong>Pucquio\u003c/strong> transports diners to Peru with its vibrant flavors that feature indigenous ingredients. The cebiche de pescado, featuring pristine fish and sweet potato bathed in citrus and spice, is a masterclass in balance, while the chupe de camarones, a rich, deeply comforting shrimp bisque, showcases the depth of Peruvian cuisine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_23481\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-23481 size-medium\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/05/2004_Guests-800x533.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/05/2004_Guests-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/05/2004_Guests-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/05/2004_Guests-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/05/2004_Guests-768x512.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/05/2004_Guests-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/05/2004_Guests.png 1620w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco joins guests Manali Gokhale, Chris Carroll and Liza Fiorentinos from KQED in San Francisco.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Get Restaurant Information:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://kahnfections.com/\">\u003cstrong>Kahnfections\u003c/strong> (San Francisco)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.twelvemonthburlingame.com/\">\u003cstrong>Twelvemonth\u003c/strong> (Burlingame)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.pucquio.com/\">\u003cstrong>Pucquio \u003c/strong>(Oakland)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>Episode Transcript\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"183\" data-end=\"247\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"183\" data-end=\"202\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Breakfast biscuit heaven in San Francisco…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"249\" data-end=\"299\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"249\" data-end=\"268\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> It’s so fantastically buttery.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"301\" data-end=\"363\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"301\" data-end=\"320\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Plant-forward fine dining in Burlingame…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"365\" data-end=\"446\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"365\" data-end=\"386\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> I said, “What, what, what, what?” It’s really unbelievable.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"448\" data-end=\"512\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"448\" data-end=\"467\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And contemporary Peruvian plates in Oakland.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"514\" data-end=\"572\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"514\" data-end=\"532\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> You realize, “Holy cow, it’s all gone.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"574\" data-end=\"669\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"574\" data-end=\"593\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Just ahead on \u003cem data-start=\"608\" data-end=\"634\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em> Like eating the top of the muffin.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"671\" data-end=\"705\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"671\" data-end=\"690\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Yeah, exactly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"707\" data-end=\"722\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"724\" data-end=\"1257\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"724\" data-end=\"743\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Hi, I’m Leslie Sbrocco. Welcome to \u003cem data-start=\"779\" data-end=\"805\">Check, Please! Bay Area,\u003c/em> the show where Bay Area residents review and talk about their favorite restaurants. Now, we have three guests, and each one recommends one of their favorite spots and the other two go check them out to see what they think. Joining me at the \u003cem data-start=\"1047\" data-end=\"1063\">Check, Please!\u003c/em> table today are clean-energy program manager \u003cstrong data-start=\"1109\" data-end=\"1127\">Manali Gokhale\u003c/strong>, plant business owner \u003cstrong data-start=\"1150\" data-end=\"1170\">Liza Fiorentinos\u003c/strong>, and high school teacher \u003cstrong data-start=\"1196\" data-end=\"1213\">Chris Carroll\u003c/strong>. Welcome, everyone. Ready for a great show?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1259\" data-end=\"1282\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1259\" data-end=\"1277\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1284\" data-end=\"1322\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1284\" data-end=\"1305\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Yes, absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1324\" data-end=\"1586\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1324\" data-end=\"1343\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Manali’s breakfast spot is proof-positive that good things come in small packages. It’s a tiny bakery that packs big flavors into hot, buttery, build-your-own biscuit sandwiches. Located in San Francisco’s Mission District, it’s Kahnfections.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1588\" data-end=\"1603\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1605\" data-end=\"1691\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1605\" data-end=\"1614\">Mark Kahn:\u003c/strong> I think a bakery can really be a community gathering spot. It is happy food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1693\" data-end=\"1801\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1693\" data-end=\"1702\">Judy Kahn:\u003c/strong> Nobody comes into a bakery in a bad mood. Or if they do, they tend to leave in a much better mood.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1803\" data-end=\"1818\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1820\" data-end=\"2224\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1820\" data-end=\"1829\">Judy Kahn:\u003c/strong> Kahnfections is kind of old-school American meets French. Our best seller, carrot cake, was kind of the impetus behind what was going to be at Kahnfections. But then when I went to pastry school, I really fell in love with croissants and making them. And we do 10 different varieties. Our scones are baked with a house-made scone glaze, just that finishing touch that put it right over the top.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2226\" data-end=\"2376\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2226\" data-end=\"2235\">Mark Kahn:\u003c/strong> It’s really hard to find a good breakfast sandwich, particularly on a buttermilk biscuit, and that’s kind of a thing we’ve become known for.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2378\" data-end=\"2513\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2378\" data-end=\"2387\">Judy Kahn:\u003c/strong> We make our eggs fresh to order in a kind of French omelet style, so that it takes on a little bit of a soufflé-like texture.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2515\" data-end=\"2589\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2515\" data-end=\"2525\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Each breakfast sandwich roughly gets about one and a half eggs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2591\" data-end=\"2726\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2591\" data-end=\"2600\">Judy Kahn:\u003c/strong> I think the key to a good biscuit is not overworking the dough and doing it by hand. We make about 1,200 biscuits every week.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2728\" data-end=\"2768\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2728\" data-end=\"2737\">Mark Kahn:\u003c/strong> That’s 50,000 biscuits a year.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2770\" data-end=\"2891\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2770\" data-end=\"2779\">Judy Kahn:\u003c/strong> That’s a lot of biscuits. That’s a lot of butter. Some of our most loyal customers are the four-legged variety.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2893\" data-end=\"2944\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2893\" data-end=\"2902\">Mark Kahn:\u003c/strong> Yeah, we do have house-made dog biscuits.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2946\" data-end=\"3012\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2946\" data-end=\"2955\">Judy Kahn:\u003c/strong> People tell us that their dogs bring them to the bakery.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3014\" data-end=\"3126\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3014\" data-end=\"3023\">Mark Kahn:\u003c/strong> We do like the furry friends. We have people who come by every day. This is their morning coffee spot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3128\" data-end=\"3153\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3128\" data-end=\"3138\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Vanilla latte?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3155\" data-end=\"3571\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3155\" data-end=\"3164\">Mark Kahn:\u003c/strong> They’ll grab a table and they’ll be out there for an hour and a half, and we love that. We’ve been approached, “Oh, you know, do you want to do, like, a ghost kitchen where you can make your sandwiches and we’ll deliver them out everywhere?” I was like, “No, we don’t want to do that.” We like to see people eat the food and get satisfaction out of it. We get satisfaction out of them getting satisfaction.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3573\" data-end=\"3701\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3573\" data-end=\"3582\">Judy Kahn:\u003c/strong> We just really love that we’ve become part of these people’s lives. We appreciate them so much and they appreciate us.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3703\" data-end=\"3718\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3720\" data-end=\"3836\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3720\" data-end=\"3739\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, Manali, when you go for breakfast, do you tend towards the sweet or the savory or a mixture?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3838\" data-end=\"4358\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3838\" data-end=\"3857\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Ideally, I really like to have both, and they actually have a pretty wide variety of your classic pastries, you know, croissants, muffins, scones. But what made me really fall in love with it is their breakfast sandwich. It’s an egg and cheese on a biscuit. But this is no ordinary biscuit. It’s almost indescribable but I’m going to try. It’s soft, it’s fluffy, it’s so fantastically buttery and also really generously sized. The other thing I really like about it is that it’s totally customizable.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4360\" data-end=\"4385\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4360\" data-end=\"4370\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Bacon and egg.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4387\" data-end=\"4671\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4387\" data-end=\"4406\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> I usually go for their dill, Swiss, and scallion biscuit. Then I’ll get cheddar cheese. And then for the spread, I go back and forth between either the garlic aioli or the lemon aioli. I think they both pack a lot of flavor. Just depends what I’m feeling that day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4673\" data-end=\"4727\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4673\" data-end=\"4692\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Depends if you’re kissing anybody.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4729\" data-end=\"4831\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4729\" data-end=\"4748\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Yes, exactly. Yeah. I’m curious. Did you guys get the sandwich when you guys went?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4833\" data-end=\"4879\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4833\" data-end=\"4852\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You got to have a biscuit.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4881\" data-end=\"5195\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4881\" data-end=\"4902\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> I didn’t get the sandwich, but I must have ordered like five biscuits and three of the scones. And my favorite was the bacon cheddar scallion. It was unbelievable. I don’t usually have bacon. It was delicious. It was bready without being over-chewy. Just absolutely delicious. What about you?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5197\" data-end=\"5922\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5197\" data-end=\"5215\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> 100% the biscuit sandwich. I got the traditional buttermilk biscuit with egg, added bacon with the garlic spread. And there are hamburgers that are smaller than this. And I think for me, what is super key about that is just how fluffy and light and delicious that egg was. And by the way, I feel like I’m a bacon connoisseur. The bacon there was particularly thick and crispy. Absolutely fantastic. I could tell that I was eating at a wonderful place, just by virtue of sitting next to these two gentlemen who got their sandwiches, opened up their bags, and made this guttural noise. It wasn’t — It wasn’t a word. It was sort of like a grunt. And I heard nothing from these guys for like five, six minutes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5924\" data-end=\"6161\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5924\" data-end=\"5943\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> I totally sympathize with those cavemen because the sandwiches come wrapped in foil, and it just feels like you’re unwrapping a present. Like, you tear it open. It’s hot. It’s fresh out the oven. Absolutely delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6163\" data-end=\"6276\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6163\" data-end=\"6181\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> We went back the next day just to say how wonderful this place was. We went back the next day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6278\" data-end=\"6323\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6278\" data-end=\"6297\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That is a true testament.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6325\" data-end=\"6367\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6325\" data-end=\"6343\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> Absolutely, absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6369\" data-end=\"7014\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6369\" data-end=\"6388\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> That makes me so happy. They also have a mushroom Gruyère croissant. It’s a square croissant and the crust is just perfectly flaky, like you want a croissant to be, really buttery with a very generous amount of filling in the middle. And the mushroom and Gruyère is such a great combination. They also have a cute little individual quiche of the day, and the crust is nice and thin, but still really flaky and buttery, so you get a good ratio of filling to crust. And the filling is really custardy soft, and they have a different flavor every day, so you never know what you’re going to get. But I haven’t gone wrong so far.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7016\" data-end=\"7243\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7016\" data-end=\"7034\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> The weekends is where you can get a cinnamon roll, and the icing that is on top of that cinnamon roll is baseball-like. It’s almost the size of a baseball itself, on top of this incredibly rich cinnamon roll.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7245\" data-end=\"7303\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7245\" data-end=\"7264\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Are you an unwinder of cinnamon rolls?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7305\" data-end=\"7494\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7305\" data-end=\"7323\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> No. Knife through the middle, knife through the middle of that. I want all of those flavors all at once — the middle of that bun, the icing that’s on top all in one bite.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7496\" data-end=\"7522\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7496\" data-end=\"7506\">Woman:\u003c/strong> It’s delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7524\" data-end=\"7826\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7524\" data-end=\"7545\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> I had the sour cherry almond scone. And what I love about it — I don’t like things that are, like, super sweet. And this was just the right touch of savory and sweet. There was a pop of almond in it. The cherries had like a nice chew to them and it was just a nice, crumbly scone.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7828\" data-end=\"7913\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7828\" data-end=\"7847\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now, what did you get to drink with it? Are you a coffee drinker?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7915\" data-end=\"8020\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7915\" data-end=\"7936\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> I am a coffee drinker. I got a delicious iced caffè latte with oat milk. Very good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8022\" data-end=\"8314\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8022\" data-end=\"8041\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> I’m actually not a big coffee drinker, but they have a really good European-style hot chocolate. Very decadent. It’s really thick, super chocolaty. It’s sweet, but not too sweet. So the richness isn’t overwhelming. It’s still manageable. And yeah, delicious on a cold day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8316\" data-end=\"8659\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8316\" data-end=\"8334\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> They have a pain au chocolat there. I loved the chocolate that was inside of it. There was a ton of it. I think the downfall of those kinds of pastries is that there’s not enough chocolate. At Kahnfections, they really do ensure that you get an incredible bite of chocolate with every bite of pain au chocolat that you have.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8661\" data-end=\"9059\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8661\" data-end=\"8680\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> They also have these fantastic mini cupcakes. My favorite is their carrot cake one. A great balance of frosting to cake, which I feel is very important for a cupcake and just packed full of raisins and spices. Super moist, really delicious, and just a tiny little bite. So, you know, if you’re already really full from your sandwich, you’re not going to put things over the top.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9061\" data-end=\"9559\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9061\" data-end=\"9079\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> I think one thing to note is there is a place to sit inside, but other than that, if you want to dine there, you are sitting outside. And on the morning that we went, it was a little bit chilly, so I had a tall cup of coffee. They had heavy cream, which is how I take my coffee, and it was perfect. As a matter of fact, they were kind enough to top it off a little bit when the breakfast sandwich arrived. Just another reason why this is a place I will return to again and again.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9561\" data-end=\"9622\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9561\" data-end=\"9582\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> I would definitely go back. Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9624\" data-end=\"9648\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9624\" data-end=\"9642\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> 100%.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9650\" data-end=\"9677\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9650\" data-end=\"9671\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9679\" data-end=\"9853\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9679\" data-end=\"9698\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. If you would like to try Kahnfections, it’s located on 20th Street in San Francisco, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $20.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"98\" data-end=\"353\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"98\" data-end=\"117\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Liza’s passion is plant-focused interior design. She loves to fill homes and workspaces with living art, so it’s no wonder her favorite restaurant has an equally plant-centric approach. Located in downtown Burlingame, it’s Twelvemonth.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"355\" data-end=\"370\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"372\" data-end=\"726\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"372\" data-end=\"387\">Bob Trahan:\u003c/strong> I think a lot of people have this general notion of vegan cuisine sort of being bland and just a lot of vegetables. When I set out to create Twelvemonth, I really wanted to create a destination for all of life’s occasions where the food was sort of incidentally plant-based. You know, it’s delicious, nutritious, and hey, it’s all plants.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"728\" data-end=\"757\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"728\" data-end=\"736\">Man:\u003c/strong> Mm, mm, that’s good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"759\" data-end=\"1176\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"759\" data-end=\"774\">Bob Trahan:\u003c/strong> I love our cuisine. It’s sort of global fusion through a California lens. I think a lot about sustainability. We really focus on microseasonal food and just truly unlock every flavor. This features Brentwood corn. It was picked this morning. We’re not the type of place that makes a tomato taste like fish. We’re the type of place that makes you say, “That’s the best tomato I’ve ever had in my life.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1178\" data-end=\"1193\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1178\" data-end=\"1188\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Mmm!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1195\" data-end=\"1485\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1195\" data-end=\"1210\">Bob Trahan:\u003c/strong> Other important aspects of sustainability come down to trying to use every part of everything, as well as reuse components that other places might consider, you know, used up. My favorite item in the menu is our bean stew. I intend to never, ever, ever take it off the menu.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1487\" data-end=\"1508\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1487\" data-end=\"1495\">Man:\u003c/strong> Good, buddy?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1510\" data-end=\"2240\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1510\" data-end=\"1525\">Bob Trahan:\u003c/strong> I love it. It’s a very long cooking process, but lots of love and thought along the way. If you’re thoughtful with every step from your broth to the finish, you can just infuse tons of flavor. We have a beautiful bar that has three lovely private rooms off them, and then our main dining room is just this huge, glorious space. But another thing I love about the space is actually the acoustics. There’s not as much echoing or loudness as you might expect. You can still have an intimate dinner with whoever. I hope when people experience Twelvemonth, it changes their opinion of vegan cuisine so they realize that plant-based food can be delicious. My favorite review is, “I’m an omnivore, but I love this place.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2242\" data-end=\"2424\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2242\" data-end=\"2261\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, Liza, it’s interesting that we’re getting, I think, more and more restaurants that are solely plant-focused and plant-forward. How did you discover this spot?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2426\" data-end=\"2712\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2426\" data-end=\"2447\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> So a friend of mine called me because I had been plant-based for a while and she said, “Have you been to that new place Twelvemonth in Burlingame?” And I said, “No, what, what, what, what?” And I immediately made a reservation and went over there. It is fantastic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2714\" data-end=\"2783\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2714\" data-end=\"2733\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What do you start with, with a menu of that size?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2785\" data-end=\"3100\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2785\" data-end=\"2806\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Our go-to is definitely the bean stew. It’s in a tomato broth. It’s got some kale and other spices and focaccia, which, oh, my God, just melts in your mouth. So, it gives you the impression that you’re eating beef. But it’s not. There’s nothing. It’s all plant-based. It’s really unbelievable.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3102\" data-end=\"3526\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3102\" data-end=\"3121\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> We also started with the bean stew. And can I just say from the first bite I was transported to another world. It was amazing. And I don’t eat a lot of meat, so maybe I’m not the best person to say this, but this tastes really meaty. It’s like very smoky. It has this really deep, rich flavor. This is so much more than just a pot of beans. So much more has gone into this to make it taste so incredible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3528\" data-end=\"3888\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3528\" data-end=\"3546\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> I really want to highlight their breaded mushrooms — very lightly breaded, dusted with a little bit of chili powder and the dip that it comes with, very similar to an aioli with a bit of spice. Not too much heat, but maybe a few seconds after your first or second bite. The mushrooms are an absolute don’t miss out because it was incredible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3890\" data-end=\"4372\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3890\" data-end=\"3909\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> We got the panzanella alla puttanesca. First of all, I love a bread-based salad. You really can’t go wrong there. But it’s focaccia and a lot of fresh tomato. And somehow the focaccia really absorbs all the delicious flavors and juice from the tomato, but still stays really crisp. And it has these crispy capers and pickled cucumbers in it. So you just have all these different bursts of flavor and different textures. It’s just this really fresh-tasting salad.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4374\" data-end=\"4580\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4374\" data-end=\"4395\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> I go for the charred cabbage salad. It’s, of course, extremely healthy. It’s got a nice little bite to it. The texture of it is great. The spice of it is really good. Did you try that?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4582\" data-end=\"4933\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4582\" data-end=\"4600\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> I didn’t, but I had what’s called the BBQ, the barbecue plate, which — meat eater from the Midwest — I know what I think I’m looking at, but it is actually a plate of lentils, and it comes with a barbecue sauce paired with some greens and some pears. And for me, the very first bite was a bit unique, certainly because I know what —\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4935\" data-end=\"4977\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4935\" data-end=\"4954\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> “This isn’t barbecue!”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4979\" data-end=\"5086\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4979\" data-end=\"4997\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> It’s not barbecue. By the second and third bite, I was eating just this incredible dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5088\" data-end=\"5490\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5088\" data-end=\"5107\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> As one of our entrées, we shared the corn pasta, which was amazing. It had so much fresh corn flavor. The sauce was so flavorful, and you had a lot in every bite. And there was this coconut feta on top, which added a little bit of extra flavor. They also had these Cajun corn cracklins over the top, which added a little bit of extra crunch and flavor to the dish. It was delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5492\" data-end=\"5863\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5492\" data-end=\"5510\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> My neighbor had the Japanese curry tofu served with rice, and the server comes out and pours the curry on top of the pieces of tofu. A little bit spicy, but certainly not something that would turn people off. It was a G-rated curry, as it were. [laughs] But again, a completely unique dish. And it made me forget that I was at a plant-based restaurant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5865\" data-end=\"6048\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5865\" data-end=\"5884\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> I had the not paella, which was like paella, but not. It’s actually just socarrat, which is the rice that’s, like, at the bottom of the pan and gets really crispy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6050\" data-end=\"6089\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6050\" data-end=\"6069\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It’s the best part.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6091\" data-end=\"6220\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6091\" data-end=\"6110\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> It’s the best part. And they just — they only have that in the dish. They just get rid of all the rest of it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6222\" data-end=\"6281\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6222\" data-end=\"6241\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It’s like eating the top of the muffin.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6283\" data-end=\"6586\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6283\" data-end=\"6302\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Yeah. Exactly. Exactly. And then it had really colorful sauces. It was a broccoli mayo and a romesco sauce. Had this, like, red and green going on and had lots of veggies in it. It was super crispy and just delicious. I’d never seen anything like that before. I was really impressed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6588\" data-end=\"6661\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6588\" data-end=\"6607\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And did you have anything to sip alongside your meal?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6663\" data-end=\"6854\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6663\" data-end=\"6684\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> I did. The flower spritz is delicious. Non-alcoholic elderflower, butterfly pea flower, some lemon, and club soda. Absolutely so refreshing, even actually in the winter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6856\" data-end=\"6884\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6856\" data-end=\"6866\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Ooh! I like that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6886\" data-end=\"7151\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6886\" data-end=\"6904\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> I had a drink called The Garden Party, which is made with a little bit of sparkling water, but flavors of cucumber and mint and some apple cider vinegar. Extremely refreshing. So for someone who doesn’t consume alcohol, this was a great beverage.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7153\" data-end=\"7216\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7153\" data-end=\"7172\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. More food. What else did you have?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7218\" data-end=\"7493\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7218\" data-end=\"7239\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Dessert. We have got to talk about the dessert. The chocolate dessert actually comes in a little flower pot near and dear to my heart. And a little shovel. You can’t — Like, we are all grabbing for it. It’s quite rich and dense and absolutely delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7495\" data-end=\"7540\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7495\" data-end=\"7514\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And creatively presented.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7542\" data-end=\"7576\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7542\" data-end=\"7563\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Beautifully.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7578\" data-end=\"7827\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7578\" data-end=\"7597\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> We also got the toasted red miso cake, which was a little bit on the salty side for me, but still delicious, really unique flavors. And it came with this berry coulis, which was a really great way to kind of balance out the miso.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7829\" data-end=\"8068\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7829\" data-end=\"7847\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> I didn’t have room for dessert. I will have to go back to try some of these because it sounds incredible, but it also goes to show just how great the meal itself was because I was so satisfied that I just couldn’t do it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8070\" data-end=\"8229\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8070\" data-end=\"8089\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I thought each dish was so creative. Really, things I hadn’t tried before, and I would definitely recommend it to friends and family.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8231\" data-end=\"8403\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8231\" data-end=\"8250\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. If you would like to try Twelvemonth, it’s located on Lorton Avenue in Burlingame, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $75.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"113\" data-end=\"369\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"113\" data-end=\"132\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Chris is a big meat and potatoes guy, and he’s now found a Peruvian take on that classic combination that he can’t get enough of. Anytime he’s craving a savory lomo saltado, he heads to Oakland’s Rockridge neighborhood, home to Pucquio.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"371\" data-end=\"386\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"388\" data-end=\"1120\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"388\" data-end=\"407\">Carlos Moreira:\u003c/strong> I’m making the dressing for the potato for your next course. The flavors of Peru are limitless. There are different regions. There’s the coast, there’s sea, there’s land, there’s highlands. As a Peruvian and as a cook, we want to send a message to the people. We wanted to introduce them to our culture. The kitchen of Pucquio tries to evoke all the flavors from Peru, from most of the staple dishes that we have there, but since we’re in California, we added an additional twist to it. A good example of that will be the tacu-tacu de mariscos, our interpretation of a classic Peruvian dish, but made completely different with beurre blanc on it and different elements that we get from our “stash” in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1122\" data-end=\"1480\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1122\" data-end=\"1141\">Carlos Moreira:\u003c/strong> One of the most representative dishes in our cuisine is the ceviche, without a doubt. It’s a ritual. The Mochicas probably were the first humans to start fishing and marinate raw fish. We admire and appreciate more about the freshness of the fish itself and how the nuances of that fish are brought by combining with the spice and citrus.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1482\" data-end=\"1821\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1482\" data-end=\"1501\">Carlos Moreira:\u003c/strong> One of our desserts, bombitas de carretilla, it brings me a lot of memories from my childhood in every aspect. Similar to a beignet, but we stuff it with fermented sweet potato and dulce de leche. My favorite item on the menu is every single one of them. They’re like my kids. I might have a favorite. I won’t tell you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1823\" data-end=\"2112\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1823\" data-end=\"1842\">Carlos Moreira:\u003c/strong> The name of the restaurant, Pucquio, is Quechua for “spring water,” and for us it’s a reflection of something pure and transparent, which is our mission to our community. Hello, hello. I really hope they feel touched, satisfied, happy, and raving about this restaurant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2114\" data-end=\"2129\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2131\" data-end=\"2275\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2131\" data-end=\"2150\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, Chris, talk about what’s unique about this space, right? A very intimate dining room and that open sort of kitchen feel.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2277\" data-end=\"2403\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2277\" data-end=\"2295\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> For sure. One thing about Pucquio that I love is that the interior seats about 18 people. It is very small.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2405\" data-end=\"2451\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2405\" data-end=\"2424\">Carlos Moreira:\u003c/strong> You know where to find me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2453\" data-end=\"2581\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2453\" data-end=\"2471\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> And there are four seats at the pass where you can sit and watch the chef and the sous chef work their magic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2583\" data-end=\"2686\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2583\" data-end=\"2602\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So what do you get when you walk in that door and you start smelling all that food?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2688\" data-end=\"3248\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2688\" data-end=\"2706\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> The first thing we have is the cebiche de clásico. This dish is made with a wonderfully flavored rockfish. It sits on a bed of greens with some red onions and Peruvian nuts that give every bite that you have just a little bit of crunch, a little bit of texture. They serve this dish with a relatively large spoon. But for me, because I think lifting the plate and drinking from it is a bit rude, I can at least scoop some of that citric juice and just sort of finish my ceviche with that, which is a great way to end that particular starter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3250\" data-end=\"3504\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3250\" data-end=\"3269\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> We also started with the cebiche de pescado, and it was amazing. And I especially loved how the marinade is, as you said, very, very acidic. I felt the sweet potato really balanced that out and made it overall a really delicious dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3506\" data-end=\"3556\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3506\" data-end=\"3525\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you use the big spoon too?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3558\" data-end=\"3756\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3558\" data-end=\"3577\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> I did use the big spoon to get the extra juice. And the Peruvian corn is so fun. I’ve never seen corn kernels that big before, but it really adds that extra bite and fun texture.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3758\" data-end=\"3918\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3758\" data-end=\"3779\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> So actually, I just want to jump in and talk about Kevin, who was actually our welcome wagon when we first got there. He is exceptional…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3920\" data-end=\"3962\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3920\" data-end=\"3930\">Kevin:\u003c/strong> This is coming from Susanville.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3964\" data-end=\"4367\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3964\" data-end=\"3985\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> …describing everything because it was one of my first times having Peruvian cuisine. So, my appetizer was the cebiche de truchae, which actually had a little bit of skin. It had fennel, yucca, and a little bit of caviar. And I loved there was a lot of acidity to it, but it was a combination of like the lemon and lime and some of the green leaves, which made it extremely tasty.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4369\" data-end=\"4412\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4369\" data-end=\"4388\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What about you, Manali?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4414\" data-end=\"4840\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4414\" data-end=\"4433\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> We got two entrées, so one of them was the arroz de mariscos, which was a Peruvian take on paella. Delicious. It had Gulf prawns, squid, and rockfish in it. And the arroz, the rice had squid ink in it as well, so it was super creamy. It had that fun, you know, dark black color that you get with squid ink. Really incredible. And, again, it had that Peruvian corn in it that I’m just totally obsessed with.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4842\" data-end=\"4929\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4842\" data-end=\"4863\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Kevin actually explained that there are 84 types of corn in Peru.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4931\" data-end=\"4964\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4931\" data-end=\"4950\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> That’s a lot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4966\" data-end=\"5007\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4966\" data-end=\"4987\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Yeah. That’s a lot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5009\" data-end=\"5482\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5009\" data-end=\"5028\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Our second one, we got the tacu-tacu de mariscos, which was more of a rice and beans dish. They sound very similar, both like rice with different types of seafood, but very different in terms of the flavor. The rice and beans were cooked so perfectly. The beans were really tender. And it came with this beurre vert, which was this very herbaceous green sauce that was also very creamy and went great with the very fresh seafood that was served with it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5484\" data-end=\"5747\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5484\" data-end=\"5505\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> So, we also had the chupe de camarones, which is — it’s like a cross between like a shrimp bisque and a shrimp chowder, and it comes with like a poached egg. It comes with some rice, and it’s a complex taste. It’s delicious. Don’t miss that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5749\" data-end=\"5808\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5749\" data-end=\"5768\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. From the ceviche, what’s next?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5810\" data-end=\"6207\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5810\" data-end=\"5828\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> It is definitely a meat-centric, protein-centric restaurant. And so the lomo saltado is a marinated steak served with steak fries, white rice, some marinated tomatoes and onions, and if you wish, you can get a fried egg on top of the rice, so you can have all these various flavors in each bite that you have of the lomo saltado. And then you realize, “Holy cow, it’s all gone.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6209\" data-end=\"6264\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6209\" data-end=\"6228\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> This isn’t just steak and potatoes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6266\" data-end=\"6300\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6266\" data-end=\"6284\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> Absolutely not.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6302\" data-end=\"6351\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6302\" data-end=\"6321\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Any other main dishes to try?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6353\" data-end=\"6862\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6353\" data-end=\"6371\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> Yes, the adobo de chancho is a pork dish that when you are served this dish, Kevin will bring you your silverware, which is a fork and a spoon. Rarely, if ever, have I gone to a restaurant where there is no knife, because the pork is so soft and tender that you use the spoon with the fork to break it apart, and then it’s paired with these braised beans, small pieces of pork belly, and red onions that create this multi-textural bite. And it’s melt-in-your-mouth pork, an incredible dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6864\" data-end=\"6891\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6864\" data-end=\"6883\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Mm-hmm.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6893\" data-end=\"7197\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6893\" data-end=\"6911\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> They have a beverage called the maracuya, which is a passion fruit drink. And that to me is a sipping drink that you can enjoy throughout the entire meal. I say that as someone who often gets two with every dining experience, but it’s fantastically sweet and rich as a beverage can be.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7199\" data-end=\"7391\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7199\" data-end=\"7218\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I had the spritz del dia, which I guess was kind of an aperitivo of the day. Delicious. Had a nice flavor. It was very light, refreshing, and went well with the meal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7393\" data-end=\"7693\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7393\" data-end=\"7414\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> So, we wanted to have a Chardonnay, which Kevin said they don’t carry, and he made a recommendation, and it was such an amazing recommendation. I want to say it’s called the Rebolledo. I’m not sure about the pronunciation. We ended up having two bottles. That’s how good it was.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7695\" data-end=\"7745\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7695\" data-end=\"7713\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> That’s awesome. That’s awesome.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7747\" data-end=\"7843\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7747\" data-end=\"7766\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Can’t remember the name after the first bottle. Alright. Desserts. Desserts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7845\" data-end=\"8148\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7845\" data-end=\"7864\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> We got the bombitas, which were these little doughnut holes. They were so fresh. Super hot. They were filled with dulce de leche and then came with a pisco crème anglaise, which was great because it had just a little bit of sour to kind of cut through the sweetness of the doughnuts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8150\" data-end=\"8205\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8150\" data-end=\"8169\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It sounds like a must-have dessert.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8207\" data-end=\"8233\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8207\" data-end=\"8228\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8235\" data-end=\"8267\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8235\" data-end=\"8254\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Any dessert?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8269\" data-end=\"8362\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8269\" data-end=\"8290\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> That was my must-have dessert as well. Like, the four of us split that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8364\" data-end=\"8411\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8364\" data-end=\"8383\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So would you go back again?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8413\" data-end=\"8446\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8413\" data-end=\"8434\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8448\" data-end=\"8685\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8448\" data-end=\"8467\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Yeah. I totally agree with you. It was an interesting experience where it felt like a very upscale experience. But at the same time, I felt like I was in someone’s home. It was — It’s hard to balance those two things.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8687\" data-end=\"8731\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8687\" data-end=\"8706\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Quite a passion project.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8733\" data-end=\"8763\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8733\" data-end=\"8751\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8765\" data-end=\"8952\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8765\" data-end=\"8784\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. If you would like to try Pucquio, it’s located on College Avenue in Oakland’s Rockridge neighborhood. The average tab per person without drinks is around $45.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8954\" data-end=\"9090\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8954\" data-end=\"8973\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Looking for more Bay Area bites you’ve just got to try? Check out “Cecilia Tries It” online at kqed.org/checkplease.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9092\" data-end=\"9604\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9092\" data-end=\"9111\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I have to thank my great guests on this week’s show — \u003cstrong data-start=\"9166\" data-end=\"9184\">Manali Gokhale\u003c/strong>, lover of the hot buttermilk biscuits at Kahnfections in San Francisco, \u003cstrong data-start=\"9257\" data-end=\"9277\">Liza Fiorentinos\u003c/strong>, who savors every drop of bean stew at Twelvemonth in Burlingame, and \u003cstrong data-start=\"9348\" data-end=\"9365\">Chris Carroll\u003c/strong>, who adores the adobo de chancho at Pucquio in Oakland. Join us next time when three more guests will recommend their favorite spots right here on \u003cem data-start=\"9513\" data-end=\"9539\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em> I’m \u003cstrong data-start=\"9544\" data-end=\"9562\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>, and I’ll see you then. Cheers, everyone.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9606\" data-end=\"9622\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9606\" data-end=\"9614\">All:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9624\" data-end=\"9885\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9624\" data-end=\"9633\">Judy Khan:\u003c/strong> We just really enjoy doing whatever we can to make people happy. We usually have at least two cakes in the pastry case, mini cupcakes, mini tarts, the typical cookies and brownies, and things like that. I really enjoy watching people enjoy their food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9887\" data-end=\"9923\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9887\" data-end=\"9897\">Woman:\u003c/strong> This sandwich is so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9925\" data-end=\"9962\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9925\" data-end=\"9934\">Judy Khan:\u003c/strong> That’s what does it for me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9964\" data-end=\"10004\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9964\" data-end=\"9972\">Man:\u003c/strong> Do the whole thing in one bite.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"10006\" data-end=\"10053\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"10006\" data-end=\"10017\">Man #2:\u003c/strong> One bite’s a little much, actually.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"10055\" data-end=\"10077\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"10055\" data-end=\"10066\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/em>season 20, episode 4, airs Thursday, May 1, at 7:30 pm, on KQED 9. See other \u003ca href=\"http://www.kqed.org/tv/programs/index.jsp?pgmid=14084\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">television airtimes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Nestled in San Francisco’s Mission District, \u003cstrong>Kahnfections\u003c/strong> is a beloved bakery that fills the air with the mouthwatering scents of butter and sugar each morning. Regulars swear by the chocolate croissants, glazed cinnamon rolls, and the indulgent bacon-cheddar-scallion biscuit sandwiches, each made with the kind of care that only a true neighborhood spot can offer. Down the Peninsula in Burlingame, \u003cstrong>Twelvemonth\u003c/strong> is elevating sustainable and plant-based dining in a sleek and elegant space. Diners are treated to creative, vegetable-driven dishes like crispy maitake mushrooms, the umami-packed panzanella alla puttanesca, and a surprisingly rich potted pudding served with chocolate custard, edible “soil” and hazelnut praline. Finally, in Oakland’s Rockridge neighborhood, \u003cstrong>Pucquio\u003c/strong> transports diners to Peru with its vibrant flavors that feature indigenous ingredients. The cebiche de pescado, featuring pristine fish and sweet potato bathed in citrus and spice, is a masterclass in balance, while the chupe de camarones, a rich, deeply comforting shrimp bisque, showcases the depth of Peruvian cuisine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_23481\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-23481 size-medium\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/05/2004_Guests-800x533.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/05/2004_Guests-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/05/2004_Guests-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/05/2004_Guests-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/05/2004_Guests-768x512.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/05/2004_Guests-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/05/2004_Guests.png 1620w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco joins guests Manali Gokhale, Chris Carroll and Liza Fiorentinos from KQED in San Francisco.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Get Restaurant Information:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://kahnfections.com/\">\u003cstrong>Kahnfections\u003c/strong> (San Francisco)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.twelvemonthburlingame.com/\">\u003cstrong>Twelvemonth\u003c/strong> (Burlingame)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.pucquio.com/\">\u003cstrong>Pucquio \u003c/strong>(Oakland)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>Episode Transcript\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"183\" data-end=\"247\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"183\" data-end=\"202\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Breakfast biscuit heaven in San Francisco…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"249\" data-end=\"299\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"249\" data-end=\"268\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> It’s so fantastically buttery.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"301\" data-end=\"363\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"301\" data-end=\"320\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Plant-forward fine dining in Burlingame…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"365\" data-end=\"446\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"365\" data-end=\"386\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> I said, “What, what, what, what?” It’s really unbelievable.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"448\" data-end=\"512\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"448\" data-end=\"467\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And contemporary Peruvian plates in Oakland.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"514\" data-end=\"572\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"514\" data-end=\"532\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> You realize, “Holy cow, it’s all gone.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"574\" data-end=\"669\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"574\" data-end=\"593\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Just ahead on \u003cem data-start=\"608\" data-end=\"634\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em> Like eating the top of the muffin.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"671\" data-end=\"705\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"671\" data-end=\"690\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Yeah, exactly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"707\" data-end=\"722\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"724\" data-end=\"1257\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"724\" data-end=\"743\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Hi, I’m Leslie Sbrocco. Welcome to \u003cem data-start=\"779\" data-end=\"805\">Check, Please! Bay Area,\u003c/em> the show where Bay Area residents review and talk about their favorite restaurants. Now, we have three guests, and each one recommends one of their favorite spots and the other two go check them out to see what they think. Joining me at the \u003cem data-start=\"1047\" data-end=\"1063\">Check, Please!\u003c/em> table today are clean-energy program manager \u003cstrong data-start=\"1109\" data-end=\"1127\">Manali Gokhale\u003c/strong>, plant business owner \u003cstrong data-start=\"1150\" data-end=\"1170\">Liza Fiorentinos\u003c/strong>, and high school teacher \u003cstrong data-start=\"1196\" data-end=\"1213\">Chris Carroll\u003c/strong>. Welcome, everyone. Ready for a great show?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1259\" data-end=\"1282\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1259\" data-end=\"1277\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1284\" data-end=\"1322\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1284\" data-end=\"1305\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Yes, absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1324\" data-end=\"1586\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1324\" data-end=\"1343\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Manali’s breakfast spot is proof-positive that good things come in small packages. It’s a tiny bakery that packs big flavors into hot, buttery, build-your-own biscuit sandwiches. Located in San Francisco’s Mission District, it’s Kahnfections.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1588\" data-end=\"1603\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1605\" data-end=\"1691\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1605\" data-end=\"1614\">Mark Kahn:\u003c/strong> I think a bakery can really be a community gathering spot. It is happy food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1693\" data-end=\"1801\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1693\" data-end=\"1702\">Judy Kahn:\u003c/strong> Nobody comes into a bakery in a bad mood. Or if they do, they tend to leave in a much better mood.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1803\" data-end=\"1818\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1820\" data-end=\"2224\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1820\" data-end=\"1829\">Judy Kahn:\u003c/strong> Kahnfections is kind of old-school American meets French. Our best seller, carrot cake, was kind of the impetus behind what was going to be at Kahnfections. But then when I went to pastry school, I really fell in love with croissants and making them. And we do 10 different varieties. Our scones are baked with a house-made scone glaze, just that finishing touch that put it right over the top.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2226\" data-end=\"2376\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2226\" data-end=\"2235\">Mark Kahn:\u003c/strong> It’s really hard to find a good breakfast sandwich, particularly on a buttermilk biscuit, and that’s kind of a thing we’ve become known for.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2378\" data-end=\"2513\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2378\" data-end=\"2387\">Judy Kahn:\u003c/strong> We make our eggs fresh to order in a kind of French omelet style, so that it takes on a little bit of a soufflé-like texture.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2515\" data-end=\"2589\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2515\" data-end=\"2525\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Each breakfast sandwich roughly gets about one and a half eggs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2591\" data-end=\"2726\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2591\" data-end=\"2600\">Judy Kahn:\u003c/strong> I think the key to a good biscuit is not overworking the dough and doing it by hand. We make about 1,200 biscuits every week.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2728\" data-end=\"2768\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2728\" data-end=\"2737\">Mark Kahn:\u003c/strong> That’s 50,000 biscuits a year.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2770\" data-end=\"2891\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2770\" data-end=\"2779\">Judy Kahn:\u003c/strong> That’s a lot of biscuits. That’s a lot of butter. Some of our most loyal customers are the four-legged variety.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2893\" data-end=\"2944\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2893\" data-end=\"2902\">Mark Kahn:\u003c/strong> Yeah, we do have house-made dog biscuits.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2946\" data-end=\"3012\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2946\" data-end=\"2955\">Judy Kahn:\u003c/strong> People tell us that their dogs bring them to the bakery.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3014\" data-end=\"3126\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3014\" data-end=\"3023\">Mark Kahn:\u003c/strong> We do like the furry friends. We have people who come by every day. This is their morning coffee spot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3128\" data-end=\"3153\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3128\" data-end=\"3138\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Vanilla latte?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3155\" data-end=\"3571\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3155\" data-end=\"3164\">Mark Kahn:\u003c/strong> They’ll grab a table and they’ll be out there for an hour and a half, and we love that. We’ve been approached, “Oh, you know, do you want to do, like, a ghost kitchen where you can make your sandwiches and we’ll deliver them out everywhere?” I was like, “No, we don’t want to do that.” We like to see people eat the food and get satisfaction out of it. We get satisfaction out of them getting satisfaction.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3573\" data-end=\"3701\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3573\" data-end=\"3582\">Judy Kahn:\u003c/strong> We just really love that we’ve become part of these people’s lives. We appreciate them so much and they appreciate us.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3703\" data-end=\"3718\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3720\" data-end=\"3836\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3720\" data-end=\"3739\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, Manali, when you go for breakfast, do you tend towards the sweet or the savory or a mixture?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3838\" data-end=\"4358\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3838\" data-end=\"3857\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Ideally, I really like to have both, and they actually have a pretty wide variety of your classic pastries, you know, croissants, muffins, scones. But what made me really fall in love with it is their breakfast sandwich. It’s an egg and cheese on a biscuit. But this is no ordinary biscuit. It’s almost indescribable but I’m going to try. It’s soft, it’s fluffy, it’s so fantastically buttery and also really generously sized. The other thing I really like about it is that it’s totally customizable.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4360\" data-end=\"4385\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4360\" data-end=\"4370\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Bacon and egg.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4387\" data-end=\"4671\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4387\" data-end=\"4406\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> I usually go for their dill, Swiss, and scallion biscuit. Then I’ll get cheddar cheese. And then for the spread, I go back and forth between either the garlic aioli or the lemon aioli. I think they both pack a lot of flavor. Just depends what I’m feeling that day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4673\" data-end=\"4727\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4673\" data-end=\"4692\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Depends if you’re kissing anybody.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4729\" data-end=\"4831\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4729\" data-end=\"4748\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Yes, exactly. Yeah. I’m curious. Did you guys get the sandwich when you guys went?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4833\" data-end=\"4879\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4833\" data-end=\"4852\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You got to have a biscuit.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4881\" data-end=\"5195\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4881\" data-end=\"4902\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> I didn’t get the sandwich, but I must have ordered like five biscuits and three of the scones. And my favorite was the bacon cheddar scallion. It was unbelievable. I don’t usually have bacon. It was delicious. It was bready without being over-chewy. Just absolutely delicious. What about you?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5197\" data-end=\"5922\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5197\" data-end=\"5215\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> 100% the biscuit sandwich. I got the traditional buttermilk biscuit with egg, added bacon with the garlic spread. And there are hamburgers that are smaller than this. And I think for me, what is super key about that is just how fluffy and light and delicious that egg was. And by the way, I feel like I’m a bacon connoisseur. The bacon there was particularly thick and crispy. Absolutely fantastic. I could tell that I was eating at a wonderful place, just by virtue of sitting next to these two gentlemen who got their sandwiches, opened up their bags, and made this guttural noise. It wasn’t — It wasn’t a word. It was sort of like a grunt. And I heard nothing from these guys for like five, six minutes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5924\" data-end=\"6161\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5924\" data-end=\"5943\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> I totally sympathize with those cavemen because the sandwiches come wrapped in foil, and it just feels like you’re unwrapping a present. Like, you tear it open. It’s hot. It’s fresh out the oven. Absolutely delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6163\" data-end=\"6276\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6163\" data-end=\"6181\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> We went back the next day just to say how wonderful this place was. We went back the next day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6278\" data-end=\"6323\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6278\" data-end=\"6297\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That is a true testament.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6325\" data-end=\"6367\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6325\" data-end=\"6343\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> Absolutely, absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6369\" data-end=\"7014\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6369\" data-end=\"6388\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> That makes me so happy. They also have a mushroom Gruyère croissant. It’s a square croissant and the crust is just perfectly flaky, like you want a croissant to be, really buttery with a very generous amount of filling in the middle. And the mushroom and Gruyère is such a great combination. They also have a cute little individual quiche of the day, and the crust is nice and thin, but still really flaky and buttery, so you get a good ratio of filling to crust. And the filling is really custardy soft, and they have a different flavor every day, so you never know what you’re going to get. But I haven’t gone wrong so far.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7016\" data-end=\"7243\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7016\" data-end=\"7034\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> The weekends is where you can get a cinnamon roll, and the icing that is on top of that cinnamon roll is baseball-like. It’s almost the size of a baseball itself, on top of this incredibly rich cinnamon roll.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7245\" data-end=\"7303\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7245\" data-end=\"7264\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Are you an unwinder of cinnamon rolls?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7305\" data-end=\"7494\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7305\" data-end=\"7323\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> No. Knife through the middle, knife through the middle of that. I want all of those flavors all at once — the middle of that bun, the icing that’s on top all in one bite.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7496\" data-end=\"7522\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7496\" data-end=\"7506\">Woman:\u003c/strong> It’s delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7524\" data-end=\"7826\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7524\" data-end=\"7545\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> I had the sour cherry almond scone. And what I love about it — I don’t like things that are, like, super sweet. And this was just the right touch of savory and sweet. There was a pop of almond in it. The cherries had like a nice chew to them and it was just a nice, crumbly scone.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7828\" data-end=\"7913\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7828\" data-end=\"7847\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now, what did you get to drink with it? Are you a coffee drinker?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7915\" data-end=\"8020\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7915\" data-end=\"7936\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> I am a coffee drinker. I got a delicious iced caffè latte with oat milk. Very good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8022\" data-end=\"8314\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8022\" data-end=\"8041\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> I’m actually not a big coffee drinker, but they have a really good European-style hot chocolate. Very decadent. It’s really thick, super chocolaty. It’s sweet, but not too sweet. So the richness isn’t overwhelming. It’s still manageable. And yeah, delicious on a cold day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8316\" data-end=\"8659\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8316\" data-end=\"8334\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> They have a pain au chocolat there. I loved the chocolate that was inside of it. There was a ton of it. I think the downfall of those kinds of pastries is that there’s not enough chocolate. At Kahnfections, they really do ensure that you get an incredible bite of chocolate with every bite of pain au chocolat that you have.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8661\" data-end=\"9059\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8661\" data-end=\"8680\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> They also have these fantastic mini cupcakes. My favorite is their carrot cake one. A great balance of frosting to cake, which I feel is very important for a cupcake and just packed full of raisins and spices. Super moist, really delicious, and just a tiny little bite. So, you know, if you’re already really full from your sandwich, you’re not going to put things over the top.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9061\" data-end=\"9559\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9061\" data-end=\"9079\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> I think one thing to note is there is a place to sit inside, but other than that, if you want to dine there, you are sitting outside. And on the morning that we went, it was a little bit chilly, so I had a tall cup of coffee. They had heavy cream, which is how I take my coffee, and it was perfect. As a matter of fact, they were kind enough to top it off a little bit when the breakfast sandwich arrived. Just another reason why this is a place I will return to again and again.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9561\" data-end=\"9622\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9561\" data-end=\"9582\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> I would definitely go back. Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9624\" data-end=\"9648\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9624\" data-end=\"9642\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> 100%.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9650\" data-end=\"9677\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9650\" data-end=\"9671\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9679\" data-end=\"9853\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9679\" data-end=\"9698\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. If you would like to try Kahnfections, it’s located on 20th Street in San Francisco, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $20.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"98\" data-end=\"353\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"98\" data-end=\"117\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Liza’s passion is plant-focused interior design. She loves to fill homes and workspaces with living art, so it’s no wonder her favorite restaurant has an equally plant-centric approach. Located in downtown Burlingame, it’s Twelvemonth.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"355\" data-end=\"370\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"372\" data-end=\"726\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"372\" data-end=\"387\">Bob Trahan:\u003c/strong> I think a lot of people have this general notion of vegan cuisine sort of being bland and just a lot of vegetables. When I set out to create Twelvemonth, I really wanted to create a destination for all of life’s occasions where the food was sort of incidentally plant-based. You know, it’s delicious, nutritious, and hey, it’s all plants.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"728\" data-end=\"757\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"728\" data-end=\"736\">Man:\u003c/strong> Mm, mm, that’s good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"759\" data-end=\"1176\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"759\" data-end=\"774\">Bob Trahan:\u003c/strong> I love our cuisine. It’s sort of global fusion through a California lens. I think a lot about sustainability. We really focus on microseasonal food and just truly unlock every flavor. This features Brentwood corn. It was picked this morning. We’re not the type of place that makes a tomato taste like fish. We’re the type of place that makes you say, “That’s the best tomato I’ve ever had in my life.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1178\" data-end=\"1193\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1178\" data-end=\"1188\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Mmm!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1195\" data-end=\"1485\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1195\" data-end=\"1210\">Bob Trahan:\u003c/strong> Other important aspects of sustainability come down to trying to use every part of everything, as well as reuse components that other places might consider, you know, used up. My favorite item in the menu is our bean stew. I intend to never, ever, ever take it off the menu.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1487\" data-end=\"1508\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1487\" data-end=\"1495\">Man:\u003c/strong> Good, buddy?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1510\" data-end=\"2240\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1510\" data-end=\"1525\">Bob Trahan:\u003c/strong> I love it. It’s a very long cooking process, but lots of love and thought along the way. If you’re thoughtful with every step from your broth to the finish, you can just infuse tons of flavor. We have a beautiful bar that has three lovely private rooms off them, and then our main dining room is just this huge, glorious space. But another thing I love about the space is actually the acoustics. There’s not as much echoing or loudness as you might expect. You can still have an intimate dinner with whoever. I hope when people experience Twelvemonth, it changes their opinion of vegan cuisine so they realize that plant-based food can be delicious. My favorite review is, “I’m an omnivore, but I love this place.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2242\" data-end=\"2424\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2242\" data-end=\"2261\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, Liza, it’s interesting that we’re getting, I think, more and more restaurants that are solely plant-focused and plant-forward. How did you discover this spot?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2426\" data-end=\"2712\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2426\" data-end=\"2447\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> So a friend of mine called me because I had been plant-based for a while and she said, “Have you been to that new place Twelvemonth in Burlingame?” And I said, “No, what, what, what, what?” And I immediately made a reservation and went over there. It is fantastic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2714\" data-end=\"2783\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2714\" data-end=\"2733\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What do you start with, with a menu of that size?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2785\" data-end=\"3100\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2785\" data-end=\"2806\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Our go-to is definitely the bean stew. It’s in a tomato broth. It’s got some kale and other spices and focaccia, which, oh, my God, just melts in your mouth. So, it gives you the impression that you’re eating beef. But it’s not. There’s nothing. It’s all plant-based. It’s really unbelievable.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3102\" data-end=\"3526\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3102\" data-end=\"3121\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> We also started with the bean stew. And can I just say from the first bite I was transported to another world. It was amazing. And I don’t eat a lot of meat, so maybe I’m not the best person to say this, but this tastes really meaty. It’s like very smoky. It has this really deep, rich flavor. This is so much more than just a pot of beans. So much more has gone into this to make it taste so incredible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3528\" data-end=\"3888\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3528\" data-end=\"3546\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> I really want to highlight their breaded mushrooms — very lightly breaded, dusted with a little bit of chili powder and the dip that it comes with, very similar to an aioli with a bit of spice. Not too much heat, but maybe a few seconds after your first or second bite. The mushrooms are an absolute don’t miss out because it was incredible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3890\" data-end=\"4372\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3890\" data-end=\"3909\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> We got the panzanella alla puttanesca. First of all, I love a bread-based salad. You really can’t go wrong there. But it’s focaccia and a lot of fresh tomato. And somehow the focaccia really absorbs all the delicious flavors and juice from the tomato, but still stays really crisp. And it has these crispy capers and pickled cucumbers in it. So you just have all these different bursts of flavor and different textures. It’s just this really fresh-tasting salad.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4374\" data-end=\"4580\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4374\" data-end=\"4395\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> I go for the charred cabbage salad. It’s, of course, extremely healthy. It’s got a nice little bite to it. The texture of it is great. The spice of it is really good. Did you try that?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4582\" data-end=\"4933\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4582\" data-end=\"4600\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> I didn’t, but I had what’s called the BBQ, the barbecue plate, which — meat eater from the Midwest — I know what I think I’m looking at, but it is actually a plate of lentils, and it comes with a barbecue sauce paired with some greens and some pears. And for me, the very first bite was a bit unique, certainly because I know what —\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4935\" data-end=\"4977\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4935\" data-end=\"4954\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> “This isn’t barbecue!”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4979\" data-end=\"5086\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4979\" data-end=\"4997\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> It’s not barbecue. By the second and third bite, I was eating just this incredible dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5088\" data-end=\"5490\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5088\" data-end=\"5107\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> As one of our entrées, we shared the corn pasta, which was amazing. It had so much fresh corn flavor. The sauce was so flavorful, and you had a lot in every bite. And there was this coconut feta on top, which added a little bit of extra flavor. They also had these Cajun corn cracklins over the top, which added a little bit of extra crunch and flavor to the dish. It was delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5492\" data-end=\"5863\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5492\" data-end=\"5510\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> My neighbor had the Japanese curry tofu served with rice, and the server comes out and pours the curry on top of the pieces of tofu. A little bit spicy, but certainly not something that would turn people off. It was a G-rated curry, as it were. [laughs] But again, a completely unique dish. And it made me forget that I was at a plant-based restaurant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5865\" data-end=\"6048\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5865\" data-end=\"5884\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> I had the not paella, which was like paella, but not. It’s actually just socarrat, which is the rice that’s, like, at the bottom of the pan and gets really crispy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6050\" data-end=\"6089\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6050\" data-end=\"6069\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It’s the best part.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6091\" data-end=\"6220\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6091\" data-end=\"6110\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> It’s the best part. And they just — they only have that in the dish. They just get rid of all the rest of it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6222\" data-end=\"6281\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6222\" data-end=\"6241\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It’s like eating the top of the muffin.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6283\" data-end=\"6586\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6283\" data-end=\"6302\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Yeah. Exactly. Exactly. And then it had really colorful sauces. It was a broccoli mayo and a romesco sauce. Had this, like, red and green going on and had lots of veggies in it. It was super crispy and just delicious. I’d never seen anything like that before. I was really impressed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6588\" data-end=\"6661\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6588\" data-end=\"6607\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And did you have anything to sip alongside your meal?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6663\" data-end=\"6854\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6663\" data-end=\"6684\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> I did. The flower spritz is delicious. Non-alcoholic elderflower, butterfly pea flower, some lemon, and club soda. Absolutely so refreshing, even actually in the winter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6856\" data-end=\"6884\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6856\" data-end=\"6866\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Ooh! I like that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6886\" data-end=\"7151\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6886\" data-end=\"6904\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> I had a drink called The Garden Party, which is made with a little bit of sparkling water, but flavors of cucumber and mint and some apple cider vinegar. Extremely refreshing. So for someone who doesn’t consume alcohol, this was a great beverage.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7153\" data-end=\"7216\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7153\" data-end=\"7172\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. More food. What else did you have?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7218\" data-end=\"7493\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7218\" data-end=\"7239\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Dessert. We have got to talk about the dessert. The chocolate dessert actually comes in a little flower pot near and dear to my heart. And a little shovel. You can’t — Like, we are all grabbing for it. It’s quite rich and dense and absolutely delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7495\" data-end=\"7540\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7495\" data-end=\"7514\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And creatively presented.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7542\" data-end=\"7576\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7542\" data-end=\"7563\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Beautifully.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7578\" data-end=\"7827\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7578\" data-end=\"7597\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> We also got the toasted red miso cake, which was a little bit on the salty side for me, but still delicious, really unique flavors. And it came with this berry coulis, which was a really great way to kind of balance out the miso.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7829\" data-end=\"8068\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7829\" data-end=\"7847\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> I didn’t have room for dessert. I will have to go back to try some of these because it sounds incredible, but it also goes to show just how great the meal itself was because I was so satisfied that I just couldn’t do it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8070\" data-end=\"8229\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8070\" data-end=\"8089\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I thought each dish was so creative. Really, things I hadn’t tried before, and I would definitely recommend it to friends and family.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8231\" data-end=\"8403\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8231\" data-end=\"8250\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. If you would like to try Twelvemonth, it’s located on Lorton Avenue in Burlingame, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $75.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"113\" data-end=\"369\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"113\" data-end=\"132\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Chris is a big meat and potatoes guy, and he’s now found a Peruvian take on that classic combination that he can’t get enough of. Anytime he’s craving a savory lomo saltado, he heads to Oakland’s Rockridge neighborhood, home to Pucquio.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"371\" data-end=\"386\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"388\" data-end=\"1120\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"388\" data-end=\"407\">Carlos Moreira:\u003c/strong> I’m making the dressing for the potato for your next course. The flavors of Peru are limitless. There are different regions. There’s the coast, there’s sea, there’s land, there’s highlands. As a Peruvian and as a cook, we want to send a message to the people. We wanted to introduce them to our culture. The kitchen of Pucquio tries to evoke all the flavors from Peru, from most of the staple dishes that we have there, but since we’re in California, we added an additional twist to it. A good example of that will be the tacu-tacu de mariscos, our interpretation of a classic Peruvian dish, but made completely different with beurre blanc on it and different elements that we get from our “stash” in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1122\" data-end=\"1480\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1122\" data-end=\"1141\">Carlos Moreira:\u003c/strong> One of the most representative dishes in our cuisine is the ceviche, without a doubt. It’s a ritual. The Mochicas probably were the first humans to start fishing and marinate raw fish. We admire and appreciate more about the freshness of the fish itself and how the nuances of that fish are brought by combining with the spice and citrus.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1482\" data-end=\"1821\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1482\" data-end=\"1501\">Carlos Moreira:\u003c/strong> One of our desserts, bombitas de carretilla, it brings me a lot of memories from my childhood in every aspect. Similar to a beignet, but we stuff it with fermented sweet potato and dulce de leche. My favorite item on the menu is every single one of them. They’re like my kids. I might have a favorite. I won’t tell you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1823\" data-end=\"2112\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1823\" data-end=\"1842\">Carlos Moreira:\u003c/strong> The name of the restaurant, Pucquio, is Quechua for “spring water,” and for us it’s a reflection of something pure and transparent, which is our mission to our community. Hello, hello. I really hope they feel touched, satisfied, happy, and raving about this restaurant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2114\" data-end=\"2129\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2131\" data-end=\"2275\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2131\" data-end=\"2150\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, Chris, talk about what’s unique about this space, right? A very intimate dining room and that open sort of kitchen feel.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2277\" data-end=\"2403\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2277\" data-end=\"2295\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> For sure. One thing about Pucquio that I love is that the interior seats about 18 people. It is very small.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2405\" data-end=\"2451\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2405\" data-end=\"2424\">Carlos Moreira:\u003c/strong> You know where to find me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2453\" data-end=\"2581\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2453\" data-end=\"2471\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> And there are four seats at the pass where you can sit and watch the chef and the sous chef work their magic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2583\" data-end=\"2686\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2583\" data-end=\"2602\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So what do you get when you walk in that door and you start smelling all that food?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2688\" data-end=\"3248\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2688\" data-end=\"2706\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> The first thing we have is the cebiche de clásico. This dish is made with a wonderfully flavored rockfish. It sits on a bed of greens with some red onions and Peruvian nuts that give every bite that you have just a little bit of crunch, a little bit of texture. They serve this dish with a relatively large spoon. But for me, because I think lifting the plate and drinking from it is a bit rude, I can at least scoop some of that citric juice and just sort of finish my ceviche with that, which is a great way to end that particular starter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3250\" data-end=\"3504\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3250\" data-end=\"3269\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> We also started with the cebiche de pescado, and it was amazing. And I especially loved how the marinade is, as you said, very, very acidic. I felt the sweet potato really balanced that out and made it overall a really delicious dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3506\" data-end=\"3556\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3506\" data-end=\"3525\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you use the big spoon too?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3558\" data-end=\"3756\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3558\" data-end=\"3577\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> I did use the big spoon to get the extra juice. And the Peruvian corn is so fun. I’ve never seen corn kernels that big before, but it really adds that extra bite and fun texture.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3758\" data-end=\"3918\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3758\" data-end=\"3779\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> So actually, I just want to jump in and talk about Kevin, who was actually our welcome wagon when we first got there. He is exceptional…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3920\" data-end=\"3962\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3920\" data-end=\"3930\">Kevin:\u003c/strong> This is coming from Susanville.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3964\" data-end=\"4367\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3964\" data-end=\"3985\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> …describing everything because it was one of my first times having Peruvian cuisine. So, my appetizer was the cebiche de truchae, which actually had a little bit of skin. It had fennel, yucca, and a little bit of caviar. And I loved there was a lot of acidity to it, but it was a combination of like the lemon and lime and some of the green leaves, which made it extremely tasty.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4369\" data-end=\"4412\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4369\" data-end=\"4388\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What about you, Manali?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4414\" data-end=\"4840\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4414\" data-end=\"4433\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> We got two entrées, so one of them was the arroz de mariscos, which was a Peruvian take on paella. Delicious. It had Gulf prawns, squid, and rockfish in it. And the arroz, the rice had squid ink in it as well, so it was super creamy. It had that fun, you know, dark black color that you get with squid ink. Really incredible. And, again, it had that Peruvian corn in it that I’m just totally obsessed with.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4842\" data-end=\"4929\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4842\" data-end=\"4863\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Kevin actually explained that there are 84 types of corn in Peru.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4931\" data-end=\"4964\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4931\" data-end=\"4950\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> That’s a lot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4966\" data-end=\"5007\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4966\" data-end=\"4987\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Yeah. That’s a lot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5009\" data-end=\"5482\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5009\" data-end=\"5028\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Our second one, we got the tacu-tacu de mariscos, which was more of a rice and beans dish. They sound very similar, both like rice with different types of seafood, but very different in terms of the flavor. The rice and beans were cooked so perfectly. The beans were really tender. And it came with this beurre vert, which was this very herbaceous green sauce that was also very creamy and went great with the very fresh seafood that was served with it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5484\" data-end=\"5747\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5484\" data-end=\"5505\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> So, we also had the chupe de camarones, which is — it’s like a cross between like a shrimp bisque and a shrimp chowder, and it comes with like a poached egg. It comes with some rice, and it’s a complex taste. It’s delicious. Don’t miss that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5749\" data-end=\"5808\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5749\" data-end=\"5768\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. From the ceviche, what’s next?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5810\" data-end=\"6207\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5810\" data-end=\"5828\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> It is definitely a meat-centric, protein-centric restaurant. And so the lomo saltado is a marinated steak served with steak fries, white rice, some marinated tomatoes and onions, and if you wish, you can get a fried egg on top of the rice, so you can have all these various flavors in each bite that you have of the lomo saltado. And then you realize, “Holy cow, it’s all gone.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6209\" data-end=\"6264\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6209\" data-end=\"6228\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> This isn’t just steak and potatoes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6266\" data-end=\"6300\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6266\" data-end=\"6284\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> Absolutely not.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6302\" data-end=\"6351\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6302\" data-end=\"6321\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Any other main dishes to try?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6353\" data-end=\"6862\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6353\" data-end=\"6371\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> Yes, the adobo de chancho is a pork dish that when you are served this dish, Kevin will bring you your silverware, which is a fork and a spoon. Rarely, if ever, have I gone to a restaurant where there is no knife, because the pork is so soft and tender that you use the spoon with the fork to break it apart, and then it’s paired with these braised beans, small pieces of pork belly, and red onions that create this multi-textural bite. And it’s melt-in-your-mouth pork, an incredible dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6864\" data-end=\"6891\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6864\" data-end=\"6883\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Mm-hmm.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6893\" data-end=\"7197\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6893\" data-end=\"6911\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> They have a beverage called the maracuya, which is a passion fruit drink. And that to me is a sipping drink that you can enjoy throughout the entire meal. I say that as someone who often gets two with every dining experience, but it’s fantastically sweet and rich as a beverage can be.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7199\" data-end=\"7391\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7199\" data-end=\"7218\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I had the spritz del dia, which I guess was kind of an aperitivo of the day. Delicious. Had a nice flavor. It was very light, refreshing, and went well with the meal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7393\" data-end=\"7693\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7393\" data-end=\"7414\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> So, we wanted to have a Chardonnay, which Kevin said they don’t carry, and he made a recommendation, and it was such an amazing recommendation. I want to say it’s called the Rebolledo. I’m not sure about the pronunciation. We ended up having two bottles. That’s how good it was.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7695\" data-end=\"7745\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7695\" data-end=\"7713\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> That’s awesome. That’s awesome.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7747\" data-end=\"7843\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7747\" data-end=\"7766\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Can’t remember the name after the first bottle. Alright. Desserts. Desserts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"7845\" data-end=\"8148\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"7845\" data-end=\"7864\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> We got the bombitas, which were these little doughnut holes. They were so fresh. Super hot. They were filled with dulce de leche and then came with a pisco crème anglaise, which was great because it had just a little bit of sour to kind of cut through the sweetness of the doughnuts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8150\" data-end=\"8205\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8150\" data-end=\"8169\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It sounds like a must-have dessert.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8207\" data-end=\"8233\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8207\" data-end=\"8228\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8235\" data-end=\"8267\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8235\" data-end=\"8254\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Any dessert?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8269\" data-end=\"8362\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8269\" data-end=\"8290\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> That was my must-have dessert as well. Like, the four of us split that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8364\" data-end=\"8411\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8364\" data-end=\"8383\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So would you go back again?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8413\" data-end=\"8446\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8413\" data-end=\"8434\">Liza Fiorentinos:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8448\" data-end=\"8685\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8448\" data-end=\"8467\">Manali Gokhale:\u003c/strong> Yeah. I totally agree with you. It was an interesting experience where it felt like a very upscale experience. But at the same time, I felt like I was in someone’s home. It was — It’s hard to balance those two things.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8687\" data-end=\"8731\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8687\" data-end=\"8706\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Quite a passion project.