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Mysterious Building In late October Don and I enjoyed a Persian dining adventure, with our good friends. We were in San Diego, far from the Middle East.  It was 5:00 when we arrived in the North Park neighborhood of San Diego. This curious and windowless building, already had a line at the door. Ready to Go! We weren't worried about the line. Cliff and Rhona had made reservations exactly a month before. Pretty much the only way to get a table at this new and popular place!  Rhona and I posed in the dramatic entrance, with glowing red lamps. We were ready for the evening, but in no hurry. There was a lot to take in, on the outside. In We Go The mysterious doors opened every minute or so. A host greeted the next in line. (all had reservations) It felt a little like a speakeasy.  Once inside, our eyes had to adjust to the dark, space. 4,800 thousand square feet. Across the arched bridge, I spotted a bar with glowing green rabbits! I think they were rabbits.
I snapped photos quickly, knowing there would soon be crowds filling the space. To the left of the bar, I spotted some cozy booth seating.  I snapped another photo, even though the lighting was so dim it was impossible to capture. Trees and Sky We followed the hostess through the dazzling main dining room. The round table caught my eye... beside a glowing tree and beneath a ceiling of tiny white stars!  Arsalun Tafazoli is the name behind this spectacular, almost movie set interior. Although born in the U.S., Tafazoli's parents were from Iran. Growing up, he frequently visited the Middle East and grew to love the ancient beauty and regional foods, from Morocco to Iran. The spectacular atmosphere of Leila, was inspired by the night markets of Marrakesh. Room in Back We followed our hostess into a small room with 4 tables. There were arched windows looking into the main dining room.  Each table was lit by an oil lamp. An amazing mix of fabrics and textures and designs, surrounded each sitting area. Nearby Fountain We didn't have any glowing trees or bridges in our room.  But we slid into our booth, right beside this sweet tile fountain. It truly felt like we'd take a trip to a place that I've only seen in photos. Fabric Fort Rhona took this photo of Don and me, getting ready to enjoy the evening.
 We were absolutely surrounded by woven designs. It was cozy and romantic and playful all at once. It felt like a circus one moment and a childhood fort made of sheets & blankets, the next. I'm pretty sure that is not what Tafazoli had in mind with this design. But I loved it! Upstairs I only sat for a moment before I had to be "let out" of my corner. A trip to the Ladies Room was my excuse.  There actually was no Ladies Room, or Mens Room. This was the common area where all guests could wash their hands, or slip into one of the "water closets", behind a few beautifully carved doors.
Worthy of 2 photos!! This might have been the most lovely toilet I've ever seen! I wanted to peek in the other doors to see if the designs varied. But I was a little timid, in case someone failed to lock their door. Up & Down My trip to the restroom was sort of an excuse, to peek around quickly, before the crowds.  I just had to go up that pretty stairway, surrounded by rock walls and lamp-holding lions! The festive bar was even cozier than downstairs bar.  And the view from the second level, was worth the trip!  So many curves! So many glowing lanterns!  My attempts at showing the starry sky and the rocky wall, were quite lame. Better to just look with your eyes sometimes. Down I took a quick photo before dashing back to the table. Then I decided not to dash at all. There was no railing and my glasses were on the table. Man, this is dark. They are not catering to oldsters here. I squinted like an old granny and chuckled as I imagined myself... a slow (Carol Burnette-style) tumble, landing by the lions.  I'm being dramatic. I don't ever worry about stairs. But I did use my old rock-climbing skills and feel for a crevice or 2 as I walked (not dashed) all the way down. Kitchen No drama on the stairs, but I did see some flame excitement when I turned towards the open kitchen island, near the bottom of the stairs.  There was a lot going on with wood logs and flickering flames and massive skewers. A happy and busy staff was attending. Bread! The smells of fresh breads alerted me as well! Naan, pita, Khobz, Za'atar!  