Culinary Tour of Showplace Square
Welcome to the delectable world of Showplace Square, a hidden gem in the heart of San Francisco. This vibrant area is not just a haven for art enthusiasts but also a paradise for food lovers. Let’s embark on a culinary tour filled with trivia and hidden facts about this intriguing neighborhood.
A Brief History
Showplace Square is nestled in the Potrero Hill district, an area originally known for its working-class roots and industrial past. Over time, it transformed into a bustling hub of creativity, especially for the arts and design community. This transformation also brought a wave of culinary innovation, making it a hotspot for food enthusiasts.
Culinary Highlights
The Morris
The Morris is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Known for its cozy ambiance and exceptional menu, The Morris stands out with its unique offerings like the duck liver mousse that has a cult following. Fun fact: The Morris also boasts an impressive whiskey collection, featuring rare bottles that are a treat for connoisseurs.
Tartine Manufactory
A visit to Showplace Square is incomplete without stopping by Tartine Manufactory. This bakery-café hybrid is famous for its artisanal bread and pastries. Interestingly, the founders, Chad Robertson and Elisabeth Prueitt, started with a small bakery and have now expanded into this large, airy space. Don’t miss their morning buns—legend has it that they often sell out within hours.
Serpentine
Located in a historic warehouse, Serpentine offers a farm-to-table dining experience. Their seasonal menu changes frequently, ensuring that you always get the freshest ingredients. Trivia time: The building that houses Serpentine was once a can factory, adding a touch of industrial chic to your dining experience.
Hidden Gems
Piccino
Piccino is a small but mighty Italian eatery known for its wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta. What’s fascinating is that the name "Piccino" means "tiny" in Italian, reflecting the restaurant’s humble beginnings. Despite its size, it has become a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. Their margherita pizza is a must-try!
Harmonic Brewing
Beer lovers, rejoice! Harmonic Brewing offers a range of craft beers brewed on-site. The brewery is located in a former industrial building, giving it a rustic charm. Fun fact: Their flagship beer, "Harmonic Kölsch," is inspired by traditional German brewing techniques but with a modern twist.
Sweet Treats
Mr. and Mrs. Miscellaneous
For those with a sweet tooth, Mr. and Mrs. Miscellaneous is the place to be. This charming ice cream shop offers unique flavors like "Ballpark" (peanut brittle and caramel) and "Chocolate Malted Crunch." Here’s a fun tidbit: The owners, Ian Flores and Annabelle Topacio, are both pastry chefs who met while working at top-tier restaurants.
Recchiuti Confections
Chocolate aficionados will find their haven at Recchiuti Confections. Known for their exquisite handmade chocolates, this shop offers flavors that are as beautiful as they are delicious. A little-known fact: Founder Michael Recchiuti started his career as a pastry chef before venturing into the world of chocolate.
Quick Bites
The American Grilled Cheese Kitchen
Sometimes, nothing beats the simple pleasure of a grilled cheese sandwich. The American Grilled Cheese Kitchen elevates this comfort food to an art form. Their "Mousetrap" is a crowd favorite, loaded with cheddar, havarti, and jack cheese. Fun fact: The founders, Heidi Gibson and Nate Pollak, are engineers-turned-chefs who turned their love for grilled cheese into a thriving business.
Dumpling Time
If you’re in the mood for something savory, Dumpling Time offers an array of delicious dumplings made fresh daily. From classic pork dumplings to innovative flavors like truffle and edamame, there’s something for everyone. Interesting tidbit: The restaurant’s open kitchen concept allows diners to watch the dumplings being made in real-time.
Coffee Stops
Sightglass Coffee
For a caffeine fix, head to Sightglass Coffee. This local roastery is known for its meticulous approach to coffee, from sourcing beans to the brewing process. Trivia: The name "Sightglass" refers to the window on a coffee roaster where you can watch the beans being roasted to perfection.
Farley’s
Farley’s is a cozy café that’s been serving the community since 1989. It’s a great spot to relax with a cup of coffee and a good book. Fun fact: Farley’s hosts a monthly "Coffee with a Cop" event, where locals can chat with police officers over a cup of joe.
Foodie Events
Showplace Square is also home to a variety of food-related events throughout the year. The SF Street Food Festival is a highlight, featuring a diverse array of food trucks and pop-up vendors. Another must-visit is the Renegade Craft Fair, where you can find artisanal foods alongside handmade crafts.
So there you have it—a lighthearted yet detailed culinary tour of Showplace Square. Now, go forth and eat well!