Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square - Is It Overhyped?

The short answer to that question: Yes, it is overhyped. Not that the food isn't good. But is the food amazing enough for me to wait hours like people often have to do to eat there? Definitely not. I also don't agree that Mama's is "the best breakfast in town" as quoted in a Time article on the San Francisco: 10 Things to Do. Mama's has been serving up breakfast in the San Francisco North Beach area for over fifty years and is without a doubt a historical tourist landmark of sorts. But in my opinion, I think there are better brunch spots in San Francisco. In case you're wondering, "Where in San Francisco could breakfast be better than Mama's?!": Check out my prior blog post on the Best Brunch Spots in San Francisco.

I digress. So what can you expect at Mama's? Here's a synopsis of my experience. 

The Arrival

If you want breakfast at Mama's there is absolutely no getting around having to wait unless you send your significant other earlier to wait in line. Then you can show up just as he/she has finally made it to the front! Otherwise, you are guaranteed to have to wait no matter what day or time you come! I learned this the hard way. I thought I was being smart showing up at 8am on a Friday. After all, most people have to work on Friday mornings. For those who don't work, they'd be crazy to get up so early for breakfast right? Wrong! Lesson learned: There are a lot of people crazy enough to wake up bright and early to stand in line for Mama's. Upon arriving at 8am on a Friday morning, I was greeted by this lovely long line that had already formed well before the restaurant even opened.

The Wait

While you patiently wait outside, you can start pondering which of Mama's Specialties you plan to order. Then you should plaster your face on the window and ogle at the heavenly goodness that people inside are eating. Sure, it makes them uncomfortable, but who cares right? You're starving and you can literally feel your stomach gnawing at itself. And who knows! Maybe if the people inside feel uncomfortable enough, then they'll eat faster and leave so you can finally have your chance at devouring the delicious breakfast goodies!  

The Ordering
After 50 minutes, which is apparently a short wait for typical Mama's lines, we were finally granted entry into Mama's where we were greeted by yet another line. This was the golden ticket line where you finally get to place your food order! Needless to say, I figured it was highly unlikely that I'd ever want to wait to eat here again. So between two of us we ordered two egg dishes and two french toast dishes. Once our orders had been taken and paid for, we stood over the tables like vultures stalking their prey--just watching and waiting for somebody, anybody, to finish eating and abandon their table for our use.

The Food

After a 15 minute wait our food slowly started to arrive at the table. We were ready to pounce on everything in front of our faces! 

Dungeness Crab Omelette w/Baby Spinach & Brie & Gruyere Cheese

The Dungeness Crab Omelette w/Baby Spinach & Brie & Gruyere Cheese was divine! Then again, you can't really go wrong with anything that has dungeness crab in it! The omelette was perfectly cooked and loaded with chunks of crab and hot melty cheese. Served with bread (I chose sourdough) and potatoes, the meal is very filling. 

Dungeness Crab Benedict w/Sauteed Baby Spinach 

Though I usually prefer an eggs Benedict, Mama's Dungeness Crab Benedict w/Sauteed Baby Spinach was not as amazing as I had hoped. It was all right, but a bit on the bland side. Any dish that requires you to drown it with salt and hot sauce just isn't that delicious to begin with. If you want a really good Crab Benedict, I prefer the one at Mission Beach Cafe, which is served with avocado, hollandaise, and orange reduction. Now that's an explosion of flavor in your mouth!! 

Mama's Famous French Toast Sampler

Lastly, was a sampler plate of Mama's Famous French Toast. The Banana Walnut french toast tasted like a slice of banana bread with some fried egg on the side. The same goes for the Cranberry Orange Walnut french toast. The Cinnamon Brioche was a standard french toast--nothing particularly amazing or unique. Overall, Mama's french toast was decent, but not super impressive. Want some "knock-your-socks-off" French Toast? Go to Nopa instead for their Custard French Toast--a thick piece of toast sprinkled with rosemary, candied citrus, and smothered with maple butter! Now THAT is a drool-worthy french toast!

The Conclusion

Would I ever go back to Mama's? I won't say "Never", but the chances of me going again are about as high as the chances of me being the first in line at Mama's without having to arrive before they open. So not likely at all. 

