Weekends in the City

Saturday mornings at the Ferry Building, Blue Bottle coffee in hand, are just another reason to appreciate living in San Francisco. When the sun is shining and people are perusing the endless stands of apples/pears/artisanal cheeses/breads/pasta, you know it is the start to a great weekend.

My love for the Farmers Market is almost as great as the love I have for Slanted Door. I know it has seen a lot of hype, but I think there is something to be said about Charles Phan's ability to create innovative dishes without compromising authentic Vietnamese characteristics. While it is often impossible to get a reservation, Out the Door, the to-go version of the restaurant, is always a trusty standby.

I recommend getting any of the rice dishes, since the broken rice is nothing short of addicting. The grapefruit and jicama salad is a nice accompaniment, so look for it when the season is right.

Lemongrass pork and vegetable:




Grilled 5-spice chicken sandwich:



I also recommend the following places/items in the Ferry Building:

• Lulu Petite- their homemade potato chips are amazing
• Ciao Bella Gelato - I'm not a fan of their gelato, but their blood orange sorbet is to die for
• Acme Bread - green onion bread or epi loaf (same bread they serve at Salt House)
• Delica-rf - Japanese deli that specializes in bento boxes; try the mabo tofu salad
  
• Blue Bottle Coffee - best coffee in the city (permanent residence in Hayes Valley, but they have a Farmers Market booth on Saturdays)
  

During the summer, the Farmers Market has a booth with fried asparagus. The line will be long, but I assure you that it's worth it!

Soon, you won't be able to start your weekend without a trip to the Ferry Building either.