Tuesday, January 19, 2010

More Fancy Food


Waiting for my flight home from San Francisco. First one was cancelled. Hoping to make it back to So Cal by tonight. It's been a productive trip - saw some great things, ate some fabulous food, and drank way too many Irish Coffees. Godiva's Gems Party was a chocolate indulgence. The specialties of the evening included several colorful martini's, all named after gem stones, except for the Chocolotini, of course. A colorful character decked out in turquoise feathers and sparkly gowns helped create an even more exotic ambiance.

The show at Moscone had a new organic section with all things green and organic. Sea salt is still hot, and a central ingredients in all things both sweet and savory. Healthy options were also offered in chocolate bars, granola mixes, yogurt and energy drinks.

One of the best of the healthy options is the new PopChips - a crispy snack that tastes a lot like potato chips, but way less fat. The PopChips team handed out free samples in front of the convention center using Segways to move quickly up and down the streets of San Fran.

Here's a picture of one of my co-workers, posing for a pic with Lady Romeo - at least that's what the name tag said!!!

Saturday, January 16, 2010

Fancy Food Show 2010 - Out the Door for Lunch


Just arrived in San Francisco for the Fancy Food Show. This is my 10th show, and truly one of my favorite trade shows - not only because it's in San Fran (a fabulous food town), but also because I get to see everything that's new and delicious in the world of food. Arrived at the hotel, checked in and headed out for a little shopping. Nordstrom's at the Westfield Shopping Center holds fond memories for me, including a romantic trip with my honey who took me shopping and picked out beautiful outfits to try on. Best part of that trip was watching him carry a Christmas gift for our daughter, a life sized Barbie Doll, under his arm while we shopped!

After a couple of hours - I needed refreshment, so headed down to "Out the Door," one of Slanted Door's satellite restaurants. Gleaming glass tiles, bamboo and brushed stainless steel tables make the decor eco chic but friendly. Ordered a bowl of Beef and Noodle Soup and a crisp Pilsner (I was parched from all that shopping).

A steaming white bowl was set in front of me, the beef had just been added to the rich broth and was still pink when it arrived. I added some beautiful bean sprouts which still had little green leaves at the top, not like the sprouts at the grocery store! I also added a couple of Thai Basil leaves, a squeeze of lime and some sliced jalapenos and dug in. The broth was silky and delicious, with small ribbons of caramelized shallots floating on the surface. The beef was tender and the wide noodles delicate and delicious. A perfect midday feast, not too filling and so very satisfying.

Back at the hotel room to change before heading out again. Tonight, I will be joining the festivities at the big Godiva party at Vessels restaurant. They are introducing their new line of chocolates, Godiva Gems, and should have plenty of samples on hand. Good thing I ate a light lunch!