Most Italian meals we make from memory. Burned into our brains as kids between our grandmother and mother making dinner each night. The magic of Sundays and holidays always brought new dishes across our plates. When we do need help one of the books we reach for is The Frankies Spuntino Kitchen Companion & Cooking Manual. It’s simple, classic and filled with stories. Just the way we like it. Now, the Franks have introduced a little of that childhood cooking feels back into our lives with their Frankies “Cook the Book” Club. Each month you get 3 dishes to feed 4-6 guests. Curated and pre-prepared by the Frankies team the accompanying instructions guarantee a perfect meal and a bolstered kitchen confidence. Think, Radish Salad with Parsley, and Red-Wine Braised Short Ribs with Rosemary & Fennel. You just need to do a little finishing. Just enough to make you feel accomplished. If you are a fan up plus ups, The two Franks provide a scratch for that itch too. A proper wine pairing or a bottle of Frankies’ Olive Oil is easy to include in your box. As a bonus, the club comes with 10% off all in-store purchases at the Frankies Pantry, their mini-alimentari. First access to events, collaborations, and new membership offerings, like their Provisions Box.
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Indulging in Unconventional Sardinian Delights at La Cicca
Prepare to have your taste buds challenged and delighted as we embark on a culinary escapade to this gorgeous island off the east coast of Italy—Sardinia. We’ll explore the unconventional bites that make La Cicca in San Francisco a must-visit.
Starting Strong
We kicked off our Sardinian feast with a plate of Burrata cheese adorned with Arugula, Anchovies, and a Truffles dressing. A bold introduction to the unique flavors that awaited us.
Seafood Sensation
Shaved Bottarga and Celery Salad followed—a dish that showcased the distinctive taste of dried mullet roe. The perfect precursor to the culinary adventure ahead.
Outrageous Octopus
Prepare for a visual and flavorful spectacle with the Baby Octopus stew in a spicy Tomato Sauce. Outrageous and a true showstopper on the table.
Pasta Perfection
Our journey through Sardinian cuisine continued with the rich and hearty Cavatelli Pork Sugo, setting the stage for the flavor bomb that was Fresh Fettucine with Seafood, Citrus Zest, all bathed in Squid Ink.
Secondi Triumphs
Seared Cod with Tomato, Olives, Capers, and Almonds graced our table—a perfect balance of flavors. Accompanied by a show-stopping Seared Lamb Tenderloin Tagliata Sardinian Saba, where Saba, akin to aged balsamic vinegar, added a rich and sweet note.
Amidst Friends and Laughter
Joined by two dearest and oldest friends, our lively conversation crescendoed throughout the meal. Laughter echoed, and we even earned a private stash of Mirto, an amaro-like digestivo, from the owner.
A Taste of Sardinia in San Francisco
Sardinian cuisine may not be synonymous with a classic red sauce joint or San Francisco, but La Cicca is changing that narrative. In the heart of the city, this Italian gem offers a unique culinary experience that might not be for everyone, but trust us—it’s all delicious.
For its bold flavors, unconventional delights, and a touch of Sardinian charm, La Cicca secures the #3 spot on our list of the 10 best Italian restaurants in San Francisco. Join us in redefining your Italian dining experience on the west coast. 🍝✨
A Solo Culinary Symphony at Penny Roma: An Unexpected Pasta Extravaganza
Ah, the joy of dining alone—no need to share, compromise, or fret over conflicting tastes. On a recent escapade through the vibrant culinary scene of San Francisco, I found myself at the quaint and charming Penny Roma, a newish spot from the seasoned pros at Flour + Water. Nestled at the back of the restaurant, I discovered my cozy perch at a small food bar, where the magic was about to unfold.
Here’s the video or jump below to keep reading.
As I settled into my seat, a glass of red, Italian, natural wine materialized, setting the tone for an evening of indulgence. With a moment to soak in my surroundings and contemplate the forthcoming feast, the server discreetly shared a secret: half portions of all pasta dishes were available for solo diners like myself. Naturally, my focus gravitated towards the heart of the menu.
First on the agenda was a crisp and refreshing little gem lettuce salad with pear, walnut, and blue cheese—an impeccable palate cleanser paving the way for the pasta parade that lay ahead.
With a mission to savor the breadth of Penny Roma’s offerings, I dove into four pasta courses, each a symphony of flavors and textures.
1. Cacio e Pepe
Classic in flavor, yet a texture revelation. The pasta’s thickness initially delighted my taste buds, but by the third bite, a thought crept in—how would I manage three more pasta courses?
2. Pappardelle with Chanterelles and King Trumpets
A dish where fall gracefully transitioned into winter, bathed in shallot cream and crowned with Parmigiano Reggiano. Umami at its finest, leaving me eager for the next act.
3. Strozzapreti al Nero di Seppia
Black ink pasta, a medley of fennel, Calabrian chili, oregano, and the delightful crunch bomb of toasted breadcrumbs. A daring composition that danced on my taste buds, defying convention.
4. Lasagna Bolognese
A classic red sauce joint creation, marrying veal ragu with marinara and béchamel sauces—a nostalgic nod to the culinary prowess of nonnas past.
Just when I thought my journey had reached its crescendo, the allure of dessert beckoned. Despite reservations, I succumbed to the temptation of an olive oil cake. However, this was no ordinary dessert—ginger, mascarpone cream, and sugared persimmon transformed a common treat into a twisted masterpiece.
In the end, Penny Roma had exceeded all expectations. A new school gem with an old school heart, it artfully navigated the delicate balance between tradition and innovation. You’ve truly dialed it in, leaving this solo diner utterly enchanted and thoroughly satisfied. Bravo! 🍝🎉
This is on the map. Check it out for all our Italian-American spots across the country.
Almodovar’s Night Pop-Up Dinner
Spain has some of the best food and films in the world. Focusing on the filmography of Pedro Almodovar (You know, the “Volver” and “The Skin I Live In” guy) Antonio Ortuno brings this food to NYC with his Almodovar’s Night Pop-Up Dinner. Each of his 4 courses is based on a different one of Almodovar’s films. Get your Spain on Saturday, March 19 @ 7:30 PM in Brooklyn.
Grand Central Market Movies – Big
Zoltar has spoken, and your wish has been granted: yes, you can watch ‘Big’ on the patio at Los Angeles’ Grand Central Market while sampling from Horse Thief BBQ’s menu of Texan meats and veggie-centric sides. We promise that the magic of the evening will be restricted to the movie’s storyline, Tom Hank’s performance, and the restaurant’s non-Hollywood dishes like brisket, apple and pomegranate salad – that is, of course, unless you decide to try your luck with an unplugged fortune-telling machine, in which case, see you at FAO Schwartz on the human sized piano. Wednesday, August 3rd at 8pm in Grand Central Market, Downtown LA.