A Delectable San Francisco Inspired Menu

The Bentley Reserve (American Caviar, Boiled Eggs and Smoked Salmon Layered between Buckwheat Belini w/ Chive Crème Fraiche; menu by Chef Rebecca Alonzi, Seasonal Elegance

Over the weekend, Lisa and Michael celebrated their anniversary at their beautiful home overlooking San Francisco. The first time I met them was when I was a server at their rehearsal dinner four years ago! How time flies! I was very excited when Lisa asked me to help her throw an intimate anniversary party, which also came with the news that they were moving to the East Coast to be closer to family.

They wanted a menu where their guests wouldn't have to use utensils, so together we came up with a rolling cocktail hour (3 selections would come out every hour). I decided to get Chef Rebecca Alonzi, owner of Seasonal Elegance, on board. I mentioned our idea about doing a "tour" of San Francisco using food. Becca loved the idea and ran with it. 

Below is the inventive menu she created for this special event -- I hope it inspires you and I would highly recommend Becca to bring it to life if you're planning on a San Francisco destination wedding. The food was superb!

By the way, entertainment was provided by my very own Guitar Fred (at Lisa's special request) and Brad Barton, the Reality Thief (who delighted guests with his amazing talent in the art of persuasion). The chocolate-mocha cake was made by Karoline, Becca's pastry chef, and topped with a mini Golden Gate Bridge.

The Beach Blanket Babylon; menu by Chef Rebecca Alonzi, Seasonal Elegance

A San Francisco Inspired Menu by Seasonal Elegance

24th and Mission

Seared Bay Scallop over Saffron Risotto w/ Green Olive and Red Bellpepper Coulis

Pacific Catch

Wild Hamachi Sashimi, Coconut-Green Curry Vinaigrette, Fried Ginger, Cucumber on a Wonton Crisp

Route 101

Apple Turnip Cake, Smoked Trout, Watercress and Horseradish Crème Fraiche

Mercado Sabrosa

Slow Braised Chicken in Sweet Corn Masa, Traditional Red Mole, in a one-bite Banana Leaf

Lobster Lafayette

Lobster-Corn Ravioli with Basil-Mint Oil and Vanilla and Meyer Lemon Zest

Beach Blanket Babylon

Char-Grilled Crostini with Olive Oil Poached Octopus and Parsley-Caper Pesto

China Town Bistro

5-Spice Beef Brisket Sliders on cheddar chive biscuits with tender braised beef and Napa Cabbage Slaw

Saturday Morning Market Stall

Grilled Peach Pesto, Fresh Burrata Cheese and Olive Oil Crostini

Fisherman’s Harvest

Fresh Oysters, Lightly Grilled, Tomato Chokha Coulis