I believe the circular opening, was part of the custom made, clay tabun oven I'd read about. Similar to the tandoor ovens used for cooking Indian naan. Menu Honestly, I wasn't gone long. Our menus had just arrived. The design on the cover had just as many intricate designs as we had on and around our table.  We were encouraged by our server, to enjoy sharing many dishes. Salatim Platter We began with an amazing platter of breads and spreads and "dips". I'm sure dip is not the term to use. But we did lots of dipping.  Hummus, muhammara, cucumber yogurt, green tahini, shallot yogurt, pickles, olives, all served with 3 kinds of bread. The flavors were amazing. Cocktails Don and I haven't been to Iran or any of the Arab countries, that inspired the foods in the menu. But we've had quite a few Sazeracs, in New Orleans. Don was pretty curious to try Leila's Saz'arak.  This was quite an interesting version of the famous New Orleans cocktail! Bourbon arak, apricot, flaernum, peychaud's bitters!  Don was given some special instructions about how to go about this. I was was too busy with my own drink and foods, to see how he tackled this! Ready to Enjoy Cliff and Rhona lived in Azerbaijan, for a number of years. They've dined in Middle East. They've served us Turkish feasts. I knew if they were impressed, it would be a good thing.  They were! They seemed just as eager about taking in the atmosphere and enjoying all the flavors, as Don and me! Cheers to dining adventures with these 2!  And I must mention my drink, as well! Azizam! Rum, arak, cardamom, banana, coconut, pineapple, lime!  I was giddy over the wild list of tropical ingredients in my drink. I'd say it went well with my goodies from the platter! Main Dishes The photo below, shows that we possibly ordered too much for the size of our table!  Luckily the oval plate did not land in my lap. The flaming lamp did not fall over either!
The food arrived swiftly with a number of servers. 3 kinds of kabob, (chicken, beef veggie) were skillfully de-skewered onto large plates. I wish my camera skills had been faster. That scene was very fun!  The aromas wafting up from that table, were just amazing. So many flavors and spices. Saffron, turmeric, tahini, onion. The roasted tomatoes and sumac onions, were just perfect along with the tender meats!  The fire roasted cauliflower (above) was actually one of my favorites! Sun dried tomato, preserved lemon, cumin, dukkah... Just mouthwatering! Heading Off By the time the last plate was carried away, we were delightfully stuffed.  The restaurant was crowded and loud by the time we headed outside. The restaurant on 30th Street, looked fun with the dramatic lighting.  We had a short walk to our car, which was probably good. We needed to move a little, after that extraordinary feast!
What a memorable dinner, with the best of friends. So hope to return!
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Food & Film! Back in the day, a movie theatre dining adventure, would mean a popcorn dinner! That actually sounds good to me. But these days, you can get a real meal at many theatres.  But at the old Tower Theatre in Sacramento, you can have a popcorn feast with your movie, then walk a few steps next door to Tower Cafe (beneath the Records sign) for some great food and atmosphere! Tower District We have loved driving by this wonderful corner, since our son and daughter in law moved to Sacramento 7 years ago.  We finally got visit this little movie and cafe oasis 1.5 years ago. The theatre and cafe are hidden from traffic behind tall palms and lush garden growth. A lover of old movies, I was drawn to that art deco theatre!
While waiting for a table at the cafe, we took a peek at the posters and wandered inside the lobby.
Eventually, I got to take in a movie on another visit. My daughter-in-law Chali took me to the movies! Our Popcorn Dinner was the best! Brunch in June! Back in 2023, we had a real meal at the cafe end of the Tower Complex.  A beautiful Sunday in June! There was a long wait for our group of 7. History There was time to learn some history from displays in the theatre. The theatre was built in 1939. Long before the tall palms.   To the left of the tower, was Zamm's Candy Store, which provided the candy for movie patrons. To the right was Tower Drugs, which is where the Cafe is today. In the back of the drug store, Tower Records was founded, by Russ Solomon in 1949. Enjoying the Fountain On that lovely Sunday morning, there was lots garden space to enjoy while we waited for our table. 
