December 8, 2016

San Francisco: The Rotunda in Neiman Marcus, on Union Square; restaurant review

San Francisco

The Rotunda

150 Stockton St./Geary St., in Neiman Marcus, on Union Square, (415) 249-2720 x2465.  L & aft. tea daily; $$$, tea $45-$60.  Sun-W 11-4, Thur-Sat 11-5.  Reservations advised.

ground floor of Neiman Marcus in San Francisco
ground floor of Neiman Marcus in San Francisco


What could be finer than afternoon tea beneath this elegant department store’s gorgeous 1909 stained-glass-domed rotunda?  The Rotunda in Neiman Marcus let's you choose from private and comfy half-moon booths, or tables directly overlooking Union Square.

stained-glass dome at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco
stained-glass dome at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco


The Rotunda tea room at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco
The Rotunda tea room at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco


view of Union Square from The Rotunda tea room at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco
view of Union Square from The Rotunda tea room at Neiman Marcus
in San Francisco


Tea is a choice of black, green, or herbal varieties, and it does change.  My dining partner opted for a lovely Jardin Bleu blend with Indian and Chinese leaves flavored with rhubarb and wild strawberry and accented with blue cornflower petals, while I minimized my caffeine intake and chose a pleasant chamomile.  Each is presented in a small personal teapot, with the leaves brewing in a strainer in the top--a disappointment since I am fond of loose-leaf tea floating around freely in the water and the use of a strainer to collect the leaves as I pour the fragrant brew into my cup.  The serviceware is white--also not my cup of tea since I prefer floral and fussy.  Service beings with a petite cup of chicken consume and a fresh-from-the-oven popover with a side of strawberry butter.

popover and consume at The Rotunda tea room at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco
popover and consume at The Rotunda tea room at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco


The full tea includes a variety of finger sandwiches (we especially liked the chicken salad), a cylindrical prosciutto-wrapped fig, tarts of chocolate and red velvet, cookies, and, of course, scrumptious scones upon which we slathered lemon curd, raspeberry jam, and whipped cream.  The option to add in a glass of Gloria Ferrer Brut or Etoile Brut Rosé is a good one, and it heightens the elegance of the experience.  Lunch selections include the renowned NM Chicken Salad plus a lobster club and burger, and cocktail service is available. 
 
tiered tea tray at The Rotunda tea room at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco
tiered tea tray at The Rotunda tea room at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco


plate of tea-time treats at The Rotunda tea room at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco
plate of tea-time treats at The Rotunda tea room at Neiman Marcus
in San Francisco



Do allow time before or after to browse the beautifully curated collection of goods in this elegant department store.  

clothing display at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco
clothing display at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco


tableware display at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco
tableware display at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco



More things to do in San Francisco.

Way more things to do in San Francisco.

More tea rooms in Northern California.

More tea times around the world.  

More ideas for exploring Northern California.

images ©2016 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

December 1, 2016

San Francisco: Gump’s; things to do

San Francisco

Gump’s  

MOVED  now at 135 Post St./Kearny St., 2 blks. to Union Square.

Opened in 1861, when clipper ships brought in the inventory, Gump's is the oldest store in San Francisco.  It is known for stocking fine oriental imports, carries the city’s largest selection of fine china and crystal, and has an eye-popping collection of American crafts.  Bath products, women’s clothing, and home furnishings are also in the mix.  It is a superb spot to find unusual gifts.  The store is beautifully decorated for Christmas; and be sure to stop in then to view the exceptional ornaments.  A personal shopper is available.      

exterior of Gump's in San Francisco, California
exterior of Gump's in San Francisco, California


Christmas ornaments at Gump's in San Francisco, California
Christmas ornaments at Gump's in San Francisco, California


big Buddha at Gump's in San Francisco, California
big Buddha at Gump's in San Francisco, California


colorful glass items at Gump's in San Francisco, California
colorful glass items at Gump's in San Francisco, California


fabric-ball necklaces at Gump's in San Francisco, California
fabric-ball necklaces at Gump's in San Francisco, California


typewriter-key cufflinks at Gump's in San Francisco, California
typewriter-key cufflinks at Gump's in San Francisco, California



More things to do in San Francisco.

Way more things to do in San Francisco.