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8733\" data-end=\"8763\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8733\" data-end=\"8751\">Chris Carroll:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8765\" data-end=\"8952\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8765\" data-end=\"8784\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. If you would like to try Pucquio, it’s located on College Avenue in Oakland’s Rockridge neighborhood. The average tab per person without drinks is around $45.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"8954\" data-end=\"9090\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"8954\" data-end=\"8973\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Looking for more Bay Area bites you’ve just got to try? Check out “Cecilia Tries It” online at kqed.org/checkplease.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9092\" data-end=\"9604\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9092\" data-end=\"9111\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I have to thank my great guests on this week’s show — \u003cstrong data-start=\"9166\" data-end=\"9184\">Manali Gokhale\u003c/strong>, lover of the hot buttermilk biscuits at Kahnfections in San Francisco, \u003cstrong data-start=\"9257\" data-end=\"9277\">Liza Fiorentinos\u003c/strong>, who savors every drop of bean stew at Twelvemonth in Burlingame, and \u003cstrong data-start=\"9348\" data-end=\"9365\">Chris Carroll\u003c/strong>, who adores the adobo de chancho at Pucquio in Oakland. Join us next time when three more guests will recommend their favorite spots right here on \u003cem data-start=\"9513\" data-end=\"9539\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em> I’m \u003cstrong data-start=\"9544\" data-end=\"9562\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>, and I’ll see you then. Cheers, everyone.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9606\" data-end=\"9622\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9606\" data-end=\"9614\">All:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9624\" data-end=\"9885\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9624\" data-end=\"9633\">Judy Khan:\u003c/strong> We just really enjoy doing whatever we can to make people happy. We usually have at least two cakes in the pastry case, mini cupcakes, mini tarts, the typical cookies and brownies, and things like that. I really enjoy watching people enjoy their food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9887\" data-end=\"9923\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9887\" data-end=\"9897\">Woman:\u003c/strong> This sandwich is so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9925\" data-end=\"9962\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9925\" data-end=\"9934\">Judy Khan:\u003c/strong> That’s what does it for me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"9964\" data-end=\"10004\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"9964\" data-end=\"9972\">Man:\u003c/strong> Do the whole thing in one bite.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"10006\" data-end=\"10053\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"10006\" data-end=\"10017\">Man #2:\u003c/strong> One bite’s a little much, actually.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"title": "Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Got Plate Lunch, Via del Corso, Curry Leaves Bistro",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/em>season 20, episode 3, airs Thursday, April 24, at 7:30 pm, on KQED 9. See other \u003ca href=\"http://www.kqed.org/tv/programs/index.jsp?pgmid=14084\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">television airtimes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Just steps from Benicia’s waterfront, \u003cstrong>Got Plate Lunch\u003c/strong> brings a taste of Hawaii to the North Bay, serving up island-style comfort food with an extra helping of aloha. Diners dig into da “Mixed Plate”, featuring a little bit of everything, along with crispy kalua pork tots and the rich, savory ultimate loco moco, complete with beef patties, grilled Spam, and fried eggs. Nestled in the heart of North Berkeley, \u003cstrong>Via del Corso\u003c/strong> brings the flavors of central Italy to the Bay Area, with handmade pastas, slow-braised meats, and a menu inspired by the country’s diverse culinary regions. The ravioli alla coda di bue, stuffed with slow-braised oxtail, and the garlicky tagliolini alle vongole are standouts, while the creme caramel di zucca — a pumpkin custard with cranberry compote — makes for a perfect sweet finish. Rounding out the episode, \u003cstrong>Curry Leaves Bistro\u003c/strong> in Pleasanton takes guests on a journey through the vibrant street food of Penang, Malaysia. The bold, smoky char kway teow, wok-fried with prawns and bursting with wok hei — the inimitable flavor imparted by the wok — is a must-try, as is the crispy roti canai served with fragrant chicken curry. To cap off the episode, reporter Cecilia Phillips immerses herself in the high-energy world of \u003cstrong>Bhangra and Beats\u003c/strong>, a San Francisco festival that brings together pulsating Punjabi rhythms, electrifying dance performances, and a vibrant night bazaar.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_23469\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-23469 size-medium\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Guests_b-800x533.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Guests_b-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Guests_b-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Guests_b-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Guests_b-768x512.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Guests_b-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Guests_b.png 1620w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco joins guests Dashini Jeyathurai, Erin Hurd and Rashawn Moore from KQED in San Francisco.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Get Restaurant Information:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.gotplatelunchca.com/\">\u003cstrong>Got Plate Lunch\u003c/strong> (Benicia)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.viadelcorso.net/\">\u003cstrong>Via del Corso\u003c/strong> (Berkeley)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.curryleavesbistro.com/\">\u003cstrong>Curry Leaves Bistro \u003c/strong>(Pleasanton)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.bhangraandbeats.com/\">\u003cstrong>Bhangra and Beats\u003c/strong> (San Francisco)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_20123\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-20123\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2019/04/Leslie-Headshot-Smokey-copy-800x540.jpg\" alt=\"Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine\" width=\"800\" height=\"540\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine \u003ccite>(Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the \u003ca href=\"http://ww2.kqed.org/checkplease/host-biography/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">host\u003c/a> of \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-23465\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Wines-800x450.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Wines-800x450.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Wines-1020x574.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Wines-160x90.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Wines-768x432.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Wines-1536x864.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Wines.png 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://presquilewine.com/wines/aligote/\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #008000\">\u003cstrong>Presqu’ile 2023 Aligoté\u003c/strong>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003cem>Santa Maria Valley, California $36\u003c/em>\u003cbr>\nFor those who are into finding wine discoveries, this is one to put on your list. The family-owned winery is in the beautiful Santa Maria Valley of Santa Barbara County. Hailing from the Presqu’ile Vineyard, which is situated among the top vineyards of California (think Sanford and Benedict and Bien Nacido), their debut Aligoté is a complex yet approachable white. The grape is known in France’s Burgundy region but less well known across the world. To taste such a unique variety in California is a treat. Alluring fresh lime aromas followed by tart lemon cream flavors, the dry, crisp white lingers on the palate. Don’t miss the eye-catching, artist-designed label that pays homage to the family’s Mississippi Gulf Coast roots.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://domaineedem.com/\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #008000\">\u003cstrong>Domaine EdeM 2024 “N.0 (ROSÆ)” Dealcoholized Sparkling Rosé\u003c/strong>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003cem>La Mancha, Spain $27\u003c/em>\u003cbr>\nOne of the hottest trends in wine is offerings with no alcohol. This new entry into the market is a quality-driven yet quaffable creation. It honors Elena Maza, the wife of Nicolás Catena, head of Argentina’s most famous wine family. Elena requested that her daughter, Laura Catena, and the Catena Institute of Wine craft “something lighter than traditional wine yet enjoyable as an aperitif before dinner.” This ethereal sipper is made with Airén grape juice from Toledo, Spain, using a specialized process that removes alcohol at low temperatures. Rose petals are then infused before bottling to capture a floral, citrus tanginess that makes your mouth water. A perfect aperitif and a refreshing drink on warm summer days for picnics and poolside.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Episode Transcript\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"139\" data-end=\"303\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"139\" data-end=\"158\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Hawaiian comfort food in Benicia…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"139\" data-end=\"303\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"139\" data-end=\"158\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> The soy sauce, the umami, the sweetness.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"139\" data-end=\"303\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"372\">Leslie Sbrocco: \u003c/strong>Trattoria classics in Berkeley… Everything is better with butter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"305\" data-end=\"351\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"833\" data-end=\"851\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> This type of butter? Yes. Yeah!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"499\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"372\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And Malaysian curries in Pleasanton.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"499\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"786\" data-end=\"809\">Dashini Jeyathurai: \u003c/strong>It’s like the Malaysian embassy of the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"499\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"372\">Leslie Sbrocco: \u003c/strong>Just ahead on \u003cem data-start=\"473\" data-end=\"499\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"501\" data-end=\"609\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"501\" data-end=\"520\">Aurum Kathuria:\u003c/strong> You can tell when someone likes it based on how much of a sip they take. That was a sip!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"611\" data-end=\"639\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"611\" data-end=\"625\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> It’s so good!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"641\" data-end=\"1137\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"641\" data-end=\"660\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Hi, I’m Leslie Sbrocco. Welcome to \u003cem data-start=\"696\" data-end=\"722\">Check, Please! Bay Area,\u003c/em> the show where Bay Area residents review and talk about their favorite restaurants. We have three guests and each one recommends one of their favorite spots, and the other two go check them out to see what they think. Joining me at the \u003cem data-start=\"959\" data-end=\"975\">Check, Please!\u003c/em> table today, are Senior Director \u003cstrong data-start=\"1009\" data-end=\"1031\">Dashini Jeyathurai\u003c/strong>, healthcare administrator \u003cstrong data-start=\"1058\" data-end=\"1075\">Rashawn Moore\u003c/strong>, and facilities coordinator \u003cstrong data-start=\"1104\" data-end=\"1117\">Erin Hurd\u003c/strong>. Welcome, everyone.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1139\" data-end=\"1158\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1139\" data-end=\"1147\">All:\u003c/strong> Thank you!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1160\" data-end=\"1194\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1160\" data-end=\"1179\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Are you ready?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1196\" data-end=\"1249\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1196\" data-end=\"1207\">Guests:\u003c/strong> We’re ready. We’re so excited to dive in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1251\" data-end=\"1582\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1251\" data-end=\"1270\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Let’s do it. Alright, it’s time to say aloha to Erin’s favorite lunchtime hangout. Offering island classics like fresh poke, spam musubi, and loco moco just steps from the beach, it’s the perfect place to satisfy her Hawaiian comfort food cravings. Located along the waterfront in Benicia, it’s Got Plate Lunch.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1584\" data-end=\"1599\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1601\" data-end=\"1635\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1601\" data-end=\"1612\">Server:\u003c/strong> I have your loco moco!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1637\" data-end=\"1662\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1637\" data-end=\"1651\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Thank you!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1664\" data-end=\"1859\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1664\" data-end=\"1681\">Myk Bigornia:\u003c/strong> The aloha spirit in Hawaii is probably like no other place in the world. How are you guys doing? You brought the whole baseball team! We try to represent more of an island vibe.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1861\" data-end=\"1890\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1861\" data-end=\"1874\">Customer:\u003c/strong> Happy birthday!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1892\" data-end=\"1918\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1892\" data-end=\"1902\">Group:\u003c/strong> Happy birthday!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1920\" data-end=\"2311\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1920\" data-end=\"1937\">Myk Bigornia:\u003c/strong> Slower paced, more relaxed. Got Plate Lunch is a restaurant that brings back the flavors of Hawaii that my wife and I grew up with. Plate lunch is a multicultural food. Japanese, Chinese, Filipino… It’s derived from the days of the plantation workers, all different ethnicities, eating lunch together, and they didn’t know how to communicate. But through lunch, they did.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2313\" data-end=\"2415\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2313\" data-end=\"2323\">Jamie Bigornia:\u003c/strong> Plate lunch is two scoops of rice, meat entree, and mac salad. Everything we make is fresh.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2417\" data-end=\"2535\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2417\" data-end=\"2434\">Myk Bigornia:\u003c/strong> Fresh ahi poke… Bath time, kimchi. Our Kalua pork and cabbage is smoked, slow cooked for 24 hours.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2537\" data-end=\"2571\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2537\" data-end=\"2550\">Customer:\u003c/strong> This is my favorite.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2573\" data-end=\"2673\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2573\" data-end=\"2583\">Jamie Bigornia:\u003c/strong> So, it’s flavorful, moist, and what we say in Hawaii… That means, like, it literally…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2675\" data-end=\"2711\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2675\" data-end=\"2689\">Customers:\u003c/strong> Delicious. Delicious!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2713\" data-end=\"3018\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2713\" data-end=\"2730\">Myk Bigornia:\u003c/strong> I love to eat the loco moco. I eat it five or six times a week. Ground beef patties seared on the flat top placed on top of rice with two over-easy eggs, and then smothered in our own proprietary brown gravy. It’s fabulous. [Chuckles] It’s fabulous. I’m getting hungry thinking about it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3020\" data-end=\"3035\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3037\" data-end=\"3185\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3037\" data-end=\"3054\">Myk Bigornia:\u003c/strong> In Benicia, I think there’s three or four restaurants with a true water view, and everybody tells us that we’ve got the best view.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3187\" data-end=\"3292\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3187\" data-end=\"3197\">Jamie Bigornia:\u003c/strong> We get to see the sunset every night, so be comfortable and enjoy the view and enjoy the food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3294\" data-end=\"3405\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3294\" data-end=\"3313\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, Erin. Got Plate Lunch started out as a food truck. Is that how you first found it?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3407\" data-end=\"3984\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3407\" data-end=\"3421\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Actually, no. I actually found them at their brick and mortar store. I was just craving some really good Hawaiian food that wasn’t a chain restaurant, and had those comfort foods that I look for. My favorite dish is absolutely, hands down, the ultimate loco moco that they have because it is so simple, yet so delicious. Two scoops of rice and two hamburger patties on the ultimate, actually, and two pieces of spam, and then two runny eggs, and then you top that with some brown gravy and a side of mac salad. And it is just all the calories, but all delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3986\" data-end=\"4033\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3986\" data-end=\"4005\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And a carb lover’s delight.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4035\" data-end=\"4061\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4035\" data-end=\"4049\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Absolutely!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4063\" data-end=\"4104\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4063\" data-end=\"4082\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Carb lover’s delight.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"60\" data-end=\"784\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"833\" data-end=\"851\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> I’ll usually start with a salad. I was going to be basic with, like, a regular garden one, but I’m like, no, let’s not be basic. What I had was the grilled pineapple salad and three different types of leaves, green leaves, and then they just grill the pineapple and then they make, like, a garlic pineapple vinaigrette. I even asked them, I was like, “What do y’all put in here?” And they were like, “We can’t tell you!” And then, I’m tasting it, I’m like, “I know exactly what that is.” So, I’m going to try to make it at home. I haven’t yet, but it was so good. I love the smokiness from the grilled pineapple. I’ve never had that on a salad before and it was amazing. And then, I had the loaded tater tots.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"786\" data-end=\"831\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"786\" data-end=\"809\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Ooh, I got that, too!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"833\" data-end=\"984\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"833\" data-end=\"851\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> So good, with the smokiness from the meat, and it had, like, honey mustard sauce, but then it had a lot of tang and really upped it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"986\" data-end=\"1073\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"986\" data-end=\"1009\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> I loved how crispy those were. I like the salad idea next time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1075\" data-end=\"1124\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1075\" data-end=\"1089\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> You go straight for the loco moco.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1126\" data-end=\"1277\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1126\" data-end=\"1149\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Oh, I absolutely do. I mean, I do have, there’s the spam muwasabi, and so, that has a actual wasabi aioli that they put on top.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1279\" data-end=\"1337\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1279\" data-end=\"1298\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That’s a little creative twist, right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1339\" data-end=\"1444\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1339\" data-end=\"1353\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it has that little bit of kick, but not too much, from the wasabi. And it’s amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1446\" data-end=\"1803\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1446\" data-end=\"1469\">Rashawn Moore: \u003c/strong> I got the Portuguese sausage musubi. It was so good, not like normal musubi. It comes with the rice on the top and the bottom, has a little bit of a sweet teriyaki sauce in the middle, and then, it’s wrapped in seaweed. The Portuguese sausage has a little bit of a smokiness and the sweetness, and it’s just really, really delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1805\" data-end=\"2129\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1805\" data-end=\"1819\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I also had Da Mixed Plate, which has Portuguese sausage, there’s spam, and then there’s also some teriyaki chicken, and it’s just perfectly grilled, loaded with the soy sauce, the umami, the sweetness. And that chicken just has the perfect amount of char on it to where it gives it flavor, but not bitterness.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2131\" data-end=\"2411\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1446\" data-end=\"1469\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> I also had an udon noodle dish which came with vegetables. We had cabbage, peppers… This one was a little more on the sweet side for me. I would love something a little bit more savory, but we took it home, added some hot sauce to it, and got it to my flavor.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2413\" data-end=\"2446\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2413\" data-end=\"2432\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Unbelievable.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2448\" data-end=\"2705\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2448\" data-end=\"2462\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I do get the saimin, which is very Hawaiian, traditional. It is just like this big bowl of these egg noodle saimin, and it has slices of spam. It just has all of this umami and flavor. It’s just so delicious, it takes me right back to Hawaii.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2707\" data-end=\"2794\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2707\" data-end=\"2726\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And they do have sort of Hawaiian drinks, and Hawaiian, you know…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2796\" data-end=\"2819\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2796\" data-end=\"2814\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2821\" data-end=\"2909\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2821\" data-end=\"2835\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Yeah. The last time that I went, they had something called the sun mosas.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2911\" data-end=\"2935\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2911\" data-end=\"2930\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Ooh!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2937\" data-end=\"3032\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2937\" data-end=\"2951\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> So, they had a flight of mimosas that were mixed with different flavors of wine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3034\" data-end=\"3096\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3034\" data-end=\"3053\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That’ll really put you in the island mood.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3098\" data-end=\"3133\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3098\" data-end=\"3112\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Oh, yes. Absolutely!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3135\" data-end=\"3527\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3135\" data-end=\"3158\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> I got one of the ube mochi desserts, which was really delicious. I brought my 7-year-old with me, and so there had to be a dessert ordered at the end of the meal. One of the things that I noticed about this place was that it reminded me so much of, like, restaurants that I’d gone to in Hawaii. It’s a really great, like, chill island vibe restaurant, which was great.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3529\" data-end=\"3749\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3529\" data-end=\"3547\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> I went there right when it opened, and within the next 20 minutes, it was packed. And a place that’s so far away and by itself, you wouldn’t expect it to be super, super packed, but they was coming in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3751\" data-end=\"3928\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3751\" data-end=\"3770\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright! If you would like to go to Got Plate Lunch, it’s located on West 9th Street in Benicia, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $25.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"78\" data-end=\"387\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"78\" data-end=\"97\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Rashawn’s a culinary school grad who dreams of having his own restaurant one day. In the meantime, he’s happy to perch right up at the counter at his neighborhood trattoria, watching the chefs prepare all the classic Italian fare his heart desires. Located in Berkeley, it’s Via del Corso.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"389\" data-end=\"755\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"389\" data-end=\"409\">Massimo Orlando:\u003c/strong> Via del Corso is a neighborhood restaurant. Come in, relax, and just have a great time. Via del Corso is a boulevard in Rome. A lot of the regions of Italy have their names on the streets that come into that boulevard. It’s a landmark in Rome. When we opened the restaurant, we thought we didn’t want to just cook one region, but all over Italy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"757\" data-end=\"915\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"757\" data-end=\"776\">Peter Chastain:\u003c/strong> We’ve been working together for about 22 years. He’s from Emilia-Romagna. My grandfather was from Tuscany. So, we argue about seasoning…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"917\" data-end=\"1156\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"917\" data-end=\"937\">Massimo Orlando:\u003c/strong> My dad’s from Sicily. I do a lot of southern Italian cooking, as well. My cooking started when I was a really young age from my grandma. We used to make ravioli during holidays. The love of food, that’s how we started.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1158\" data-end=\"1630\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1158\" data-end=\"1177\">Peter Chastain:\u003c/strong> These are beautiful truffles. We use products that a lot of people cut corners on. Prosciutto di San Daniele that’s 20 years, not 10 years. Burrata that’s made by a women-owned cooperative in Puglia and it’s just to die for. Real aceto balsamico tradizionale. We make pasta uovo, which is fresh egg pasta. One of the signature dishes is tagliatelle al ragù. People call it bolognese, but it is not bolognese. It’s a ragù from the countryside of Emilia.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1632\" data-end=\"1692\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1632\" data-end=\"1652\">Massimo Orlando:\u003c/strong> My grandma used to cook me tagliatelle.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1694\" data-end=\"1764\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1694\" data-end=\"1713\">Peter Chastain:\u003c/strong> People go nuts for that. We really like that dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1766\" data-end=\"1819\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1766\" data-end=\"1786\">Massimo Orlando:\u003c/strong> Can’t take that off of the menu.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1821\" data-end=\"2350\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1821\" data-end=\"1840\">Peter Chastain:\u003c/strong> Yeah, that’s right. Our wine list is exclusively Italian, which is rare in California. Wine is part of the meal in Italy. We had to have a glass of wine before we left the table when we were 7 years old in my family. The biggest comments we get from people is that it’s such a great vibe. People tell me that almost every night. It’s a small place, and yes, it’s a little bit loud, but the food speaks for itself. We’re trying to really ring the real memory bells of Italy cooked here in Berkeley, California.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2352\" data-end=\"2502\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2352\" data-end=\"2371\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Fantastic. That’s fantastic. Alright, Rashawn, is this the next best thing to, you know, being on a trip to Florence or something?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2504\" data-end=\"2556\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2504\" data-end=\"2522\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Absolutely. Might even be better.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2558\" data-end=\"2580\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2558\" data-end=\"2569\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2582\" data-end=\"2647\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2582\" data-end=\"2600\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> You have to deal with the hassle of the plane.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2649\" data-end=\"2699\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2649\" data-end=\"2668\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Yeah, exactly. No plane rides.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2701\" data-end=\"2898\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2701\" data-end=\"2719\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Being born and raised in Berkeley, you know, I’ve watched a bunch of different restaurants come and go. This one has been there for years. Great chefs, great service, great wine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2900\" data-end=\"2944\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2900\" data-end=\"2919\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What do you order first?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2946\" data-end=\"3241\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2946\" data-end=\"2964\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> So, I always start with the lattuga, and it’s almost like a Caesar salad, but heavy on the citrus and the lemon. It also comes with the parmesan cheese on top. This romaine lettuce is really crisp. There’s not a wilted leaf in there at all. Very lightly dressed. It’s perfect.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3243\" data-end=\"3301\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3243\" data-end=\"3262\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. Did you start with the salad?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3303\" data-end=\"3392\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3303\" data-end=\"3317\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I did not start with the salad, but I did have the burrata and prosciutto.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3394\" data-end=\"3443\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3394\" data-end=\"3413\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You can’t go wrong with that!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3445\" data-end=\"3739\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3445\" data-end=\"3459\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> You cannot, it’s drizzled with this aged balsamic that’s sweet, yet has a little bit of tang to kind of balance out the creaminess of the cheese. And then, the saltiness of the prosciutto. It’s a healthy portion, too. I split it with my dining partner, and we just devoured that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3741\" data-end=\"3785\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3741\" data-end=\"3760\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What did you start with?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3787\" data-end=\"3877\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3787\" data-end=\"3810\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> I think it’s a trend. Erin and I are not starting with the salads.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3879\" data-end=\"3901\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3879\" data-end=\"3890\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3903\" data-end=\"4129\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3903\" data-end=\"3926\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> I got the crostone. This came with a mound of tuna, beans, and I love the amount of herbs that they had on this because it gave it a really citrusy, bright flavor and that really gets your palate going.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4131\" data-end=\"4208\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4131\" data-end=\"4150\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Where did you move to after that first delicious burrata?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4210\" data-end=\"4639\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4210\" data-end=\"4224\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I had the tagliolini alle vongole. It was just filled with so many manila clams, and the fresh pasta was to die for. It was absolutely my favorite. Just had all this, like, buttery, winey sauce. Definitely a shareable amount. You know, we had expressed that we were going to be sharing our dishes a little bit, so they were more than happy to bring over an extra plate, some extra forks, just extremely hospitable.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4641\" data-end=\"4678\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4641\" data-end=\"4660\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, good service.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4680\" data-end=\"4706\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4680\" data-end=\"4694\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"49\" data-end=\"231\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"49\" data-end=\"67\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> My go-to dish is the pollo alla sostanza. It’s a chicken breast cooked in brown butter, and it’s perfectly crisp on the outside and very, very juicy in the middle.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"233\" data-end=\"451\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"233\" data-end=\"256\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> You know when you’re at a Mexican restaurant and the fajitas come out and there’s the sizzling sound — that had that effect because you bring that out and everyone looks at what you’re ordering.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"453\" data-end=\"576\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"453\" data-end=\"471\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> And there’s that nuttiness that you get with the brown butter. And it’s perfect for that bread, as well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"578\" data-end=\"631\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"578\" data-end=\"597\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Everything is better with butter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"633\" data-end=\"679\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"633\" data-end=\"647\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Yeah. This type of butter? Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"681\" data-end=\"812\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"681\" data-end=\"699\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Yeah. And it comes with a slice of lemon. So, you can just squeeze that right on top, and it really balances it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"814\" data-end=\"1078\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"814\" data-end=\"832\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Another dish I had was the braised oxtail stuffed ravioli. It has, like, really great savory flavors complemented by white wine sauce. Another one of those dishes that people are like, “I want that,” you know, from the other table. It was great.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1080\" data-end=\"1462\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1080\" data-end=\"1103\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> And I also got another pasta dish, something called torchio, and this was a really interesting pasta, I’d never had it before, and it came with leeks, as well as chanterelle mushrooms. But what surprised me was the butternut squash in there. So, it added this sweet flavor that I wasn’t really expecting with the pasta. But another one that I really enjoyed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1464\" data-end=\"1582\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1464\" data-end=\"1478\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I had a seasonal mocktail that they had listed. It was a Bellini-type cocktail and it was so delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1584\" data-end=\"1832\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1584\" data-end=\"1602\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> The bartender’s really knowledgeable, too, so you can go up to him and just be like, “Hey, these are my flavors,” and Justin literally will put a whole bunch of ideas in your head and you’re like, “Whatever, I’ll try everything.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1834\" data-end=\"1889\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1834\" data-end=\"1853\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now, did you have room for dessert?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1891\" data-end=\"1917\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1891\" data-end=\"1905\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1919\" data-end=\"1950\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1919\" data-end=\"1938\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Okay, good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1952\" data-end=\"2235\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1952\" data-end=\"1966\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I had the affogato — vanilla, so I went classic. And the little shot of espresso, I love that it came separate because I was able to pour a little bit on, eat a little bit, pour a little bit more, finish it, but then I definitely drank out of that little dessert bowl.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2237\" data-end=\"2265\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2237\" data-end=\"2256\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2267\" data-end=\"2570\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2267\" data-end=\"2281\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> It was so good! I also had the creme caramel di zucca, and it was so delicious. It was like this pumpkin cheesecake sprinkled with crushed Amaretti cookies, as well as two big pieces of Amaretti cookies right next to it, beautiful dessert, and it was such a perfect ending to our evening.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2572\" data-end=\"2713\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2572\" data-end=\"2591\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And do you feel like, you know, it was a reasonably priced restaurant for the atmosphere and for the quality of the food?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2715\" data-end=\"2880\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2715\" data-end=\"2729\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Absolutely. Especially for the standard of service that they provide and the quality of food. That was, like, a perfect date night kind of restaurant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2882\" data-end=\"3096\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2882\" data-end=\"2900\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> What I noticed when I walked in immediately was just how buzzy the vibe of the restaurant was. It just was like a really warm energy that translated through the whole restaurant, so I loved that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3098\" data-end=\"3163\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3098\" data-end=\"3117\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And it saves you the money of going to Italy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3165\" data-end=\"3194\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3165\" data-end=\"3176\">Guests:\u003c/strong> Right! [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3196\" data-end=\"3224\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3196\" data-end=\"3210\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> We love that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3226\" data-end=\"3398\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3226\" data-end=\"3245\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> If you would like to try Via del Corso, it’s located on Shattuck Avenue in Berkeley, and the average dinner tab per person without drinks is around $70.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"427\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"104\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It’s been more than 20 years since Dashini moved to America from her native Malaysia, and in all that time, she’s dreamt of finding a restaurant offering authentic flavors of home. Luckily, she’s finally found a spot that serves up all her childhood favorites. Located in the heart of Pleasanton, it’s Curry Leaves Bistro.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"429\" data-end=\"444\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"446\" data-end=\"837\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"446\" data-end=\"463\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> Curry Leaves Bistro is a Malaysian restaurant specializing in Malaysian street food. Mee rebus. I’m originally from an island called Penang. You ask any Malaysian, you know, “When someone says Penang, what is the first thing that you say?” They’ll say “Food.” We like our gravy a little bit thick. Truth be told, we eat seven or eight times a day. It’s just the way we are.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"839\" data-end=\"854\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"856\" data-end=\"1237\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"856\" data-end=\"873\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> Defining Malaysian food is not an easy task. There are so many cultures and influences from all over the world. You want something savory, something sweet, you want something spicy, there’s something for everyone. Curry leaf is something that all cultures in Malaysia primarily use. The Indian, Chinese, Malay, and the Peranakan cultures, they all use curry leaf.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1239\" data-end=\"1653\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1239\" data-end=\"1256\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> One of my favorite things to cook is char koay teow. It is a flat rice noodle similar to Pad Thai. Char koay teow is a favorite of everybody in Malaysia. Drinks are part of the Malaysian cuisine, but you know, our most popular item, which is the teh tarik, which is literally translated to “pulled tea.” We mix them and cool them down by pouring from one cup to the other cup as high as possible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1655\" data-end=\"1692\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1655\" data-end=\"1665\">Group:\u003c/strong> Wow! [cheers and applause]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1694\" data-end=\"1718\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1694\" data-end=\"1707\">Customer:\u003c/strong> Thank you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1720\" data-end=\"1759\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1720\" data-end=\"1737\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> Don’t change a thing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1761\" data-end=\"1792\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1761\" data-end=\"1774\">Customer:\u003c/strong> Okay, okay, okay!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1794\" data-end=\"2084\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1794\" data-end=\"1811\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> The best compliment that I can get from any Malaysian who comes in here is like, “Wow, this is just like going back home to eat. Now, I don’t have to fly back to eat.” Your regular. It makes me feel good that I’ve done justice to our national food and to my favorite dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2086\" data-end=\"2101\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2103\" data-end=\"2209\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2103\" data-end=\"2122\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, Dashini, it’s been a challenge for you, hasn’t it, to find real Malaysian cuisine?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2211\" data-end=\"2483\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2211\" data-end=\"2234\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> It has been. I tend to try and get the adjacent cuisines like Thai food, et cetera, but it’s not the same, and I’ve been on the hunt, and I finally chanced upon Curry Leaves Bistro and lo and behold, it’s like the Malaysian embassy of the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2485\" data-end=\"2507\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2485\" data-end=\"2496\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2509\" data-end=\"2556\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2509\" data-end=\"2528\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You found it! You found it!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2558\" data-end=\"2599\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2558\" data-end=\"2581\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> I found it, yeah!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2601\" data-end=\"2682\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2601\" data-end=\"2620\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And what is it? What do you, you know, draws you in the door?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2684\" data-end=\"3163\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2684\" data-end=\"2707\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Oh, the dish that brings me into that restaurant is char koay teow, which is a childhood favorite. And char means, sort of, stir-fried. And it’s rice noodles cooked with soy sauce, bean sprouts, green chives in there, tons of shrimp, which I love. This real flavor from the wok that it’s cooked in — that sense of, I think it’s called wok hei — and that is something that char koay teow from Curry Leaves Bistro has in spades. So, that’s one of my go-tos.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3165\" data-end=\"3230\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3165\" data-end=\"3184\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And what did you start with when you went in?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3232\" data-end=\"3413\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3232\" data-end=\"3255\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> So, as a starter, I had the roti canai, which is, like, the roti crispy bread paired with the curry. And I have a weakness for, like, layered crispy bread…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3415\" data-end=\"3447\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3415\" data-end=\"3434\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Who doesn’t?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3449\" data-end=\"3578\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3449\" data-end=\"3472\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Right, exactly. And it was so buttery. And then, you just dip it right in that curry, and it was so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3580\" data-end=\"3741\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3580\" data-end=\"3598\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Super delicious to just dip it inside the curry that had a piece of chicken in it that was an actual piece of chicken with a bone still in it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3743\" data-end=\"3765\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3743\" data-end=\"3754\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3767\" data-end=\"4120\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3767\" data-end=\"3785\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Like, it was great bang for your buck for just this one plate. And I also had the mee goreng, and it is kind of like a Chinese chow mein. That’s what it reminded me of. It came with a healthy portion of shrimp, and calamari, and just beansprouts for crunch, and green onions for freshness. And it was just a delicious, delicious meal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4122\" data-end=\"4723\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4122\" data-end=\"4145\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> So, one of the dishes that I really like to also get there is called nasi kandar. And that means carried rice, and it was brought to Malaysia by Indian immigrants who would sell rice on wooden poles. And so, that rice dish comes with a beautiful curry as well as a side of pickles. So, it’s a nice complement to the spiciness of the curry. Always comes with some kind of protein, I get it with chicken, but my daughter is vegetarian and so she got it with tofu and really enjoyed it. And we got something called mee rebus, which was a noodle dish that came with a potato gravy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4725\" data-end=\"4775\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4725\" data-end=\"4742\">Jai Kandayah:\u003c/strong> It’s a sweet potato based gravy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4777\" data-end=\"4953\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4777\" data-end=\"4800\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Sounds dodgy, but it’s actually very good. And on top of it was a couple of crispy shrimp. It has udon vibes, but yes, I went to town on that, loved it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4955\" data-end=\"5008\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4955\" data-end=\"4974\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you have any of those dishes?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5010\" data-end=\"5059\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5010\" data-end=\"5024\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I didn’t have any of those dishes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5061\" data-end=\"5098\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5061\" data-end=\"5080\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> But now you know.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5100\" data-end=\"5175\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5100\" data-end=\"5114\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Yeah, exactly. And I will get everything that you just said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5177\" data-end=\"5211\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5177\" data-end=\"5200\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Next time!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"150\" data-end=\"249\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"150\" data-end=\"164\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I also got a fried chicken, kind of traditional fried chicken, but spiced very well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"251\" data-end=\"326\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"251\" data-end=\"268\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> We double fry our chicken so that it is moist and crispy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"328\" data-end=\"401\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"328\" data-end=\"346\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> And yeah, it’s really simple, but it’s really crunchy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"403\" data-end=\"470\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"403\" data-end=\"422\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And is that a Malaysian traditional dish or no?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"472\" data-end=\"512\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"472\" data-end=\"489\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> We love fried chicken.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"514\" data-end=\"536\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"514\" data-end=\"525\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"538\" data-end=\"669\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"538\" data-end=\"555\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> You know, I mean, in Malaysia, you could get fried chicken for breakfast. So, you can eat it any time of the day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"671\" data-end=\"785\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"671\" data-end=\"689\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> It was the spices that really got me. You know, it’s not seasoned how a normal fried chicken…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"787\" data-end=\"818\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"787\" data-end=\"804\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> That’s right.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"820\" data-end=\"960\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"820\" data-end=\"838\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> You know? It definitely had the seasons from Malaysia. Then, I got a rose drink. Very smooth, almost like horchata vibes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"962\" data-end=\"999\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"962\" data-end=\"985\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Yes! Bandung?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1001\" data-end=\"1167\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1001\" data-end=\"1019\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Bandung, yes, exactly. It was so different because I’ve never had a floral drink. I got a large, and it was just like, I have to drink all of this.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1169\" data-end=\"1305\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1169\" data-end=\"1192\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> So, I tried it, and I’m not much of a floral kind of person, but you know who drank all of it was my 3-year-old!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1307\" data-end=\"1329\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1307\" data-end=\"1318\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1331\" data-end=\"1433\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1331\" data-end=\"1354\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> She said, “Ooh, it’s a pink, pretty drink! And it tastes sweet and delicious!”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1435\" data-end=\"1511\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1435\" data-end=\"1454\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And did you feel like the portions were big? Just right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1513\" data-end=\"1543\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1513\" data-end=\"1527\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Decently sized.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1545\" data-end=\"1580\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1545\" data-end=\"1568\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1582\" data-end=\"1653\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1582\" data-end=\"1601\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you bring any home or did you eat it all there?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1655\" data-end=\"1683\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1655\" data-end=\"1669\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I ate it all.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1685\" data-end=\"1707\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1685\" data-end=\"1696\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1709\" data-end=\"1782\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1709\" data-end=\"1728\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Well, it’s a real discovery, isn’t it, for everybody.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1784\" data-end=\"1820\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1784\" data-end=\"1807\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> I love that!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1822\" data-end=\"1896\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1822\" data-end=\"1841\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And hard for you to find! It was hard for you to find.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1898\" data-end=\"1969\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1898\" data-end=\"1921\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> It was hard to find but now we’ve got our spot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1971\" data-end=\"1993\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1971\" data-end=\"1982\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1995\" data-end=\"2174\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1995\" data-end=\"2014\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> If you would like to try Curry Leaves Bistro, it’s located on Las Positas Boulevard in Pleasanton, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $25.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2176\" data-end=\"2302\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2176\" data-end=\"2195\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And now, reporter \u003cstrong data-start=\"2214\" data-end=\"2234\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong> samples South Asian treats and beats in the heart of San Francisco.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2304\" data-end=\"2456\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2304\" data-end=\"2325\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Bhangra and Beats is an all-ages free night market that celebrates South Asian culture through food, through music, through dance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2458\" data-end=\"2496\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2458\" data-end=\"2473\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> Lift them up and walk!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2498\" data-end=\"2673\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2498\" data-end=\"2519\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> I heard that tonight’s celebration was especially important because this is the first time that San Francisco has put on an event that celebrates Diwali.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2675\" data-end=\"2961\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2675\" data-end=\"2690\">Vicki Virk:\u003c/strong> Yes, Diwali is a time to reflect, come together, give thanks, and to remember the beautiful things in life. There is such a massive population of South Asians in the Bay Area, and to be able to have their culture celebrated at a platform like this is absolutely amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2963\" data-end=\"2978\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2980\" data-end=\"3111\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2980\" data-end=\"2995\">Ranjan Dey:\u003c/strong> New Delhi Restaurant is a mixed immigrant family legacy business serving the most freaking Dey-licious Indian food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3113\" data-end=\"3178\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3113\" data-end=\"3134\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Dey-licious. A play on your last name, Dey?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3180\" data-end=\"3207\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3180\" data-end=\"3195\">Ranjan Dey:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3209\" data-end=\"3236\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3209\" data-end=\"3230\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3238\" data-end=\"3372\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3238\" data-end=\"3253\">Ranjan Dey:\u003c/strong> This is called joy bomb. A rice ball covered with panko batter and fried. And you will be so joyful, you will tear up.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3374\" data-end=\"3441\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3374\" data-end=\"3395\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Oh, okay, alright! Somebody grab me a tissue.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3443\" data-end=\"3510\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3443\" data-end=\"3458\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> Then you can do, screw the light bulb, pet the dog.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3512\" data-end=\"3552\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3512\" data-end=\"3533\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Is that the dance?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3554\" data-end=\"3581\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3554\" data-end=\"3569\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> Dance move!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3583\" data-end=\"3624\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3583\" data-end=\"3604\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> So, it goes like…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3626\" data-end=\"3652\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3626\" data-end=\"3641\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> Like that?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3654\" data-end=\"3695\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3654\" data-end=\"3675\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Yeah! There you go!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3697\" data-end=\"3759\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3697\" data-end=\"3718\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Alright, so I’ve danced. Now, can I eat?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3761\" data-end=\"3781\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3761\" data-end=\"3776\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> Yes!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3783\" data-end=\"3842\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3783\" data-end=\"3804\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> I do feel myself starting to tear up.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3844\" data-end=\"3869\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3844\" data-end=\"3859\">Ranjan Dey:\u003c/strong> Oh, yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3871\" data-end=\"3900\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3871\" data-end=\"3882\">Guests:\u003c/strong> That’s beautiful.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3902\" data-end=\"3934\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3902\" data-end=\"3923\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> [Chuckles]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3936\" data-end=\"4001\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3936\" data-end=\"3947\">Vendor:\u003c/strong> Wahjeewah specializes in Indian barbecue street food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4003\" data-end=\"4081\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4003\" data-end=\"4024\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> So, Wahjeewah, what does the name of your business mean?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4083\" data-end=\"4392\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4083\" data-end=\"4094\">Vendor:\u003c/strong> It’s an expression, when you eat something amazing, you’re like, “Wow, that’s fantastic.” When you’re satisfied, your heart speaks like “wahjeewah.” This is the lamb kebab. We wrapped it in a naan bread that we cooked fresh here. It has some pickled onions, some chutney on the side for some heat.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4394\" data-end=\"4507\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4394\" data-end=\"4415\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Here we go! Honestly, like, the lamb is so tender. Oh, my gosh, this is wahjeewah for sure!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4509\" data-end=\"4836\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4509\" data-end=\"4520\">Vendor:\u003c/strong> Barfia is a unique Indian confections and dessert business. Barfia’s almost like a fudge, but it’s not made out of chocolate. It’s made out of dried milk powder, ghee, and sugar. Here we have khoya, raspberry white chocolate, peanut butter, ube, Oreo, mango coconut, pistachio, celebration cake, and orange blossom.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4838\" data-end=\"4891\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4838\" data-end=\"4859\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Happy Diwali! Here we go, okay!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4893\" data-end=\"4916\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4893\" data-end=\"4904\">Vendor:\u003c/strong> Here we go.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4918\" data-end=\"5008\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4918\" data-end=\"4939\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> It’s a really light, very subtle flavor of pistachio. Mm, delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5010\" data-end=\"5039\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5010\" data-end=\"5021\">Vendor:\u003c/strong> Delicious, right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5041\" data-end=\"5078\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5041\" data-end=\"5062\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> That’s so good!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5080\" data-end=\"5411\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5080\" data-end=\"5099\">Aurum Kathuria:\u003c/strong> Naya Delights is all about the love of rose. And these days, I find a way to infuse it into every little thing I can. Here, we’ve got our rose chai — oat milk, chai latte, and then we add some rose water and rose syrup to really give it that rose flavor. We top it with crushed pistachios and fresh rose petals.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5413\" data-end=\"5523\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5413\" data-end=\"5434\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> You’re in pink. I got a little pink here. And a pink straw. Wow, you’re really on brand.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5525\" data-end=\"5553\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5525\" data-end=\"5544\">Aurum Kathuria:\u003c/strong> [laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5555\" data-end=\"5617\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5555\" data-end=\"5576\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Oh, my gosh, it’s so light. I want more.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5619\" data-end=\"5629\">[cheering]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5631\" data-end=\"5646\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5648\" data-end=\"6152\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5648\" data-end=\"5667\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I have to thank my fabulous guests on this week’s show, \u003cstrong data-start=\"5724\" data-end=\"5746\">Dashini Jeyathurai\u003c/strong>, who shared a taste of Malaysia at Curry Leaves Bistro in Pleasanton, \u003cstrong data-start=\"5817\" data-end=\"5834\">Rashawn Moore\u003c/strong>, who can’t get enough of the butter-basted chicken at Via del Corso in Berkeley, and \u003cstrong data-start=\"5920\" data-end=\"5933\">Erin Hurd\u003c/strong>, lover of the loco moco at Got Plate Lunch in Benicia. Join us next time when three more guests will recommend their favorite spots right here on \u003cem data-start=\"6080\" data-end=\"6106\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em> I’m \u003cstrong data-start=\"6111\" data-end=\"6129\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong> and I’ll see you then.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6154\" data-end=\"6199\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6154\" data-end=\"6173\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Cheers! Did you have fun?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6201\" data-end=\"6225\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6201\" data-end=\"6219\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6227\" data-end=\"6253\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6227\" data-end=\"6241\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6255\" data-end=\"6274\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6255\" data-end=\"6266\">Guests:\u003c/strong> Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6276\" data-end=\"6300\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6276\" data-end=\"6290\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Whoo-hoo!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6302\" data-end=\"6510\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6302\" data-end=\"6323\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Bhangra and Beats is a brainchild of Into the Streets, a non-stop Bhangra. It’s so time to come together, eat good food, dress up in beautiful clothing and just celebrate being together.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6512\" data-end=\"6533\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6512\" data-end=\"6522\">Woman:\u003c/strong> And dance!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6535\" data-end=\"6567\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6535\" data-end=\"6556\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> And dance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6569\" data-end=\"6652\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6569\" data-end=\"6590\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Can you teach me, like, one dance move so I have something…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6654\" data-end=\"6722\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6654\" data-end=\"6669\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> Absolutely. Absolutely. Okay. So, clap, clap, dance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6724\" data-end=\"6778\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6724\" data-end=\"6745\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Oh, my gosh! Am I doing Bhangra?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6780\" data-end=\"6817\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6780\" data-end=\"6795\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> You’re doing Bhangra!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6819\" data-end=\"6841\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6819\" data-end=\"6830\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6843\" data-end=\"6914\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6843\" data-end=\"6858\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> All else fails, you just have to bounce your shoulders.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6916\" data-end=\"6979\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6916\" data-end=\"6937\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Just bounce the shoulders. I can do that.\u003c/p>\n\n",
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"title": "Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Got Plate Lunch, Via del Corso, Curry Leaves Bistro | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/em>season 20, episode 3, airs Thursday, April 24, at 7:30 pm, on KQED 9. See other \u003ca href=\"http://www.kqed.org/tv/programs/index.jsp?pgmid=14084\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">television airtimes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Just steps from Benicia’s waterfront, \u003cstrong>Got Plate Lunch\u003c/strong> brings a taste of Hawaii to the North Bay, serving up island-style comfort food with an extra helping of aloha. Diners dig into da “Mixed Plate”, featuring a little bit of everything, along with crispy kalua pork tots and the rich, savory ultimate loco moco, complete with beef patties, grilled Spam, and fried eggs. Nestled in the heart of North Berkeley, \u003cstrong>Via del Corso\u003c/strong> brings the flavors of central Italy to the Bay Area, with handmade pastas, slow-braised meats, and a menu inspired by the country’s diverse culinary regions. The ravioli alla coda di bue, stuffed with slow-braised oxtail, and the garlicky tagliolini alle vongole are standouts, while the creme caramel di zucca — a pumpkin custard with cranberry compote — makes for a perfect sweet finish. Rounding out the episode, \u003cstrong>Curry Leaves Bistro\u003c/strong> in Pleasanton takes guests on a journey through the vibrant street food of Penang, Malaysia. The bold, smoky char kway teow, wok-fried with prawns and bursting with wok hei — the inimitable flavor imparted by the wok — is a must-try, as is the crispy roti canai served with fragrant chicken curry. To cap off the episode, reporter Cecilia Phillips immerses herself in the high-energy world of \u003cstrong>Bhangra and Beats\u003c/strong>, a San Francisco festival that brings together pulsating Punjabi rhythms, electrifying dance performances, and a vibrant night bazaar.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_23469\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-23469 size-medium\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Guests_b-800x533.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Guests_b-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Guests_b-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Guests_b-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Guests_b-768x512.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Guests_b-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Guests_b.png 1620w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco joins guests Dashini Jeyathurai, Erin Hurd and Rashawn Moore from KQED in San Francisco.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Get Restaurant Information:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.gotplatelunchca.com/\">\u003cstrong>Got Plate Lunch\u003c/strong> (Benicia)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.viadelcorso.net/\">\u003cstrong>Via del Corso\u003c/strong> (Berkeley)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.curryleavesbistro.com/\">\u003cstrong>Curry Leaves Bistro \u003c/strong>(Pleasanton)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.bhangraandbeats.com/\">\u003cstrong>Bhangra and Beats\u003c/strong> (San Francisco)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_20123\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-20123\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2019/04/Leslie-Headshot-Smokey-copy-800x540.jpg\" alt=\"Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine\" width=\"800\" height=\"540\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine \u003ccite>(Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the \u003ca href=\"http://ww2.kqed.org/checkplease/host-biography/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">host\u003c/a> of \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-23465\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Wines-800x450.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Wines-800x450.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Wines-1020x574.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Wines-160x90.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Wines-768x432.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Wines-1536x864.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2003_Wines.png 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://presquilewine.com/wines/aligote/\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #008000\">\u003cstrong>Presqu’ile 2023 Aligoté\u003c/strong>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003cem>Santa Maria Valley, California $36\u003c/em>\u003cbr>\nFor those who are into finding wine discoveries, this is one to put on your list. The family-owned winery is in the beautiful Santa Maria Valley of Santa Barbara County. Hailing from the Presqu’ile Vineyard, which is situated among the top vineyards of California (think Sanford and Benedict and Bien Nacido), their debut Aligoté is a complex yet approachable white. The grape is known in France’s Burgundy region but less well known across the world. To taste such a unique variety in California is a treat. Alluring fresh lime aromas followed by tart lemon cream flavors, the dry, crisp white lingers on the palate. Don’t miss the eye-catching, artist-designed label that pays homage to the family’s Mississippi Gulf Coast roots.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://domaineedem.com/\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #008000\">\u003cstrong>Domaine EdeM 2024 “N.0 (ROSÆ)” Dealcoholized Sparkling Rosé\u003c/strong>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003cem>La Mancha, Spain $27\u003c/em>\u003cbr>\nOne of the hottest trends in wine is offerings with no alcohol. This new entry into the market is a quality-driven yet quaffable creation. It honors Elena Maza, the wife of Nicolás Catena, head of Argentina’s most famous wine family. Elena requested that her daughter, Laura Catena, and the Catena Institute of Wine craft “something lighter than traditional wine yet enjoyable as an aperitif before dinner.” This ethereal sipper is made with Airén grape juice from Toledo, Spain, using a specialized process that removes alcohol at low temperatures. Rose petals are then infused before bottling to capture a floral, citrus tanginess that makes your mouth water. A perfect aperitif and a refreshing drink on warm summer days for picnics and poolside.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Episode Transcript\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"139\" data-end=\"303\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"139\" data-end=\"158\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Hawaiian comfort food in Benicia…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"139\" data-end=\"303\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"139\" data-end=\"158\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> The soy sauce, the umami, the sweetness.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"139\" data-end=\"303\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"372\">Leslie Sbrocco: \u003c/strong>Trattoria classics in Berkeley… Everything is better with butter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"305\" data-end=\"351\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"833\" data-end=\"851\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> This type of butter? Yes. Yeah!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"499\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"372\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And Malaysian curries in Pleasanton.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"499\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"786\" data-end=\"809\">Dashini Jeyathurai: \u003c/strong>It’s like the Malaysian embassy of the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"499\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"372\">Leslie Sbrocco: \u003c/strong>Just ahead on \u003cem data-start=\"473\" data-end=\"499\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"501\" data-end=\"609\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"501\" data-end=\"520\">Aurum Kathuria:\u003c/strong> You can tell when someone likes it based on how much of a sip they take. That was a sip!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"611\" data-end=\"639\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"611\" data-end=\"625\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> It’s so good!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"641\" data-end=\"1137\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"641\" data-end=\"660\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Hi, I’m Leslie Sbrocco. Welcome to \u003cem data-start=\"696\" data-end=\"722\">Check, Please! Bay Area,\u003c/em> the show where Bay Area residents review and talk about their favorite restaurants. We have three guests and each one recommends one of their favorite spots, and the other two go check them out to see what they think. Joining me at the \u003cem data-start=\"959\" data-end=\"975\">Check, Please!\u003c/em> table today, are Senior Director \u003cstrong data-start=\"1009\" data-end=\"1031\">Dashini Jeyathurai\u003c/strong>, healthcare administrator \u003cstrong data-start=\"1058\" data-end=\"1075\">Rashawn Moore\u003c/strong>, and facilities coordinator \u003cstrong data-start=\"1104\" data-end=\"1117\">Erin Hurd\u003c/strong>. Welcome, everyone.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1139\" data-end=\"1158\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1139\" data-end=\"1147\">All:\u003c/strong> Thank you!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1160\" data-end=\"1194\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1160\" data-end=\"1179\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Are you ready?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1196\" data-end=\"1249\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1196\" data-end=\"1207\">Guests:\u003c/strong> We’re ready. We’re so excited to dive in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1251\" data-end=\"1582\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1251\" data-end=\"1270\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Let’s do it. Alright, it’s time to say aloha to Erin’s favorite lunchtime hangout. Offering island classics like fresh poke, spam musubi, and loco moco just steps from the beach, it’s the perfect place to satisfy her Hawaiian comfort food cravings. Located along the waterfront in Benicia, it’s Got Plate Lunch.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1584\" data-end=\"1599\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1601\" data-end=\"1635\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1601\" data-end=\"1612\">Server:\u003c/strong> I have your loco moco!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1637\" data-end=\"1662\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1637\" data-end=\"1651\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Thank you!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1664\" data-end=\"1859\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1664\" data-end=\"1681\">Myk Bigornia:\u003c/strong> The aloha spirit in Hawaii is probably like no other place in the world. How are you guys doing? You brought the whole baseball team! We try to represent more of an island vibe.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1861\" data-end=\"1890\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1861\" data-end=\"1874\">Customer:\u003c/strong> Happy birthday!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1892\" data-end=\"1918\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1892\" data-end=\"1902\">Group:\u003c/strong> Happy birthday!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1920\" data-end=\"2311\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1920\" data-end=\"1937\">Myk Bigornia:\u003c/strong> Slower paced, more relaxed. Got Plate Lunch is a restaurant that brings back the flavors of Hawaii that my wife and I grew up with. Plate lunch is a multicultural food. Japanese, Chinese, Filipino… It’s derived from the days of the plantation workers, all different ethnicities, eating lunch together, and they didn’t know how to communicate. But through lunch, they did.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2313\" data-end=\"2415\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2313\" data-end=\"2323\">Jamie Bigornia:\u003c/strong> Plate lunch is two scoops of rice, meat entree, and mac salad. Everything we make is fresh.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2417\" data-end=\"2535\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2417\" data-end=\"2434\">Myk Bigornia:\u003c/strong> Fresh ahi poke… Bath time, kimchi. Our Kalua pork and cabbage is smoked, slow cooked for 24 hours.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2537\" data-end=\"2571\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2537\" data-end=\"2550\">Customer:\u003c/strong> This is my favorite.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2573\" data-end=\"2673\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2573\" data-end=\"2583\">Jamie Bigornia:\u003c/strong> So, it’s flavorful, moist, and what we say in Hawaii… That means, like, it literally…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2675\" data-end=\"2711\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2675\" data-end=\"2689\">Customers:\u003c/strong> Delicious. Delicious!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2713\" data-end=\"3018\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2713\" data-end=\"2730\">Myk Bigornia:\u003c/strong> I love to eat the loco moco. I eat it five or six times a week. Ground beef patties seared on the flat top placed on top of rice with two over-easy eggs, and then smothered in our own proprietary brown gravy. It’s fabulous. [Chuckles] It’s fabulous. I’m getting hungry thinking about it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3020\" data-end=\"3035\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3037\" data-end=\"3185\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3037\" data-end=\"3054\">Myk Bigornia:\u003c/strong> In Benicia, I think there’s three or four restaurants with a true water view, and everybody tells us that we’ve got the best view.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3187\" data-end=\"3292\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3187\" data-end=\"3197\">Jamie Bigornia:\u003c/strong> We get to see the sunset every night, so be comfortable and enjoy the view and enjoy the food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3294\" data-end=\"3405\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3294\" data-end=\"3313\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, Erin. Got Plate Lunch started out as a food truck. Is that how you first found it?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3407\" data-end=\"3984\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3407\" data-end=\"3421\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Actually, no. I actually found them at their brick and mortar store. I was just craving some really good Hawaiian food that wasn’t a chain restaurant, and had those comfort foods that I look for. My favorite dish is absolutely, hands down, the ultimate loco moco that they have because it is so simple, yet so delicious. Two scoops of rice and two hamburger patties on the ultimate, actually, and two pieces of spam, and then two runny eggs, and then you top that with some brown gravy and a side of mac salad. And it is just all the calories, but all delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3986\" data-end=\"4033\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3986\" data-end=\"4005\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And a carb lover’s delight.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4035\" data-end=\"4061\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4035\" data-end=\"4049\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Absolutely!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4063\" data-end=\"4104\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4063\" data-end=\"4082\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Carb lover’s delight.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"60\" data-end=\"784\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"833\" data-end=\"851\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> I’ll usually start with a salad. I was going to be basic with, like, a regular garden one, but I’m like, no, let’s not be basic. What I had was the grilled pineapple salad and three different types of leaves, green leaves, and then they just grill the pineapple and then they make, like, a garlic pineapple vinaigrette. I even asked them, I was like, “What do y’all put in here?” And they were like, “We can’t tell you!” And then, I’m tasting it, I’m like, “I know exactly what that is.” So, I’m going to try to make it at home. I haven’t yet, but it was so good. I love the smokiness from the grilled pineapple. I’ve never had that on a salad before and it was amazing. And then, I had the loaded tater tots.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"786\" data-end=\"831\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"786\" data-end=\"809\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Ooh, I got that, too!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"833\" data-end=\"984\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"833\" data-end=\"851\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> So good, with the smokiness from the meat, and it had, like, honey mustard sauce, but then it had a lot of tang and really upped it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"986\" data-end=\"1073\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"986\" data-end=\"1009\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> I loved how crispy those were. I like the salad idea next time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1075\" data-end=\"1124\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1075\" data-end=\"1089\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> You go straight for the loco moco.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1126\" data-end=\"1277\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1126\" data-end=\"1149\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Oh, I absolutely do. I mean, I do have, there’s the spam muwasabi, and so, that has a actual wasabi aioli that they put on top.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1279\" data-end=\"1337\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1279\" data-end=\"1298\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That’s a little creative twist, right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1339\" data-end=\"1444\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1339\" data-end=\"1353\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it has that little bit of kick, but not too much, from the wasabi. And it’s amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1446\" data-end=\"1803\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1446\" data-end=\"1469\">Rashawn Moore: \u003c/strong> I got the Portuguese sausage musubi. It was so good, not like normal musubi. It comes with the rice on the top and the bottom, has a little bit of a sweet teriyaki sauce in the middle, and then, it’s wrapped in seaweed. The Portuguese sausage has a little bit of a smokiness and the sweetness, and it’s just really, really delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1805\" data-end=\"2129\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1805\" data-end=\"1819\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I also had Da Mixed Plate, which has Portuguese sausage, there’s spam, and then there’s also some teriyaki chicken, and it’s just perfectly grilled, loaded with the soy sauce, the umami, the sweetness. And that chicken just has the perfect amount of char on it to where it gives it flavor, but not bitterness.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2131\" data-end=\"2411\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1446\" data-end=\"1469\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> I also had an udon noodle dish which came with vegetables. We had cabbage, peppers… This one was a little more on the sweet side for me. I would love something a little bit more savory, but we took it home, added some hot sauce to it, and got it to my flavor.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2413\" data-end=\"2446\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2413\" data-end=\"2432\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Unbelievable.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2448\" data-end=\"2705\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2448\" data-end=\"2462\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I do get the saimin, which is very Hawaiian, traditional. It is just like this big bowl of these egg noodle saimin, and it has slices of spam. It just has all of this umami and flavor. It’s just so delicious, it takes me right back to Hawaii.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2707\" data-end=\"2794\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2707\" data-end=\"2726\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And they do have sort of Hawaiian drinks, and Hawaiian, you know…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2796\" data-end=\"2819\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2796\" data-end=\"2814\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2821\" data-end=\"2909\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2821\" data-end=\"2835\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Yeah. The last time that I went, they had something called the sun mosas.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2911\" data-end=\"2935\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2911\" data-end=\"2930\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Ooh!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2937\" data-end=\"3032\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2937\" data-end=\"2951\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> So, they had a flight of mimosas that were mixed with different flavors of wine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3034\" data-end=\"3096\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3034\" data-end=\"3053\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That’ll really put you in the island mood.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3098\" data-end=\"3133\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3098\" data-end=\"3112\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Oh, yes. Absolutely!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3135\" data-end=\"3527\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3135\" data-end=\"3158\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> I got one of the ube mochi desserts, which was really delicious. I brought my 7-year-old with me, and so there had to be a dessert ordered at the end of the meal. One of the things that I noticed about this place was that it reminded me so much of, like, restaurants that I’d gone to in Hawaii. It’s a really great, like, chill island vibe restaurant, which was great.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3529\" data-end=\"3749\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3529\" data-end=\"3547\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> I went there right when it opened, and within the next 20 minutes, it was packed. And a place that’s so far away and by itself, you wouldn’t expect it to be super, super packed, but they was coming in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3751\" data-end=\"3928\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3751\" data-end=\"3770\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright! If you would like to go to Got Plate Lunch, it’s located on West 9th Street in Benicia, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $25.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"78\" data-end=\"387\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"78\" data-end=\"97\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Rashawn’s a culinary school grad who dreams of having his own restaurant one day. In the meantime, he’s happy to perch right up at the counter at his neighborhood trattoria, watching the chefs prepare all the classic Italian fare his heart desires. Located in Berkeley, it’s Via del Corso.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"389\" data-end=\"755\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"389\" data-end=\"409\">Massimo Orlando:\u003c/strong> Via del Corso is a neighborhood restaurant. Come in, relax, and just have a great time. Via del Corso is a boulevard in Rome. A lot of the regions of Italy have their names on the streets that come into that boulevard. It’s a landmark in Rome. When we opened the restaurant, we thought we didn’t want to just cook one region, but all over Italy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"757\" data-end=\"915\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"757\" data-end=\"776\">Peter Chastain:\u003c/strong> We’ve been working together for about 22 years. He’s from Emilia-Romagna. My grandfather was from Tuscany. So, we argue about seasoning…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"917\" data-end=\"1156\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"917\" data-end=\"937\">Massimo Orlando:\u003c/strong> My dad’s from Sicily. I do a lot of southern Italian cooking, as well. My cooking started when I was a really young age from my grandma. We used to make ravioli during holidays. The love of food, that’s how we started.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1158\" data-end=\"1630\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1158\" data-end=\"1177\">Peter Chastain:\u003c/strong> These are beautiful truffles. We use products that a lot of people cut corners on. Prosciutto di San Daniele that’s 20 years, not 10 years. Burrata that’s made by a women-owned cooperative in Puglia and it’s just to die for. Real aceto balsamico tradizionale. We make pasta uovo, which is fresh egg pasta. One of the signature dishes is tagliatelle al ragù. People call it bolognese, but it is not bolognese. It’s a ragù from the countryside of Emilia.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1632\" data-end=\"1692\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1632\" data-end=\"1652\">Massimo Orlando:\u003c/strong> My grandma used to cook me tagliatelle.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1694\" data-end=\"1764\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1694\" data-end=\"1713\">Peter Chastain:\u003c/strong> People go nuts for that. We really like that dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1766\" data-end=\"1819\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1766\" data-end=\"1786\">Massimo Orlando:\u003c/strong> Can’t take that off of the menu.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1821\" data-end=\"2350\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1821\" data-end=\"1840\">Peter Chastain:\u003c/strong> Yeah, that’s right. Our wine list is exclusively Italian, which is rare in California. Wine is part of the meal in Italy. We had to have a glass of wine before we left the table when we were 7 years old in my family. The biggest comments we get from people is that it’s such a great vibe. People tell me that almost every night. It’s a small place, and yes, it’s a little bit loud, but the food speaks for itself. We’re trying to really ring the real memory bells of Italy cooked here in Berkeley, California.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2352\" data-end=\"2502\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2352\" data-end=\"2371\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Fantastic. That’s fantastic. Alright, Rashawn, is this the next best thing to, you know, being on a trip to Florence or something?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2504\" data-end=\"2556\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2504\" data-end=\"2522\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Absolutely. Might even be better.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2558\" data-end=\"2580\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2558\" data-end=\"2569\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2582\" data-end=\"2647\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2582\" data-end=\"2600\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> You have to deal with the hassle of the plane.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2649\" data-end=\"2699\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2649\" data-end=\"2668\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Yeah, exactly. No plane rides.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2701\" data-end=\"2898\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2701\" data-end=\"2719\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Being born and raised in Berkeley, you know, I’ve watched a bunch of different restaurants come and go. This one has been there for years. Great chefs, great service, great wine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2900\" data-end=\"2944\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2900\" data-end=\"2919\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What do you order first?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2946\" data-end=\"3241\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2946\" data-end=\"2964\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> So, I always start with the lattuga, and it’s almost like a Caesar salad, but heavy on the citrus and the lemon. It also comes with the parmesan cheese on top. This romaine lettuce is really crisp. There’s not a wilted leaf in there at all. Very lightly dressed. It’s perfect.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3243\" data-end=\"3301\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3243\" data-end=\"3262\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. Did you start with the salad?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3303\" data-end=\"3392\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3303\" data-end=\"3317\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I did not start with the salad, but I did have the burrata and prosciutto.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3394\" data-end=\"3443\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3394\" data-end=\"3413\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You can’t go wrong with that!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3445\" data-end=\"3739\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3445\" data-end=\"3459\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> You cannot, it’s drizzled with this aged balsamic that’s sweet, yet has a little bit of tang to kind of balance out the creaminess of the cheese. And then, the saltiness of the prosciutto. It’s a healthy portion, too. I split it with my dining partner, and we just devoured that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3741\" data-end=\"3785\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3741\" data-end=\"3760\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What did you start with?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3787\" data-end=\"3877\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3787\" data-end=\"3810\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> I think it’s a trend. Erin and I are not starting with the salads.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3879\" data-end=\"3901\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3879\" data-end=\"3890\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3903\" data-end=\"4129\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3903\" data-end=\"3926\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> I got the crostone. This came with a mound of tuna, beans, and I love the amount of herbs that they had on this because it gave it a really citrusy, bright flavor and that really gets your palate going.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4131\" data-end=\"4208\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4131\" data-end=\"4150\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Where did you move to after that first delicious burrata?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4210\" data-end=\"4639\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4210\" data-end=\"4224\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I had the tagliolini alle vongole. It was just filled with so many manila clams, and the fresh pasta was to die for. It was absolutely my favorite. Just had all this, like, buttery, winey sauce. Definitely a shareable amount. You know, we had expressed that we were going to be sharing our dishes a little bit, so they were more than happy to bring over an extra plate, some extra forks, just extremely hospitable.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4641\" data-end=\"4678\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4641\" data-end=\"4660\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, good service.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4680\" data-end=\"4706\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4680\" data-end=\"4694\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"49\" data-end=\"231\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"49\" data-end=\"67\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> My go-to dish is the pollo alla sostanza. It’s a chicken breast cooked in brown butter, and it’s perfectly crisp on the outside and very, very juicy in the middle.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"233\" data-end=\"451\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"233\" data-end=\"256\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> You know when you’re at a Mexican restaurant and the fajitas come out and there’s the sizzling sound — that had that effect because you bring that out and everyone looks at what you’re ordering.