We spent a lot of time hanging around that fountain.
And running around the fountain and greeting the lions. At least 2-year-old Charlie did.
 I usually hate long waits for tables. But I have fond memories of that waiting time. Our 2 kids and spouses and granddaughter all together! Perfect!  Time to catch up and chat, without distraction. Heading In Eventually we were called to be seated. We headed to the door, below the wonderful old neon sign.
Past the posing lion, next to the door. Inside The group was guided towards a patio table, but I peeked inside.  What a festive place!     Even the bathroom was photo worthy!  It was clear the restaurant was not going along with a Movie Theme or a Records Theme. Tower International Cafe Once we were given menus, it was clear that the cafe (which opened 1990 on Earth Day) was embracing Sacramento, as a "Global Village".  "...created to express the unique history and character of a city corner... evolve from local memories to global pursuits...where hearts, minds and appetites convene with family and friends...join 'the pattern which connects' our many differences to... our Good Earth" Family And here we were on a beautiful Sunday, gathering with family around a large table!  Enjoying fresh air and converstaion and Bloody Mary's...
And huge plates filled with pancakes... and foods I can't actually recall!   Cha and Scott are the 2 who lured us to Sacramento back then. They live not too far from Tower Cafe/Theatre.  And now it's October 2024. We don't have our whole group in town for this visit. But we're back and this time Don and I are staying at an Airbnb, just a 1 minute walk from Tower Theatre!
Yesterday morning I went for an early run and stopped to check out the movie options. Yes! I returned for a Hitchcock movie at 4:00! This Morning! This morning, Cha and Scott had to work, so Don and I walked over to the Cafe for breakfast!
Weather was chilly, so we headed inside to dine. No wait and a witch was there to greet! We were seated beside a Buddha, with fall veggies displayed at his feet.  Don's shirt matched his cup and plate beautifully!  His Bourbon Glazed Ham (with eggs & taters) was huge and delicious!  My moist Cornbread Pancakes melted in my mouth! The Halloween surprises were extra fun, added to all the international decor.  I could have enjoyed a tiny orange pumpkin hunt!  I failed to get a photo of our wonderful server, Susan. We chatted a long time about everything from Portland to pancakes. She was wonderful and we hope to see her next time. Sweets I also didn't get a photo of the amazing cookies we bought to take with us!  But I did get a photo of the luscious cakes and pies!
I just finished our breakfast 5 hours ago, but I'm ready to go back again. How I wish I had a house in this little neighborhood and could be a regular! Since 1939 I was thrilled when our son and daughter-in-law told us they'd made reservations at Frank Fat's! (That is NOT Fat Franks!)  Days before we arrived in Sacramento, I happened to read an article about the iconic restaurant, opened by Chinese immigrant Frank Fat, 85 years ago. Near the Capitol The article talked about the restaurant's reputation as a place where influential politicians come to drink, dine and negotiate. That was back in looser days, before lobbying reform.  We parked 2 blocks away, near the capitol. I couldn't help but wonder, since it was a Friday night. Maybe we'd spot some martini drinking politicians! Exterior I was hoping we'd see a neon sign with words like Chop Suey and Cocktails. I'd seen a photo with an image of Frank and the sign. It put a big spotlight on the address, 806 L Street.
