Basil Canteen Review - 1489 Folsom St SF CA

Basil Canteen - is getting the thai street food formula right in a phenom space within the nightclub corridor of Soma, SF.   The restaurant and lounge sits in a big windowed NYC-esque room:  a former brewery with tons of exposed brick as well as architectural iron work, smack on the fascinating corner of Folsom and 11th Street. For a large, open room you can actually hear yourself talk, and the music (nice downtempo stuff) and the tone of others talking.  Its a pleasant audio mix, which is a surprising in a "loft" space.   Its a great place to drink, snack, catch up with people or just people watch.   The staff is usually friendly and attentive and food itself is vibrant, flavorful and well, decadent.  

One of my favorite apps is captured (poorly) below: The Roti is so crispy and sweetly crunchy - I've never had better Roti - but its boardering on pastry-like.  You know what?  I'm ok with that.  Its melt and crunch in your mouth delicious, especially when complimentd by the sweet and spicy green curry replete w tender tiny bits of eggplant and topped with a big basil leaf.  Those white dots that look like marshmallows in picture below, are the eggplant pieces (left - square bowl).   Its amazing curry.  In the middle of the plate below are bits of bbq'd steak, with a nice marinade I might add.  I didnt ask them what it was, but the beef was lean/tender yet really almost herby taste bc of the spicing. The beef looked like the sad third wheel on this plate though, ha.  Wow, is that the best vegetarian appetizer ever?  Meaning it would be if you took out the sad beef.  Or go the other way, and add big pieces of rib-eye with a wee bit bigger bowl of thai green chili to have a heartier meal.  I would order that every time.  

Here is what I had tonight.

Two Snacks:
1) Daily Special ~ Fried pork and crab meatball


2) Kang kiow wan roti
(shown to the left - this stuff is heavently, my poor cell phone pix dont do it any justice.  


1 Rice plate
Kao mok gai
‘all natural’ chicken braised in rice with tumeric and spices


The chicken has not as good as past but the sauce was amazing - a mint and vinegar or something.  Hand to identify ingredients,  and I would have drank it like a small freshly squeezed orange juice if given the chance.  


Canteen is a great place to share dishes and most are substantial enough  that four people can eat and have a sizable portion.  Mostly everything is good on the menu, and clearly I recommend the curry.  The noodles are all great: I think the kee mao talay dish which features manila clams is an awesome seafood noodle execution.  I'll include the pic from their website to show the manila clam kee mao.  The balance of veggies, starch and protein is wonderful and unusual a bit too.  Its surprising in a good way.  It you like seafood, pasta or green leafy vegetables you could eat this and love it.  Even if you never had thai food before in your life.    

The Fried Rice is ok, I wish it had more flavor actually.  But the pickled jalapeños on the table are a fine addition to the rice to give it spice. One of the first dishes I tried, and one I love the concept on is this: 


kao moo daeng
crispy house-cured pork belly, roast pork, and egg served with star anise gravy


The roast pork is colored outside with what looks like red #5 - just like chinese char siu.  It reminds me of my childhood favorite foods re-interpreted.  The two types of pork plus sauce and egg (plus rice) is just brilliant.  Its off the savory richter scale, but its a small portion and worth the experience.  I guess I'll have to go again and take better pics this time of this unique dish.  Hopefully this review moves people to go to this great resto, please do - I want it to stay open and thrive!  Check out the big communal table that is in the front.  Also in my pic at the top of post and many on their website.  If you click on the header to the post it should take you to the Basil Canteen website, if not just "google" it.  


Non-traditional but still delicious thai food in a very contemporary yet comfortable setting.  
Check it out, its worth the trip.


Basil Canteen gets 4 "Musubis" ("stars" out of 5)

What is Kau Kau

Kau Kau is Hawaiian for "Food" or as we say in the islands "to grind."

So Kau Kau Hotel is this Hawaiian expats' take on not just food, but places, sometimes people, things or thoughts but really, mostly good stuff to eat.

Hawaii has a vibrant food culture and I recently learned of an old resto in Honolulu, the Kau Kau Corner.

Actually, it was spelled Kau Kau Korner.  I am not a fan of forced alliteration.  At All.

However, I am a student of history.  The picture on this blog is of Kau Kau Corner in the 1940s.

