On this auspicious occasion of my father’s birthday, I finally acted on his months-old suggestion to visit the House of Shields. The website states upfront: “In keeping with tradition, there is no clock on premises, nor is there a T.V.” I must add: There is no designated happy hour– as in no drink specials– and also, perhaps contrary to my father’s half-century-old recollection, no food. In 103 years of history, solid nourishment was served once upon a time, I’m told. Alas, no longer is this the case. So do not show up hungry!
What does exist is a convenient if not surprisingly small spot to get a decent drink in San Francisco’s financial district, anytime throughout the afternoon long into the evening. On the city’s sizable list of historical watering holes, the House of Shields has clearly earned its place, obviously having served countless thirsty patrons throughout the decades. From the intricate woodwork, to the detailed tile, and even to the seemingly original bathroom, you can tell this special place has been around a while and deserves respect. I only wish the overall tone were a bit warmer. Fortunately my acceptably sized Hendricks martini upped the temperature a bit. All in all, I’ll be back!
I certainly recognize the need to adjust and monitor one’s diet in the wake of clogged arteries and bypass surgery. At the same time, I must wonder if doing so really requires foregoing all items derived from animals. Is this not taking healthy eating to the unnecessary and unenjoyable extreme? There’s plenty of “good” meat in a healthy diet, no? Even though he’s in far better health today than a decade ago, Bill is now looking TOO thin, and dare I say older than his age. At 65, he appears he could use a little…er… meat, on his bones.
As you’ve certainly heard me say before, I always love a restaurant that instantly earns a return visit. Unfortunately this is all too often not the case. As such, after a couple rather forgettable meals in the same neighborhood over the past week alone, last night’s last-minute selection proved all the more refreshing.
Ryan R. Sanderson 