Sitting by the dock of the bay, tasting Thyme

Recently got back from the City by the Bay...I loved it. Inspiration is flowing heavily now and San Francisco may have been a turning point. I mean, I've eaten in New York and New Orleans, but it wasn't like this. The freshness, the techniques, the respect for the ingredients...I now have some direction I think.

Here's some of the places we stopped off should you ever be in the neighborhood:

Hog Island Oyster Bar The Tomales Bay Sweetwater Oysters, so fresh and briny...you haven't tasted better. Get some of the Oyster Casinos also and a nice glass of Pinot Grigio or Savignon Blanc
Bar Crudo You have to try the Crudo platter. You'll get a plate with four different raw preparations. My favorite one was the Arctic Char Cubes creamy horseradish, tobiko, dill...friggin delightful! The Seared Diver Scallops with Sauteed Seaweed and Roasted Peppers was also incredible. Good wine list also.
Blue Mermaid The Dungeness Crab and Corn Chowder was heavenly...but get the sampler because the Shrimp and Roasted Pepper was awesome too. Great bread and ice cold Anchor Steam beer also reside here.
Harry Denton's Starlight Room Just go. Get yourself a table by the window and a cocktail and plot your scheme for world domination. Probably shouldn't get unruly here. The security staff looks like they play for the Raiders during football season.
The Redwood Room @ the Clift Hotel I suggest you order a Orange Hanger 1 on the rocks and no...that good looking broad on the wall isn't just looking at you...she looks at everyone.

Just like General MacArthur, "I will return...."