It apparently had a sign that was well know and some what of a Mecca.  The crossroads of the Pacific.  You can see in the pic to the right, a Diamond Head total unobstructed by Hotels and Condos, a small bump on the horizon on the bottom right section of the photo.

If anyone knows more about this historic venue, which has since been taken over by the Hard Rock - Waikiki.  Leave a comment - I want to know more.

Food with a View

For being a "City by the Bay" I've always been surprised at the paucity waterfront eating and drinking establishments in San Francisco.

The Chronicle Resto Critic, Michael Bauer, just published his six best bets for outdoor dining.  Most are high end, there are a few places just out of town.  If we are going past the bay proper I'd throw in Sierra Mar @ the Post Ranch Inn to that list.  If we are going real low-bro I'd go with grabbing In-N-Out Burger + a Tall Boy and watching the planes fly into SFO near the bay.  However - my vote on this debate is unequivocally, The Ramp.

What's your favorite place to eat, drink and smell the seagulls?

Please leave a comment, Oyster places highly valued!

If you are bored, feel free to vote on your favorite waterfront watering holes (including your own) by clicking here.

Will be putting up pics of Ramp and Sierra Mar soon.

Local Eats: Sushi Bistro 24th Street, The Mission

Some weeknight pre-Labor Day we visited Sushi Bistro.  Its facade is non-descript from the front, the darkness inside is visible outside.  The service was prompt and friendly from the start and we got a nice dark table in the corner.  Pretty good contrast to 24th streets plethora of florescent and neon lighting.  A slight problem for the pictures - my apologies in advance.  Its a big menu, sushi-specialty rolls, apps, fishy entrees, salads, sashimi, I may have even seen some soup / udon bowls.  I have to say I was relatively thrilled lots of the menu had a hawaiian theme (waikiki, aloha, big island etc).  Overall, it was solid.  Not exceptional but in no way bad.  It strikes me as a neighborhood place where you find a few favorites and stick to the script when you return - only trying one new thing per visit.  Its a resto that def needs another try so consider this a prequel to the true review. 

What is nice is that they start you out with a lil bowl of pickled thin sliced cukes.  We paired that with some  pints of Sapporo and started the meal added and abetted by the diversified reggae soundtrack that easily could have been ripped from my own ipod.  We're off to a great start.

The Poke - Fresh but not delicious.  Sexy scallops Top Left - not that spicy or sexy.
Aloha 101 Top Right, "garlic" sauce in the middle.  On the right track but misses the mark.

We ordered:
ALOHA 101 9.95                                            

AHI TUNA, MANGO & CUCUMBER WRAPPED IN SEAWEED, FLASH- FRIED, SERVED WITH SPICY GARLIC SAUCE

SEXY SCALLOP 11.75

SPICY WHITE TUNA, SALMON, AVOCADO AND TOPPED WITH SPICY CHOPPED 


SCALLOP, TOBIKO AND SCALLIONS.

AHI TUNA POKE SPECIAL 13.5

CUBES OF FRESH AHI TUNA MARINATED IN SPICY SAUCE, SERVED WITH ORGANIC


 BABY GREENS

We also got the Agedashi Tofu.  Its was technically ordered as an appetizer but it came as the last course in the meal.  As I mentioned it was good, but it wasn't outstanding in any particular fashion.  The poke was fresh but missing the sesame oil to make it as rich and delicious as it can and should be.  Perhaps I dont like raw scallops as much as I thought, but the sexy scallop was sort of too soft and non-descript.  I really liked the idea of the Aloha 101 with Ahi and Mango but the sauce was not as garlicky as expected, for something called "Spicy Garlic Sauce."  Hey, I ate it, all but the last sexy scallop, however I've had fresher, funner and fruiter sushi elsewhere.    Sushi Bistro, thanks for moving to the 24th Street corridor.  I truly appreciate your presence.  But the truth is I would travel to eat here if I didnt live in the hood.   Despite the cutesy hawaii names that I want to love.


I'll be back, no doubt. But if you are searching for sushi in the Mission AND have read this far - well, I'm sorry you must be really lost and bored by now.  Maybe try Blowfish?  [Disclaimer -I've yet to try Blowfish myself but I've had food from former Blowfish chefs and loved it - if that counts]


On a Kau Kau Hotel rating scale this place gets 2.5 mangoes.