There was no glowing sign when we arrived, but a plaque showed the same address. Besides black awning, the main focus was an enormous circular window. Beneath that, we entered through a set of doors, with a bit of a retro nightclub vibe. Lounge Once inside we were greeted at the desk by a hostess wearing a silk flowered robe, For a moment, I thought "Time Warp!" But then I saw how casually she wore the robe over other clothes. A blend of the old and new world, I guess.  The young woman in silk had us follow her to our table and I could see the interior was flashy and modern. I expected an old school dining room, but we were suddenly in a noisy Friday night lounge with lime green stools and hoodie sweatshirts. Laughing Buddha As we moved through the room, I looked up and saw a golden smiling face, inside circular alcove.  I learned from our very educational menu, that the smiling head (from a Temple in China) was covered in 24-carat gold leaf. It was originally part of a full figure, carved from wood.  As we passed through the lounge, I looked back and was a bit disappointed we weren't in this hopping and decorated space. I could see the round window, that we'd seen from the street. I wasn't sure what the artwork was above the bar, until I read my menu.  The silk tapestry (woven with gold threads) was used in the Shanghai Opera, in the 1920s. Dining Room We reached the next room and I thought, okay this must be the room everyone asks for! There was a lot going on in that fancy ceiling!  The walls also had some noteworthy treasures. Once again, I learned a little something from the menu's write-up. The Chinese screen in this room, was made up of 9 panels, showing 9 "immortals".  I couldn't see those immortals too well, because they were below the dragons. But they were each bringing a birthday gift to the Goddess of Heaven. She only gets 1 birthday every 1,000 years, so... no pressure to bring the proper present! Across from the dragon screen, there was a display showing the armor worn by an Imperial Palace Guard, in the 1840's.  "It is a gold brocade embroidered in colors and edged with black velvet and gilt rivet heads." I can see why it's kept behind glass. Eating in the Back Room We continued to follow our hostess into the back room. I was disappointed for a moment. Sometimes the room furthest away is not where you want to be.  The area was quieter, with private booths. We can't watch the action! I thought for a split second. Then as we slid into our spacious horseshoe booth, I realized this was the best. I'm sure some important negotiations (and proposals) have taken place in these booths. Golden Menu Our waiter greeted us, wearing a black shirt and yellow tie. He politely handed over 4 shimmering menus.  We didn't order martinis, but we did go for a little retro fun, with a shared Mai Tai, served in a fishbowl.
The 4 of us didn't fight over the 3 cherries. We all ended up with a cherry, when we eventually ordered another.  There was no classy way to share this monster Mai Tai. Chali and Scott gave it a try first.  It was too challenging to attempt a selfie with the 4 of us, plus our drink.  So we took 2 photos across the table! Combination Platter While we were in the sharing mood, we ordered an appetizer platter that pleased us all!  Spring Rolls, Salt & Pepper Chicken, Pot Stickers and Yu Kwok. A good start! Chinese American Cuisine Since 1939, Frank Fat's has offered traditional Chinese American dishes, like old school Chow Mein and good ole American grilled steak and banana cream pie.  We went for one of the most popular dishes, Honey Walnut Prawns. The prawns were lightly fried with honey sauce, walnuts and sesame seeds. Mouthwatering sweetness made us crave an order Garlic Green Beans! Both wonderful!  General Tso's Chicken was served with a tangy sweet glaze, surrounded by refreshing broccoli. Another good combination of sweet and fresh! Dessert We'd heard that Frank Fat's was known for their Banana Cream Pie, since 1940. We knew we had to try it.  Then Chali noticed the Taro Ice Cream option. It was an absolute hit! The buttery taste was as soothing as the lavender color! I will be seeking this on menus forever, now! Heading Out We finished up and headed for the door with a few boxed up leftovers. I paused near the front to study a few photos on the wall. How fun to see these cheerful announcements that Frank Fat's would be serving on Easter and Christmas.  The lower notice had an image of Santa carrying a steaming order. The cost for Christmas Dinner was $2.00! The Fat Family I studied the family photo for a moment and tried to recall what I'd read before. How Frank came to the U.S. illegally, as a teenager in 1919. He chose Frank Fat as his American name and worked in laundries and orchards and restaurants for 20 years. Frank was a waiter in 1939, when a man rewarded his honesty (a longer story there) by financing Frank Fat's restaurant!  And during that 20 year period, Frank went back to China for an arranged marriage and eventually had enough money to bring his wife and family to America! Frank passed away in 1997 and left behind many "fans" as well as awards and a restaurant that is still owned by the Fat Family. Thanks Scott and Cha The sweetest part of our dinner outing was minutes before we got outside, with our bag of leftovers.  Scott had turned away Don's credit card with a smile. Scott and Chali insisted on treating ole Dad and Mom.