More ideas for exploring Northern California.

images ©2016 Carole Terwilliger Meyers
updated 2-2-20

November 22, 2016

Oakland: Bellanico Restaurant & Wine Bar; restaurant review

4238 Park Blvd./Wellington St., Glenview, (510) 336-1180.  L M-F, Sat-SunBr, D daily; $$.  Reservations advised. 

This small neighborhood restaurant produces spectacular Italian fare.  Seating at Bellanico Restaurant & Wine Bar is at tables and chairs, and bar seats handle overflow and solo diners.  A pleasant possibility here on a warm day is sitting outside by the sidewalk, which I did.

exterior of Bellanico Restaurant & Wine Bar in Oakland, California
exterior of Bellanico Restaurant & Wine Bar in Oakland, California


Complimentary bread is long, thin toasts along with a bean spread (sometimes it is bread with fruity olive oil).

toast and bean spread at Bellanico Restaurant & Wine Bar in Oakland, California
toast and bean spread at Bellanico Restaurant & Wine Bar in Oakland, California


You’ll definitely want to try an appetizer, which on the ever-changing menu might be cauliflower fritters, fried squash blossoms stuffed with cauliflower, or housemade burrata with toasts--which is what I shared with a companion.

housemade burrata at Bellanico Restaurant & Wine Bar in Oakland, California
housemade burrata at Bellanico Restaurant & Wine Bar in Oakland, California


A three-course lunch tasting menu is a bargain at $27, but instead we ordered a la carte and shared everything.  Lunch has the option for smaller plates of pasta, but we ordered the regular portion of five beautiful and delicious casunzei ravioli stuffed with red beets.

casunzei ravioli at Bellanico Restaurant & Wine Bar in Oakland, California
casunzei ravioli at Bellanico Restaurant & Wine Bar in Oakland, California


Pasta is housemade, and a few panini are also options.  Swiss chard malfatti and gnocchi described as “delicate pillows of heaven” are on my list for next time.  I’ve also heard good things about the deep-fried meatballs, housemade pesto, and duck pasta.  For dessert think bomboloni Florentine doughnuts, affogato, or warm fruit crostata.

fruit crostata at Bellanico Restaurant & Wine Bar in Oakland, California
fruit crostata at Bellanico Restaurant & Wine Bar in Oakland, California


The only thing I didn’t care for here was the loud music inside.  I wouldn’t have minded the volume if it had been an Italian aria, but it wasn’t.



Way more things to do in Oakland.

More ideas for exploring Northern California.
 

images ©2016 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

November 18, 2016

Pt. Richmond: Up & Under Pub and Grill; restaurant review+things to do

2 W Richmond Ave., (510) 778-1313.  L-D daily; $$.  

This atmospheric pub within a flatiron-style building dominates a corner in Christmasy red-and-green splendor.

exterior of Up & Under Pub and Grill in Pt. Richmond, California
exterior of Up & Under Pub and Grill in Pt. Richmond, California


Inside, the Up & Under Pub and Grill is a woodsy den, with a variety of seating.  I like best the main room where the bar is.

interior of Up & Under Pub and Grill in Pt. Richmond, California
interior of Up & Under Pub and Grill in Pt. Richmond, California


Of course the beer selections are primo, and the menu features nicely battered halibut fish & chips

halibut fish & chips at Up & Under Pub and Grill in Pt. Richmond, California
fish & chips at Up & Under Pub and Grill in Pt. Richmond, California


 and both ahi and regular burgers.  
 
ahi burger at Up & Under Pub and Grill in Pt. Richmond, California
ahi burger at Up & Under Pub and Grill in Pt. Richmond, California


Fries can be limp, and cole slaw is a bust, but the onion rings are worth a go.  Everything from salads, a Caprese sandwich, and BBQ is also available.  Several flat-screen TVs present sporting events.



You'll find these shops and more just around the corner:

Mom & Pop Art Shop

24 West Richmond Ave., (510) 730-1154.

exterior of Mom & Pop Art Shop in Pt. Richmond, California
exterior of Mom & Pop Art Shop in Pt. Richmond, California


This small shop multi-tasks.  It features an inventory of well-priced art supplies and items from local crafts people,

merchandise at Mom & Pop Art Shop in Pt. Richmond, California
merchandise at Mom & Pop Art Shop in Pt. Richmond, California


and it devotes an entire room to an art gallery that features rotating shows of works from artists around the world, including that of the artist-owners.  An “Imaginarium” table provides creative activities, puzzles, and toys for children to try out.

art gallery at Mom & Pop Art Shop in Pt. Richmond, California
art gallery at Mom & Pop Art Shop in Pt. Richmond, California


