When I think of North Beach in San Francisco, I think of all of the Italian restaurants that line the streets. But located just off Washington Square Park on the corner of Union and Powell is The Square SF.The Square SF opened earlier this year in the location that used to be the famous Washington Square Bar & Grill. But today, The Square is a modern gastropub.
When my friend mentioned that we were going to Verbena for dinner during our food tour of San Francisco, I hadn't heard of the new restaurant by Chef Sean Baker, but I had heard of his other restaurant, Gather, in Oakland. Considering Gather's reputation for local, sustainable fresh ingredients, I was rather excited.
Located on Polk Ave in the hip Russian Hill, Verbena is a quintessential Northern California restaurant from the menu to the sustainable, natural decor. The menu is produce-focused but has a fair amount of omnivore options. And all of the products used come from small artisan farmers and ranchers in the area with which they have direct relationship.
We started with cocktails which feature seasonal ingredients and spirits from small producers.
It’s Cinco de Mayo and therefore it’s Tequila time!. After all, here in the US, we always love a reason to go out and celebrate. But if you want to avoid the crowds and excessive revelry, it’s just as easy to stay home and celebrate with friends. That’s we what prefer. And what better way to enjoy tequila, other than neat, but in a Margarita.
Now, when it comes to making your Margaritas at home, we are not suggesting that you run out and buy overly sweet mixers made with unnatural ingredients. All you need is three ingredients the famous Tommy’s Original Margarita, which originates from Tommy’s in San Francisco. The result will be a simple and refreshing drink to enjoy this Cinco de Mayo, or anytime!