My seven-year-old informed me that it’s not cool for me to read books or play games with him. My youngest is more interested in shadowing his brother than hanging with me. My life is no longer consumed with diapers, crying babies or sleepless nights. The time has come to “on-ramp,” aka go back to work. I stumbled across an ad for freelance writers to review their favorite “drinkeries.” Thirsty? SF, published by Hungry City Guides, is a dining and drinking guide. It will make its debut later this year . Here’s a taste of what I’ve been up to.
TOWN – 716 Laurel Street, San Carlos/650-595-3003
This local hot spot gives its sleepy suburb a jolt.
Popular Drink: Get ready to pucker for a mouth-watering Lemon Drop. Fresh ingredients mixed with hand-squeezed Meyer lemons makes this drink ripe for drinking.
Unique Drink: Looking for romance? The Passion Fruit Martini is a mixture of fresh squeezed juices and fresh fruit puree that drives the natives wild.
Food: Chops, steak and seafood
Seating: indoor/outdoor seating. Traditional steak house with sophisticated leather booths, chef’s-counter seating and circular bar.
Ambience/Clientele: Sophisticated diners mixed with the local hipsters make for a high-energy and fun social scene. The place is loud, but no one seems to mind. The energy, décor, smiles and cheers from happy employees make it worthwhile.
Extra/Notes: This is the only restaurant in sleepy San Carlos that will be hoppin’ past 10:30pm. Oh and men, watch out! You might get cougared.
LISA’S TEA TREASURES – 1175 Merrill Street, MPK/650-322-5544
Pirates beware. Lisa’s Tea Treasures is a girly girl’s fantasy.
Popular Drink: The traditionalist will want to try a cup of Royal Wedding tea. Marry it with a lemon-buttered tea biscuit and you have a perfect romance.
Unique Drink: On a diet? Enjoy a backlash with the Butter Truffle tea. The locals say it’s like eating a box of cookies.
Food: Scones, tea sandwiches, petite fours are all available.
Seating: Do I hear tinker bell? Guests are seated in elegant armchairs at linen-clothed tables dressed with china, silverware and a small silver bell to ring for service.
Ambience/Clientele: Soft glow of vintage lamps along with warm and friendly smiles make this a magical place. You’ll find guests both young and old at this quaint and cozy tea salon.
Extra/Notes: For a special treat, consider taking your favorite little one for their first tea. The menu will peak their interests. The cherished friend may find a trip to Lisa’s the perfect gift as she enjoys teas from far corners of the world and meanders through their gift parlour.
TOKIE’S – 1058 Shell Blvd, Foster City/650-570-6609
This Japanese restaurant has a face behind its name that dates back to 1955.
Popular Drink: What would fresh sushi be without a maverick sake? Ask for the Kurosawa, unfiltered cold sake.
Unique Drink: Try Hana Awaka for a unique twist on sake. It’s sweet, bursting with bubbles and tastes like sparkling champagne.
Food: Traditional Japanese cuisine, appetizers, fresh sushi and homemade desserts.
Seating: Indoor seating, sushi bar and Tatami room.
Ambience/Clientele: Authentic décor, warm smiles and a relaxed atmosphere make this restaurant a hidden gem. Don’t be surprised if you bump into local talent or diners who come from far and wide.
Extra/Notes: The mild-mannered owner, Tokie, has been perfecting her dream for more than 50 years. Her homemade desserts are mouthwatering. Her sushi chefs are friendly, conversational and can recommend the best sake. They’ll even make their own creative sushi dishes, if you ask!
