Check, Please! Bay Area is KQED Public Television’s local series featuring regular people reviewing San Francisco Bay Area restaurants. Find out more about this KQED series at: kqed.org/checkplease.
Our season finale begins in West Oakland with central Texas barbeque meets Italian delicatessen. With a beer garden, pinball machines and games, Stay Gold Deli has something for everyone. Then, we head to San Francisco’s Sunset District for expertly crafted brews and tasty bar bites. Outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds drop their surfboards and bikes for a seat at Sunset Reservoir Brewing Company. Finally, we journey to San Francisco’s Financial District for a turn-of-the-century-inspired American tavern experience. Tyler Florence’s famously flaky popovers and fried chicken satisfy travelers and locals alike at Wayfare Tavern.
Host Leslie Sbrocco and guests on the set of season 15 episode 20. (Maya Wise/KQED)
Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine (Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)
My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the host of Check, Please! Bay Area. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.
Dopff & Irion Brut Rosé Crémant d’Alsace, France, $20 If you love pink sparkling wine like I do, you will want to scoop up bottles of this beautiful bubbly. Hailing from the Alsace region of France, it’s NOT Champagne rather a French style of sparkling called Crémant. This dry, pale-garnet hued wine is crafted with Pinot Noir grapes that showcase delicate red berry fruitiness. It’s a very well-priced fizz that will take you from A to D to D (that’s Appetizers through Dinner and Dessert) with ease.
2018 Raeburn Chardonnay Russian River Valley, California, $18 A superbly balanced Chardonnay that wraps a crisp core with a creamy texture. Juicy aromas and succulent stone fruit flavors are supported by zesty acidity from grapes grown in the cool Russian River Valley. With barrel fermentation and sur lie ageing layering on lightly-lush complexity, this affordable white is a must buy worth twice the price.
2016 Primrose Primitivo Solano County-Green Valley, California, $40 Primitivo is Zinfandel with what I like to call an “Italian soul.” This California-grown version of southern Italy’s famed grape variety (genetically identical to Zinfandel), is lush and spicy with a richness tempered by earthy notes. Whip up a bowl of pasta with long-simmered meat sauce and uncork this stylish red.
Benham’s Sonoma Dry Gin California, $35 Gin is a spirit with personality. Each one is a blend of botanicals that impart unique character. This upcoming-star bottling from founder Derek Benham, uses local Sonoma County ingredients such as Meyer lemon and Buddha hand citrus, combined with exotic coriander seed, cardamom, peppermint and juniper berries to take the ‘London Dry’ style to a deliciously new level. As a drinker of gin on a regular basis, Benham’s is my new favorite.
Wine and spirits guests drank on the set of season 15 episode 20. (Maya Wise/KQED)
Thirsty for more beverage advice? You can find more of my wine, beer and spirits tips for you here.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Curry Up Now, Falafel Stop, Nick’s On Grand
Aug 13, 2020
This week, it’s all plant-based plates for our vegetarian guests! In San Francisco’s Mission District, Curry Up Now dishes out fast-casual Indian street food in funky packages: fried ravioli, sexy fries, and loaded burritos. Then, we devour fried falafel and freshly baked pita made from imported Israeli dough at Sunnyvale’s Falafel Stop. Finally, in South San Francisco, sisig, lumpia, and other Filipino classics are given the meatless treatment at Nick’s On Grand.
Host Leslie Sbrocco and guests on the set of season 15 episode 14. (Olivia Won/KQED)
Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine (Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)
My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the host of Check, Please! Bay Area. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.
2018 Umani Ronchi Pecorino ‘Vellodoro’ Terre di Chieti IGT Abruzzo, Italy, $17 I’m a fan of Italian white wines – especially those made with obscure grapes like Pecorino. The name of the variety refers to the “grape of the sheep” because it traditionally comes from areas in central Italy where sheep-farming and agriculture dominate. Pecorino (yes, there is a sheep’s milk cheese with the same name) is a deliciously crisp, high acid wine that still carries roundness and weight on the palate. The Vellodoro is one of the best white wines I’ve sipped all year long.
Frank Family Vineyards ‘Rouge’ Sparkling Wine Carneros, California, $55 Sparkling red wines have a rich history, but they’re enjoying a renaissance of sorts with examples from around the globe. This one from bubbly superstar, Frank Family Vineyards, is deep ruby in color with succulent, layered flavors. Made in the traditional method from a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with the intense color and dark-berry character coming from Petite Sirah grapes, it’s a unique fizz that will surprise and delight. Try it alongside dark chocolate raspberry tart or a selection of cheeses served with plum jam. Deliciously decadent.
Jardesca Red Apertiva Sonoma County, California, $35 Aperitifs are classic before-dinner sippers in Europe, but the tradition is just developing here. This delicious drink falls somewhere between a wine and a spirit in terms of richness and alcohol levels. Jardesca Red Aperitiva blends three different California red wines with Zinfandel as the main variety. It’s then fortified with Eau de Vie and soaked with a selection of ten botanicals such as ginger, tangerine and cardamom. I like to drink it simply poured over ice with a twist of lemon, but it’s also stellar with a splash of soda or tonic. Red AND refreshing!
2018 Raeburn Pinot Noir Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, $22 As a Pinot Noir lover, I’m always on the hunt for affordable treasures. The Raeburn is one of them. The name refers to an Olde English saying meaning “the river where one goes to drink.” The river that influences these wines is the Russian River. Warm days and cool coastal breezes combine to get Pinot Noir fruit growing there ripe yet maintain its vibrancy. This wine captures the best of the grapes and drapes them with a touch of new oak barrel ageing to keep balance and elegance in the final wine.