Outback  

139 W. Richmond Ave., (510) 237 1199.  Sun 11-5, M-Sat 11-6.  

Over the past 30 years this unusual clothing boutique has developed a loyal following.  I first discovered Outback in the outback of Oakland, and have since visited it in many more locations.  Currently it also has outlets in Berkeley and Ashland, Oregon.  You never know what you’ll find--most of the items are closeouts from wholesalers and some are designer labels--and you need to be prepared to try on your selections in a shared dressing room.

exterior of Outback in Pt. Richmond, California
exterior of Outback in Pt. Richmond, California


interior of Outback in Pt. Richmond, California
interior of Outback in Pt. Richmond, California


More things to do in Pt. Richmond.

More things to do in nearby Richmond. 

More ideas for exploring Northern California.

images ©2016 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

November 16, 2016

Berkeley: Espresso Roma (CLOSED); restaurant review

80 North

Espresso Roma  

CLOSED  2960 College Ave./Ashby Ave., Elmwood, (510) 644-3773.  Daily 6:30am-10pm. 

Supremely well located on a busy corner on a popular shopping street, Espresso Roma’s kitchen offers pre-made sandwiches and pastries along with specialty coffees.

exterior of Espresso Roma in Berkeley, California
exterior of Espresso Roma in Berkeley, California


Among the drinks are lavender lemonade, soy chai latte, caramella latte, Italian sodas, draft beers, and my choice--a frothy mocha bianca.

mocha bianca at Espresso Roma in Berkeley, California
mocha bianca at Espresso Roma in Berkeley, California


The breakfast menu includes bagels and eggs.

breakfast menu at Espresso Roma in Berkeley, California
breakfast menu at Espresso Roma in Berkeley, California


For lunch, a sample salad platter includes three salads of your choice--perhaps curried cauliflower, marinated beets, or roasted Brussels sprouts--plus toasted foccacia bread.  From 4 p.m. on, buy a pint and get a free slice of pizza.  Popular as a hangout for students and travel writers completing guidebooks, this spacious coffeehouse has several large rooms with high ceilings and provides plenty of outlets, wi-fi, and good people watching, plus outdoor seating is available in front. 
 
interior at Espresso Roma in Berkeley, California
interior at Espresso Roma in Berkeley, California




Way more things to do in Berkeley. 

More ideas for exploring Northern California.

images ©2016 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

November 10, 2016

Zamora: Matchbook Winery; things to do

5 North

Matchbook Winery  

12300 Country Road 92B, near Hwy. 505, in Zamora, (530) 662-1032.  Tasting daily 11am-4:30pm. 

The contemporary-style Matchbook Winery is way out there, so do check the website for directions.  The wine to taste is The Arsonist, a red blend well described as big, bold, and rich as well as assertive.  In addition to a spectacular and spacious tasting room, a patio with posh seats and tables awaits for relaxing, picnicking, or just enjoying the panoramic view of their Dunnigan Hills vineyards.  Special events are a further enticement to make the trek.  

wine display at Matchbook Winery in Zamora, California
wine display at Matchbook Winery in Zamora, California


patio tasting at Matchbook Winery in Zamora, California
patio tasting at Matchbook Winery in Zamora, California


boxes of The Arsonist wine at Matchbook Winery in Zamora, California
boxes of The Arsonist wine at Matchbook Winery in Zamora, California


exterior of Matchbook Winery in Zamora, California
exterior of Matchbook Winery in Zamora, California


barrel room at Matchbook Winery in Zamora, California
barrel room at Matchbook Winery in Zamora, California



More things to do in nearby Woodland. 

More things to do in nearby Davis.

More ideas for exploring Northern California.

images c2016 Carole Terwilliger Meyers


November 8, 2016

Oakland: Izzy's Steak & Chop House (CLOSED); restaurant review

CLOSED  59 Grand Ave./Webster St., (510) 452-2822.  D daily; $$$. 

