About Ryan
Read on, and you might find something interesting...
Today’s growing production of diesel-engine cars, especially large diesel luxury cars, has certainly piqued my interest. First, I think, it’s the early 1980s all over again, when at one point Mercedes-Benz offered five diesel-engine models in its U.S. lineup. Granted, if nothing else, this time around has already proven much cleaner and quieter.
An increasingly common badge on the road
Then, I continue to think, it’s time for me to get out and drive at least a couple of the various new luxury diesel models, to really see and feel what diesel-circa-2011 is all about. (Personal diesel trucks have existed all along and are another story altogether.) The last occasion on which I recall driving a diesel car was in 1992, when I enjoyed the use of a 1982 300 SD. Clearly, times have since evolved, and it’s safe to guess that diesels of today, with a nod to Audi, will accelerate faster than I can run!
If diesels are now or becoming poised to compete with hybrids, while offering competitive MPG with superior power, then I’m all for it. After all, my hybrid-driving experience has thus far yielded about as much satisfaction as riding a city bus. The diesel comeback has my attention. Now let’s see if it wins!
Tags: diesel comeback, diesel luxury cars, diesel models
For a relatively short yet satisfying bicycle workout, I highly recommend Canada Road, starting at the junction of Highways 280 and 92, next to the Upper Crystal Springs Reservoir.
This stretch has been a part of my longer treks on several occasions, most notably via a few Alto Velo club rides. Most recently, I’ve been making the easy jaunt down from San Francisco for a quick spin on what’s proven to be some satisfactory nearby open road. Following Canada Road into Woodside, then adding a short loop around Sand Hill Road before heading back to the start point, will give you a whopping total distance of 20 miles. Do it twice, or three times, if you have the energy and aren’t bored with scenic repetition. I have yet to add of few legs onto the route, which I hope to do on my next visit, possibly over into Belmont and back.
Perhaps the best, yet most crowded, time to cycle on Canada Road is on “Bicycle Sunday,” when a good stretch heading south from Hwy 92 is closed to all motor traffic from 9am to 3pm.
This is merely a small, very easy, yet relatively enjoyable cycling suggestion, if you’re unfamiliar with the area or just tired of pedaling through the city!
Tags: bicycle Sunday, Canada Road, Peninsula cycling, San Francisco cycling
One of my favorite journalistic sources to check out on a regular basis is the “On This Day” page in the online version of The New York Times. It’s a succinct and well-organized snapshot of various historical moments that have occurred on any given calendar date. Prominent among the content, to my keen interest, is a generous handful of noteworthy individuals, both living and dead, whose birthday falls on this day. The page was recently redesigned, and I appreciate the many visual improvements all around.
I recommend this page as a quick and interesting dose of history du jour. After all, something of course has always happened every day. No doubt this will continue!
Tags: Birthdays of the Day, Events in History, NYTimes.com
A fascinating journey back in time it was, as I felt in some moments I was reading the article on the date it actually first appeared. Suffice to say, this piece published in Car and Driver on the numerically catching date of 7-7-77 is well worth a relaxing and informative read for car lovers who appreciate distinctive events of automotive history.
It’s likely no surprise by now as to what make of car I’m discussing here. The surprises, for me, were for one, that the fastest production sedan in the world at the time, putting out by today’s standards a paltry 286 HP, cost just $40,000 in 1977, and for another, that apparently you could then buy a Rolls Royce for the same price. No doubt 40 Gs made for a very large amount of money for any car 34 years ago. Still, I thought the model at hand would have cost a bit more, considering I recall one of its somewhat-lesser relatives costing $39,000 in 1980. And RR would presumably have been on its own higher plateau, much like today.
The subject of this article remains on my lifetime wish list of models I would love to own. Many similar enthusiasts share my sentiment, and the buys are definitely out there. But no power seats?! Shocking indeed.
If you’re so inclined as some form of a car nut, sit down with a cup of coffee and experience the same automotive time warp that I did. For all you may already know, there’s certainly enough material at hand to learn something new and interesting.