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"453\" data-end=\"576\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"453\" data-end=\"471\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> And there’s that nuttiness that you get with the brown butter. And it’s perfect for that bread, as well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"578\" data-end=\"631\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"578\" data-end=\"597\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Everything is better with butter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"633\" data-end=\"679\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"633\" data-end=\"647\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Yeah. This type of butter? Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"681\" data-end=\"812\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"681\" data-end=\"699\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Yeah. And it comes with a slice of lemon. So, you can just squeeze that right on top, and it really balances it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"814\" data-end=\"1078\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"814\" data-end=\"832\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Another dish I had was the braised oxtail stuffed ravioli. It has, like, really great savory flavors complemented by white wine sauce. Another one of those dishes that people are like, “I want that,” you know, from the other table. It was great.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1080\" data-end=\"1462\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1080\" data-end=\"1103\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> And I also got another pasta dish, something called torchio, and this was a really interesting pasta, I’d never had it before, and it came with leeks, as well as chanterelle mushrooms. But what surprised me was the butternut squash in there. So, it added this sweet flavor that I wasn’t really expecting with the pasta. But another one that I really enjoyed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1464\" data-end=\"1582\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1464\" data-end=\"1478\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I had a seasonal mocktail that they had listed. It was a Bellini-type cocktail and it was so delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1584\" data-end=\"1832\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1584\" data-end=\"1602\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> The bartender’s really knowledgeable, too, so you can go up to him and just be like, “Hey, these are my flavors,” and Justin literally will put a whole bunch of ideas in your head and you’re like, “Whatever, I’ll try everything.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1834\" data-end=\"1889\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1834\" data-end=\"1853\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now, did you have room for dessert?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1891\" data-end=\"1917\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1891\" data-end=\"1905\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1919\" data-end=\"1950\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1919\" data-end=\"1938\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Okay, good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1952\" data-end=\"2235\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1952\" data-end=\"1966\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I had the affogato — vanilla, so I went classic. And the little shot of espresso, I love that it came separate because I was able to pour a little bit on, eat a little bit, pour a little bit more, finish it, but then I definitely drank out of that little dessert bowl.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2237\" data-end=\"2265\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2237\" data-end=\"2256\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2267\" data-end=\"2570\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2267\" data-end=\"2281\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> It was so good! I also had the creme caramel di zucca, and it was so delicious. It was like this pumpkin cheesecake sprinkled with crushed Amaretti cookies, as well as two big pieces of Amaretti cookies right next to it, beautiful dessert, and it was such a perfect ending to our evening.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2572\" data-end=\"2713\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2572\" data-end=\"2591\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And do you feel like, you know, it was a reasonably priced restaurant for the atmosphere and for the quality of the food?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2715\" data-end=\"2880\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2715\" data-end=\"2729\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Absolutely. Especially for the standard of service that they provide and the quality of food. That was, like, a perfect date night kind of restaurant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2882\" data-end=\"3096\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2882\" data-end=\"2900\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> What I noticed when I walked in immediately was just how buzzy the vibe of the restaurant was. It just was like a really warm energy that translated through the whole restaurant, so I loved that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3098\" data-end=\"3163\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3098\" data-end=\"3117\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And it saves you the money of going to Italy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3165\" data-end=\"3194\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3165\" data-end=\"3176\">Guests:\u003c/strong> Right! [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3196\" data-end=\"3224\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3196\" data-end=\"3210\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> We love that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3226\" data-end=\"3398\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3226\" data-end=\"3245\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> If you would like to try Via del Corso, it’s located on Shattuck Avenue in Berkeley, and the average dinner tab per person without drinks is around $70.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"427\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"104\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It’s been more than 20 years since Dashini moved to America from her native Malaysia, and in all that time, she’s dreamt of finding a restaurant offering authentic flavors of home. Luckily, she’s finally found a spot that serves up all her childhood favorites. Located in the heart of Pleasanton, it’s Curry Leaves Bistro.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"429\" data-end=\"444\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"446\" data-end=\"837\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"446\" data-end=\"463\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> Curry Leaves Bistro is a Malaysian restaurant specializing in Malaysian street food. Mee rebus. I’m originally from an island called Penang. You ask any Malaysian, you know, “When someone says Penang, what is the first thing that you say?” They’ll say “Food.” We like our gravy a little bit thick. Truth be told, we eat seven or eight times a day. It’s just the way we are.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"839\" data-end=\"854\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"856\" data-end=\"1237\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"856\" data-end=\"873\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> Defining Malaysian food is not an easy task. There are so many cultures and influences from all over the world. You want something savory, something sweet, you want something spicy, there’s something for everyone. Curry leaf is something that all cultures in Malaysia primarily use. The Indian, Chinese, Malay, and the Peranakan cultures, they all use curry leaf.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1239\" data-end=\"1653\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1239\" data-end=\"1256\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> One of my favorite things to cook is char koay teow. It is a flat rice noodle similar to Pad Thai. Char koay teow is a favorite of everybody in Malaysia. Drinks are part of the Malaysian cuisine, but you know, our most popular item, which is the teh tarik, which is literally translated to “pulled tea.” We mix them and cool them down by pouring from one cup to the other cup as high as possible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1655\" data-end=\"1692\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1655\" data-end=\"1665\">Group:\u003c/strong> Wow! [cheers and applause]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1694\" data-end=\"1718\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1694\" data-end=\"1707\">Customer:\u003c/strong> Thank you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1720\" data-end=\"1759\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1720\" data-end=\"1737\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> Don’t change a thing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1761\" data-end=\"1792\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1761\" data-end=\"1774\">Customer:\u003c/strong> Okay, okay, okay!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1794\" data-end=\"2084\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1794\" data-end=\"1811\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> The best compliment that I can get from any Malaysian who comes in here is like, “Wow, this is just like going back home to eat. Now, I don’t have to fly back to eat.” Your regular. It makes me feel good that I’ve done justice to our national food and to my favorite dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2086\" data-end=\"2101\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2103\" data-end=\"2209\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2103\" data-end=\"2122\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, Dashini, it’s been a challenge for you, hasn’t it, to find real Malaysian cuisine?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2211\" data-end=\"2483\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2211\" data-end=\"2234\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> It has been. I tend to try and get the adjacent cuisines like Thai food, et cetera, but it’s not the same, and I’ve been on the hunt, and I finally chanced upon Curry Leaves Bistro and lo and behold, it’s like the Malaysian embassy of the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2485\" data-end=\"2507\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2485\" data-end=\"2496\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2509\" data-end=\"2556\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2509\" data-end=\"2528\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You found it! You found it!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2558\" data-end=\"2599\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2558\" data-end=\"2581\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> I found it, yeah!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2601\" data-end=\"2682\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2601\" data-end=\"2620\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And what is it? What do you, you know, draws you in the door?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2684\" data-end=\"3163\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2684\" data-end=\"2707\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Oh, the dish that brings me into that restaurant is char koay teow, which is a childhood favorite. And char means, sort of, stir-fried. And it’s rice noodles cooked with soy sauce, bean sprouts, green chives in there, tons of shrimp, which I love. This real flavor from the wok that it’s cooked in — that sense of, I think it’s called wok hei — and that is something that char koay teow from Curry Leaves Bistro has in spades. So, that’s one of my go-tos.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3165\" data-end=\"3230\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3165\" data-end=\"3184\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And what did you start with when you went in?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3232\" data-end=\"3413\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3232\" data-end=\"3255\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> So, as a starter, I had the roti canai, which is, like, the roti crispy bread paired with the curry. And I have a weakness for, like, layered crispy bread…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3415\" data-end=\"3447\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3415\" data-end=\"3434\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Who doesn’t?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3449\" data-end=\"3578\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3449\" data-end=\"3472\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Right, exactly. And it was so buttery. And then, you just dip it right in that curry, and it was so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3580\" data-end=\"3741\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3580\" data-end=\"3598\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Super delicious to just dip it inside the curry that had a piece of chicken in it that was an actual piece of chicken with a bone still in it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3743\" data-end=\"3765\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3743\" data-end=\"3754\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3767\" data-end=\"4120\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3767\" data-end=\"3785\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Like, it was great bang for your buck for just this one plate. And I also had the mee goreng, and it is kind of like a Chinese chow mein. That’s what it reminded me of. It came with a healthy portion of shrimp, and calamari, and just beansprouts for crunch, and green onions for freshness. And it was just a delicious, delicious meal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4122\" data-end=\"4723\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4122\" data-end=\"4145\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> So, one of the dishes that I really like to also get there is called nasi kandar. And that means carried rice, and it was brought to Malaysia by Indian immigrants who would sell rice on wooden poles. And so, that rice dish comes with a beautiful curry as well as a side of pickles. So, it’s a nice complement to the spiciness of the curry. Always comes with some kind of protein, I get it with chicken, but my daughter is vegetarian and so she got it with tofu and really enjoyed it. And we got something called mee rebus, which was a noodle dish that came with a potato gravy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4725\" data-end=\"4775\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4725\" data-end=\"4742\">Jai Kandayah:\u003c/strong> It’s a sweet potato based gravy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4777\" data-end=\"4953\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4777\" data-end=\"4800\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Sounds dodgy, but it’s actually very good. And on top of it was a couple of crispy shrimp. It has udon vibes, but yes, I went to town on that, loved it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4955\" data-end=\"5008\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4955\" data-end=\"4974\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you have any of those dishes?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5010\" data-end=\"5059\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5010\" data-end=\"5024\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I didn’t have any of those dishes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5061\" data-end=\"5098\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5061\" data-end=\"5080\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> But now you know.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5100\" data-end=\"5175\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5100\" data-end=\"5114\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Yeah, exactly. And I will get everything that you just said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5177\" data-end=\"5211\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5177\" data-end=\"5200\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Next time!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"150\" data-end=\"249\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"150\" data-end=\"164\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I also got a fried chicken, kind of traditional fried chicken, but spiced very well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"251\" data-end=\"326\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"251\" data-end=\"268\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> We double fry our chicken so that it is moist and crispy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"328\" data-end=\"401\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"328\" data-end=\"346\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> And yeah, it’s really simple, but it’s really crunchy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"403\" data-end=\"470\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"403\" data-end=\"422\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And is that a Malaysian traditional dish or no?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"472\" data-end=\"512\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"472\" data-end=\"489\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> We love fried chicken.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"514\" data-end=\"536\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"514\" data-end=\"525\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"538\" data-end=\"669\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"538\" data-end=\"555\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> You know, I mean, in Malaysia, you could get fried chicken for breakfast. So, you can eat it any time of the day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"671\" data-end=\"785\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"671\" data-end=\"689\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> It was the spices that really got me. You know, it’s not seasoned how a normal fried chicken…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"787\" data-end=\"818\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"787\" data-end=\"804\">Rounak Dumra:\u003c/strong> That’s right.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"820\" data-end=\"960\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"820\" data-end=\"838\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> You know? It definitely had the seasons from Malaysia. Then, I got a rose drink. Very smooth, almost like horchata vibes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"962\" data-end=\"999\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"962\" data-end=\"985\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Yes! Bandung?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1001\" data-end=\"1167\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1001\" data-end=\"1019\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Bandung, yes, exactly. It was so different because I’ve never had a floral drink. I got a large, and it was just like, I have to drink all of this.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1169\" data-end=\"1305\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1169\" data-end=\"1192\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> So, I tried it, and I’m not much of a floral kind of person, but you know who drank all of it was my 3-year-old!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1307\" data-end=\"1329\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1307\" data-end=\"1318\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1331\" data-end=\"1433\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1331\" data-end=\"1354\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> She said, “Ooh, it’s a pink, pretty drink! And it tastes sweet and delicious!”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1435\" data-end=\"1511\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1435\" data-end=\"1454\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And did you feel like the portions were big? Just right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1513\" data-end=\"1543\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1513\" data-end=\"1527\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Decently sized.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1545\" data-end=\"1580\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1545\" data-end=\"1568\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1582\" data-end=\"1653\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1582\" data-end=\"1601\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you bring any home or did you eat it all there?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1655\" data-end=\"1683\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1655\" data-end=\"1669\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> I ate it all.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1685\" data-end=\"1707\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1685\" data-end=\"1696\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1709\" data-end=\"1782\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1709\" data-end=\"1728\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Well, it’s a real discovery, isn’t it, for everybody.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1784\" data-end=\"1820\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1784\" data-end=\"1807\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> I love that!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1822\" data-end=\"1896\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1822\" data-end=\"1841\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And hard for you to find! It was hard for you to find.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1898\" data-end=\"1969\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1898\" data-end=\"1921\">Dashini Jeyathurai:\u003c/strong> It was hard to find but now we’ve got our spot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1971\" data-end=\"1993\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1971\" data-end=\"1982\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1995\" data-end=\"2174\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1995\" data-end=\"2014\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> If you would like to try Curry Leaves Bistro, it’s located on Las Positas Boulevard in Pleasanton, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $25.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2176\" data-end=\"2302\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2176\" data-end=\"2195\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And now, reporter \u003cstrong data-start=\"2214\" data-end=\"2234\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong> samples South Asian treats and beats in the heart of San Francisco.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2304\" data-end=\"2456\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2304\" data-end=\"2325\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Bhangra and Beats is an all-ages free night market that celebrates South Asian culture through food, through music, through dance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2458\" data-end=\"2496\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2458\" data-end=\"2473\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> Lift them up and walk!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2498\" data-end=\"2673\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2498\" data-end=\"2519\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> I heard that tonight’s celebration was especially important because this is the first time that San Francisco has put on an event that celebrates Diwali.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2675\" data-end=\"2961\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2675\" data-end=\"2690\">Vicki Virk:\u003c/strong> Yes, Diwali is a time to reflect, come together, give thanks, and to remember the beautiful things in life. There is such a massive population of South Asians in the Bay Area, and to be able to have their culture celebrated at a platform like this is absolutely amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2963\" data-end=\"2978\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2980\" data-end=\"3111\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2980\" data-end=\"2995\">Ranjan Dey:\u003c/strong> New Delhi Restaurant is a mixed immigrant family legacy business serving the most freaking Dey-licious Indian food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3113\" data-end=\"3178\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3113\" data-end=\"3134\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Dey-licious. A play on your last name, Dey?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3180\" data-end=\"3207\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3180\" data-end=\"3195\">Ranjan Dey:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3209\" data-end=\"3236\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3209\" data-end=\"3230\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3238\" data-end=\"3372\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3238\" data-end=\"3253\">Ranjan Dey:\u003c/strong> This is called joy bomb. A rice ball covered with panko batter and fried. And you will be so joyful, you will tear up.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3374\" data-end=\"3441\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3374\" data-end=\"3395\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Oh, okay, alright! Somebody grab me a tissue.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3443\" data-end=\"3510\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3443\" data-end=\"3458\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> Then you can do, screw the light bulb, pet the dog.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3512\" data-end=\"3552\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3512\" data-end=\"3533\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Is that the dance?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3554\" data-end=\"3581\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3554\" data-end=\"3569\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> Dance move!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3583\" data-end=\"3624\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3583\" data-end=\"3604\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> So, it goes like…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3626\" data-end=\"3652\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3626\" data-end=\"3641\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> Like that?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3654\" data-end=\"3695\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3654\" data-end=\"3675\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Yeah! There you go!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3697\" data-end=\"3759\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3697\" data-end=\"3718\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Alright, so I’ve danced. Now, can I eat?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3761\" data-end=\"3781\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3761\" data-end=\"3776\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> Yes!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3783\" data-end=\"3842\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3783\" data-end=\"3804\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> I do feel myself starting to tear up.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3844\" data-end=\"3869\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3844\" data-end=\"3859\">Ranjan Dey:\u003c/strong> Oh, yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3871\" data-end=\"3900\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3871\" data-end=\"3882\">Guests:\u003c/strong> That’s beautiful.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3902\" data-end=\"3934\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3902\" data-end=\"3923\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> [Chuckles]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3936\" data-end=\"4001\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3936\" data-end=\"3947\">Vendor:\u003c/strong> Wahjeewah specializes in Indian barbecue street food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4003\" data-end=\"4081\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4003\" data-end=\"4024\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> So, Wahjeewah, what does the name of your business mean?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4083\" data-end=\"4392\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4083\" data-end=\"4094\">Vendor:\u003c/strong> It’s an expression, when you eat something amazing, you’re like, “Wow, that’s fantastic.” When you’re satisfied, your heart speaks like “wahjeewah.” This is the lamb kebab. We wrapped it in a naan bread that we cooked fresh here. It has some pickled onions, some chutney on the side for some heat.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4394\" data-end=\"4507\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4394\" data-end=\"4415\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Here we go! Honestly, like, the lamb is so tender. Oh, my gosh, this is wahjeewah for sure!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4509\" data-end=\"4836\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4509\" data-end=\"4520\">Vendor:\u003c/strong> Barfia is a unique Indian confections and dessert business. Barfia’s almost like a fudge, but it’s not made out of chocolate. It’s made out of dried milk powder, ghee, and sugar. Here we have khoya, raspberry white chocolate, peanut butter, ube, Oreo, mango coconut, pistachio, celebration cake, and orange blossom.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4838\" data-end=\"4891\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4838\" data-end=\"4859\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Happy Diwali! Here we go, okay!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4893\" data-end=\"4916\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4893\" data-end=\"4904\">Vendor:\u003c/strong> Here we go.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4918\" data-end=\"5008\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4918\" data-end=\"4939\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> It’s a really light, very subtle flavor of pistachio. Mm, delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5010\" data-end=\"5039\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5010\" data-end=\"5021\">Vendor:\u003c/strong> Delicious, right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5041\" data-end=\"5078\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5041\" data-end=\"5062\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> That’s so good!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5080\" data-end=\"5411\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5080\" data-end=\"5099\">Aurum Kathuria:\u003c/strong> Naya Delights is all about the love of rose. And these days, I find a way to infuse it into every little thing I can. Here, we’ve got our rose chai — oat milk, chai latte, and then we add some rose water and rose syrup to really give it that rose flavor. We top it with crushed pistachios and fresh rose petals.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5413\" data-end=\"5523\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5413\" data-end=\"5434\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> You’re in pink. I got a little pink here. And a pink straw. Wow, you’re really on brand.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5525\" data-end=\"5553\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5525\" data-end=\"5544\">Aurum Kathuria:\u003c/strong> [laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5555\" data-end=\"5617\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5555\" data-end=\"5576\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Oh, my gosh, it’s so light. I want more.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5619\" data-end=\"5629\">[cheering]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5631\" data-end=\"5646\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5648\" data-end=\"6152\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5648\" data-end=\"5667\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I have to thank my fabulous guests on this week’s show, \u003cstrong data-start=\"5724\" data-end=\"5746\">Dashini Jeyathurai\u003c/strong>, who shared a taste of Malaysia at Curry Leaves Bistro in Pleasanton, \u003cstrong data-start=\"5817\" data-end=\"5834\">Rashawn Moore\u003c/strong>, who can’t get enough of the butter-basted chicken at Via del Corso in Berkeley, and \u003cstrong data-start=\"5920\" data-end=\"5933\">Erin Hurd\u003c/strong>, lover of the loco moco at Got Plate Lunch in Benicia. Join us next time when three more guests will recommend their favorite spots right here on \u003cem data-start=\"6080\" data-end=\"6106\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em> I’m \u003cstrong data-start=\"6111\" data-end=\"6129\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong> and I’ll see you then.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6154\" data-end=\"6199\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6154\" data-end=\"6173\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Cheers! Did you have fun?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6201\" data-end=\"6225\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6201\" data-end=\"6219\">Rashawn Moore:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6227\" data-end=\"6253\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6227\" data-end=\"6241\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6255\" data-end=\"6274\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6255\" data-end=\"6266\">Guests:\u003c/strong> Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6276\" data-end=\"6300\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6276\" data-end=\"6290\">Erin Hurd:\u003c/strong> Whoo-hoo!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6302\" data-end=\"6510\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6302\" data-end=\"6323\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Bhangra and Beats is a brainchild of Into the Streets, a non-stop Bhangra. It’s so time to come together, eat good food, dress up in beautiful clothing and just celebrate being together.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6512\" data-end=\"6533\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6512\" data-end=\"6522\">Woman:\u003c/strong> And dance!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6535\" data-end=\"6567\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6535\" data-end=\"6556\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> And dance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6569\" data-end=\"6652\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6569\" data-end=\"6590\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Can you teach me, like, one dance move so I have something…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6654\" data-end=\"6722\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6654\" data-end=\"6669\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> Absolutely. Absolutely. Okay. So, clap, clap, dance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6724\" data-end=\"6778\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6724\" data-end=\"6745\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Oh, my gosh! Am I doing Bhangra?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6780\" data-end=\"6817\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6780\" data-end=\"6795\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> You’re doing Bhangra!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6819\" data-end=\"6841\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6819\" data-end=\"6830\">Guests:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6843\" data-end=\"6914\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6843\" data-end=\"6858\">Instructor:\u003c/strong> All else fails, you just have to bounce your shoulders.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/em>season 20, episode 2, airs Thursday, April 17, at 7:30 pm, on KQED 9. See other \u003ca href=\"http://www.kqed.org/tv/programs/index.jsp?pgmid=14084\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">television airtimes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Our culinary journey begins in the charming, historic Niles district of Fremont, where \u003cstrong>Skillet’z Cafe\u003c/strong> serves up bold breakfasts that locals can’t get enough of. Diners tuck into fluffy beignets, a decadent Monte Cristo sandwich, and stacks of Nutella-strawberry-banana pancakes — a meal best followed by a stroll through Niles’ antique shops and silent film history. In the heart of Oakland’s Chinatown, \u003cstrong>Peony Seafood\u003c/strong> offers a classic dim sum experience in one of the few Chinese banquet halls in the Bay Area. Guests can enjoy dishes like fried daikon cake wrapped in crispy rice noodles, salt-and-pepper custard tofu, and delicate steamed shrimp dumplings with cilantro, handmade fresh daily. The journey ends at \u003cstrong>Le Papillon\u003c/strong>, a San Jose fine-dining destination that has been dazzling diners for over 40 years with its elegant, French-inspired tasting menus. Highlights include the Dungeness crab soufflé with saffron and caviar, the melt-in-your-mouth grilled beef tenderloin with marrow emulsion, and the stunning black sesame terrine with toasted meringue and chocolate. The episode wraps up at the \u003cstrong>Niles Farmers Market\u003c/strong>, where Cecilia samples fresh malasadas and savory hand pies, and takes in the scene with some die-hard vintage car enthusiasts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_23448\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-23448 size-medium\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Guests-800x533.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Guests-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Guests-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Guests-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Guests-768x512.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Guests-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Guests.png 1620w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco joins guests Anna Mindess, Nima Alahari and Jason T. Douglass from KQED in San Francisco.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Get Restaurant Information:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://skilletz.cafe/\">\u003cstrong>Skillet’z Cafe\u003c/strong> (Fremont)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://peonyrestaurant.com/\">\u003cstrong>Peony Seafood\u003c/strong> (Oakland)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.lepapillon.com/\">\u003cstrong>Le Papillon \u003c/strong>(San Jose)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://nilesfarmersmarket.org/\">\u003cstrong>Niles Farmers Market\u003c/strong> (Fremont)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_20123\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-20123\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2019/04/Leslie-Headshot-Smokey-copy-800x540.jpg\" alt=\"Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine\" width=\"800\" height=\"540\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine \u003ccite>(Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the \u003ca href=\"http://ww2.kqed.org/checkplease/host-biography/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">host\u003c/a> of \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-23449\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-800x1015.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"1015\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-800x1015.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-1020x1294.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-160x203.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-768x974.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-1211x1536.png 1211w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-1615x2048.png 1615w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-1920x2435.png 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\">\u003cb>\u003ca href=\"http://www.textbookvineyards.com\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">Textbook 2022 “The Pey Family Reserve” Cabernet Sauvignon\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003c/b>\u003cem>Napa Valley, California $46\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>The Textbook wines are ones to seek out. Well-priced bottles overdeliver in quality, especially the Pey Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s a deeply hued, layered red that blends fruit from some of Napa Valley’s top vineyards. Dark fruit flavors and a supple texture make this a wine to enjoy now with hearty fare or cellar for a few years to gain more complexity. With an under-$50 price tag, it’s a fantastic deal when it comes to high-end Napa Valley Cabernet.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\">Founded by Jonathan Pey along with his late wife, Susan, their goal was to craft wines of elegance and balance that showcase “textbook” character. Winemaker Abigail Estrada carries out that vision with this classy red.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\">\u003ca href=\"http://www.Paulakornell.com\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003cb>Paula Kornell Brut Rosé, Méthode Champenoise Sparkling Wine\u003c/b>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003cem>California $25\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>When talking about the history of Napa Valley — and certainly the history of sparkling wine in California — the name Kornell looms large. Famed winemaker and vintner Hanns Kornell was born into a third-generation German winemaking family. He immigrated to the United States and through hard work and a partnership with his talented wife, Marilouise, was able to purchase the iconic Larkmead Winery in 1958. There he made the highest quality sparkling wine using the traditional French method. Today, his daughter, Paula Kornell, has her own namesake bubbly, and it lives up to the family’s commitment of quality and value.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\">This beautifully pale pink sparkler is a wine to love. The attractive bottle catches your eye, but it’s the elegant wine inside that puts a smile on your face. A blend of mostly Pinot Noir with Chardonnay, red-berry and floral-scented aromas are complemented by delicate, crisp flavors. Enjoy a glass to begin your night, then pair it with savory dishes to a lightly sweet dessert. It’s a stylish sparkler worth twice the price.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Episode Transcript\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"102\" data-end=\"160\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"102\" data-end=\"121\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Good old country cooking in Fremont…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"162\" data-end=\"243\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"162\" data-end=\"179\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I don’t care about the calories. I don’t read them. I just eat.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"245\" data-end=\"298\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"245\" data-end=\"264\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> …dim sum delights in Oakland…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"300\" data-end=\"351\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"300\" data-end=\"317\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> A symphony of different textures.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"420\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"372\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> …and contemporary French cuisine in San Jose.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"422\" data-end=\"484\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"422\" data-end=\"441\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> It’s never changed. It’s always beautiful.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"486\" data-end=\"546\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"486\" data-end=\"505\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Just ahead on \u003cem data-start=\"520\" data-end=\"546\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"548\" data-end=\"621\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"548\" data-end=\"569\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> There’s sugar everywhere! Mmm! These are beautiful.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"623\" data-end=\"638\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"640\" data-end=\"1123\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"640\" data-end=\"659\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Hi, I’m Leslie Sbrocco. Welcome to \u003cem data-start=\"695\" data-end=\"721\">Check, Please! Bay Area,\u003c/em> the show where Bay Area residents review and talk about their favorite restaurants. Now, we have three guests, and each one recommends one of their favorite spots, and the other two go check them out to see what they think. Joining me at the \u003cem data-start=\"964\" data-end=\"980\">Check, Please!\u003c/em> table today are ASL interpreter and food writer \u003cstrong data-start=\"1029\" data-end=\"1045\">Anna Mindess\u003c/strong>, tech sales expert \u003cstrong data-start=\"1065\" data-end=\"1081\">Nima Alahari\u003c/strong>, and patient advocate \u003cstrong data-start=\"1104\" data-end=\"1122\">Jason Douglass\u003c/strong>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1125\" data-end=\"1313\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1125\" data-end=\"1144\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Welcome, everyone.\u003cbr data-start=\"1163\" data-end=\"1166\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1166\" data-end=\"1183\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Thank you.\u003cbr data-start=\"1194\" data-end=\"1197\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1197\" data-end=\"1216\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Thank you.\u003cbr data-start=\"1227\" data-end=\"1230\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1230\" data-end=\"1249\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Nice to be here?\u003cbr data-start=\"1266\" data-end=\"1269\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1269\" data-end=\"1288\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Very excited to be here.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1315\" data-end=\"1615\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1315\" data-end=\"1334\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Nima gets things started with his bustling breakfast spot. Offering American diner classics paired with over-the-top, Instagrammable lattes and shakes, it’s his favorite way to jump-start the day. Nestled in the heart of Fremont’s historic Niles neighborhood, it’s Skillet’z Cafe.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1617\" data-end=\"1845\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1617\" data-end=\"1635\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> Skillet’z is an American diner, old country cooking, but with a Mexican flair. The chefs are from Zacatecas, Mexico, and so they’ve brought a lot of the food that they grew up with, that their grandmas cooked.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1847\" data-end=\"1888\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1847\" data-end=\"1855\">Man:\u003c/strong> My go-to is usually the burrito.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1890\" data-end=\"2014\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1890\" data-end=\"1908\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> Our food comes out super hot, super crispy, super flavorful. Breakfast made with lots of love and huevos.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2016\" data-end=\"2093\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2016\" data-end=\"2034\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> How’s the food and everything?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2065\" data-end=\"2068\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2068\" data-end=\"2076\">Man:\u003c/strong> Good. Thank you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2095\" data-end=\"2282\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2095\" data-end=\"2113\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> I was a regular customer for over 10 years. I would eat at Skillet’z at least once a week. There was an opportunity to become a partner, so I jumped at the opportunity.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2284\" data-end=\"2357\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2284\" data-end=\"2302\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> This is the sausage omelette.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2332\" data-end=\"2335\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2335\" data-end=\"2345\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Yeah, here.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2359\" data-end=\"2457\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2359\" data-end=\"2377\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> A lot of the dishes are named after some of our team members and staff members.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2459\" data-end=\"2519\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2459\" data-end=\"2469\">Woman:\u003c/strong> I’m [indistinct], and you’re eating at Skillet’z.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2521\" data-end=\"2686\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2521\" data-end=\"2539\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> They just named a dish after me. It’s a scramble that comes with all meats and all veggies and a side of bacon. It’s called the Jonathan Scramble.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2688\" data-end=\"2934\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2688\" data-end=\"2706\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> When I first came to Skillet’z, I was told that the salsa is so good you could drink it. And that is literally what I do every time. I will pour salsa all over my food. Highly recommend pairing it with all of our savory dishes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2936\" data-end=\"2951\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2953\" data-end=\"3043\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2953\" data-end=\"2971\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> We really treat all of our customers like family.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3021\" data-end=\"3024\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3024\" data-end=\"3034\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Alright!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3045\" data-end=\"3265\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3045\" data-end=\"3063\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> They say that breakfast is the most important part of your day, and it’s just food that makes you feel good, food that makes you feel like you’re with family and having a great time.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3246\" data-end=\"3249\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3249\" data-end=\"3257\">All:\u003c/strong> Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3267\" data-end=\"3347\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3267\" data-end=\"3285\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> Alright. One, two, three, Skillet’z!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3322\" data-end=\"3325\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3325\" data-end=\"3335\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Good, good!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"70\" data-end=\"270\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"70\" data-end=\"89\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, Nima. So, you’re a big brunch guy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong data-start=\"136\" data-end=\"153\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> That’s my thing.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"170\" data-end=\"173\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"173\" data-end=\"192\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. What is it about Skillet’z that brings you back time and time again?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"272\" data-end=\"528\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"272\" data-end=\"289\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Skillet’z is a really, like, familial kind of place. You go there and you just feel like you’re comfortable and you’re at home. I always get a couple drinks to start off with. I can’t skip the vanilla latte, which is absolutely fantastic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"530\" data-end=\"1239\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"530\" data-end=\"549\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That’s your go-to, first thing.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"581\" data-end=\"584\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"584\" data-end=\"601\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> It’s my go-to.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"616\" data-end=\"619\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"619\" data-end=\"638\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> I had the caramel latte.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"663\" data-end=\"666\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"666\" data-end=\"683\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Yeah, the caramel latte. They’re really creamy, right? They have a nice foam on top. They always come with some, like, cookie or a wafer as well too, which is really nice.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"855\" data-end=\"858\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"858\" data-end=\"877\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That’s right. Start your day with a cookie.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"921\" data-end=\"924\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"924\" data-end=\"941\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I have to. I’m a sweets guy. So I need to start with a cookie. But I’ll get that and I’ll also get their freshly squeezed orange juice, which is the tangiest orange juice.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1113\" data-end=\"1116\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1116\" data-end=\"1133\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I had that. It was so fresh. Really good.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1175\" data-end=\"1178\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1178\" data-end=\"1197\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> You could tell it was right off the tree.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1241\" data-end=\"1512\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1241\" data-end=\"1260\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, so you got your drinks in front of you. Then what’s the order?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1332\" data-end=\"1335\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1335\" data-end=\"1352\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> My order… Well, my brother-in-law will always say, “If you don’t know, you won’t know. You got to get the Monte Cristo.” So I always go for the Monte Cristo.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1514\" data-end=\"2182\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1514\" data-end=\"1531\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> What’s that?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1544\" data-end=\"1547\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1547\" data-end=\"1564\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Now, the Monte Cristo is ham, Swiss cheese, and turkey with French toast as the buns. I know, it’s a lot. I don’t care about the calories. I don’t read them. I just eat.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1734\" data-end=\"1737\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1737\" data-end=\"1756\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Right.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1763\" data-end=\"1766\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1766\" data-end=\"1783\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Okay, that’s my thing.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1806\" data-end=\"1809\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1809\" data-end=\"1828\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Sweet and savory.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1846\" data-end=\"1849\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1849\" data-end=\"1866\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Sweet and savory. My two favorite things. And I have to get that every single time. It is delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1967\" data-end=\"1970\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1970\" data-end=\"1989\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Do they do the powdered sugar topping and the raspberry jam on the side?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2062\" data-end=\"2065\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2065\" data-end=\"2082\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Absolutely, raspberry jam. Absolutely fantastic.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2131\" data-end=\"2134\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2134\" data-end=\"2153\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And what did you have, Anna?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2184\" data-end=\"2659\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2184\" data-end=\"2201\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Well, I had a traditional breakfast. I had two over-easy eggs with bacon that was really thick. Nice mouthfeel there. And the hash browns, which I liked because they were very crispy on top. And then there’s an option that instead of toast, you can get a pancake, and I got a blueberry pancake. That was the best part. It was fluffy and, like, raised up. I don’t know how they do that.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2587\" data-end=\"2590\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2590\" data-end=\"2609\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Souffléed, almost.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2628\" data-end=\"2631\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2631\" data-end=\"2648\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Souffléed!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2661\" data-end=\"2975\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2661\" data-end=\"2678\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> What I usually like is the Nutella strawberry banana pancakes. You get the drizzle on there.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2771\" data-end=\"2774\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2774\" data-end=\"2793\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> That sounds really good. I didn’t have that.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2838\" data-end=\"2841\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2841\" data-end=\"2860\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I can tell you have a sweet tooth.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2895\" data-end=\"2898\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2898\" data-end=\"2915\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Definitely, definitely. [Laughter] I can’t live without it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2977\" data-end=\"3451\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2977\" data-end=\"2996\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> We had the biscuits and gravy with over-easy eggs. Lovely biscuits. Fluffy. The gravy was a little lacking in salt, but that was balanced by having a really nice piece of ham on the side — thick, sweet ham. The one challenge with the eggs was one egg was hard and one egg was the over-easy egg, so it was a little bit of a discombobulated egg. And I thought, “How did they do that? How did we get that on the plate?” But we ate it, you know. It was good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3453\" data-end=\"3792\">We also had a mushroom and onion omelette, and you could tell that the onions were a sweet onion, like a Maui onion. Potatoes were not the crispy hash browns, but like a softer diced potato, and you could tell it was fresh. And then they serve a nice pico de gallo on the side that you can put over the entire plate. It made it very tasty.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3794\" data-end=\"4696\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3794\" data-end=\"3811\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I want to tell you something about this restaurant. I’m a sign language interpreter, and Fremont has two wonderful schools, the California School for the Deaf and Ohlone College.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3990\" data-end=\"3993\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3993\" data-end=\"4012\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Mm-hmm.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4020\" data-end=\"4023\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4023\" data-end=\"4040\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> And because of that, there are places that are called “deaf friendly.” So I took my friend Tom, and he’s deaf. The server saw us signing as we came in. She made this gesture to Tom, which is not really the sign for “What would you like to drink?” But he said it was understandable.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4322\" data-end=\"4325\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4325\" data-end=\"4344\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Sure.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4350\" data-end=\"4353\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4353\" data-end=\"4370\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> And you don’t have to know sign language. Like, this woman didn’t know sign language, but you have to be into visual communication.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4502\" data-end=\"4505\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4505\" data-end=\"4524\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> But she was aware.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4543\" data-end=\"4546\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4546\" data-end=\"4565\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4570\" data-end=\"4573\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4573\" data-end=\"4590\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Yes, that was really nice.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4617\" data-end=\"4620\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4620\" data-end=\"4639\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Inclusive.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4650\" data-end=\"4653\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4653\" data-end=\"4670\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Very sensitive and aware.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4698\" data-end=\"5050\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4698\" data-end=\"4717\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, that leads to the question of service.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4760\" data-end=\"4763\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4763\" data-end=\"4780\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Always fantastic. I just feel like it’s a family member treating us and serving us every time. You have to get there on time. It’s always going to be busy, especially on a weekend. It’s going to be packed,\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4986\" data-end=\"4989\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4989\" data-end=\"5008\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Which you guys might have noticed, right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"72\" data-end=\"363\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"72\" data-end=\"91\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> The nice thing is, though, that they take your order beforehand, so you’re waiting outside, but someone will come and say, “Oh, is your order ready?” And so when you sit down, your food kind of comes very quickly versus having to wait, you know, to order once you’ve sat.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"365\" data-end=\"971\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"365\" data-end=\"384\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That’s sort of the insider tip. You put in your order and you wait.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"452\" data-end=\"455\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"455\" data-end=\"472\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Nice and early, and you wait.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"502\" data-end=\"505\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"505\" data-end=\"524\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> It’s a great town, actually, because there’s all the antique stores, and Charlie Chaplin filmed films there. That’s the amazing thing as well.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"667\" data-end=\"670\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"670\" data-end=\"687\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> The movie industry started there.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"721\" data-end=\"724\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"724\" data-end=\"743\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> In Niles?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"753\" data-end=\"756\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"756\" data-end=\"773\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> They have a museum.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"793\" data-end=\"796\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"796\" data-end=\"815\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> In Niles. Mm.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"829\" data-end=\"832\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"832\" data-end=\"851\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, a bit of history and a lot of sweetness.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"896\" data-end=\"899\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"899\" data-end=\"916\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> And a lot of sweetness.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"940\" data-end=\"943\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"943\" data-end=\"962\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"973\" data-end=\"1124\">Well, if you would like to try Skillet’z Cafe, it’s located on Niles Boulevard in Fremont, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $35.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1126\" data-end=\"1504\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1126\" data-end=\"1145\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Anna’s been sampling the delicate, handmade dim sum at her restaurant for more than 10 years, and she still hasn’t tasted everything on the menu. The Cantonese specialties are made fresh to order and served steaming hot in beautiful, banquet hall-sized dining rooms. A mainstay in Oakland’s Chinatown for more than two decades, it’s Peony Seafood Restaurant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1506\" data-end=\"1521\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1523\" data-end=\"1803\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1523\" data-end=\"1537\">Chris Xie:\u003c/strong> Peony Seafood Restaurant has been a staple in Oakland Chinatown for 30 years. We have a big menu — you know, dim sum, over 100 items. The “dim sum” means “to touch the heart.” When we have dim sum, usually we have tea, with lots of people, like a family or friends.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1805\" data-end=\"2226\">Our dim sum chefs, they hand-prepare the dim sum daily. And my favorite, the xiaolongbao and the cheung fun. The cheung fun, we make it here with thin, large steamed rice noodles. They fill it with some sorts like shrimp, pork and beef. Outside is smooth, and inside should be meaty and crunchy. And we have the special sauce that is called XO sauce, just to add a flavor, or you can use that sauce for the dipping sauce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2228\" data-end=\"2341\">We have king crab, lobster. They can pick out the live fish from the fish tank. They can pick whatever they like.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2343\" data-end=\"2480\">The kids love the animal-shaped dessert, especially the piggy buns and the coconut rabbit. That’s so fun. A lot of people take a picture.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2482\" data-end=\"2823\">Peony Seafood Restaurant is the biggest restaurant in Oakland. It can hold up to like 500 people. And so we can catering any kind of party.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2621\" data-end=\"2624\">How’s everything so far? The job is like customer service, and some people, they come all the time to be treated like a family member. I want our customers to have a great meal and want to come back.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2825\" data-end=\"2972\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2825\" data-end=\"2844\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now, Anna, this restaurant has a huge variety of dim sum. And are you a dim sum specialist? Is that what you consider yourself?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2974\" data-end=\"3278\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2974\" data-end=\"2991\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Well, I’m a dim sum lover. And I’ve tasted dim sum in Hong Kong, in Toronto, New York, San Francisco. And of all the places that I go, Peony is my absolute favorite.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3157\" data-end=\"3160\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3160\" data-end=\"3179\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Wow.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3184\" data-end=\"3187\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3187\" data-end=\"3204\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I think they have very creative dishes that I haven’t seen anywhere else.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3280\" data-end=\"3578\">There’s a crispy daikon baton, then it’s wrapped in a sleeve of very fine, crispy rice noodles. Then it has a little squiggle of a sauce and little tiny fish eggs on top. And when you put it in your mouth, it’s like a symphony of different textures and flavors that all come together. It’s amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3580\" data-end=\"4009\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3580\" data-end=\"3599\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> And then, did you try also the salt and pepper custard tofu?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3660\" data-end=\"3663\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3663\" data-end=\"3680\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> No, I haven’t tried that one.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3710\" data-end=\"3713\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3713\" data-end=\"3732\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Oh, my God, I could’ve eaten plates of it. It was so good. I don’t know how they get it so crispy on the outside, but so tender on the inside. And it’s served with jalapenos and peanuts, I think it is, on top, and some green onions. I literally could’ve eaten a plate of them.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4011\" data-end=\"4195\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4011\" data-end=\"4030\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Well, and it’s an extensive menu, isn’t it?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4074\" data-end=\"4077\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4077\" data-end=\"4094\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> It’s a really big menu.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4118\" data-end=\"4121\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4121\" data-end=\"4140\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4146\" data-end=\"4149\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4149\" data-end=\"4166\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Everything was family style.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"72\" data-end=\"382\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"72\" data-end=\"89\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> So I ended up getting the pan fried pork buns, which were absolutely incredible.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"170\" data-end=\"173\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"173\" data-end=\"190\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I like those.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"204\" data-end=\"207\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"207\" data-end=\"224\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Those were really crispy on one side and then just really fluffy, and you would tear them open. It would be hot in the center, and the texture was fantastic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"384\" data-end=\"688\">I got the beef rice as well, which came with egg, too, and with that, it was sort of bland by itself. I’m a huge rice guy, too, especially with beef, but I got that with a side of their soy sauce and their house-made chili sauce, too, which I could have broken into the back and stolen. It was that good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"690\" data-end=\"4050\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"690\" data-end=\"709\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You want to put that on everything?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"745\" data-end=\"748\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"748\" data-end=\"765\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I want to put that on everything, even the sweets.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"816\" data-end=\"819\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"819\" data-end=\"838\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> We had the barbecue pork puffs. It was like shatteringly tender. Pop in your mouth and it just broke, the crust. And the flavor was so good.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"979\" data-end=\"982\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"982\" data-end=\"1001\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Ah!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1005\" data-end=\"1008\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1008\" data-end=\"1025\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I got the shrimp dumplings with cilantro. The shrimp was perfect. It wasn’t too gamy. It wasn’t too tough. It was really meaty. And those were delicious, too.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1184\" data-end=\"1187\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1187\" data-end=\"1204\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Another thing — I like shrimp in a lot of things. So I got the red rice yeast roll. So, I think there’s some health property to red rice. Okay, it’s this very satiny roll on the outside of red rice, and inside is the crispy shrimp. It’s like the interplay of different textures.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1483\" data-end=\"1486\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1486\" data-end=\"1505\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> There you go.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1519\" data-end=\"1522\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1522\" data-end=\"1539\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Did anybody have soup dumplings?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1572\" data-end=\"1575\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1575\" data-end=\"1594\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> No.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1598\" data-end=\"1601\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1601\" data-end=\"1618\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> No?!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1623\" data-end=\"1626\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1626\" data-end=\"1643\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I should have.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1658\" data-end=\"1661\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1661\" data-end=\"1678\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Oh, gosh!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1688\" data-end=\"1691\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1691\" data-end=\"1710\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That’s a dish they’re known for, huh?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1748\" data-end=\"1751\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1751\" data-end=\"1768\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Yes. And it’s just… you know how you eat soup dumplings? You have to make a little hole, suck it out. It just melts in your mouth. Next time, you have to get that.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1934\" data-end=\"1937\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1937\" data-end=\"1956\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Yes. Well, I’ll be going back.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1987\" data-end=\"1990\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1990\" data-end=\"2009\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I think that Anna is going to be the guide for you guys.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2066\" data-end=\"2069\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2069\" data-end=\"2088\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Right?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2095\" data-end=\"2098\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2098\" data-end=\"2115\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> We’ll all go with you.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2138\" data-end=\"2141\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2141\" data-end=\"2160\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2169\" data-end=\"2172\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2172\" data-end=\"2189\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Okay. That sounds fun. You can come, too.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2231\" data-end=\"2234\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2234\" data-end=\"2253\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2262\" data-end=\"2265\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2265\" data-end=\"2282\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Okay.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2288\" data-end=\"2291\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2291\" data-end=\"2310\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Did you happen to try the onion pancakes? ‘Cause when you were speaking about sauces, they serve the onion pancakes with a curry sauce, which is unusual, but it was so tasty.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2485\" data-end=\"2488\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2488\" data-end=\"2505\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I think their big personality at Peony Seafood was their desserts and their cute animals.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2595\" data-end=\"2598\">[excited chatter]\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2615\" data-end=\"2618\">Those were fantastic. The piggies were gorgeous, and you’d tear them apart and they were really fluffy. And the custard and egg was delicious. It was pretty light. It wasn’t too overbearing and too over-sweet, but it was a perfect end to the meal.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2865\" data-end=\"2868\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2868\" data-end=\"2885\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> That’s nice. And if you’re into social media, the bunnies, the coconut bunnies, they’re cute and they come on a little slice of carrot. And then if you take the plate and you jiggle it, then they wiggle, and it’s perfect. I mean, how many desserts can you have? But my favorite one is the pandan mochi.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3190\" data-end=\"3193\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3193\" data-end=\"3212\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> We had that.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3225\" data-end=\"3228\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3228\" data-end=\"3245\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Yay! So, this is a green, pear-shaped mochi, and inside is warm custard. Oh, it’s just the best.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3342\" data-end=\"3345\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3345\" data-end=\"3364\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And you ordered a lot of food, but did you feel like you got value?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3432\" data-end=\"3435\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3435\" data-end=\"3452\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I think so. Yeah, we got a lot of food, and the value was perfect. I didn’t feel like I was snubbed.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3553\" data-end=\"3556\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3556\" data-end=\"3573\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Did you take anything home?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3601\" data-end=\"3604\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3604\" data-end=\"3621\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I did. I took all the rice home. One more piggy left. I had to show it to my family.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3706\" data-end=\"3709\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3709\" data-end=\"3728\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> A little bit of that chili sauce?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3762\" data-end=\"3765\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3765\" data-end=\"3782\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> A little bit of that chili sauce, and it was gone the instant I got home.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3856\" data-end=\"3859\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3859\" data-end=\"3878\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. If you would like to try Peony Seafood Restaurant, it’s located on 9th Street in Oakland’s Chinatown, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $30.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"73\" data-end=\"303\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"73\" data-end=\"92\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> When it comes to celebrating a special occasion, Jason knows just the place for an elegant yet unpretentious experience. Offering contemporary French fare for more than 40 years in San Jose, it’s \u003cem data-start=\"289\" data-end=\"302\">Le Papillon\u003c/em>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"305\" data-end=\"320\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"322\" data-end=\"513\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"322\" data-end=\"339\">Scott Cooper:\u003c/strong> \u003cem data-start=\"340\" data-end=\"353\">Le Papillon\u003c/em> was started in 1977 by our dad as sort of a continental restaurant, very popular at the time.\u003cbr data-start=\"447\" data-end=\"450\">Over time, it’s evolved into being kind of contemporary French.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"515\" data-end=\"622\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"515\" data-end=\"536\">Camron Mashayekh:\u003c/strong> Our cuisine has many influences, a lot of them from Scott’s travels and his passions.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"624\" data-end=\"854\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"624\" data-end=\"641\">Scott Cooper:\u003c/strong> Favorite dishes on the menu… chefs are all the same, though. We only like the last dish we created. [Laughs] That’s, like, the favorite dish, right? Quail egg toast with caviar. My favorite way to enjoy caviar.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"856\" data-end=\"882\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"856\" data-end=\"866\">Woman:\u003c/strong> It’s delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"884\" data-end=\"988\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"884\" data-end=\"901\">Scott Cooper:\u003c/strong> And you have to eat it in one bite, ’cause if you try and take a bite, you’ll wear it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"990\" data-end=\"1126\">We offer a six-course tasting menu. That’s what I get most excited about because I get to control every course. One last little garnish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1128\" data-end=\"1263\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1128\" data-end=\"1149\">Camron Mashayekh:\u003c/strong> People love to share. There’s a lot of plate switching or fork traveling across the table, and we encourage that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1265\" data-end=\"1405\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1265\" data-end=\"1282\">Scott Cooper:\u003c/strong> While we are contemporary French, we’re still true to our French roots. A reduction sauce kind of makes everything French.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1407\" data-end=\"1516\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1407\" data-end=\"1428\">Camron Mashayekh:\u003c/strong> One of the things that we’re best known for since day one is our soufflé Grand Marnier.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1518\" data-end=\"1831\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1518\" data-end=\"1535\">Scott Cooper:\u003c/strong> Soufflé Grand Marnier is a tough dish to execute. It was on the opening menu, day one, in 1977, and it’s become a favorite and a classic. It’s light, it’s airy, but it gives you the real flavor of Grand Marnier. And if we ever take it off the menu, we will get full-scale revolt from our guests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1833\" data-end=\"1889\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1833\" data-end=\"1854\">Camron Mashayekh:\u003c/strong> There would be a massive backlash.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1891\" data-end=\"1906\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1908\" data-end=\"2133\">I think a lot of people appreciate an elegant, quiet dining room. I think the key to great service goes unnoticed. You have this complete experience, and by the end of it, you think, “Wow, that was incredible and effortless.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2135\" data-end=\"2215\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2135\" data-end=\"2145\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Mmm, that’s so good!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2166\" data-end=\"2169\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2169\" data-end=\"2177\">Man:\u003c/strong> Everything they do is good, you know?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2217\" data-end=\"2416\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2217\" data-end=\"2234\">Scott Cooper:\u003c/strong> I’m still here and we’re still cooking the food because we love making people happy and it makes us happy, carrying on the tradition. Here. \u003cem data-start=\"2375\" data-end=\"2389\">Le Papillon.\u003c/em> The \u003cem data-start=\"2394\" data-end=\"2416\">pièce de résistance.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2418\" data-end=\"2897\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2418\" data-end=\"2437\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now, Jason, it’s interesting because for a restaurant in the Bay Area to be around 40 years, they have to be doing something right. Correct?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2578\" data-end=\"2581\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2581\" data-end=\"2600\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Very true. I mean, especially in today’s day and age where restaurants seem to open and close at the drop of a hat. They have been around for 40 years, and over those years, I’ve been going for 14 years to the restaurant, and I love it. It’s never changed. It’s always beautiful. Just, I love it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2899\" data-end=\"3112\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2899\" data-end=\"2918\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you get that feeling when you walked into the restaurant?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2980\" data-end=\"2983\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2983\" data-end=\"3000\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3012\" data-end=\"3015\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3015\" data-end=\"3034\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> This is special.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3051\" data-end=\"3054\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3054\" data-end=\"3071\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Definitely.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3083\" data-end=\"3086\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3086\" data-end=\"3103\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Oh, yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3114\" data-end=\"3370\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3114\" data-end=\"3131\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I’ve never been to any kind of fine dining, especially French restaurant, in my life before. And it actually lined up with my girlfriend’s birthday when we went, so it was a really special occasion and a really special time where we went.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3372\" data-end=\"3780\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3372\" data-end=\"3391\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Because you can choose either a tasting menu or you can choose a prix fixe menu. Correct?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3481\" data-end=\"3484\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3484\" data-end=\"3503\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Yes. Yes. I love the fact that they bring you a beautiful amuse-bouche when you sit down. Our particular evening, we had a lovely lobster bisque with beautiful lobster. Such a silky texture. And the lobster was perfect. Very tender, very of the sea. Just a lovely little bite.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3782\" data-end=\"3905\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3782\" data-end=\"3801\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you amuse your bouche?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3828\" data-end=\"3831\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3831\" data-end=\"3848\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> My bouche was amused.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3870\" data-end=\"3873\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3873\" data-end=\"3892\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Very amused.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3907\" data-end=\"4153\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3907\" data-end=\"3926\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What did you have for an amuse bouche?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3965\" data-end=\"3968\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3968\" data-end=\"3985\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I can’t remember exactly, but it was little fish eggs that… on a little creamy… I mean, the tiniest little dish. I like small bites of things, so that was perfect.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4155\" data-end=\"4650\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4155\" data-end=\"4172\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> My bouche was amused as well, actually. I had the mussel and saffron soup with a side of olive bread.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4274\" data-end=\"4277\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4277\" data-end=\"4296\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Oh!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4300\" data-end=\"4303\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4303\" data-end=\"4320\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> And being Persian, saffron is a big part of my culture, so it really took me home. I actually asked for seconds on the soup. I don’t know if that’s something you can do, but it was absolutely delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4523\" data-end=\"4526\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4526\" data-end=\"4545\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> I’m sure the chef loved that.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4575\" data-end=\"4578\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4578\" data-end=\"4595\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Yes, it was amazing.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4616\" data-end=\"4619\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4619\" data-end=\"4638\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4652\" data-end=\"4840\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4652\" data-end=\"4671\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> We typically do the four-course menu. I love it. We had the butternut squash soup. Very creamy, very silky, like a curry or a cardamom, which goes well with the squash.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4842\" data-end=\"5153\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4842\" data-end=\"4859\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I first started with the Dungeness crab soufflé with caviar and lemon. It’s my first time actually having caviar, and I actually enjoyed it. It was really good.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5020\" data-end=\"5023\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5023\" data-end=\"5042\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Caviar virgin.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5057\" data-end=\"5060\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5060\" data-end=\"5077\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5083\" data-end=\"5086\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5086\" data-end=\"5105\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> No longer.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5116\" data-end=\"5119\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5119\" data-end=\"5136\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> No longer. Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5155\" data-end=\"5550\">And I was actually really delicious. I’m big on textures, and the texture of the crab wasn’t really to my liking so much, but the broth and the soup, it kind of came with as well, the dipping and the bread of the Dungeness crab soufflé was absolutely delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5416\" data-end=\"5419\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5419\" data-end=\"5438\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, all together, it worked.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5467\" data-end=\"5470\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5470\" data-end=\"5487\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> All together, it worked well and it got me going for the rest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5552\" data-end=\"5794\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5552\" data-end=\"5569\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I had an interesting appetizer. It was raw fish, kind of chopped up, made into a patty that was kanpachi,\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5675\" data-end=\"5678\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5678\" data-end=\"5697\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> I had that as well.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5717\" data-end=\"5720\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5720\" data-end=\"5737\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Oh, the round thing?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5758\" data-end=\"5761\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5761\" data-end=\"5780\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> The kanpachi.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5796\" data-end=\"6174\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5796\" data-end=\"5813\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> And then they sprinkled it with flower petals, lemongrass, a little squiggle of tamarind, and then avocado sorbet, a scoop in the middle. Really unusual.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5967\" data-end=\"5970\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5970\" data-end=\"5989\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> It was so good. I had that as well. It was really tasty.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6046\" data-end=\"6049\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6049\" data-end=\"6068\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6074\" data-end=\"6077\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6077\" data-end=\"6094\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Gorgeously plated. I noticed that, as well.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6138\" data-end=\"6141\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6141\" data-end=\"6160\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Yes. Alright.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"73\" data-end=\"309\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"73\" data-end=\"92\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What was next after your first course or appetizer course?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"151\" data-end=\"154\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"154\" data-end=\"173\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Halibut with an herb crust. It was so tender. And it was served with cherry tomatoes and potato, like, pavé. It was really quite tasty.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"311\" data-end=\"560\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"311\" data-end=\"328\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I had beef tenderloin, which was perfectly cooked, absolutely. And it was interesting because it had a stewed plum, I think it was, on top, which oddly went together really well. Had potato pavé on the other side and was delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"562\" data-end=\"778\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"562\" data-end=\"579\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I actually also had the beef tenderloin as well. And that, I must say, was the star of the show. I’m big on my steaks. That was a steak you would cut into and it just melted in your mouth instantly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"780\" data-end=\"1357\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"780\" data-end=\"799\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, now let’s talk about those desserts.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"845\" data-end=\"848\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"848\" data-end=\"865\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Yes!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"870\" data-end=\"873\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"873\" data-end=\"892\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Who wants to go first?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"915\" data-end=\"918\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"918\" data-end=\"935\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I do, I do! Okay. So, the name on the menu made me think of a different image. It said terrine of black sesame.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1047\" data-end=\"1050\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1050\" data-end=\"1069\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Mm!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1073\" data-end=\"1076\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1076\" data-end=\"1093\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> So I imagined, you know, it’ll be a pot with black sesame. And what I was served was surprising. Yeah, it had just delicate little bricks of black sesame and a little chocolate and banana custard, I think it was. And all those flavors together worked really well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1359\" data-end=\"1741\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1359\" data-end=\"1376\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Well, I actually didn’t expect to get any dessert this time. Surprising for me, I know, but compliments from the chef, because their service was so fantastic, they actually brought us out a small birthday cheesecake platter with some honeycomb, a little candle just to commemorate my girlfriend’s birthday. That really set it straight. It was absolutely fantastic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1743\" data-end=\"1974\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1743\" data-end=\"1762\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And I hope you told her you planned that.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1804\" data-end=\"1807\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1807\" data-end=\"1824\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Uh…yeah. I missed my mark on that one.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1865\" data-end=\"1868\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1868\" data-end=\"1887\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You could have taken responsibility.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1924\" data-end=\"1927\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1927\" data-end=\"1944\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I should have. I should have.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1976\" data-end=\"2164\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1976\" data-end=\"1995\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> They never go wrong with dessert. Well, they never go wrong with any dish, really. We have never had a bad dish in 14 years of going there, and it keeps us coming back.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2166\" data-end=\"2535\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2166\" data-end=\"2183\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Might have been the most expensive restaurant I’ve ever eaten in.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2249\" data-end=\"2252\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2252\" data-end=\"2269\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I agree.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2278\" data-end=\"2281\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2281\" data-end=\"2300\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, a special occasion. Again, setting the stage here.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2355\" data-end=\"2358\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2358\" data-end=\"2375\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it was awesome.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2397\" data-end=\"2400\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2400\" data-end=\"2417\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Birthday, anniversary. That’s the kind of place.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2466\" data-end=\"2469\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2469\" data-end=\"2488\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Worth it?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2498\" data-end=\"2501\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2501\" data-end=\"2518\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Yeah. [Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2537\" data-end=\"2936\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2537\" data-end=\"2554\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I would say might not go back, just due to the price, but that beef tenderloin made it worth it 100%.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2656\" data-end=\"2659\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2659\" data-end=\"2678\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Well, it made it very special for you.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2717\" data-end=\"2720\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2720\" data-end=\"2737\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Very special.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2751\" data-end=\"2754\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2754\" data-end=\"2771\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Life is short.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2786\" data-end=\"2789\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2789\" data-end=\"2808\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Life is short. Our coffins don’t have pockets.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2855\" data-end=\"2858\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2858\" data-end=\"2877\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> There you go. There you go.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2905\" data-end=\"2908\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2908\" data-end=\"2925\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Well said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2938\" data-end=\"3104\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2938\" data-end=\"2957\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> If you would like to try \u003cem data-start=\"2983\" data-end=\"2996\">Le Papillon\u003c/em>, it’s located on Saratoga Avenue in San Jose, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $150.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3106\" data-end=\"3267\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3106\" data-end=\"3125\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And now, reporter \u003cstrong data-start=\"3144\" data-end=\"3164\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong> takes us back to Fremont’s historic Niles neighborhood for more Bay Area bites you’ve just got to try.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3269\" data-end=\"3284\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"307\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"126\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Whoo! We’re here at the Flying A, which is kind of the cornerstone of the end of Niles. Lots of culture, lots of nostalgia. Tell me a little bit about what makes Niles so special.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"309\" data-end=\"791\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"309\" data-end=\"326\">Krysten Laine\u003c/strong>: Niles was the original Hollywood. Charlie Chaplin was brought here to do his first film, \u003cem data-start=\"417\" data-end=\"428\">The Tramp\u003c/em>, and they used to film Westerns here that are featured in Niles Canyon. And a lot of these buildings are still here that were there back in the day. This gas station was built in 1938. We brought the car culture back with the Niles Flying A, and every month we have Classics & Coffee, where people bring their classic cars, kick back, relax and have a good time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"793\" data-end=\"961\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"793\" data-end=\"813\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: So, that’s so cool. So, people can come, bring their cars, get a little bit of coffee and get some treats from the farmers market down the street.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"963\" data-end=\"993\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"963\" data-end=\"980\">Krysten Laine\u003c/strong>: Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"995\" data-end=\"1010\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1012\" data-end=\"1104\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1012\" data-end=\"1025\">Ken Phung\u003c/strong>: Our business is Dough Wei Me Bakery, and we sell artisan donuts and pastries.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1106\" data-end=\"1160\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1106\" data-end=\"1126\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: How do they make them so fluffy?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1162\" data-end=\"1192\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1162\" data-end=\"1175\">Ken Phung\u003c/strong>: It’s the yeast.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1194\" data-end=\"1274\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1194\" data-end=\"1214\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Okay, so it’s a yeasted doughnut, kind of like a malasada?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1276\" data-end=\"1389\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1276\" data-end=\"1289\">Ken Phung\u003c/strong>: It’s a malasada. It has eggs, sugar. And so the yeast eats the sugar, has CO2 and make it pouf up.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1391\" data-end=\"1411\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1391\" data-end=\"1399\">Both\u003c/strong>: Thank you!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1413\" data-end=\"1532\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1413\" data-end=\"1426\">Zoe Phung\u003c/strong>: This is our ube coconut mochi, our tiramisu, our chocolate hazelnut banana, and our pistachio raspberry.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1534\" data-end=\"1585\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1534\" data-end=\"1554\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Okay, which one should I try?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1587\" data-end=\"1621\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1587\" data-end=\"1600\">Zoe Phung\u003c/strong>: Maybe the tiramisu.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1623\" data-end=\"1706\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1623\" data-end=\"1643\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Dough Wei Me! Oh, my gosh, there’s sugar everywhere. [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1708\" data-end=\"1740\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1708\" data-end=\"1715\">Man\u003c/strong>: Blueberry cream cheese.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1742\" data-end=\"1777\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1742\" data-end=\"1751\">Woman\u003c/strong>: We’ll take one of those.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1779\" data-end=\"1796\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1779\" data-end=\"1786\">Man\u003c/strong>: Alright.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1798\" data-end=\"1877\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1798\" data-end=\"1818\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Niles Pie Company. You’ve been around for a little while.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1879\" data-end=\"1991\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1879\" data-end=\"1894\">Sarah Vegas\u003c/strong>: We’ve been around for about 15 years. We’re a worker cooperative. All butter, all scratch-made.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1993\" data-end=\"2047\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1993\" data-end=\"2013\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: All butter sounds good. [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2049\" data-end=\"2260\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2049\" data-end=\"2064\">Sarah Vegas\u003c/strong>: We’ve got our brand-new bacon béchamel savory pastry. It’s got a little bit of our house-made béchamel, chives, hickory-smoked bacon, everything bagel seasoning, and our house-made pastry crust.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2262\" data-end=\"2302\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2262\" data-end=\"2282\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: And this one here?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2304\" data-end=\"2428\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2304\" data-end=\"2319\">Sarah Vegas\u003c/strong>: And there is our beef and potato pasty with ground sirloin, Yukon gold potatoes, carrots, herbs and spices.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2430\" data-end=\"2565\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2430\" data-end=\"2450\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Yes. Ooh! That spice really comes through on the top, too. We’re at MAD Creationz. What makes your creations mad?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2567\" data-end=\"2804\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2567\" data-end=\"2584\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: It’s really — It stands for “Make a Difference.” During COVID, me and my wife started a non-profit. So 5% of our proceeds goes to that nonprofit. We like to provide food for less-fortunate families during the holidays.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2806\" data-end=\"2886\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2806\" data-end=\"2826\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: So you’re not mad at all. You’re quite happy, nice people.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2888\" data-end=\"3081\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2888\" data-end=\"2905\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: Yeah, exactly. Barbecue is our number-one thing we like to make. Brisket, primarily. Low and slow. No shortcuts. I have the Space Cowboy right here, which is our smashburger.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3083\" data-end=\"3120\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3083\" data-end=\"3103\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: And in my hand?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3122\" data-end=\"3251\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3122\" data-end=\"3139\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: That is our legendary four-cheese macaroni and cheese with our smoked brisket and our homemade barbecue sauce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3253\" data-end=\"3303\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3253\" data-end=\"3273\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: So, what cheeses do you use?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3305\" data-end=\"3438\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3305\" data-end=\"3322\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: I’ll tell you two out of the four. Swiss cheese, cheddar cheese, and then there’s two others that are very secret.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3440\" data-end=\"3545\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3440\" data-end=\"3460\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: But if I’m able to taste this and guess what they are, you’ll tell me if I’m right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3547\" data-end=\"3583\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3547\" data-end=\"3564\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: Yes, ma’am. 100%.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3585\" data-end=\"3674\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3585\" data-end=\"3605\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Alright. Look at all this cheese. Mmm! Is one of them cream cheese?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3676\" data-end=\"3703\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3676\" data-end=\"3693\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: Exactly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3705\" data-end=\"3740\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3705\" data-end=\"3725\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Yes! [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3742\" data-end=\"3785\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3742\" data-end=\"3759\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: That was the secret one!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3787\" data-end=\"3953\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3787\" data-end=\"3807\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Yes! Alright. You know what? Here’s the thing — for the viewers, we’re going to leave the other one a secret. Okay? I’m not even going to guess.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3955\" data-end=\"3979\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3955\" data-end=\"3972\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: Okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3981\" data-end=\"4008\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3981\" data-end=\"4001\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4010\" data-end=\"4025\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4027\" data-end=\"4142\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4027\" data-end=\"4047\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: I don’t drink coffee. So I heard that, like, there’s an alternative here that can wake me up?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4144\" data-end=\"4261\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4144\" data-end=\"4154\">Jordan\u003c/strong>: Mm-hmm. I’ve got wheatgrass shots and ginger shots for you. It’s grown with love, so you will taste that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4263\" data-end=\"4316\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4263\" data-end=\"4283\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Okay. My first wheatgrass shot!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4318\" data-end=\"4355\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4318\" data-end=\"4328\">Jordan\u003c/strong>: Aw, you couldn’t fake it!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4357\" data-end=\"4466\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4357\" data-end=\"4377\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Ooh! Aah-ha-ha! Wheatgrass… maybe not for me. But super healthy, right? I feel alive.\u003c/p>\n\n",
