Bi-Rite Creamery

Bi-Rite Creamery creates ice cream magic by using local ingredients and compostable containers and by keeping things fresh. At first I thought that their flavors weren't as strong or memorable as some of my other favorite places. But since they opened in 2007 their methods and quality have continued to improve. More subtly, I've noticed that because of the high quality of ingredients, I'm never left feeling bloated, uncomfortable or overindulged, even after eating a sundae (which I recommend!).

Some of the fantastic array of offerings here are the go-to ice cream flavors like vanilla and chocolate but also unique, handmade and delectable toppings, sauces and flavor combinations. For the adventurous, there is an olive oil and sea salt sundae, which is actually very good and tastes of lemon. Ice cream flavors like honey lavender, malted vanilla and indian-spiced chocolate chunk sometimes appear in the case, and tastes requests are always welcomed. Ice cream sandwiches, ice cream cakes and popsicles are also available (though I have yet to try any of them). For those cold San Francisco days, cookies, brownies and minicakes are available as well as hot chocolate.

Must haves:

•Salted Caramel Ice Cream
•Peanut Butter Ice Cream
•Recchiuti Chocolate Sea Salt Sprinkles
•Caramel Sauce
•Berry Compote


Full List of My Favorites

Citizen Cake

Citizen Cake is a fantastic place for any kind of food lover. Full of daring, sweetness and honesty, I first came upon Citizen Cake about 10 years ago when owner and Executive Chef Elizabeth Falkner was just getting started in the original location, on 14th street just behind Rainbow Grocery. Her delectable little treats roped me in, and once she moved to the current location at Grove and Gough things really took off, incorporating a full restaurant and dining services to the original cafe/bakery idea.

Tastes at Citizen Cake bring traditional flavors together in new ways, melding creativity, eccentricity and risk into a refined, expert and classy presentation. My all time favorite dessert was a blueberry-corn parfait, which incorporated mint gelee, fresh blueberries, corn chips, popcorn and cream into an unlikely but showstopping exploration of texture and flavor. Recently at dinner I had a traditional appetizer of dates, celery and parmesan, presented with each ingredient taking the other's traditional form. Tastes and textures again made this amazing. My mantra when ordering here is the bigger risk you take, the better the reward.

Things you shouldn't miss:

• Specialty Cocktails


• Donut Balls at the Weekend Brunch


• Mocha with Handmade Marshmallow


• Make Your Own Ice Cream Sandwich (from the fresh cookies and ice creams available)


• Lemon Creme Filled Cookies


• Pot de Creme


• Creme Brulee Tarts


• Gelees


• Toffee

Full List of My Favorites