The Ruler of the Day
Tags: Mercedes-Benz 6.9, Mercedes-Benz history
More Than Moo...
My bison steak dinner at Big Four this past weekend was so deliciously satisfying, that it’s still on my mind three days later. Several bison meals have generously satisfied my demanding hunger over the years, especially in Kansas where such meat rules the land. I must go so far as to say, however, that Big Four’s preparation is definitely the best I’ve had to date.
Dense, lean and wonderfully intense in natural flavor, bison meat far outshines the best cut of any standard cow, if I may say so. If you’re the adventurous, discerning and hungry carnivore that I am, a bison dinner should in no way disappoint you. Certainly have it at Big Four if you’re anywhere near San Francisco. Then, if you’re the home-cooked type, this useful website will come in handy.
Bon Appetit!
Tags: Big four, Bison dinners, Bison preparation
The Oscars always make for a jovial and memorable evening, while serving as an acceptable excuse to either host or attend a well-dressed, booze-flowing get together. I regret to report I did neither this year.
Then, the day after, comes the typical crisscrossing of scathing Oscar commentary from just about everyone and anyone in Hollywood who has something to say. I don’t blame them. If I were (still) a Hollywood type, or at least working in that arena, I’d have much more to share right now than I do. However, seeing as San Francisco is now my home and I’m not chasing the tails of Big Screen glamour, I here now defer to the true critics of the event. Variety has this to say about last night’s very-somewhat-shortened telecast, while The Hollywood Reporter offers up this review of this year’s two “young” co-hosts. Check them out if you haven’t yet reached your Oscar coverage capacity.
I will say is this: James Franco in drag, especially a la Marilyn, wins. An extended speaking appearance by 94-year-old Kirk Douglas, for better and for worse, wins as well. And that which no one can go without mentioning, including myself apparently, makes for win number three as far as I’m concerned. This, of course, would be Melissa Leo’s now-famous f-bomb, the first such “bomb” in Oscars history so it’s said. My reaction: So the “f-bomb” what! Or better yet: “Big “f-bomb” deal! WTF with obsessing over the F? Granted, it was certainly the letter of the night, if as nothing else than an overall grade by many critics. As for Ms. Leo, she was emotional, and it was natural ad-libbing, so cut the woman some slack. At least she extemporaneously earned a unique, though hopefully not detrimentally lasting, title for herself!
And that’s my opinion, sans another F.
Tags: Academy Awards, F-bomb, Oscars Review
It looks like a compelling new film is upon us. Watch the trailer and see for yourself. Regardless of how this movie turns out, and despite the wide range of opinions of the story and its author, I’m very pleased that such a famous and controversial novel has been adapted to the big screen.
This means I have seven weeks, should I suddenly decide I’m so inclined, to finish the book that was gifted to me more than a year ago. Suffice to say, the read is complex and slow, requiring consistent concentration and ongoing mental puzzle piecing. After getting about a fourth of the way through the book several months ago, I’m sorry to say I did not stay with it. However, I did say to myself at the time, more than once: “What would the movie look like?”
As such, the film has already sold me, and I’m looking forward to the experience. After all, I read and remember enough of the story to be “on board” with the plot, though at this point the end remains a mystery to me. In any event, it will be fascinating to see how these brought-to-view characters not only unfold before our eyes, but where and how they end up.
By the time I’m walking out of the theater, I’ll expect to have finally answered the “big” question, whether via print or visual. In any case, this upcoming film certainly looks worthwhile, deserving of more than a shrug.
And that’s my opinion.
Tags: film adaptations, social history
“The wine is deep ruby red in color and is exploding with spicy cherry and earthy raspberry aromas, with a hint of anise and white pepper. The palate delivers flavors of black cherry framed nicely by bright acidity and ripe mouth coating tannins.”