How can we be old enough to have kids who treat us to dinner. Sweet memory! Hidden Saloon from 1912 Don and I had a mighty memorable night at The Blue Beet, in October... when we finally found it on Balboa Peninsula.  The 110 year old brick building stood just yards from wharf. We could see it on the map, but we still drove in circles. The skinny, 3-story structure was sort of tucked into an alley. Stark's in 1912 We were greeted by a narrow hall when we stepped inside. If it had been a century earlier, (when Henry Stark owned the saloon) I probably wouldn't have been allowed inside. Unless my name was Dollar Dolly. She was an older "Lady of the Night" who searched for customers at Stark's. This may just be folklore... not sure.
I was not nearly as bold as Dolly, so I let Don lead the way. Actually, I was just moving slowly as I studied the walls and thought about Mr. Stark. I'd read up a bit on the internet. He evidently ran the rough and tumble saloon, in a pretty relaxed manner, back in the day. He managed to keep the bar open, even through prohibition days. He also allowed a never ending poker game to continue throughout his ownership. When the bar closed at 2 am, the game continued right into the morning, when the bar re-opened at 6 am. Sid's Blue Beet in 1960 If we'd come in the 1960's, when Sid Soffer took ownership, I might have felt a little more welcome. I assume women were allowed, in the sixties. If they'd felt uncomfortable though, they could have put a dime in the payphone near the door, to call a cab. Not sure if that phone is actually original.  From what I've read, the owner Sid was even more of a character than Henry Stark. He served food, but refused to offer condiments. He got himself on the city council where he stirred up trouble... enough trouble, that he fled to Vegas to avoid arrest. He died in Vegas, in 2007. The Bar Today I believe The Blue Beet has been owned by a father and son, since 2015. I know nothing about them.  We didn't see the owners, but met Manny the bartender (manager?) when we arrived after 6 on a Monday evening. Entertainment We had heard that singer/guitarist Mike Hamilton would be performing that evening. Don and I became quick fans when we enjoyed his music in Laguna Beach, back in 2012. Manny said Mike wouldn't be performing till closer to 7, so we had time to kill.  I looked around the cozy-dim space and wondered about other performers in the saloon's past. I'm sure there were many musicians over the years, but evidently in the sixties you could also enjoy entertainment like flamenco dancing or poetry readings. At some point Steve Martin did stand up here! Sunset After peeking around a bit, we decided to head outside to see if we could catch the sunset.  We didn't have to walk far. The Pacific was lovely and we caught the sun just before it disappeared. More Bars We wandered near the pier and studied some of the businesses facing the water. The older bars reminded us that this area was once a working class seaport. In the early 1900's buildings stood yards from the wharf, offering food and drink... and brothels.