If you really want to Mama's off your list I'd highly recommend going early on a weekday. Send one person to wait in line while another goes to fetch some coffee nearby. And when you finally gain access, don't miss out on trying the homemade blackberry jam. The freshly made jam is absolutely delicious on anything! 

The Turkey Edition: 6 Best Places to Visit in Turkey

Oh Turkey! How I Love Thee... Let Me Count the Ways!

Turkey wasn't always one of my favorite countries. In fact, it never really crossed my mind as a "must-visit" destination. It was a one-off country that seemed cool, but didn't stick out. Probably because I knew little about it. However, my perspective changed during my two weeks there. I discovered the underwater treasures below the Mediterranean Sea, was mesmerized by the gleaming white thermal pools in Pamukkale, and marveled at the dramatic Cappadocia landscape as I floated from high above in a hot air balloon. Turkey is indeed a hidden gem. What makes Turkey so amazing? I could go on and on and on. But let's start with just the top 6 reasons:

1. The Gleaming Travertines of Pamukkale

Pamukkale, meaning "cotton castle" in Turkish, is an absolute MUST SEE. The natural beauty of the travertines were formed over hundreds of years as the calcium-laden thermal waters cascaded down the mountain and hardened to create the glistening white calcium pools that you see today. 

MUST DO: Swim in the Thermal Pool
The hot spring water is said to have health benefits for circulation and the digestive system. In fact, the Romans built the spa city of Hierapolis around a sacred thermal spring--the Sacred Pool. If you fancy a swim to feel like the Romans did, you can pay to swim in it. When you tire of lazying around, you can meander through the marble columns from the Temple of Apollo or explore the great Roman amphitheater of Hierapolis. Pamukkale is a mix of beautiful landscape, hot thermal baths, and rich history. What more could you ask for?

2. The Dramatic Cappadocia Landscape

Cappadocia is surreal. The volcanic craters, desolate plateaus, and mushroom-shaped rock formations jutting from the ground makes this city a rocky wonderland. The intricate landscape is dotted with houses and churches burrowed into the stone cliffs. And the underground cities built centuries ago for Christians fleeing Roman persecution can still be visited today. 

MUST DO: Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Cappadocia

A favorite activity in Cappadocia is taking a hot air balloon ride over the fairy tale landscape as the sun slowly rises to light up the city. If hot air balloons aren't for you, Cappadocia offers plenty of other options. Adventure seekers can explore the vast number of hiking trails or see the city from aboard an ATV. History buffs will thrive on the stories past as they traverse the underground cities and multitude of museums. You can also take a pottery-making or carpet-making class. Or just relax in your cave hotel. I did mention that the majority of hotels are built into caves right? 

3. The Mellow Town of Kas

The small coastal town of Kas does not boast the best of beaches--they are small and pebbly. What is lacking in nice beaches, is made up for by the deep blue coastal sea, the narrow streets lined with a colorful array of flowers, and the plethora of adventure sports. In particular, Kas is a leading scuba diving destination in Turkey. Visitors can also trek the Lycian Way, go mountain bike, or make a day trip to Megisti, the Greek Island lying just across the water. 

MUST DO: Sail in the Mediterranean Sea to Kekova
Don't miss the opportunity to sail around the Sunken City Ruins of Simena (aka Kekova). After all, who wouldn't want to cruise around the Turkish islands and dive into the Mediterranean Sea for a quick swim? And after a long day exploring, Kas will welcome you back to comfortable guest houses, home style cooking, and open air bars where you can relax and chat with other travelers about your days adventure. Sounds pretty amazing right? I couldn't agree more!

4. Antalya: The "Blue" City 

Both beautifully modern and classical, this large vibrant city perched on the Gulf of Antalya is a leading tourist destination. The city is adorned with beaches boasting sparkling deep blue waters and surrounded by tree-lined mountain ranges. 

MUST DO: Get Lost in Antalya's Historic Sites
Explore Kalceici, the old town of Antalya, which still retains much of its original ancient Ottoman architecture. Then visit the ruins of Termessos and the Antalya Archaeological Museum. Tired of all the historical sites? Go take a dip in the sparkling blue Mediterranean Sea or mountain climb along the lush cliffs. For the more cultured, visit Aspendos for the Ballet and Opera Festival. Antalya also offers a number of exceptional bars and clubs--many of which have live performances. 