The Words of Wine
If you were to taste this wine without having read the above description, would you snap to attention and shout out: “Spicy Cherry! Earthy Raspberry! White Pepper!” Or rather, are such words forming and steering your experience for you, before you can even begin to consider your own true reaction?
If such words of wine have you tongue-tied if not palate-confused, then it’s high time for a read of this very well-written and informative article in today’s New York Times. Decide for yourself if you’re one for “sweet,” or for “savory,” or if you have some another, better words altogether. In any case, with a nod to the article, I’m certainly one for streamlining the efficiency of clarifying our wine preferences. Perhaps you are too.
While such typical wine-tasting descriptions can be creative and marketable exercises in palate anticipation, they are typically, if not always, open to interpretation. At least that’s my wine-loving opinion!
Tags: wine, wine descriptions, wine tasting
I bring you now this reflective dose of music history, thanks to the wonderful classic that welcomely entered and remained in my head yesterday:
“Both Sides, Now” is a single by Joni Mitchell. Her recording first appeared on the album Clouds, released in 1969. She re-recorded the song in a Jazz style for the album of the same name, released in 2000. It is one of Joni Mitchell’s best-known songs (with “Big Yellow Taxi,” “Woodstock,” and “A Case of You”). It was written in March 1967, inspired by a passage in Henderson the Rain King by Saul Bellow. Judy Collins made the first commercially released recording of the song in 1968, shortly after Mitchell wrote it, which reached #8 on the U.S. pop singles charts and won a 1968 Grammy Award for Best Folk Performance. The record peaked at #3 on Billboard’s Easy Listening survey, and has become one of Collins’ signature songs. (Wikipedia.org)
As impressive as the song itself, is the significant number of star performers who’ve recorded it in their own respective styles. Such distinctive voices as Frank Sinatra, Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton have taken their turns at these lyrics, each rendition unique from the next. If you know and appreciate “Both Sides, Now,” then you certainly have numerous listening options, as well as something satisfying to hum today!
Tags: Both Sides Now, Joni Mitchell
They might be called the ultimate comfort food, definitely unique and delicious. “Spicy Irish Potato Bites” at The Chieftain, those I discovered and briefly mentioned here back in November, seem to satisfy the most growling palate. Just be sure to specify “well done” so that they’re not cold in the middle, as I learned the first time around.
More than what you might imagine as a “bite,” these clever pub morsels are large, deep-fried balls of mashed potatoes, complete with jalapeno pieces baked inside to earn their “spicy” label. Five of them for $7.95 are a great and filling deal, especially on a cold rainy day when you find yourself anywhere near San Francisco’s northwest corner of 5th and Howard.
The bites don’t fail. What does fail is the special $4.00 Bombay martini with which you might opt to wash down your bites. Whether bartender skill or price justification, the pour level is horrifically low. And if you’ve ever had a drink with me, you know my sensitivity to low pours! To avoid such potential suffering, I recommend a draft, preferably a Killkenny, as the suitable bite accompaniment.
And this is just the beginning of a complete Irish Pub menu. The corned beef, ahi burger and fish-n-chips await sampling and review. Considering the Chieftain celebrates its first decade anniversary next month, now you have one more reason to pay a visit and have a bite!
Tags: SF Irish Pubs, SF restaurant review, The Chieftain
In that fantastic Mercedes-Benz commercial that aired during the Super Bowl ten days ago, four new models were “welcomed to the family.” At that time, I quietly contemplated my surprising realization that I could not immediately name one of them. We saw the second-generation CLS, the third-generation SLK, the elegantly reigning SLS, and… a fourth emerging family member whom I myself had not yet identified.
The mystery, for me at least, has ended. Yet another exciting and welcome addition to the MBZ line has been revealed in its entirety, via the Mercedes-Benz Facebook page among other outlets. My instant take is this: The new car is handsome overall, even more so when its muscular lines are looked upon from the front and side; the model is very sensible and practical in its place in the lengthy MBZ hierarchy; and perhaps most of all, this addition is sure to be an immediate and formidable rival to its already-established competition, namely the BMW 3-series models of two doors.