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"title": "Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Skillet'z Cafe, Peony Seafood, Le Papillon | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/em>season 20, episode 2, airs Thursday, April 17, at 7:30 pm, on KQED 9. See other \u003ca href=\"http://www.kqed.org/tv/programs/index.jsp?pgmid=14084\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">television airtimes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Our culinary journey begins in the charming, historic Niles district of Fremont, where \u003cstrong>Skillet’z Cafe\u003c/strong> serves up bold breakfasts that locals can’t get enough of. Diners tuck into fluffy beignets, a decadent Monte Cristo sandwich, and stacks of Nutella-strawberry-banana pancakes — a meal best followed by a stroll through Niles’ antique shops and silent film history. In the heart of Oakland’s Chinatown, \u003cstrong>Peony Seafood\u003c/strong> offers a classic dim sum experience in one of the few Chinese banquet halls in the Bay Area. Guests can enjoy dishes like fried daikon cake wrapped in crispy rice noodles, salt-and-pepper custard tofu, and delicate steamed shrimp dumplings with cilantro, handmade fresh daily. The journey ends at \u003cstrong>Le Papillon\u003c/strong>, a San Jose fine-dining destination that has been dazzling diners for over 40 years with its elegant, French-inspired tasting menus. Highlights include the Dungeness crab soufflé with saffron and caviar, the melt-in-your-mouth grilled beef tenderloin with marrow emulsion, and the stunning black sesame terrine with toasted meringue and chocolate. The episode wraps up at the \u003cstrong>Niles Farmers Market\u003c/strong>, where Cecilia samples fresh malasadas and savory hand pies, and takes in the scene with some die-hard vintage car enthusiasts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_23448\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-23448 size-medium\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Guests-800x533.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Guests-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Guests-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Guests-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Guests-768x512.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Guests-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Guests.png 1620w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco joins guests Anna Mindess, Nima Alahari and Jason T. Douglass from KQED in San Francisco.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Get Restaurant Information:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://skilletz.cafe/\">\u003cstrong>Skillet’z Cafe\u003c/strong> (Fremont)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://peonyrestaurant.com/\">\u003cstrong>Peony Seafood\u003c/strong> (Oakland)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.lepapillon.com/\">\u003cstrong>Le Papillon \u003c/strong>(San Jose)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://nilesfarmersmarket.org/\">\u003cstrong>Niles Farmers Market\u003c/strong> (Fremont)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_20123\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-20123\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2019/04/Leslie-Headshot-Smokey-copy-800x540.jpg\" alt=\"Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine\" width=\"800\" height=\"540\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine \u003ccite>(Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the \u003ca href=\"http://ww2.kqed.org/checkplease/host-biography/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">host\u003c/a> of \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-23449\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-800x1015.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"1015\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-800x1015.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-1020x1294.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-160x203.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-768x974.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-1211x1536.png 1211w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-1615x2048.png 1615w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2002_Wines-1920x2435.png 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\">\u003cb>\u003ca href=\"http://www.textbookvineyards.com\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">Textbook 2022 “The Pey Family Reserve” Cabernet Sauvignon\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003c/b>\u003cem>Napa Valley, California $46\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>The Textbook wines are ones to seek out. Well-priced bottles overdeliver in quality, especially the Pey Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s a deeply hued, layered red that blends fruit from some of Napa Valley’s top vineyards. Dark fruit flavors and a supple texture make this a wine to enjoy now with hearty fare or cellar for a few years to gain more complexity. With an under-$50 price tag, it’s a fantastic deal when it comes to high-end Napa Valley Cabernet.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\">Founded by Jonathan Pey along with his late wife, Susan, their goal was to craft wines of elegance and balance that showcase “textbook” character. Winemaker Abigail Estrada carries out that vision with this classy red.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\">\u003ca href=\"http://www.Paulakornell.com\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003cb>Paula Kornell Brut Rosé, Méthode Champenoise Sparkling Wine\u003c/b>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003cem>California $25\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>When talking about the history of Napa Valley — and certainly the history of sparkling wine in California — the name Kornell looms large. Famed winemaker and vintner Hanns Kornell was born into a third-generation German winemaking family. He immigrated to the United States and through hard work and a partnership with his talented wife, Marilouise, was able to purchase the iconic Larkmead Winery in 1958. There he made the highest quality sparkling wine using the traditional French method. Today, his daughter, Paula Kornell, has her own namesake bubbly, and it lives up to the family’s commitment of quality and value.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\">This beautifully pale pink sparkler is a wine to love. The attractive bottle catches your eye, but it’s the elegant wine inside that puts a smile on your face. A blend of mostly Pinot Noir with Chardonnay, red-berry and floral-scented aromas are complemented by delicate, crisp flavors. Enjoy a glass to begin your night, then pair it with savory dishes to a lightly sweet dessert. It’s a stylish sparkler worth twice the price.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Episode Transcript\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"102\" data-end=\"160\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"102\" data-end=\"121\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Good old country cooking in Fremont…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"162\" data-end=\"243\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"162\" data-end=\"179\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I don’t care about the calories. I don’t read them. I just eat.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"245\" data-end=\"298\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"245\" data-end=\"264\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> …dim sum delights in Oakland…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"300\" data-end=\"351\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"300\" data-end=\"317\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> A symphony of different textures.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"420\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"372\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> …and contemporary French cuisine in San Jose.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"422\" data-end=\"484\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"422\" data-end=\"441\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> It’s never changed. It’s always beautiful.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"486\" data-end=\"546\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"486\" data-end=\"505\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Just ahead on \u003cem data-start=\"520\" data-end=\"546\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"548\" data-end=\"621\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"548\" data-end=\"569\">Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> There’s sugar everywhere! Mmm! These are beautiful.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"623\" data-end=\"638\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"640\" data-end=\"1123\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"640\" data-end=\"659\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Hi, I’m Leslie Sbrocco. Welcome to \u003cem data-start=\"695\" data-end=\"721\">Check, Please! Bay Area,\u003c/em> the show where Bay Area residents review and talk about their favorite restaurants. Now, we have three guests, and each one recommends one of their favorite spots, and the other two go check them out to see what they think. Joining me at the \u003cem data-start=\"964\" data-end=\"980\">Check, Please!\u003c/em> table today are ASL interpreter and food writer \u003cstrong data-start=\"1029\" data-end=\"1045\">Anna Mindess\u003c/strong>, tech sales expert \u003cstrong data-start=\"1065\" data-end=\"1081\">Nima Alahari\u003c/strong>, and patient advocate \u003cstrong data-start=\"1104\" data-end=\"1122\">Jason Douglass\u003c/strong>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1125\" data-end=\"1313\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1125\" data-end=\"1144\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Welcome, everyone.\u003cbr data-start=\"1163\" data-end=\"1166\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1166\" data-end=\"1183\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Thank you.\u003cbr data-start=\"1194\" data-end=\"1197\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1197\" data-end=\"1216\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Thank you.\u003cbr data-start=\"1227\" data-end=\"1230\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1230\" data-end=\"1249\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Nice to be here?\u003cbr data-start=\"1266\" data-end=\"1269\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1269\" data-end=\"1288\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Very excited to be here.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1315\" data-end=\"1615\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1315\" data-end=\"1334\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Nima gets things started with his bustling breakfast spot. Offering American diner classics paired with over-the-top, Instagrammable lattes and shakes, it’s his favorite way to jump-start the day. Nestled in the heart of Fremont’s historic Niles neighborhood, it’s Skillet’z Cafe.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1617\" data-end=\"1845\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1617\" data-end=\"1635\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> Skillet’z is an American diner, old country cooking, but with a Mexican flair. The chefs are from Zacatecas, Mexico, and so they’ve brought a lot of the food that they grew up with, that their grandmas cooked.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1847\" data-end=\"1888\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1847\" data-end=\"1855\">Man:\u003c/strong> My go-to is usually the burrito.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1890\" data-end=\"2014\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1890\" data-end=\"1908\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> Our food comes out super hot, super crispy, super flavorful. Breakfast made with lots of love and huevos.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2016\" data-end=\"2093\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2016\" data-end=\"2034\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> How’s the food and everything?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2065\" data-end=\"2068\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2068\" data-end=\"2076\">Man:\u003c/strong> Good. Thank you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2095\" data-end=\"2282\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2095\" data-end=\"2113\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> I was a regular customer for over 10 years. I would eat at Skillet’z at least once a week. There was an opportunity to become a partner, so I jumped at the opportunity.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2284\" data-end=\"2357\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2284\" data-end=\"2302\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> This is the sausage omelette.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2332\" data-end=\"2335\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2335\" data-end=\"2345\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Yeah, here.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2359\" data-end=\"2457\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2359\" data-end=\"2377\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> A lot of the dishes are named after some of our team members and staff members.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2459\" data-end=\"2519\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2459\" data-end=\"2469\">Woman:\u003c/strong> I’m [indistinct], and you’re eating at Skillet’z.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2521\" data-end=\"2686\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2521\" data-end=\"2539\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> They just named a dish after me. It’s a scramble that comes with all meats and all veggies and a side of bacon. It’s called the Jonathan Scramble.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2688\" data-end=\"2934\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2688\" data-end=\"2706\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> When I first came to Skillet’z, I was told that the salsa is so good you could drink it. And that is literally what I do every time. I will pour salsa all over my food. Highly recommend pairing it with all of our savory dishes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2936\" data-end=\"2951\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2953\" data-end=\"3043\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2953\" data-end=\"2971\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> We really treat all of our customers like family.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3021\" data-end=\"3024\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3024\" data-end=\"3034\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Alright!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3045\" data-end=\"3265\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3045\" data-end=\"3063\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> They say that breakfast is the most important part of your day, and it’s just food that makes you feel good, food that makes you feel like you’re with family and having a great time.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3246\" data-end=\"3249\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3249\" data-end=\"3257\">All:\u003c/strong> Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3267\" data-end=\"3347\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3267\" data-end=\"3285\">Jonathan Tsai:\u003c/strong> Alright. One, two, three, Skillet’z!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3322\" data-end=\"3325\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3325\" data-end=\"3335\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Good, good!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"70\" data-end=\"270\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"70\" data-end=\"89\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, Nima. So, you’re a big brunch guy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong data-start=\"136\" data-end=\"153\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> That’s my thing.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"170\" data-end=\"173\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"173\" data-end=\"192\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. What is it about Skillet’z that brings you back time and time again?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"272\" data-end=\"528\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"272\" data-end=\"289\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Skillet’z is a really, like, familial kind of place. You go there and you just feel like you’re comfortable and you’re at home. I always get a couple drinks to start off with. I can’t skip the vanilla latte, which is absolutely fantastic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"530\" data-end=\"1239\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"530\" data-end=\"549\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That’s your go-to, first thing.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"581\" data-end=\"584\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"584\" data-end=\"601\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> It’s my go-to.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"616\" data-end=\"619\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"619\" data-end=\"638\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> I had the caramel latte.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"663\" data-end=\"666\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"666\" data-end=\"683\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Yeah, the caramel latte. They’re really creamy, right? They have a nice foam on top. They always come with some, like, cookie or a wafer as well too, which is really nice.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"855\" data-end=\"858\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"858\" data-end=\"877\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That’s right. Start your day with a cookie.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"921\" data-end=\"924\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"924\" data-end=\"941\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I have to. I’m a sweets guy. So I need to start with a cookie. But I’ll get that and I’ll also get their freshly squeezed orange juice, which is the tangiest orange juice.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1113\" data-end=\"1116\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1116\" data-end=\"1133\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I had that. It was so fresh. Really good.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1175\" data-end=\"1178\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1178\" data-end=\"1197\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> You could tell it was right off the tree.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1241\" data-end=\"1512\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1241\" data-end=\"1260\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, so you got your drinks in front of you. Then what’s the order?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1332\" data-end=\"1335\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1335\" data-end=\"1352\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> My order… Well, my brother-in-law will always say, “If you don’t know, you won’t know. You got to get the Monte Cristo.” So I always go for the Monte Cristo.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1514\" data-end=\"2182\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1514\" data-end=\"1531\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> What’s that?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1544\" data-end=\"1547\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1547\" data-end=\"1564\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Now, the Monte Cristo is ham, Swiss cheese, and turkey with French toast as the buns. I know, it’s a lot. I don’t care about the calories. I don’t read them. I just eat.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1734\" data-end=\"1737\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1737\" data-end=\"1756\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Right.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1763\" data-end=\"1766\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1766\" data-end=\"1783\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Okay, that’s my thing.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1806\" data-end=\"1809\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1809\" data-end=\"1828\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Sweet and savory.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1846\" data-end=\"1849\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1849\" data-end=\"1866\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Sweet and savory. My two favorite things. And I have to get that every single time. It is delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1967\" data-end=\"1970\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1970\" data-end=\"1989\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Do they do the powdered sugar topping and the raspberry jam on the side?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2062\" data-end=\"2065\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2065\" data-end=\"2082\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Absolutely, raspberry jam. Absolutely fantastic.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2131\" data-end=\"2134\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2134\" data-end=\"2153\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And what did you have, Anna?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2184\" data-end=\"2659\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2184\" data-end=\"2201\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Well, I had a traditional breakfast. I had two over-easy eggs with bacon that was really thick. Nice mouthfeel there. And the hash browns, which I liked because they were very crispy on top. And then there’s an option that instead of toast, you can get a pancake, and I got a blueberry pancake. That was the best part. It was fluffy and, like, raised up. I don’t know how they do that.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2587\" data-end=\"2590\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2590\" data-end=\"2609\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Souffléed, almost.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2628\" data-end=\"2631\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2631\" data-end=\"2648\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Souffléed!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2661\" data-end=\"2975\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2661\" data-end=\"2678\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> What I usually like is the Nutella strawberry banana pancakes. You get the drizzle on there.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2771\" data-end=\"2774\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2774\" data-end=\"2793\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> That sounds really good. I didn’t have that.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2838\" data-end=\"2841\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2841\" data-end=\"2860\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I can tell you have a sweet tooth.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2895\" data-end=\"2898\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2898\" data-end=\"2915\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Definitely, definitely. [Laughter] I can’t live without it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2977\" data-end=\"3451\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2977\" data-end=\"2996\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> We had the biscuits and gravy with over-easy eggs. Lovely biscuits. Fluffy. The gravy was a little lacking in salt, but that was balanced by having a really nice piece of ham on the side — thick, sweet ham. The one challenge with the eggs was one egg was hard and one egg was the over-easy egg, so it was a little bit of a discombobulated egg. And I thought, “How did they do that? How did we get that on the plate?” But we ate it, you know. It was good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3453\" data-end=\"3792\">We also had a mushroom and onion omelette, and you could tell that the onions were a sweet onion, like a Maui onion. Potatoes were not the crispy hash browns, but like a softer diced potato, and you could tell it was fresh. And then they serve a nice pico de gallo on the side that you can put over the entire plate. It made it very tasty.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3794\" data-end=\"4696\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3794\" data-end=\"3811\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I want to tell you something about this restaurant. I’m a sign language interpreter, and Fremont has two wonderful schools, the California School for the Deaf and Ohlone College.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3990\" data-end=\"3993\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3993\" data-end=\"4012\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Mm-hmm.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4020\" data-end=\"4023\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4023\" data-end=\"4040\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> And because of that, there are places that are called “deaf friendly.” So I took my friend Tom, and he’s deaf. The server saw us signing as we came in. She made this gesture to Tom, which is not really the sign for “What would you like to drink?” But he said it was understandable.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4322\" data-end=\"4325\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4325\" data-end=\"4344\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Sure.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4350\" data-end=\"4353\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4353\" data-end=\"4370\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> And you don’t have to know sign language. Like, this woman didn’t know sign language, but you have to be into visual communication.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4502\" data-end=\"4505\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4505\" data-end=\"4524\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> But she was aware.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4543\" data-end=\"4546\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4546\" data-end=\"4565\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4570\" data-end=\"4573\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4573\" data-end=\"4590\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Yes, that was really nice.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4617\" data-end=\"4620\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4620\" data-end=\"4639\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Inclusive.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4650\" data-end=\"4653\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4653\" data-end=\"4670\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Very sensitive and aware.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4698\" data-end=\"5050\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4698\" data-end=\"4717\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, that leads to the question of service.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4760\" data-end=\"4763\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4763\" data-end=\"4780\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Always fantastic. I just feel like it’s a family member treating us and serving us every time. You have to get there on time. It’s always going to be busy, especially on a weekend. It’s going to be packed,\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4986\" data-end=\"4989\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4989\" data-end=\"5008\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Which you guys might have noticed, right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"72\" data-end=\"363\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"72\" data-end=\"91\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> The nice thing is, though, that they take your order beforehand, so you’re waiting outside, but someone will come and say, “Oh, is your order ready?” And so when you sit down, your food kind of comes very quickly versus having to wait, you know, to order once you’ve sat.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"365\" data-end=\"971\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"365\" data-end=\"384\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That’s sort of the insider tip. You put in your order and you wait.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"452\" data-end=\"455\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"455\" data-end=\"472\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Nice and early, and you wait.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"502\" data-end=\"505\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"505\" data-end=\"524\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> It’s a great town, actually, because there’s all the antique stores, and Charlie Chaplin filmed films there. That’s the amazing thing as well.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"667\" data-end=\"670\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"670\" data-end=\"687\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> The movie industry started there.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"721\" data-end=\"724\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"724\" data-end=\"743\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> In Niles?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"753\" data-end=\"756\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"756\" data-end=\"773\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> They have a museum.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"793\" data-end=\"796\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"796\" data-end=\"815\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> In Niles. Mm.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"829\" data-end=\"832\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"832\" data-end=\"851\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, a bit of history and a lot of sweetness.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"896\" data-end=\"899\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"899\" data-end=\"916\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> And a lot of sweetness.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"940\" data-end=\"943\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"943\" data-end=\"962\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"973\" data-end=\"1124\">Well, if you would like to try Skillet’z Cafe, it’s located on Niles Boulevard in Fremont, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $35.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1126\" data-end=\"1504\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1126\" data-end=\"1145\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Anna’s been sampling the delicate, handmade dim sum at her restaurant for more than 10 years, and she still hasn’t tasted everything on the menu. The Cantonese specialties are made fresh to order and served steaming hot in beautiful, banquet hall-sized dining rooms. A mainstay in Oakland’s Chinatown for more than two decades, it’s Peony Seafood Restaurant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1506\" data-end=\"1521\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1523\" data-end=\"1803\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1523\" data-end=\"1537\">Chris Xie:\u003c/strong> Peony Seafood Restaurant has been a staple in Oakland Chinatown for 30 years. We have a big menu — you know, dim sum, over 100 items. The “dim sum” means “to touch the heart.” When we have dim sum, usually we have tea, with lots of people, like a family or friends.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1805\" data-end=\"2226\">Our dim sum chefs, they hand-prepare the dim sum daily. And my favorite, the xiaolongbao and the cheung fun. The cheung fun, we make it here with thin, large steamed rice noodles. They fill it with some sorts like shrimp, pork and beef. Outside is smooth, and inside should be meaty and crunchy. And we have the special sauce that is called XO sauce, just to add a flavor, or you can use that sauce for the dipping sauce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2228\" data-end=\"2341\">We have king crab, lobster. They can pick out the live fish from the fish tank. They can pick whatever they like.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2343\" data-end=\"2480\">The kids love the animal-shaped dessert, especially the piggy buns and the coconut rabbit. That’s so fun. A lot of people take a picture.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2482\" data-end=\"2823\">Peony Seafood Restaurant is the biggest restaurant in Oakland. It can hold up to like 500 people. And so we can catering any kind of party.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2621\" data-end=\"2624\">How’s everything so far? The job is like customer service, and some people, they come all the time to be treated like a family member. I want our customers to have a great meal and want to come back.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2825\" data-end=\"2972\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2825\" data-end=\"2844\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now, Anna, this restaurant has a huge variety of dim sum. And are you a dim sum specialist? Is that what you consider yourself?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2974\" data-end=\"3278\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2974\" data-end=\"2991\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Well, I’m a dim sum lover. And I’ve tasted dim sum in Hong Kong, in Toronto, New York, San Francisco. And of all the places that I go, Peony is my absolute favorite.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3157\" data-end=\"3160\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3160\" data-end=\"3179\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Wow.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3184\" data-end=\"3187\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3187\" data-end=\"3204\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I think they have very creative dishes that I haven’t seen anywhere else.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3280\" data-end=\"3578\">There’s a crispy daikon baton, then it’s wrapped in a sleeve of very fine, crispy rice noodles. Then it has a little squiggle of a sauce and little tiny fish eggs on top. And when you put it in your mouth, it’s like a symphony of different textures and flavors that all come together. It’s amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3580\" data-end=\"4009\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3580\" data-end=\"3599\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> And then, did you try also the salt and pepper custard tofu?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3660\" data-end=\"3663\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3663\" data-end=\"3680\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> No, I haven’t tried that one.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3710\" data-end=\"3713\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3713\" data-end=\"3732\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Oh, my God, I could’ve eaten plates of it. It was so good. I don’t know how they get it so crispy on the outside, but so tender on the inside. And it’s served with jalapenos and peanuts, I think it is, on top, and some green onions. I literally could’ve eaten a plate of them.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4011\" data-end=\"4195\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4011\" data-end=\"4030\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Well, and it’s an extensive menu, isn’t it?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4074\" data-end=\"4077\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4077\" data-end=\"4094\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> It’s a really big menu.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4118\" data-end=\"4121\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4121\" data-end=\"4140\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4146\" data-end=\"4149\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4149\" data-end=\"4166\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Everything was family style.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"72\" data-end=\"382\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"72\" data-end=\"89\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> So I ended up getting the pan fried pork buns, which were absolutely incredible.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"170\" data-end=\"173\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"173\" data-end=\"190\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I like those.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"204\" data-end=\"207\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"207\" data-end=\"224\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Those were really crispy on one side and then just really fluffy, and you would tear them open. It would be hot in the center, and the texture was fantastic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"384\" data-end=\"688\">I got the beef rice as well, which came with egg, too, and with that, it was sort of bland by itself. I’m a huge rice guy, too, especially with beef, but I got that with a side of their soy sauce and their house-made chili sauce, too, which I could have broken into the back and stolen. It was that good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"690\" data-end=\"4050\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"690\" data-end=\"709\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You want to put that on everything?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"745\" data-end=\"748\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"748\" data-end=\"765\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I want to put that on everything, even the sweets.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"816\" data-end=\"819\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"819\" data-end=\"838\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> We had the barbecue pork puffs. It was like shatteringly tender. Pop in your mouth and it just broke, the crust. And the flavor was so good.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"979\" data-end=\"982\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"982\" data-end=\"1001\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Ah!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1005\" data-end=\"1008\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1008\" data-end=\"1025\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I got the shrimp dumplings with cilantro. The shrimp was perfect. It wasn’t too gamy. It wasn’t too tough. It was really meaty. And those were delicious, too.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1184\" data-end=\"1187\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1187\" data-end=\"1204\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Another thing — I like shrimp in a lot of things. So I got the red rice yeast roll. So, I think there’s some health property to red rice. Okay, it’s this very satiny roll on the outside of red rice, and inside is the crispy shrimp. It’s like the interplay of different textures.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1483\" data-end=\"1486\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1486\" data-end=\"1505\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> There you go.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1519\" data-end=\"1522\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1522\" data-end=\"1539\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Did anybody have soup dumplings?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1572\" data-end=\"1575\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1575\" data-end=\"1594\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> No.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1598\" data-end=\"1601\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1601\" data-end=\"1618\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> No?!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1623\" data-end=\"1626\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1626\" data-end=\"1643\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I should have.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1658\" data-end=\"1661\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1661\" data-end=\"1678\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Oh, gosh!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1688\" data-end=\"1691\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1691\" data-end=\"1710\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That’s a dish they’re known for, huh?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1748\" data-end=\"1751\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1751\" data-end=\"1768\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Yes. And it’s just… you know how you eat soup dumplings? You have to make a little hole, suck it out. It just melts in your mouth. Next time, you have to get that.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1934\" data-end=\"1937\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1937\" data-end=\"1956\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Yes. Well, I’ll be going back.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1987\" data-end=\"1990\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1990\" data-end=\"2009\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I think that Anna is going to be the guide for you guys.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2066\" data-end=\"2069\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2069\" data-end=\"2088\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Right?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2095\" data-end=\"2098\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2098\" data-end=\"2115\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> We’ll all go with you.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2138\" data-end=\"2141\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2141\" data-end=\"2160\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2169\" data-end=\"2172\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2172\" data-end=\"2189\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Okay. That sounds fun. You can come, too.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2231\" data-end=\"2234\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2234\" data-end=\"2253\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2262\" data-end=\"2265\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2265\" data-end=\"2282\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Okay.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2288\" data-end=\"2291\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2291\" data-end=\"2310\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Did you happen to try the onion pancakes? ‘Cause when you were speaking about sauces, they serve the onion pancakes with a curry sauce, which is unusual, but it was so tasty.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2485\" data-end=\"2488\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2488\" data-end=\"2505\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I think their big personality at Peony Seafood was their desserts and their cute animals.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2595\" data-end=\"2598\">[excited chatter]\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2615\" data-end=\"2618\">Those were fantastic. The piggies were gorgeous, and you’d tear them apart and they were really fluffy. And the custard and egg was delicious. It was pretty light. It wasn’t too overbearing and too over-sweet, but it was a perfect end to the meal.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2865\" data-end=\"2868\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2868\" data-end=\"2885\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> That’s nice. And if you’re into social media, the bunnies, the coconut bunnies, they’re cute and they come on a little slice of carrot. And then if you take the plate and you jiggle it, then they wiggle, and it’s perfect. I mean, how many desserts can you have? But my favorite one is the pandan mochi.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3190\" data-end=\"3193\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3193\" data-end=\"3212\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> We had that.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3225\" data-end=\"3228\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3228\" data-end=\"3245\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Yay! So, this is a green, pear-shaped mochi, and inside is warm custard. Oh, it’s just the best.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3342\" data-end=\"3345\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3345\" data-end=\"3364\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And you ordered a lot of food, but did you feel like you got value?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3432\" data-end=\"3435\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3435\" data-end=\"3452\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I think so. Yeah, we got a lot of food, and the value was perfect. I didn’t feel like I was snubbed.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3553\" data-end=\"3556\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3556\" data-end=\"3573\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Did you take anything home?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3601\" data-end=\"3604\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3604\" data-end=\"3621\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I did. I took all the rice home. One more piggy left. I had to show it to my family.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3706\" data-end=\"3709\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3709\" data-end=\"3728\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> A little bit of that chili sauce?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3762\" data-end=\"3765\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3765\" data-end=\"3782\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> A little bit of that chili sauce, and it was gone the instant I got home.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3856\" data-end=\"3859\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3859\" data-end=\"3878\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. If you would like to try Peony Seafood Restaurant, it’s located on 9th Street in Oakland’s Chinatown, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $30.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"73\" data-end=\"303\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"73\" data-end=\"92\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> When it comes to celebrating a special occasion, Jason knows just the place for an elegant yet unpretentious experience. Offering contemporary French fare for more than 40 years in San Jose, it’s \u003cem data-start=\"289\" data-end=\"302\">Le Papillon\u003c/em>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"305\" data-end=\"320\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"322\" data-end=\"513\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"322\" data-end=\"339\">Scott Cooper:\u003c/strong> \u003cem data-start=\"340\" data-end=\"353\">Le Papillon\u003c/em> was started in 1977 by our dad as sort of a continental restaurant, very popular at the time.\u003cbr data-start=\"447\" data-end=\"450\">Over time, it’s evolved into being kind of contemporary French.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"515\" data-end=\"622\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"515\" data-end=\"536\">Camron Mashayekh:\u003c/strong> Our cuisine has many influences, a lot of them from Scott’s travels and his passions.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"624\" data-end=\"854\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"624\" data-end=\"641\">Scott Cooper:\u003c/strong> Favorite dishes on the menu… chefs are all the same, though. We only like the last dish we created. [Laughs] That’s, like, the favorite dish, right? Quail egg toast with caviar. My favorite way to enjoy caviar.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"856\" data-end=\"882\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"856\" data-end=\"866\">Woman:\u003c/strong> It’s delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"884\" data-end=\"988\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"884\" data-end=\"901\">Scott Cooper:\u003c/strong> And you have to eat it in one bite, ’cause if you try and take a bite, you’ll wear it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"990\" data-end=\"1126\">We offer a six-course tasting menu. That’s what I get most excited about because I get to control every course. One last little garnish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1128\" data-end=\"1263\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1128\" data-end=\"1149\">Camron Mashayekh:\u003c/strong> People love to share. There’s a lot of plate switching or fork traveling across the table, and we encourage that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1265\" data-end=\"1405\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1265\" data-end=\"1282\">Scott Cooper:\u003c/strong> While we are contemporary French, we’re still true to our French roots. A reduction sauce kind of makes everything French.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1407\" data-end=\"1516\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1407\" data-end=\"1428\">Camron Mashayekh:\u003c/strong> One of the things that we’re best known for since day one is our soufflé Grand Marnier.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1518\" data-end=\"1831\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1518\" data-end=\"1535\">Scott Cooper:\u003c/strong> Soufflé Grand Marnier is a tough dish to execute. It was on the opening menu, day one, in 1977, and it’s become a favorite and a classic. It’s light, it’s airy, but it gives you the real flavor of Grand Marnier. And if we ever take it off the menu, we will get full-scale revolt from our guests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1833\" data-end=\"1889\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1833\" data-end=\"1854\">Camron Mashayekh:\u003c/strong> There would be a massive backlash.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1891\" data-end=\"1906\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1908\" data-end=\"2133\">I think a lot of people appreciate an elegant, quiet dining room. I think the key to great service goes unnoticed. You have this complete experience, and by the end of it, you think, “Wow, that was incredible and effortless.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2135\" data-end=\"2215\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2135\" data-end=\"2145\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Mmm, that’s so good!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2166\" data-end=\"2169\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2169\" data-end=\"2177\">Man:\u003c/strong> Everything they do is good, you know?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2217\" data-end=\"2416\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2217\" data-end=\"2234\">Scott Cooper:\u003c/strong> I’m still here and we’re still cooking the food because we love making people happy and it makes us happy, carrying on the tradition. Here. \u003cem data-start=\"2375\" data-end=\"2389\">Le Papillon.\u003c/em> The \u003cem data-start=\"2394\" data-end=\"2416\">pièce de résistance.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2418\" data-end=\"2897\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2418\" data-end=\"2437\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now, Jason, it’s interesting because for a restaurant in the Bay Area to be around 40 years, they have to be doing something right. Correct?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2578\" data-end=\"2581\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2581\" data-end=\"2600\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Very true. I mean, especially in today’s day and age where restaurants seem to open and close at the drop of a hat. They have been around for 40 years, and over those years, I’ve been going for 14 years to the restaurant, and I love it. It’s never changed. It’s always beautiful. Just, I love it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2899\" data-end=\"3112\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2899\" data-end=\"2918\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you get that feeling when you walked into the restaurant?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2980\" data-end=\"2983\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2983\" data-end=\"3000\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3012\" data-end=\"3015\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3015\" data-end=\"3034\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> This is special.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3051\" data-end=\"3054\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3054\" data-end=\"3071\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Definitely.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3083\" data-end=\"3086\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3086\" data-end=\"3103\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Oh, yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3114\" data-end=\"3370\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3114\" data-end=\"3131\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I’ve never been to any kind of fine dining, especially French restaurant, in my life before. And it actually lined up with my girlfriend’s birthday when we went, so it was a really special occasion and a really special time where we went.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3372\" data-end=\"3780\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3372\" data-end=\"3391\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Because you can choose either a tasting menu or you can choose a prix fixe menu. Correct?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3481\" data-end=\"3484\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3484\" data-end=\"3503\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Yes. Yes. I love the fact that they bring you a beautiful amuse-bouche when you sit down. Our particular evening, we had a lovely lobster bisque with beautiful lobster. Such a silky texture. And the lobster was perfect. Very tender, very of the sea. Just a lovely little bite.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3782\" data-end=\"3905\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3782\" data-end=\"3801\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you amuse your bouche?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3828\" data-end=\"3831\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3831\" data-end=\"3848\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> My bouche was amused.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3870\" data-end=\"3873\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3873\" data-end=\"3892\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Very amused.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3907\" data-end=\"4153\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3907\" data-end=\"3926\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What did you have for an amuse bouche?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3965\" data-end=\"3968\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3968\" data-end=\"3985\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I can’t remember exactly, but it was little fish eggs that… on a little creamy… I mean, the tiniest little dish. I like small bites of things, so that was perfect.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4155\" data-end=\"4650\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4155\" data-end=\"4172\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> My bouche was amused as well, actually. I had the mussel and saffron soup with a side of olive bread.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4274\" data-end=\"4277\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4277\" data-end=\"4296\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Oh!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4300\" data-end=\"4303\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4303\" data-end=\"4320\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> And being Persian, saffron is a big part of my culture, so it really took me home. I actually asked for seconds on the soup. I don’t know if that’s something you can do, but it was absolutely delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4523\" data-end=\"4526\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4526\" data-end=\"4545\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> I’m sure the chef loved that.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4575\" data-end=\"4578\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4578\" data-end=\"4595\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Yes, it was amazing.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4616\" data-end=\"4619\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4619\" data-end=\"4638\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4652\" data-end=\"4840\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4652\" data-end=\"4671\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> We typically do the four-course menu. I love it. We had the butternut squash soup. Very creamy, very silky, like a curry or a cardamom, which goes well with the squash.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4842\" data-end=\"5153\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4842\" data-end=\"4859\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I first started with the Dungeness crab soufflé with caviar and lemon. It’s my first time actually having caviar, and I actually enjoyed it. It was really good.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5020\" data-end=\"5023\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5023\" data-end=\"5042\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Caviar virgin.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5057\" data-end=\"5060\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5060\" data-end=\"5077\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5083\" data-end=\"5086\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5086\" data-end=\"5105\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> No longer.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5116\" data-end=\"5119\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5119\" data-end=\"5136\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> No longer. Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5155\" data-end=\"5550\">And I was actually really delicious. I’m big on textures, and the texture of the crab wasn’t really to my liking so much, but the broth and the soup, it kind of came with as well, the dipping and the bread of the Dungeness crab soufflé was absolutely delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5416\" data-end=\"5419\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5419\" data-end=\"5438\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, all together, it worked.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5467\" data-end=\"5470\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5470\" data-end=\"5487\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> All together, it worked well and it got me going for the rest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5552\" data-end=\"5794\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5552\" data-end=\"5569\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I had an interesting appetizer. It was raw fish, kind of chopped up, made into a patty that was kanpachi,\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5675\" data-end=\"5678\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5678\" data-end=\"5697\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> I had that as well.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5717\" data-end=\"5720\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5720\" data-end=\"5737\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Oh, the round thing?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5758\" data-end=\"5761\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5761\" data-end=\"5780\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> The kanpachi.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5796\" data-end=\"6174\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5796\" data-end=\"5813\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> And then they sprinkled it with flower petals, lemongrass, a little squiggle of tamarind, and then avocado sorbet, a scoop in the middle. Really unusual.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5967\" data-end=\"5970\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5970\" data-end=\"5989\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> It was so good. I had that as well. It was really tasty.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6046\" data-end=\"6049\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6049\" data-end=\"6068\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6074\" data-end=\"6077\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6077\" data-end=\"6094\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Gorgeously plated. I noticed that, as well.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6138\" data-end=\"6141\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6141\" data-end=\"6160\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Yes. Alright.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"73\" data-end=\"309\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"73\" data-end=\"92\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What was next after your first course or appetizer course?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"151\" data-end=\"154\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"154\" data-end=\"173\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Halibut with an herb crust. It was so tender. And it was served with cherry tomatoes and potato, like, pavé. It was really quite tasty.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"311\" data-end=\"560\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"311\" data-end=\"328\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I had beef tenderloin, which was perfectly cooked, absolutely. And it was interesting because it had a stewed plum, I think it was, on top, which oddly went together really well. Had potato pavé on the other side and was delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"562\" data-end=\"778\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"562\" data-end=\"579\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I actually also had the beef tenderloin as well. And that, I must say, was the star of the show. I’m big on my steaks. That was a steak you would cut into and it just melted in your mouth instantly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"780\" data-end=\"1357\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"780\" data-end=\"799\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, now let’s talk about those desserts.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"845\" data-end=\"848\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"848\" data-end=\"865\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Yes!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"870\" data-end=\"873\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"873\" data-end=\"892\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Who wants to go first?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"915\" data-end=\"918\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"918\" data-end=\"935\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> I do, I do! Okay. So, the name on the menu made me think of a different image. It said terrine of black sesame.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1047\" data-end=\"1050\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1050\" data-end=\"1069\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Mm!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1073\" data-end=\"1076\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1076\" data-end=\"1093\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> So I imagined, you know, it’ll be a pot with black sesame. And what I was served was surprising. Yeah, it had just delicate little bricks of black sesame and a little chocolate and banana custard, I think it was. And all those flavors together worked really well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1359\" data-end=\"1741\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1359\" data-end=\"1376\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Well, I actually didn’t expect to get any dessert this time. Surprising for me, I know, but compliments from the chef, because their service was so fantastic, they actually brought us out a small birthday cheesecake platter with some honeycomb, a little candle just to commemorate my girlfriend’s birthday. That really set it straight. It was absolutely fantastic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1743\" data-end=\"1974\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1743\" data-end=\"1762\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And I hope you told her you planned that.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1804\" data-end=\"1807\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1807\" data-end=\"1824\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Uh…yeah. I missed my mark on that one.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1865\" data-end=\"1868\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1868\" data-end=\"1887\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You could have taken responsibility.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1924\" data-end=\"1927\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1927\" data-end=\"1944\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I should have. I should have.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1976\" data-end=\"2164\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1976\" data-end=\"1995\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> They never go wrong with dessert. Well, they never go wrong with any dish, really. We have never had a bad dish in 14 years of going there, and it keeps us coming back.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2166\" data-end=\"2535\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2166\" data-end=\"2183\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Might have been the most expensive restaurant I’ve ever eaten in.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2249\" data-end=\"2252\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2252\" data-end=\"2269\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I agree.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2278\" data-end=\"2281\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2281\" data-end=\"2300\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, a special occasion. Again, setting the stage here.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2355\" data-end=\"2358\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2358\" data-end=\"2375\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it was awesome.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2397\" data-end=\"2400\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2400\" data-end=\"2417\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Birthday, anniversary. That’s the kind of place.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2466\" data-end=\"2469\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2469\" data-end=\"2488\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Worth it?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2498\" data-end=\"2501\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2501\" data-end=\"2518\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Yeah. [Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2537\" data-end=\"2936\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2537\" data-end=\"2554\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> I would say might not go back, just due to the price, but that beef tenderloin made it worth it 100%.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2656\" data-end=\"2659\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2659\" data-end=\"2678\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Well, it made it very special for you.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2717\" data-end=\"2720\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2720\" data-end=\"2737\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Very special.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2751\" data-end=\"2754\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2754\" data-end=\"2771\">Anna Mindess:\u003c/strong> Life is short.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2786\" data-end=\"2789\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2789\" data-end=\"2808\">Jason Douglass:\u003c/strong> Life is short. Our coffins don’t have pockets.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2855\" data-end=\"2858\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2858\" data-end=\"2877\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> There you go. There you go.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2905\" data-end=\"2908\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2908\" data-end=\"2925\">Nima Alahari:\u003c/strong> Well said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2938\" data-end=\"3104\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2938\" data-end=\"2957\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> If you would like to try \u003cem data-start=\"2983\" data-end=\"2996\">Le Papillon\u003c/em>, it’s located on Saratoga Avenue in San Jose, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $150.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3106\" data-end=\"3267\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3106\" data-end=\"3125\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And now, reporter \u003cstrong data-start=\"3144\" data-end=\"3164\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong> takes us back to Fremont’s historic Niles neighborhood for more Bay Area bites you’ve just got to try.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3269\" data-end=\"3284\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"307\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"126\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Whoo! We’re here at the Flying A, which is kind of the cornerstone of the end of Niles. Lots of culture, lots of nostalgia. Tell me a little bit about what makes Niles so special.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"309\" data-end=\"791\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"309\" data-end=\"326\">Krysten Laine\u003c/strong>: Niles was the original Hollywood. Charlie Chaplin was brought here to do his first film, \u003cem data-start=\"417\" data-end=\"428\">The Tramp\u003c/em>, and they used to film Westerns here that are featured in Niles Canyon. And a lot of these buildings are still here that were there back in the day. This gas station was built in 1938. We brought the car culture back with the Niles Flying A, and every month we have Classics & Coffee, where people bring their classic cars, kick back, relax and have a good time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"793\" data-end=\"961\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"793\" data-end=\"813\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: So, that’s so cool. So, people can come, bring their cars, get a little bit of coffee and get some treats from the farmers market down the street.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"963\" data-end=\"993\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"963\" data-end=\"980\">Krysten Laine\u003c/strong>: Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"995\" data-end=\"1010\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1012\" data-end=\"1104\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1012\" data-end=\"1025\">Ken Phung\u003c/strong>: Our business is Dough Wei Me Bakery, and we sell artisan donuts and pastries.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1106\" data-end=\"1160\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1106\" data-end=\"1126\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: How do they make them so fluffy?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1162\" data-end=\"1192\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1162\" data-end=\"1175\">Ken Phung\u003c/strong>: It’s the yeast.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1194\" data-end=\"1274\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1194\" data-end=\"1214\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Okay, so it’s a yeasted doughnut, kind of like a malasada?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1276\" data-end=\"1389\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1276\" data-end=\"1289\">Ken Phung\u003c/strong>: It’s a malasada. It has eggs, sugar. And so the yeast eats the sugar, has CO2 and make it pouf up.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1391\" data-end=\"1411\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1391\" data-end=\"1399\">Both\u003c/strong>: Thank you!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1413\" data-end=\"1532\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1413\" data-end=\"1426\">Zoe Phung\u003c/strong>: This is our ube coconut mochi, our tiramisu, our chocolate hazelnut banana, and our pistachio raspberry.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1534\" data-end=\"1585\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1534\" data-end=\"1554\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Okay, which one should I try?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1587\" data-end=\"1621\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1587\" data-end=\"1600\">Zoe Phung\u003c/strong>: Maybe the tiramisu.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1623\" data-end=\"1706\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1623\" data-end=\"1643\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Dough Wei Me! Oh, my gosh, there’s sugar everywhere. [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1708\" data-end=\"1740\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1708\" data-end=\"1715\">Man\u003c/strong>: Blueberry cream cheese.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1742\" data-end=\"1777\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1742\" data-end=\"1751\">Woman\u003c/strong>: We’ll take one of those.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1779\" data-end=\"1796\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1779\" data-end=\"1786\">Man\u003c/strong>: Alright.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1798\" data-end=\"1877\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1798\" data-end=\"1818\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Niles Pie Company. You’ve been around for a little while.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1879\" data-end=\"1991\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1879\" data-end=\"1894\">Sarah Vegas\u003c/strong>: We’ve been around for about 15 years. We’re a worker cooperative. All butter, all scratch-made.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1993\" data-end=\"2047\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1993\" data-end=\"2013\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: All butter sounds good. [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2049\" data-end=\"2260\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2049\" data-end=\"2064\">Sarah Vegas\u003c/strong>: We’ve got our brand-new bacon béchamel savory pastry. It’s got a little bit of our house-made béchamel, chives, hickory-smoked bacon, everything bagel seasoning, and our house-made pastry crust.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2262\" data-end=\"2302\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2262\" data-end=\"2282\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: And this one here?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2304\" data-end=\"2428\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2304\" data-end=\"2319\">Sarah Vegas\u003c/strong>: And there is our beef and potato pasty with ground sirloin, Yukon gold potatoes, carrots, herbs and spices.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2430\" data-end=\"2565\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2430\" data-end=\"2450\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Yes. Ooh! That spice really comes through on the top, too. We’re at MAD Creationz. What makes your creations mad?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2567\" data-end=\"2804\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2567\" data-end=\"2584\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: It’s really — It stands for “Make a Difference.” During COVID, me and my wife started a non-profit. So 5% of our proceeds goes to that nonprofit. We like to provide food for less-fortunate families during the holidays.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2806\" data-end=\"2886\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2806\" data-end=\"2826\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: So you’re not mad at all. You’re quite happy, nice people.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2888\" data-end=\"3081\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2888\" data-end=\"2905\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: Yeah, exactly. Barbecue is our number-one thing we like to make. Brisket, primarily. Low and slow. No shortcuts. I have the Space Cowboy right here, which is our smashburger.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3083\" data-end=\"3120\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3083\" data-end=\"3103\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: And in my hand?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3122\" data-end=\"3251\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3122\" data-end=\"3139\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: That is our legendary four-cheese macaroni and cheese with our smoked brisket and our homemade barbecue sauce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3253\" data-end=\"3303\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3253\" data-end=\"3273\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: So, what cheeses do you use?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3305\" data-end=\"3438\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3305\" data-end=\"3322\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: I’ll tell you two out of the four. Swiss cheese, cheddar cheese, and then there’s two others that are very secret.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3440\" data-end=\"3545\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3440\" data-end=\"3460\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: But if I’m able to taste this and guess what they are, you’ll tell me if I’m right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3547\" data-end=\"3583\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3547\" data-end=\"3564\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: Yes, ma’am. 100%.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3585\" data-end=\"3674\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3585\" data-end=\"3605\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Alright. Look at all this cheese. Mmm! Is one of them cream cheese?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3676\" data-end=\"3703\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3676\" data-end=\"3693\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: Exactly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3705\" data-end=\"3740\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3705\" data-end=\"3725\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Yes! [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3742\" data-end=\"3785\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3742\" data-end=\"3759\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: That was the secret one!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3787\" data-end=\"3953\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3787\" data-end=\"3807\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Yes! Alright. You know what? Here’s the thing — for the viewers, we’re going to leave the other one a secret. Okay? I’m not even going to guess.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3955\" data-end=\"3979\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3955\" data-end=\"3972\">Marcus Dunlap\u003c/strong>: Okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3981\" data-end=\"4008\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3981\" data-end=\"4001\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4010\" data-end=\"4025\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4027\" data-end=\"4142\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4027\" data-end=\"4047\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: I don’t drink coffee. So I heard that, like, there’s an alternative here that can wake me up?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4144\" data-end=\"4261\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4144\" data-end=\"4154\">Jordan\u003c/strong>: Mm-hmm. I’ve got wheatgrass shots and ginger shots for you. It’s grown with love, so you will taste that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4263\" data-end=\"4316\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4263\" data-end=\"4283\">Cecilia Phillips\u003c/strong>: Okay. My first wheatgrass shot!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4318\" data-end=\"4355\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4318\" data-end=\"4328\">Jordan\u003c/strong>: Aw, you couldn’t fake it!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"slug": "check-please-bay-area-reviews-ethels-fancy-catos-ale-house-kiku-sushi",
"title": "Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Ethel's Fancy, Cato's Ale House, Kiku Sushi",
"publishDate": 1744338302,
