Everyone wants to be in the perfect spot to see those fire works. Trouble is, everyone wants to be in the perfect spot to see those fire works. The trick has always been to get up high in a place that is not obvious or accessible by the general public. If you can drag along some beer and good food, you just hit July 4th nirvana. That’s why Brooklyn Grange Fourth of July might be the best ticket in town. No dragging of food or drink, limited number of people get access AND, it might be the best view of the fireworks short of being on the Grucci Brother barge. These tix will go fast. July 4th from 7-10pm in Queens, NYC.
More Dinner Places
Pasta Flyer Supper Series
If we stand for anything, it’s dinner. The more special the more better. When we discovered Mark Ladner, pasta making magician of Del Posto and Lupa fame, was celebrating his one year anniversary of his fast-casual Pasta Flyer with a supper series we we’re psyched to say the least. An already high-rotation, week day, post-workout, dinner for us because of the incredible value Mark and team bring to the literal table…Secret best meatballs in city, secret great wines by the glass…he’s crafted this dinner series with some of his best chef friends. From the likes of Mario Carbone to Maialino’s Nick Anderer to Barbara Lynch (who has the best oyster bar in Boston amongst her food dynasty) the menu creations are bound to be off the chain. We’re not sure what we’re most excited about. Two Italian’s in the same kitchen or a food storyteller augmenting the current Pasta Flyer menu. It looks like this was a Resy and Applestone collab too. Props to them as we recently were swooned by the 24/7 butcher. Tickets will undoubtedly go quick so make a move briskly. September 26th through November 7th in NYC.
Hayground Chef’s Dinner
Dinner, food science, your favorite chefs and helping kids. We should end this post right there. There won’t be a better sentence than that in the rest of this post. Despite that not even being a full sentence, we’ll fill you in a bit more. Jeff Salaway was one of the founders of Hayground school and he passed in 2001. His friends and family carried on his mission which is best summed up in the following quote. Jeff believed, “The growing, preparation and sharing of food is a primal human experience and the foundation of family and community.” Sounds a lot like what we’re always talking up. No wonder we were enamored by this event and the work the Hayground School is doing with kids. Although a seat at Hayground Chef’s Dinner is a steep one, it couldn’t benefit a more important cause. Teach a kid to fish Jesus once said. Or, was that Tom Colicchio? Either way, invaluable skills. Sunday, July 31st at 6pm in Southhold, New York.
Collective Felix Supperclub 2016
Every year one of the grandfathers of the supperclub movement leaves Buenes Aires for the US. When they land, Collectivo Felix complete a multi-city tour popping up dinners in some of the best know pop-ups in the states. One of those stops is always at The Whisk and Ladle. We can’t say enough about these two Gastro-awesome friends so all we’ll say is, get a ticket. The evening will be amazing with every sip and bite BUT more special, you’ll be hosted by one of the originators of the movement in one of the original spaces that supperclubs were reborn. April 30th @ 7pm in Brooklyn.
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. 🍝✨