I join Mercedes-Benz in welcoming to the family, the all-new C-Class Coupe!
Welcome, C-Coupe!
Tags: C-Class Coupe, mercedes-benz
And now, a sprinkling of history on this auspicious day of romance:
Saint Valentine’s Day, commonly shortened to Valentine’s Day, is an annual commemoration held on February 14 celebrating love and affection between intimate companions. The day is named after one or more early Christian martyrs, Saint Valentine, and was established by Pope Gelasius I in 496 AD. It was deleted from the Roman calendar of saints in 1969 by Pope Paul VI, but its religious observance is still permitted. It is traditionally a day on which lovers express their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery, and sending greeting cards (known as “valentines”). The day first became associated with romantic love in the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the High Middle Ages, when the tradition of courtly love flourished. Modern Valentine’s Day symbols include the heart-shaped outline, doves, and the figure of the winged Cupid. Since the 19th century, handwritten valentines have given way to mass-produced greeting cards.
If your interest is piqued, continue here for more on Wikipedia, and check out this link at history.com as well.
I know many the bitter cynic who find this day meaningless and undeserving of observance. With them I could not disagree more. Rich in “heart history,” and no matter one’s relationship status, Valentine’s Day is a unique occasion to be enjoyed in one way or another.
And that’s my heartfelt opinion. 🙂
One of many ways to look at it...
Tags: love & romance, Valentine history, Valentine's Day
I do not smoke cigarettes. Still, I say those who do certainly have the right, especially in the privacy of their own space. Health issues and social judgments aside, it’s legal, if nothing else. As such, I find this article in today’s New York Times absolutely appalling.
It’s one thing to ban smoking in enclosed public places, and some such prohibitions are sensible. However, the practices described in the NYT piece simply go too far. How dare any employer intrude upon the legal practices, however unhealthy, of any employee’s private life. As mentioned, smoking is not unique in terms of the damage most people do to their bodies and health in one way or another. Is there no end? Shall employers start passing up applicants who drink alcohol, eat fried food, or sleep around?
The nanny state, or at least the mentality thereof, often oversteps. This is yet another example of such behavior. As always, I believe in letting people do what they want to themselves, especially when it’s private and legal, and most certainly without threat to employment. In any case, it’s a smokin’ issue to consider, study and debate.
And that’s my opinion!
Tags: nanny state, smokers' rights, smoking
At the northern base of the Golden Gate Bridge come the Marin Headlands. As suggested to me a few weeks back, I took a bicycle jaunt, finally, through the freshly paved roads of the area. In addition to the varied and rugged terrain comes this absolutely spectacular, almost aerial, view.
From atop the Marin Headlands
And so, here we have yet another option for a relatively short cycling loop close to the city, one that I obviously recommend. You can catch your breath with the view after a challenging climb and before a rewarding descent… and before some more climbing. Next time I’ll need to extend the loop for a more respectable total distance!
In addition to the game itself, another much-planned-for event took place this past Super Bowl Sunday, one that has naturally incited all sorts of reaction and commentary from numerous points of view. I’m speaking of the “Super O” exchange, otherwise known as Bill O’Reilly’s one-on-one live interview with President Obama.
Many viewers, along with plenty who likely didn’t watch the interview at all, might already have their minds made up as to what they think of the entire meeting, based primarily on their respective opinions of the two men themselves. I call this unfortunate, as I believe the interview is well worth a prejudice-free watching.
All things considered, this “Super O” interview is a success in my book, as both O’s deserve fair and ample credit. Mr. O’Reilly steered the conversation effectively, being politely confrontational while still presidentially respectful. Mr. Obama spoke with some refreshing candor and somewhat informal style, while conveying his points clearly and not managing to “run out the clock” as anticipated. Mr. O’Reilly’s “interruptions” saved this from happening, of course, keeping the mutual dialogue engaging, extemporaneous and even mildly entertaining.