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"headTitle": "Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Ethel’s Fancy, Cato’s Ale House, Kiku Sushi | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/em>season 20, episode 1, airs Thursday, April 10, at 7:30 pm, on KQED 9. See other \u003ca href=\"http://www.kqed.org/tv/programs/index.jsp?pgmid=14084\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">television airtimes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Welcome to the premiere of the 20th season of \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>! This week’s episode starts in the heart of downtown Palo Alto at \u003cstrong>Ethel’s Fancy\u003c/strong>, where a Michelin-trained chef brings modern twists to Japanese American cuisine with a lively, shareable menu. In an inviting, modern space accented with playful touches, diners feast on charcoal-grilled prawns, richly flavored Brandt Farms beef striploin, and delicate black sesame soft serve. Over in Oakland’s Piedmont Avenue district, \u003cstrong>Cato’s Ale House\u003c/strong> has been a neighborhood institution since 1994, drawing in locals with its warm, wood-paneled interior and an ever-rotating selection of nearly two dozen craft beers. Favorites include the satisfying Retroburger, the melty, smoky pastrami sandwich, and the crispy-yet-juicy Hallelujah! fried chicken sandwich. Finally, \u003cstrong>Kiku Sushi\u003c/strong> in Berkeley is known for both its pristine seafood alongside an extensive vegetarian and vegan sushi selection, making it a go-to for groups with diverse tastes. Whether it’s the eggplant-based fireman roll with a spicy kick, the buttery sake toro nigiri, or the satisfyingly crunchy crispy rice with avocado, Kiku offers something for every sushi lover.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_23434\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-23434\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Guests_02-800x533.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Guests_02-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Guests_02-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Guests_02-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Guests_02-768x512.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Guests_02-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Guests_02.png 1620w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco joins guests Jason Stein, Imani Isles and Eddie Ng from KQED in San Francisco.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Get Restaurant Information:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.ethelsfancypa.com/\">\u003cstrong>Ethel’s Fancy\u003c/strong> (Palo Alto)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://catosalehouse.com/\">\u003cstrong>Cato’s Ale House\u003c/strong> (Oakland)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kikusushivegetarian.com/berkeley-page\">\u003cstrong>Kiku Sushi\u003c/strong> (Berkeley)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_20123\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-20123\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2019/04/Leslie-Headshot-Smokey-copy-800x540.jpg\" alt=\"Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine\" width=\"800\" height=\"540\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine \u003ccite>(Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the \u003ca href=\"http://ww2.kqed.org/checkplease/host-biography/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">host\u003c/a> of \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-23435\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-800x829.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"829\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-800x829.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-1020x1057.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-160x166.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-768x796.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-1483x1536.png 1483w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-1977x2048.png 1977w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-1920x1989.png 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\">\u003cb>\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003ca style=\"color: #339966\" href=\"https://www.corcellars.com\">Cor Cellars 2023 ‘AGO’ Tocai Friulano\u003c/a>\u003c/span>\u003cbr>\n\u003c/b>\u003cem>Columbia Gorge, Washington $30\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>Cor Cellars was founded in 2004 by Luke Bradford and is now run alongside his wife, Meg. They have several different labels representing the brand including their distinctive lineup called AGO (meaning “before the present time”).This racy white is made with a famed northern Italian grape, Tocai Friulano, planted in the Columbia Gorge wine-growing area. Alluring aromas of white peaches draw you in for a taste that’s a touch earthy with a creamy texture.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cb>\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003ca style=\"color: #339966\" href=\"http://www.amosrome.com\">Amos Rome Vineyards 2023 Grüner Veltliner\u003c/a>\u003c/span>\u003cbr>\n\u003c/b>\u003cem>Lake Chelan, Washington $30\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>Lake Chelan is known for its beautiful scenery and as a destination for outdoor activities. Lately, the viticultural area has also been gaining acclaim for its wines. The well-known Austrian grape, Grüner Veltliner, thrives in cooler climates producing crisp, bright whites. Planted in Amos Rome’s High Blossom Vineyard, this Grüner shines.This version from winemaker and owner Travis Clark, is zesty with hints of citrus, herbal notes, and a mouthwatering freshness.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\">\u003cb>\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003ca style=\"color: #339966\" href=\"https://www.devisonvintners.com\">Devison 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Evergreen Vineyard\u003c/a>\u003c/span>\u003cbr>\n\u003c/b>\u003cem>Columbia Valley, Washington $28\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>The mantra of winery owners, Peter and Kelsey Devison, is “Texture. Tension. Terroir.” Three words that perfectly describe their lineup of singular wines including this world-class Sauvignon Blanc. Hailing from the Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, it expresses minerality and citrus intensity layered with lushness. Though this is a serious Sauvignon Blanc that reminds me of classic French Sancerre, its whimsical label and succulent character make it seriously fun to sip.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Episode Transcript\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"193\" data-end=\"250\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"193\" data-end=\"211\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Seasonal small plates in Palo Alto…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"252\" data-end=\"307\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"252\" data-end=\"264\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: I wish I had it in front of me right now.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"309\" data-end=\"365\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"309\" data-end=\"327\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: …pub classics on tap in Oakland…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"367\" data-end=\"440\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"367\" data-end=\"382\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: I really like the Retroburger, kind of a perfect burger.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"442\" data-end=\"501\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"442\" data-end=\"460\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: …and rockin’ sushi rolls in Berkeley.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"503\" data-end=\"552\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"503\" data-end=\"518\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: It’s just absolutely to die for.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"554\" data-end=\"614\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"554\" data-end=\"572\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Just ahead on \u003cem data-start=\"588\" data-end=\"614\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"616\" data-end=\"705\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"616\" data-end=\"631\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: This is the vibe. I’m enjoying the music. I’m enjoying the conversation.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"707\" data-end=\"740\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"707\" data-end=\"725\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Life is good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"742\" data-end=\"769\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"742\" data-end=\"757\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Life is…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"771\" data-end=\"804\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"771\" data-end=\"789\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Life is good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"806\" data-end=\"821\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"823\" data-end=\"1323\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"823\" data-end=\"841\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Hi, I’m Leslie Sbrocco. Welcome to \u003cem data-start=\"878\" data-end=\"904\">Check, Please! Bay Area,\u003c/em> the show where Bay Area residents review and talk about their favorite restaurants. Now, we have three guests, and each one recommends one of their favorite spots, and the other two go check them out to see what they think. Joining me at the \u003cem data-start=\"1147\" data-end=\"1163\">Check, Please!\u003c/em> table today are tattoo artist Jason Stein, project manager Eddie Ng, and data analyst and model Imani Isles. Welcome, everyone. Are you ready for our fun show?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1325\" data-end=\"1346\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1325\" data-end=\"1340\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1348\" data-end=\"1378\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1348\" data-end=\"1360\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Yes. Can’t wait.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1380\" data-end=\"1658\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1380\" data-end=\"1398\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: We kick things off with Eddie’s pick. Offering an elevated yet approachable menu of shareable plates in a hip, modern space, it’s the perfect place to throw a dinner party for his friends. Minus the cleanup. Located in downtown Palo Alto, it’s Ethel’s Fancy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1660\" data-end=\"1675\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1677\" data-end=\"1873\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1677\" data-end=\"1696\">Scott Nishiyama\u003c/strong>: At Ethel’s Fancy, we wanted to keep it fun. It’s very evident when you walk in here that there’s a lot of energy going on. Open kitchen and an open fire and great hospitality.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1875\" data-end=\"1961\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1875\" data-end=\"1882\">Man\u003c/strong>: Alrighty, guys. Here we got the miso-marinated cucumbers, Asian Shinko pears.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1963\" data-end=\"2740\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1963\" data-end=\"1982\">Scott Nishiyama\u003c/strong>: This is a very personal restaurant named after my grandmother and my mom. I’m originally from Hawaii, born and raised on Maui. Because Hawaii is such a melting pot of different cultures, we take a lot of inspiration from different cuisines. Being Japanese-American, I definitely wanted to introduce a little bit of that into my cooking. Most of my training has been in French and Italian, but it’s hard not to get influenced by the things that I grew up eating and I love to eat. I always had a deep love for cooking growing up with my mom and my grandmother. There’s one dish in particular that we do. It’s a kampachi crudo, inspired by a Japanese senbei recipe that my mom used to make. You do it on a little yakitori cracker. A lot of textures going on.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2742\" data-end=\"2780\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2742\" data-end=\"2751\">Woman\u003c/strong>: It’s amazing. It’s so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2782\" data-end=\"3486\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2782\" data-end=\"2801\">Scott Nishiyama\u003c/strong>: Growing up, I loved barbecues outside, and Japanese yakitori is like one of my favorite things to eat. We grill over wood and binchotan, which is Japanese charcoal, to impart that nice smoky flavor to everything. Another aspect I really wanted for the restaurant was having soft serve, because I love soft serve. We’re constantly changing those flavors up, and we pair it with fresh fruit in season. This is a black sesame crumble, frozen raspberries. While we take the food and the drinks very seriously, we don’t try to take ourselves seriously. We want it to be a really fun and interactive space. You see that…that nod from people, and you know that they’re having a good time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3488\" data-end=\"3503\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3505\" data-end=\"3524\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3505\" data-end=\"3512\">Man\u003c/strong>: Very good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3526\" data-end=\"3608\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3526\" data-end=\"3544\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Alright, Eddie. Ethel’s Fancy. Sounds like such a unique spot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3610\" data-end=\"3744\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3610\" data-end=\"3622\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Yeah. I highly recommend you come here with a lot of people, at least four, just so you can try everything and share it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3746\" data-end=\"3801\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3746\" data-end=\"3764\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: And what do you usually start with?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3803\" data-end=\"4040\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3803\" data-end=\"3815\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: We open with getting the bread. It’s this milk bread. It’s nice and golden on top, super piping warm. And they have this beautiful dab of butter or some sea salt that you could put on top of it. Honestly, you don’t need it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4042\" data-end=\"4190\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4042\" data-end=\"4057\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: We also started with the bread, and the bread is — I’ve had milk bread other places before. This was definitely something special.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4192\" data-end=\"4350\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4192\" data-end=\"4207\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Yeah. It just kind of melts in your mouth. I mean, it was super soft, and I think there was black sesame seeds, like, sprinkled on top of it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4352\" data-end=\"4376\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4352\" data-end=\"4367\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: Mm-hmm.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4378\" data-end=\"4465\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4378\" data-end=\"4393\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: I mean, Ethel’s Fancy, like, yes, she is. Like, Ethel’s \u003cem data-start=\"4451\" data-end=\"4458\">fancy\u003c/em> Fancy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4467\" data-end=\"4489\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4467\" data-end=\"4482\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4491\" data-end=\"4525\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4491\" data-end=\"4506\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: It was very nice.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4527\" data-end=\"4606\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4527\" data-end=\"4545\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Alright, so after the rolls, where do you head on the menu?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4608\" data-end=\"4743\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4608\" data-end=\"4620\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: The menu is always constantly changing with the season, but if they do have it, you should get the hand-cut beef tartare.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4745\" data-end=\"4770\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4745\" data-end=\"4760\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: So good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4772\" data-end=\"5070\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4772\" data-end=\"4784\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: There’s like, kind of a soy sauce-y umami essence to it. There was like a cracker that came with it that you could get that crunchy texture as you need it, contrasting with the soft tenderness of the meat. Just thinking about right now, like, I wish I had it in front of me right now.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5072\" data-end=\"5113\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5072\" data-end=\"5087\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: And the soft-boiled egg.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5115\" data-end=\"5181\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5115\" data-end=\"5130\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: I can taste it the way that you’re describing it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5183\" data-end=\"5209\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5183\" data-end=\"5195\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Oh, the egg.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5211\" data-end=\"5260\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5211\" data-end=\"5226\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: That soy egg that it comes with.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5262\" data-end=\"5299\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5262\" data-end=\"5274\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Yes. Oh, the egg was —\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5301\" data-end=\"5342\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5301\" data-end=\"5319\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: You got this as well?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5344\" data-end=\"5426\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5344\" data-end=\"5359\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: Yeah. It was amazing. Probably one of the best tartares I’ve had.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5428\" data-end=\"5454\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5428\" data-end=\"5440\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Yes. Mm-hmm.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5456\" data-end=\"5889\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5456\" data-end=\"5471\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: So good. We ordered the sesame pancake, which was really great. The pancake itself is almost like a mochi sort of chewy kind of thing with great sesame flavor. And then it came with this sauce that was sort of the star of it. It was a whipped cream with a smoked fish in it. It also had an avocado, which seems like it would be overkill on the creamy, whatever. But all the flavors complemented each other perfectly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5891\" data-end=\"5936\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5891\" data-end=\"5909\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Imani’s shaking her head.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5938\" data-end=\"6237\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5938\" data-end=\"5953\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: I mean, it was sensational. I also had the pancakes, and they’re small. They’re a little more dense than you think they would be. That chili on the side really complemented. It wasn’t an overwhelming heat. I think it paired very nicely with the fish and the texture of the pancakes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"130\" data-end=\"406\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"130\" data-end=\"148\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Jason’s keeping it casual with his favorite place to kick back with a burger and a brew. His only challenge—deciding which craft beer to choose of the more than 20 on tap year-round. Located in Oakland’s Piedmont Avenue neighborhood, it’s Cato’s Ale House.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"408\" data-end=\"423\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"425\" data-end=\"450\">Woman: Thanks for coming!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"452\" data-end=\"470\">Man: How you been?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"472\" data-end=\"487\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"489\" data-end=\"741\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"489\" data-end=\"506\">Cara Devereux\u003c/strong>: People are very intrigued by Cato’s when they come in. It looks like a house as it was and it was converted into a restaurant. There’s nooks and crannies for you to have an intimate date night. There is space for you to have a group.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"743\" data-end=\"760\">Together: Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"762\" data-end=\"777\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"779\" data-end=\"1584\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"779\" data-end=\"796\">Cara Devereux\u003c/strong>: We have live music every Wednesday and Sunday. We have trivia every Monday evening. It’s a very comfortable space. Our menu is a hodgepodge of different things, so we have snackable, shareable plates, we have burgers, sandwiches. You can customize your own pizza. There’s something for everybody. My favorite thing on the menu is the Hallelujah! fried chicken sandwich. The vinegar-based slaw is awesome. So a simple sandwich that just ends up blowing your mind. We’re really proud to serve 23 lines of craft beer. We were one of the first restaurants in the Bay Area to have Pliny the Elder from Russian River on draught permanently. We are happy to guide you. If you don’t know what kind of beer you’re looking for—malty, sweet, tart. And if you do, that’s great. We’ll get you ready.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1586\" data-end=\"1610\">[bell ringing, cheering]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1612\" data-end=\"1820\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1612\" data-end=\"1629\">Cara Devereux\u003c/strong>: You’ll notice that we have a standing bar where you’re going to bump elbows and mingle with the people you’re around, and we really do that to embrace and encourage interaction with guests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1822\" data-end=\"1854\">Woman: You gonna have some food?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1856\" data-end=\"2514\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1856\" data-end=\"1873\">Cara Devereux\u003c/strong>: Awesome. I’ve been coming to Cato’s since I was a child. I’ve been coming for the 30 years that we’ve been open. I started working here in the kitchen seven years ago, worked my way up to manager. And it’s just the best place to work with the best people. None of us feel like we’re working, honestly. It just feels like a place where we get to come hang out. We do get a lot of families in here—a lot of kids who we know by name, we watch them grow up, and they feel that Cato’s is theirs. I think that’s one of the most important things about Cato’s—it feels like it’s everybody’s space. It’s “my Cato’s.” To everybody, it’s “my Cato’s.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2516\" data-end=\"2570\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2516\" data-end=\"2534\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: So, Jason, is this your go-to pub?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2572\" data-end=\"2607\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2572\" data-end=\"2587\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: Yeah. Pretty much.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2609\" data-end=\"2632\">Man: I’ll take a Pliny.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2634\" data-end=\"2659\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2634\" data-end=\"2651\">Cara Devereux\u003c/strong>: Pliny?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2661\" data-end=\"2671\">Man: Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2673\" data-end=\"3278\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2673\" data-end=\"2688\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: It’s just got a very cozy atmosphere that you feel instantly comfortable in. A lot of places that are pubs, they’ll have a good selection of beer and, eh, they have food, you know? This place, they really focus on the food. And I really like the Retroburger. It’s got bacon on it—crisp, thick bacon. The bun is just right. You know, it’s not an overly fat brioche bun or something obtrusive. It’s just enough to sort of carry the burger. They cook it perfectly every time if you ask for it medium rare. The fries that come with it are great. Yeah, it’s kind of a perfect burger, you know?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3280\" data-end=\"3310\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3280\" data-end=\"3298\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: You agree?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3312\" data-end=\"3528\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3312\" data-end=\"3324\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Oh, so I 100% agree with everything. I think the only thing I can add to it is it’s the kind of burger that you want to reach for so many napkins ’cause it’s so messy, but just in the best way possible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3530\" data-end=\"3552\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3530\" data-end=\"3545\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3554\" data-end=\"3718\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3554\" data-end=\"3566\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: And I was just, like, grabbing the napkins, and I felt like so much joy just eating it. It was very substantial. Like, I couldn’t finish it. I wanted—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3720\" data-end=\"3762\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3720\" data-end=\"3738\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: It was a 20-napkin-er.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3764\" data-end=\"4008\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3764\" data-end=\"3776\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Yeah. Oh, definitely. Yes, yes. And they had this Chuseok porter, a local Oakland brewery called Dokkaebier. And I was so excited to try it because I hadn’t seen it anywhere else, and it’s a really great way to start off the meal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4010\" data-end=\"4417\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4010\" data-end=\"4025\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: So they have a huge drink menu. I’m a cider girl myself, so I tried this like blue cosmic cider. Very citrus forward. It had a great taste to it and a great color as well. I think it brought a little fun to the night. And one of the standout dishes for me was the mac and cheese. I love a mac and cheese. I actually make a great mac and cheese—just a small plug. So this mac and cheese was—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4419\" data-end=\"4460\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4419\" data-end=\"4437\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: So you judge harshly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4462\" data-end=\"4767\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4462\" data-end=\"4477\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: I judge harshly. I know what I’m talking about. This mac and cheese was very creamy and it had some breadcrumbs on top that were just a good juxtaposition to the creamy and the crunchy. I think it had a great flavor as well, very well seasoned, so it kind of gave it this like homey feel.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4769\" data-end=\"4793\">Man: Hot, hot, hot, hot!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4795\" data-end=\"4846\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4795\" data-end=\"4810\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Did anybody go on Wednesday night?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4848\" data-end=\"4865\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4848\" data-end=\"4860\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: No.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4867\" data-end=\"4887\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4867\" data-end=\"4882\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: No.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4889\" data-end=\"4941\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4889\" data-end=\"4904\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: They have live music on Wednesdays.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4943\" data-end=\"4989\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4943\" data-end=\"4958\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: Oh, yeah. I heard about that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4991\" data-end=\"5255\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4991\" data-end=\"5006\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: So it was very nice ’cause you’re just enjoying kind of this live band and you’re just like, hey, this is—this is the vibe. I’m enjoying the music. I’m enjoying the conversation. The drinks are flowing, the mac and cheese is creamy. I really like—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5257\" data-end=\"5295\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5257\" data-end=\"5275\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Life is good feel.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5297\" data-end=\"5322\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5297\" data-end=\"5312\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Life is—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5324\" data-end=\"5357\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5324\" data-end=\"5342\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Life is good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"81\" data-end=\"141\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"81\" data-end=\"99\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Any other dishes you want to talk about?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"143\" data-end=\"455\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"143\" data-end=\"158\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: I really like their—actually, their bánh mì I think is great. They have a chicken bánh mì, and they also have a tofu bánh mì. They’re both lemongrass. And for a non-Vietnamese place, it’s a pretty solid bánh mì. Spicy, a little bit acidic. It’s got the pickled veggies on it. I think it’s great.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"457\" data-end=\"478\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"457\" data-end=\"472\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Mmm.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"480\" data-end=\"805\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"480\" data-end=\"492\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: So my wife got the pastrami sandwich. Any time she sees it anywhere, she loves to try different pastrami sandwiches. The portion sizes are super generous. The bread was toasted beautifully, like you have the golden-brown exterior. The meat was packed high. She was really happy that she got to try it, you know?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"807\" data-end=\"1017\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"807\" data-end=\"822\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: So, I had the Hallelujah! sandwich. It’s a fried chicken sandwich with a spicy coleslaw and a lemon aioli. And it’s very messy, just like the burger, but equally delicious. I really enjoyed it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1019\" data-end=\"1070\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1019\" data-end=\"1036\">Cara Devereux\u003c/strong>: I’ve got a pepperoni pizza here.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1072\" data-end=\"1210\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1072\" data-end=\"1087\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: My partner had the pizza, so there was, like, mushrooms, sausage on the pizza, and he did not have any complaints either.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1212\" data-end=\"1268\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1212\" data-end=\"1230\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Did you have anything else to drink?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1270\" data-end=\"1369\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1270\" data-end=\"1285\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: I had the Irish Red Ale. Just balanced, you know, not too bitter. Yeah. Nice beer.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1371\" data-end=\"1411\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1371\" data-end=\"1389\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: No room for dessert?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1413\" data-end=\"1452\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1413\" data-end=\"1428\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: I’d just get the beer.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1454\" data-end=\"1494\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1454\" data-end=\"1469\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: The beer was a dessert.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1496\" data-end=\"1540\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1496\" data-end=\"1508\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Yeah, the beer was my dessert.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1542\" data-end=\"1597\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1542\" data-end=\"1557\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: Yeah, exactly. Who has room, you know?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1599\" data-end=\"1670\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1599\" data-end=\"1617\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: And did you feel like this was an affordable place?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1672\" data-end=\"1765\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1672\" data-end=\"1684\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Oh, absolutely. I think it was such a great neighborhood spot to have to go to.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1767\" data-end=\"2091\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1767\" data-end=\"1782\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: We actually went there, and we bumped into a friend of ours who lives in Oakland, and they were watching the Celtics game. So that’s a good opportunity as well. If you’re a huge sports fan, that’s another element of community. There’s no seats at the bar, but there are people yelling for their team to win.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2093\" data-end=\"2137\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2093\" data-end=\"2111\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Would you go back again?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2139\" data-end=\"2197\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2139\" data-end=\"2151\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Oh, absolutely. I would go back again. 100%.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2199\" data-end=\"2221\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2199\" data-end=\"2214\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2223\" data-end=\"2399\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2223\" data-end=\"2241\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Alright. If you would like to try Cato’s Ale House, it’s located on Piedmont Avenue in Oakland, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $25.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"2223\" data-end=\"2399\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"250\" data-end=\"269\">[music playing]\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong data-start=\"2223\" data-end=\"2241\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Imani feels transported to Japan every time she steps into her\u003cbr>\nfavorite sushi bar. Featuring fish flown in daily, including a\u003cbr>\nmelt-on-your-tongue toro, it’s no wonder it’s become\u003cbr>\nher date night destination. Located in Berkeley, it’s Kiku Sushi.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"250\" data-end=\"269\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"250\" data-end=\"269\">[music playing]\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"271\" data-end=\"506\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"271\" data-end=\"293\">Sophia Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> Kiku Sushi is bringing two worlds together in one place — vegetarian and fish at the same time and same place and make them happy. We are immigrants from Mongolia. We work in Japanese restaurant at the beginning.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"508\" data-end=\"592\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"508\" data-end=\"527\">Jay Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> After I went to the school, I teach my sister how to make sushi.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"594\" data-end=\"662\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"594\" data-end=\"616\">Sophia Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> Then we decided us open the sushi restaurant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"664\" data-end=\"792\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"664\" data-end=\"683\">Jay Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> I like working at the sushi bar. I want to see people happy when they get the fishes. They want to watch me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"794\" data-end=\"916\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"794\" data-end=\"816\">Sophia Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> This is the fireman roll. So this has avocado on the bottom with the eggplant a little bit torched.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"918\" data-end=\"986\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"918\" data-end=\"937\">Jay Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> Good-quality fish comes from all over the world.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"988\" data-end=\"1177\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"988\" data-end=\"1010\">Sophia Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> Vegetables is endless vegetables we can use. On the menu, there is so many different things I love to eat. Always the sashimis, homemade black cod marinated. So good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1179\" data-end=\"1226\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1179\" data-end=\"1198\">Jay Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> Rice is the most important.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1228\" data-end=\"1556\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1228\" data-end=\"1250\">Sophia Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> We use short-grain sushi rice imported from Japan. We do have a special secret of making the sushi vinegars. The sushi rice, mixing is a very important part of it. When you’re mixing the rice, you don’t want to chop in through it. So that’s the reason the chef is mixing so that it doesn’t break the rice.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1558\" data-end=\"1792\">Don’t be surprised, every time you come, depending on the season, we make different kind of vegetarian dishes. One of my favorite is the seaweed salad. We use six different kinds of seaweed with the homemade sauce, which is very good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1794\" data-end=\"2002\">Making sushi, it is kind of art. Everybody has a different style, different imaginations to make the plate look amazing. I’m glad I learned it. I’m one of the woman chef in the Bay Area. I’m very proud of it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2004\" data-end=\"2032\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2004\" data-end=\"2014\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Chicken teriyaki.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2034\" data-end=\"2227\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2034\" data-end=\"2056\">Sophia Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> People after leave my restaurant, we would like to know them to be fully satisfied. They will remember what delicious food they had. Ohh! Thank you. Thank you for coming.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"2034\" data-end=\"2227\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"250\" data-end=\"269\">[music playing]\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"101\" data-end=\"169\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"101\" data-end=\"120\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Okay, so this is a date-night destination place?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"171\" data-end=\"383\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"171\" data-end=\"187\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Yes, for sure. It’s a very small, very intimate restaurant. There’s wood paneling on the walls and on the ceiling. The lights are kind of integrated within that wood paneling. It feels very cozy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"385\" data-end=\"761\">I started with the seaweed salad. It’s a beautiful, like, array of colors. You have some red, some burgundy, some green, of course, and it’s topped with sesame seeds. It’s a little bland, I would say. And how I spice it up is adding a little soy sauce, and that just perks it right up. It’s just a perfect starter, kind of awakens your palate and gets you ready for the sushi.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"763\" data-end=\"939\">My go-to dish is the negi toro. I really like a fatty tuna. It is just very buttery, very soft, melts in your mouth, topped with scallions. And it’s just absolutely to die for.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"941\" data-end=\"1221\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"941\" data-end=\"957\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> Their fish was very fresh. I tried to get the negi toro. They were out of it, sadly, but I did get a salmon nigiri that was great, although they seared the salmon, which was really good. I normally prefer it raw, but I enjoyed it. It was great. It was very fatty.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1223\" data-end=\"1328\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1223\" data-end=\"1239\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it’s salmon with salmon roe on top, and it’s, again, buttery, melts in your mouth.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1330\" data-end=\"1561\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1330\" data-end=\"1346\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> And their nigiri are large, too. You get a big piece of fish. I had the escolar nigiri, which was amazing. The flavor of the fish was just so complex and fresh and perfect. And they put a little green onion on top.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1563\" data-end=\"1585\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1563\" data-end=\"1579\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1587\" data-end=\"1987\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1587\" data-end=\"1600\">Eddie Ng:\u003c/strong> My wife and I, we went for lunch. So what was really nice was that they had these different sets that you can pick from. So my wife got the sashimi lunch set, and there you can customize. If you didn’t want one fish, you could sub one out. So she had decided to get the chu-toro. She’s a big fan of fatty tuna. So everything that she got was really amazing. You could taste the quality.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1989\" data-end=\"2315\">So for myself, I actually decided to go a different direction. I did their nigiri vegetarian set. And so each nigiri was a different type of vegetable. And it was really amazing how they were able to nuance flavors out of those vegetables. Like, there was eggplant that was really amazing. That was just something really cool.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2317\" data-end=\"2542\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2317\" data-end=\"2333\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> I tried the Kiku roll. And the Kiku roll was sensational. No wonder it’s their namesake because it had yams. It was very crunchy, very savory, deep fried as well. So it fills you up, and it’s just phenomenal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2544\" data-end=\"2829\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2544\" data-end=\"2560\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I had also off the vegetarian menu, the Fireman’s roll, which was, I thought, great. It had a spicy sauce and the eggplant was charred and smoky. The overall flavor was just this strong smoke profile, not like a sushi roll I’ve had anywhere before. It was tasty.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2831\" data-end=\"2934\">Their vegetarian options were great. They had a crispy rice with sweet potato puree that was fantastic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2936\" data-end=\"3117\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2936\" data-end=\"2952\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> We’ve also had the crispy rice with sweet potato and it was delicious. Very crunchy. Kind of gets stuck in your teeth a little bit. Take your time. But very savory.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3119\" data-end=\"3141\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3119\" data-end=\"3129\">Woman:\u003c/strong> How was it?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3143\" data-end=\"3168\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3143\" data-end=\"3157\">Young man:\u003c/strong> Very good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3170\" data-end=\"3354\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3170\" data-end=\"3186\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> I ordered the crispy rice with avocado. And I think I prefer the sweet potato just because of the sweetness, the juxtaposition of the savory rice and the sweet potato.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3356\" data-end=\"3392\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3356\" data-end=\"3372\">Young woman:\u003c/strong> That’s really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3394\" data-end=\"3511\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3394\" data-end=\"3410\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> It just kind of has a nice savory flavor in your mouth. And for dessert, I had the strawberry mochi.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3513\" data-end=\"3538\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3513\" data-end=\"3521\">Man:\u003c/strong> Oh, that’s fire.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3540\" data-end=\"3749\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3540\" data-end=\"3556\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> The mochi is a kind of gummy texture. And then inside is strawberry ice cream. And it was just a nice, something sweet, something brief to have right after your dinner. I very much enjoyed it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3751\" data-end=\"3804\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3751\" data-end=\"3770\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And do you get anything to drink?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3806\" data-end=\"4009\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3806\" data-end=\"3822\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> I usually get saké. This one was kind of milky. Very good creamy texture to it. And one of my favorite things about Kiku is that when you choose to order saké, you can choose your glass.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4011\" data-end=\"4032\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4011\" data-end=\"4019\">All:\u003c/strong> [exclaiming]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4034\" data-end=\"4252\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4034\" data-end=\"4050\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> So they come to you and they give you, like, a series of, like, ornate glasses. And it’s just kind of this customization, like this choice that you didn’t know that you needed. But it was nice to have.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4254\" data-end=\"4291\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4254\" data-end=\"4267\">Eddie Ng:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it’s pretty cool.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4293\" data-end=\"4359\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4293\" data-end=\"4309\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> I also had sake. I didn’t get to choose my glass.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4361\" data-end=\"4380\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4361\" data-end=\"4369\">All:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4382\" data-end=\"4406\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4382\" data-end=\"4398\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> I know.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4408\" data-end=\"4430\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4408\" data-end=\"4424\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Gasp!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4432\" data-end=\"4478\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4432\" data-end=\"4451\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You weren’t on date night.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4480\" data-end=\"4792\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4480\" data-end=\"4496\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> I guess not. Yeah. You know. But they did have these cool glasses that had a sort of thing in it that they could put ice in, so it kept it cold, but without it being in the saké. And they were pretty. But I could see that they had a lot of glasses around. So I guess, you know, one could choose.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4794\" data-end=\"4816\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4794\" data-end=\"4810\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4818\" data-end=\"4843\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4818\" data-end=\"4831\">Eddie Ng:\u003c/strong> Yeah, yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4845\" data-end=\"4898\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4845\" data-end=\"4861\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Well, let’s bring that up next time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4900\" data-end=\"4922\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4900\" data-end=\"4916\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4924\" data-end=\"4968\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4924\" data-end=\"4943\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You have to go together.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4970\" data-end=\"4995\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4970\" data-end=\"4986\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> Totally.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4997\" data-end=\"5226\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4997\" data-end=\"5013\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Yeah. The service is also very cozy. Very, like, community oriented. I feel like the service was just checking in on you, making sure that you have everything and not overwhelming you with too many rules at once.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5228\" data-end=\"5280\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5228\" data-end=\"5247\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you feel that about service?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5282\" data-end=\"5600\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5282\" data-end=\"5295\">Eddie Ng:\u003c/strong> Oh, absolutely. You know, they were very attentive. They, you know, ask questions like, What were you interested in? They try to work with you, like with my wife, with the customization. I just thought they really wanted you to feel at home in their restaurant. And, you know, I think it goes a long way.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5602\" data-end=\"5670\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5602\" data-end=\"5621\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And sushi typically is a pricier meal, isn’t it?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5672\" data-end=\"5741\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5672\" data-end=\"5688\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> Yeah, usually. They’re pretty reasonable, I thought.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5743\" data-end=\"5943\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5743\" data-end=\"5759\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> This is very accessible. Yeah. And I think that aspect of like the vegetarian menu as well kind of contributes to that accessibility. But it is not like crazy price range I would say.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5945\" data-end=\"6074\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5945\" data-end=\"5958\">Eddie Ng:\u003c/strong> But you know, I definitely want to go back for a date night and try the saké. That sounds like a really great time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6076\" data-end=\"6110\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6076\" data-end=\"6092\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Highly recommend.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6112\" data-end=\"6131\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6112\" data-end=\"6125\">Eddie Ng:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6133\" data-end=\"6302\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6133\" data-end=\"6152\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, if you would like to try Kiku Sushi, it’s located on Gilman Street in Berkeley, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $35.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"161\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"104\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Looking for more Bay Area bites? You’ve just got to try.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"163\" data-end=\"184\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"163\" data-end=\"175\">Cecilia:\u003c/strong> [laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"186\" data-end=\"266\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"186\" data-end=\"205\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Check out \u003cem data-start=\"216\" data-end=\"234\">Cecilia Tries It\u003c/em> online at kqed.org/checkplease.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"268\" data-end=\"296\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"268\" data-end=\"280\">Cecilia:\u003c/strong> [chuckles] Mmm!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"298\" data-end=\"622\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"298\" data-end=\"317\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I have to thank my great guests on this week’s show — \u003cstrong data-start=\"372\" data-end=\"387\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>, who raves about the retro burger at Cato’s Ale House in Oakland, \u003cstrong data-start=\"454\" data-end=\"466\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>, who has no problem sharing the mouthwatering morsels at Ethel’s Fancy in Palo Alto, and \u003cstrong data-start=\"556\" data-end=\"571\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>, who loves sipping saké at Kiku Sushi in Berkeley.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"624\" data-end=\"801\">Join us next time when three more guests will recommend their favorite spots right here on \u003cem data-start=\"715\" data-end=\"740\">Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>. I’m Leslie Sbrocco and I’ll see you then. Cheers, everyone.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"803\" data-end=\"827\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"803\" data-end=\"819\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"829\" data-end=\"877\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"829\" data-end=\"848\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Was reaching for your glass.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"879\" data-end=\"903\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"879\" data-end=\"895\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"905\" data-end=\"921\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"905\" data-end=\"913\">All:\u003c/strong> [laugh]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"923\" data-end=\"950\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"923\" data-end=\"942\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"952\" data-end=\"967\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"969\" data-end=\"1519\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"969\" data-end=\"989\">Scott Nishiyama:\u003c/strong> One of the dishes that we’re most proud of is probably the milk bread. It started just from a regular Japanese milk bread, but we’ve added some twists to it. We use Rouge de Bordeaux flour that adds a delicious nuttiness and whole grain flavor to the bread. It also retains that nice fluffy texture. We pair it with a cultured butter that’s infused with Amazake, which is a Japanese rice drink. It comes out to the table nice and hot. The butter melts beautifully on it. And it flies out the door. We sell out almost every night.\u003c/p>\n\n",
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"title": "Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Ethel's Fancy, Cato's Ale House, Kiku Sushi | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/em>season 20, episode 1, airs Thursday, April 10, at 7:30 pm, on KQED 9. See other \u003ca href=\"http://www.kqed.org/tv/programs/index.jsp?pgmid=14084\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">television airtimes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Welcome to the premiere of the 20th season of \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>! This week’s episode starts in the heart of downtown Palo Alto at \u003cstrong>Ethel’s Fancy\u003c/strong>, where a Michelin-trained chef brings modern twists to Japanese American cuisine with a lively, shareable menu. In an inviting, modern space accented with playful touches, diners feast on charcoal-grilled prawns, richly flavored Brandt Farms beef striploin, and delicate black sesame soft serve. Over in Oakland’s Piedmont Avenue district, \u003cstrong>Cato’s Ale House\u003c/strong> has been a neighborhood institution since 1994, drawing in locals with its warm, wood-paneled interior and an ever-rotating selection of nearly two dozen craft beers. Favorites include the satisfying Retroburger, the melty, smoky pastrami sandwich, and the crispy-yet-juicy Hallelujah! fried chicken sandwich. Finally, \u003cstrong>Kiku Sushi\u003c/strong> in Berkeley is known for both its pristine seafood alongside an extensive vegetarian and vegan sushi selection, making it a go-to for groups with diverse tastes. Whether it’s the eggplant-based fireman roll with a spicy kick, the buttery sake toro nigiri, or the satisfyingly crunchy crispy rice with avocado, Kiku offers something for every sushi lover.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_23434\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-23434\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Guests_02-800x533.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Guests_02-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Guests_02-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Guests_02-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Guests_02-768x512.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Guests_02-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Guests_02.png 1620w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco joins guests Jason Stein, Imani Isles and Eddie Ng from KQED in San Francisco.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Get Restaurant Information:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.ethelsfancypa.com/\">\u003cstrong>Ethel’s Fancy\u003c/strong> (Palo Alto)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://catosalehouse.com/\">\u003cstrong>Cato’s Ale House\u003c/strong> (Oakland)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kikusushivegetarian.com/berkeley-page\">\u003cstrong>Kiku Sushi\u003c/strong> (Berkeley)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_20123\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-20123\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2019/04/Leslie-Headshot-Smokey-copy-800x540.jpg\" alt=\"Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine\" width=\"800\" height=\"540\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine \u003ccite>(Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the \u003ca href=\"http://ww2.kqed.org/checkplease/host-biography/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">host\u003c/a> of \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-23435\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-800x829.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"829\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-800x829.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-1020x1057.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-160x166.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-768x796.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-1483x1536.png 1483w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-1977x2048.png 1977w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/04/2001_Wines-1920x1989.png 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\">\u003cb>\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003ca style=\"color: #339966\" href=\"https://www.corcellars.com\">Cor Cellars 2023 ‘AGO’ Tocai Friulano\u003c/a>\u003c/span>\u003cbr>\n\u003c/b>\u003cem>Columbia Gorge, Washington $30\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>Cor Cellars was founded in 2004 by Luke Bradford and is now run alongside his wife, Meg. They have several different labels representing the brand including their distinctive lineup called AGO (meaning “before the present time”).This racy white is made with a famed northern Italian grape, Tocai Friulano, planted in the Columbia Gorge wine-growing area. Alluring aromas of white peaches draw you in for a taste that’s a touch earthy with a creamy texture.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cb>\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003ca style=\"color: #339966\" href=\"http://www.amosrome.com\">Amos Rome Vineyards 2023 Grüner Veltliner\u003c/a>\u003c/span>\u003cbr>\n\u003c/b>\u003cem>Lake Chelan, Washington $30\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>Lake Chelan is known for its beautiful scenery and as a destination for outdoor activities. Lately, the viticultural area has also been gaining acclaim for its wines. The well-known Austrian grape, Grüner Veltliner, thrives in cooler climates producing crisp, bright whites. Planted in Amos Rome’s High Blossom Vineyard, this Grüner shines.This version from winemaker and owner Travis Clark, is zesty with hints of citrus, herbal notes, and a mouthwatering freshness.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\">\u003cb>\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003ca style=\"color: #339966\" href=\"https://www.devisonvintners.com\">Devison 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Evergreen Vineyard\u003c/a>\u003c/span>\u003cbr>\n\u003c/b>\u003cem>Columbia Valley, Washington $28\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>The mantra of winery owners, Peter and Kelsey Devison, is “Texture. Tension. Terroir.” Three words that perfectly describe their lineup of singular wines including this world-class Sauvignon Blanc. Hailing from the Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, it expresses minerality and citrus intensity layered with lushness. Though this is a serious Sauvignon Blanc that reminds me of classic French Sancerre, its whimsical label and succulent character make it seriously fun to sip.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Episode Transcript\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"193\" data-end=\"250\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"193\" data-end=\"211\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Seasonal small plates in Palo Alto…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"252\" data-end=\"307\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"252\" data-end=\"264\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: I wish I had it in front of me right now.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"309\" data-end=\"365\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"309\" data-end=\"327\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: …pub classics on tap in Oakland…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"367\" data-end=\"440\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"367\" data-end=\"382\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: I really like the Retroburger, kind of a perfect burger.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"442\" data-end=\"501\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"442\" data-end=\"460\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: …and rockin’ sushi rolls in Berkeley.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"503\" data-end=\"552\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"503\" data-end=\"518\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: It’s just absolutely to die for.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"554\" data-end=\"614\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"554\" data-end=\"572\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Just ahead on \u003cem data-start=\"588\" data-end=\"614\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"616\" data-end=\"705\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"616\" data-end=\"631\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: This is the vibe. I’m enjoying the music. I’m enjoying the conversation.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"707\" data-end=\"740\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"707\" data-end=\"725\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Life is good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"742\" data-end=\"769\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"742\" data-end=\"757\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Life is…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"771\" data-end=\"804\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"771\" data-end=\"789\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Life is good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"806\" data-end=\"821\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"823\" data-end=\"1323\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"823\" data-end=\"841\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Hi, I’m Leslie Sbrocco. Welcome to \u003cem data-start=\"878\" data-end=\"904\">Check, Please! Bay Area,\u003c/em> the show where Bay Area residents review and talk about their favorite restaurants. Now, we have three guests, and each one recommends one of their favorite spots, and the other two go check them out to see what they think. Joining me at the \u003cem data-start=\"1147\" data-end=\"1163\">Check, Please!\u003c/em> table today are tattoo artist Jason Stein, project manager Eddie Ng, and data analyst and model Imani Isles. Welcome, everyone. Are you ready for our fun show?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1325\" data-end=\"1346\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1325\" data-end=\"1340\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1348\" data-end=\"1378\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1348\" data-end=\"1360\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Yes. Can’t wait.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1380\" data-end=\"1658\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1380\" data-end=\"1398\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: We kick things off with Eddie’s pick. Offering an elevated yet approachable menu of shareable plates in a hip, modern space, it’s the perfect place to throw a dinner party for his friends. Minus the cleanup. Located in downtown Palo Alto, it’s Ethel’s Fancy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1660\" data-end=\"1675\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1677\" data-end=\"1873\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1677\" data-end=\"1696\">Scott Nishiyama\u003c/strong>: At Ethel’s Fancy, we wanted to keep it fun. It’s very evident when you walk in here that there’s a lot of energy going on. Open kitchen and an open fire and great hospitality.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1875\" data-end=\"1961\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1875\" data-end=\"1882\">Man\u003c/strong>: Alrighty, guys. Here we got the miso-marinated cucumbers, Asian Shinko pears.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1963\" data-end=\"2740\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1963\" data-end=\"1982\">Scott Nishiyama\u003c/strong>: This is a very personal restaurant named after my grandmother and my mom. I’m originally from Hawaii, born and raised on Maui. Because Hawaii is such a melting pot of different cultures, we take a lot of inspiration from different cuisines. Being Japanese-American, I definitely wanted to introduce a little bit of that into my cooking. Most of my training has been in French and Italian, but it’s hard not to get influenced by the things that I grew up eating and I love to eat. I always had a deep love for cooking growing up with my mom and my grandmother. There’s one dish in particular that we do. It’s a kampachi crudo, inspired by a Japanese senbei recipe that my mom used to make. You do it on a little yakitori cracker. A lot of textures going on.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2742\" data-end=\"2780\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2742\" data-end=\"2751\">Woman\u003c/strong>: It’s amazing. It’s so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2782\" data-end=\"3486\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2782\" data-end=\"2801\">Scott Nishiyama\u003c/strong>: Growing up, I loved barbecues outside, and Japanese yakitori is like one of my favorite things to eat. We grill over wood and binchotan, which is Japanese charcoal, to impart that nice smoky flavor to everything. Another aspect I really wanted for the restaurant was having soft serve, because I love soft serve. We’re constantly changing those flavors up, and we pair it with fresh fruit in season. This is a black sesame crumble, frozen raspberries. While we take the food and the drinks very seriously, we don’t try to take ourselves seriously. We want it to be a really fun and interactive space. You see that…that nod from people, and you know that they’re having a good time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3488\" data-end=\"3503\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3505\" data-end=\"3524\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3505\" data-end=\"3512\">Man\u003c/strong>: Very good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3526\" data-end=\"3608\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3526\" data-end=\"3544\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Alright, Eddie. Ethel’s Fancy. Sounds like such a unique spot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3610\" data-end=\"3744\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3610\" data-end=\"3622\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Yeah. I highly recommend you come here with a lot of people, at least four, just so you can try everything and share it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3746\" data-end=\"3801\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3746\" data-end=\"3764\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: And what do you usually start with?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3803\" data-end=\"4040\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3803\" data-end=\"3815\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: We open with getting the bread. It’s this milk bread. It’s nice and golden on top, super piping warm. And they have this beautiful dab of butter or some sea salt that you could put on top of it. Honestly, you don’t need it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4042\" data-end=\"4190\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4042\" data-end=\"4057\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: We also started with the bread, and the bread is — I’ve had milk bread other places before. This was definitely something special.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4192\" data-end=\"4350\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4192\" data-end=\"4207\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Yeah. It just kind of melts in your mouth. I mean, it was super soft, and I think there was black sesame seeds, like, sprinkled on top of it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4352\" data-end=\"4376\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4352\" data-end=\"4367\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: Mm-hmm.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4378\" data-end=\"4465\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4378\" data-end=\"4393\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: I mean, Ethel’s Fancy, like, yes, she is. Like, Ethel’s \u003cem data-start=\"4451\" data-end=\"4458\">fancy\u003c/em> Fancy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4467\" data-end=\"4489\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4467\" data-end=\"4482\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4491\" data-end=\"4525\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4491\" data-end=\"4506\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: It was very nice.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4527\" data-end=\"4606\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4527\" data-end=\"4545\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Alright, so after the rolls, where do you head on the menu?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4608\" data-end=\"4743\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4608\" data-end=\"4620\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: The menu is always constantly changing with the season, but if they do have it, you should get the hand-cut beef tartare.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4745\" data-end=\"4770\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4745\" data-end=\"4760\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: So good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4772\" data-end=\"5070\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4772\" data-end=\"4784\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: There’s like, kind of a soy sauce-y umami essence to it. There was like a cracker that came with it that you could get that crunchy texture as you need it, contrasting with the soft tenderness of the meat. Just thinking about right now, like, I wish I had it in front of me right now.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5072\" data-end=\"5113\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5072\" data-end=\"5087\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: And the soft-boiled egg.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5115\" data-end=\"5181\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5115\" data-end=\"5130\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: I can taste it the way that you’re describing it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5183\" data-end=\"5209\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5183\" data-end=\"5195\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Oh, the egg.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5211\" data-end=\"5260\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5211\" data-end=\"5226\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: That soy egg that it comes with.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5262\" data-end=\"5299\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5262\" data-end=\"5274\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Yes. Oh, the egg was —\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5301\" data-end=\"5342\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5301\" data-end=\"5319\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: You got this as well?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5344\" data-end=\"5426\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5344\" data-end=\"5359\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: Yeah. It was amazing. Probably one of the best tartares I’ve had.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5428\" data-end=\"5454\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5428\" data-end=\"5440\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Yes. Mm-hmm.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5456\" data-end=\"5889\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5456\" data-end=\"5471\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: So good. We ordered the sesame pancake, which was really great. The pancake itself is almost like a mochi sort of chewy kind of thing with great sesame flavor. And then it came with this sauce that was sort of the star of it. It was a whipped cream with a smoked fish in it. It also had an avocado, which seems like it would be overkill on the creamy, whatever. But all the flavors complemented each other perfectly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5891\" data-end=\"5936\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5891\" data-end=\"5909\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Imani’s shaking her head.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5938\" data-end=\"6237\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5938\" data-end=\"5953\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: I mean, it was sensational. I also had the pancakes, and they’re small. They’re a little more dense than you think they would be. That chili on the side really complemented. It wasn’t an overwhelming heat. I think it paired very nicely with the fish and the texture of the pancakes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"130\" data-end=\"406\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"130\" data-end=\"148\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Jason’s keeping it casual with his favorite place to kick back with a burger and a brew. His only challenge—deciding which craft beer to choose of the more than 20 on tap year-round. Located in Oakland’s Piedmont Avenue neighborhood, it’s Cato’s Ale House.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"408\" data-end=\"423\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"425\" data-end=\"450\">Woman: Thanks for coming!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"452\" data-end=\"470\">Man: How you been?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"472\" data-end=\"487\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"489\" data-end=\"741\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"489\" data-end=\"506\">Cara Devereux\u003c/strong>: People are very intrigued by Cato’s when they come in. It looks like a house as it was and it was converted into a restaurant. There’s nooks and crannies for you to have an intimate date night. There is space for you to have a group.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"743\" data-end=\"760\">Together: Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"762\" data-end=\"777\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"779\" data-end=\"1584\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"779\" data-end=\"796\">Cara Devereux\u003c/strong>: We have live music every Wednesday and Sunday. We have trivia every Monday evening. It’s a very comfortable space. Our menu is a hodgepodge of different things, so we have snackable, shareable plates, we have burgers, sandwiches. You can customize your own pizza. There’s something for everybody. My favorite thing on the menu is the Hallelujah! fried chicken sandwich. The vinegar-based slaw is awesome. So a simple sandwich that just ends up blowing your mind. We’re really proud to serve 23 lines of craft beer. We were one of the first restaurants in the Bay Area to have Pliny the Elder from Russian River on draught permanently. We are happy to guide you. If you don’t know what kind of beer you’re looking for—malty, sweet, tart. And if you do, that’s great. We’ll get you ready.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1586\" data-end=\"1610\">[bell ringing, cheering]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1612\" data-end=\"1820\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1612\" data-end=\"1629\">Cara Devereux\u003c/strong>: You’ll notice that we have a standing bar where you’re going to bump elbows and mingle with the people you’re around, and we really do that to embrace and encourage interaction with guests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1822\" data-end=\"1854\">Woman: You gonna have some food?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1856\" data-end=\"2514\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1856\" data-end=\"1873\">Cara Devereux\u003c/strong>: Awesome. I’ve been coming to Cato’s since I was a child. I’ve been coming for the 30 years that we’ve been open. I started working here in the kitchen seven years ago, worked my way up to manager. And it’s just the best place to work with the best people. None of us feel like we’re working, honestly. It just feels like a place where we get to come hang out. We do get a lot of families in here—a lot of kids who we know by name, we watch them grow up, and they feel that Cato’s is theirs. I think that’s one of the most important things about Cato’s—it feels like it’s everybody’s space. It’s “my Cato’s.” To everybody, it’s “my Cato’s.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2516\" data-end=\"2570\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2516\" data-end=\"2534\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: So, Jason, is this your go-to pub?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2572\" data-end=\"2607\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2572\" data-end=\"2587\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: Yeah. Pretty much.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2609\" data-end=\"2632\">Man: I’ll take a Pliny.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2634\" data-end=\"2659\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2634\" data-end=\"2651\">Cara Devereux\u003c/strong>: Pliny?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2661\" data-end=\"2671\">Man: Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2673\" data-end=\"3278\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2673\" data-end=\"2688\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: It’s just got a very cozy atmosphere that you feel instantly comfortable in. A lot of places that are pubs, they’ll have a good selection of beer and, eh, they have food, you know? This place, they really focus on the food. And I really like the Retroburger. It’s got bacon on it—crisp, thick bacon. The bun is just right. You know, it’s not an overly fat brioche bun or something obtrusive. It’s just enough to sort of carry the burger. They cook it perfectly every time if you ask for it medium rare. The fries that come with it are great. Yeah, it’s kind of a perfect burger, you know?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3280\" data-end=\"3310\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3280\" data-end=\"3298\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: You agree?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3312\" data-end=\"3528\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3312\" data-end=\"3324\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Oh, so I 100% agree with everything. I think the only thing I can add to it is it’s the kind of burger that you want to reach for so many napkins ’cause it’s so messy, but just in the best way possible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3530\" data-end=\"3552\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3530\" data-end=\"3545\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3554\" data-end=\"3718\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3554\" data-end=\"3566\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: And I was just, like, grabbing the napkins, and I felt like so much joy just eating it. It was very substantial. Like, I couldn’t finish it. I wanted—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3720\" data-end=\"3762\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3720\" data-end=\"3738\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: It was a 20-napkin-er.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3764\" data-end=\"4008\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3764\" data-end=\"3776\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Yeah. Oh, definitely. Yes, yes. And they had this Chuseok porter, a local Oakland brewery called Dokkaebier. And I was so excited to try it because I hadn’t seen it anywhere else, and it’s a really great way to start off the meal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4010\" data-end=\"4417\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4010\" data-end=\"4025\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: So they have a huge drink menu. I’m a cider girl myself, so I tried this like blue cosmic cider. Very citrus forward. It had a great taste to it and a great color as well. I think it brought a little fun to the night. And one of the standout dishes for me was the mac and cheese. I love a mac and cheese. I actually make a great mac and cheese—just a small plug. So this mac and cheese was—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4419\" data-end=\"4460\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4419\" data-end=\"4437\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: So you judge harshly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4462\" data-end=\"4767\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4462\" data-end=\"4477\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: I judge harshly. I know what I’m talking about. This mac and cheese was very creamy and it had some breadcrumbs on top that were just a good juxtaposition to the creamy and the crunchy. I think it had a great flavor as well, very well seasoned, so it kind of gave it this like homey feel.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4769\" data-end=\"4793\">Man: Hot, hot, hot, hot!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4795\" data-end=\"4846\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4795\" data-end=\"4810\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Did anybody go on Wednesday night?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4848\" data-end=\"4865\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4848\" data-end=\"4860\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: No.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4867\" data-end=\"4887\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4867\" data-end=\"4882\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: No.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4889\" data-end=\"4941\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4889\" data-end=\"4904\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: They have live music on Wednesdays.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4943\" data-end=\"4989\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4943\" data-end=\"4958\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: Oh, yeah. I heard about that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4991\" data-end=\"5255\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4991\" data-end=\"5006\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: So it was very nice ’cause you’re just enjoying kind of this live band and you’re just like, hey, this is—this is the vibe. I’m enjoying the music. I’m enjoying the conversation. The drinks are flowing, the mac and cheese is creamy. I really like—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5257\" data-end=\"5295\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5257\" data-end=\"5275\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Life is good feel.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5297\" data-end=\"5322\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5297\" data-end=\"5312\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Life is—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5324\" data-end=\"5357\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5324\" data-end=\"5342\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Life is good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"81\" data-end=\"141\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"81\" data-end=\"99\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Any other dishes you want to talk about?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"143\" data-end=\"455\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"143\" data-end=\"158\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: I really like their—actually, their bánh mì I think is great. They have a chicken bánh mì, and they also have a tofu bánh mì. They’re both lemongrass. And for a non-Vietnamese place, it’s a pretty solid bánh mì. Spicy, a little bit acidic. It’s got the pickled veggies on it. I think it’s great.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"457\" data-end=\"478\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"457\" data-end=\"472\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Mmm.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"480\" data-end=\"805\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"480\" data-end=\"492\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: So my wife got the pastrami sandwich. Any time she sees it anywhere, she loves to try different pastrami sandwiches. The portion sizes are super generous. The bread was toasted beautifully, like you have the golden-brown exterior. The meat was packed high. She was really happy that she got to try it, you know?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"807\" data-end=\"1017\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"807\" data-end=\"822\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: So, I had the Hallelujah! sandwich. It’s a fried chicken sandwich with a spicy coleslaw and a lemon aioli. And it’s very messy, just like the burger, but equally delicious. I really enjoyed it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1019\" data-end=\"1070\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1019\" data-end=\"1036\">Cara Devereux\u003c/strong>: I’ve got a pepperoni pizza here.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1072\" data-end=\"1210\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1072\" data-end=\"1087\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: My partner had the pizza, so there was, like, mushrooms, sausage on the pizza, and he did not have any complaints either.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1212\" data-end=\"1268\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1212\" data-end=\"1230\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Did you have anything else to drink?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1270\" data-end=\"1369\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1270\" data-end=\"1285\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: I had the Irish Red Ale. Just balanced, you know, not too bitter. Yeah. Nice beer.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1371\" data-end=\"1411\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1371\" data-end=\"1389\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: No room for dessert?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1413\" data-end=\"1452\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1413\" data-end=\"1428\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: I’d just get the beer.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1454\" data-end=\"1494\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1454\" data-end=\"1469\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: The beer was a dessert.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1496\" data-end=\"1540\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1496\" data-end=\"1508\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Yeah, the beer was my dessert.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1542\" data-end=\"1597\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1542\" data-end=\"1557\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>: Yeah, exactly. Who has room, you know?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1599\" data-end=\"1670\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1599\" data-end=\"1617\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: And did you feel like this was an affordable place?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1672\" data-end=\"1765\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1672\" data-end=\"1684\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Oh, absolutely. I think it was such a great neighborhood spot to have to go to.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1767\" data-end=\"2091\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1767\" data-end=\"1782\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: We actually went there, and we bumped into a friend of ours who lives in Oakland, and they were watching the Celtics game. So that’s a good opportunity as well. If you’re a huge sports fan, that’s another element of community. There’s no seats at the bar, but there are people yelling for their team to win.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2093\" data-end=\"2137\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2093\" data-end=\"2111\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Would you go back again?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2139\" data-end=\"2197\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2139\" data-end=\"2151\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>: Oh, absolutely. I would go back again. 100%.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2199\" data-end=\"2221\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2199\" data-end=\"2214\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>: Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2223\" data-end=\"2399\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2223\" data-end=\"2241\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Alright. If you would like to try Cato’s Ale House, it’s located on Piedmont Avenue in Oakland, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $25.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"2223\" data-end=\"2399\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"250\" data-end=\"269\">[music playing]\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong data-start=\"2223\" data-end=\"2241\">Leslie Sbrocco\u003c/strong>: Imani feels transported to Japan every time she steps into her\u003cbr>\nfavorite sushi bar. Featuring fish flown in daily, including a\u003cbr>\nmelt-on-your-tongue toro, it’s no wonder it’s become\u003cbr>\nher date night destination. Located in Berkeley, it’s Kiku Sushi.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"250\" data-end=\"269\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"250\" data-end=\"269\">[music playing]\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"271\" data-end=\"506\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"271\" data-end=\"293\">Sophia Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> Kiku Sushi is bringing two worlds together in one place — vegetarian and fish at the same time and same place and make them happy. We are immigrants from Mongolia. We work in Japanese restaurant at the beginning.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"508\" data-end=\"592\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"508\" data-end=\"527\">Jay Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> After I went to the school, I teach my sister how to make sushi.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"594\" data-end=\"662\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"594\" data-end=\"616\">Sophia Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> Then we decided us open the sushi restaurant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"664\" data-end=\"792\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"664\" data-end=\"683\">Jay Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> I like working at the sushi bar. I want to see people happy when they get the fishes. They want to watch me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"794\" data-end=\"916\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"794\" data-end=\"816\">Sophia Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> This is the fireman roll. So this has avocado on the bottom with the eggplant a little bit torched.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"918\" data-end=\"986\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"918\" data-end=\"937\">Jay Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> Good-quality fish comes from all over the world.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"988\" data-end=\"1177\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"988\" data-end=\"1010\">Sophia Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> Vegetables is endless vegetables we can use. On the menu, there is so many different things I love to eat. Always the sashimis, homemade black cod marinated. So good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1179\" data-end=\"1226\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1179\" data-end=\"1198\">Jay Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> Rice is the most important.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1228\" data-end=\"1556\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1228\" data-end=\"1250\">Sophia Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> We use short-grain sushi rice imported from Japan. We do have a special secret of making the sushi vinegars. The sushi rice, mixing is a very important part of it. When you’re mixing the rice, you don’t want to chop in through it. So that’s the reason the chef is mixing so that it doesn’t break the rice.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1558\" data-end=\"1792\">Don’t be surprised, every time you come, depending on the season, we make different kind of vegetarian dishes. One of my favorite is the seaweed salad. We use six different kinds of seaweed with the homemade sauce, which is very good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1794\" data-end=\"2002\">Making sushi, it is kind of art. Everybody has a different style, different imaginations to make the plate look amazing. I’m glad I learned it. I’m one of the woman chef in the Bay Area. I’m very proud of it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2004\" data-end=\"2032\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2004\" data-end=\"2014\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Chicken teriyaki.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2034\" data-end=\"2227\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2034\" data-end=\"2056\">Sophia Batsaikhan:\u003c/strong> People after leave my restaurant, we would like to know them to be fully satisfied. They will remember what delicious food they had. Ohh! Thank you. Thank you for coming.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"2034\" data-end=\"2227\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"250\" data-end=\"269\">[music playing]\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"101\" data-end=\"169\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"101\" data-end=\"120\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Okay, so this is a date-night destination place?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"171\" data-end=\"383\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"171\" data-end=\"187\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Yes, for sure. It’s a very small, very intimate restaurant. There’s wood paneling on the walls and on the ceiling. The lights are kind of integrated within that wood paneling. It feels very cozy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"385\" data-end=\"761\">I started with the seaweed salad. It’s a beautiful, like, array of colors. You have some red, some burgundy, some green, of course, and it’s topped with sesame seeds. It’s a little bland, I would say. And how I spice it up is adding a little soy sauce, and that just perks it right up. It’s just a perfect starter, kind of awakens your palate and gets you ready for the sushi.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"763\" data-end=\"939\">My go-to dish is the negi toro. I really like a fatty tuna. It is just very buttery, very soft, melts in your mouth, topped with scallions. And it’s just absolutely to die for.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"941\" data-end=\"1221\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"941\" data-end=\"957\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> Their fish was very fresh. I tried to get the negi toro. They were out of it, sadly, but I did get a salmon nigiri that was great, although they seared the salmon, which was really good. I normally prefer it raw, but I enjoyed it. It was great. It was very fatty.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1223\" data-end=\"1328\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1223\" data-end=\"1239\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it’s salmon with salmon roe on top, and it’s, again, buttery, melts in your mouth.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1330\" data-end=\"1561\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1330\" data-end=\"1346\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> And their nigiri are large, too. You get a big piece of fish. I had the escolar nigiri, which was amazing. The flavor of the fish was just so complex and fresh and perfect. And they put a little green onion on top.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1563\" data-end=\"1585\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1563\" data-end=\"1579\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1587\" data-end=\"1987\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1587\" data-end=\"1600\">Eddie Ng:\u003c/strong> My wife and I, we went for lunch. So what was really nice was that they had these different sets that you can pick from. So my wife got the sashimi lunch set, and there you can customize. If you didn’t want one fish, you could sub one out. So she had decided to get the chu-toro. She’s a big fan of fatty tuna. So everything that she got was really amazing. You could taste the quality.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"1989\" data-end=\"2315\">So for myself, I actually decided to go a different direction. I did their nigiri vegetarian set. And so each nigiri was a different type of vegetable. And it was really amazing how they were able to nuance flavors out of those vegetables. Like, there was eggplant that was really amazing. That was just something really cool.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2317\" data-end=\"2542\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2317\" data-end=\"2333\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> I tried the Kiku roll. And the Kiku roll was sensational. No wonder it’s their namesake because it had yams. It was very crunchy, very savory, deep fried as well. So it fills you up, and it’s just phenomenal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2544\" data-end=\"2829\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2544\" data-end=\"2560\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I had also off the vegetarian menu, the Fireman’s roll, which was, I thought, great. It had a spicy sauce and the eggplant was charred and smoky. The overall flavor was just this strong smoke profile, not like a sushi roll I’ve had anywhere before. It was tasty.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2831\" data-end=\"2934\">Their vegetarian options were great. They had a crispy rice with sweet potato puree that was fantastic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"2936\" data-end=\"3117\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2936\" data-end=\"2952\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> We’ve also had the crispy rice with sweet potato and it was delicious. Very crunchy. Kind of gets stuck in your teeth a little bit. Take your time. But very savory.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3119\" data-end=\"3141\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3119\" data-end=\"3129\">Woman:\u003c/strong> How was it?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3143\" data-end=\"3168\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3143\" data-end=\"3157\">Young man:\u003c/strong> Very good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3170\" data-end=\"3354\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3170\" data-end=\"3186\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> I ordered the crispy rice with avocado. And I think I prefer the sweet potato just because of the sweetness, the juxtaposition of the savory rice and the sweet potato.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3356\" data-end=\"3392\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3356\" data-end=\"3372\">Young woman:\u003c/strong> That’s really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3394\" data-end=\"3511\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3394\" data-end=\"3410\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> It just kind of has a nice savory flavor in your mouth. And for dessert, I had the strawberry mochi.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3513\" data-end=\"3538\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3513\" data-end=\"3521\">Man:\u003c/strong> Oh, that’s fire.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3540\" data-end=\"3749\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3540\" data-end=\"3556\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> The mochi is a kind of gummy texture. And then inside is strawberry ice cream. And it was just a nice, something sweet, something brief to have right after your dinner. I very much enjoyed it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3751\" data-end=\"3804\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3751\" data-end=\"3770\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And do you get anything to drink?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"3806\" data-end=\"4009\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3806\" data-end=\"3822\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> I usually get saké. This one was kind of milky. Very good creamy texture to it. And one of my favorite things about Kiku is that when you choose to order saké, you can choose your glass.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4011\" data-end=\"4032\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4011\" data-end=\"4019\">All:\u003c/strong> [exclaiming]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4034\" data-end=\"4252\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4034\" data-end=\"4050\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> So they come to you and they give you, like, a series of, like, ornate glasses. And it’s just kind of this customization, like this choice that you didn’t know that you needed. But it was nice to have.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4254\" data-end=\"4291\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4254\" data-end=\"4267\">Eddie Ng:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it’s pretty cool.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4293\" data-end=\"4359\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4293\" data-end=\"4309\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> I also had sake. I didn’t get to choose my glass.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4361\" data-end=\"4380\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4361\" data-end=\"4369\">All:\u003c/strong> [laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4382\" data-end=\"4406\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4382\" data-end=\"4398\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> I know.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4408\" data-end=\"4430\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4408\" data-end=\"4424\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Gasp!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4432\" data-end=\"4478\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4432\" data-end=\"4451\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You weren’t on date night.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4480\" data-end=\"4792\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4480\" data-end=\"4496\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> I guess not. Yeah. You know. But they did have these cool glasses that had a sort of thing in it that they could put ice in, so it kept it cold, but without it being in the saké. And they were pretty. But I could see that they had a lot of glasses around. So I guess, you know, one could choose.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4794\" data-end=\"4816\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4794\" data-end=\"4810\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4818\" data-end=\"4843\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4818\" data-end=\"4831\">Eddie Ng:\u003c/strong> Yeah, yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4845\" data-end=\"4898\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4845\" data-end=\"4861\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Well, let’s bring that up next time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4900\" data-end=\"4922\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4900\" data-end=\"4916\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4924\" data-end=\"4968\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4924\" data-end=\"4943\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You have to go together.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4970\" data-end=\"4995\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4970\" data-end=\"4986\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> Totally.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"4997\" data-end=\"5226\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4997\" data-end=\"5013\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Yeah. The service is also very cozy. Very, like, community oriented. I feel like the service was just checking in on you, making sure that you have everything and not overwhelming you with too many rules at once.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5228\" data-end=\"5280\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5228\" data-end=\"5247\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you feel that about service?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5282\" data-end=\"5600\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5282\" data-end=\"5295\">Eddie Ng:\u003c/strong> Oh, absolutely. You know, they were very attentive. They, you know, ask questions like, What were you interested in? They try to work with you, like with my wife, with the customization. I just thought they really wanted you to feel at home in their restaurant. And, you know, I think it goes a long way.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5602\" data-end=\"5670\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5602\" data-end=\"5621\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And sushi typically is a pricier meal, isn’t it?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5672\" data-end=\"5741\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5672\" data-end=\"5688\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> Yeah, usually. They’re pretty reasonable, I thought.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5743\" data-end=\"5943\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5743\" data-end=\"5759\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> This is very accessible. Yeah. And I think that aspect of like the vegetarian menu as well kind of contributes to that accessibility. But it is not like crazy price range I would say.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"5945\" data-end=\"6074\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5945\" data-end=\"5958\">Eddie Ng:\u003c/strong> But you know, I definitely want to go back for a date night and try the saké. That sounds like a really great time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6076\" data-end=\"6110\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6076\" data-end=\"6092\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Highly recommend.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6112\" data-end=\"6131\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6112\" data-end=\"6125\">Eddie Ng:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"6133\" data-end=\"6302\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6133\" data-end=\"6152\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, if you would like to try Kiku Sushi, it’s located on Gilman Street in Berkeley, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $35.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"161\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"104\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Looking for more Bay Area bites? You’ve just got to try.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"163\" data-end=\"184\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"163\" data-end=\"175\">Cecilia:\u003c/strong> [laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"186\" data-end=\"266\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"186\" data-end=\"205\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Check out \u003cem data-start=\"216\" data-end=\"234\">Cecilia Tries It\u003c/em> online at kqed.org/checkplease.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"268\" data-end=\"296\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"268\" data-end=\"280\">Cecilia:\u003c/strong> [chuckles] Mmm!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"298\" data-end=\"622\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"298\" data-end=\"317\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I have to thank my great guests on this week’s show — \u003cstrong data-start=\"372\" data-end=\"387\">Jason Stein\u003c/strong>, who raves about the retro burger at Cato’s Ale House in Oakland, \u003cstrong data-start=\"454\" data-end=\"466\">Eddie Ng\u003c/strong>, who has no problem sharing the mouthwatering morsels at Ethel’s Fancy in Palo Alto, and \u003cstrong data-start=\"556\" data-end=\"571\">Imani Isles\u003c/strong>, who loves sipping saké at Kiku Sushi in Berkeley.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"624\" data-end=\"801\">Join us next time when three more guests will recommend their favorite spots right here on \u003cem data-start=\"715\" data-end=\"740\">Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>. I’m Leslie Sbrocco and I’ll see you then. Cheers, everyone.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"803\" data-end=\"827\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"803\" data-end=\"819\">Jason Stein:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"829\" data-end=\"877\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"829\" data-end=\"848\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Was reaching for your glass.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"879\" data-end=\"903\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"879\" data-end=\"895\">Imani Isles:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"905\" data-end=\"921\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"905\" data-end=\"913\">All:\u003c/strong> [laugh]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"923\" data-end=\"950\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"923\" data-end=\"942\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"952\" data-end=\"967\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-start=\"969\" data-end=\"1519\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"969\" data-end=\"989\">Scott Nishiyama:\u003c/strong> One of the dishes that we’re most proud of is probably the milk bread. It started just from a regular Japanese milk bread, but we’ve added some twists to it. We use Rouge de Bordeaux flour that adds a delicious nuttiness and whole grain flavor to the bread. It also retains that nice fluffy texture. We pair it with a cultured butter that’s infused with Amazake, which is a Japanese rice drink. It comes out to the table nice and hot. The butter melts beautifully on it. And it flies out the door. We sell out almost every night.\u003c/p>\n\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "check-please-bay-area-reviews-gumbo-social-the-bungalow-kitchen-pomet",
"title": "Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Gumbo Social, The Bungalow Kitchen, Pomet",