2017 Silver Ghost Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, California, $40 For car and wine aficiandos, this is a bottle to seek out. The founder of Silver Ghost, Weston Eidson, has a deep family history with world-famous automobiles and wanted to honor that background through wine. This Cabernet bottling is a nod to the 1909 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost – a family favorite. Hailing from Napa Valley, it’s a classic style with complexity, structure and lushly intense dark fruit notes. It will age beautifully for years, but with such a silky texture is ready to uncork and enjoy now.
Wine and spirits guests drank on the set of season 15 episode 14. (Olivia Won/KQED)
Thirsty for more beverage advice? You can find more of my wine, beer and spirits tips for you here.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Il Casaro Pizzeria & Mozzarella Bar, Soba Ichi
Aug 06, 2020
First, let’s take a stroll through North Beach for Neapolitan pizza at Il Casaro Pizzeria & Mozzarella Bar, which translates to “cheese maker” in Italian. Then, we may have died and gone to noodle heaven at Soba Ichi, where handcrafted soba noodles are made onsite with traditional practices.
Host Leslie Sbrocco and guests on the set of season 15 episode 19. (Olivia Won/KQED)
Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine (Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)
My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the host of Check, Please! Bay Area. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.
Conte Collalto Brut ‘San Salvatore’ Millesimato Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Italy, $11 What a fantastic deal! If you are a Prosecco fan (and let’s face it…who isn’t?) this is a sparkler you’ll want to purchase by the case. Light, refreshing and crafted in a dry style, it hails from the steep, hilly region of northeastern Italy called Conegliano Valdobbiadene. Anchored by two towns of the same names, it’s an historic wine area blanketed with vineyards planted primarily to Glera grape vines. This version from Collalto is named for an historic castle – San Salvatore — located on the highest part of the vineyard. When you see the words “Prosecco Superiore” is signifies quality and affordability rolled into one bottle.
2018 The Larsen Projekt Grenache Rosé Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma, California, $22 Attention lovers of pink wine…this is one you’ll want to seek OUT and sip IN. I adore the Grenache-based wines of The Larsen Projekt, which is a boutique Sonoma producer. This garnet-hued rosé is succulent and crisp with enough freshness and complexity to pair poolside and tableside. The wine’s label depicts a time the owners went to an outdoor café in Provence, France, and saw buckets of rosé sitting in a nearby the fountain ready to pour for thirsty diners. Hmm…I think I need one of those fountains in my backyard.
2017 Trinity Hill ‘Gimblett Gravels’ Chardonnay Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, $40 New Zealand is known for Sauvignon Blanc, but for those who delve into the small country’s great wines know it’s also a place for world-class reds and Chardonnay. Hawkes Bay is on the north island (two islands comprise the country) and is a spot that makes famed Bordeaux blends and Syrah. It’s also home to this full-bodied Chardonnay from one of New Zealand’s star producers, Trinity Hill. The vines come from a uniquely stony area called the Gimblett Gravels. This imparts taut minerality to the wine, which is wrapped with ripe fruit flavors, exotic aromas and a lush texture. I call it finely focused yet fleshy – the best of both Chardonnay worlds.
2017 Scattered Peaks Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, California $40 An impressive Napa Cabernet at an impressively affordable price. Winemaker Joel Aiken is a California icon formerly of legendary Cab house, Beaulieu Vineyard, whose deft touch help create stylish classics. He and owner, Derek Benham, have sourced fruit from top Napa Valley areas to blend into this beautifully designed wine. It’s structured and plush with dark fruit intensity and supple tannins. Built to be cellar worthy and age for a decade or more, it’s also delicious to drink now alongside a simple grilled steak. Perfection.
Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey Small Batch Rye Ireland, $35 Whiskey fans, take note. Versions from Ireland are undergoing a renaissance and this spirit brings to life the motto “what’s old is new again.” The Kilbeggan Distillery began producing whiskey in 1757 then changed hands and closed for a time but is now back and stronger than ever under the ownership of Suntory. Their Rye is crafted with a centuries-old recipe that uses 30 percent of the spicy grain in the mash bill. Though that’s less than in typical American versions, it still sports rye’s telltale toe-curling spiciness coupled with hint of ginger and orange zest wrapped in a silky texture. It falls on the lighter, elegant side of the whiskey scale as opposed to the rich, sweet styles of Bourbon whiskeys. Take a trip to the Emerald Isle in a glass.
Wine and spirits guests drank on the set of season 15 episode 19. (Olivia Won/KQED)
Thirsty for more beverage advice? You can find more of my wine, beer and spirits tips for you here.
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids reviews: Mersea, Bevri
Jul 31, 2020
Check, Please! Bay Area KIDS Special: For our first course, an avid reader strikes gold with fresh bites and stunning views at Treasure Island’s Mersea. Next up, a tennis champ hits an ace with rich khinkali and khachapuri at Bevri, Palo Alto’s first Georgian restaurant.
Host Leslie Sbrocco and guests on the set of season 15 episode 18. (Maya Wise/KQED)
In the Tenderloin, Ethiopian cuisine shines in the orange oasis of San Francisco’s Tadu Ethiopian Kitchen. Across the Bay in Alameda, Afghan and Mediterranean flavors combine into unique delights at Angela’s Kitchen. Finally, two born and raised South Bay chefs deliver a rotating farm-to-table menu at Braise in San Jose’s Willow Glen neighborhood.
Host Leslie Sbrocco and guests on the set of season 15 episode 17. (Olivia Won/KQED)
Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine (Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)
My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the host of Check, Please! Bay Area. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.
Olema Brut Rosé Crémant de Loire, France, $25 A light and lovely sparkling wine that will make summer sipping a joy. This is not Champagne, rather a bubbly from the Loire Valley of France called Crémant. Crafted with mostly red Cabernet Franc grapes, it’s a dry-styled fizz with red-berry fruitiness making it ideal to serve before, during and after any meal.
