Sometimes when I need to clear the head and re-charge, I just take off. Leaving my home, my job and my city most of the time puts things back into perspective. Late Friday night after a tremendous service, I speed over to House of Blues to meet old friends for one of our fave performers, Warren Haynes. I was hoping this would re-charge me so I wouldnt have to pony up for hotel and flights. Nope.
Soon after I arrived home in the wee hours of the AM, I sent out a Twitter message asking which domestic city would most people choose if only for a weekend. I received Chicago, San Francisco, Kansas City, Portland, Louisville, Memphis, Seattle, NYC and a few other randoms. I did a quick search for flights, considering times available and price, and arrived at San Francisco. Booked. I was leaving in 6 hours. Shit, need to get to bed.
Now I realize there are dozens of establishments that I would love to try, but I only have one day. And its raining balls. Ive heard a lot of good things about Flour + Water. Mostly that they make all their own pasta dough, and it comes out pretty good. Thats right up my alley. Im a little different when it comes to choosing a restaurant. I usually stray from the obvious. Although Id like a good meal, I dont need the stuffiness. Plus I can take away many other things from a restaurant than just the food. Location, entrance door, lighting, smells, music, servers, tables, chairs, floors, kitchen view, flatware, I could go on…glassware, buzz, name, logo, I mean I could do this all day…ceiling fans, busy table, color coordination, menu material, cleanliness, soap in bathroom, Its a sickness really.
Flour + Water was Italian, artisan and well designed. I waited for close to an hour for a seat at the bar that looked straight through to the kitchen.
Well worth the wait. I had the pasta tasting with All Italian wine pairings. Perfect. Cant wait to go back.
Directly before, I made a point to trek through the rain to get a coffee at Four Barrel. Another gorgeous establishment doing fine work.
Did I come back with a clear head? Dont think so, but it sure was fun! Trying to kill hours at the airport and on planes, I had the opportunity to finish Grant Achatz book, Life, On the Line. It was a perfect birthday gift. Pretty inspiring in itself. Must read for any chef and/or restaurateur. Real shit.
I also realized I am now the guy in the restaurant with a huge camera. What is happening to me? I can attest, it was work related.
Thanks for reading and stay tuned for Paulfeeds.com.
pauliepetro 