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"headTitle": "Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Gumbo Social, The Bungalow Kitchen, Pomet | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/em>season 19, episode 16, airs Thursday, February 27, at 7:30 pm, on KQED 9. See other \u003ca href=\"http://www.kqed.org/tv/programs/index.jsp?pgmid=14084\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">television airtimes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">First up, \u003cstrong>Gumbo Social\u003c/strong> in San Francisco’s Bayview neighborhood brings soulful comfort food to the table with a creative, ever-changing menu. Crowd favorites include dirty gumbo fries loaded with bold flavors, their hearty and satisfying gumbo ya-ya, and scrumptious shrimp po’boys served with tangy coleslaw. Next, \u003cstrong>The Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/strong> by Michael Mina in Tiburon pairs stunning waterfront views with a decadent menu including oak-grilled branzino, lobster pot pie, and crème brûlée French toast that seamlessly complements the restaurant’s charming ambiance. Finally, \u003cstrong>Pomet\u003c/strong>, located on Oakland’s Piedmont Avenue, offers a fresh take on farm-to-table dining with inventive, seasonal offerings. Diners are treated to Hokkaido milk bread rolls, “ugly” mushroom-filled pasta, and char siu short rib, each dish crafted with local ingredients and infused with global inspiration.\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_23389\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-23389 size-medium\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Guests-800x533.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Guests-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Guests-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Guests-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Guests-768x512.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Guests-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Guests.png 1620w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco joins guests Sarah Oh, George Andrews and Leslie Griffin Robertson from KQED in San Francisco.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Get Restaurant Information:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.gumbosocial.com/\">\u003cstrong>Gumbo Social\u003c/strong> (San Francisco)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://bungalowkitchen.com/\">\u003cstrong>The Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/strong> (Tiburon)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://pomet-oakland.com/\">\u003cstrong>Pomet\u003c/strong> (Oakland)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_20123\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-20123\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2019/04/Leslie-Headshot-Smokey-copy-800x540.jpg\" alt=\"Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine\" width=\"800\" height=\"540\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine \u003ccite>(Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the \u003ca href=\"http://ww2.kqed.org/checkplease/host-biography/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">host\u003c/a> of \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-23390\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Wines-800x1067.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"1067\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Wines-800x1067.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Wines-1020x1360.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Wines-160x213.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Wines-768x1024.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Wines-1152x1536.png 1152w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Wines.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://villamariawines.com/\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003cb>Villa Maria 2024 “Private Bin” Sauvignon Blanc\u003c/b>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003cem>Marlborough, New Zealand $17\u003c/em>\u003cbr>\nCrack open a bottle of this youthfully fresh white and be transported to New Zealand. Sauvignon blanc — the famed grape of the island nation — expresses juicy citrus notes with a touch of herbal complexity in Villa Maria’s delicious “Private Bin” wine. Blending grapes from myriad vineyards stretching across the South Island’s Marlborough region, the “Private Bin” sauvignon blanc comes alive in the glass, overflowing with aromas of passionfruit and lemon-lime brightness. A vinous ray of sunshine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://pasqua.it/wines/11-minutes/\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003cstrong>Pasqua 2023 “11 Minutes” Rosé\u003c/strong>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003cem>Trevenezie IGT, Italy $20\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>Pasqua Wines is a historic Veronese family producer founded in 1925. This beautiful bottle of pink looks modern and classic with packaging that will impress. Yet it’s the wine inside that is the real star. Made with grapes such as corvina, syrah, and carmenère, the name “11 Minutes” refers to the amount of time the skins of the red grapes have in contact with the pressed grape juice, which imbues a hint of pink color and red berry character. Floral, juicy, and spicy, it’s a unique rosé to explore and enjoy all year long.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Episode Transcript\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp> \u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"701\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"125\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> American soul food in San Francisco…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"701\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"167\" data-end=\"196\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> They call you, and you just have to come.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"701\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"241\" data-end=\"260\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> …Bohemian brunch with a view in Tiburon.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"701\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"306\" data-end=\"325\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> You feel like you’ve left the spa and you’re on vacation.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"383\" data-end=\"386\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"386\" data-end=\"405\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> …and farm-to-table fare in Oakland.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"443\" data-end=\"446\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"446\" data-end=\"459\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> It is truly seasonal.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"481\" data-end=\"484\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"484\" data-end=\"503\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Just ahead on \u003cem data-start=\"518\" data-end=\"544\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em> Seems to me like you should be eating that with your hands.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"604\" data-end=\"607\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"607\" data-end=\"626\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I haven’t tried yet.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"647\" data-end=\"650\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"650\" data-end=\"669\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> [Laughs] No, no, no. [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"703\" data-end=\"990\">Hi, I’m Leslie Sbrocco. Welcome to \u003cem data-start=\"738\" data-end=\"764\">Check, Please! Bay Area,\u003c/em> the show where Bay Area residents review and talk about their favorite restaurants. Now, we have three guests, and each one recommends one of their favorite spots, and the other two go check them out to see what they think.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"992\" data-end=\"1576\">Joining me at the \u003cem data-start=\"1010\" data-end=\"1026\">Check, Please!\u003c/em> table today are program manager \u003cstrong data-start=\"1059\" data-end=\"1071\">Sarah Oh\u003c/strong>, business communications advisor \u003cstrong data-start=\"1105\" data-end=\"1133\">Leslie Griffin Robertson\u003c/strong>, and marketing strategist \u003cstrong data-start=\"1160\" data-end=\"1178\">George Andrews\u003c/strong>. Welcome, everyone. Are you excited to be here?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1226\" data-end=\"1229\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1229\" data-end=\"1248\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> So happy to be here.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1269\" data-end=\"1272\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1272\" data-end=\"1301\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> You bet. Yeah. Very excited.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1330\" data-end=\"1333\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1333\" data-end=\"1352\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Leslie is letting the good times roll with her pick. It’s a soul food spot featuring a rotating menu of Southern-style gumbo with a California twist. Located in San Francisco’s Bayview neighborhood, it’s \u003cstrong data-start=\"1557\" data-end=\"1573\">Gumbo Social\u003c/strong>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"1578\" data-end=\"1595\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"1597\" data-end=\"1760\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1597\" data-end=\"1605\">Man:\u003c/strong> I don’t think I’ve ever had gumbo like this before.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1657\" data-end=\"1660\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1660\" data-end=\"1670\">Woman:\u003c/strong> It is so good. My eyes are rolling to the back of my head. Oh!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1733\" data-end=\"1736\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1736\" data-end=\"1749\">Woman #2:\u003c/strong> So good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"1762\" data-end=\"1779\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"1781\" data-end=\"2122\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1781\" data-end=\"1798\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> I firmly believe that gumbo should be America’s national dish. It is a dish that really encompasses multiple cultures. You have the African, you have the Cajun and Creole. There’s a lot of French influence, a touch of Spanish as well. So you have multiple cultures kind of binding together to create this incredible dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"2124\" data-end=\"2456\">We’re here at 5176 3rd Street out in Bayview. I wanted to use Gumbo Social as an opportunity to bring folks to this neighborhood, to see a different part of San Francisco that they normally don’t see. It’s a place where I’m from. It’s a place that I think deserves to have light shined on it in regards from a culinary standpoint.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"2458\" data-end=\"3187\">I’m heavily opinionated when it comes to gumbo. There’s some dos and don’ts. I firmly believe that a gumbo should always have okra in it.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2595\" data-end=\"2598\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2598\" data-end=\"2611\">Woman #3:\u003c/strong> Got the chicken in there, the okra. Like, the long pieces, not the chunks.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2686\" data-end=\"2689\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2689\" data-end=\"2706\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> Sausage in there for sure.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2733\" data-end=\"2736\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2736\" data-end=\"2749\">Woman #4:\u003c/strong> This is amazing.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2766\" data-end=\"2769\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2769\" data-end=\"2786\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> We like to try to hit it middle of the road from the spice standpoint. We want to be able to tickle the palate a little bit but not be too spicy.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2932\" data-end=\"2935\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2935\" data-end=\"2948\">Woman #5:\u003c/strong> Out of 10, what do you score it? 10 out of 10?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2995\" data-end=\"2998\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2998\" data-end=\"3015\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> If you don’t want Mr. Gumbo to come to your house, please don’t put corn in your gumbo. It is against the law. Penal code 779825. I’ll come arrest you. Citizen’s arrest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3189\" data-end=\"3575\">One of the things we love to do at Gumbo Social is host a great party. And so we are bringing in folks to do a gumbo tasting.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3314\" data-end=\"3317\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3317\" data-end=\"3330\">Woman #6:\u003c/strong> I’m here to eat.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3347\" data-end=\"3350\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3350\" data-end=\"3363\">Woman #7:\u003c/strong> We have a pork gumbo with fried chicharrón on top.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3414\" data-end=\"3417\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3417\" data-end=\"3434\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> The new one, the gumbo z’herbes.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3467\" data-end=\"3470\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3470\" data-end=\"3478\">Man:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3484\" data-end=\"3487\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3487\" data-end=\"3504\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> And then folks actually get to vote on what their favorite gumbo is.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3577\" data-end=\"4069\">My mom, she’s the person that really taught me how to cook. She’s always kind of coming through, spot-checking the gumbo, making sure that the seasonings are on par.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3742\" data-end=\"3745\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3745\" data-end=\"3758\">Woman #3:\u003c/strong> Now, this is gumbo.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3778\" data-end=\"3781\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3781\" data-end=\"3798\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> And then just helping me push the boundaries of the food. One of the things that we focus on is being really versatile. So we do events, catering. Farmers markets are like a really great home base for us.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4003\" data-end=\"4006\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4006\" data-end=\"4017\">Man #2:\u003c/strong> Oh, yeah, so much.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4036\" data-end=\"4039\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4039\" data-end=\"4056\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> Thank you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4071\" data-end=\"4189\">One of my favorite pieces is people who haven’t had gumbo in a long time, taste it, and then it’s kind of that look.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4191\" data-end=\"4208\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4210\" data-end=\"4493\">And then when they go back in… And usually the pinkie’s out when they’re going in, and so then you know you got something.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4334\" data-end=\"4337\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4337\" data-end=\"4348\">Man #3:\u003c/strong> Mmm! Oh! Mm.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4361\" data-end=\"4364\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4364\" data-end=\"4381\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> My goal is to get a bowl of gumbo in every household in America. That’s my goal.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4462\" data-end=\"4465\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4465\" data-end=\"4478\">Woman #8:\u003c/strong> Get into it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4495\" data-end=\"6610\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4495\" data-end=\"4514\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, now, Leslie, gumbo is pretty specific. Are you a gumbo lover because of traveling? Or just that you love the flavor?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4635\" data-end=\"4638\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4638\" data-end=\"4667\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I love the flavors, I love spice, I love things that, at their very best, take a couple days to really come into themselves. I get the classic gumbo—chicken and sausage and the holy trinity, which is celery, onion, and bell pepper, that just makes it this incredibly dense, rich bed of flavor.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4961\" data-end=\"4964\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4964\" data-end=\"4983\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> The gumbo was so fantastic. Savory and rich and herbaceous. A lot of thyme in there. Very generous on the chicken and the sliced sausage. The only thing I was missing was a little bit more okra, but I would have it any day of the week.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5219\" data-end=\"5222\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5222\" data-end=\"5241\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now, are you an okra lover?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5269\" data-end=\"5272\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5272\" data-end=\"5285\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> I’m an okra lover. I didn’t have that thought though, when I had the gumbo. But I also loved it. It’s just spicy enough. And I loved the classic presentation of the rice. It was just, you know, like, very elegant, but no fuss. A mound of rice in the middle. I got the small and wished I had gotten a large.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5592\" data-end=\"5595\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5595\" data-end=\"5624\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> They sell it in a quart size, and you can take it home. And I will say it freezes beautifully as well. Like, if you can’t get to Gumbo Social for your gumbo, you can actually pack it up and have it later.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5829\" data-end=\"5832\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5832\" data-end=\"5851\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I wish it came in gallons.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5878\" data-end=\"5881\">[ Laughter ]\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5893\" data-end=\"5896\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5896\" data-end=\"5915\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It was that good.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5933\" data-end=\"5936\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5936\" data-end=\"5955\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> It really was.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5970\" data-end=\"5973\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5973\" data-end=\"6002\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> It really is. I usually get the shrimp po’boy on the side. That is just scrumptious. Very generous serving of shrimp. Delicious sauce. Comes on a nice soft roll. I’m a dunker, so kind of the perfect dunking situation with the gumbo. That may be heresy to some, I don’t know, but I think it’s delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6305\" data-end=\"6308\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6308\" data-end=\"6321\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> I had to get the hoecake…\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6349\" data-end=\"6352\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6352\" data-end=\"6371\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Oh, okay.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6381\" data-end=\"6384\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6384\" data-end=\"6397\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> …which was delicious to eat with the gumbo. I love anything that’s corn-based. It was a nice texture contrast. Usually I get a side like that and think I’ll just have a bite of it. I finished the whole thing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"60\" data-end=\"414\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"60\" data-end=\"79\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I had the vegan greens, which are both vegan and gluten-free, and it’s a really beautiful braise of kale, pinto beans and chickpeas, kidney beans, so you get a lot of different textures, as well as a lot of the spices that they have in the gumbo. But I wish it came in as large of a bowl as the gumbo. I could eat that all the time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"416\" data-end=\"3253\">So every once in a while I get an email from Gumbo Social. And this one was the “siren song of the dirty fries,” which is something that’s, I gather, not always on the menu. And, oh, my goodness, you guys, they’re really good fries smothered in a cheese situation that is more than just cheese. I think maybe the configuration of it is a little bit secret. And despite having consumed a bowl of gumbo, an entire shrimp po’boy, then out come the dirty fries, and my husband and I went at those too.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"913\" data-end=\"916\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"916\" data-end=\"935\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You didn’t happen to be there for that hat trick, did you?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"994\" data-end=\"997\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"997\" data-end=\"1016\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> No, no. I missed that.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1039\" data-end=\"1042\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1042\" data-end=\"1055\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> What makes them siren fries? Is there something spicy?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1110\" data-end=\"1113\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1113\" data-end=\"1142\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Just that they call you and you just have to come.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1193\" data-end=\"1196\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1196\" data-end=\"1209\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> Oh, I see.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1220\" data-end=\"1223\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1223\" data-end=\"1242\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> The siren song.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1258\" data-end=\"1261\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1261\" data-end=\"1290\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> The way they were described in the email was like, “Come to me…”\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1357\" data-end=\"1360\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1360\" data-end=\"1379\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Pull you down into the ocean.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1409\" data-end=\"1412\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1412\" data-end=\"1441\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Yeah, exactly. And my husband and I agreed that they were worth the drive.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1516\" data-end=\"1519\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1519\" data-end=\"1538\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And did you have any dessert?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1568\" data-end=\"1571\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1571\" data-end=\"1590\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I did take home a slice of lemon pound cake that was delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1654\" data-end=\"1657\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1657\" data-end=\"1676\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Okay, you looked at me so funny. You looked at me like, “I did it. Yes, I did it.”\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1759\" data-end=\"1762\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1762\" data-end=\"1781\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I did. I did. And it had a really delicious, intense lemon flavor. You know, great icing, not too sweet, but beautifully soft pound cake.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1919\" data-end=\"1922\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1922\" data-end=\"1951\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I have not ever had the pound cake, but I must put in a word on the untraditional dessert of the Brussels sprouts, which are crispy fried with some apple. Oh! These things are phenomenal. If you’re a Brussels sprouts for dessert kind of person, which I’m really not.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2218\" data-end=\"2221\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2221\" data-end=\"2240\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I can’t tell you that I know a lot of those people.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2292\" data-end=\"2295\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2295\" data-end=\"2324\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Yeah. Me neither, so… But they are highly recommended. Absolutely delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2403\" data-end=\"2406\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2406\" data-end=\"2425\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And this is a casual place, right?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2460\" data-end=\"2463\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2463\" data-end=\"2482\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Yeah, very casual, very comfortable. They had good music on.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2543\" data-end=\"2546\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2546\" data-end=\"2559\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> Great art on the walls too. There’s some really nice iconic pictures of jazz artists and historic figures.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2666\" data-end=\"2669\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2669\" data-end=\"2688\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So did you get good value out of this place?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2733\" data-end=\"2736\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2736\" data-end=\"2749\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> Absolutely. Talk about a substantial, hearty, satisfying meal that is not going to impact your wallet.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2852\" data-end=\"2855\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2855\" data-end=\"2874\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And you’re gonna go back, George, and bring home more?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2929\" data-end=\"2932\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2932\" data-end=\"2951\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I’m definitely going to hit up the farmers market. We’ll see, if I’m in the neighborhood again, though, I’m going to swing by.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3078\" data-end=\"3081\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3081\" data-end=\"3100\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Well, if you would like to try \u003cstrong data-start=\"3132\" data-end=\"3148\">Gumbo Social\u003c/strong>, it’s located on 3rd Street in San Francisco. The average tab per person without drinks is around $30.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3255\" data-end=\"3521\">George’s favorite brunch spot is all about location, location, location. He spent many a Sunday there, sipping Pimm’s cups, lounging on the patio, and soaking up the stellar bay views. Commanding a prime spot on the docks of Tiburon, it’s \u003cstrong data-start=\"3494\" data-end=\"3518\">The Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/strong>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3523\" data-end=\"3540\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3542\" data-end=\"3770\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3542\" data-end=\"3562\">Daniela Vergara:\u003c/strong> \u003cem data-start=\"3563\" data-end=\"3585\">The Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/em> by Michael Mina. We want to feel like a clubhouse, you know. We want the community to come over, relax with us, indulge in our coastal Californian cuisine and wonderful sips as well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3772\" data-end=\"3789\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3791\" data-end=\"4077\">Our brunch menu—it’s a two-course prix fixe. You have about 10 options for your appetizers and an equal amount for your entrées.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3919\" data-end=\"3922\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3922\" data-end=\"3932\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Mmm!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3937\" data-end=\"3940\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3940\" data-end=\"3960\">Daniela Vergara:\u003c/strong> We have an open-fire grill. It’s oak wood that we feed throughout the night to provide that flavor for our steaks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4079\" data-end=\"4096\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4098\" data-end=\"5057\">We have an array of seafood. We have tuna, sea bass, branzino. We fly in fish from Japan. Our sushi chef, \u003cstrong data-start=\"4204\" data-end=\"4217\">Chef Yama\u003c/strong>, will call up the market in Japan and see whatever he can get as fresh as possible and arrive here overnight.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4327\" data-end=\"4330\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4330\" data-end=\"4344\">Chef Yama:\u003c/strong> This rice I buy from Japan.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4372\" data-end=\"4375\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4375\" data-end=\"4395\">Daniela Vergara:\u003c/strong> The lobster pot pie—it’s a Chef Mina classic dish. A domed puff pastry, and then we’ll crack it tableside, place it on the bottom, and then rebuild that lobster for you. We love to do that extra detail. We want to show the guests what we do in the kitchen, to say this is what we have and why and the story. And it’s just beautiful. I would say like a symphony just all working together, you know.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4793\" data-end=\"4796\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4796\" data-end=\"4809\">Woman #2:\u003c/strong> Thank you so much.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4828\" data-end=\"4831\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4831\" data-end=\"4851\">Daniela Vergara:\u003c/strong> We want to create an atmosphere where it’s relaxing. You get to just take a quick ferry ride over. You get the breeze. You get the warmth. As foggy as it may be in the city, it’s always sunny in Tiburon.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"5059\" data-end=\"5076\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"5078\" data-end=\"7015\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5078\" data-end=\"5097\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now, George, you live in the city, right?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5139\" data-end=\"5142\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5142\" data-end=\"5161\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I do.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5167\" data-end=\"5170\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5170\" data-end=\"5189\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So you get foggy sometimes. And is that why you’re so drawn to sunny Tiburon?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5267\" data-end=\"5270\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5270\" data-end=\"5289\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> It is. It’s like a mini vacation. And that’s why it’s so perfect to go for brunch. You get into your nice big easy chair on the patio. Everything’s kind of these muted coral and sage-green tones, and you just feel like you’ve left the spa and you’re on vacation and you’re ready to have a cocktail. So the first thing that I get is the Pimm’s cup. I love something that’s herby, I love something that’s gin-based, a little fizzy. But, you know, it’s not too potent, so you can have a few and you’re just relaxing. It’s like time has stopped.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5831\" data-end=\"5834\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5834\" data-end=\"5853\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> All right, you got Pimm’s cup in hand. What is the first thing you order?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5927\" data-end=\"5930\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5930\" data-end=\"5949\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> The first thing that I like to order is the butter lettuce and hearts of palm salad. And it comes out on this big long tray, and you think that they’re bringing it to someone else because there’s no way this whole salad could be just for me. It’s velvety soft butter lettuce cups with Brokaw avocado and the sliced hearts of palm, segmented grapefruit. And it’s just a wonderfully refreshing way to start the meal.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6364\" data-end=\"6367\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6367\" data-end=\"6380\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> The theme for me at \u003cem data-start=\"6401\" data-end=\"6419\">Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/em> was, like, tableside appeal. Everything kind of has this big tableside presence.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6500\" data-end=\"6503\" data-is-only-node=\"\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6503\" data-end=\"6511\">Man:\u003c/strong> So we have the sashimi-grade ahi tuna. There’s a quail egg on top with Maldon sea salt.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6599\" data-end=\"6602\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6602\" data-end=\"6615\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> I had the tuna tartare to start, which is visually so lovely. You have the Asian pear, the mint. There’s some sesame oil on there, chilies, all kind of chopped in these cute little piles, and someone tosses it tableside for you.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6844\" data-end=\"6847\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6847\" data-end=\"6866\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It’s breakfast and a show.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6893\" data-end=\"6896\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6896\" data-end=\"6909\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> Breakfast and a show.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6931\" data-end=\"6934\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6934\" data-end=\"6942\">Man:\u003c/strong> And there we go. Michael Mina’s tuna tartare.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6988\" data-end=\"6991\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6991\" data-end=\"7002\">Man #2:\u003c/strong> Wonderful.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"60\" data-end=\"2403\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"60\" data-end=\"73\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> We went for the lobster pot pie, which, talk about tableside appeal. It comes out in this beautiful copper pot with, you know, the flaky crust on top. The meat was succulent and tasty. The vegetables, what I really appreciated, tasted really fresh, like someone had just chopped them and threw them in. A slight acidity would have been nice to kind of cut through the cream, but the sauce was really rich, and it was delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"501\" data-end=\"504\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"504\" data-end=\"523\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Right.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"530\" data-end=\"533\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"533\" data-end=\"562\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I had regrets. I saw it. We had already ordered, and then I saw that roll by, and I was like, “Oh, I missed a bet there,” because it truly is stunningly beautiful. But we did order an assortment of appetizers, and our very favorite one was the jalapeño lobster toasts.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"831\" data-end=\"834\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"834\" data-end=\"853\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Yes!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"858\" data-end=\"861\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"861\" data-end=\"890\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> They’re like a rolled-up kind of thing. It wasn’t—I was expecting something flat on a toast. And this was so much more than that and so much better than that. Delightful little bit of spice, but not too much. Just a really nice blend and balance.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1137\" data-end=\"1140\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1140\" data-end=\"1159\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And what other dishes did you have?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1195\" data-end=\"1198\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1198\" data-end=\"1227\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I had the eggs Benedict with smoked salmon. Also phenomenal. Standard Benedict in terms of English muffin and an egg and hollandaise sauce, but the addition of the smoked salmon was really nice, and it came with a side of crispy potatoes that was really, really good. I also had the steak frites, which is sort of a basic dish—it’s meat and potatoes—but this one was really special. It was a filet prepared absolutely perfectly, nice béarnaise sauce, good fries. We were super happy with it.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1719\" data-end=\"1722\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1722\" data-end=\"1741\" data-is-only-node=\"\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Where I’ve been going lately is to the oak-grilled branzino. And this one comes out in a beautiful stoneware bowl on a bed of orzo with little baby French lentils and a nice piquant tomato sauce. Beautiful piece of branzino with the skin still a little bit crisp. But the flesh is so tender, and it’s just a dream to eat.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2063\" data-end=\"2066\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2066\" data-end=\"2079\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> I think the tip is, at \u003cem data-start=\"2103\" data-end=\"2121\">Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/em>, you go and you see everything…\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2155\" data-end=\"2158\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2158\" data-end=\"2187\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Watch.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2194\" data-end=\"2197\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2197\" data-end=\"2210\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> …and then you go back a second time.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2249\" data-end=\"2252\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2252\" data-end=\"2281\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Yep.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2286\" data-end=\"2289\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2289\" data-end=\"2302\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> We were tempted by the oyster shooters that were going by. Again, just, you know, couldn’t say no.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"2405\" data-end=\"2419\">[ Laughter ]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"2421\" data-end=\"3926\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2421\" data-end=\"2429\">Man:\u003c/strong> This is the way you do it.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2456\" data-end=\"2459\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2459\" data-end=\"2469\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Here we go. Whoo-hoo!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2491\" data-end=\"2494\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2494\" data-end=\"2507\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> And I also had a Bloody Mary, which had the same kind of tomato-based spicy mix that was part of the oyster shooter.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2624\" data-end=\"2627\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2627\" data-end=\"2656\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> For dessert, I had the espresso martini, which I cannot recommend highly enough. Not groundbreaking in terms of, like, special adds or anything, but in terms of just being well prepared, it was perfection.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2862\" data-end=\"2865\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2865\" data-end=\"2878\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> We shared the crème brûlée French toast, which to me tasted like dessert. It had the sweet inside. I didn’t get too much of a crème brûlée taste, but it was still delicious and sweet and decadent.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3075\" data-end=\"3078\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3078\" data-end=\"3097\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Absolutely. And how was the service?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3134\" data-end=\"3137\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3137\" data-end=\"3166\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Oh, the service was spectacular. Like you said, there was so much tableside action, and they were very, very attentive. Overall, yeah, no complaints on service at all. It was really nicely done.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3361\" data-end=\"3364\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3364\" data-end=\"3383\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And you feel like this is an every Sunday if you can.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3437\" data-end=\"3440\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3440\" data-end=\"3459\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I don’t go every Sunday, although I wish that I could. But, yeah, it’s more of like a once-a-month place, you know, when the fog is getting me down. Just hop across the bridge and, you know, have—\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3656\" data-end=\"3659\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3659\" data-end=\"3678\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And treat yourself.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3698\" data-end=\"3701\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3701\" data-end=\"3720\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Yeah, exactly.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3735\" data-end=\"3738\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3738\" data-end=\"3757\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> All right, well, if you would like to try \u003cem data-start=\"3800\" data-end=\"3822\">The Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/em>, it’s located on Main Street in Tiburon. And the average tab per person without drinks is around $85.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3928\" data-end=\"4182\">Sarah’s favorite restaurant offers the quintessential farm-to-table experience. The new California menu is driven by whatever’s in season at the owner’s orchards along with other family-owned farms. Located on Oakland’s Piedmont Avenue, it’s \u003cstrong data-start=\"4170\" data-end=\"4179\">Pomet\u003c/strong>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4184\" data-end=\"4201\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4203\" data-end=\"4642\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4203\" data-end=\"4221\">Aomboon Deasy:\u003c/strong> Ooh, now the best part, right? \u003cem data-start=\"4253\" data-end=\"4260\">Pomet\u003c/em> is the truest definition of “farm to table” when it comes to California cuisine. We have access to some of the best ingredients and some of the most unique flavors. A mustard-miso dressing, avocados. I chose the name \u003cem data-start=\"4478\" data-end=\"4485\">Pomet\u003c/em> because it means “orchard” in an old Roman language. It also stems from the word of “pomology,” which is the study and cultivation of fruit and nut trees.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4644\" data-end=\"4943\">\u003cem data-start=\"4644\" data-end=\"4651\">Pomet\u003c/em> wouldn’t be here without Kalayada and James, my parents, who started the farm \u003cstrong data-start=\"4730\" data-end=\"4748\">K & J Orchards\u003c/strong>. Nectarines, peaches, cherries, persimmons. We get to highlight what we grow, and the kitchen gets to make even look more beautiful and taste even better than it really is in its natural form.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4945\" data-end=\"4962\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4964\" data-end=\"5566\">The recipes are a culmination of the collaboration of the chef and the kitchen staff and also a little bit of input from me.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5088\" data-end=\"5091\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5091\" data-end=\"5099\">Man:\u003c/strong> That is really good.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5120\" data-end=\"5123\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5123\" data-end=\"5141\">Aomboon Deasy:\u003c/strong> They are dishes that we remember growing up and what our parents, our grandparents used to cook, and influence of many cultures. The wood that we use to cook our food here is mostly all fruit wood. It brings a little bit of that earthiness to each of the plates. In a way, the tree is the full circle of life. We harvest the fruit from it, but then we use the rest of it to cook the food that is presented here at \u003cem data-start=\"5556\" data-end=\"5563\">Pomet\u003c/em>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"5568\" data-end=\"5965\">One of the things that \u003cem data-start=\"5591\" data-end=\"5598\">Pomet\u003c/em> does is, at the end of every meal, they get to have a piece of fruit for them to experience like they just walked out of the orchard, to really enjoy as their last bite as they say thank you, and we say thank you to them. Their faces when they try something and they’re just mesmerized by the taste and the freshness, brings me joy that we’ve done something right.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"5967\" data-end=\"7197\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5967\" data-end=\"5986\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> All right, Sarah, you know the phrase “farm to table” is so overused sometimes. I mean, this really is about “orchard to table.” This is—this is the real deal, isn’t it?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6156\" data-end=\"6159\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6159\" data-end=\"6172\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> That’s the perfect way of putting it. When you look at the menu, what I love is they’ll feature the farms’ names. It’s something that it’s so subtle and small, but it makes a really big difference, I think, in understanding where the food comes from.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6423\" data-end=\"6426\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6426\" data-end=\"6445\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Right.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6452\" data-end=\"6455\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6455\" data-end=\"6468\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> I always start with the seasonal salad. It is truly seasonal, so it will depend on what fruits are in season. I went recently and I got little gem lettuces with peaches and just a really light vinaigrette that doesn’t overpower the fruit or the lettuces. You can even taste the sweetness of the lettuce.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6772\" data-end=\"6775\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6775\" data-end=\"6794\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> One of the best starters for me was the smashed cucumber salad. And the cucumbers are all sliced in different directions, so you kind of get some different textures, right? But they’re sitting in a soy milk and sesame broth, and it’s all topped with a little bit of chili oil. So I found myself trying to push away my tablemates.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"60\" data-end=\"5624\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"60\" data-end=\"79\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Right. You wanted all the cucumbers to yourself.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"128\" data-end=\"131\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"131\" data-end=\"150\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I wanted them all to myself.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"179\" data-end=\"182\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"182\" data-end=\"201\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> [Laughs] What about you, Leslie?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"234\" data-end=\"237\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"237\" data-end=\"266\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Every single dish had something jazzy going on, something creative. We had the crispy duck appetizer, and we also had the duck entrée. They were very different. The appetizer was kind of a little explosion of flavors. We’re kind of like knocking each other’s forks out of the way.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"547\" data-end=\"550\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"550\" data-end=\"569\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> So we also had the duck appetizer, and it came with a crisp little apple slaw with it. And the sauce was kind of a pomegranate and gochujang glaze. Perfectly crisp. My tablemate, other than myself and my fiancé, we were a table of three, is vegetarian, so I only had to share with one person.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"862\" data-end=\"865\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"865\" data-end=\"884\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> [Laughs]\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"893\" data-end=\"896\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"896\" data-end=\"915\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I was also celebrating my birthday, so I got to—yeah, I got to kind of pull rank a little bit on whichever dishes that I wanted.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1044\" data-end=\"1047\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1047\" data-end=\"1060\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> This is more of a side, but I love the rolls. They have these Hokkaido milk bread rolls. So fluffy. Nice chew when you bite into it, and they serve it with this incredible butter. One time I finished the rolls and there was leftover butter and I asked the waiter if I could take the butter home, it was that good. It’s very velvety and soft, and it’s great for sopping up those juices from the cucumber or other appetizers.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1484\" data-end=\"1487\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1487\" data-end=\"1506\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> We did all starters, actually. So the graffiti eggplant dip was so fabulous. Perfectly smooth, rich, kind of like a mapo mushroom sauce over the top. A wonderful cool cream on the side, with semolina crackers, which were kind of like big, long shards—looked like broken glass but made of semolina. We were all fighting over that one as well.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1848\" data-end=\"1851\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1851\" data-end=\"1870\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It was a battle, I’m guessing.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1901\" data-end=\"1904\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1904\" data-end=\"1933\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> It was perfection. Every single mouthful at that place, no matter what we ordered, was outstanding.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2033\" data-end=\"2036\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2036\" data-end=\"2049\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> I forget that it’s a starter. I always think of it as a main dish because it’s so substantial.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2144\" data-end=\"2147\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2147\" data-end=\"2166\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Another star for us was the ugly mushroom pasta. A symphony of mushrooms, right?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2247\" data-end=\"2250\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2250\" data-end=\"2269\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And all ugly.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2283\" data-end=\"2286\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2286\" data-end=\"2305\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Well, I would say beautiful.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2334\" data-end=\"2337\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2337\" data-end=\"2366\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I thought it was gorgeous.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2393\" data-end=\"2396\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2396\" data-end=\"2409\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> Spectacular, though.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2430\" data-end=\"2433\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2433\" data-end=\"2452\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> And then once you kind of get below that layer, you have these little boats of pasta filled with even more mushroom, luscious sauce underneath. It was a dream.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2612\" data-end=\"2615\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2615\" data-end=\"2634\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And you’re agreeing.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2655\" data-end=\"2658\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2658\" data-end=\"2687\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Oh, that’s the dish that we will all really remember. Everything at this restaurant was special. We had the char siu pork, which was a pork belly. This was like silk in your mouth. Beautifully prepared, just the right amount of seasoning. And it came with this hot mustard, which was delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2982\" data-end=\"2985\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2985\" data-end=\"2998\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> I had the salmon. The quality of the salmon is such that all they did was serve it with some stuffed peppers. Very fresh. And it was the perfect pairing of the sweetness from the peppers with the richness of the salmon. It’s super simple. Just a great fish.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3256\" data-end=\"3259\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3259\" data-end=\"3278\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And did you have anything to drink with this?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3324\" data-end=\"3327\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3327\" data-end=\"3356\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I did. I had the housemade rose geranium spritzer. I’m an herb gardener myself, so of course I had to try that, and it was perfect. Like, it did not beat you over the head with rose geranium. You had to get about halfway down the spritzer in order to get it, and then when it came, it was perfect.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3654\" data-end=\"3657\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3657\" data-end=\"3676\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Oh, nice.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3686\" data-end=\"3689\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3689\" data-end=\"3708\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Well, is it too early to talk about dessert?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3753\" data-end=\"3756\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3756\" data-end=\"3775\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It never is. No.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3792\" data-end=\"3795\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3795\" data-end=\"3814\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> So if I could go back and just have this peach galette, I would, and it would be the only thing that I ate for the rest of my life. It was a beautiful mound of peaches sitting atop a very crisp puff pastry, beautifully pleated and studded with sanding sugar so it’s extra crisp. And then sitting above is the real star that makes it so amazing, which is the yogurt semifreddo. And as soon as it touches your tongue, it just dissipates completely. But it brought it all together.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4293\" data-end=\"4296\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4296\" data-end=\"4325\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I got to put in a word for the chocolate cake. OMG, you guys. Texturally, it was almost like a cross between pudding and cake. Not too sweet. Perfectly balanced flavors and five people going at it with spoons.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4535\" data-end=\"4538\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4538\" data-end=\"4557\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> [Laughs]\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4566\" data-end=\"4569\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4569\" data-end=\"4598\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> It was—it was perfection.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4624\" data-end=\"4627\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4627\" data-end=\"4646\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And how was the service?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4671\" data-end=\"4674\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4674\" data-end=\"4703\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I can’t put enough emphasis on the service, too, because we were seated in the outside area. So there were heaters to make sure we were warm. And sometimes when you get seated outside, you get forgotten a little bit. Not at this place.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4939\" data-end=\"4942\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4942\" data-end=\"4961\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You agree?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4972\" data-end=\"4975\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4975\" data-end=\"4994\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I definitely agree. I will be going back next year for my birthday and probably a number of times in between.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5104\" data-end=\"5107\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5107\" data-end=\"5136\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> My husband has already asked for it for his birthday next year, so it’s gonna become a birthday destination.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5245\" data-end=\"5248\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5248\" data-end=\"5267\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I would say that’s high praise.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5299\" data-end=\"5302\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5302\" data-end=\"5315\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> That’s what I like. You know, you can go for your birthday, you can go for a Friday night meal. And it really does have this cozy, inviting feel.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5461\" data-end=\"5464\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5464\" data-end=\"5483\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> If you would like to try \u003cem data-start=\"5509\" data-end=\"5516\">Pomet\u003c/em>, it’s located on Piedmont Avenue in Oakland, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $80.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"5626\" data-end=\"5744\">Looking for more Bay Area bites you’ve just got to try? Check out \u003cem data-start=\"5692\" data-end=\"5710\">Cecilia Tries It\u003c/em> online at kqed.org/checkplease.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"5746\" data-end=\"6081\">I have to thank my incredibly articulate guests on this week’s show—Sarah Oh, who appreciates the farm-driven menu at \u003cem data-start=\"5864\" data-end=\"5871\">Pomet\u003c/em> in Oakland; Leslie Griffin Robertson, who always takes home an extra bowl from \u003cem data-start=\"5951\" data-end=\"5965\">Gumbo Social\u003c/em> in San Francisco; and George Andrews, who pairs his branzino with bay views at \u003cem data-start=\"6045\" data-end=\"6067\">The Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/em> in Tiburon.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"6083\" data-end=\"6427\">Join us next time when three more guests will recommend their favorite spots right here on \u003cem data-start=\"6174\" data-end=\"6200\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em> I’m Leslie Sbrocco, and I’ll see you then. Cheers. And cheers to you.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6270\" data-end=\"6273\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6273\" data-end=\"6286\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6294\" data-end=\"6297\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6297\" data-end=\"6316\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6324\" data-end=\"6327\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6327\" data-end=\"6346\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you have fun?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6364\" data-end=\"6367\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6367\" data-end=\"6386\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6392\" data-end=\"6395\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6395\" data-end=\"6414\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Yes! Whee!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"6429\" data-end=\"6457\">[Indistinct conversations]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"6459\" data-end=\"6956\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6459\" data-end=\"6476\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> Me and gumbo are in a heavy marriage together. Her and I, we’ve been seeing each other for quite some time. [Laughs] The social piece I thought was really important because typically when you have gumbo, you’re having it with people you love and care about. So if you’re having a tough day, the gumbo should ease the tension of the conversation. I’ve never seen anyone have a fight when a bowl of gumbo is present. Only rough argument’s when, who’s gonna get the last crab leg?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"6958\" data-end=\"6972\">[ Laughter ]\u003c/p>\n\n",
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"title": "Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Gumbo Social, The Bungalow Kitchen, Pomet | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/em>season 19, episode 16, airs Thursday, February 27, at 7:30 pm, on KQED 9. See other \u003ca href=\"http://www.kqed.org/tv/programs/index.jsp?pgmid=14084\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">television airtimes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">First up, \u003cstrong>Gumbo Social\u003c/strong> in San Francisco’s Bayview neighborhood brings soulful comfort food to the table with a creative, ever-changing menu. Crowd favorites include dirty gumbo fries loaded with bold flavors, their hearty and satisfying gumbo ya-ya, and scrumptious shrimp po’boys served with tangy coleslaw. Next, \u003cstrong>The Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/strong> by Michael Mina in Tiburon pairs stunning waterfront views with a decadent menu including oak-grilled branzino, lobster pot pie, and crème brûlée French toast that seamlessly complements the restaurant’s charming ambiance. Finally, \u003cstrong>Pomet\u003c/strong>, located on Oakland’s Piedmont Avenue, offers a fresh take on farm-to-table dining with inventive, seasonal offerings. Diners are treated to Hokkaido milk bread rolls, “ugly” mushroom-filled pasta, and char siu short rib, each dish crafted with local ingredients and infused with global inspiration.\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_23389\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-23389 size-medium\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Guests-800x533.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Guests-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Guests-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Guests-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Guests-768x512.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Guests-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Guests.png 1620w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco joins guests Sarah Oh, George Andrews and Leslie Griffin Robertson from KQED in San Francisco.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Get Restaurant Information:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.gumbosocial.com/\">\u003cstrong>Gumbo Social\u003c/strong> (San Francisco)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://bungalowkitchen.com/\">\u003cstrong>The Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/strong> (Tiburon)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://pomet-oakland.com/\">\u003cstrong>Pomet\u003c/strong> (Oakland)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_20123\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-20123\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2019/04/Leslie-Headshot-Smokey-copy-800x540.jpg\" alt=\"Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine\" width=\"800\" height=\"540\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine \u003ccite>(Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the \u003ca href=\"http://ww2.kqed.org/checkplease/host-biography/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">host\u003c/a> of \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-23390\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Wines-800x1067.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"1067\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Wines-800x1067.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Wines-1020x1360.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Wines-160x213.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Wines-768x1024.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Wines-1152x1536.png 1152w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/1916_Wines.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://villamariawines.com/\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003cb>Villa Maria 2024 “Private Bin” Sauvignon Blanc\u003c/b>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003cem>Marlborough, New Zealand $17\u003c/em>\u003cbr>\nCrack open a bottle of this youthfully fresh white and be transported to New Zealand. Sauvignon blanc — the famed grape of the island nation — expresses juicy citrus notes with a touch of herbal complexity in Villa Maria’s delicious “Private Bin” wine. Blending grapes from myriad vineyards stretching across the South Island’s Marlborough region, the “Private Bin” sauvignon blanc comes alive in the glass, overflowing with aromas of passionfruit and lemon-lime brightness. A vinous ray of sunshine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://pasqua.it/wines/11-minutes/\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003cstrong>Pasqua 2023 “11 Minutes” Rosé\u003c/strong>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003cem>Trevenezie IGT, Italy $20\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>Pasqua Wines is a historic Veronese family producer founded in 1925. This beautiful bottle of pink looks modern and classic with packaging that will impress. Yet it’s the wine inside that is the real star. Made with grapes such as corvina, syrah, and carmenère, the name “11 Minutes” refers to the amount of time the skins of the red grapes have in contact with the pressed grape juice, which imbues a hint of pink color and red berry character. Floral, juicy, and spicy, it’s a unique rosé to explore and enjoy all year long.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Episode Transcript\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp> \u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"701\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"125\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> American soul food in San Francisco…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"701\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"167\" data-end=\"196\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> They call you, and you just have to come.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"701\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"241\" data-end=\"260\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> …Bohemian brunch with a view in Tiburon.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"701\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"306\" data-end=\"325\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> You feel like you’ve left the spa and you’re on vacation.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"383\" data-end=\"386\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"386\" data-end=\"405\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> …and farm-to-table fare in Oakland.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"443\" data-end=\"446\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"446\" data-end=\"459\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> It is truly seasonal.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"481\" data-end=\"484\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"484\" data-end=\"503\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Just ahead on \u003cem data-start=\"518\" data-end=\"544\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em> Seems to me like you should be eating that with your hands.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"604\" data-end=\"607\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"607\" data-end=\"626\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I haven’t tried yet.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"647\" data-end=\"650\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"650\" data-end=\"669\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> [Laughs] No, no, no. [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"703\" data-end=\"990\">Hi, I’m Leslie Sbrocco. Welcome to \u003cem data-start=\"738\" data-end=\"764\">Check, Please! Bay Area,\u003c/em> the show where Bay Area residents review and talk about their favorite restaurants. Now, we have three guests, and each one recommends one of their favorite spots, and the other two go check them out to see what they think.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"992\" data-end=\"1576\">Joining me at the \u003cem data-start=\"1010\" data-end=\"1026\">Check, Please!\u003c/em> table today are program manager \u003cstrong data-start=\"1059\" data-end=\"1071\">Sarah Oh\u003c/strong>, business communications advisor \u003cstrong data-start=\"1105\" data-end=\"1133\">Leslie Griffin Robertson\u003c/strong>, and marketing strategist \u003cstrong data-start=\"1160\" data-end=\"1178\">George Andrews\u003c/strong>. Welcome, everyone. Are you excited to be here?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1226\" data-end=\"1229\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1229\" data-end=\"1248\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> So happy to be here.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1269\" data-end=\"1272\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1272\" data-end=\"1301\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> You bet. Yeah. Very excited.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1330\" data-end=\"1333\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1333\" data-end=\"1352\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Leslie is letting the good times roll with her pick. It’s a soul food spot featuring a rotating menu of Southern-style gumbo with a California twist. Located in San Francisco’s Bayview neighborhood, it’s \u003cstrong data-start=\"1557\" data-end=\"1573\">Gumbo Social\u003c/strong>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"1578\" data-end=\"1595\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"1597\" data-end=\"1760\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1597\" data-end=\"1605\">Man:\u003c/strong> I don’t think I’ve ever had gumbo like this before.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1657\" data-end=\"1660\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1660\" data-end=\"1670\">Woman:\u003c/strong> It is so good. My eyes are rolling to the back of my head. Oh!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1733\" data-end=\"1736\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1736\" data-end=\"1749\">Woman #2:\u003c/strong> So good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"1762\" data-end=\"1779\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"1781\" data-end=\"2122\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1781\" data-end=\"1798\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> I firmly believe that gumbo should be America’s national dish. It is a dish that really encompasses multiple cultures. You have the African, you have the Cajun and Creole. There’s a lot of French influence, a touch of Spanish as well. So you have multiple cultures kind of binding together to create this incredible dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"2124\" data-end=\"2456\">We’re here at 5176 3rd Street out in Bayview. I wanted to use Gumbo Social as an opportunity to bring folks to this neighborhood, to see a different part of San Francisco that they normally don’t see. It’s a place where I’m from. It’s a place that I think deserves to have light shined on it in regards from a culinary standpoint.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"2458\" data-end=\"3187\">I’m heavily opinionated when it comes to gumbo. There’s some dos and don’ts. I firmly believe that a gumbo should always have okra in it.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2595\" data-end=\"2598\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2598\" data-end=\"2611\">Woman #3:\u003c/strong> Got the chicken in there, the okra. Like, the long pieces, not the chunks.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2686\" data-end=\"2689\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2689\" data-end=\"2706\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> Sausage in there for sure.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2733\" data-end=\"2736\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2736\" data-end=\"2749\">Woman #4:\u003c/strong> This is amazing.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2766\" data-end=\"2769\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2769\" data-end=\"2786\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> We like to try to hit it middle of the road from the spice standpoint. We want to be able to tickle the palate a little bit but not be too spicy.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2932\" data-end=\"2935\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2935\" data-end=\"2948\">Woman #5:\u003c/strong> Out of 10, what do you score it? 10 out of 10?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2995\" data-end=\"2998\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2998\" data-end=\"3015\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> If you don’t want Mr. Gumbo to come to your house, please don’t put corn in your gumbo. It is against the law. Penal code 779825. I’ll come arrest you. Citizen’s arrest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3189\" data-end=\"3575\">One of the things we love to do at Gumbo Social is host a great party. And so we are bringing in folks to do a gumbo tasting.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3314\" data-end=\"3317\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3317\" data-end=\"3330\">Woman #6:\u003c/strong> I’m here to eat.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3347\" data-end=\"3350\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3350\" data-end=\"3363\">Woman #7:\u003c/strong> We have a pork gumbo with fried chicharrón on top.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3414\" data-end=\"3417\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3417\" data-end=\"3434\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> The new one, the gumbo z’herbes.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3467\" data-end=\"3470\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3470\" data-end=\"3478\">Man:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3484\" data-end=\"3487\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3487\" data-end=\"3504\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> And then folks actually get to vote on what their favorite gumbo is.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3577\" data-end=\"4069\">My mom, she’s the person that really taught me how to cook. She’s always kind of coming through, spot-checking the gumbo, making sure that the seasonings are on par.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3742\" data-end=\"3745\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3745\" data-end=\"3758\">Woman #3:\u003c/strong> Now, this is gumbo.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3778\" data-end=\"3781\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3781\" data-end=\"3798\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> And then just helping me push the boundaries of the food. One of the things that we focus on is being really versatile. So we do events, catering. Farmers markets are like a really great home base for us.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4003\" data-end=\"4006\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4006\" data-end=\"4017\">Man #2:\u003c/strong> Oh, yeah, so much.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4036\" data-end=\"4039\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4039\" data-end=\"4056\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> Thank you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4071\" data-end=\"4189\">One of my favorite pieces is people who haven’t had gumbo in a long time, taste it, and then it’s kind of that look.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4191\" data-end=\"4208\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4210\" data-end=\"4493\">And then when they go back in… And usually the pinkie’s out when they’re going in, and so then you know you got something.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4334\" data-end=\"4337\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4337\" data-end=\"4348\">Man #3:\u003c/strong> Mmm! Oh! Mm.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4361\" data-end=\"4364\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4364\" data-end=\"4381\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> My goal is to get a bowl of gumbo in every household in America. That’s my goal.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4462\" data-end=\"4465\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4465\" data-end=\"4478\">Woman #8:\u003c/strong> Get into it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4495\" data-end=\"6610\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4495\" data-end=\"4514\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So, now, Leslie, gumbo is pretty specific. Are you a gumbo lover because of traveling? Or just that you love the flavor?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4635\" data-end=\"4638\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4638\" data-end=\"4667\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I love the flavors, I love spice, I love things that, at their very best, take a couple days to really come into themselves. I get the classic gumbo—chicken and sausage and the holy trinity, which is celery, onion, and bell pepper, that just makes it this incredibly dense, rich bed of flavor.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4961\" data-end=\"4964\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4964\" data-end=\"4983\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> The gumbo was so fantastic. Savory and rich and herbaceous. A lot of thyme in there. Very generous on the chicken and the sliced sausage. The only thing I was missing was a little bit more okra, but I would have it any day of the week.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5219\" data-end=\"5222\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5222\" data-end=\"5241\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now, are you an okra lover?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5269\" data-end=\"5272\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5272\" data-end=\"5285\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> I’m an okra lover. I didn’t have that thought though, when I had the gumbo. But I also loved it. It’s just spicy enough. And I loved the classic presentation of the rice. It was just, you know, like, very elegant, but no fuss. A mound of rice in the middle. I got the small and wished I had gotten a large.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5592\" data-end=\"5595\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5595\" data-end=\"5624\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> They sell it in a quart size, and you can take it home. And I will say it freezes beautifully as well. Like, if you can’t get to Gumbo Social for your gumbo, you can actually pack it up and have it later.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5829\" data-end=\"5832\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5832\" data-end=\"5851\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I wish it came in gallons.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5878\" data-end=\"5881\">[ Laughter ]\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5893\" data-end=\"5896\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5896\" data-end=\"5915\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It was that good.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5933\" data-end=\"5936\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5936\" data-end=\"5955\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> It really was.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5970\" data-end=\"5973\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5973\" data-end=\"6002\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> It really is. I usually get the shrimp po’boy on the side. That is just scrumptious. Very generous serving of shrimp. Delicious sauce. Comes on a nice soft roll. I’m a dunker, so kind of the perfect dunking situation with the gumbo. That may be heresy to some, I don’t know, but I think it’s delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6305\" data-end=\"6308\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6308\" data-end=\"6321\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> I had to get the hoecake…\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6349\" data-end=\"6352\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6352\" data-end=\"6371\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Oh, okay.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6381\" data-end=\"6384\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6384\" data-end=\"6397\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> …which was delicious to eat with the gumbo. I love anything that’s corn-based. It was a nice texture contrast. Usually I get a side like that and think I’ll just have a bite of it. I finished the whole thing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"60\" data-end=\"414\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"60\" data-end=\"79\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I had the vegan greens, which are both vegan and gluten-free, and it’s a really beautiful braise of kale, pinto beans and chickpeas, kidney beans, so you get a lot of different textures, as well as a lot of the spices that they have in the gumbo. But I wish it came in as large of a bowl as the gumbo. I could eat that all the time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"416\" data-end=\"3253\">So every once in a while I get an email from Gumbo Social. And this one was the “siren song of the dirty fries,” which is something that’s, I gather, not always on the menu. And, oh, my goodness, you guys, they’re really good fries smothered in a cheese situation that is more than just cheese. I think maybe the configuration of it is a little bit secret. And despite having consumed a bowl of gumbo, an entire shrimp po’boy, then out come the dirty fries, and my husband and I went at those too.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"913\" data-end=\"916\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"916\" data-end=\"935\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You didn’t happen to be there for that hat trick, did you?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"994\" data-end=\"997\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"997\" data-end=\"1016\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> No, no. I missed that.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1039\" data-end=\"1042\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1042\" data-end=\"1055\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> What makes them siren fries? Is there something spicy?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1110\" data-end=\"1113\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1113\" data-end=\"1142\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Just that they call you and you just have to come.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1193\" data-end=\"1196\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1196\" data-end=\"1209\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> Oh, I see.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1220\" data-end=\"1223\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1223\" data-end=\"1242\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> The siren song.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1258\" data-end=\"1261\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1261\" data-end=\"1290\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> The way they were described in the email was like, “Come to me…”\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1357\" data-end=\"1360\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1360\" data-end=\"1379\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Pull you down into the ocean.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1409\" data-end=\"1412\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1412\" data-end=\"1441\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Yeah, exactly. And my husband and I agreed that they were worth the drive.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1516\" data-end=\"1519\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1519\" data-end=\"1538\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And did you have any dessert?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1568\" data-end=\"1571\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1571\" data-end=\"1590\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I did take home a slice of lemon pound cake that was delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1654\" data-end=\"1657\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1657\" data-end=\"1676\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Okay, you looked at me so funny. You looked at me like, “I did it. Yes, I did it.”\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1759\" data-end=\"1762\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1762\" data-end=\"1781\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I did. I did. And it had a really delicious, intense lemon flavor. You know, great icing, not too sweet, but beautifully soft pound cake.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1919\" data-end=\"1922\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1922\" data-end=\"1951\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I have not ever had the pound cake, but I must put in a word on the untraditional dessert of the Brussels sprouts, which are crispy fried with some apple. Oh! These things are phenomenal. If you’re a Brussels sprouts for dessert kind of person, which I’m really not.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2218\" data-end=\"2221\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2221\" data-end=\"2240\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I can’t tell you that I know a lot of those people.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2292\" data-end=\"2295\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2295\" data-end=\"2324\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Yeah. Me neither, so… But they are highly recommended. Absolutely delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2403\" data-end=\"2406\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2406\" data-end=\"2425\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And this is a casual place, right?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2460\" data-end=\"2463\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2463\" data-end=\"2482\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Yeah, very casual, very comfortable. They had good music on.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2543\" data-end=\"2546\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2546\" data-end=\"2559\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> Great art on the walls too. There’s some really nice iconic pictures of jazz artists and historic figures.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2666\" data-end=\"2669\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2669\" data-end=\"2688\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So did you get good value out of this place?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2733\" data-end=\"2736\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2736\" data-end=\"2749\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> Absolutely. Talk about a substantial, hearty, satisfying meal that is not going to impact your wallet.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2852\" data-end=\"2855\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2855\" data-end=\"2874\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And you’re gonna go back, George, and bring home more?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2929\" data-end=\"2932\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2932\" data-end=\"2951\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I’m definitely going to hit up the farmers market. We’ll see, if I’m in the neighborhood again, though, I’m going to swing by.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3078\" data-end=\"3081\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3081\" data-end=\"3100\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Well, if you would like to try \u003cstrong data-start=\"3132\" data-end=\"3148\">Gumbo Social\u003c/strong>, it’s located on 3rd Street in San Francisco. The average tab per person without drinks is around $30.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3255\" data-end=\"3521\">George’s favorite brunch spot is all about location, location, location. He spent many a Sunday there, sipping Pimm’s cups, lounging on the patio, and soaking up the stellar bay views. Commanding a prime spot on the docks of Tiburon, it’s \u003cstrong data-start=\"3494\" data-end=\"3518\">The Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/strong>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3523\" data-end=\"3540\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3542\" data-end=\"3770\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3542\" data-end=\"3562\">Daniela Vergara:\u003c/strong> \u003cem data-start=\"3563\" data-end=\"3585\">The Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/em> by Michael Mina. We want to feel like a clubhouse, you know. We want the community to come over, relax with us, indulge in our coastal Californian cuisine and wonderful sips as well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3772\" data-end=\"3789\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3791\" data-end=\"4077\">Our brunch menu—it’s a two-course prix fixe. You have about 10 options for your appetizers and an equal amount for your entrées.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3919\" data-end=\"3922\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3922\" data-end=\"3932\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Mmm!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3937\" data-end=\"3940\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3940\" data-end=\"3960\">Daniela Vergara:\u003c/strong> We have an open-fire grill. It’s oak wood that we feed throughout the night to provide that flavor for our steaks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4079\" data-end=\"4096\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4098\" data-end=\"5057\">We have an array of seafood. We have tuna, sea bass, branzino. We fly in fish from Japan. Our sushi chef, \u003cstrong data-start=\"4204\" data-end=\"4217\">Chef Yama\u003c/strong>, will call up the market in Japan and see whatever he can get as fresh as possible and arrive here overnight.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4327\" data-end=\"4330\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4330\" data-end=\"4344\">Chef Yama:\u003c/strong> This rice I buy from Japan.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4372\" data-end=\"4375\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4375\" data-end=\"4395\">Daniela Vergara:\u003c/strong> The lobster pot pie—it’s a Chef Mina classic dish. A domed puff pastry, and then we’ll crack it tableside, place it on the bottom, and then rebuild that lobster for you. We love to do that extra detail. We want to show the guests what we do in the kitchen, to say this is what we have and why and the story. And it’s just beautiful. I would say like a symphony just all working together, you know.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4793\" data-end=\"4796\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4796\" data-end=\"4809\">Woman #2:\u003c/strong> Thank you so much.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4828\" data-end=\"4831\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4831\" data-end=\"4851\">Daniela Vergara:\u003c/strong> We want to create an atmosphere where it’s relaxing. You get to just take a quick ferry ride over. You get the breeze. You get the warmth. As foggy as it may be in the city, it’s always sunny in Tiburon.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"5059\" data-end=\"5076\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"5078\" data-end=\"7015\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5078\" data-end=\"5097\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now, George, you live in the city, right?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5139\" data-end=\"5142\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5142\" data-end=\"5161\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I do.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5167\" data-end=\"5170\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5170\" data-end=\"5189\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So you get foggy sometimes. And is that why you’re so drawn to sunny Tiburon?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5267\" data-end=\"5270\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5270\" data-end=\"5289\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> It is. It’s like a mini vacation. And that’s why it’s so perfect to go for brunch. You get into your nice big easy chair on the patio. Everything’s kind of these muted coral and sage-green tones, and you just feel like you’ve left the spa and you’re on vacation and you’re ready to have a cocktail. So the first thing that I get is the Pimm’s cup. I love something that’s herby, I love something that’s gin-based, a little fizzy. But, you know, it’s not too potent, so you can have a few and you’re just relaxing. It’s like time has stopped.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5831\" data-end=\"5834\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5834\" data-end=\"5853\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> All right, you got Pimm’s cup in hand. What is the first thing you order?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5927\" data-end=\"5930\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5930\" data-end=\"5949\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> The first thing that I like to order is the butter lettuce and hearts of palm salad. And it comes out on this big long tray, and you think that they’re bringing it to someone else because there’s no way this whole salad could be just for me. It’s velvety soft butter lettuce cups with Brokaw avocado and the sliced hearts of palm, segmented grapefruit. And it’s just a wonderfully refreshing way to start the meal.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6364\" data-end=\"6367\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6367\" data-end=\"6380\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> The theme for me at \u003cem data-start=\"6401\" data-end=\"6419\">Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/em> was, like, tableside appeal. Everything kind of has this big tableside presence.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6500\" data-end=\"6503\" data-is-only-node=\"\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6503\" data-end=\"6511\">Man:\u003c/strong> So we have the sashimi-grade ahi tuna. There’s a quail egg on top with Maldon sea salt.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6599\" data-end=\"6602\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6602\" data-end=\"6615\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> I had the tuna tartare to start, which is visually so lovely. You have the Asian pear, the mint. There’s some sesame oil on there, chilies, all kind of chopped in these cute little piles, and someone tosses it tableside for you.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6844\" data-end=\"6847\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6847\" data-end=\"6866\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It’s breakfast and a show.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6893\" data-end=\"6896\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6896\" data-end=\"6909\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> Breakfast and a show.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6931\" data-end=\"6934\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6934\" data-end=\"6942\">Man:\u003c/strong> And there we go. Michael Mina’s tuna tartare.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6988\" data-end=\"6991\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6991\" data-end=\"7002\">Man #2:\u003c/strong> Wonderful.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"60\" data-end=\"2403\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"60\" data-end=\"73\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> We went for the lobster pot pie, which, talk about tableside appeal. It comes out in this beautiful copper pot with, you know, the flaky crust on top. The meat was succulent and tasty. The vegetables, what I really appreciated, tasted really fresh, like someone had just chopped them and threw them in. A slight acidity would have been nice to kind of cut through the cream, but the sauce was really rich, and it was delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"501\" data-end=\"504\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"504\" data-end=\"523\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Right.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"530\" data-end=\"533\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"533\" data-end=\"562\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I had regrets. I saw it. We had already ordered, and then I saw that roll by, and I was like, “Oh, I missed a bet there,” because it truly is stunningly beautiful. But we did order an assortment of appetizers, and our very favorite one was the jalapeño lobster toasts.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"831\" data-end=\"834\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"834\" data-end=\"853\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Yes!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"858\" data-end=\"861\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"861\" data-end=\"890\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> They’re like a rolled-up kind of thing. It wasn’t—I was expecting something flat on a toast. And this was so much more than that and so much better than that. Delightful little bit of spice, but not too much. Just a really nice blend and balance.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1137\" data-end=\"1140\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1140\" data-end=\"1159\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And what other dishes did you have?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1195\" data-end=\"1198\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1198\" data-end=\"1227\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I had the eggs Benedict with smoked salmon. Also phenomenal. Standard Benedict in terms of English muffin and an egg and hollandaise sauce, but the addition of the smoked salmon was really nice, and it came with a side of crispy potatoes that was really, really good. I also had the steak frites, which is sort of a basic dish—it’s meat and potatoes—but this one was really special. It was a filet prepared absolutely perfectly, nice béarnaise sauce, good fries. We were super happy with it.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1719\" data-end=\"1722\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1722\" data-end=\"1741\" data-is-only-node=\"\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Where I’ve been going lately is to the oak-grilled branzino. And this one comes out in a beautiful stoneware bowl on a bed of orzo with little baby French lentils and a nice piquant tomato sauce. Beautiful piece of branzino with the skin still a little bit crisp. But the flesh is so tender, and it’s just a dream to eat.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2063\" data-end=\"2066\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2066\" data-end=\"2079\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> I think the tip is, at \u003cem data-start=\"2103\" data-end=\"2121\">Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/em>, you go and you see everything…\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2155\" data-end=\"2158\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2158\" data-end=\"2187\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Watch.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2194\" data-end=\"2197\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2197\" data-end=\"2210\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> …and then you go back a second time.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2249\" data-end=\"2252\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2252\" data-end=\"2281\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Yep.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2286\" data-end=\"2289\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2289\" data-end=\"2302\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> We were tempted by the oyster shooters that were going by. Again, just, you know, couldn’t say no.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"2405\" data-end=\"2419\">[ Laughter ]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"2421\" data-end=\"3926\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2421\" data-end=\"2429\">Man:\u003c/strong> This is the way you do it.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2456\" data-end=\"2459\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2459\" data-end=\"2469\">Woman:\u003c/strong> Here we go. Whoo-hoo!\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2491\" data-end=\"2494\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2494\" data-end=\"2507\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> And I also had a Bloody Mary, which had the same kind of tomato-based spicy mix that was part of the oyster shooter.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2624\" data-end=\"2627\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2627\" data-end=\"2656\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> For dessert, I had the espresso martini, which I cannot recommend highly enough. Not groundbreaking in terms of, like, special adds or anything, but in terms of just being well prepared, it was perfection.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2862\" data-end=\"2865\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2865\" data-end=\"2878\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> We shared the crème brûlée French toast, which to me tasted like dessert. It had the sweet inside. I didn’t get too much of a crème brûlée taste, but it was still delicious and sweet and decadent.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3075\" data-end=\"3078\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3078\" data-end=\"3097\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Absolutely. And how was the service?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3134\" data-end=\"3137\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3137\" data-end=\"3166\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Oh, the service was spectacular. Like you said, there was so much tableside action, and they were very, very attentive. Overall, yeah, no complaints on service at all. It was really nicely done.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3361\" data-end=\"3364\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3364\" data-end=\"3383\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And you feel like this is an every Sunday if you can.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3437\" data-end=\"3440\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3440\" data-end=\"3459\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I don’t go every Sunday, although I wish that I could. But, yeah, it’s more of like a once-a-month place, you know, when the fog is getting me down. Just hop across the bridge and, you know, have—\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3656\" data-end=\"3659\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3659\" data-end=\"3678\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And treat yourself.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3698\" data-end=\"3701\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3701\" data-end=\"3720\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Yeah, exactly.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3735\" data-end=\"3738\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3738\" data-end=\"3757\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> All right, well, if you would like to try \u003cem data-start=\"3800\" data-end=\"3822\">The Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/em>, it’s located on Main Street in Tiburon. And the average tab per person without drinks is around $85.