5. The Ruins of Ephesus

Ephesus is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World--the Temple of Artemis. Although only about 15% of the site has been unearthed, Ephesus has the largest collection of Roman ruins in the eastern Mediterranean. The magnificence of this well-preserved ancient city lends to why it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Turkey. 

MUST DO: Meander Through the Roman Columns
Imagine the Roman Empire that once inhabited this land as you get lost among the impressive structures that loom above you. Explore the Odeon, the Library of Celsus, and the Great Theatre. Expect to spend a few hours exploring before you head out to a nearby restaurant to try Gozleme, a traditional crepe-like Turkish meal.

6. Istanbul: A Blend of History & Modernism

Formerly the capital of the Ottoman Empire, Istanbul is one of the largest cities in the world. As with most cities in Turkey, Istanbul is a striking blend of old town ambiance and exotic modern flair. The city offers a myriad of things to do from visiting historical sites like Ayasofya and the Blue Mosque, to wandering through vibrant neighborhoods like Taksim Square. There is also a fantastic nightlife with bars and clubs that I hear are frequented by celebrities. So who knows, you might have a celebrity sighting here! From the fantastic array of delicious Turkish specialties, to the Hamams (Turkish Baths), and Whirling Dervish shows, Istanbul has it all. 

MUST DO: Cruise Along the Bosphorus Strait
Though often overlooked by many tourists, cruising along the winding Bosphorus Strait is one thing you should definitely make time for. The Strait separates Europe and Asia, making Istanbul the only city that spans two continents. As you cruise along, you can admire the magnificent panoramic view of both continents from the comfort of your boat. Pretty cool huh? 

Foodie Trends: The Toast Craze

$3-4 for a piece of toast?!! Seriously? ...Yup! If you haven't heard, which you probably haven't unless you live in San Francisco, "Artisanal" Toast is becoming one of the latest foodie trends. Though I never jumped on the Cronut bandwagon (<GASP>! Shocker I know!!), this Toast craze definitely caught my eye. I first came upon the concept of "special" toast when 7x7 released their infamous "Big Eat" list for 2014. I scrolled through the list searching for something of interest when lo, and behold, #3: Cinnamon toast at Trouble Coffee called out to me with this picture:

I love bread, especially crunchy, toasted slices of bready goodness. And, in my opinion, anything doused with cinnamon is absolutely divine. Needless to say, my jaw dropped and the first thought running through my head was, "What is this delicious goodness?!!" I immediately added Trouble Coffee's Cinnamon Toast to my "SF Eat List" for another day. However, when all these articles about Toast in San Francisco began appearing, I became antsy and HAD to try it PRONTO. This weekend's weather was perfect for it. What could be better than pairing a cup of Four Barrel Coffee and a piece of warm toast on a rainy weekend? So off to The Mill I went!! (I'm sure you're wondering, why The Mill and not Trouble Coffee. The Mill is close to me and on a rainy day, trekking out to Trouble Coffee seemed... well... troublesome!).

The Mill

Upon entering The Mill, I was greeted with a bright, open space, and a very social, friendly, buzzing atmosphere from all the patrons seated at the communal wooden tables. My eyes then wandered over to the shelves and shelves of bread loaves galore! YUM!! By the cashier was small little chalkboard listing the day's four different toast options. Four different toast options?!! But there's only me and nobody to split with! What to do? I decided to do what anybody should do in these types of situations. I ordered 2 different toasts despite the cashier telling me they were thick, very filling, and usually one piece of toast is sufficient for most customers. Hey, a girl's gotta eat!!


Dark Mountain Rye with Cream Cheese, Sea Salt + Pepper 

First up, was the Dark Mountain Rye toast slathered with a thick coat of Cream Cheese then topped with sprinkles of Sea Salt and Pepper. The rye toast was hearty and dense and perfectly toasted. As I bit into this toast with a resounding crunch, my mouth was met with a crispy, warm crust and a perfect blend of salted peppery cream cheese. Who knew the combo would taste so good? I give it two thumbs up! Well worth the $3.75!







Raisin Bread with Almond Butter, Cinnamon Sugar + Sea Salt
Eager to try my second toast before it got cold, I moved on to the extra-thick slice of Raisin Bread toast. The creamy organic almond butter was oozing down the edges of the still-warm toast and topped off evenly with a bit of cinnamon sugar and a few speckles of sea salt. Holy melt-in-your mouth goodness! If I had three thumbs, I'd give this three-thumbs up! It was like a cinnamon sugar pretzel, but not... kind of like a sea salt candy, but not quite. The delicious combination of sweet and salty and perfect blend of crispy toast with gooey almond butter had me grinning from ear to ear. 