I'm sure "Blackies By the Sea" and "Beach Ball" have some stories to tell. Who knows how old they actually are, but they now stay open more hours than Blue Beet! Blackie's opens daily at 10. Beach Ball appears to have the same hours that Blue Beet had long ago. "Closed 2am to 6am" Back to the Beet It was a little darker (than my photo) by the time we returned to the Blue Beet. The window to the kitchen was open, sharing some pretty good smells.  Luckily no smells of burning food... or burning building. Evidently there was a huge fire in 1986, that destroyed most of the interior. Luckily, enough of the brick exterior was spared, so the building could be renovated. Peek in the Kitchen Once inside, I had another view of the kitchen.  Under the Prime Steaks sign, I could catch a glimpse of the bright room, that made our dinner later. Mike & Guitar Don and I headed for the back room, where Mike was setting up, beneath a neon Blue Beet sign.  I've kept up with with Mike on Facebook, since seeing him perform in Laguna. He knew his fans from 10 years ago, were coming that night, so if was a fun reunion. We chatted casually while Mike dealt with all his equipment. Upstairs Mike and Don continued to gab, while I explored. I climbed upstairs to check out all the levels.    There was even a roof terrace, on the top level. I took a quick peek and headed back down, checking out all the framed posters and photos, on my way.  There was an odd assortment of framed celebrities, from Jackie Kennedy to sports players. And then there were images that clearly had stories behind them. Questions There was a lot to wonder about. What was original from the old saloon, besides the brick?
But there was no time for questions. Mike was tuning up and I was thirsty and hungry. From Beatles to Bach Don and I grabbed a table in the cozy back room and spent the next few hours enjoying Mike's mellow voice and acoustic guitar. He started with Simon and Garfunkel's, "The Boxer" Good choice.
I requested Cat Stevens and heard an old favorite, "Moon Shadow". Perfect! It was fun to hear some Kenny Loggins tunes, knowing that Mike toured with him back in the seventies. Another nice surprise was hearing Mike's guitar doing a little combo of Bach and Pachabel! What an enjoyable evening. Food Too We hadn't come for the food but we did have a decent dinner with our drinks and music. The salad with grilled chicken, goat cheese, candied walnuts, beets, apples and and balsamic dressing was very tasty!
The house Pesto Flatbread with mozzarella and baby arugula was surprisingly yummy. So I mentioned the food, because this is a Dining Blog. But the tasty food was just a part of the enjoyable evening. The other guests and laid back atmosphere, made it feel like we were in someone's living room, hanging out. Mike chatted through his mic, introducing us to to each other and telling stories... experimenting with different requests and thanking us all repeatedly. We hadn't intended on staying until his last song, but we did and enjoyed every minute. Last to Go I guess Don and I acted like Groupies. We lingered, until only Mike and Manny were left.  Manny took our picture and we 3 grinned, kind of like we did 10 years ago when we took a photo at The White House in Laguna. Yay for a good mix of music, food and historic atmosphere!
Hitchcock-Inspired-Throwback-Post I watched Hitchcock's Vertigo last night!  It made me crave a trip back to San Francisco! Especially Nob Hill! The Fairmont! As we watched, I recognized the Fairmont Hotel behind Jimmy Stewart. Don and I last visited San Francisco in 2019 and spent a night.  It was October 20, which was 40 years after the day we were married. We were in giddy spirits that day... which was just a couple months before the beginning of the Covid pandemic. Sure glad we didn't know that was coming. The Tonga-Room-Turn-Away So today, I'll remember that carefree evening on Nob Hill! We started by pulling our tiki attire from our suitcases and heading for the hotel's Tonga Room!  The iconic basement lounge opened at 5. We arrived at 5:05 and got an abrupt greeting from a guard. "Private Event." "But..." I pointed to our clothes (as if that was the ticket to get us in) and sputtered, "Look at how we're dressed we came all the way from Houston and we're here one night it's our 40th anniversary and when I made reservations weeks ago they said it would be open..." The guard was not amused.  If it had been a party we could have crashed it. But some big name company had booked many of the event spaces and they were using the fabulous tropical lounge, like an office. Workers quietly gazed into their glowing laptops, mostly ignoring the festive decor or buffet of food. Good grief. "Well, you'll at least have to take our photo." I insisted. The guard agreed. Laurel Court Luckily there are lots of options if you're staying at the Fairmont. We headed upstairs to the lovely lobby bar, which did not turn us away.  Don insisted on changing out of his shirt with the ukuleles. I was determined to make use of my flamingo dress.  We sat on a comfy rounded couch, with a sort of Tuscan scene behind us. We toasted to our happy 40 years, with French 75s. I wish we'd also had a toast with the water glasses. They matched my dress! Sir Francis Drake Hotel (Now Beacon Grand) From the Fairmont, we took a walk of less than 10 minutes, to another iconic hotel. The rounded sign above the marquee, lured us to the rooftop's Starlight Room. The happening lounge on the 21st floor opened a few years after the hotel opened in 1928.  Don and I actually stayed at the Sir Francis Drake nearly 20 years ago. But we were with our kids and didn't visit the swanky lounge. The lounge had recently reopened with a new name and we were eager to go. In fact the hotel itself, has a new name as of 2021. The British explorer Sir Francis Drake, evidently is not someone we want to spotlight anymore. He played a big part with British slave trade... Grand Entrance The entrance to the hotel looked just as grand as I remembered. I recall our kids posing for a photo with the doorman, dressed his elaborate Beefeater's attire. Our gracious doorman also offered to pose. I read that those uniforms cost $3,000 and weigh 40 pounds!