2018 B.R. Cohn Sauvignon Blanc Sonoma County, California, $17 B.R. Cohn’s Silver Label is consistently one of the best values in California Sauvignon Blanc. It’s a wine that looks and tastes like it should cost twice the price. This bottling is crisp and juicy with citrusy freshness. Try it with spicy Thai takeout or cooked-at-home vegetable pasta topped with lemon-infused olive oil. It’s also a perfect wine for simply enjoying in your patio lounge chair.
2017 Argyle ‘Nuthouse’ Chardonnay Eola-Amity Hills, Oregon, $45 Argyle is an iconic winery from Oregon having established itself in 1987 as a pioneer in sparkling wine. They also craft classic styles of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This bottling is part of their Master Series blending two select blocks of Chardonnay from their Lone Star Vineyard. It showcases a core of minerality wrapped in succulent fruit then layered with richness from barrel fermentation. A balanced beauty.
2014 Futa Cabernet Sauvignon Colchagua Valley, Chile, $65 As a long-time fan of the wines of Viñedos Calcu from Chile, I tend to cover their affordably delicious bottlings, which always over-deliver in quality. This wine, however, is the peak of their offerings and deserves a place in any wine lover’s cellar. The stunning label brings to life the meaning of the word Futa, which is “big and magnificent” in the indigenous Chilean Mapuche language. The complex Cabernet Sauvignon is structured and built to age beautifully, but it also offers a lush texture making it ready to drink now. A wine to seek out as you explore the world of world-class Cabernet Sauvignon.
2016 Silverado Vineyards ‘GEO’ Cabernet Sauvignon Coombsville, Napa Valley, California, $75 Silverado Vineyards has always been one of my Napa Valley favorites. With a rich history spanning nearly 40 years, the family-owned winery produces classic wines with great care. This collectible bottling is a pinnacle for Silverado as it’s made with 100 percent Cabernet Sauvignon from their heralded Mt. George Vineyard. Named for the Greek word for Earth (and also a playful nickname for George), it’s powerful and concentrated with balanced plushness. A gorgeous Cab to uncork now and pair alongside a grilled filet mignon, or age for a few more years and be rewarded with elegant intensity.
O. Vine Red Wine Essence Gently Sparkling Water, $5 A fun way to imbibe and refresh without the alcohol of wine. This drink is berry-scented sparkling water that captures the fruitiness of red wine grapes like Merlot and Syrah. It’s delicious by itself, but I use it as a cocktail mixer poured over a splash of vodka on ice, too.
Wine and spirits guests drank on the set of season 15 episode 17. (Olivia Won/KQED)
Thirsty for more beverage advice? You can find more of my wine, beer and spirits tips for you here.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Locanda Ravello, Café Umami, Main Street Kitchen
Jul 17, 2020
This week, we celebrate teachers with three teacher guests! First up, the flavors of the Amalfi coast bloom at a cozy pizzeria in Danville: Locanda Ravello. Next, Oakland’s Cafe Umami is the perfect spot for nourishing grain bowls crafted by a former microbiologist and brimming with fermented flavor. The final course: seasonal and sophisticated offerings at Walnut Creek’s welcoming Main Street Kitchen.
Host Leslie Sbrocco and guests on the set of season 15 episode 16. (Maya Wise/KQED)
Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine (Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)
My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the host of Check, Please! Bay Area. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.
Maison Bruno Paillard ‘Première Cuvée’ Champagne France, $45 The style of Bruno Paillard captures the elegance and complexity of world-class Champagne. It’s about the assemblage with this producer. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier grapes from more than 30 Cru vineyards and more than 25 vintages are blended to create this stylishly dry, deliciously layered sparkling. Open the bottle for a splurge night with shellfish, or splurge on yourself and simply pour a glass to savor.
2018 Tornatore Etna Bianco Sicily, Italy, $30 If you haven’t explored wines made in Sicily, this is a white to seek out. Hailing from the eastern side of the island in the shadow of the volcanic Mt. Etna, it’s made with a local white grape variety named Carricante and crafted in stainless steel to maintain its citrusy freshness. Pair it with anything fresh from the sea or garden. A unique wine with Sicilian flair.
2018 Landform Pinot Noir Willamette Valley, Oregon, $25 The name of this wine tells the story. It’s all about the ground as the Grounded Wine Company’s focus is on showcasing a sense of place in each glass. Owner, Josh Phelps, grew up in a family dedicated to wine. His Landform Pinot Noir brings the essence of Oregon’s Willamette Valley to life. It’s sophisticated yet fun with bright red fruit notes shining through. Sure…it’s great with food, but just sip it on your porch with a view of the sunset for an ideal pairing.
2016 Adobe Road Winery ‘The 24’ Red Blend Sonoma County, California, $66 In my hometown of Petaluma, California is a place where wine is celebrated and enjoyed. The Adobe Road Winery is the destination, but their wines are the journey. This Rhone-style blend is Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre and is spicy and rich. The winery’s roots are in the car racing world and the label pays homage to Rolex, which is the timekeeper for famed car races.
Bodega Gonzalez Byass ‘La Copa’ Vermouth, Extra Seco Spain, $25 Vermouth is an underappreciated yet historic wine style. It can be red or white, dry or sweet, but it’s always delicious. Fortified wine is aromatized with botanicals from flowers to roots and spices, making for a soothing, satisfying sip. It’s certainly delicious in cocktails, but I enjoy styles like this alone as a pre-dinner drink. From the famous Spanish Sherry producer, González Byass, La Copa is crafted from a family recipe dating to 1896.
Wine and spirits guests drank on the set of season 15 episode 16. (Maya Wise/KQED)
Thirsty for more beverage advice? You can find more of my wine, beer and spirits tips for you here.
