October 20, 2011

for the soul

Been busy lately still adjusting to my new job and looking forward to a daunting list of new skills to learn. But I did take a mini-vacay to the Bay this past weekend.  A 45 minute drive out can make all the difference in the world with its rolling, lush green hills replacing the low-ceiling, monochromatic, bleak buildings abundant in the East Bay. We finally tried Thomas Keller's Ad Hoc which was an amazing rustic, soulful restaurant on Washington Street just down the street from his very own Bouchon Bakery and French Laundry.  This dinner made the scenic trip much worth the drive. Now I'm back in OC with two pastries down, missing that fig teacake, but happily reunited with my cutie patootie kitty back home.







































































































































































































October 13, 2011

weekly eats






















































































{el pollo inka} torrance: peruvian saltado pollo
{taiko} irvine: uni & salmon roe
{roma d'italia} tustin: scallop in limone sauce


October 11, 2011

retreat

There was a little slice of Berkeley situated ironically but perfectly so next to the congested 405. As a part of the perfect start to my day, Old Vine Cafe's warm pumpkin pecan french toast with seasonal figs and fruits was so comforting and only satisfying in a way Fall and the coming holidays can bring. I also should've taken the chance to lay in the hammock while waiting for our table...