I couldn't find the old photo, but I found this one of Don and kids heading up the grand staircase to the lobby. The sign on the left shows an arrow to the Harry Denton's Starlight Room! Harry Denton was the club owner at that time. His Sunday Drag Shows were a big hit. Lobby Bar Before heading to the elevator, we took in the palatial lobby bar! The gold leaf and marble and vaulted ceilings and glamorous chandeliers were quite impressive! The tourists hanging out near the bar, were less so.  It was tempting to sit on one of those comfy barstools, just to take it all in.
Maybe the bartender could have told us more about that glossy Beefeater, displayed in the center. It looked like it had just popped out of a jello mold. But I snapped a photo and we moved towards the elevator. The Starlight Room closed early on that Sunday evening. The Old Starlight As the elevator took us to the 21st floor, I wondered what the lounge would be like. We knew it had just reopened with a new look. I guessed we would not see men in dark suits and ladies in gloves.  I also guessed we wouldn't see red velvet and high back booths. Not that long ago, there had been a dress code for the lounge. Lizzie's Lounge Suddenly we had arrived at Lizzie's Lounge. Supposedly the new name was for Queen Elizabeth who supposedly had an affair with Sir Francis Drake. Hmm. .  The light, modern vibe was a pleasant change from the lobby. It was definitely a younger crowd.. although not a bit crowded. We stood for moment and the bartender greeted with a reminder. "Last call is at 8:00." For a moment I wondered if that reminder was issued to old geezers like us. Purple DJ But clearly things were winding down in the pretty pastel lounge. The DJ was tucked into his own little corner, between white wispy curtains and walls of glass. The only dancers on the floor were purple lights.  There were no throbbing dance beats filling the lounge. I kept hoping some of the interesting guests would get up and make use of that glowing dance floor.  I was especially curious about the woman (far left) with rabbit ears, poking out of her shiny wig. Her mini skirt and fishnets looked like they were meant for an audience. But she was too busy with her drink. I liked the way she held her wig hair back, with both hands, as she leaned over her glass and sipped through the straw. No Straw For Me I enjoyed my wine, even though I had no straw.  I didn't worry that I was the oldest woman in the lounge, Or that my skirt was below my knees. I was wearing my flamingo dress and proud of it. The View We enjoyed our drinks, while looking out over the glowing city.  We tried not to rush, but the lights in the lounge got a little brighter and our bill was delivered. Getting Brighter Before we finished our drinks, the lights seemed to get brighter and then our bill arrived.  We were told "No rush." but we definitely felt the nudge to leave. Don signed away, with a lovely quill pen. Nursing my Drink I'm very good at nursing drinks, but Lizzie's did not invite me to linger. I posed with my glass and left it behind. In the elevator, we lucked out and got to ride down, with the woman wearing bunny ears. I told the woman that I really liked her ears. She complimented my flamingo dress.  After feeling a little rushed to leave the lounge, we arrived in the lobby to realize Don had left his jacket behind. The elevator wouldn't allow us to go back up. The lounge wouldn't answer the phone. We alerted the lobby bartender and finally the DJ came down the elevator with Don's jacket. Oh what a silly time. Food at Sears! This post is about drinks in 3 hotels. But I need to make it clear that we did eat. Yep, it was our 40th anniversary and we could have done better. But we were just winging it.  After Lizzie's, we headed across the street and had a fun and fattening meal at the 81-year-old Sear's Fine Food! Not exactly classy, but just right for us! Mark Hopkins Hotel After our Sears feast, we were ready for our last stop at the lavish Mark Hopkins Hotel.  Long before the hotel was built in 1926, the Mark Hopkins mansion, stood on this spot. It was destroyed by fire after the 1906 Earthquake. (Love these facts!) Top of the Mark In my daytime photo, you can see the Top of the Mark bar, on the 19th floor near the flag. Originally that top floor was an 11-room penthouse apartment.