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids reviews: Sweet T’s Restaurant + Bar, La Note Restaurant, Magnolia Street Wine Lounge & Kitchen
Jul 10, 2020
Check, Please! Bay Area KIDS Special: It’s time for another trip to the kid’s table! Up north in Windsor, a programming whiz kid savors the hallmarks of Southern comfort food at Sweet T’s Restaurant + Bar. Next, a second-generation Check, Please! guest reviews his Berkeley spot that’s been serving French brunch for the past two decades: La Note Restaurant. Finally, after competitive swim meets, there’s nothing a young swimmer would rather eat than creative soul food blending Cajun and Asian flavors at Oakland’s Magnolia Street Wine Lounge & Kitchen.
Host Leslie Sbrocco and guests on the set of season 15 episode 15. (Maya Wise/KQED)
From Season 13, Berkeley’s La Marcha Tapas is a festive ode to Spanish Nightlife, where Taberna classics are given a distinct California twist. Next, from Season 12, it’s off to The Brazen Head in San Francisco, an old-school neighborhood bar that serves nothin’-fancy pub grub late into the night. Finally, from Season 11, experimental dishes blossom from a chef’s poetic inspiration at Atelier Crenn.
Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine (Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)
My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the host of Check, Please! Bay Area. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.
2019 Apaltagua Reserva Carmenere Rosé Maule Valley, Chile, $12 This zesty pink from Chile is one I highly recommend every year around this time. It’s ideal for summer sipping with its pale-rose hue, pink grapefruit juiciness, and affordable price tag. A dry rosé made primarily from Chile’s signature red grape, Carmenere, with a dash of Syrah, it’s crisp, succulent and goes down easy. It’s also pretty to look at from the label to the wine. Pair alongside anything casual eaten al fresco from grilled fish to chips and salsa.
2019 Mettler Family Vineyards Albariño Lodi, California, $20 Though Mettler is a historic grape-growing family in California, one of their newest releases is made with a grape variety that hails from Spain. Albariño is known in western Spain’s Galicia region for producing crisp yet complex whites. In California there are only a few hundred acres planted. Mettler’s version is one of the best. Crisp, aromatic and still sporting a rich texture, it’s a wine to pour in place of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. Salud!
2017 La Crema Chardonnay Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, $30 La Crema is a Chardonnay and Pinot Noir specialist. Though crafting numerous versions of both varieties from various wine-growing regions, this Chardonnay is my favorite. It captures both richness coming from oak barrel fermentation and aging, but with a core of citrus-scented minerality and freshness to balance. It’s an excellent choice to serve as a cocktail on its own, but with food it shines. Scallops, lobster in butter, pasta in cream sauce with mushrooms and soft cheeses are all ideal partners to this elegant pour. (2018 is the current vintage)
2017 Mettler Family Vineyards Petite Sirah Lodi, California, $25 When you want a powerful, jammy red look no further than Petite Sirah…it’s anything BUT petite. This red from the lauded grape-growing Mettler family, is unapologetically lush and saturated with dark fruit flavors. It ends with a kick of black pepper notes on the finish that keeps the full-bodied fruitiness in check. Grab a rack of ribs and settle in with a glass of this wine for a decadent night.
2017 Three Finger Jack ‘East Side Ridge’ Cabernet Sauvignon Lodi, California $22 What a fun wine. The appealing bottle is what first catches your eye as its shape harkens to another era. It’s named for an outlaw, Three Finger Jack, who roamed California during the Gold Rush. Crafted from mostly Cabernet Sauvignon accented by Petite Sirah, Malbec and Merlot, it’s an offbeat blend with a bold taste. Hearty, spicy, full-bodied and ultra-smooth, you can saddle up next to a steak, pour yourself a glass, and toast the old days.
Wine and spirits guests drank recommended by host Leslie Sbrocco. (Maya Wise/KQED)
Thirsty for more beverage advice? You can find more of my wine, beer and spirits tips for you here.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Anaviv’s Table, Larb Thai Food & Tapas, Mister Jiu’s
Jun 19, 2020
For a meal unlike any other, we start in a Richmond warehouse for a multi-course, farm-to-table communal dining experience at Anaviv’s Table. Then, tucked away in an El Cerrito stripmall, Larb Thai Food & Tapas concocts traditional Issan-style delicacies that are hard to find in the Bay Area. For our final course, we head to Mister Jiu’s in San Francisco’s historic Chinatown, where chef Brandon Jew celebrates Chinese cuisine with seasonal California ingredients and upscale sensibilities.
Host Leslie Sbrocco and guests on the set of season 15 episode 12. (Olivia Won/KQED)
Host Leslie Sbrocco sipping wine (Courtesy of Leslie Sbrocco)
My name is Leslie Sbrocco, and I’m the host of Check, Please! Bay Area. Each week, I’ll share my tasting notes about the wine, beer and spirits the guests and I drank on set during the taping of the show.
Faire La Fête Crémant de Limoux Brut France, $19 For affordably delicious bubbly, seek out Faire La Fête. It’s not Champagne (that only comes from the region of the same name in France), rather it’s French Crémant, which refers to sparkling wines made from around the country. This one happens to hail from the southern part of France where sparkling wine originated in 1531. Faire La Fête basically means having a party, so whether you’re toasting Tuesday night takeout for yourself or a Saturday soirée with friends, raise a glass of this crisp, fruity fizz.
2018 Emeritus Vineyards, ‘Hallberg Blanc’ Pinot Noir Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, $40 Emeritus is a new class of classic when it comes to California Pinot Noir. It was founded in 1999 by famed vintner, Brice Cutrer Jones, after he sold Sonoma-Cutrer and bought Hallberg Ranch. A Pinot Noir master, Jones has crafted a version like no other with the Hallberg Blanc. It represents the best of both worlds because he’s made a white wine from red grapes. How? The juice is gently extracted from the red Pinot Noir grapes with little skin contact, which is the thing that imparts the purple hue to red wines. With melon and peach aromas, a kiss of oak richness and a sultry texture, it’s one of the best wines I’ve sipped all year.