Watch the interview here for yourself, if you haven’t already. Then, and only then, read some of the post analysis. I’ll be glad to hear what you think.
Simple conclusion: High marks for both O’s, politics aside. And that’s my opinion.
Tags: Bill O'Reilly, O'Reilly-Obama interview
It should come as no surprise that my favorite Super Bowl commercials were those for cars. Perhaps the surprise lies in the idea that a rival to my always-preferred Mercedes-Benz seems to have stolen the show, at least in my book.
Of course the MBZ spot was absolutely fantastic and powerfully moving, so to speak, laden with captivating nostalgia while launching us into an exciting future. It’s at least my number two. Then, another extensively and brilliantly produced car spot held my attention all the way to its disappointing finish. In this case, the revelation of just exactly the car being advertised was a pure let down. Sorry KIA, while your spot had me going there, you yourself don’t excite me. Thankfully, I got a good chuckle out of BMW’s ad for the 335d, as it poked exaggerated yet somewhat truthful fun at the various “dirty” diesels of yesteryear. All the while, amid mounds of visual stimulation and historical contemplation, I do believe my choice of favorite Super Bowl ad, if I were to choose just one, has to go to the celebrity-studded work of comedy itself, one I’ll need to watch a couple more times to thoroughly absorb all its crisscrossing elements. This “winner” of which I speak, to my aforementioned surprise, is Audi. The new A8 has arrived via advertising dominance!
Beer and chips sell themselves as far as I’m concerned. This said, I do appreciate Dorito’s homoerotic undertones, intentional or not. Meanwhile, the NFL itself touched the nostalgia nerve in a wonderful way. And any appearance by the terrifically shameless Joan Rivers, complete in all her camp, always spells success. Last night’s was no exception. Finally, with another nod to homoeroticism, let’s not forget to “cram it in the boot!” Mini’s hysterical ad is most certainly my number three!
Out of all of this, including all I’m forgetting to mention, the car ads stand as my winners. I’m just sorry Betty White was too busy to make any appearance this time around!
All said, that’s my opinion!
Tags: audi, cram it in the boot!, mercedes-benz, mini, super bowl ads
Cycling through the narrow, winding roads of the Presidio is proving to be not just physically satisfying, but pleasingly educational as well.
While the park’s hilly terrain presents some decent climbing and descending, the relatively open space and lack of stop lights, compared to the majority of San Francisco city regions, allows for the accumulation of a bit of non-city-like mileage. Then come the variety of historical, artistic and geographic attractions of this national park, including the National Cemetery and the Legion of Honor, not to mention spectacular views.
The Thinker has me thinking...
It’s in the courtyard of the Legion of Honor that I discovered the presence of one of my favorite classic works of art, The Thinker. Overall, I’m happy to be learning of so many treasures within this wooded northwestern tip of the Peninsula, as no doubt I’ve only scratched the surface thus far.
Who says you can’t manage some decent cycling within San Francisco itself? The Presidio serves as further testimony that indeed you can, as long as you initially figure out some of the tricky routes and turns within the park itself. More awaits me on this front.
Suffice to say, such cycling seems to be working well for my body, if not my curious mind. I certainly recommend adding this area to your own path of exploration. A jaunt through the Presidio should certainly keep you, well… thinking!
Tags: San Francisco cycling, The Presidio, The Thinker
This is a first, I do believe. While it’s certainly NOT a first for the offspring of a high-profile Republican family to voice their own potentially divergent viewpoints, I mean to say this is the first time I think I’ve ever heard young Barbara Bush, daughter of W, speak out about anything at all. Her twin Jenna seems to have always been the more chatty one.
Nonetheless, Barbara has spoken, on the issue of marriage equality. I’m pleasantly surprised and of course very pleased of her standpoint and demonstration thereof. Follow my link to her short video clip, if you’ve not seen it already.