Don and I were excited to return fr our second visit to Top of the Mark. We often laugh at memories of ourselves in 1982, ordering beers at Top of the Mark and gasping at the price. Dark and Cozy We headed up the elevator feeling much less intimidated in 2019. We planned to NOT order beers.
We probably should have ordered martinis. There serve 100 varieties! But it was so cozy and quiet on a Sunday at 10. We got Irish coffees and once again enjoyed a view of the illuminated city. It seemed just right.  My photo is blurred, but at least I have one. Back in the 80's we have so few photos of our travels. I'm pretty sure I wasn't wearing a flamingo dress that evening, years ago. In the 50s? I do know what Top of the Mark was like, 40 years ago. But how about the 50's when women wore hats and smoking was allowed. Or in 1958 when Vertigo was filmed. I'm sure Hitchcock and his stars, Jimmy Stewart and Kim Novak probably enjoyed a drink or two.  I was glad to find some old photos. Evidently it was in 1939, that the penthouse was converted to a glass-walled cocktail lounge. I looked around, trying to figure out what changes had been made over time.
I wandered just a bit from our table and found a raised dance floor and a rounded bar, which gave me hints of the past. Farewell Drink After we finished up, we headed towards the elevator and noticed a case holding old bottles. What were those notes wrapped around them?  During WWII, San Francisco was a major transit point for troops. Servicemen often had farewell drinks before shipping out. The NW corner of the lounge was knows as Weeper's Corner. Wives were known to gather for their final look at the departing ships. Sad. The Notes I read that it was during the Korean War that "Squadron Bottles" were kept at the bar. Members signed and dated the label after claiming a free drink.  The man who drank the last sip from a bottle would keep the signed one and purchase a new bottle. By the end of the war, there were 32 squadron bottles in use. Good Night After visiting The Mark, we had a 1 minute walk to the Fairmont. What a fun night, visiting 3 hotel lounges! And thanks Mr. Hitchcock, for reminding me of this wonderful city and area. I had fun thinking back to that memorable night on Nob Hill
I'm ready for another visit. Not sure we can ever afford the Mark Hopkins, but I heard there is a "Hotel Vertigo" in the area. It was one of the buildings used in the film.
We'll see! |
The Dining Blog
This is a blog about Dining Adventures. Sometimes, I talk about food. Below, you can read how this started. On July 4th 2011, I set a goal to try 50 culturally diverse restaurants in one year! (I knew that was possible, living in the Houston area) I spent the year pulling in friends and family to join me, on some unusual dining adventures. I met some curious people, tried some scary foods and explored places and cultures I never would have otherwise. Even though I met my goal, I learned too much to end my adventures in dining. I have continued blogging about memorable dining adventures of all kinds, near and far... and all the discoveries and funny things I've learned along the way! Locations and types of dining adventures, are listed further down. Archives
January 2025
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