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"3928\" data-end=\"4182\">Sarah’s favorite restaurant offers the quintessential farm-to-table experience. The new California menu is driven by whatever’s in season at the owner’s orchards along with other family-owned farms. Located on Oakland’s Piedmont Avenue, it’s \u003cstrong data-start=\"4170\" data-end=\"4179\">Pomet\u003c/strong>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4184\" data-end=\"4201\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4203\" data-end=\"4642\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4203\" data-end=\"4221\">Aomboon Deasy:\u003c/strong> Ooh, now the best part, right? \u003cem data-start=\"4253\" data-end=\"4260\">Pomet\u003c/em> is the truest definition of “farm to table” when it comes to California cuisine. We have access to some of the best ingredients and some of the most unique flavors. A mustard-miso dressing, avocados. I chose the name \u003cem data-start=\"4478\" data-end=\"4485\">Pomet\u003c/em> because it means “orchard” in an old Roman language. It also stems from the word of “pomology,” which is the study and cultivation of fruit and nut trees.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4644\" data-end=\"4943\">\u003cem data-start=\"4644\" data-end=\"4651\">Pomet\u003c/em> wouldn’t be here without Kalayada and James, my parents, who started the farm \u003cstrong data-start=\"4730\" data-end=\"4748\">K & J Orchards\u003c/strong>. Nectarines, peaches, cherries, persimmons. We get to highlight what we grow, and the kitchen gets to make even look more beautiful and taste even better than it really is in its natural form.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4945\" data-end=\"4962\">[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"4964\" data-end=\"5566\">The recipes are a culmination of the collaboration of the chef and the kitchen staff and also a little bit of input from me.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5088\" data-end=\"5091\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5091\" data-end=\"5099\">Man:\u003c/strong> That is really good.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5120\" data-end=\"5123\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5123\" data-end=\"5141\">Aomboon Deasy:\u003c/strong> They are dishes that we remember growing up and what our parents, our grandparents used to cook, and influence of many cultures. The wood that we use to cook our food here is mostly all fruit wood. It brings a little bit of that earthiness to each of the plates. In a way, the tree is the full circle of life. We harvest the fruit from it, but then we use the rest of it to cook the food that is presented here at \u003cem data-start=\"5556\" data-end=\"5563\">Pomet\u003c/em>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"5568\" data-end=\"5965\">One of the things that \u003cem data-start=\"5591\" data-end=\"5598\">Pomet\u003c/em> does is, at the end of every meal, they get to have a piece of fruit for them to experience like they just walked out of the orchard, to really enjoy as their last bite as they say thank you, and we say thank you to them. Their faces when they try something and they’re just mesmerized by the taste and the freshness, brings me joy that we’ve done something right.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"5967\" data-end=\"7197\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5967\" data-end=\"5986\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> All right, Sarah, you know the phrase “farm to table” is so overused sometimes. I mean, this really is about “orchard to table.” This is—this is the real deal, isn’t it?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6156\" data-end=\"6159\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6159\" data-end=\"6172\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> That’s the perfect way of putting it. When you look at the menu, what I love is they’ll feature the farms’ names. It’s something that it’s so subtle and small, but it makes a really big difference, I think, in understanding where the food comes from.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6423\" data-end=\"6426\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6426\" data-end=\"6445\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Right.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6452\" data-end=\"6455\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6455\" data-end=\"6468\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> I always start with the seasonal salad. It is truly seasonal, so it will depend on what fruits are in season. I went recently and I got little gem lettuces with peaches and just a really light vinaigrette that doesn’t overpower the fruit or the lettuces. You can even taste the sweetness of the lettuce.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6772\" data-end=\"6775\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6775\" data-end=\"6794\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> One of the best starters for me was the smashed cucumber salad. And the cucumbers are all sliced in different directions, so you kind of get some different textures, right? But they’re sitting in a soy milk and sesame broth, and it’s all topped with a little bit of chili oil. So I found myself trying to push away my tablemates.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"60\" data-end=\"5624\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"60\" data-end=\"79\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Right. You wanted all the cucumbers to yourself.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"128\" data-end=\"131\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"131\" data-end=\"150\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I wanted them all to myself.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"179\" data-end=\"182\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"182\" data-end=\"201\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> [Laughs] What about you, Leslie?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"234\" data-end=\"237\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"237\" data-end=\"266\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Every single dish had something jazzy going on, something creative. We had the crispy duck appetizer, and we also had the duck entrée. They were very different. The appetizer was kind of a little explosion of flavors. We’re kind of like knocking each other’s forks out of the way.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"547\" data-end=\"550\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"550\" data-end=\"569\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> So we also had the duck appetizer, and it came with a crisp little apple slaw with it. And the sauce was kind of a pomegranate and gochujang glaze. Perfectly crisp. My tablemate, other than myself and my fiancé, we were a table of three, is vegetarian, so I only had to share with one person.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"862\" data-end=\"865\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"865\" data-end=\"884\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> [Laughs]\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"893\" data-end=\"896\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"896\" data-end=\"915\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I was also celebrating my birthday, so I got to—yeah, I got to kind of pull rank a little bit on whichever dishes that I wanted.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1044\" data-end=\"1047\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1047\" data-end=\"1060\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> This is more of a side, but I love the rolls. They have these Hokkaido milk bread rolls. So fluffy. Nice chew when you bite into it, and they serve it with this incredible butter. One time I finished the rolls and there was leftover butter and I asked the waiter if I could take the butter home, it was that good. It’s very velvety and soft, and it’s great for sopping up those juices from the cucumber or other appetizers.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1484\" data-end=\"1487\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1487\" data-end=\"1506\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> We did all starters, actually. So the graffiti eggplant dip was so fabulous. Perfectly smooth, rich, kind of like a mapo mushroom sauce over the top. A wonderful cool cream on the side, with semolina crackers, which were kind of like big, long shards—looked like broken glass but made of semolina. We were all fighting over that one as well.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1848\" data-end=\"1851\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1851\" data-end=\"1870\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It was a battle, I’m guessing.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"1901\" data-end=\"1904\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"1904\" data-end=\"1933\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> It was perfection. Every single mouthful at that place, no matter what we ordered, was outstanding.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2033\" data-end=\"2036\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2036\" data-end=\"2049\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> I forget that it’s a starter. I always think of it as a main dish because it’s so substantial.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2144\" data-end=\"2147\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2147\" data-end=\"2166\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Another star for us was the ugly mushroom pasta. A symphony of mushrooms, right?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2247\" data-end=\"2250\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2250\" data-end=\"2269\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And all ugly.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2283\" data-end=\"2286\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2286\" data-end=\"2305\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Well, I would say beautiful.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2334\" data-end=\"2337\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2337\" data-end=\"2366\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I thought it was gorgeous.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2393\" data-end=\"2396\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2396\" data-end=\"2409\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> Spectacular, though.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2430\" data-end=\"2433\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2433\" data-end=\"2452\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> And then once you kind of get below that layer, you have these little boats of pasta filled with even more mushroom, luscious sauce underneath. It was a dream.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2612\" data-end=\"2615\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2615\" data-end=\"2634\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And you’re agreeing.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2655\" data-end=\"2658\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2658\" data-end=\"2687\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> Oh, that’s the dish that we will all really remember. Everything at this restaurant was special. We had the char siu pork, which was a pork belly. This was like silk in your mouth. Beautifully prepared, just the right amount of seasoning. And it came with this hot mustard, which was delicious.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"2982\" data-end=\"2985\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"2985\" data-end=\"2998\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> I had the salmon. The quality of the salmon is such that all they did was serve it with some stuffed peppers. Very fresh. And it was the perfect pairing of the sweetness from the peppers with the richness of the salmon. It’s super simple. Just a great fish.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3256\" data-end=\"3259\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3259\" data-end=\"3278\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And did you have anything to drink with this?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3324\" data-end=\"3327\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3327\" data-end=\"3356\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I did. I had the housemade rose geranium spritzer. I’m an herb gardener myself, so of course I had to try that, and it was perfect. Like, it did not beat you over the head with rose geranium. You had to get about halfway down the spritzer in order to get it, and then when it came, it was perfect.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3654\" data-end=\"3657\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3657\" data-end=\"3676\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Oh, nice.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3686\" data-end=\"3689\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3689\" data-end=\"3708\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Well, is it too early to talk about dessert?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3753\" data-end=\"3756\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3756\" data-end=\"3775\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It never is. No.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"3792\" data-end=\"3795\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"3795\" data-end=\"3814\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> So if I could go back and just have this peach galette, I would, and it would be the only thing that I ate for the rest of my life. It was a beautiful mound of peaches sitting atop a very crisp puff pastry, beautifully pleated and studded with sanding sugar so it’s extra crisp. And then sitting above is the real star that makes it so amazing, which is the yogurt semifreddo. And as soon as it touches your tongue, it just dissipates completely. But it brought it all together.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4293\" data-end=\"4296\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4296\" data-end=\"4325\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I got to put in a word for the chocolate cake. OMG, you guys. Texturally, it was almost like a cross between pudding and cake. Not too sweet. Perfectly balanced flavors and five people going at it with spoons.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4535\" data-end=\"4538\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4538\" data-end=\"4557\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> [Laughs]\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4566\" data-end=\"4569\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4569\" data-end=\"4598\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> It was—it was perfection.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4624\" data-end=\"4627\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4627\" data-end=\"4646\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And how was the service?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4671\" data-end=\"4674\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4674\" data-end=\"4703\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> I can’t put enough emphasis on the service, too, because we were seated in the outside area. So there were heaters to make sure we were warm. And sometimes when you get seated outside, you get forgotten a little bit. Not at this place.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4939\" data-end=\"4942\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4942\" data-end=\"4961\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You agree?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"4972\" data-end=\"4975\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"4975\" data-end=\"4994\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> I definitely agree. I will be going back next year for my birthday and probably a number of times in between.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5104\" data-end=\"5107\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5107\" data-end=\"5136\">Leslie Griffin Robertson:\u003c/strong> My husband has already asked for it for his birthday next year, so it’s gonna become a birthday destination.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5245\" data-end=\"5248\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5248\" data-end=\"5267\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I would say that’s high praise.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5299\" data-end=\"5302\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5302\" data-end=\"5315\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> That’s what I like. You know, you can go for your birthday, you can go for a Friday night meal. And it really does have this cozy, inviting feel.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"5461\" data-end=\"5464\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"5464\" data-end=\"5483\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> If you would like to try \u003cem data-start=\"5509\" data-end=\"5516\">Pomet\u003c/em>, it’s located on Piedmont Avenue in Oakland, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $80.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"5626\" data-end=\"5744\">Looking for more Bay Area bites you’ve just got to try? Check out \u003cem data-start=\"5692\" data-end=\"5710\">Cecilia Tries It\u003c/em> online at kqed.org/checkplease.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"5746\" data-end=\"6081\">I have to thank my incredibly articulate guests on this week’s show—Sarah Oh, who appreciates the farm-driven menu at \u003cem data-start=\"5864\" data-end=\"5871\">Pomet\u003c/em> in Oakland; Leslie Griffin Robertson, who always takes home an extra bowl from \u003cem data-start=\"5951\" data-end=\"5965\">Gumbo Social\u003c/em> in San Francisco; and George Andrews, who pairs his branzino with bay views at \u003cem data-start=\"6045\" data-end=\"6067\">The Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/em> in Tiburon.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"6083\" data-end=\"6427\">Join us next time when three more guests will recommend their favorite spots right here on \u003cem data-start=\"6174\" data-end=\"6200\">Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em> I’m Leslie Sbrocco, and I’ll see you then. Cheers. And cheers to you.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6270\" data-end=\"6273\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6273\" data-end=\"6286\">Sarah Oh:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6294\" data-end=\"6297\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6297\" data-end=\"6316\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6324\" data-end=\"6327\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6327\" data-end=\"6346\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you have fun?\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6364\" data-end=\"6367\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6367\" data-end=\"6386\">George Andrews:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003cbr>\n\u003cbr data-start=\"6392\" data-end=\"6395\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6395\" data-end=\"6414\">Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Yes! Whee!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"6429\" data-end=\"6457\">[Indistinct conversations]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp data-start=\"6459\" data-end=\"6956\">\u003cstrong data-start=\"6459\" data-end=\"6476\">Dontaye Ball:\u003c/strong> Me and gumbo are in a heavy marriage together. Her and I, we’ve been seeing each other for quite some time. [Laughs] The social piece I thought was really important because typically when you have gumbo, you’re having it with people you love and care about. So if you’re having a tough day, the gumbo should ease the tension of the conversation. I’ve never seen anyone have a fight when a bowl of gumbo is present. Only rough argument’s when, who’s gonna get the last crab leg?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/em>season 19, episode 13, airs Thursday, February 6, at 7:30 pm, on KQED 9. See other \u003ca href=\"http://www.kqed.org/tv/programs/index.jsp?pgmid=14084\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">television airtimes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On a new \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>: This week’s episode begins in Alameda, where \u003cstrong>Fikscue\u003c/strong> blends traditional Indonesian flavors with Texas barbecue. From the smoky richness of brisket and dino ribs to vibrant dishes like their rendang and nasi goreng, this East Bay spot takes the soulful art of barbecue to a new level. Next, at \u003cstrong>The Pawnshop\u003c/strong> in San Francisco, a true hidden gem delights with its unique and eclectic dining experience. True to its name, guests must provide a trinket as an entry fee before enjoying tapas including jamón serrano, tortilla española, and gambas al ajillo, followed by sweet and crispy churros. Finally, \u003cstrong>Apple Fritter\u003c/strong> in San Mateo is a haven for breakfast lovers, featuring playful takes on morning classics, including donut burgers, Nutella-stuffed French toast, and ube cake donuts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_23355\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-23355 size-medium\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/CPBA_1913_Guests-800x533.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/CPBA_1913_Guests-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/CPBA_1913_Guests-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/CPBA_1913_Guests-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/CPBA_1913_Guests-768x512.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/CPBA_1913_Guests-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/CPBA_1913_Guests.png 1620w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco joins guests Adam Risman, Noelani Meteyry and Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin from KQED in San Francisco.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Get Restaurant Information:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.fikscue.com/\">\u003cstrong>Fikscue\u003c/strong> (Alameda)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://thepawnshopsf.com/\">\u003cstrong>The Pawnshop\u003c/strong> (San Francisco)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.applefrittereatery.com/\">\u003cstrong>Apple Fritter\u003c/strong> (San Mateo)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>Episode Transcript\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Indonesian barbecue heaven in Alameda.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> The dino ribs are insane.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Come on in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> A one-of-a-kind tapas bar in San Francisco.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Salt pops—boom, boom, boom—from the salmon roe.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And decadent brunch delights in San Mateo.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> That dish always leaves clean.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Just ahead on \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> I gotta come back next time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Pass the rib!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Hi, I’m Leslie Sbrocco. Welcome to \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area,\u003c/em> the show where Bay Area residents review and talk about their favorite restaurants. Now we have three guests, and each one recommends one of their favorite spots. And the other two go check them out to see what they think.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Joining me at the \u003cem>Check, Please!\u003c/em> table today are Marketing Director \u003cstrong>Adam Risman\u003c/strong>, Mental-Health Wellness Director \u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin\u003c/strong>, and Analyst \u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry\u003c/strong>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Welcome, everyone. Are you ready for a good show?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>All:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Adam grew up in Texas, so when it comes to barbecue, he’s got some pretty strong opinions. Lately, he’s been raving about an Indonesian barbecue spot he claims has the best smoked meats west of the Panhandle. Located in Alameda, it’s \u003cstrong>Fikscue Craft BBQ\u003c/strong>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> Fikscue Craft BBQ is an amazing experience of Texas craft barbecue along with Indonesian dishes. So our smoked brisket right here, your Nasi Goreng, your Rendang Plate. And it’s halal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> Reka’s always been cooking at home. And then one day we had an argument—she didn’t want to cook. So I figured, let me learn how to cook myself in the backyard.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Just one more of the beef back.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> I was actually really shocked because he’s never in the kitchen with me, and all of a sudden he started doing gyros, rotisserie chicken, you name it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I was on a mission to prove her wrong. I would practice on cooking brisket and there were a lot of leftovers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> That’s when she comes in and says, “Let me redo this into an Indonesian dish.” That’s how it all started, basically.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> With Texas barbecue, time and patience, I would say, is the key. Brisket is kind of delicate. If it’s a little under, it’s going to be a little tough. If it’s a little over, it could be a little mushy. That balance in between is what we’re looking for.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> We call it the jiggle.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> [Laughs] Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> [Laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> It looks amazing. I need two people to carry it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> My recipes came from my mom, but of course I made it my own. [Laughs] One of our most popular dishes is the Rendang plate. It has over 20 different spices. It takes three days to cook it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> There’s going to be a line just like a traditional Texas barbecue spot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> Welcome, welcome. Normally, people start coming, like, before we open at 12:00—11:30 or whatnot, then became 11:00, became 10:30, became 10:00. I think the record holder now is 9:00.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Welcome, this is our smoked brisket.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> When you’re in line, you’re waiting for that door to open. I see people mingle, make new friends, and that’s what we love to see.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> I see you got a little bit of everything. I want them to be satisfied that the line is worth waiting. That’s our goal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man #2:\u003c/strong> Awesome.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> Alright.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man #2:\u003c/strong> Thank you so much.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> No, thank you. Enjoy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, Adam, from Texas, you’ve got some pretty high standards, I think, for barbecue, huh?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> There’s a lot of good barbecue out here in the Bay. And there’s a gap from really good to really, really great.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You found the really, really great.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Found the really, really great with something that also sets it apart with the Indonesian side of the house as well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What do you order when you go get your barbecue?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Too much food. [Laughter] Brisket is always the standard at a barbecue place, and part of the reason why the line exists is everything is sliced by hand by Fik when you get to the counter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And when you are ordering your brisket, you get a chance to sort of say like, “Hey, I really like the lean slices of meat. I like the fattier cuts. I’d like some burnt ends if you have them,” at the right time when they pull out that fresh slab.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I always go with the fatty cut myself. It cuts with the fork, gets nice and moist, and that’s just all that rendered fat where all the flavor comes from. So do they have great barbecue sauce? Yes. Do you need it? I don’t think so.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Okay. Hang on. I’m going to see if we have some dissension or agreement over here. What about you, Noelani?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Oh, I totally agree about the brisket, but I did have to go with the sauce. I really love the orange sauce that they gave, but I also was a big fan of the jalapeño-cheddar sausage. There was like real cheese that oozed out of it. And again, with the orange sauce is the way to go.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Is the way to go. Amaal, what do you think?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> Yeah. No, I was really impressed with the service—they got it down to a tee. When you get your order, they prepare it perfectly. They know what to do. The dino ribs are insane.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I got, like, a smaller dino rib. It was still over a pound on the scale.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> It’s per pound, and you have to get minimum one. So, like, that might be the maximum you need because they are huge, but that meat just falls off the bones, super tender.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I agree with Adam that you don’t need sauce, but the sauce is super delicious. It’s got the nice Indonesian spices in the barbecue sauce. If they bottled that barbecue sauce, I would get it for sure.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So it just all goes super well together.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> I missed out on the dino rib. I guess they sold out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Ah!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> But I did want to try it because it really looked like a dinosaur’s ribs. They were huge. I saw a whole family just sharing one. I’m like, “Okay, I gotta come back next time.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Pass the rib! [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> So the brisket I got, I did get on the Rendang plate, which comes with some crispy rice crackers and other sides and a fried egg, like a combination of textures and flavors that all goes super well together.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And so that one came with a little green sambal sauce. That’s what I dipped my brisket in. I thought that combination of the brisket with the sambal was really good, so smart.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> I love that Rendang plate. To me, that’s kind of where the Indonesian and barbecue sides really come together, because Rendang is typically like maybe a chuck roast, right? Something that cooks very slowly, shreds apart, and it takes days to make this curry that this meat is cooked in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But it’s the chopped, smoked brisket that’s in there instead. So it adds that extra level of smokiness into the earthy Rendang curry.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And then what did you think of that curried kale that comes on the side? Because I love that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> Yeah. That was super good. Lots of flavor. It’s such a good texture for kale because kale can be kind of tough. But the kale curry was super tender, easy to chew, and enjoy all the flavors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> I also had the chicken, which was the thigh and the leg, which of course is the best part.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Mm-hmm.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> It was really good with a crispy skin with pepper, and I’m a huge pepper fan.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And the coleslaw, I’m not usually a fan of coleslaw or peanut sauce, which is in it, but this worked. The peanut flavor was not overpowering. It was really subtle, and they had these little crunchy things in it. So the texture paired really well with the chicken.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> A good counterpoint.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> So on the Indonesian side, the Batagor is a favorite for my family when we go. That’s these fried vegetarian dumplings that are tossed in this rich, spicy peanut sauce, the same sauce they use on the slaw.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The dumplings are delicious themselves, but that sauce—like whatever we can find that we still have on our plate, we’re using to get the rest of that peanut sauce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What else should they get?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Did anyone have the Nasi Goreng, the fried rice?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> I did.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> So that is my favorite go-to side. It’s got these little bits of corned beef in there that give it a little like fermented funkiness. There’s egg in there, fresh vegetables. I have to get that every single time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now, did you have anything to drink alongside that to wash that down?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> When I went, it happened to be Indonesian Independence Day. And so they had a Rose soda, which was really interesting. I liked it because it was pink. And I happened to be wearing pink, so it matched my outfit.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Of course.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> But it was a really unique flavor, and it was refreshing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> So it is right next door to a brewery. Convenient, you can bring the food inside, and then a nice IPA pairs really well with barbecue.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yes. [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Right, so you can take it over there and go sit down.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Exactly, yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Any dessert or dessert drinks?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Did I have room for dessert? Absolutely not. Did I still order banana pudding? Yes, it was worth it. [Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>That sort of smooth texture from the banana pudding was a really nice kind of change of pace from the meatiness of barbecue. There were fresh slices of banana in it and that one sort of classic vanilla wafer on top, a little bit of crumbled wafer as well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> So I did have a kind of dessert-like drink called a Cendol, which had pandan flavors and coconut milk and tapioca things you could chew on that had good texture and were also sweet. And so I think it was a great dessert, and I really enjoyed it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And do you feel like with all that food that you got good value?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> Definitely, yeah. The food that we ordered, just my friend and I, we had extras that I brought home and my mom could try it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And do you feel like with all that food that you got good value?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> Definitely, yeah. The food that we ordered, just my friend and I, we had extras that I brought home, and my mom could try it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And similarly, she lived in Texas, too, and she thought it was as good as brisket in Texas that she’s had. So it definitely reaches the bar.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah, you definitely have to be there early, though. Like, I was there on a Saturday at 1:30, and things were selling out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So it’s no joke that they say line up early if you want all your pickings because they sell out fast.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, well, if you would like to try Fikscue Craft BBQ, it’s located on Park Street in Alameda, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $55.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Step inside the pawnshop facade of Noelani’s restaurant, and you’d think you’re in the wrong place.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Well, hello, gorgeouses.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Once you’re through the hidden door, though, you’ll find the speakeasy vibe, art deco bar, and the creative Spanish-inspired bites all set the stage for a memorable night out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Located in San Francisco’s SoMa neighborhood, it’s The Pawnshop.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> The Pawnshop is an experiential speakeasy. Once you walk through these doors, it’s like you’re on a different planet.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[applause]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We are located on the corner of Sixth and Mission. It was a pawnshop for 40 years. It was called Money Loaned.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We still have the sign up above.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Hello, gorgeous. Welcome. Let’s see what you got.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> So when you come to The Pawnshop, you have to bring either a tchotchke or a family heirloom if you want to.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> A rubber chicken?! How did you know I needed a new one in my life? I love it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> A joke, a dance—bring something to the Pawnmaster. Because if you don’t do that, you’re going to be in a lot of trouble.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Used chapstick? [Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> The craziest thing we’ve ever been given was when somebody brought in a kitchen sink.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We were like, “Really? Everything and the kitchen sink?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> If I push a few buttons, do a little this, a little of that, it should be ready to go.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Come on in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[door clicks]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Welcome to The Pawnshop.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[cheers and applause]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrons:\u003c/strong> Hey!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Damien Chabaud-Arnault:\u003c/strong> I come from a French background. And us from the south of France, we used to go to Barcelona for the night just to go party and have a good time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And when we built this space, the way we wanted to do it is the communal eating.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> It’s really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Damien Chabaud-Arnault:\u003c/strong> And how we do that back in Spain, it’s loud. There’s joy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[cheering]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The food that we have here, we chose to have tapas, the small plates meant to be shared.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We took all the stars from the Catalan and the Spanish culture.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Tomato, olive oil, just a little garlic. Whoa!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So the classic Pan con Tomate.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[griddle sizzling]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The octopus, Pulpo a la Plancha.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Gambas al Ajillo, which is also exceptionally classic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> One thing that’s great about Pawnshop is that we’re open until 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and there’s not a lot of restaurants in San Francisco that are staying open that late.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[cheers and applause]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In The Pawnshop, too, there’s a lot of little Easter eggs and things that are super fun.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So there’s a mirror over there where you can watch your friends come in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Hey!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrons:\u003c/strong> Hey!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> There’s a karaoke room. There are secret passageways. It’ll take you to a different spot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And away they go.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There are performances that will happen when you’re least expecting it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Damien Chabaud-Arnault:\u003c/strong> We put sun in their life. We put a smile on their face.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We’re on stage when we’re here.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And I see the light on their face. I’m like, I get the shiver right now.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I’m like, “Yes, we did it.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[glass clinking]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, Noelani, how did you find the secret door?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> I found it by accident, to be honest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So you walk up to the door.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Take us through it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> So you walk up through the door, you’re first confused because you’re like, “Wait, this is a pawnshop.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Well, hello, everybody.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> You’re not thinking that it’s a restaurant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I got there early. So I was there before the restaurant was open.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I’m just, like, hanging out on Mission in front of this store. I’m like, “Am I in the right place? Am I even going to have dinner tonight?” [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But that’s kind of the fun of it. Is not even telling someone the name of the restaurant. It’s just giving them an address, and then they’re kind of confused.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> I found the Pawnmaster to basically be a method actor. You don’t know what questions you’re going to be asked. Is this a 10-second exchange, or am I going to have to navigate 5 minutes of conversation? It’s a little tricky to get in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. What do you go for?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Okay, so it’s tapas style. I really like the Gambas al Ajillo, garlic shrimp. The shrimp is in garlic and butter. You can’t go wrong with that. And on top of it, they give you bread.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So the minute the shrimp are gone, everyone’s fighting for the bread to dip it in the sauce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> I’m glad you mentioned that shrimp. That was, to me, the most standout dish. It’s these delicately poached shrimp in this sherry vinegar broth. And then they have these thinly mandoline-sliced garlic chips floating around in the broth. And I didn’t discover those right away. And then as soon as I did, I was just spooning that over the top of the shrimp.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> That dish always leaves clean.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Right.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Also, another favorite is the Patatas Bravas. Can’t go wrong with crispy potatoes and sauce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. What about you, Amaal?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> I was really excited for the Pulpo a la Plancha because I love octopus. That was grilled to perfection and had a nice pickled veg and a squid ink aioli. That all went really well together.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And it’s fun doing tapas style in an atmosphere like this certainly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it’s fun to have so much on your table. Gets to be a little bit overwhelming if you overdo it like we maybe did. But I really loved the Tortilla Española. It was the classic egg omelet, although it was really elevated from there.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It had this spoon of crème fraîche on top, and then a really generous portion of salmon roe sprinkled on top, as well as these crunchy potato chips.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So texturally, you had this soft egg, the sourness of the crème fraîche, and then these salt pops—boom, boom, boom—from the salmon roe. It was really nice.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And what did you drink with it?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> I had some very good wine. I was impressed by the amount of options they had by the glass. Some more choices than you typically have. And I wanted to go with the Tempranillo because we’re in a tapas restaurant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You’re in Spain.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> I did have the Seasonal Sangria, which had little apple cubes and sliced-up citrus in it and had a hint of clove.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So it’s really nice—seasonal, fruity, slightly spicy with the clove.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And sangria goes with every dish on the table.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> So I also wanted to mention the Vegan Chicharrón. They’re huge, but they’re like wafer-thin, and they’re salty and crispy and sweet and almost better than regular chicharrones.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That’s good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> And I also had the duck pâté, and that comes with some cherries and some herbs. Also, the little toasts—you can make a little bite with the pâté and the cherries and herbs. That’s just a perfectly composed little bite that you make yourself.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> So a must-get dish is the hanger steak. It comes with potatoes and mushrooms. First of all, the steak is cooked to perfection. Seasoned well, it’s juicy, tender. The mushrooms are a beautiful accompaniment. And then the potatoes—the skin is crispy but still juicy on the inside. You just can’t go wrong with steak and potatoes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What about dessert?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Oh, I have to get the churros every time. So I went there for a birthday. And it’s fun because when they brought out the churros, they sang Happy Birthday and had a little candle. But what I really like about the churros is that they’re super light.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So even if you’re full, you’re like, “Well, I’ll have one just to, you know, have in my dessert stomach,” and then you can dip it in the chocolate sauce and it’s just really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> I did also have the churros, but I had the cheese dessert, which is a triple cream—kind of like a Brie, but it’s got a bloomy rind. And then it’s also served with these fancy cherries and a honeycomb. I was surprised how much I loved this cheese because it was a little funky.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And I don’t always like funky cheeses, but it’s also with a little toast with cheese, the cherries, and the honeycomb. And it was just so good. Like, cheese for dessert is just fantastic. I had—I had dreams about that cheese that night.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> I’ll have to try that next time. [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So do you think this is a good bang for the buck?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Totally. You leave there happy. And you leave there wanting to talk about it with your friends.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I’d say the same. Just remember, you can always order more. So maybe don’t do what we did and order everything at once. And from there, you’ll leave in a good spot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And did you get your pawn item back on the way out?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> I didn’t get my pawn item back, but when I pawned my item, he gave me a different item back. I got this little robot with little guns.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Ah! There you go!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Where’s my robot?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> [Laughing] I love it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Well, if you would like to try The Pawnshop, it’s located on Mission Street in San Francisco, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $40.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Amaal rounds out our show with yet another hidden gem.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s a quirky little café housed in a former Taco Bell where decadent doughnuts, killer breakfast sandos, and creamy milkshakes are the stuff of Amaal’s comfort food dreams.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Located in San Mateo, it’s Apple Fritter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>John Chow:\u003c/strong> Apple Fritter is a homey place where you can bring your family, your friends, your kids.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s a great place for everybody.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Hi. How are you guys?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I grew up doing doughnuts my whole life. My parents fled a war in Cambodia. They came to this country to start a new life. They had friends that had sponsored them and helped them create a doughnut business.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A lot of times my parents would bring me to the shop.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I’d sneak myself into the doughnut counter, steal an apple fritter, [laughs] and then take a huge bite before they found out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The restaurant used to be an old Taco Bell, and growing up, I used to come here all the time, and I actually thought, “Oh, maybe I’ll open up this place and eventually convert it into maybe a breakfast place.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The inspiration for the decorations really came from who I am. I like strange, unique kind of things. I like having fun.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We actually make all of our doughnuts in-house. People don’t realize a lot of the times we have more than just an apple fritter. So we have like chocolate doughnuts, ube, red velvet, almond pistachio—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Even plain old-fashioned is really, surprisingly, good. [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Breakfast Luther—it came from this cartoon. I thought it was the funniest thing ever, and they incorporated a doughnut burger.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Robert:\u003c/strong> The Luther!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>John Chow:\u003c/strong> I decided to actually create it, and eventually it became a hit.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Fruity Pebbles!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As a child, I loved Fruity Pebbles, and one of my favorite creations was probably adding it to the milkshakes because, uh, why not? [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patron:\u003c/strong> This is really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>John Chow:\u003c/strong> I really love what I do.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I come to work, and it doesn’t feel like work.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrons:\u003c/strong> Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>John Chow:\u003c/strong> It’s one of the greatest feelings when people come to your restaurant, bring their friends in, and just have a good time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, Amaal, do you like breakfast?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Are you a breakfast-every-day kind of person?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I love getting a really full, big breakfast—it’s always the best.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And this place has it all, doesn’t it?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> It does. My favorite dish is the Luther Breakfast Burger. It’s a burger on a doughnut with a fried egg—fried perfectly. When you bite into it, the yolk oozes out of the top of the doughnut onto the plate.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can dip your hash browns in the egg—it’s so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> I was scared to order that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Just because I’m like, “Doughnut, burger—heart attack?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Um, no, but I’m so glad that I did because it ended up being my favorite dish that I ordered, and I ended up sharing it. So it wasn’t too much, but it was really good. I never would have thought to do that, but the salty and sweet combination—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Does the doughnut get soggy?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> They grill the doughnuts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> No, they grill them.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Ah, okay. There you go.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> They grill it, so it held together really well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And just the flavors were really, really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. What did you have, Adam?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> So I got cold feet on the doughnut sandwich.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But the reason for that, which I think is very valid, is right before you get to the register where you order, there is essentially a wall of doughnuts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And there are just so many amazing doughnut options.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Did you get the apple fritter?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> I had the blueberry fritter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> It was large enough for four of us to share. Everyone can kind of pull apart their individual piece. And it had that thick glaze that kind of cracks just the way you want it, but then the inside of the fritter was super cakey and soft.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Mm-hmm.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah, you can’t leave there without getting an apple fritter. They do sell out. So hopefully you can get one while you’re there. But if you’re there, definitely get an apple fritter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I’m also—I’m a scramble girly. So I had to get the chicken apple sausage scramble. And usually when you go to places, it’s like maybe a couple of pieces.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But this was overwhelming with how much sausage they put in, as well as spinach and everything. So the portions are really nice.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And we also had sandwiches. The bread that they put with the sandwich is really spectacular.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you get any sandwiches?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Well, yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Or you stuck—okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> I had the Pigs Gone Wild Sandwich.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And it was really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It had that toast that you mentioned, and then three pieces of flat-top griddled bacon. There were grilled mushrooms on there, fresh eggs, cheese. And to me, what can make or break a breakfast sandwich is really how hot it is when it gets to the plate.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And this came straight off that grill onto our table. And when you bit into it, the crunch from the bacon, the soft eggs, the gooey cheese—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Just kind of everything all at once, it was awesome.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Is that a sandwich you get?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> I have not had that sandwich, but I also do get lunch there sometimes. Like, I really like their Rachel. It’s like a Reuben, but with turkey instead of pastrami, and it’s really good. And I get that with their homemade potato chips. I don’t know if you guys got a chance to try the homemade potato chips, but—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman & Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> No.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> So yeah, they are really good for lunch, too.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And I hear the milkshakes are something.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> They are. I had the pineapple milkshake. It was tart and sweet and creamy—super delicious. They make all their milkshakes with frozen custard, so they’re super good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> I had the espresso milkshake, which was really great because I can’t have breakfast without coffee. Good flavor. And I got to split—between a number of people, wasn’t just me—the banana one. Really great fresh banana, nothing artificial tasting in it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It would definitely have passed the old Dairy Queen test where if you flipped it upside down, nothing was coming out, right? But it wasn’t so thick that it was a lot of work to actually enjoy the milkshake.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>John Chow:\u003c/strong> Okay, maybe it’s a little too thick.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> It was awesome.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I’m really dreaming about that pineapple milkshake now, I gotta be honest with you. [Laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> But they do have a good espresso coffee bar, and I usually get the Vanilla Lavender Latte. It’s not too vanilla-y or too lavender-y, and they’re all made super hot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> I’ll say that the Nutella French Toast—that is dessert on a plate because it’s so decadent. And I really liked that they even took the time to cook the bananas, which most places don’t do. But here, it really brought out the flavors. Everyone loves Nutella, so putting that, bananas, powdered sugar on French toast—if you have a sweet tooth, that’s the way to go.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Even if you don’t have a sweet tooth when you walk into this place, you will have one when you walk out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Oh, for sure.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you lived nearby, you’d be there a lot more, right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Even if you don’t live nearby.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s a good place, especially after a night of drinking, and you want a good meal to get you up and ready for the weekend—it’s a good place.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It’s your splurge spot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> You might take the long way to the airport just to circle through there and grab a shake before a flight.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you would like to try Apple Fritter, it’s located on Norfolk Street in San Mateo, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $20.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Looking for more Bay Area bites you’ve just got to try?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Check out \u003cem>Cecilia Tries It\u003c/em> online at \u003ca href=\"http://kqed.org/checkplease\" target=\"_new\" rel=\"noopener\">kqed.org/checkplease\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> [Laughs] Mmm!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I have to thank my great guests on this week’s show—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman,\u003c/strong> who devours the dino beef ribs at Fikscue Craft BBQ in Alameda.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin,\u003c/strong> lover of the Breakfast Luther Doughnut Sandwich at Apple Fritter in San Mateo.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And \u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry,\u003c/strong> who gave us the inside scoop on The Pawnshop in San Francisco.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Join us next time when three more guests will recommend their favorite spots right here on \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I’m \u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco,\u003c/strong> and I’ll see you then.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yay!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And cheers to you!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Did you have fun?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yes!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Cheers! Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Alright, now let’s see. What did you bring me?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Damien Chabaud-Arnault:\u003c/strong> You would not believe how much stuff we get.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> One time, somebody tried to pawn their child off, but that was just for jokes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>One time, somebody tried to pawn their fiancée off. That was for real.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> I have a 3-D printed genie bottle.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> I’m going to trade you for—you’re going to get some love in your life.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man #2:\u003c/strong> Oh!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> Oh, you can never have enough love.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man #2:\u003c/strong> That’s going to go a long way.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> So we’re always getting crazy stuff.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> How’s everyone doing?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrons:\u003c/strong> Gorgeous!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Welcome, welcome, welcome.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Cheers and applause]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man #3:\u003c/strong> Put it there! We’ll wait for you!\u003c/p>\n\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/em>season 19, episode 13, airs Thursday, February 6, at 7:30 pm, on KQED 9. See other \u003ca href=\"http://www.kqed.org/tv/programs/index.jsp?pgmid=14084\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">television airtimes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On a new \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>: This week’s episode begins in Alameda, where \u003cstrong>Fikscue\u003c/strong> blends traditional Indonesian flavors with Texas barbecue. From the smoky richness of brisket and dino ribs to vibrant dishes like their rendang and nasi goreng, this East Bay spot takes the soulful art of barbecue to a new level. Next, at \u003cstrong>The Pawnshop\u003c/strong> in San Francisco, a true hidden gem delights with its unique and eclectic dining experience. True to its name, guests must provide a trinket as an entry fee before enjoying tapas including jamón serrano, tortilla española, and gambas al ajillo, followed by sweet and crispy churros. Finally, \u003cstrong>Apple Fritter\u003c/strong> in San Mateo is a haven for breakfast lovers, featuring playful takes on morning classics, including donut burgers, Nutella-stuffed French toast, and ube cake donuts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_23355\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-23355 size-medium\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/CPBA_1913_Guests-800x533.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/CPBA_1913_Guests-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/CPBA_1913_Guests-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/CPBA_1913_Guests-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/CPBA_1913_Guests-768x512.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/CPBA_1913_Guests-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2025/02/CPBA_1913_Guests.png 1620w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco joins guests Adam Risman, Noelani Meteyry and Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin from KQED in San Francisco.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Get Restaurant Information:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.fikscue.com/\">\u003cstrong>Fikscue\u003c/strong> (Alameda)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://thepawnshopsf.com/\">\u003cstrong>The Pawnshop\u003c/strong> (San Francisco)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.applefrittereatery.com/\">\u003cstrong>Apple Fritter\u003c/strong> (San Mateo)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>Episode Transcript\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Indonesian barbecue heaven in Alameda.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> The dino ribs are insane.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Come on in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> A one-of-a-kind tapas bar in San Francisco.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Salt pops—boom, boom, boom—from the salmon roe.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And decadent brunch delights in San Mateo.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> That dish always leaves clean.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Just ahead on \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> I gotta come back next time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Pass the rib!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Hi, I’m Leslie Sbrocco. Welcome to \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area,\u003c/em> the show where Bay Area residents review and talk about their favorite restaurants. Now we have three guests, and each one recommends one of their favorite spots. And the other two go check them out to see what they think.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Joining me at the \u003cem>Check, Please!\u003c/em> table today are Marketing Director \u003cstrong>Adam Risman\u003c/strong>, Mental-Health Wellness Director \u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin\u003c/strong>, and Analyst \u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry\u003c/strong>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Welcome, everyone. Are you ready for a good show?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>All:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Adam grew up in Texas, so when it comes to barbecue, he’s got some pretty strong opinions. Lately, he’s been raving about an Indonesian barbecue spot he claims has the best smoked meats west of the Panhandle. Located in Alameda, it’s \u003cstrong>Fikscue Craft BBQ\u003c/strong>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> Fikscue Craft BBQ is an amazing experience of Texas craft barbecue along with Indonesian dishes. So our smoked brisket right here, your Nasi Goreng, your Rendang Plate. And it’s halal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> Reka’s always been cooking at home. And then one day we had an argument—she didn’t want to cook. So I figured, let me learn how to cook myself in the backyard.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Just one more of the beef back.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> I was actually really shocked because he’s never in the kitchen with me, and all of a sudden he started doing gyros, rotisserie chicken, you name it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I was on a mission to prove her wrong. I would practice on cooking brisket and there were a lot of leftovers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> That’s when she comes in and says, “Let me redo this into an Indonesian dish.” That’s how it all started, basically.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> With Texas barbecue, time and patience, I would say, is the key. Brisket is kind of delicate. If it’s a little under, it’s going to be a little tough. If it’s a little over, it could be a little mushy. That balance in between is what we’re looking for.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> We call it the jiggle.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> [Laughs] Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> [Laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> It looks amazing. I need two people to carry it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> My recipes came from my mom, but of course I made it my own. [Laughs] One of our most popular dishes is the Rendang plate. It has over 20 different spices. It takes three days to cook it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> There’s going to be a line just like a traditional Texas barbecue spot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> Welcome, welcome. Normally, people start coming, like, before we open at 12:00—11:30 or whatnot, then became 11:00, became 10:30, became 10:00. I think the record holder now is 9:00.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Welcome, this is our smoked brisket.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> When you’re in line, you’re waiting for that door to open. I see people mingle, make new friends, and that’s what we love to see.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Fik Saleh:\u003c/strong> I see you got a little bit of everything. I want them to be satisfied that the line is worth waiting. That’s our goal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man #2:\u003c/strong> Awesome.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> Alright.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man #2:\u003c/strong> Thank you so much.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Reka Saleh:\u003c/strong> No, thank you. Enjoy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, Adam, from Texas, you’ve got some pretty high standards, I think, for barbecue, huh?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> There’s a lot of good barbecue out here in the Bay. And there’s a gap from really good to really, really great.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You found the really, really great.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Found the really, really great with something that also sets it apart with the Indonesian side of the house as well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What do you order when you go get your barbecue?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Too much food. [Laughter] Brisket is always the standard at a barbecue place, and part of the reason why the line exists is everything is sliced by hand by Fik when you get to the counter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And when you are ordering your brisket, you get a chance to sort of say like, “Hey, I really like the lean slices of meat. I like the fattier cuts. I’d like some burnt ends if you have them,” at the right time when they pull out that fresh slab.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I always go with the fatty cut myself. It cuts with the fork, gets nice and moist, and that’s just all that rendered fat where all the flavor comes from. So do they have great barbecue sauce? Yes. Do you need it? I don’t think so.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Okay. Hang on. I’m going to see if we have some dissension or agreement over here. What about you, Noelani?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Oh, I totally agree about the brisket, but I did have to go with the sauce. I really love the orange sauce that they gave, but I also was a big fan of the jalapeño-cheddar sausage. There was like real cheese that oozed out of it. And again, with the orange sauce is the way to go.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Is the way to go. Amaal, what do you think?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> Yeah. No, I was really impressed with the service—they got it down to a tee. When you get your order, they prepare it perfectly. They know what to do. The dino ribs are insane.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I got, like, a smaller dino rib. It was still over a pound on the scale.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> It’s per pound, and you have to get minimum one. So, like, that might be the maximum you need because they are huge, but that meat just falls off the bones, super tender.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I agree with Adam that you don’t need sauce, but the sauce is super delicious. It’s got the nice Indonesian spices in the barbecue sauce. If they bottled that barbecue sauce, I would get it for sure.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So it just all goes super well together.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> I missed out on the dino rib. I guess they sold out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Ah!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> But I did want to try it because it really looked like a dinosaur’s ribs. They were huge. I saw a whole family just sharing one. I’m like, “Okay, I gotta come back next time.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Pass the rib! [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> So the brisket I got, I did get on the Rendang plate, which comes with some crispy rice crackers and other sides and a fried egg, like a combination of textures and flavors that all goes super well together.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And so that one came with a little green sambal sauce. That’s what I dipped my brisket in. I thought that combination of the brisket with the sambal was really good, so smart.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> I love that Rendang plate. To me, that’s kind of where the Indonesian and barbecue sides really come together, because Rendang is typically like maybe a chuck roast, right? Something that cooks very slowly, shreds apart, and it takes days to make this curry that this meat is cooked in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But it’s the chopped, smoked brisket that’s in there instead. So it adds that extra level of smokiness into the earthy Rendang curry.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And then what did you think of that curried kale that comes on the side? Because I love that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> Yeah. That was super good. Lots of flavor. It’s such a good texture for kale because kale can be kind of tough. But the kale curry was super tender, easy to chew, and enjoy all the flavors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> I also had the chicken, which was the thigh and the leg, which of course is the best part.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Mm-hmm.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> It was really good with a crispy skin with pepper, and I’m a huge pepper fan.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And the coleslaw, I’m not usually a fan of coleslaw or peanut sauce, which is in it, but this worked. The peanut flavor was not overpowering. It was really subtle, and they had these little crunchy things in it. So the texture paired really well with the chicken.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> A good counterpoint.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> So on the Indonesian side, the Batagor is a favorite for my family when we go. That’s these fried vegetarian dumplings that are tossed in this rich, spicy peanut sauce, the same sauce they use on the slaw.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The dumplings are delicious themselves, but that sauce—like whatever we can find that we still have on our plate, we’re using to get the rest of that peanut sauce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What else should they get?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Did anyone have the Nasi Goreng, the fried rice?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> I did.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> So that is my favorite go-to side. It’s got these little bits of corned beef in there that give it a little like fermented funkiness. There’s egg in there, fresh vegetables. I have to get that every single time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now, did you have anything to drink alongside that to wash that down?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> When I went, it happened to be Indonesian Independence Day. And so they had a Rose soda, which was really interesting. I liked it because it was pink. And I happened to be wearing pink, so it matched my outfit.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Of course.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> But it was a really unique flavor, and it was refreshing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> So it is right next door to a brewery. Convenient, you can bring the food inside, and then a nice IPA pairs really well with barbecue.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yes. [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Right, so you can take it over there and go sit down.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Exactly, yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Any dessert or dessert drinks?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Did I have room for dessert? Absolutely not. Did I still order banana pudding? Yes, it was worth it. [Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>That sort of smooth texture from the banana pudding was a really nice kind of change of pace from the meatiness of barbecue. There were fresh slices of banana in it and that one sort of classic vanilla wafer on top, a little bit of crumbled wafer as well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> So I did have a kind of dessert-like drink called a Cendol, which had pandan flavors and coconut milk and tapioca things you could chew on that had good texture and were also sweet. And so I think it was a great dessert, and I really enjoyed it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And do you feel like with all that food that you got good value?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> Definitely, yeah. The food that we ordered, just my friend and I, we had extras that I brought home and my mom could try it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And do you feel like with all that food that you got good value?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> Definitely, yeah. The food that we ordered, just my friend and I, we had extras that I brought home, and my mom could try it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And similarly, she lived in Texas, too, and she thought it was as good as brisket in Texas that she’s had. So it definitely reaches the bar.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah, you definitely have to be there early, though. Like, I was there on a Saturday at 1:30, and things were selling out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So it’s no joke that they say line up early if you want all your pickings because they sell out fast.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, well, if you would like to try Fikscue Craft BBQ, it’s located on Park Street in Alameda, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $55.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Step inside the pawnshop facade of Noelani’s restaurant, and you’d think you’re in the wrong place.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Well, hello, gorgeouses.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Once you’re through the hidden door, though, you’ll find the speakeasy vibe, art deco bar, and the creative Spanish-inspired bites all set the stage for a memorable night out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Located in San Francisco’s SoMa neighborhood, it’s The Pawnshop.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> The Pawnshop is an experiential speakeasy. Once you walk through these doors, it’s like you’re on a different planet.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[applause]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We are located on the corner of Sixth and Mission. It was a pawnshop for 40 years. It was called Money Loaned.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We still have the sign up above.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Hello, gorgeous. Welcome. Let’s see what you got.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> So when you come to The Pawnshop, you have to bring either a tchotchke or a family heirloom if you want to.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> A rubber chicken?! How did you know I needed a new one in my life? I love it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> A joke, a dance—bring something to the Pawnmaster. Because if you don’t do that, you’re going to be in a lot of trouble.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Used chapstick? [Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> The craziest thing we’ve ever been given was when somebody brought in a kitchen sink.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We were like, “Really? Everything and the kitchen sink?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> If I push a few buttons, do a little this, a little of that, it should be ready to go.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Come on in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[door clicks]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Welcome to The Pawnshop.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[cheers and applause]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrons:\u003c/strong> Hey!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Damien Chabaud-Arnault:\u003c/strong> I come from a French background. And us from the south of France, we used to go to Barcelona for the night just to go party and have a good time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And when we built this space, the way we wanted to do it is the communal eating.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> It’s really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Damien Chabaud-Arnault:\u003c/strong> And how we do that back in Spain, it’s loud. There’s joy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[cheering]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The food that we have here, we chose to have tapas, the small plates meant to be shared.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We took all the stars from the Catalan and the Spanish culture.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Tomato, olive oil, just a little garlic. Whoa!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So the classic Pan con Tomate.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[griddle sizzling]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The octopus, Pulpo a la Plancha.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Gambas al Ajillo, which is also exceptionally classic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> One thing that’s great about Pawnshop is that we’re open until 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and there’s not a lot of restaurants in San Francisco that are staying open that late.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[cheers and applause]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In The Pawnshop, too, there’s a lot of little Easter eggs and things that are super fun.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So there’s a mirror over there where you can watch your friends come in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Hey!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrons:\u003c/strong> Hey!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> There’s a karaoke room. There are secret passageways. It’ll take you to a different spot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And away they go.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There are performances that will happen when you’re least expecting it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Damien Chabaud-Arnault:\u003c/strong> We put sun in their life. We put a smile on their face.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We’re on stage when we’re here.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And I see the light on their face. I’m like, I get the shiver right now.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I’m like, “Yes, we did it.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[glass clinking]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, Noelani, how did you find the secret door?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> I found it by accident, to be honest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So you walk up to the door.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Take us through it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> So you walk up through the door, you’re first confused because you’re like, “Wait, this is a pawnshop.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Well, hello, everybody.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> You’re not thinking that it’s a restaurant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I got there early. So I was there before the restaurant was open.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I’m just, like, hanging out on Mission in front of this store. I’m like, “Am I in the right place? Am I even going to have dinner tonight?” [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But that’s kind of the fun of it. Is not even telling someone the name of the restaurant. It’s just giving them an address, and then they’re kind of confused.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> I found the Pawnmaster to basically be a method actor. You don’t know what questions you’re going to be asked. Is this a 10-second exchange, or am I going to have to navigate 5 minutes of conversation? It’s a little tricky to get in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. What do you go for?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Okay, so it’s tapas style. I really like the Gambas al Ajillo, garlic shrimp. The shrimp is in garlic and butter. You can’t go wrong with that. And on top of it, they give you bread.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So the minute the shrimp are gone, everyone’s fighting for the bread to dip it in the sauce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> I’m glad you mentioned that shrimp. That was, to me, the most standout dish. It’s these delicately poached shrimp in this sherry vinegar broth. And then they have these thinly mandoline-sliced garlic chips floating around in the broth. And I didn’t discover those right away. And then as soon as I did, I was just spooning that over the top of the shrimp.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> That dish always leaves clean.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Right.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Also, another favorite is the Patatas Bravas. Can’t go wrong with crispy potatoes and sauce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. What about you, Amaal?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> I was really excited for the Pulpo a la Plancha because I love octopus. That was grilled to perfection and had a nice pickled veg and a squid ink aioli. That all went really well together.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And it’s fun doing tapas style in an atmosphere like this certainly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it’s fun to have so much on your table. Gets to be a little bit overwhelming if you overdo it like we maybe did. But I really loved the Tortilla Española. It was the classic egg omelet, although it was really elevated from there.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It had this spoon of crème fraîche on top, and then a really generous portion of salmon roe sprinkled on top, as well as these crunchy potato chips.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So texturally, you had this soft egg, the sourness of the crème fraîche, and then these salt pops—boom, boom, boom—from the salmon roe. It was really nice.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And what did you drink with it?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> I had some very good wine. I was impressed by the amount of options they had by the glass. Some more choices than you typically have. And I wanted to go with the Tempranillo because we’re in a tapas restaurant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You’re in Spain.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> I did have the Seasonal Sangria, which had little apple cubes and sliced-up citrus in it and had a hint of clove.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So it’s really nice—seasonal, fruity, slightly spicy with the clove.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And sangria goes with every dish on the table.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> So I also wanted to mention the Vegan Chicharrón. They’re huge, but they’re like wafer-thin, and they’re salty and crispy and sweet and almost better than regular chicharrones.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> That’s good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> And I also had the duck pâté, and that comes with some cherries and some herbs. Also, the little toasts—you can make a little bite with the pâté and the cherries and herbs. That’s just a perfectly composed little bite that you make yourself.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> So a must-get dish is the hanger steak. It comes with potatoes and mushrooms. First of all, the steak is cooked to perfection. Seasoned well, it’s juicy, tender. The mushrooms are a beautiful accompaniment. And then the potatoes—the skin is crispy but still juicy on the inside. You just can’t go wrong with steak and potatoes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What about dessert?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Oh, I have to get the churros every time. So I went there for a birthday. And it’s fun because when they brought out the churros, they sang Happy Birthday and had a little candle. But what I really like about the churros is that they’re super light.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So even if you’re full, you’re like, “Well, I’ll have one just to, you know, have in my dessert stomach,” and then you can dip it in the chocolate sauce and it’s just really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> I did also have the churros, but I had the cheese dessert, which is a triple cream—kind of like a Brie, but it’s got a bloomy rind. And then it’s also served with these fancy cherries and a honeycomb. I was surprised how much I loved this cheese because it was a little funky.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And I don’t always like funky cheeses, but it’s also with a little toast with cheese, the cherries, and the honeycomb. And it was just so good. Like, cheese for dessert is just fantastic. I had—I had dreams about that cheese that night.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> I’ll have to try that next time. [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So do you think this is a good bang for the buck?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Totally. You leave there happy. And you leave there wanting to talk about it with your friends.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I’d say the same. Just remember, you can always order more. So maybe don’t do what we did and order everything at once. And from there, you’ll leave in a good spot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And did you get your pawn item back on the way out?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> I didn’t get my pawn item back, but when I pawned my item, he gave me a different item back. I got this little robot with little guns.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Ah! There you go!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Where’s my robot?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> [Laughing] I love it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Well, if you would like to try The Pawnshop, it’s located on Mission Street in San Francisco, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $40.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Amaal rounds out our show with yet another hidden gem.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s a quirky little café housed in a former Taco Bell where decadent doughnuts, killer breakfast sandos, and creamy milkshakes are the stuff of Amaal’s comfort food dreams.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Located in San Mateo, it’s Apple Fritter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>John Chow:\u003c/strong> Apple Fritter is a homey place where you can bring your family, your friends, your kids.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s a great place for everybody.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Hi. How are you guys?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I grew up doing doughnuts my whole life. My parents fled a war in Cambodia. They came to this country to start a new life. They had friends that had sponsored them and helped them create a doughnut business.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A lot of times my parents would bring me to the shop.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I’d sneak myself into the doughnut counter, steal an apple fritter, [laughs] and then take a huge bite before they found out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The restaurant used to be an old Taco Bell, and growing up, I used to come here all the time, and I actually thought, “Oh, maybe I’ll open up this place and eventually convert it into maybe a breakfast place.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The inspiration for the decorations really came from who I am. I like strange, unique kind of things. I like having fun.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We actually make all of our doughnuts in-house. People don’t realize a lot of the times we have more than just an apple fritter. So we have like chocolate doughnuts, ube, red velvet, almond pistachio—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Even plain old-fashioned is really, surprisingly, good. [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Breakfast Luther—it came from this cartoon. I thought it was the funniest thing ever, and they incorporated a doughnut burger.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Robert:\u003c/strong> The Luther!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>John Chow:\u003c/strong> I decided to actually create it, and eventually it became a hit.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Fruity Pebbles!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As a child, I loved Fruity Pebbles, and one of my favorite creations was probably adding it to the milkshakes because, uh, why not? [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patron:\u003c/strong> This is really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>John Chow:\u003c/strong> I really love what I do.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I come to work, and it doesn’t feel like work.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrons:\u003c/strong> Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>John Chow:\u003c/strong> It’s one of the greatest feelings when people come to your restaurant, bring their friends in, and just have a good time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, Amaal, do you like breakfast?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Are you a breakfast-every-day kind of person?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I love getting a really full, big breakfast—it’s always the best.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And this place has it all, doesn’t it?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> It does. My favorite dish is the Luther Breakfast Burger. It’s a burger on a doughnut with a fried egg—fried perfectly. When you bite into it, the yolk oozes out of the top of the doughnut onto the plate.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can dip your hash browns in the egg—it’s so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> I was scared to order that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Just because I’m like, “Doughnut, burger—heart attack?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Um, no, but I’m so glad that I did because it ended up being my favorite dish that I ordered, and I ended up sharing it. So it wasn’t too much, but it was really good. I never would have thought to do that, but the salty and sweet combination—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Does the doughnut get soggy?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> They grill the doughnuts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> No, they grill them.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Ah, okay. There you go.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> They grill it, so it held together really well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And just the flavors were really, really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. What did you have, Adam?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> So I got cold feet on the doughnut sandwich.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But the reason for that, which I think is very valid, is right before you get to the register where you order, there is essentially a wall of doughnuts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And there are just so many amazing doughnut options.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Did you get the apple fritter?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> I had the blueberry fritter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> It was large enough for four of us to share. Everyone can kind of pull apart their individual piece. And it had that thick glaze that kind of cracks just the way you want it, but then the inside of the fritter was super cakey and soft.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Mm-hmm.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah, you can’t leave there without getting an apple fritter. They do sell out. So hopefully you can get one while you’re there. But if you’re there, definitely get an apple fritter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I’m also—I’m a scramble girly. So I had to get the chicken apple sausage scramble. And usually when you go to places, it’s like maybe a couple of pieces.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But this was overwhelming with how much sausage they put in, as well as spinach and everything. So the portions are really nice.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And we also had sandwiches. The bread that they put with the sandwich is really spectacular.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you get any sandwiches?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Well, yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Or you stuck—okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> I had the Pigs Gone Wild Sandwich.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And it was really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It had that toast that you mentioned, and then three pieces of flat-top griddled bacon. There were grilled mushrooms on there, fresh eggs, cheese. And to me, what can make or break a breakfast sandwich is really how hot it is when it gets to the plate.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And this came straight off that grill onto our table. And when you bit into it, the crunch from the bacon, the soft eggs, the gooey cheese—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Just kind of everything all at once, it was awesome.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Is that a sandwich you get?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> I have not had that sandwich, but I also do get lunch there sometimes. Like, I really like their Rachel. It’s like a Reuben, but with turkey instead of pastrami, and it’s really good. And I get that with their homemade potato chips. I don’t know if you guys got a chance to try the homemade potato chips, but—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman & Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> No.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> So yeah, they are really good for lunch, too.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And I hear the milkshakes are something.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> They are. I had the pineapple milkshake. It was tart and sweet and creamy—super delicious. They make all their milkshakes with frozen custard, so they’re super good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> I had the espresso milkshake, which was really great because I can’t have breakfast without coffee. Good flavor. And I got to split—between a number of people, wasn’t just me—the banana one. Really great fresh banana, nothing artificial tasting in it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It would definitely have passed the old Dairy Queen test where if you flipped it upside down, nothing was coming out, right? But it wasn’t so thick that it was a lot of work to actually enjoy the milkshake.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>John Chow:\u003c/strong> Okay, maybe it’s a little too thick.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> It was awesome.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I’m really dreaming about that pineapple milkshake now, I gotta be honest with you. [Laughing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> But they do have a good espresso coffee bar, and I usually get the Vanilla Lavender Latte. It’s not too vanilla-y or too lavender-y, and they’re all made super hot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> I’ll say that the Nutella French Toast—that is dessert on a plate because it’s so decadent. And I really liked that they even took the time to cook the bananas, which most places don’t do. But here, it really brought out the flavors. Everyone loves Nutella, so putting that, bananas, powdered sugar on French toast—if you have a sweet tooth, that’s the way to go.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Even if you don’t have a sweet tooth when you walk into this place, you will have one when you walk out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Oh, for sure.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you lived nearby, you’d be there a lot more, right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Even if you don’t live nearby.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Laughter]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s a good place, especially after a night of drinking, and you want a good meal to get you up and ready for the weekend—it’s a good place.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It’s your splurge spot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> You might take the long way to the airport just to circle through there and grab a shake before a flight.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you would like to try Apple Fritter, it’s located on Norfolk Street in San Mateo, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $20.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Looking for more Bay Area bites you’ve just got to try?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> [Laughs]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Check out \u003cem>Cecilia Tries It\u003c/em> online at \u003ca href=\"http://kqed.org/checkplease\" target=\"_new\" rel=\"noopener\">kqed.org/checkplease\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> [Laughs] Mmm!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I have to thank my great guests on this week’s show—\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman,\u003c/strong> who devours the dino beef ribs at Fikscue Craft BBQ in Alameda.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Amaal Greenwood-Goodwin,\u003c/strong> lover of the Breakfast Luther Doughnut Sandwich at Apple Fritter in San Mateo.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And \u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry,\u003c/strong> who gave us the inside scoop on The Pawnshop in San Francisco.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Join us next time when three more guests will recommend their favorite spots right here on \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I’m \u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco,\u003c/strong> and I’ll see you then.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yay!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Adam Risman:\u003c/strong> Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And cheers to you!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Did you have fun?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Noelani Meteyry:\u003c/strong> Yes!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Cheers! Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[music playing]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Alright, now let’s see. What did you bring me?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Damien Chabaud-Arnault:\u003c/strong> You would not believe how much stuff we get.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> One time, somebody tried to pawn their child off, but that was just for jokes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>One time, somebody tried to pawn their fiancée off. That was for real.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> I have a 3-D printed genie bottle.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> I’m going to trade you for—you’re going to get some love in your life.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man #2:\u003c/strong> Oh!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> Oh, you can never have enough love.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man #2:\u003c/strong> That’s going to go a long way.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Michael Anthony Levitt:\u003c/strong> So we’re always getting crazy stuff.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> How’s everyone doing?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrons:\u003c/strong> Gorgeous!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Pawnmaster:\u003c/strong> Welcome, welcome, welcome.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[Cheers and applause]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Kick off the new year with a fresh lineup of Bay Area dining discoveries! \u003c/span>\u003cb>Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">, KQED’s beloved James Beard and Emmy-winning series, is back this February with a new batch of must-try local restaurants. Whether you’re diving into your culinary resolutions to try something new or searching for the perfect Valentine’s date spot, we’ve got you covered.\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Each week, three locals join host Leslie Sbrocco to share their favorite neighborhood gems, check out each other’s picks, and dish on their dining adventures. From Indonesian-Texas fusion to East Coast Jewish deli favorites, we’ve scoured the Bay Area to find the season’s standout spots.