So is all this toast craze as amazing as it sounds or just a hype? For me, without a doubt, I am in love!! I can't wait to try Trouble Coffee's Cinnamon Toast! I'll let you know how that goes! 

6 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Argentina

Planning a trip to Argentina? STOP and read this first before proceeding any further!! While traveling through Argentina for 2 weeks I learned a few things that I wish I had known before going. So here are they are for you to read about before you go!

1. You Have to Pay a Reciprocity Fee Online BEFORE You Enter Argentina

As of January 7, 2013 you have to pay your reciprocity fee online before you land in Argentina. Yes, BEFORE. This means you cannot even check-in and board your flight headed to Argentina until you've shown proof of payment (a printed receipt). I found out the hard way when I arrived at the airport and was informed I could not check in until I showed proof of payment. This incident not only taught me that I had to pay this fee ahead of time, but also that the payment site is buggy and goes down at 6am. I also learned that even once I've paid the fee, there's NOTHING open at the airport for me to print my receipt at such an early hour! I did manage to get the situation sorted, but that's a story for another time. Bottom line--pay your fees! You can do that here. This applies to anybody with an U.S., Australian, or Canadian passport. At the time of writing fees are as follows:

• U.S. citizens: US $160 for multiple entry valid for 10 years
• Australian citizens: US $100 for multiple entry valid for 1 year beginning on date of payment
• Canadian citizens: 
• US $75 for one-entry (with exit and re-entry from bordering countries: Bolivia, Uruguay, Brazil, Paraguay, and Chile at no additional cost within three months 
• US $150 for multiple entry valid for 5 years

2. Beware of Pick Pockets

This might be common sense, but there are plenty of pick pockets in Argentina, particularly in Buenos Aires where there are tourists galore! I'm a relatively smart traveler and even I <GASP> got pick pocketed! I was lucky and the guy only found a rotten brown banana in my backpack. Argentina isn't dangerous, but like any situation, whether in the U.S. or abroad, you should practice safe travel habits. A few key tips:

• Carry your backpack in front and never store anything valuable in outside, easily accessible pockets.
• Keep your wallet and cell phone in front pockets--don't carry it in your hand at all.
• Always keep the camera strap on your wrist when taking a picture. It's common for a robber to run by and take the camera right out of your hand as you're taking a picture.
• Though not a pick pocket scenario, do pay attention when paying your taxi driver. You'll pay with a 10 and he'll claim you gave him a 5, then start arguing with you. It's good practice to verbally count the money out in front of him before handing it over.

3. Save Those Coins! They're Rare!

Planning to take public buses? You'll need coins and it's difficult to get change anywhere. So when you come across coins, save them for when you really need it.

  

4. The Not-So-Underground Black Market Exchange Is Legit

For the best exchange rate, bring U.S. dollars and exchange it on the black market. I was hesitant at first, but found that it's relatively easy to do and actually quite common. So common that the black market exchange rate, known as the blue dollar, is printed daily in the Buenos Aires newspaper, El Cronista, and is updated live online! During my trip in November 2013, the government rate was 6 pesos to the U.S. dollar, while the blue dollar value was 9.5 pesos to the dollar. You won't have to look far to find a place to exchange--the money exchangers will approach tourists in the streets. Note: Make all exchanges Monday thru Saturday. Banks are closed on Sunday and even the money exchangers will have left their street posts on Sundays for a day off. 

5. Long Distance Bus Travel is Luxurious

If you plan on traveling long distances, whether in Argentina or to neighboring countries, consider traveling by bus. Not only will you save on a night of lodging, but the buses are super luxurious with fully-reclining seats, personal TV screens, Wi-Fi, full meals, and all the wine you can drink! You also get a discount for purchasing early. I bought my bus tickets through Plataforma10. Use Google Translate if you can't read Spanish.

6. Relax! You're in Argentina!

Everything is slower-paced and things happen later in Argentina. Dinner at 9pm is normal. People tend to run late and go at a slower pace. So while you're in Argentina slow down, relax, and enjoy a glass of Malbec as you wait for the waiter to bring your meal or for the hotel clerk to help you check in. There's no rush! Cheers!

