dinner at maybeck's in san francisco

I had a wonderful dinner last night with my dear girlfriends to celebrate my birthday.  My friends really pulled out all the stops--starting with, it was a surprise!  I was to meet Judy downtown at 5:00 and then, see what would happen. We began with a nice glass of wine at the Four Seasons. We then took an Uber and arrived at Maybeck's on Scott Street in the Marina. Inside, my friends had set up the private room with flowers and place cards and candles--it was beautiful!

Wednesday night Maybeck's features Beef Wellington and if that is not fantastic enough, at 7 pm promptly, you are invited into the kitchen where chef Eric Lowe talks about the preparation and makes the first cut into the Wellingtons---they were a thing of beauty!  Back at the table, we started with grilled/smoked artichokes with remoulade and halibut crudo with chili/lemon olive oil.  The Beef Wellington was served with black truffle au jus---creamed spinach was served on the side.  The beef was so tender you could cut it with your fork.  My dear friends continued the surprise with a cake made by SusieCakes on Chestnut Street, with a sweet butter cream frosting just like you remember from childhood and the perfect birthday cake!  Truly a wonderful evening I will never forget!

thanksgiving 2015

I was so blessed this year to be with my family in Crescent City!  Not only was it a Thanksgiving celebration, but my brother's birthday, as well.  My parents' created and cooked a beautiful menu that included a custom ordered prime rib that was a thing of beauty.  Beef is still king--plus whipped cream horseradish!  Pumpkin pie and peanut butter chocolate cream pie sealed the meal!

thanksgiving at the house of prime rib

This Thanksgiving Brendan and I went to the House of Prime Rib for our 'fix'.  As many of you know, it is one of our favorite restaurants, and although it is not something to eat everyday, it is at least a couple times a year indulgence and worth every darn fat gram and calorie.

Let me explain.  This temple of old school deliciousness located at 1906 Van Ness Avenue in San Francisco was established in 1949 and has been turning out near exacting meals ever since.  Specially selected cuts of beef, salt packed and roasted off to perfection are served with warm loaves of sourdough bread, a house salad tossed (well, spun) table side, creamed spinach, baked potatoes with all the toppings, Yorkshire pudding and pan au jus---all for one reasonable price!  If you have the room, finish with the creme brulee.  This year, Brendan I are giving thanks for many things---but included in that is an enduring friendship with wonderful time shared at a landmark restaurant that also continues to stand the test of time.