Tech Bits: "net neutrality" explained via Gawker

The National Cable and Telecommunications Assn. and its ilk think that providers should reserve the right to pick-and-choose which sites get preferential treatment on their bandwidth. More than that, they're toying with the idea of increasing rates for video sites, meaning those of you who watch movies or television on your computer could pay more than people who use it simply for news and the such. According to the association, this is simply how the market works. And does it ever!

A good read on net neutrality continues here

The Bacon and Maple Latte

Its Monday: That means its time for some serious coffee. This pirate radio & cafe spot is close to my house. I'll try this concoction soon and report back. Until then, enjoy this virtual cup care of Tony B.

A Sweet new Burger Spot in da Mish

 

BIG KAHUNA

Urbun* Burger has just opened on Valenica.  After my first meal - I'm ready to get back there and try the rest of the menu.  This visit, I wanted to try the Breakfast Burger (Patty, Fried Egg, Applewood Smoked bacon and Fries) but I went "healthy" for the Big Kahuna.  Since I grew up in Hawaii I've had my share of great teriyaki burgers.  Most of them because of "ono" teri sauce, not necessarily a good meat patty.  This one was solid all around, nice meat - medium size - not a griddle slim patty like I-N-O and not a 1/2 pound of meat found at most "Ruby Tuesdays" esque places.  I liked that the meat fit inside the bun - didnt come bursting out of the sides.  That is important for a burger with sauce - so that the liquid (in this case extra good teri sauce) is retained.  Well grilled and sweet pineapples and if I recall a slice of tasty swiss.  Comes with a giant salad or fries - I mean these are Flintstones sized plates.  The burger was on the pricier side but its pretty easily shared with two, both people would be happy.  I mean, I'm not going to share but you could.  I shall return when they bring in the beer possibly next week.  Here's to hoping they have some variety (KONA BREWING) and value (TECATE).

Its a sit, order at the counter and wait for your food place.  Great before or after going out but not so much to linger.  I will say, they did a nice job in a small room and I particularly like the great variety of sauces available displayed pop-art style on the condiment counter.  

*Update 9/1/09:  

"Urbun" is correction.  Originally named "Urban Burger" due to trademarks the new biz had to change its name.  For the record, I have not been back to this place yet but I need to remark in pleasant retrospect that it was a juicy burger in addition to a meaty and a messy one.  I also liked the (standard) bun more than expected but since they have had to change the name to "urbun," it might be cool to offer an even variety of breads.   Currently it stands at classic bun, 9-grain bun or texas toast.  I vote for sweet roll (Portuguese), sour dough bun, and some jalapeno bread or chipotle challah - some 'spicy and unique' selection would be fitting @ Da UnBun, er Urbun.  

Neighborhood: Mission
581 Valencia St
(between 16th St & 17th St)
San Francisco, CA 94110

(415) 551-2483

urbunburgersf.com

http://www.yelp.com/biz/urbun-burger-san-francisco

SOMA Sandwich Land: Turkey Cran

There is nothing more simple and delicious than a roasted turkey sandwich.  It's a classic.  I like mine with extra red onions, extra mayo on an extra crunchy or toasted roll.  The secret ingredient is always cranberry jelly.  Extra on that too, please my Sandwich Samuri of San Francisco.  Looks like I may have had some hot peppers added to this edition as well.

While I lived in SOMA, there was little in the way of healthy food nearby but there was Ted's Market.  Thank God for Ted's.  If its a weekend and you need sandwiches for a picnic or trip to the beach or park - drive to Ted's.  Thank me later.

For more Ted's news and Reviews surf over to Yelp.  Seems like the key-take away is to go early during the week.  Weekends are much more manageable.
http://www.yelp.com/biz/teds-market-san-francisco

Chiang Mai Thai - Honolulu, Hawaii

http://www.locokinegrindz.com/2009/chiang-mai/
Recently reviewed on Loco Kine Grindz blog - this was my favorite Thai place in Honolulu.  A review I wish I had written myself.  Enjoy.



I’ve heard the name “Chiang Mai” several times over the past few months, but have never made the time to check it out. It just so happened yesterday that I decided on a whim to give this place a try. It turned out to be a pretty good choice!

Located right across the street from Longs Drugs McCully on King Street, Chiang Mai has always been a sign easily visible from the road. Normally lit in green and and red colors, the sign sits over a seemingly plain restaurant. But as I found out today, Chiang Mai was yet another restaurant that could not be judged by its cover.






