One of my most favorite places in the world is San Francisco. To me, apart from the perfect weather all year round, they have one of the widest mix of cuisines from all over the world. Here, if the food isn’t good, survival is an impossibility. Add to that, my sister Mariles lives here which means I have free board and lodging. Another sister Stella lives in Vancouver which is a short plane ride to SFO. Both my sisters were longtime employees of United Airlines which means they fly all over the world for free. Not only that, they are both foodies who love to eat and explore.  

Mariles has a never-ending list of must-tries for me. Or I just go back to my must-visit places of this bustling city. For this last trip, I have new discoveries both food and with various happenings.  

I was able to watch a Warriors game at the new Chase stadium. It was not just an exciting and fascinating game, there too was a selection of delicious food to choose from. My jaw dropped when I saw star player Steph Curry play. This guy is cool and most certainly gifted. 

Some of my friends who were there for the APEC meet were busy with various activities but I was able to organize a group of 14 to experience what easily could be the most memorable steak meal of the year for us. House of Prime Rib on Van Ness Avenue is always a must when in San Francisco. This time though, not only did I get the largest King Henry cut, I also had it charred, so you get that extra aroma, then I have the cut slices with au jus. That steak was so memorable, I took my kids back a few days after and ordered exactly the same dish. And I wanted to go one more before I flew back to Manila but,  “Tama na, sobra na.” 

One lunch, we didn’t know where to go so I suggested a Mexican food truck I’ve been seeing every time I was in the area. Wow, what a discovery. We each ordered two soft shell tacos with a variety of filling. Carne asada, chicken, lengua etc. Each one was so delicious and authentic. The tortillas were made from corn and each one was served with two tiny tacos. It was one of the most simple yet memorable meals of my visit. My kids all loved the experience of eating on the street.

 To me, though, the highlight meal was one prepared by my brother-in-law Henry and his brother Bombit. This is a yearly Thanksgiving thing at their home. Henry grilled some outstanding USDA Prime Grade ribeye steaks, baked Alaskan King crabs, while Bombet made a delicious fried and crispy turkey. Their brother-in-law Jim smoked a beef brisket for close to half a day. On the sides were the stuffings, cranberry, and delicious gravy. I don’t normally get rattled by a spread, this was an exception. Each item was so, so delicious. I raved about Bombet’s gravy and asked him how he made it. “Oh that’s so easy, I bought it at Popeyes!” That I thought was hilarious. Of course we took whatever we could bring home and had it for dinner that night.

Another first for me was an idea my son Turo and his girlfriend Patricia suggested. Mini golf! Oh it was so much fun. You could buy drinks while putting around the challenging 16 courses. Someone should make this in Manila. Galing! The zoo though was a let-down.

Now, I’m on the plane headed back to Manila and already planning how to go about my diet. This was such a memorable experience with my kids, family, and a special someone. 

I look forward to having more of these. Life is short, continue to build memories is what I say! 

Happy eating!