2018 Louis Jadot Mâcon-Villages Chardonnay Burgundy, France, $16 When it comes to well-priced Chardonnay with finesse, you can’t beat this wine from the noted house of Louis Jadot in Burgundy, France. Coming from the south of Burgundy in an area called the Mâconnais, it’s a fruit-driven Chardonnay capturing a streak of minerality from the vineyards’ limestone soils. No oak is used to make the wines making the purity of the citrus and stone fruit shine through. An all-purpose white, you can pair it with a brunch egg casserole, a lunch goat cheese salad or dinner rotisserie chicken.
2016 Spottswoode Estate Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena, Napa Valley, California, $225 Spottswoode ranks among the top wine producers in the world. For four decades they have consistently crafted cellar-worthy, but still enjoyable-upon-release Cabernets that define the best of Napa Valley. Their 2016 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is no exception. Uncorking it now allows for immediate indulgence in this silky red with seamless balance. But, aging for a few years will help the wine open up gracefully exposing even more complexity and elegance. The Novak women – Mary and Beth and Lindy – have been an inspiration to so many in the wine business. Not only did founder Mary Novak pass on her love of Spottswoode to her daughters, Beth and Lindy, who are now in charge, but with quiet strength she helped shape the historic property into the lauded star it is today.
Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin Germany (375 ml), $45 As a gin lover, I appreciate the character of each gin. Much like a beautiful necklace crafted with a variety of stones pieced together to make a whole, gins use various blends of botanicals to achieve their final style. That’s why I adore Monkey 47 Gin. It’s exotic and distinct, but also simply delicious to sip. Made in Germany’s Black Forest using natural spring water from the area, they also utilize local ingredients such as lingonberries, angelica root and acacia flowers. These are only some of the 47 botanicals used, which impart its powerful and magnetic charm. Though it’s a serious spirit, the name and label are an ode to Max the Monkey who dominates the whimsical website and brand story.
Wine and spirits guests drank on the set of season 15 episode 12. (Olivia Won/KQED)
Thirsty for more beverage advice? You can find more of my wine, beer and spirits tips for you here.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: R+D Kitchen, Just For You Cafe, Rice Barn Thai Eatery & Wine Bar
Jun 12, 2020
Bay Area residents review California cuisine in Yountville, beignets in the Dogpatch, and fusion Thai dishes in Vacaville.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Turtle Tower Restaurant, Copper Spoon Cocktails and Kitchen, Papillon Restaurant
Jun 05, 2020
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews Northern Vietnamese phở in San Francisco, a stylish and eclectic menu in Oakland and French classics in Fremont.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Crustacean, Protéa
May 28, 2020
Bay Area residents review Vietnamese-fusion in San Francisco and Puerto Rican plates in Yountville.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Tú Lan Vietnamese Restaurant, Bistro SF Grill, Attraversiamo
May 21, 2020
Bay Area residents review Vietnamese cuisine in the Tenderloin, Balkan dishes in Noe Valley, and farm-to-table plates in Brentwood.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Mahila by Azalina’s, Le Paradis, A Mano
May 15, 2020
Bay Area residents review Mamak Malaysian cuisine in Noe Valley, fresh phở in Hayward, and handmade pasta in Hayes Valley.
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids reviews: Urban Putt, Lai Hong Lounge, Vesta
May 08, 2020
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids chows down on pub-grub in between games of mini-golf in the Mission, classic dim sum shared during family festivities in San Francisco's Chinatown and thin-crust pizzas crisped to perfection in Redwood City.
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids reviews: Kura Revolving Sushi, Agrodolce Osteria, Burmatown
Apr 30, 2020
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids find sushi that arrives speedily via conveyer belt in Cupertino, classic Sicilian plates from a multi-generational Berkeley kitchen, and Burmese-fusion tucked away in a tiny corner of Corte Madera.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Big Country Kitchen, Denica’s Real Food Kitchen, Mama’s Royal Cafe
Apr 24, 2020
Guests go on a breakfast bonanza with deep-fried comforts in Concord, fusion concoctions made with love in Castro Valley, and regal classics in Oakland.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Range Life, Royal Feast, Daughter Thai Kitchen
Apr 17, 2020
Guests feast on farm-to-table cuisine in Livermore, Sichuan and Tanjia platters in Millbrae, and colorful Southern Thai street food in Oakland.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: PLāYT Restaurant & Bar, Xingones, Stonemill Matcha
Apr 10, 2020
A food writer, a food influencer, and a pastry chef sample Southern staples in Hayward, street tacos in Oakland, and matcha cream puffs in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Mourad, Niku Steakhouse, Causwells
Apr 02, 2020
In the Season 15 premiere, stars from San Francisco's Hamilton review modern Moroccan dishes, exquisite steaks, and mouth-watering burgers.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: The Big 4 Restaurant, Pork Store Cafe, Lalime’s
Oct 31, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a historic railroad tycoon spot in San Francisco, a pig-themed breakfast institution in Haight-Ashbury, and quintessential California cuisine in Berkeley.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Zazie, Nick’s Next Door, Absinthe Brasserie & Bar
Oct 24, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a cozy neighborhood bistro in San Francisco, a stylish and elevated comfort food destination in Los Gatos and a polished French brasserie in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids review: Souvla, Zachary’s Chicago Pizza, Sancho’s Taqueria
Oct 22, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids chomps garlicky fries in San Francisco, famous Chicago deep dish pizza in Pleasant Hill, and gigantic burritos in Palo Alto.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Caffe La Scala, Paradiso, Capo’s
Oct 17, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews an eatery with bustling European vibes in Walnut Creek, a stylish and eclectic menu in San Leandro and an Al Capone-inspired restaurant in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids review: Sam’s Chowder House, Sangeetha Restaurant, Gerard’s Paella Y Tapas
Oct 15, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids savors new spots for fresh seafood on the shores of Half Moon Bay, comforting dosas in Sunnyvale, and hearty paella in Santa Rosa.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Alamar Kitchen + Bar, Sabores Del Sur, Pearl 6101
Oct 10, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a spot in Oakland where Mediterranean and Asian influences meet fresh seafood, authentic Chilean cuisine in Walnut Creek and a refined American restaurant with carefully crafted cocktails in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids review: Teni East Kitchen, Estrellita Mexican Bistro, Kabul Afghan Cuisine
Oct 08, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids find a breakfast institution in Mill Valley, authentic Pizza Napoletana in Napa, and a family-owned, neighborhood hangout in Pittsburg.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Bursa, The Italian Homemade Company, Rasa Contemporary Indian
Oct 03, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews an Eastern Mediterranean spot in San Francisco, fresh, house-made pasta in Berkeley and traditional coastal Indian cuisine with a modern twist in Burlingame.