"Don't drink tap water!" and Other Tips for Avoiding Travelers' Diarrhea

A friend recently posted a question on whether this is fact or myth: Avoid drinking water in Mexico. "Not even the ice?" she asked. "I guess I'll just have to replace water with alcohol! #shitFaced"

Obviously, this made me chuckle, but the question also surprised me a bit. I guess having traveled through so many 3rd world countries, personally encountering the "Bali Belly", and witnessing so many others suffer the agony of being "stuck" from taking Imodium to alleviate the runs, I just assumed this was common knowledge. I was obviously wrong. So I thought I'd share some learnings I've made on food and beverage consumption while traveling. Keep in mind, that while most people assume these tips are only relevant for traveling in third world countries, you really should play it safe in any country as a foreign traveler. You just never know what little micro organisms are crawling around over there in your food and water that your belly won't like. Better safe than sorry! 

Now for your tips!

1. Don't drink tap water!

Seems obvious right? Water in many third world countries is polluted resulting in all kinds of icky things swimming around in the water. To be safe, avoid drinking tap water, even from your five star hotel room. Instead, buy bottled water.

2. Check the seals on those bottle caps
In many third world countries, the locals will refill used water bottles with tap water and re-sell it to unsuspecting travelers. Be sure to check that the bottle caps have not been tampered with before buying the water. Your best bet is to buy your bottles from larger establishments. Do the same with juices, soda, and even your alcohol. Better yet, buy cans and juice boxes that cannot be tampered with. 

3. Skip the ice in your drinks
It's sweltering outside and all you're craving is an ice cold beverage to quench that thirst. I've been in your shoes and all I can say is: Don't give in! Oftentimes, the ice is made from tap water so you don't want it in your beverage. If you're thinking, "I'll just chug my drink real fast! The ice won't even have a chance to melt." DO NOT DO IT! My friend made that bad choice in Egypt and was stuck to the toilet for two whole days after. Keep this in mind when ordering that Margarita or Pina Colada as well--it's the same ice! If you're desperate, you can ask the server if the ice is factory-made, which means it should be made with purified water. But be warned: Not all vendors will be honest. 

4. Avoid raw fruits and vegetables
Craving a salad or that bowl of berries? Skip it. The leafy greens and thin-skinned fruits were probably washed with undrinkable and/or unsanitary water. If you really want vegetables, have cooked alternatives. For fruits, eat the ones that have thicker, non-consumable skin like bananas or oranges.

5. Brush your teeth with bottled water
Don't use tap water to rinse your mouth or toothbrush. The bacteria from the water can easily transfer and stay in your mouth or toothbrush. Use bottled water instead.

6. Avoid dairy products
Avoid unpasteurized dairy products including milk, eggs, cheese, and yogurt. Unpasteurized dairy products can contain bacteria that will typically upset Western stomachs. 

7. Skip the buffets
The food in buffets tend to be cooked in large batches early in the day and then sit around waiting to be consumed. Oftentimes, they don't have proper heating devices resulting in a bacteria breeding ground. I can't count the number of people I know that have gotten sick from buffets in the U.S. so what makes you think it'll be safe in a third world country? 

8. Eat where there is high turnover
High end hotel restaurant does not equate to safe food. I personally experienced my Bali Belly from a hotel restaurant buffet. I ate the eggs there. So I basically broke rule #6, #7, and #8 all at once! What did I win? Three days straight of having to stay close to a toilet and not being able to get my scuba certification. That being said, are street vendors ok? Personally, I think it's fine as long as you are careful. Are there a lot of locals coming and going? That tends to mean the food is being cooked fresh and not just sitting around. Just make sure the food you are going to eat has been stored properly and that your food is cooked all the way through. I've eaten at dozens upon dozens of street vendors and haven't gotten sick from them yet (KNOCK ON WOOD).

9. Don't eat raw or undercooked meat or seafood
Have a craving for sushi? Don't even think about it! My friend decided to break rule #7 and #9, when she had a craving for sushi in Vietnam. To ease her belly pains she popped a few Imodium's after. Let's just say, she was miserably congested for a good 10 days after that. Not a fun way to spend your holiday in Vietnam!