Something New

The riding part of yesterday wasn't really something new, but it was the first time in a while getting out on the time trial bike with the sole purpose of heading uphill, in position, in big gears. Nothing like spinning at about 55 RPM in the 55x17 going up Golden Gate Canyon. It was a wind assisted effort, but it felt better than it has in the past regardless. Coming down was not as much fun as usual because of an SUV towing a trailer taking the curves very, very gingerly.

Post ride, I met up with Melisa for happy hour and food at Bistro One, the new place on Broadway between Pasquini's and Divino. I was pleasantly surprised as I walked in knowing nothing besides what I could see through the window prior to the restaurant opening. Happy hour drinks were a reasonable $1 off well and draft with the best deal being $4 wine by the glass. Our bartender Charlie was friendly, quick to pour different things to try, and full of menu recommendations. We started off with the Black Mussels (white wine broth, mushroom sage french toast read the full description). The mushroom sage french toast was pure genius, why hadn't I thought of savory french toast? It made for some mighty fine dipping in the remaining broth.

We decided to stick around for dinner and try some of the other menu items. Melisa opted for the Basil Salmon (with crawfish risotto and Meyer Lemon broth) and I had the Bistro Fettuccine (with shrimp, tomato, basil, and fresh mozzarella). Many of the ingredients and menu items are made in house like the pasta, breads, ice creams, and they have a rooftop garden going where they grow tomatoes, herbs, greens and the like. My pasta was very good, my only suggestion to the kitchen was to treat the shrimp with a little more respect as they were a hair on the tough side. Melisa's salmon was done very nicely. The Meyer Lemon broth was light, but complemented the other flavors in the dish quite well.

Despite being full of food and beverage, we made room for dessert. Picking something to split proved to be difficult because everything sounded good. We ended up with the Cinnamon Sugar Fritters (with cream cheese ice cream and chocolate sauce). The fritters were good, but I'll be back to try the other desserts . . . blueberry cobbler is calling my name.

I was impressed for the most part. The restaurant is very new still but doesn't seem to have too many issues getting good food out of the kitchen. The space is really cool, modern, and comfortable without being cluttered. Another nice addition to the n-hood.