\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Tune in for four tasty new episodes, \u003c/span>\u003cb>Thursdays beginning February 6 at 7:30pm on KQED 9\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">.\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Here’s a sneak peek at what’s on the menu:\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c!-- iframe plugin v.4.3 wordpress.org/plugins/iframe/ -->\u003cbr>\n\u003ciframe loading=\"lazy\" width=\"315\" height=\"560\" src=\"https://www.youtube.com/embed/YsCPu6Easl0\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" scrolling=\"yes\" class=\"iframe-class\">\u003c/iframe>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>February 6\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Traditional Indonesian flavors meet Texas barbecue with highlights such as dino ribs, smoked brisket, and nasi goreng at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Fikscue\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Alameda)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Guests trade a trinket for entry to enjoy tapas including tortilla española and jamón serrano at \u003c/span>\u003cb>The Pawnshop\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (San Francisco)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Playful takes on breakfast classics, from donut burgers to Nutella-stuffed french toast, at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Apple Fritter\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (San Mateo)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>February 13\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> East Coast Jewish deli favorites, including matzo ball soup, pickled fish boards and cinnamon babka, at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Grossman’s Noshery & Bar\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Santa Rosa)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Soulful comfort dishes, from fall-off-the-bone oxtails to creamy mac and cheese, at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Jackie’s Place\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (San Jose)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Fresh Californian-inspired American cuisine featuring pork belly buns and succulent red wine-braised short ribs at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Crescent Bistro\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Pleasant Hill)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">“Cecilia Tries It” explores fresh produce, local goods and culinary delights at the historic \u003c/span>\u003cb>Ferry Plaza Farmers Market\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (San Francisco)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>February 20\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Bold and aromatic Laotian flavors such as papaya salad and crispy pork belly at the vibrant \u003c/span>\u003cb>Bhan Mae Vane\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Alameda)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Italian-American comfort food in quirky digs, including Cadillac lasagna and steak served with pesto spaghetti, at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (San Francisco)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">An artfully curated selection of wines and cocktails paired with shareable plates from tender lamb meatballs to creamy elote at \u003c/span>\u003cb>District\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Oakland)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>February 27\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A creative take on soulful comfort food like hoecake, gumbo fries and grilled shrimp po’boys at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Gumbo Social\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (San Francisco)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Decadent dishes, from lobster pot pie to crème brûlée French toast, paired with stunning waterfront views at \u003c/span>\u003cb>The Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Tiburon)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">An inventive and fresh take on farm-to-table offerings, including “ugly” mushroom-filled pasta and Hokkaido milk bread rolls, at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Pomet\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Oakland)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Got a favorite restaurant we haven’t featured yet? Now’s your chance to share it! We’re gearing up for the next round of guests and want your must-try spots in the spotlight. Nominate your top picks and apply to join us as a guest at \u003c/span>\u003ca href=\"http://kqed.org/checkplease/apply\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">kqed.org/checkplease/apply\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">. And if you have a pick in the Carmel or Monterey area we’d especially like to hear from you! \u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>February 6\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Traditional Indonesian flavors meet Texas barbecue with highlights such as dino ribs, smoked brisket, and nasi goreng at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Fikscue\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Alameda)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Guests trade a trinket for entry to enjoy tapas including tortilla española and jamón serrano at \u003c/span>\u003cb>The Pawnshop\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (San Francisco)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Playful takes on breakfast classics, from donut burgers to Nutella-stuffed french toast, at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Apple Fritter\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (San Mateo)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>February 13\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> East Coast Jewish deli favorites, including matzo ball soup, pickled fish boards and cinnamon babka, at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Grossman’s Noshery & Bar\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Santa Rosa)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Soulful comfort dishes, from fall-off-the-bone oxtails to creamy mac and cheese, at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Jackie’s Place\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (San Jose)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Fresh Californian-inspired American cuisine featuring pork belly buns and succulent red wine-braised short ribs at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Crescent Bistro\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Pleasant Hill)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">“Cecilia Tries It” explores fresh produce, local goods and culinary delights at the historic \u003c/span>\u003cb>Ferry Plaza Farmers Market\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (San Francisco)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>February 20\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Bold and aromatic Laotian flavors such as papaya salad and crispy pork belly at the vibrant \u003c/span>\u003cb>Bhan Mae Vane\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Alameda)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Italian-American comfort food in quirky digs, including Cadillac lasagna and steak served with pesto spaghetti, at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (San Francisco)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">An artfully curated selection of wines and cocktails paired with shareable plates from tender lamb meatballs to creamy elote at \u003c/span>\u003cb>District\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Oakland)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>February 27\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A creative take on soulful comfort food like hoecake, gumbo fries and grilled shrimp po’boys at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Gumbo Social\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (San Francisco)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Decadent dishes, from lobster pot pie to crème brûlée French toast, paired with stunning waterfront views at \u003c/span>\u003cb>The Bungalow Kitchen\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Tiburon)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">An inventive and fresh take on farm-to-table offerings, including “ugly” mushroom-filled pasta and Hokkaido milk bread rolls, at \u003c/span>\u003cb>Pomet\u003c/b>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Oakland)\u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Got a favorite restaurant we haven’t featured yet? Now’s your chance to share it! We’re gearing up for the next round of guests and want your must-try spots in the spotlight. Nominate your top picks and apply to join us as a guest at \u003c/span>\u003ca href=\"http://kqed.org/checkplease/apply\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">kqed.org/checkplease/apply\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">. And if you have a pick in the Carmel or Monterey area we’d especially like to hear from you! \u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"title": "Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: ROOH, The Barn, Kusan Uyghur Cuisine",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/em>season 19, episode 12, airs Thursday, November 28, at 7:30 pm, on KQED 9. See other \u003ca href=\"http://www.kqed.org/tv/programs/index.jsp?pgmid=14084\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">television airtimes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">On this episode of \u003c/span>\u003ci>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/span>\u003c/i>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">our guests start their culinary adventure in Palo Alto at \u003cstrong>ROOH\u003c/strong>, a modern Indian restaurant where traditional flavors meet innovative techniques in dishes like paneer chili rolls, jackfruit toast and chicken tikka kulcha. Next, they head to \u003cstrong>The Barn\u003c/strong> in Half Moon Bay, a rustic, farm-to-table eatery offering seasonal American comfort food, from juicy burgers with barn-pickled jalapeños to fried mac and cheese, all enjoyed in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. The journey continues in San Jose at \u003cstrong>Kusan Uyghur Cuisine\u003c/strong>, where diners experience the rich, bold flavors of Central Asian dishes like hand-pulled noodles and big plate chicken. Finally, reporter Cecilia Phillips visits the \u003cstrong>Fork’n Good Food Festival\u003c/strong> in Rohnert Park, where she samples a diverse array of gourmet eats, from local Sonoma bites to globally inspired street food.\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_23282\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-23282\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/10/CPBA_1912_Guests-800x533.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/10/CPBA_1912_Guests-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/10/CPBA_1912_Guests-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/10/CPBA_1912_Guests-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/10/CPBA_1912_Guests-768x512.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/10/CPBA_1912_Guests-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/10/CPBA_1912_Guests.png 1620w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco joins guests Avani Tumuluri, Jacob Gorneau and Eliza Bulanti from KQED in San Francisco.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Get Restaurant Information:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://roohrestaurants.com/\">\u003cstrong>ROOH\u003c/strong> (Palo Alto)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.thebarnhmb.com/\">\u003cstrong>The Barn\u003c/strong> (Half Moon Bay)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://kusanuyghur.com/\">\u003cstrong>Kusan Uyghur Cuisine\u003c/strong> (San Jose)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.thesocomarket.com/forkn-good-food-festival\">\u003cstrong>Fork’n Good Food Festival\u003c/strong> (Rohnert Park)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_20123\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-20123\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2019/04/Leslie-Headshot-Smokey-copy-800x540.jpg\" alt=\"Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine\" width=\"800\" height=\"540\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine \u003ccite>(Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the \u003ca href=\"http://ww2.kqed.org/checkplease/host-biography/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">host\u003c/a> of \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-23332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-800x906.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"906\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-800x906.jpeg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-1020x1155.jpeg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-160x181.jpeg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-768x869.jpeg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-1357x1536.jpeg 1357w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-1809x2048.jpeg 1809w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-1920x2174.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.scaiawine.com/en/product/scaia-garganega-e-chardonnay\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003cstrong>Scaia 2022 Garganega / Chardonnay\u003c/strong>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003cem>Trevenezie IGT, Italy $15\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Looking for a deliciously light and bright white that still shows character? This affordable wine is one to buy in batches. Enjoy it as an aperitif or serve it alongside fish in lemon sauce, fried calamari, and fresh salads. The grape variety Chardonnay is familiar, but the native Italian white grape Garganega is known to Italian wine lovers for making sassy Soave and other Veneto whites. Their perfect pairing is what makes the wine so special.\u003c/span>\u003cem>\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://benoviawinery.com/\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003cstrong>Benovia 2019 “Blanc de Blancs” Sparkling Wine\u003c/strong>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003cbr>\n\u003c/span>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003cem>Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California $60\u003c/em>\u003cbr>\nAs one of California’s most highly regarded Pinot Noir and Chardonnay producers, Benovia is a Sonoma star. Its richly styled sparkling white has expressive aromas of lemon cream pie, peach blossom, and toasted nuts. It’s a wine to start the meal and continue enjoying throughout, whether you’re serving a hearty brunch casserole or a dinner of veal scallopini or pork loin. Elegance in your glass — all with the pop of a cork.\u003cbr>\n\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.estournel.com/en/\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003cstrong>G d’Estournel 2020\u003c/strong>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003cem>Médoc, Bordeaux, France $39\u003c/em>\u003cbr>\nOne of France’s heralded Bordeaux reds is Cos d’Estournel. Opulent and ageworthy, it’s a coveted collector wine. An alluring alternative that shares the same heritage without the same price tag is G d’Estournel. The appealing front label tells a story all its own. According to their website, “G d’Estournel evokes the wonderment of an explorer returned home from the Far East, his soul replete with luminous memories of majestic Indian elephants, shimmering Burmese gold, the finest of Nepalese silks, the warm glow of Vietnamese lanterns.” Each vintage is a slightly different blend of red Bordeaux grapes, but the stylish 2020 is Merlot dominant with a splash of Cabernet Sauvignon. Plush and subtly smooth, it is a red to relish.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Episode Transcript\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Contemporary Indian plates in Palo Alto.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Did it live up to the hype?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> It so lived up.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Burgers al fresco in Half Moon Bay\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> The bread makes the sandwich.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> The bread makes the sandwich.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And Central Asian cuisine in San Jose.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> And it really knocked my socks off.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Just ahead on “Check, Please! Bay Area.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> You heard it here first. This smacks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Humberto Segura:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it smacks. \u003cem>[laughs]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Hi, I’m Leslie Sbrocco. Welcome to “Check, Please! Bay Area,” the show where Bay Area residents review and talk about their favorite restaurants. Now, we have three guests, and each one recommends one of their favorite spots, and the other two go check them out to see what they think. Joining me at the “Check, Please!” table today are three very studious guests—dental student Avani Tumuluri, psychology and brain science student Eliza Bulanti, and scorpion researcher grad student Jacob Gorneau.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Thank you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Thanks for having me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Avani’s restaurant offers a tempting fusion of Indian and California cuisine. Add in Ayurveda-inspired cocktails, vibrant decor, and it’s the perfect place for a family dinner or a first date. Located in downtown Palo Alto, it’s ROOH.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Apurva Panchal:\u003c/strong> Rooh means “soul” in Persian, and in India also.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Abi Capristo:\u003c/strong> I think ROOH is passion. It’s passion for food, it’s passion for hospitality, it’s passion for putting a twist on traditional food that goes back hundreds of years.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Apurva Panchal:\u003c/strong> Alright? Perfect. I grew up in Mumbai. I’m Gujarati. Our food culture was something which had sweet, sour, and spicy—all umami flavors together. At ROOH, we have covered all the regions of India and many lost recipes which people have forgotten to cook.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Abi Capristo:\u003c/strong> We always like to think of nostalgic, but we wrapped it in this beautiful presentation with these vibrant colors and just a tiny bit of a modern twist to all these beautiful traditional dishes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> Oh! Yo!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Apurva Panchal:\u003c/strong> Also the street food which people used to enjoy during their childhood. That first taste takes them to their childhood memories of family or the place where I was born.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Abi Capristo:\u003c/strong> We all know that Indian cuisine is a lot of vegetarian items, but I think we’ve turned it into such a fun and exciting way of eating vegetarian food that never gets old. It’s always amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Apurva Panchal:\u003c/strong> In Sanskrit, we always say Atithi Devo Bhava. That means the guests should be treated like God. That’s how we follow it as part of our hospitality culture.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Abi Capristo:\u003c/strong> It’s so great when people walk in, they’re like, “This is my first time here and I have to be back.” You know, it’s exciting to see people be excited.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, Avani. I mean, this place is really a creative take, right, on Indian street food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah. I think that I love that it’s a progressive Indian cuisine, but it kind of has a mix of the inspiration of California culture with the Indian culture. I love the decor. I love the atmosphere. You walk in, and it’s just like this shroud of reds and these antique decorations and mirrors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It puts you in the mood.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it really puts you in the mood. It really does. I’m ready to eat. I’m ready to have fun.\u003cbr>\n\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You’re ready.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> And I absolutely always go for the Paneer Chili Roll. It looks like a pinwheel, which is really cool because I feel like it marries in the American culture.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Yeah, like a lunch snack.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it’s like a classic Lunchable.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I think it’s a snackable or something.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah! Snackable.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I hear Eliza going, “Yeah, yeah, yeah.” Did you have this as well?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I did, and it was phenomenal. I thought that the flavors and the textures, I loved how they wrapped them all up, because the paneer wasn’t super overwhelming, and the crispiness of the kataifi, too, with kind of the smoothness of the paneer was perfect. And then what really put it over the top for me was the chili garlic chutney that it came with.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> The flavor of that was phenomenal and just paired with the textures, it was a work of art, like every other dish I had here too.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Yeah, absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I had the Assorted Papad, which came with three different chutneys and a bunch of different crispy crackers that were variously seasoned. My favorite one was the chili peanut one. I love peanut flavor, but in particular this peanut was so rich and decadent it almost had like a chocolatey richness to it, which was really delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I loved this menu and that it really emphasized small plates. So my family and I got a lot of them to share, which as an adventurous eater, was so fun for me to get to try so many different things. I think my favorite had to be the Chicken Tikka Kulcha. It was like this warm, round flatbread stuffed with this really flavorful shredded chicken. And then it had this beautiful dollop of za’atar butter and pickled onions on top, and it came out warm so that the butter kind of melted in and the flavors just melded perfectly. It was glorious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So did you get the most of it and then your parents just a little bit?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Exactly. Everyone took a little bite, and I was like, “This one is for me.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> And then I also—probably the most beautiful dish I got was the Potato Tikki Chaat.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> It was like a cube of really thinly sliced potatoes, and it sat atop this yogurt sauce that was almost like a whipped cream consistency, drizzled with a tamarind sauce and some raspberry seeds. The flavors and the textures were incredible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I really like the Jackfruit Toast.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Oh!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I love jackfruit. I feel like if you’re able to season it right, it can be very meaty, and the jackfruit itself is very nicely spiced. And then with that buttery bread on the bottom, oh my gosh.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It’s a nice combination.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I had a Duck Seekh Kebab. I always like duck. I know sometimes people feel like it’s a little on the fatty side of things, but it was just this incredible flavor bomb, the meat itself, and there was some mixed berry chutney on top as well. And so it was really this beautiful balance between tang and spice.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> That sounds amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Definitely my favorite dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did they order right? So far?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> They ordered right.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Okay, good. Okay, good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> My mouth is watering.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> If you guys ever go again, you should definitely order the Malai Broccoli.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Ooh!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Now, I know it sounds like, “Why would I pay for a broccoli?” But it’s this giant piece, and it’s placed on this creamy daal, which is like lentil-based sauce, and it’s very nicely spiced.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Get the broccoli.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I have to try that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I also had a delicious mocktail that went perfectly with the dishes I got. It was the Pink Guava mocktail, and it had these hints of masala spices in it, which I think cut the sweetness of the guava perfectly and really paired nicely with this meal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I’m so excited, ’cause I had the same one.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> No way! Okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> No way! It was so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I tried the Mulberry Sour, which was really refreshing and bright to kind of complement some of those warmer spices. And the thing that really blew my socks off was the Patna Fizz, which is a lychee-flavored cocktail that also has, I believe, some mushroom essence in it. Beautifully purple. Like, it was really amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Wow!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And dessert?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Oh, of course. Of course I had dessert. I always go for the kulfi. If you guys don’t know what it is, it’s sort of an Indian ice cream, and the flavors that they have are like pistachio or saffron, flavors that you wouldn’t really get at your normal supermarket, and it’s just always decorated so beautifully.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> My takeaway was this is amazing. This is a great special-occasion venue. And I wouldn’t necessarily go there on a first date, but I would definitely take someone I really love there and, you know, show my love through these dishes. Like, it’s really a love letter to food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. If you would like to try ROOH, it’s located on University Avenue in Palo Alto, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $60.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Eliza is a big-time burger lover, and she says the absolute best can be found at her casual coastal eatery. Located in Half Moon Bay, it’s The Barn.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Matt Haugen:\u003c/strong> The Barn is casual.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man #2:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Woman:\u003c/strong> Can I steal one of your fries for the dog?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Matt Haugen:\u003c/strong> It’s communal, above all.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrick Hanna:\u003c/strong> It’s put itself on the map as a little oasis and really just part of our ethos, which is…happy people make good food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Woman:\u003c/strong> It’s so delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrick Hanna:\u003c/strong> Matter of fact, I find that the best food is generally the simplest. We make everything that we possibly can, and our ingredients come from local purveyors as much as possible. We make the best burger on the coast. I know that could be an arguable statement, but I’m happy to take on anyone else that wants to challenge it. And it’s not because of some secret ingredient. We use our homemade American cheese, sauces, high-quality bun.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> I like the beef.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrick Hanna:\u003c/strong> For sure, one of the highlights for me and a lot of customers is the veggie burger. We cook down a lot of ingredients, primarily mushrooms and farro for building texture. And I’m not a vegetarian, so I honestly have that with a little bacon on top, and it’s fantastic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Matt Haugen:\u003c/strong> Can we talk about the milkshakes? Because there’s something about the milkshakes which you don’t find anywhere.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrick Hanna:\u003c/strong> It’s Marianne’s Ice Cream from Santa Cruz, and a splash or two of milk just to be able to blend it together. And then we make our own ingredients to create the flavor, so if it’s chocolate, we’ll make separate chocolate ganache that then gets put into the ice cream.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Matt Haugen:\u003c/strong> Of course, homemade whipped cream.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrick Hanna:\u003c/strong> Well, yeah. You need to have that a little bit more fun on top.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Matt Haugen:\u003c/strong> Why not? I mean, for the person who has bacon on a veggie burger…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrick Hanna:\u003c/strong> True.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Matt Haugen:\u003c/strong> …whipped cream on a milkshake is par for the course.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrick Hanna:\u003c/strong> So Half Moon Bay, we are on the coast. Restaurant is about a five-minute walk from the sand. Dutch word, it’s called Gezellig. It means “warm,” “comfortable,” “family,” and that’s what this place means to me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Eliza, this spot feels like, you know, you’ve gone to the beach…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> …you’ve hung out those gorgeous beaches in Half Moon Bay, and now you need something to eat, right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yes. 100%. That’s one of my favorite parts about this restaurant is you can really do it all here, whether that’s after a hike by the beach or just hanging out for the day. You can kind of get a sense of that local vibe that represents the quaint town of Half Moon Bay, I think, really well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. What is your favorite?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Oh, yes. Okay. What’s kept me coming back for years? It’s The Pretender. So although I am a beef hamburger-loving person, The Pretender, it is my must-have here. It’s kind of a hearty patty. It’s filled with farro, mushrooms, flax, garlic, and Parmesan, and I know that so well because I’ve even tried to recreate it at home. It’s that good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> \u003cem>[Laughs]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> And then topped with some white cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, lemon-dressed arugula, fresh tomato on a toasted brioche bun. And a tip given to me years ago by a lovely employee was to add pickled beets as well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And you’re a vegetarian, right? So did you find your way to that dish?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yup. I had The Pretender.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yeah? Okay. What did you think?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I felt like I was pretending to eat a burger. Oh, it was so good. I actually really liked it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What did you have when you went there?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I had a pulled pork sandwich, which was amazing. It was super sweet, super smoky. I have a huge sweet tooth, but I am glad that I ordered the spicy coleslaw on that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I was gonna ask which one you got. You can do it sweet or spicy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I got spicy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Yeah, and the spicy really balanced it out a lot. And, man, the buns themselves were also delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I had the Vegan BBQ one, which I also was a little hesitant about because sometimes, you know, with the vegan versions, you never know. But this one was insane. It was so good ’cause it was with jackfruit.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Jackfruit is so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> It really has like that meaty tenderness.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, and the ciabatta bread? That bread, oh, it was amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I have to mention the What the Cluck sandwich too, because that also comes on the ciabatta bread. It’s a chicken sandwich. It comes with goat cheese on top, arugula, tomato, and then their housemade Barn buttermilk. And you can opt to get it crispy or grilled. I usually get mine crispy, and I think the creaminess and the tanginess of the goat cheese with the crispiness and the saltiness of the fried chicken, it balances perfectly. And that ciabatta roll, I think, really puts it over the top.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I think a ciabatta holds things in better.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yes, it does.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> The bread makes the sandwich.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> The bread makes the sandwich.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, and I didn’t know the buttermilk was housemade.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Because I think that came with — Oh, I’m segueing the Mac Attack.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> The Mac Attack is my very favorite. I always have to get a side of the Mac Attack with whatever main I choose. It’s like a cube of fried mac and cheese, perfectly golden and crispy. It has like a nice crust on it so it doesn’t fall apart, and it’s sprinkled with some flaky sea salt. And you get that nice cheese pull in every bite. And it comes with their housemade buttermilk.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I didn’t know it was housemade! That actually made it 10 times better, because this Mac Attack is an actual famous thing in the peninsula.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Right.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Everyone talks about it. And so I’ve been feeling left out. I’m like, “Oh, I’m trying this Mac Attack.” I finally got to go, and it’s so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did it live up to the hype?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> It so lived up. Oh, my God. Me and my cousin were like, “Whoa!” Like, it was insane.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Another thing that I tried was the Hot Farmer burger, which is like everything that I’m looking for in anything.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Which was a balance of some peppery arugula, fried onions, and that was just sweet, spicy, sour. I was hook, line and sinker.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I did get an amazing drink. It was called — I’m gonna mispronounce this. Olallieberry Lemonade. Olallieberry Lemonade, right? That was good, right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> That’s one of the best.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I was like, “What berry is a Olallieberry?” So I looked it up. It’s just a different variation of a blackberry. You guys are like, “Yeah, we knew.” But it didn’t really taste exactly like a blackberry. It almost had this tanginess, and they had full olallieberries at the bottom I could pick out at the end.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Oh, yeah, I did the same thing. I was just waiting to finish it so I could have all of them.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you have any desserts?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I did. [Chuckles] Always have to get —\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Eliza’s turning into our dessert.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> She’s the dessert.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I have a big sweet tooth, and I always have to get a dessert. So my favorite have got to be their milkshakes. They’re just a classic, simple vanilla milkshake topped with a dollop of whipped cream and, again, served in the nice mason jar. Just the perfect sweet to end the meal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> That sounds so good. They make their own pastries there too I saw.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yes. Okay, so I got an apple pie also a few times ago.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Remember, you were working for that. You know.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Right! It was topped with this crumbly topping. I mean, it was a big piece too, enough to share, and really, really delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And did you think that it was a good value?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I think so, yeah. I think it was an excellent value. And I feel like the space is so spread out and large outside that you’d never be wrestling with someone to get a seat or something.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Or if you’re having like a day trip out in Half Moon Bay, it’s a great place to stop on your way in or out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, if you would like to try The Barn, it’s located on Highway 1 in Half Moon Bay, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $30.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Jacob’s restaurant is a very rare find indeed. It’s one of only a handful in the Bay Area serving the traditional dishes of an ancient Silk Road empire. Hidden away in San Jose, it’s Kusan Uyghur Cuisine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Yolwas Hashim:\u003c/strong> Just mix it well before you eat it. Kusan Uyghur Cuisine is a modern fusion of the Uyghur foods. And Kusan was this big empire from a thousand years ago. This area covered northwest of China, was based out of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, also the north of India. So the Uyghur people were living in Central Asia, and the place I’m from is called Ürümqi.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Hashim:\u003c/strong> How was everything?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Customer:\u003c/strong> Really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Hashim:\u003c/strong> The food, the drinks, just the most easy way to let customers know you and know your culture. Our Uyghur foods have a lot of rich flavors. We have a lot of spice. We make everything fresh daily.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Hashim:\u003c/strong> All the meat is halal. I’m making the laghman. We came early to cook all the lamb, beef, soup.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Hashim:\u003c/strong> Our hand-pulled noodles, people all can tell that we make noodle fresh every day. After the noodles have cooked, it’s too hot and we have to cool it down and the noodle can taste more tender.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Hashim:\u003c/strong> Yogurt is the most important part of our history and our foods. When I was little, it was my mom making yogurt for me at home. You eat yogurt a lot because you eat a lot of lamb, so you want to balance the oily meats. We really appreciate each customer that came, so every time my customer finishes the food, we offer them free ice cream.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Hashim:\u003c/strong> I feel like everybody can feel more happy and still can remember us — that’s the most important thing. I’m so proud and so happy I have this restaurant in Bay Area because a lot of people, they never tried our food, and I believe that a lot of people love it. So that makes me more even excited.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now this place is really a hidden gem. I mean, is that the appeal for you?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I think for me, yeah. I think something I just love about this place is it’s just this beautiful enmeshment of more traditional Eastern Chinese cooking styles and spices, as well as things from Western Asia. And something I really go for is the Black Fungus Salad. They toss black fungus, which is this kind of gelatinous large fungus, with chili oil, a little bit of sesame oil, and a little bit of soy sauce. And then there are a few goji berries sprinkled in there that allow for kind of a… almost like raisin-y sweetness that really offsets and cuts through the fat and the saltiness of the soy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you have this dish?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I had the same thing. I know my reactions are giving it away. I had the same thing. It was so good. I think that was one of my favorite dishes there. I really liked that texture. Your teeth just bite into it really well. Like, it’s really satisfying.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it’s like very — like, almost like a gummy worm or something.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Very toothy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Chili oil gummy worm.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What did you start with?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Okay, so I didn’t get that, but I’m gonna have to try that next time. I’m so interested now. I got the Samsa to start, which were two little golden pockets of dough stuffed with lamb and topped with sesame seeds, black pepper, and salt. It was a really simple dish, but it really allowed the flavor of the lamb, which I know is really popular in this cuisine, to shine through, and I thought it had a perfect ratio of crust to filling. It was really phenomenal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Well, it is a meat-heavy cuisine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Was it maybe a little more challenging for a vegetarian?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> It was challenging, but…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> But doable?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> No, yeah, exactly. Doable. And I had the laghman for the entree. It was one of the only ones that was vegan, but also, I’m very much considering that part of the culture is to eat meat, you know? And so I really liked that they actually even thought of having a vegan or vegetarian option.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I also got the laghman because it also has an option to have it with lamb. They also give you the option to have it either spicy or not spicy. I got the spicy, which is this very tomatoey stew that’s kind of on a bed of handmade noodles with potatoes, cabbage, some black fungus. Again, it was very nice to have all of those different vegetables and all of the different textures built into this dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I also had their lamb chao-mian.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Both:\u003c/strong> Ooh!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> And I think the typical chao-mian I’m used to is very like soy sauce forward with a few sauteed vegetables. But this was just a very intense cumin stew almost, and it was really incredible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> The one disappointment I did have was when I ordered grilled naan, and it comes with cumin and chili powder, but when it came out, it was just more warmed up and it didn’t have any of the spices on top of it. But, you know, other than that, it was honestly overall, like, really — I do like how they incorporate those spices into the dishes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And very interesting.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> They really took you on a trip.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> The spices were phenomenal. Another one of the dishes I got was the Big Plate Chicken, which was recommended.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> That is so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> And it was just these juicy, tender pieces of chicken and potatoes and veggies. You could tell they had been simmered for a really long time. And then it was on top of these flat, wide noodles in the best sauce. It was almost like a dry heat. The spiciness hit you after, and it did have so many hints of cumin, allspice, cinnamon. And I found myself — I was dragging my noodles back and forth through the sauce in every bite just to soak it up, because it was that good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> So did you guys get the yogurt drinks that they have?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yes!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> The yogurt is amazing. That tastes homemade as well. I got the Honey Yuzu Peel yogurt drink — so refreshing, especially with the heaviness of the meal itself.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I had the Honey Lemon one.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yes!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I just highly recommend if you’re going with a few folks, make sure you all get a different yogurt drink to try.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, ’cause you all try each others. I tried my sister’s, the passionfruit one.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> And they have a milk tea that has butter in it. And if you’re someone who’s really fiending for some rich, rich flavors, there’s a little bit of butter, a little bit of salt. And it’s just, at least for me, an unconventional take on a milk tea, and it was delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And any room for desserts?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I had the Bakali. It was this very dense cake, and it was amazing. It had some spices in it, maybe a little bit of cardamom drizzled with chocolate and caramel on top. It was very good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Sounds delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And my dessert queen over here?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Oh, yes. I got the homemade yogurt dessert topped with sliced almonds and honey. Really, really good because I had never had Uyghur cuisine, so I was so excited to try something new, and it really knocked my socks off. I would go back.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Well, if you would like to try Kusan Uyghur Cuisine, it’s located on 4th Street in San Jose. The average tab per person without drinks is around $30.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And now reporter Cecilia Phillips heads to Sonoma County for more Bay Area bites you’ve just got to try.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> We’re here in Sonoma County for the Fork’n Good Food Festival. Where did the name come from?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mercedes Hernandez:\u003c/strong> Well, I probably can’t really say it. Well, you know, food is pretty effing good, so, like, I thought, like, what better name than the Fork’n Good Food Festival, right? Hi! How are you? Can’t really forget it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> What kind of energy and vibe is gonna be here today?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mercedes Hernandez:\u003c/strong> We have so many amazing local restaurants and food trucks here in Sonoma County, and I wanted to create an event that would bring together the food vendors and the community for a day of just food, fun, live music, and just have a good time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> The name of your business tells part of the story of what you do. So tell me about the name.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Joseph Edwards:\u003c/strong> Legacy BBQ originated from my father. My father was a pitmaster here in Sonoma County.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> Thanks, Joe!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Joseph Edwards:\u003c/strong> And so I took up the reins and hopefully will pass it on to my family, so continuing my father’s legacy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Joseph Edwards:\u003c/strong> I wood-fire tri tip. I have my own rub — salt, pepper, and a little bit of garlic. Get it nice and hot, cut it real thin, and serve it right off the grill. That’s the secret.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Is a tri tip sandwich something that you should be eating with a fork?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Joseph Edwards:\u003c/strong> If you can get this down without a fork, I will give you a sandwich for free.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> OMG! Ahh! We did it! No forks, baby.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Joseph Edwards:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Oh.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Joseph Edwards:\u003c/strong> So good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> That is fork’n good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jeannette Ambriz-Diaz:\u003c/strong> Chamoy?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Woman:\u003c/strong> Yes, please.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jeannette Ambriz-Diaz:\u003c/strong> Chamoy is a sweet, tangy, a little spice kind of paste that you put around your drinks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Woman:\u003c/strong> I love it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> But you don’t just do drinks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jeannette Ambriz-Diaz:\u003c/strong> No. One of my favorite things is a cucumber roll.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> So I love that you’ve done cucumber so I can feel a little bit less guilty about the fact that I’m eating a lot of candy right now.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jeannette Ambriz-Diaz:\u003c/strong> It’s a well-balanced meal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> A good drip.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jeannette Ambriz-Diaz:\u003c/strong> Right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Katia Reyes:\u003c/strong> Now we’re just waiting till it’s fully cooked, and then we start flipping. My name is Katia, and I am owner of Los Mini Pancakes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Woman:\u003c/strong> Enjoy!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Woman #2:\u003c/strong> Yay!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Katia Reyes:\u003c/strong> In Mexico, they have the mini pancakes. But I’m actually one of the first ones in Sonoma County that started mini pancakes. My menu is just whatever you want. Unlimited syrup, unlimited toppings. That’s what people like.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Okay, so how do you eat these? With your hands?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Katia Reyes:\u003c/strong> No, we got forks. Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> \u003cem>[Chuckles]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Katia Reyes:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> They’re so fluffy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> I see a lot of bright colors here. What do you specialize in?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Humberto Segura:\u003c/strong> So we made a Hot Cheeto menu. We have Hot Cheeto burgers, Hot Cheeto tamales, crunchwraps, burritos, and corn.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Woman:\u003c/strong> Good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> What have you prepared for me?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Humberto Segura:\u003c/strong> Got the Hot Cheeto mac and cheese burger. It goes with lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo, patty, cheese, nacho cheese, mac and cheese. We cover the bun with Hot Cheeto dust.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Oh, and there’s Hot Cheetos on the inside, too? [Chuckles] Oh, no! Oh, my God. That was so good. Do you ever say anything, like, right when you eat something, you’re like…?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Humberto Segura:\u003c/strong> It smacks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Oh! You heard it here first. This smacks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Humberto Segura:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it smacks.\u003cem> [Laughs]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I want to thank my great guests on this week’s show, Avani Tumuluri, who cherishes the Chili Paneer Roll at ROOH in Palo Alto; Eliza Bulanti, who always makes room for the Mac Attack at The Barn in Half Moon Bay; and Jacob Gorneau, who introduced us to the fragrant flavors of Kusan Uyghur Cuisine in San Jose.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Join us next time when three more guests will recommend their favorite spots right here on “Check, Please! Bay Area.” I’m Leslie Sbrocco, and I’ll see you then. Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Whoo-hoo!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Love it, love it, love it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> When you eat something delicious, what do you say when that first little taste hits your lips?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Joseph Edwards:\u003c/strong> “Ain’t nothing wrong with that.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Katia Reyes:\u003c/strong> I say, “This is really bomb.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> Keeping it PG, “It’s flipping good.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Is there certain things that you just have to eat or don’t have to eat with a fork?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jeannette Ambriz-Diaz:\u003c/strong> I feel like you’re out of a food festival. There’s no judgment. You should be able to eat with your hands. Get messy. We’re here to try everything.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> But, hey, there’s nothing wrong with this.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Joseph Edwards:\u003c/strong> Ain’t nothing wrong with that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Yeah. \u003cem>[Laughs]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\n",
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"title": "Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: ROOH, The Barn, Kusan Uyghur Cuisine | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/em>season 19, episode 12, airs Thursday, November 28, at 7:30 pm, on KQED 9. See other \u003ca href=\"http://www.kqed.org/tv/programs/index.jsp?pgmid=14084\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">television airtimes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">On this episode of \u003c/span>\u003ci>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Check, Please! Bay Area, \u003c/span>\u003c/i>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">our guests start their culinary adventure in Palo Alto at \u003cstrong>ROOH\u003c/strong>, a modern Indian restaurant where traditional flavors meet innovative techniques in dishes like paneer chili rolls, jackfruit toast and chicken tikka kulcha. Next, they head to \u003cstrong>The Barn\u003c/strong> in Half Moon Bay, a rustic, farm-to-table eatery offering seasonal American comfort food, from juicy burgers with barn-pickled jalapeños to fried mac and cheese, all enjoyed in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. The journey continues in San Jose at \u003cstrong>Kusan Uyghur Cuisine\u003c/strong>, where diners experience the rich, bold flavors of Central Asian dishes like hand-pulled noodles and big plate chicken. Finally, reporter Cecilia Phillips visits the \u003cstrong>Fork’n Good Food Festival\u003c/strong> in Rohnert Park, where she samples a diverse array of gourmet eats, from local Sonoma bites to globally inspired street food.\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_23282\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-23282\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/10/CPBA_1912_Guests-800x533.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/10/CPBA_1912_Guests-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/10/CPBA_1912_Guests-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/10/CPBA_1912_Guests-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/10/CPBA_1912_Guests-768x512.png 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/10/CPBA_1912_Guests-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/10/CPBA_1912_Guests.png 1620w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco joins guests Avani Tumuluri, Jacob Gorneau and Eliza Bulanti from KQED in San Francisco.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Get Restaurant Information:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://roohrestaurants.com/\">\u003cstrong>ROOH\u003c/strong> (Palo Alto)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.thebarnhmb.com/\">\u003cstrong>The Barn\u003c/strong> (Half Moon Bay)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://kusanuyghur.com/\">\u003cstrong>Kusan Uyghur Cuisine\u003c/strong> (San Jose)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.thesocomarket.com/forkn-good-food-festival\">\u003cstrong>Fork’n Good Food Festival\u003c/strong> (Rohnert Park)\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_20123\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-20123\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2019/04/Leslie-Headshot-Smokey-copy-800x540.jpg\" alt=\"Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine\" width=\"800\" height=\"540\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine \u003ccite>(Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the \u003ca href=\"http://ww2.kqed.org/checkplease/host-biography/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">host\u003c/a> of \u003cem>Check, Please! Bay Area\u003c/em>. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-23332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-800x906.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"800\" height=\"906\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-800x906.jpeg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-1020x1155.jpeg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-160x181.jpeg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-768x869.jpeg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-1357x1536.jpeg 1357w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-1809x2048.jpeg 1809w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2024/11/1912_Wines-1920x2174.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\">\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.scaiawine.com/en/product/scaia-garganega-e-chardonnay\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003cstrong>Scaia 2022 Garganega / Chardonnay\u003c/strong>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003cem>Trevenezie IGT, Italy $15\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Looking for a deliciously light and bright white that still shows character? This affordable wine is one to buy in batches. Enjoy it as an aperitif or serve it alongside fish in lemon sauce, fried calamari, and fresh salads. The grape variety Chardonnay is familiar, but the native Italian white grape Garganega is known to Italian wine lovers for making sassy Soave and other Veneto whites. Their perfect pairing is what makes the wine so special.\u003c/span>\u003cem>\u003cbr>\n\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://benoviawinery.com/\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003cstrong>Benovia 2019 “Blanc de Blancs” Sparkling Wine\u003c/strong>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003cbr>\n\u003c/span>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003cem>Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California $60\u003c/em>\u003cbr>\nAs one of California’s most highly regarded Pinot Noir and Chardonnay producers, Benovia is a Sonoma star. Its richly styled sparkling white has expressive aromas of lemon cream pie, peach blossom, and toasted nuts. It’s a wine to start the meal and continue enjoying throughout, whether you’re serving a hearty brunch casserole or a dinner of veal scallopini or pork loin. Elegance in your glass — all with the pop of a cork.\u003cbr>\n\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.estournel.com/en/\">\u003cspan style=\"color: #339966\">\u003cstrong>G d’Estournel 2020\u003c/strong>\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cbr>\n\u003cem>Médoc, Bordeaux, France $39\u003c/em>\u003cbr>\nOne of France’s heralded Bordeaux reds is Cos d’Estournel. Opulent and ageworthy, it’s a coveted collector wine. An alluring alternative that shares the same heritage without the same price tag is G d’Estournel. The appealing front label tells a story all its own. According to their website, “G d’Estournel evokes the wonderment of an explorer returned home from the Far East, his soul replete with luminous memories of majestic Indian elephants, shimmering Burmese gold, the finest of Nepalese silks, the warm glow of Vietnamese lanterns.” Each vintage is a slightly different blend of red Bordeaux grapes, but the stylish 2020 is Merlot dominant with a splash of Cabernet Sauvignon. Plush and subtly smooth, it is a red to relish.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Episode Transcript\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Contemporary Indian plates in Palo Alto.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Did it live up to the hype?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> It so lived up.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Burgers al fresco in Half Moon Bay\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> The bread makes the sandwich.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> The bread makes the sandwich.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And Central Asian cuisine in San Jose.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> And it really knocked my socks off.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Just ahead on “Check, Please! Bay Area.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> You heard it here first. This smacks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Humberto Segura:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it smacks. \u003cem>[laughs]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Hi, I’m Leslie Sbrocco. Welcome to “Check, Please! Bay Area,” the show where Bay Area residents review and talk about their favorite restaurants. Now, we have three guests, and each one recommends one of their favorite spots, and the other two go check them out to see what they think. Joining me at the “Check, Please!” table today are three very studious guests—dental student Avani Tumuluri, psychology and brain science student Eliza Bulanti, and scorpion researcher grad student Jacob Gorneau.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Thank you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Thanks for having me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Avani’s restaurant offers a tempting fusion of Indian and California cuisine. Add in Ayurveda-inspired cocktails, vibrant decor, and it’s the perfect place for a family dinner or a first date. Located in downtown Palo Alto, it’s ROOH.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Apurva Panchal:\u003c/strong> Rooh means “soul” in Persian, and in India also.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Abi Capristo:\u003c/strong> I think ROOH is passion. It’s passion for food, it’s passion for hospitality, it’s passion for putting a twist on traditional food that goes back hundreds of years.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Apurva Panchal:\u003c/strong> Alright? Perfect. I grew up in Mumbai. I’m Gujarati. Our food culture was something which had sweet, sour, and spicy—all umami flavors together. At ROOH, we have covered all the regions of India and many lost recipes which people have forgotten to cook.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Abi Capristo:\u003c/strong> We always like to think of nostalgic, but we wrapped it in this beautiful presentation with these vibrant colors and just a tiny bit of a modern twist to all these beautiful traditional dishes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> Oh! Yo!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Apurva Panchal:\u003c/strong> Also the street food which people used to enjoy during their childhood. That first taste takes them to their childhood memories of family or the place where I was born.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Abi Capristo:\u003c/strong> We all know that Indian cuisine is a lot of vegetarian items, but I think we’ve turned it into such a fun and exciting way of eating vegetarian food that never gets old. It’s always amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Apurva Panchal:\u003c/strong> In Sanskrit, we always say Atithi Devo Bhava. That means the guests should be treated like God. That’s how we follow it as part of our hospitality culture.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Abi Capristo:\u003c/strong> It’s so great when people walk in, they’re like, “This is my first time here and I have to be back.” You know, it’s exciting to see people be excited.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, Avani. I mean, this place is really a creative take, right, on Indian street food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah. I think that I love that it’s a progressive Indian cuisine, but it kind of has a mix of the inspiration of California culture with the Indian culture. I love the decor. I love the atmosphere. You walk in, and it’s just like this shroud of reds and these antique decorations and mirrors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It puts you in the mood.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it really puts you in the mood. It really does. I’m ready to eat. I’m ready to have fun.\u003cbr>\n\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> You’re ready.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> And I absolutely always go for the Paneer Chili Roll. It looks like a pinwheel, which is really cool because I feel like it marries in the American culture.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Yeah, like a lunch snack.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it’s like a classic Lunchable.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I think it’s a snackable or something.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah! Snackable.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I hear Eliza going, “Yeah, yeah, yeah.” Did you have this as well?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I did, and it was phenomenal. I thought that the flavors and the textures, I loved how they wrapped them all up, because the paneer wasn’t super overwhelming, and the crispiness of the kataifi, too, with kind of the smoothness of the paneer was perfect. And then what really put it over the top for me was the chili garlic chutney that it came with.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> The flavor of that was phenomenal and just paired with the textures, it was a work of art, like every other dish I had here too.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Yeah, absolutely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I had the Assorted Papad, which came with three different chutneys and a bunch of different crispy crackers that were variously seasoned. My favorite one was the chili peanut one. I love peanut flavor, but in particular this peanut was so rich and decadent it almost had like a chocolatey richness to it, which was really delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I loved this menu and that it really emphasized small plates. So my family and I got a lot of them to share, which as an adventurous eater, was so fun for me to get to try so many different things. I think my favorite had to be the Chicken Tikka Kulcha. It was like this warm, round flatbread stuffed with this really flavorful shredded chicken. And then it had this beautiful dollop of za’atar butter and pickled onions on top, and it came out warm so that the butter kind of melted in and the flavors just melded perfectly. It was glorious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> So did you get the most of it and then your parents just a little bit?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Exactly. Everyone took a little bite, and I was like, “This one is for me.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> And then I also—probably the most beautiful dish I got was the Potato Tikki Chaat.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> It was like a cube of really thinly sliced potatoes, and it sat atop this yogurt sauce that was almost like a whipped cream consistency, drizzled with a tamarind sauce and some raspberry seeds. The flavors and the textures were incredible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I really like the Jackfruit Toast.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Oh!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I love jackfruit. I feel like if you’re able to season it right, it can be very meaty, and the jackfruit itself is very nicely spiced. And then with that buttery bread on the bottom, oh my gosh.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> It’s a nice combination.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I had a Duck Seekh Kebab. I always like duck. I know sometimes people feel like it’s a little on the fatty side of things, but it was just this incredible flavor bomb, the meat itself, and there was some mixed berry chutney on top as well. And so it was really this beautiful balance between tang and spice.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> That sounds amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Definitely my favorite dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did they order right? So far?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> They ordered right.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Okay, good. Okay, good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> My mouth is watering.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> If you guys ever go again, you should definitely order the Malai Broccoli.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Ooh!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Now, I know it sounds like, “Why would I pay for a broccoli?” But it’s this giant piece, and it’s placed on this creamy daal, which is like lentil-based sauce, and it’s very nicely spiced.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Get the broccoli.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I have to try that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I also had a delicious mocktail that went perfectly with the dishes I got. It was the Pink Guava mocktail, and it had these hints of masala spices in it, which I think cut the sweetness of the guava perfectly and really paired nicely with this meal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I’m so excited, ’cause I had the same one.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> No way! Okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> No way! It was so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I tried the Mulberry Sour, which was really refreshing and bright to kind of complement some of those warmer spices. And the thing that really blew my socks off was the Patna Fizz, which is a lychee-flavored cocktail that also has, I believe, some mushroom essence in it. Beautifully purple. Like, it was really amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Wow!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And dessert?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Oh, of course. Of course I had dessert. I always go for the kulfi. If you guys don’t know what it is, it’s sort of an Indian ice cream, and the flavors that they have are like pistachio or saffron, flavors that you wouldn’t really get at your normal supermarket, and it’s just always decorated so beautifully.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> My takeaway was this is amazing. This is a great special-occasion venue. And I wouldn’t necessarily go there on a first date, but I would definitely take someone I really love there and, you know, show my love through these dishes. Like, it’s really a love letter to food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. If you would like to try ROOH, it’s located on University Avenue in Palo Alto, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $60.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Eliza is a big-time burger lover, and she says the absolute best can be found at her casual coastal eatery. Located in Half Moon Bay, it’s The Barn.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Matt Haugen:\u003c/strong> The Barn is casual.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man #2:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Woman:\u003c/strong> Can I steal one of your fries for the dog?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Matt Haugen:\u003c/strong> It’s communal, above all.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrick Hanna:\u003c/strong> It’s put itself on the map as a little oasis and really just part of our ethos, which is…happy people make good food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Woman:\u003c/strong> It’s so delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrick Hanna:\u003c/strong> Matter of fact, I find that the best food is generally the simplest. We make everything that we possibly can, and our ingredients come from local purveyors as much as possible. We make the best burger on the coast. I know that could be an arguable statement, but I’m happy to take on anyone else that wants to challenge it. And it’s not because of some secret ingredient. We use our homemade American cheese, sauces, high-quality bun.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> I like the beef.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrick Hanna:\u003c/strong> For sure, one of the highlights for me and a lot of customers is the veggie burger. We cook down a lot of ingredients, primarily mushrooms and farro for building texture. And I’m not a vegetarian, so I honestly have that with a little bacon on top, and it’s fantastic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Matt Haugen:\u003c/strong> Can we talk about the milkshakes? Because there’s something about the milkshakes which you don’t find anywhere.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrick Hanna:\u003c/strong> It’s Marianne’s Ice Cream from Santa Cruz, and a splash or two of milk just to be able to blend it together. And then we make our own ingredients to create the flavor, so if it’s chocolate, we’ll make separate chocolate ganache that then gets put into the ice cream.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Matt Haugen:\u003c/strong> Of course, homemade whipped cream.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrick Hanna:\u003c/strong> Well, yeah. You need to have that a little bit more fun on top.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Matt Haugen:\u003c/strong> Why not? I mean, for the person who has bacon on a veggie burger…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrick Hanna:\u003c/strong> True.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Matt Haugen:\u003c/strong> …whipped cream on a milkshake is par for the course.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Patrick Hanna:\u003c/strong> So Half Moon Bay, we are on the coast. Restaurant is about a five-minute walk from the sand. Dutch word, it’s called Gezellig. It means “warm,” “comfortable,” “family,” and that’s what this place means to me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Eliza, this spot feels like, you know, you’ve gone to the beach…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> …you’ve hung out those gorgeous beaches in Half Moon Bay, and now you need something to eat, right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yes. 100%. That’s one of my favorite parts about this restaurant is you can really do it all here, whether that’s after a hike by the beach or just hanging out for the day. You can kind of get a sense of that local vibe that represents the quaint town of Half Moon Bay, I think, really well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright. What is your favorite?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Oh, yes. Okay. What’s kept me coming back for years? It’s The Pretender. So although I am a beef hamburger-loving person, The Pretender, it is my must-have here. It’s kind of a hearty patty. It’s filled with farro, mushrooms, flax, garlic, and Parmesan, and I know that so well because I’ve even tried to recreate it at home. It’s that good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> \u003cem>[Laughs]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> And then topped with some white cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, lemon-dressed arugula, fresh tomato on a toasted brioche bun. And a tip given to me years ago by a lovely employee was to add pickled beets as well.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And you’re a vegetarian, right? So did you find your way to that dish?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yup. I had The Pretender.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yeah? Okay. What did you think?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I felt like I was pretending to eat a burger. Oh, it was so good. I actually really liked it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What did you have when you went there?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I had a pulled pork sandwich, which was amazing. It was super sweet, super smoky. I have a huge sweet tooth, but I am glad that I ordered the spicy coleslaw on that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I was gonna ask which one you got. You can do it sweet or spicy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I got spicy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Yeah, and the spicy really balanced it out a lot. And, man, the buns themselves were also delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I had the Vegan BBQ one, which I also was a little hesitant about because sometimes, you know, with the vegan versions, you never know. But this one was insane. It was so good ’cause it was with jackfruit.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Jackfruit is so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> It really has like that meaty tenderness.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, and the ciabatta bread? That bread, oh, it was amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I have to mention the What the Cluck sandwich too, because that also comes on the ciabatta bread. It’s a chicken sandwich. It comes with goat cheese on top, arugula, tomato, and then their housemade Barn buttermilk. And you can opt to get it crispy or grilled. I usually get mine crispy, and I think the creaminess and the tanginess of the goat cheese with the crispiness and the saltiness of the fried chicken, it balances perfectly. And that ciabatta roll, I think, really puts it over the top.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I think a ciabatta holds things in better.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yes, it does.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> The bread makes the sandwich.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> The bread makes the sandwich.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, and I didn’t know the buttermilk was housemade.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Because I think that came with — Oh, I’m segueing the Mac Attack.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> The Mac Attack is my very favorite. I always have to get a side of the Mac Attack with whatever main I choose. It’s like a cube of fried mac and cheese, perfectly golden and crispy. It has like a nice crust on it so it doesn’t fall apart, and it’s sprinkled with some flaky sea salt. And you get that nice cheese pull in every bite. And it comes with their housemade buttermilk.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I didn’t know it was housemade! That actually made it 10 times better, because this Mac Attack is an actual famous thing in the peninsula.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Right.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Everyone talks about it. And so I’ve been feeling left out. I’m like, “Oh, I’m trying this Mac Attack.” I finally got to go, and it’s so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did it live up to the hype?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> It so lived up. Oh, my God. Me and my cousin were like, “Whoa!” Like, it was insane.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Another thing that I tried was the Hot Farmer burger, which is like everything that I’m looking for in anything.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Which was a balance of some peppery arugula, fried onions, and that was just sweet, spicy, sour. I was hook, line and sinker.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I did get an amazing drink. It was called — I’m gonna mispronounce this. Olallieberry Lemonade. Olallieberry Lemonade, right? That was good, right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> That’s one of the best.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I was like, “What berry is a Olallieberry?” So I looked it up. It’s just a different variation of a blackberry. You guys are like, “Yeah, we knew.” But it didn’t really taste exactly like a blackberry. It almost had this tanginess, and they had full olallieberries at the bottom I could pick out at the end.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Oh, yeah, I did the same thing. I was just waiting to finish it so I could have all of them.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you have any desserts?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I did. [Chuckles] Always have to get —\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Eliza’s turning into our dessert.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> She’s the dessert.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> I have a big sweet tooth, and I always have to get a dessert. So my favorite have got to be their milkshakes. They’re just a classic, simple vanilla milkshake topped with a dollop of whipped cream and, again, served in the nice mason jar. Just the perfect sweet to end the meal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> That sounds so good. They make their own pastries there too I saw.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yes. Okay, so I got an apple pie also a few times ago.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Remember, you were working for that. You know.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Right! It was topped with this crumbly topping. I mean, it was a big piece too, enough to share, and really, really delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And did you think that it was a good value?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I think so, yeah. I think it was an excellent value. And I feel like the space is so spread out and large outside that you’d never be wrestling with someone to get a seat or something.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Or if you’re having like a day trip out in Half Moon Bay, it’s a great place to stop on your way in or out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Alright, if you would like to try The Barn, it’s located on Highway 1 in Half Moon Bay, and the average tab per person without drinks is around $30.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Jacob’s restaurant is a very rare find indeed. It’s one of only a handful in the Bay Area serving the traditional dishes of an ancient Silk Road empire. Hidden away in San Jose, it’s Kusan Uyghur Cuisine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Yolwas Hashim:\u003c/strong> Just mix it well before you eat it. Kusan Uyghur Cuisine is a modern fusion of the Uyghur foods. And Kusan was this big empire from a thousand years ago. This area covered northwest of China, was based out of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, also the north of India. So the Uyghur people were living in Central Asia, and the place I’m from is called Ürümqi.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Hashim:\u003c/strong> How was everything?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Customer:\u003c/strong> Really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Hashim:\u003c/strong> The food, the drinks, just the most easy way to let customers know you and know your culture. Our Uyghur foods have a lot of rich flavors. We have a lot of spice. We make everything fresh daily.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Hashim:\u003c/strong> All the meat is halal. I’m making the laghman. We came early to cook all the lamb, beef, soup.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Hashim:\u003c/strong> Our hand-pulled noodles, people all can tell that we make noodle fresh every day. After the noodles have cooked, it’s too hot and we have to cool it down and the noodle can taste more tender.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Hashim:\u003c/strong> Yogurt is the most important part of our history and our foods. When I was little, it was my mom making yogurt for me at home. You eat yogurt a lot because you eat a lot of lamb, so you want to balance the oily meats. We really appreciate each customer that came, so every time my customer finishes the food, we offer them free ice cream.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Hashim:\u003c/strong> I feel like everybody can feel more happy and still can remember us — that’s the most important thing. I’m so proud and so happy I have this restaurant in Bay Area because a lot of people, they never tried our food, and I believe that a lot of people love it. So that makes me more even excited.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Now this place is really a hidden gem. I mean, is that the appeal for you?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I think for me, yeah. I think something I just love about this place is it’s just this beautiful enmeshment of more traditional Eastern Chinese cooking styles and spices, as well as things from Western Asia. And something I really go for is the Black Fungus Salad. They toss black fungus, which is this kind of gelatinous large fungus, with chili oil, a little bit of sesame oil, and a little bit of soy sauce. And then there are a few goji berries sprinkled in there that allow for kind of a… almost like raisin-y sweetness that really offsets and cuts through the fat and the saltiness of the soy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Did you have this dish?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I had the same thing. I know my reactions are giving it away. I had the same thing. It was so good. I think that was one of my favorite dishes there. I really liked that texture. Your teeth just bite into it really well. Like, it’s really satisfying.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it’s like very — like, almost like a gummy worm or something.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Very toothy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Chili oil gummy worm.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> What did you start with?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Okay, so I didn’t get that, but I’m gonna have to try that next time. I’m so interested now. I got the Samsa to start, which were two little golden pockets of dough stuffed with lamb and topped with sesame seeds, black pepper, and salt. It was a really simple dish, but it really allowed the flavor of the lamb, which I know is really popular in this cuisine, to shine through, and I thought it had a perfect ratio of crust to filling. It was really phenomenal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Well, it is a meat-heavy cuisine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Was it maybe a little more challenging for a vegetarian?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> It was challenging, but…\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> But doable?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> No, yeah, exactly. Doable. And I had the laghman for the entree. It was one of the only ones that was vegan, but also, I’m very much considering that part of the culture is to eat meat, you know? And so I really liked that they actually even thought of having a vegan or vegetarian option.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I also got the laghman because it also has an option to have it with lamb. They also give you the option to have it either spicy or not spicy. I got the spicy, which is this very tomatoey stew that’s kind of on a bed of handmade noodles with potatoes, cabbage, some black fungus. Again, it was very nice to have all of those different vegetables and all of the different textures built into this dish.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I also had their lamb chao-mian.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Both:\u003c/strong> Ooh!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> And I think the typical chao-mian I’m used to is very like soy sauce forward with a few sauteed vegetables. But this was just a very intense cumin stew almost, and it was really incredible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> The one disappointment I did have was when I ordered grilled naan, and it comes with cumin and chili powder, but when it came out, it was just more warmed up and it didn’t have any of the spices on top of it. But, you know, other than that, it was honestly overall, like, really — I do like how they incorporate those spices into the dishes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And very interesting.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> They really took you on a trip.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> The spices were phenomenal. Another one of the dishes I got was the Big Plate Chicken, which was recommended.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> That is so good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> And it was just these juicy, tender pieces of chicken and potatoes and veggies. You could tell they had been simmered for a really long time. And then it was on top of these flat, wide noodles in the best sauce. It was almost like a dry heat. The spiciness hit you after, and it did have so many hints of cumin, allspice, cinnamon. And I found myself — I was dragging my noodles back and forth through the sauce in every bite just to soak it up, because it was that good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> So did you guys get the yogurt drinks that they have?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yes!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> The yogurt is amazing. That tastes homemade as well. I got the Honey Yuzu Peel yogurt drink — so refreshing, especially with the heaviness of the meal itself.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> Yeah, I had the Honey Lemon one.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yes!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> I just highly recommend if you’re going with a few folks, make sure you all get a different yogurt drink to try.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Yeah, ’cause you all try each others. I tried my sister’s, the passionfruit one.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jacob Gorneau:\u003c/strong> And they have a milk tea that has butter in it. And if you’re someone who’s really fiending for some rich, rich flavors, there’s a little bit of butter, a little bit of salt. And it’s just, at least for me, an unconventional take on a milk tea, and it was delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And any room for desserts?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> I had the Bakali. It was this very dense cake, and it was amazing. It had some spices in it, maybe a little bit of cardamom drizzled with chocolate and caramel on top. It was very good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Sounds delicious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And my dessert queen over here?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Oh, yes. I got the homemade yogurt dessert topped with sliced almonds and honey. Really, really good because I had never had Uyghur cuisine, so I was so excited to try something new, and it really knocked my socks off. I would go back.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Well, if you would like to try Kusan Uyghur Cuisine, it’s located on 4th Street in San Jose. The average tab per person without drinks is around $30.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> And now reporter Cecilia Phillips heads to Sonoma County for more Bay Area bites you’ve just got to try.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> We’re here in Sonoma County for the Fork’n Good Food Festival. Where did the name come from?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mercedes Hernandez:\u003c/strong> Well, I probably can’t really say it. Well, you know, food is pretty effing good, so, like, I thought, like, what better name than the Fork’n Good Food Festival, right? Hi! How are you? Can’t really forget it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> What kind of energy and vibe is gonna be here today?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mercedes Hernandez:\u003c/strong> We have so many amazing local restaurants and food trucks here in Sonoma County, and I wanted to create an event that would bring together the food vendors and the community for a day of just food, fun, live music, and just have a good time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>[music playing]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> The name of your business tells part of the story of what you do. So tell me about the name.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Joseph Edwards:\u003c/strong> Legacy BBQ originated from my father. My father was a pitmaster here in Sonoma County.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> Thanks, Joe!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Joseph Edwards:\u003c/strong> And so I took up the reins and hopefully will pass it on to my family, so continuing my father’s legacy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Amazing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Joseph Edwards:\u003c/strong> I wood-fire tri tip. I have my own rub — salt, pepper, and a little bit of garlic. Get it nice and hot, cut it real thin, and serve it right off the grill. That’s the secret.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Is a tri tip sandwich something that you should be eating with a fork?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Joseph Edwards:\u003c/strong> If you can get this down without a fork, I will give you a sandwich for free.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> OMG! Ahh! We did it! No forks, baby.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Joseph Edwards:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Oh.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Joseph Edwards:\u003c/strong> So good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> That is fork’n good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jeannette Ambriz-Diaz:\u003c/strong> Chamoy?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Woman:\u003c/strong> Yes, please.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jeannette Ambriz-Diaz:\u003c/strong> Chamoy is a sweet, tangy, a little spice kind of paste that you put around your drinks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Woman:\u003c/strong> I love it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> But you don’t just do drinks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jeannette Ambriz-Diaz:\u003c/strong> No. One of my favorite things is a cucumber roll.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> So I love that you’ve done cucumber so I can feel a little bit less guilty about the fact that I’m eating a lot of candy right now.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jeannette Ambriz-Diaz:\u003c/strong> It’s a well-balanced meal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> A good drip.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jeannette Ambriz-Diaz:\u003c/strong> Right?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Katia Reyes:\u003c/strong> Now we’re just waiting till it’s fully cooked, and then we start flipping. My name is Katia, and I am owner of Los Mini Pancakes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Woman:\u003c/strong> Enjoy!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Woman #2:\u003c/strong> Yay!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Katia Reyes:\u003c/strong> In Mexico, they have the mini pancakes. But I’m actually one of the first ones in Sonoma County that started mini pancakes. My menu is just whatever you want. Unlimited syrup, unlimited toppings. That’s what people like.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Okay, so how do you eat these? With your hands?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Katia Reyes:\u003c/strong> No, we got forks. Yeah.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> \u003cem>[Chuckles]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Katia Reyes:\u003c/strong> Cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> They’re so fluffy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> I see a lot of bright colors here. What do you specialize in?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Humberto Segura:\u003c/strong> So we made a Hot Cheeto menu. We have Hot Cheeto burgers, Hot Cheeto tamales, crunchwraps, burritos, and corn.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Woman:\u003c/strong> Good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> What have you prepared for me?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Humberto Segura:\u003c/strong> Got the Hot Cheeto mac and cheese burger. It goes with lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo, patty, cheese, nacho cheese, mac and cheese. We cover the bun with Hot Cheeto dust.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Oh, and there’s Hot Cheetos on the inside, too? [Chuckles] Oh, no! Oh, my God. That was so good. Do you ever say anything, like, right when you eat something, you’re like…?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Humberto Segura:\u003c/strong> It smacks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Oh! You heard it here first. This smacks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Humberto Segura:\u003c/strong> Yeah, it smacks.\u003cem> [Laughs]\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> I want to thank my great guests on this week’s show, Avani Tumuluri, who cherishes the Chili Paneer Roll at ROOH in Palo Alto; Eliza Bulanti, who always makes room for the Mac Attack at The Barn in Half Moon Bay; and Jacob Gorneau, who introduced us to the fragrant flavors of Kusan Uyghur Cuisine in San Jose.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Join us next time when three more guests will recommend their favorite spots right here on “Check, Please! Bay Area.” I’m Leslie Sbrocco, and I’ll see you then. Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Avani Tumuluri:\u003c/strong> Cheers!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Eliza Bulanti:\u003c/strong> Whoo-hoo!\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Leslie Sbrocco:\u003c/strong> Love it, love it, love it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> When you eat something delicious, what do you say when that first little taste hits your lips?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Joseph Edwards:\u003c/strong> “Ain’t nothing wrong with that.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Katia Reyes:\u003c/strong> I say, “This is really bomb.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Man:\u003c/strong> Keeping it PG, “It’s flipping good.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Cecilia Phillips:\u003c/strong> Is there certain things that you just have to eat or don’t have to eat with a fork?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jeannette Ambriz-Diaz:\u003c/strong> I feel like you’re out of a food festival. There’s no judgment. You should be able to eat with your hands. Get messy. 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"info": "What kind of no sabo word is Hyphenación? For us, it’s about living within a hyphenation. Like being a third-gen Mexican-American from the Texas border now living that Bay Area Chicano life. Like Xorje! Each week we bring together a couple of hyphenated Latinos to talk all about personal life choices: family, careers, relationships, belonging … everything is on the table. ",
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"info": "The Political Mind of Jerry Brown brings listeners the wisdom of the former Governor, Mayor, and presidential candidate. Scott Shafer interviewed Brown for more than 40 hours, covering the former governor's life and half-century in the political game – and Brown has some lessons he'd like to share. ",
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"marketplace": {
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"info": "Our flagship program, helmed by Kai Ryssdal, examines what the day in money delivered, through stories, conversations, newsworthy numbers and more. Updated Monday through Friday at about 3:30 p.m. PT.",
"airtime": "MON-FRI 4pm-4:30pm, MON-WED 6:30pm-7pm",
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"masters-of-scale": {
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},
"mindshift": {
"id": "mindshift",
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"info": "The MindShift podcast explores the innovations in education that are shaping how kids learn. Hosts Ki Sung and Katrina Schwartz introduce listeners to educators, researchers, parents and students who are developing effective ways to improve how kids learn. We cover topics like how fed-up administrators are developing surprising tactics to deal with classroom disruptions; how listening to podcasts are helping kids develop reading skills; the consequences of overparenting; and why interdisciplinary learning can engage students on all ends of the traditional achievement spectrum. This podcast is part of the MindShift education site, a division of KQED News. KQED is an NPR/PBS member station based in San Francisco. You can also visit the MindShift website for episodes and supplemental blog posts or tweet us \u003ca href=\"https://twitter.com/MindShiftKQED\">@MindShiftKQED\u003c/a> or visit us at \u003ca href=\"/mindshift\">MindShift.KQED.org\u003c/a>",
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"order": 12
},
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"google": "https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vS1FJTkM1NzY0NjAwNDI5",
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"morning-edition": {
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"info": "\u003cem>Morning Edition\u003c/em> takes listeners around the country and the world with multi-faceted stories and commentaries every weekday. Hosts Steve Inskeep, David Greene and Rachel Martin bring you the latest breaking news and features to prepare you for the day.",
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"onourwatch": {
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"title": "On Our Watch",
"tagline": "Deeply-reported investigative journalism",
"info": "For decades, the process for how police police themselves has been inconsistent – if not opaque. In some states, like California, these proceedings were completely hidden. After a new police transparency law unsealed scores of internal affairs files, our reporters set out to examine these cases and the shadow world of police discipline. On Our Watch brings listeners into the rooms where officers are questioned and witnesses are interrogated to find out who this system is really protecting. Is it the officers, or the public they've sworn to serve?",
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"order": 11
},
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"on-the-media": {
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"title": "On The Media",
"info": "Our weekly podcast explores how the media 'sausage' is made, casts an incisive eye on fluctuations in the marketplace of ideas, and examines threats to the freedom of information and expression in America and abroad. For one hour a week, the show tries to lift the veil from the process of \"making media,\" especially news media, because it's through that lens that we see the world and the world sees us",
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},
"link": "/radio/program/on-the-media",
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},
"pbs-newshour": {
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"tuneIn": "https://tunein.com/radio/PBS-NewsHour---Full-Show-p425698/",
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},
"perspectives": {
"id": "perspectives",
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"order": 14
},
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"planet-money": {
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"info": "The economy explained. Imagine you could call up a friend and say, Meet me at the bar and tell me what's going on with the economy. Now imagine that's actually a fun evening.",
"airtime": "SUN 3pm-4pm",
"imageSrc": "https://ww2.kqed.org/radio/wp-content/uploads/sites/50/2018/04/planetmoney.jpg",
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},
"link": "/radio/program/planet-money",
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"apple": "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/planet-money/id290783428?mt=2",
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},
"politicalbreakdown": {
"id": "politicalbreakdown",
"title": "Political Breakdown",
"tagline": "Politics from a personal perspective",
"info": "Political Breakdown is a new series that explores the political intersection of California and the nation. Each week hosts Scott Shafer and Marisa Lagos are joined with a new special guest to unpack politics -- with personality — and offer an insider’s glimpse at how politics happens.",
"airtime": "THU 6:30pm-7pm",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Political-Breakdown-2024-Podcast-Tile-703x703-1.jpg",
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"order": 5
},
"link": "/podcasts/politicalbreakdown",
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"amazon": "https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/e0c2d153-ad36-4c8d-901d-f1da6a724824/political-breakdown",
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"possible": {
"id": "possible",
"title": "Possible",
"info": "Possible is hosted by entrepreneur Reid Hoffman and writer Aria Finger. Together in Possible, Hoffman and Finger lead enlightening discussions about building a brighter collective future. The show features interviews with visionary guests like Trevor Noah, Sam Altman and Janette Sadik-Khan. Possible paints an optimistic portrait of the world we can create through science, policy, business, art and our shared humanity. It asks: What if everything goes right for once? How can we get there? Each episode also includes a short fiction story generated by advanced AI GPT-4, serving as a thought-provoking springboard to speculate how humanity could leverage technology for good.",
"airtime": "SUN 2pm",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Possible-Podcast-Tile-360x360-1.jpg",
"officialWebsiteLink": "https://www.possible.fm/",
"meta": {
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"source": "Possible"
},
"link": "/radio/program/possible",
"subscribe": {
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"spotify": "https://open.spotify.com/show/730YpdUSNlMyPQwNnyjp4k"
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},
"pri-the-world": {
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