(aka a good excuse to go to San Francisco for a few days)
I’m proud to say that two of our cheeses, Meridian and MontVivant were recognized along with 11 other cheesemakers by the Good Food Awards, presented this past Friday. Artisan producers of cheese, charcuterie, pickles, beer, preserves, coffee and chocolate from across the country proudly featured their sustainably crafted foods for the over 200 attendees that night.
Held in the Ferry Terminal Building and with speakers and presenters including Alice Waters and Ruth Reichl, it was a real kick. We sampled the delicious winning entries, chatted about the highs and lows of artisan foods. Two great takeaways—Avalanche goat cheese, Wendy Mitchell (www.avalanchecheese.com) makes several delicious varieties—try it if you can find it! Sea salt chocolate caramels from Gilt Taste (www.gilttaste.com) liddabit sweets sea salt caramels—in our goodie bag and I consumed them in minutes!
Back in SF, I was reminded of what a great food culture it is out here. Legends and newcomers, the climate, both physical and attitudinal, all embrace fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. Proudly featuring them, the trendy Mission District’s latest restaurants did not disappoint. Heirloom and Slow Club were on our list along with Mission Cheese (ww.missioncheese.net), where cheesemongers Liz & Eric shared some great choices with us. And no food expedition would be complete without some inventive ice cream flavors at BiRite Creamery (www.biritecreamery.com).
One of the highlights of the Ferry Building is undoubtedly Cowgirl Creamery. With lines overflowing into the hallway, customers get to sample the most amazing cheeses. A new addition is Sidekick, Cowgirl’s stall next door where you can feast on cheese-based dishes. I loved seeing Sue and Peg at their Saturday night cheese reception.
Thank goodness for the fitness culture—pairs well (necessarily) with the food one! We walked the marina to the Golden Gate Bridge, hiked the Marin Headlands and generally strolled the city as we are known to do before returning home.
Pumped by our recognition, I can hardly wait for the 2012 season and being back in production. Today Meridian . . . tomorrow something even better?
-Lisa
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