This, Barbara’s voice of support, serves as yet another example of an apparent generational shift in social attitude, one that transcends largely vacuous partisan labels. It’s safe to say we’ll be seeing more of this in months and years ahead. Thank you, Barbara!
Tags: Barbara Bush, marriage equality
As the saying goes, the third time’s a charm! In this case, it’s quite an attractive and muscular charm to boot.
The first generation was just that, the first attempt, albeit a respectable one with spacious room for maturation. The second generation earned its place of uniqueness, at least when looked upon from its distinctive nose. And now, the third generation is eminently upon us, otherwise known as the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK class.
Even hotter from the front!
Just as the BMW Z4 has grown up and filled out with each rebirth, so too, and better so may I say, has the SLK. This new two-seater, retractable-hard-top roadster is simply stunning, taking some obvious styling cues, both inside and out, from its famous and stately uncle, the SLS.
No doubt the third generation SLK will see instant success when it comes to the U.S. this summer. Overall, I’m impressed by such significant improvement in much of, though not all, MBZ styling in the past couple years. Perhaps the elimination of Chrysler influence has something to do with it.
In any case, I look forward to spotting the all-new 2012 SLK out on the road, while of course checking it out up close for myself. Round three will start before we know it!
And that’s my auto-styling opinion.
Tags: 2012 MBZ SLK, Mercedes-Benz styling, third generation SLK
Wow. It’s “auto overload” in the best of ways. Today I stumbled across a website on which I could easily spend an entire evening. If you too are not merely an auto enthusiast, but a true and dedicated admirer of all things Mercedes-Benz, then you too best visit this very fascinating and educational online destination.
Among numerous categories to explore, I highly recommend the virtual tour of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, Germany, in case you aren’t nearby to see it in person. While I knew the Pullman 600 remained in production until 1980, and that the 300 SD was the world’s first turbodiesel production car, I was unaware that Princess Diana drove her own 500 SL for several months in 1992. Suffice to say, a vast amount of MBZ history is elegantly showcased online, and the ultimate compilation is nothing short of extraordinary.
Speaking of history, this happens to be the 125th anniversary of German engineer Carl Benz’ unveiling of his “vehicle powered by gas engine.” As such, 2011 is a year of celebration for Daimler AG, with the remembrance just this past weekend of one hugely pivotal historical event. Check out this other very special site as well, connected to the first, to get 125 years of automotive history in 95 seconds, among all else! After all, Carl Benz is regarded as the inventor of not just what became Mercedes-Benz, but of the gasoline-powered automobile all around.
Happy 125th birthday, Automobile! And to think, I remember when you were a mere 100.
Tags: 125th auto anniversary, Carl Benz, Mercedes-Benz history
Of the numerous indelible moments in relatively recent history, that which occurred 25 years ago today is of distinct recollection to me. In the middle of my 6th grade math class, we were interrupted by our headmaster with news that the Space Shuttle Challenger had just exploded.
A quarter century seems to be a strong marking point of remembrance for most any major world tragedy. The Challenger is certainly worth remembering today, for both the immediate human and the long-term scientific losses that were irrevocably suffered.
No doubt you have your personal memories of the day as well, if you’re at least 30 I suppose. Suffice to say, in simplest terms: January 28, 1986 shook the nation and the world, and space travel, sadly enough, never got back on the same track.
25 years later, the day is remembered, for so many reasons.
Tags: Space Shuttle Challenger
I could not have written it better myself! Well now, really I could have, only I would have cited a slightly different list of examples throughout my prose.
You certainly get the point of this timely article in The Onion, I trust, as it shines brightly through the generous supply of dry humor and cynicism that makes for a fantastic satirical “news” article. In any case, this has to be the most “unique” of all the varied assessments I’ve read of President Obama’s SOTU speech this week.
Isn’t satire a wonderful thing? There’s always some truth between the lines, which makes it all the funnier.
And that’s my opinion, of course.
