Best Friend Reunion

My bestest best friend flew in town for the weekend, and that meant organizing an incredible itinerary/food tour for our reunion. (Many of these photos were taken by my BFF, Alvin.)

First stop, The Cheesecake Factory
This was Alvin's first request. A nice taste of San Francisco with by sitting outside on the balcony of the Union Square Macy's building. It was a true SF summer -- cold and windy!

Cup of Clam Chowder
This "cup" was more like a bowl. Definitely a hearty start. It's a mediocre clam chowder, but I got it in hopes of warming up.

Thai Lettuce Wraps
When I want something fresh and light, I usually order this. It's a safe choice. Nicely grilled chicken with tasty sauces. Peanut sauce, Cilantro and Lime sauce, and Tamarind sauce.

Stuffed Tortillas
Alvin fulfilled his Tex-Mex craving with this plate.

Pineapple Upside Down Cheesecake
Pineapple Upside Down cake with cheesecake in the middle. Delicious!


Bistro Jeanty, Yountville
Michelin-rated French Bistro. This was the perfect place to have lunch at during the hot Fourth of July day. We were seated outside in the patio. The service is relaxed and attentive.
The Front Entrance

The Bar

Specials du Jour

Glass of Pinot Blanc

Delicious Fresh Baguette

Warm Leek Tart

Their Famous Tomato Soup
Sundried and roasted tomato soup. Light and creamy! Topped with a buttery puff pastry.

Moules!
I love getting mussels whenever its on the menu. The broth was a fantastic blend of red wine, garlic, shallots, and parsley.

Coq au Vin
Stewed to perfection. The roasting flavor seeped through to the meat and to the bones.


Bouchon Bakery, Yountville
The bakery of Chef Thomas Keller. Next door is his Bouchon Bistro, another excellent French bistro. Must-gets include their macaroons and their bouchons.




Peju Province Winery, Napa Valley
One of my favorite wineries in Napa Valley. Beautiful landscaping which compliments the architecture. The wines are all fantastic, and the staff is always so friendly.


Being that this is one of my favorite wineries, I'm a wine club member. One of the perks is free wine tasting in the private tasting room.


The Barrels of Wines!

Public Tasting Room


Silverado Vineyards, Napa Valley
If you want to go to a winery with an amazing view, this is the vineyard to visit.



Between tastings, we were given the privilege to enjoy our wines outside to take in the sights of Napa Valley.


Mel's Drive-In
After the Fourth of July fireworks, my friends and I were looking for a late night meal. We went to Mel's by the Metreon.
Bowl of Chili and Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Banana Cream Pie
Nice fresh chunks of banana!


Lori's Diner
I didn't mention this earlier, but my best friend lives in Hong Kong. That means his visits here are filled with traditional American comfort foods. His last meal was breakfast at another American diner.


Strawberry Milkshake
This is ONE order.

Reuben Sandwich

Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwich


Overall, it was a most memorable weekend. Great food and best friends. Here's to the next 10 years, Alvin!