Located two blocks west of Lake Merritt, this expansive--the restaurant spreads through three large rooms--yet cozy venue serves quality steaks at competitive prices.  Dining room decor at Izzy's Steak & Chop House includes a collection of antique pub mirrors, beer trays, and ceramic whiskey bottles, as well as a few elk horns.

dining room at Izzy's Steak & Chop House in Oakland, California
dining room at Izzy's Steak & Chop House in Oakland, California


The inviting full bar in front features a high ceiling, slow-spinning fans, and a lighted honey onyx bar with a granite top.

bar at Izzy's Steak & Chop House in Oakland, California
bar at Izzy's Steak & Chop House in Oakland, California


In addition to corn-fed USDA Choice Midwestern beef, the menu includes premium pork chops and fresh fish.  Portions are generous.  Drink choices include a California-centric wine list (we chose a smooth Franciscan cabernet that paired well with our steaks), craft beers, and both classic and original cocktails such as the Izzy’s Manhattan, Dragon Fruit Cosmo, and Hemingway Daiquiri.

wine-opening at Izzy's Steak & Chop House in Oakland, California
wine-opening at Izzy's Steak & Chop House in Oakland, California


Appetizers include salads, a soup, and roasted mussels, as well as sautéed button mushrooms that are more like mushrooms in soup broth (still, we ate them all).  Sourdough bread is complimentary.  For my main course, I ordered the signature New York sirloin steak, which is aged 21-plus days.  It was well-seasoned and cooked to perfection--in my case that is medium.

New York steak at Izzy's Steak & Chop House in Oakland, California
New York steak at Izzy's Steak & Chop House in Oakland, California


More beef cuts include slow-roasted prime rib, filet mignon (which my dining partner chose and indicated was very tender), and filet medallions au poivre with pepper cream sauce.

filet mignon steak at Izzy's Steak & Chop House in Oakland, California
filet mignon steak at Izzy's Steak & Chop House in Oakland, California


Each meal comes with a choice of two sides.  We both chose a baked potato with sour cream, and he added carrots with onions while I added naked steamed broccoli (it needed some flavoring).  More sides include creamed spinach, the chefs’ signature potatoes au gratin, and French fries cut in house.  Housemade desserts are generally rich--New York cheese cake, chocolate mousse cake, and a refreshing Key lime pie--

Key lime pie at Izzy's Steak & Chop House in Oakland, California
Key lime pie at Izzy's Steak & Chop House in Oakland, California


but I found a lighter option, seasonal fresh strawberries with whipped cream.

fresh strawberries and whipped cream at Izzy's Steak & Chop House in Oakland, California
fresh strawberries and whipped cream at Izzy's Steak & Chop House
in Oakland, California




Way more things to do in Oakland.

More ideas for exploring Northern California.
 

images ©2016 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

October 18, 2016

Pt. Richmond: Golden State Model Railroad Museum; things to do

900 Dornan Dr./Garrard Blvd., (510) 234-4884.  Apr-Dec; closed Jan-Mar.  View layouts only, W 11-3 & Sat 12-5; free.  Trains operate only on Sun 12-5; $4, 63+ & 4-11 $2, families $10. 

The immense layout of the Golden State Model Railroad Museum is operated by the East Bay Model Engineers Society, which started in 1933 and is one of the oldest continually operating model railroad clubs in the country.  Club members are seen popping up here and there like meerkats amid the 10,000 square-foot layout, which is the largest in Northern California and which incorporates three scales of toy trains--O, HO, and N--traveling through a miniature California.  My grandkids quickly found the wrecked trains in a gully and injured play animals--one had lost its head.  Oddities abound.  When you arrive, ask for a scavenger hunt worksheet so you can try to find items in the display such as a haunted house and an occupied outhouse.  Theme days occur on the fourth Sunday, and an exciting annual Wreck Day in November finds trains derailing and havoc reigning.

exterior of Golden State Model Railroad Museum in Pt. Richmond, California
exterior of Golden State Model Railroad Museum in Pt. Richmond, California


entrance to Golden State Model Railroad Museum in Pt. Richmond, California
entrance to Golden State Model Railroad Museum in Pt. Richmond, California


interior of Golden State Model Railroad Museum in Pt. Richmond, California
interior of Golden State Model Railroad Museum in Pt. Richmond, California


interior of Golden State Model Railroad Museum in Pt. Richmond, California
interior of Golden State Model Railroad Museum in Pt. Richmond, California






child points out wrecked train at Golden State Model Railroad Museum in Pt. Richmond, California
child points out wrecked train at Golden State Model Railroad Museum
in Pt. Richmond, California


club member at Golden State Model Railroad Museum in Pt. Richmond, California
club member at Golden State Model Railroad Museum in Pt. Richmond, California


layout detail at Golden State Model Railroad Museum in Pt. Richmond, California
layout detail at Golden State Model Railroad Museum in Pt. Richmond, California


More things to do in Pt. Richmond.

More things to do in nearby Richmond.

More ideas for exploring Northern California.

images and video ©2016 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

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