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids review: Dipsea Cafe, Ca’ Momi Osteria, New Mecca Cafe
Oct 01, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids find a breakfast institution in Mill Valley, authentic Pizza Napoletana in Napa, and a family-owned, neighborhood hangout in Pittsburg.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Guiso Latin Fusion, Rich Table, Nyum Bai
Sep 26, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a small Latin fusion eatery with big flavors in Healdsburg, a Californian restaurant in San Francisco with an eclectic and seasonal menu and vibrant Cambodian cuisine in Oakland.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Roosevelt Tamale Parlor, Bravas Bar de Tapas, International Smoke
Sep 19, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a Mexican-inspired menu at a San Francisco institution, delicious Spanish bites in Healdsburg and globally-inspired offerings and Southern comforts back in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Teleferic Barcelona, Sodini’s Trattoria, Jubba Somali Restaurant
Sep 12, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a lively taberna with Basque-inspired pintxos in Walnut Creek, an old-school Italian eatery with friendly neighborhood vibes in San Francisco and home-style East African cooking in San Jose.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Beretta, 7 Mile House, The Cheese Board Collective
Sep 05, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews an impress-your-friends Italian spot in San Francisco, a family (and dog) friendly roadhouse in Brisbane and a worker-owned and operated pizza shop in Berkeley.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Shinmai, Asmara Restaurant, The Ice Cream Bar
Jun 13, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a modern Japanese izakaya in Oakland, a family-owned North East African eatery also in Oakland and a 1930's-style soda fountain in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Cockscomb, Dobbs Ferry Restaurant, Cafe Gabriela
Jun 06, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area finds rustic cuts of meat and upscale pub food both in San Francisco, and sandwiches with a Filipino twist in Oakland.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Honor Kitchen & Cocktails, De La Torre’s Trattoria, Ichi Sushi
May 30, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area finds exceptional cocktails and delightful bar bites in Emeryville, classic Italian ambiance in Pleasanton, and seasonal Japanese cuisine in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Franchettis’, Aburaya, Locanda
May 23, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area finds Italian and German cuisine in Santa Rosa, Japanese fried chicken in Oakland, and a romantic Italian ambiance in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: The Butcher’s Son, Sol Food, Al’s Place
May 16, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area finds vegan delicatessen meats in Berkeley, Puerto Rican cuisine in Marin, and seasonal California produce in San Francisco
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Trattoria da Vittorio, Jin Sho, San Jalisco
May 09, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area finds Calabrian-influenced Italian cuisine in San Francisco, fresh Japanese cuisine in Palo Alto and unforgettable soups back in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Thirsty Bear Brewing Company, Nick’s Cove, Middle East Market
May 02, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area finds a craft brewery dishing flamenco in San Francisco, a historic waterfront retreat in Marshall and a family-owned Persian market in Berkeley.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Z & Y Restaurant, Pausa, Souley Vegan
Apr 25, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area finds a hot Sichuan restaurant in San Francisco, a laid back Italian bar with plenty of spritzes in San Mateo, and a vegan soul food haven in Oakland.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Madcap, El Toreador, Juanita & Maude
Apr 18, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area finds a market-driven menu in San Anselmo, festive Mexican cuisine in San Francisco, and an intimate neighborhood favorite in Albany.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Dad’s Luncheonette, Marzano, East Bay Spice Company
Apr 11, 2019
Check, Please! Bay Area find a small menu with a large heart in Half Moon Bay, Italian cuisine with Californian flair in Oakland, and a cocktail bar with Indian street food in Berkeley.
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids review: Antipastos, The Veg Hub, Coco’s Ramen
Dec 20, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids find homey Italian food in San Jose, hearty vegan fare in Oakland, and a variety of Japanese ramen and sushi in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids review: Zareen’s, Park Burger, Tu Mero Mole
Dec 13, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids find contemporary Pakistani and Indian cuisine in Palo Alto, rich frosty shakes in Oakland, and authentic Pueblan cuisine in San Jose.
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids review: Minato Japanese Restaurant, Tapsilog Bistro, Giorgio’s Pizzeria
Dec 06, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids review a Japanese restaurant in San Jose where the kids' meal comes with a prize, authentic Filipino flavors in Campbell, and a pizzeria in San Francisco that's been around for generations.