Tags: SOTU speech, The Onion
My knowledge of the many challenging cycling routes of the Peninsula continues to expand. Considering that Alto Velo seems rather lax in posting their ride routes ahead of time, the Saturday morning “B” ride definitely hands me a surprise as far as where we’re headed for the day.
Last weekend’s particular climb out of Cupertino was a first for me. Stevens Canyon Road, Mt. Eden Road, Hwy 9 all the way up to Skyline Blvd: Altogether this was a hell of a lot of uphill pedaling, but of course I survived it well intact! I won’t complain, as this kind of extended physical exertion is exactly what I need these days. In fact, this route is worth a repeat performance, if not several!
Talk about a cycling workout!
Needless to say, I’m happy to have been introduced to another great cycling climb in the Bay Area, especially on a day of such ideal weather conditions. Perhaps you’ll join me next time. As far as getting dropped by the main group, well… we’ll just let that go, for now.
Tags: Alto Velo B Ride, Peninsula cycling
My “trip” to the Folsom neighborhood restaurant Triptych might be worth a mention.
I could tell you about the open, airy seating space surrounded by tall walls of attractive artwork, almost as if you were dining in a small, intimate gallery. If I were to address the inviting wine and beer bar that offers a very unique selection of imported drafts, I’d say you could comfortably sip your selection while appreciating a peaceful atmosphere quite conducive to pleasant table conversation.
Then, I could go on eliminate the bland, undercooked crabcake sandwich from my menu recommendations, while yawning at the rather pedestrian breaded pork loin. I’d suggest instead you consider the hearty lamb chops with well-cooked bok choy, if not the heaping bowl of eye-turning paella.
But who am I to say, after all? I’d just be writing up yet another restaurant review, and you’d simply be getting my own opinion, again. Perhaps I should let you take your own dining trip to Triptych, where you can sip, taste and decide for yourself.
(I’m waiting.)
Oh, too late. Maybe next time.
And that’s… what it always is. 🙂
Tags: SF dining, SF restaurant review, Triptych
My first dining visit to Starbelly came last night, after having heard about the popular Castro eating establishment more than once in recent weeks. So of course this means a review is in order.
To get the major minuses out of the away: The tables are quite small, and the seating not too comfortable. If you don’t mind parking yourself on a wooden bench or metal chair, while inadvertently eavesdropping on the conversation next to (and very close to) you, then keep reading.
The food itself: Interesting, adventurous and mostly satisfying. The chicken liver pate, with onion marmalade and grain mustard accompanied by toasted sourdough: Absolutely divine, easily earning its place as my favorite of the night. The mussel dish: Tasty as mussels go, though paired rather oddly with mexican chorizo, creating a flavor competition I would not have expected. The spaghetti: Ambitious, as surprisingly thick noodles lead a welcome scattering of sliced jalapenos, mixed with slices of thick bacon that seemed to excite my dining companion more than they did me. The squash, goat cheese and black garlic pizza: A clear winner, proving its strength through a refreshing combination of flavors that for some odd reason yielded me a slight taste of Hawaii. All of this, washed down with a soothing Malbec, made for a unique, though not unparalleled, culinary experience.
Starbelly, despite heightened audibility, limited limb-waving space and unforgiving landings for your rear, is certainly worth a repeat visit. After all, the thick rare burgers on the table next to me were loudly calling!
Taste it all for yourself, if you haven’t already. Your belly, like mine, will be full. The rest is not too much to stomach.
And that’s my (palate’s hunger-driven) opinion.
Tags: chicken liver pate, mussels, SF restaurant review, Starbelly
Apparently the phrase has been around a while, while I’ve just now taken notice. Fortunately, an internet search indicates I’m not alone in finding the words downright laughable. There they were on an overhead monitor as I was making my way through the TSA checkpoint at Dulles this week: “Thank you for participating in security.”
Really? For what exactly are we being thanked? It seems akin to telling a Vietnam Veteran: Thank you for participating in the draft!