Inside Chiang Mai

The interior of Chiang Mai is very beautiful. The walls are decorated with various paintings and the pillars within the restaurant feature intricate carvings and trimmings. Each table is clad in white cloth, complimented by a small vase filled will purple flowers. I will admit that this type of environment is not what I had expected just before walking in!

As we had decided to dine at the restaurant pretty close to the end of their lunch hours, there were very few people inside. We were seated promptly by one of the servers and browsed over the menu. Chiang Mai’s menu offers a variety of appetizers, curries, and sautéed dishes. The last page of the menu is dedicated to vegetarian dishes for healthier alternatives.

The hardest part about dining at Chiang Mai was deciding what to order! There are quite a few menu items to choose from, and everything is described so deliciously that you want to order it all!






Chiang Mai Wings

One of the popular dishes as indicated by the menu, we elected to try the Chiang Mai Wings as an appetizer. The Chiang Mai Wings features golden fried, boneless chicken wings stuffed with mushrooms, carrots, long rice, chicken and spices. Each order comes with four wings and a side of sweet and sour sauce.

From first bite to last these wings were delicious! The crispy golden crust of the chicken presents a wonderful crunchiness, and the contents within are piping hot. The flavors of the ingredients stuffed inside the chicken are delicious by themselves, but when combined with the fried outer chicken wing and the sweet/sour sauce, this appetizer becomes a true winner. I’d definitely recommend this dish to anyone who might dine at Chiang Mai.






Thai Garlic Shrimp

The Thai Garlic Shrimp is a simple dish featuring shrimp and mushrooms sautéed in a heavy mixture of garlic. The shrimp was a tad overcooked, but nothing serious. The mushrooms provided an interesting contrast in taste to the shrimp, but ultimately paired well with the garlic. If you are a fan of garlic, this is a dish you might enjoy.






Evil Beef

The “evil” name of this dish likely stems from the hot color and taste that it affords the customer. Available in chicken or beef, this dish features the meat of your choice and basil fried together and mixed with a red Thai curry. You can order the dish on any one of three levels of spiciness. Being a great lover of spicy food I of course opted for the spiciest version, and boy was it hot!

The beef was tender and juicy, mixed with just enough basil to give it a fresh herb taste. The red curry was very spicy, packing that “punch” that spice lovers love! After a while of picking at the beef you might start breaking out small beads of sweat! This was a very delicious dish and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Final thoughts: Chiang Mai certainly did a great job of living up to the buzz I have been hearing about it recently. The service is fast and friendly, and the food is great. Overall I’d say that Chiang Mai is one of the better Thai restaurants that I have had the pleasure of eating at over the last few years. It is obvious that taste and freshness of ingredients are two key focuses of the chefs at Chiang Mai, combined to create dining experience. I wholeheartedly recommend Chiang Mai if you have a hankering for some good Thai food.

Chiang Mai

2239 S. King St.

Phone: 808.941.1151

Lunch from 11 a.m.-2 p.m (weekdays)

Dinner from 5:30-10 p.m Daily

The Bloody Pilgrim

Sloe Gin, a gin liqueur with a curious creation process. I've had it in mixed drinks but I'm on a mission to find either an artisanal maker or a Plymouth Gin "authentic" import. I'm going to need you for this years Thanksgiving Cocktail of choice: The Bloody Pilgrim. This is also called the "Gin and Cranberry" by the clearly uninspired bartenders of Plymouth Gin's posse.

Here is the recipe. Direct Link is here.

Gin + Cranberry Sauce

Detail

Method:
Shake all ingredients with ice and fine strain into glass.
Origin: Created by Wayne Collins for Maxxium UK
Glass Type: Martini / Cocktail
Garnish: ; Red currants
Created By: Wayne Collins
Submitted By Plymout Gin 

1 teaspoon	Cranberry jelly
1 shot(s)	PLYMOUTH - Sloe
2 shot(s)	PLYMOUTH - Dry
1 shot(s)	Squeezed golden grapefruit juice
1 Wedge	Squeezed lime
1 Wedge	Squeezed Clementine

Now that you are thirsty but probably far from a liquor store carrying authentic sloe gin. Please keep reading about this apropos Thanksgiving drink.

Sloe Gin is back - via the NY Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/15/fashion/15shake.html

Sloe Gin via Wikipedia

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sloe_gin