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids review: Art’s Cafe, Perle Wine Bar, Marin Joe’s
Nov 29, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area Kids review a local institution in San Francisco celebrating 30 years, a sophisticated wine bar in Oakland, and Italian comfort food in Corte Madera.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Maykadeh Restaurant, 1601 Bar & Kitchen, Poesia
Nov 22, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews authentic Persian cuisine, Sri Lankan food meets French technique and cozy Italian fare all in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Marnee Thai Restaurant, The Cook and Her Farmer, Ristorante Milano
Nov 15, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews authentic Thai street food in San Francisco, community-centric cooking with local ingredients in Oakland, and classic Northern Italian fare in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Scolari’s Good Eats, Le Garage, La Mar
Nov 08, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews comfort food in Alameda, an industrial-chic French bistro in Sausalito, and fresh, unique Peruvian flavors in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: The Little Chihuahua Mexican Restaurant, Dragon Rouge Restaurant, Aslam’s Rasoi
Nov 01, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a crowd-pleasing taqueria in San Francisco, a Vietnamese eatery serving up mom's cooking in Alameda, and a long-established, family-owned Indian spot in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Lers Ros, Sichuan Fortune House, Marinitas Restaurant
Oct 25, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a Thai eatery in San Francisco, spicy Sichuan in Pleasant Hill, and luscious Latin-American cuisine in San Anselmo.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Tommy’s Joynt, Belotti Ristorante e Bottega, 5A5 Steak Lounge
Oct 18, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a local institution in San Francisco, delicious northern Italian fare in Oakland, and a contemporary steakhouse in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Uma Casa Restaurant, Ritu Indian Soul Food, Homeroom Mac + Cheese
Oct 11, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews authentic Portuguese cuisine and seasonal Indian menus in San Francisco, and, last but not least, glorious macaroni and cheese variations in Oakland.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Cuisine of Nepal, Mama Coco Cocina Mexicana Restaurant, The Restaurant at Wente Vineyards
Oct 04, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a Himalayan hotspot in San Francisco, family-friendly Mexican cuisine in Menlo Park, and a spot in Livermore where elegant Californian cuisine is paired with beautiful views.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: All Good Pizza, Kendejah Restaurant, Siam Bay Authentic Thai Cuisine
Sep 27, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews an Italy-meets-Louisiana-meets-backyard BBQ in San Francisco, authentic Liberian cuisine in San Leandro, and a spot in Oakland where you feel like a part of the family.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: 4505 Burgers & BBQ, Ramen Gaijin, Eight Tables by George Chen
Sep 20, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a smoked meats heaven in San Francisco's NoPa, a Japanese pub in Sebastopol, and an opulent 1930’s Shanghai dining experience back in San Francisco's North Beach.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Noe Valley Bakery, Athena Grill, Avatar’s Restaurant
Sep 13, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a mom-and-pop bakery in San Francisco's Noe Valley, a Greek restaurant in Santa Clara, and an eatery mixing up Indian, Punjabi, and Mexican flavors in Sausalito.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Taurinus Brazilian Steakhouse, Ba-Bite, Finn Town Tavern
Aug 02, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a Brazilian Steakhouse in San Jose, an Israeli restaurant in Oakland, and a whimsical cocktail spot in San Francisco's Castro.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Agave Uptown, Sorella Caffe, One Market Restaurant
Jul 26, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a Mexican eatery in Oakland specializing in Mezcal and mole, a family-friendly spot in Fairfax serving up rustic pastas, and a pioneer in farm-to-table cooking in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Acacia House by Chris Cosentino, Iyasare, Franciscan Crab Restaurant
Jul 19, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a Top Chef Master's newest restaurant in St. Helena, elevated Japanese comfort food in Berkeley, and a Fisherman's Wharf mainstay for more than sixty years.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Sutro’s at the Cliff House, El Coqui Puerto Rican Cuisine
Jul 12, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews only two restaurants this time; a historic San Francisco spot with stunning sunsets, classic cocktails and elegant cuisine and an eatery in Santa Rosa serving up Puerto Rican cuisine.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin’ BBQ, RÊVE, Fiorella
May 24, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a spot serving up bubbles, wine and southern smoked ribs in Napa, a bistro offering Parisian classics in Lafayette, and a hip Italian eatery with wood-fired pizzas in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Buck’s of Woodside, Noodles Pho Me, Gardenias
May 17, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a Silicon Valley eatery serving Americana cuisine, a noodle-centric spot preparing Laotian-style fare in San Leandro, and a restaurant in SF's Fillmore specializing in New American cuisine.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: La Marcha Tapas Bar, Arun Thai, Copper Spoon Cocktails & Kitchen
May 10, 2018
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a Spanish spot in Berkeley, a Southeast Asian restaurant in Novato, an eatery serving up California cuisine in Oakland.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Rocco’s Cafe, Maybeck’s, Brenda’s French Soul Food
May 03, 2018
The second episode of season 13 reviews three San Francisco restaurants -- an Italian spot in SOMA, a restaurant in the Marina with Italian-inspired new American cuisine, and an eatery in the Tenderloin with Creole-influenced dishes.
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 13 Premiere reviews: Speisekammer, Kate’s Kitchen, ADEGA
Apr 26, 2018
The premiere episode of Season 13 reviews a German restaurant in Alameda, a breakfast and Southern-style comfort food spot in San Francisco and a Michelin-starred destination serving Portuguese cuisine in San Jose.
Check, Please! Bay Area: L’Ardoise Bistro, Della Santina Trattoria, Perbacco
Nov 23, 2017
This season 12 episode 14 revisits some old favorite spots from previous seasons of Check, Please! Bay Area. Reviewed: a classic French bistro in San Francisco, an Italian trattoria in Sonoma, and a restaurant serving up the cuisine of Piemonte and Liguria in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Nopa, Mua, La Costanera
Nov 16, 2017
This season 12 episode 13 revisits some old favorite spots from previous seasons of Check, Please! Bay Area. Reviewed are: a hip, late-night restaurant in San Francisco; a place in Oakland to experience live DJs, an internationally inspired menu and crave-worthy cocktails; and a restaurant in Montara that serves up contemporary Peruvian cuisine and has ocean-front views.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Flea Street Cafe, Metro Lafayette, Marin Sun Farms
Nov 09, 2017
This season 12 episode 12 revisits some old favorite spots from previous seasons of Check, Please! Bay Area. Reviewed are: a spot in Menlo Park that embraces fresh Californian cuisine produced from local, organic ingredients; a restaurant in Lafayette with Californian-French menu; and a combination farm outlet, butcher shop and restaurant celebrating the pasture-to-plate philosophy in Pt. Reyes.