And that’s… (you got it.)
Tags: airport security, silly thank yous, TSA
For a brief moment, I got excited. Then upon closer inspection, I was underwhelmed. Of course this is simply my first, instantaneous reaction based solely on outward appearance. There could be a lot more going on that I do not yet see.
No, I’m not talking about a date or meeting someone new, though I suppose it could sound this way. The matter at hand is the 2012 Audi A6, introduced to the U.S. last week at the Detroit Auto Show.
More and more cars look alike these days; styling has grown rather clone-like and uninspiring over the past decade especially. When a popular manufacturer such as Audi unveils an “all-new” model, I do get excited to see something, well… new! So in this case of the “new” A6, the headlights have been granted new shape. Ok, fine. Is this all? Sure, the back end is different, and I will say better, than the outgoing A6. Still, it looks just like the current A4, and not too far off from the recent “redux” of the A8. All in all, and again, merely upon initial impression, I’m looking not at something “new,” but rather at a slightly tweaked punch of the same old cookie cutter.
Perhaps Audi could learn a lesson from Jaguar. Now THERE is new!
And yep… that’s my opinion.
Tags: Audi A6, car styling
All of my bar and restaurant reviews here thus far have been of establishments in the Bay Area, until now.
I highly recommend that the next time you’re in our nation’s capitol, you head on over for a few rounds, a hearty meal, and then of course a few more rounds at Kelly’s Irish Times. As Irish Pubs are my favorite casual social drinking and eating environment, it’s pleasing to find a spot of such robust merriment and revelry nestled within a neighborhood of otherwise buttoned-up and typically quiet Capitol Hill culture.
The pieces of history on the walls, to which I’m attracted in any city, are unprecedented at Kelly’s. In fact, the description is already written for me on their website:
“Known the world over, not only for being one of the most celebrated Irish Pub’s in America, but for Kelly’s famous wall. With over 100+ years of history gracing this facade, you see details such as 1930’s Dublin Police Patches; one-of-a-kind unopened beer bottles from the 1800s; antique galvanized ice buckets from Glascow; torn Redskins Superbowl tickets, Sonny Jurgensen autographs and a multitude of celebrity/politician what-nots.”
This, combined with live music, generous drinks and a mean fish sandwich, should more than make your evening. Just steps from Union Station, you’ll easily get there from just about any part of town via Metro. It’s just around the corner from the Capitol Hill Hyatt, if you happen to be staying there as I was.
If you love Irish Pubs like I do, you’ll be glad you paid the Irish on Capitol Hill a visit. I certainly am!
And that’s my opinion.
My return visits to our nation’s capitol are always fantastic, and this past weekend has been perhaps my most enjoyable trip yet. Having reunited with so many wonderful friends and acquaintances over the past four days, I return to San Francisco tonight on a pleasant and peaceful emotional high, feeling honored to have spent this special time among such a friendly, engaging and all-around high-quality group of men (and a few women, too!). Through friendships old and new, lasting memories were made. For all of them I’m most thankful.
My busy week back in the real world awaits, starting first thing tomorrow morning. This holiday Monday, as I enjoy my final hours in the city in which I lived 14 years ago, comes as a welcome day of transition. “See” you back on the Left Coast!
There seems to be a lot of ’80s TV remake buzz going around these days. As an addendum to my entry of January 5, here now is what appears to be the latest on the resurrection of J.R. Ewing.
Meanwhile, a friend just alerted me to this possible revival as well. All I can say is… I’ll believe it when I see it! Unfortunately, unlike Larry Hagman who’s very much alive, John Forsythe died last year at age 92. As such, I’m initially unconvinced as to how successful any Carrington-themed movie might be.
In any case, I still prefer the originals to the remakes, especially where an inauthentic replacement cast is concerned. We’ll just see if any of this really comes to fruition.
And that’s my opinion.
Tags: Carringtons, Dynasty, Larry Hagman, remakes
Ryan R. Sanderson 