Check, Please! Bay Area: Mandalay, Back A Yard Caribbean American Grill, Pho Vi Hoa
Nov 02, 2017
This season 12 episode 11 revisits some old favorite spots from previous seasons of Check, Please! Bay Area. Reviewed are: Burmese dishes at Mandalay in San Francisco, Caribbean fare at Back A Yard Caribbean American Grill in Menlo Park, and classic Vietnamese specialties at Pho Vi Hoa in Los Altos.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Mingalaba Restaurant, The Brazen Head, āina
Oct 19, 2017
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews Burmese cuisine in Burlingame, pub food in SF's Cow Hollow, and Hawaiian fare in SF's Dogpatch.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Los Arquitos Restaurant, Lavash Restaurant, Seven Hills
Oct 12, 2017
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a spot serving traditional Mexican fare in Vallejo, a San Francisco restaurant offering classic Persian flavors, and we step back to a previous episode to revisit the Italian flair at an eatery in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: CALA, Moss Beach Distillery, Rocker Oysterfeller’s Kitchen + Saloon
Oct 05, 2017
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: a restaurant with a mission serving elevated Mexican cuisine in San Francisco; a spot in San Mateo County offering seafood, views and otherworldly cocktails; and a place reminiscent of the Wild West in Valley Ford serving up oysters and southern comfort cuisine.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Rusty’s Southern, Jupiter, Glen Ellen Star
Sep 28, 2017
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: a southern-style restaurant in San Francisco's Tenderloin; a spot serving up more than just pizza and beer with outdoor dining and a fire-pit; and a restaurant creating elegant wood-fired dishes in Glen Ellen.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Waterfront Pizza & Mediterranean Restaurant, Saul’s Restaurant & Delicatessen, Lolinda
Sep 21, 2017
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a restaurant serving up pizza and Mediterranean food in Foster City, a Jewish deli in Berkeley, and a San Francisco spot that offers up an abundance of meat from a wood-fired oven.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Martins West Pub, Red Tavern, August (1) Five
Sep 14, 2017
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a Scottish-themed farm-to-table eatery in Redwood City, a family-gathering place with hearty portions of Russian cuisine in San Francisco, and a SF restaurant with a contemporary twist on Indian fare and inventive California cocktails.
Check, Please! Bay Area Casual Spots: Guerilla Cafe, Buddy’s Bites & Brews, Luka’s Taproom & Lounge
Jun 15, 2017
Whether you’re looking for a lazy Sunday or a place to unwind, you’ll find the comforts of casual dining at these restaurants.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Jack’s Prime Burgers & Shakes, Posada, Noodle Theory Provisions
Jun 08, 2017
Check, Please! Bay Area reviewed a modern-day diner in San Mateo that serves Angus beef burgers, organic milkshakes and craft microbrews; a restaurant serving Southwestern cuisine in Livermore, and an Asian-centric eatery in Oakland with a contemporary-Californian twist and cocktails.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Bistro Don Giovanni, El Molino Central, 1760
Jun 01, 2017
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a restaurant serving traditional Italian cuisine in Napa, an award-winning roadside eatery in Sonoma, and a spot providing ingredient-driven small plates along with artisanal wines and cocktails in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 12 Reviews: Monkey King Pub and Grub, Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch, Grand Lake Kitchen
May 25, 2017
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a spot in Alameda serving Asian fusion dishes, a farm-to-table restaurant in St Helena and an upscale diner-deli in Oakland.
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 12 reviews: Jannah-Baghdad by the Bay, Kin Khao, El Aguila Mexican Cuisine
May 18, 2017
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews an Iraqi restaurant in San Francisco, a spot serving Thai home-style cooking in San Francisco, and an eatery offering up farm-to-table freshness combined with Southern Mexican cuisine in Pleasant Hill.
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 12 reviews: Miss Ollie’s, Mama Papa Lithuania Restaurant, Bar Crudo
May 11, 2017
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a spot with Caribbean flavors and excellent fried chicken in Oakland, a cozy Lithuanian Restaurant in Alameda, and a San Francisco eatery specializing in fresh raw seafood.
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 12 reviews: The Tadich Grill, Slow Hand BBQ, Tay Ho Oakland Restaurant & Bar
May 04, 2017
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a classic surf and turf spot in San Francisco, a down-home BBQ in Pleasant Hill, and an Oakland restaurant serving Vietnamese street food.
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 12 reviews: Farmhouse Kitchen, OVO Tavern & Eatery, Anatolian Kitchen
Apr 27, 2017
Check out whimsical decor and Northern Thai street food in San Francisco; a lively neighborhood sports bar in Oakland; and Kurdish culture, cuisine, and wine in Palo Alto.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Gold Mirror Italian Restaurant, The Plumed Horse, NIDO
Apr 20, 2017
Check out old-school Italian fare in San Francisco, modern cuisine with an amazing wine list and service in Saratoga, and contemporary Mexican cooking at a modern cantina in Oakland.
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 12 Premiere reviews: Myriad Gastropub, Squeeze Inn Hamburgers, Terzo
Apr 14, 2017
Check out globally inspired food and drink at Myriad Gastropub in SF, juicy cheeseburgers at Squeeze Inn Hamburgers in Napa, and Mediterranean flavors at Terzo in SF.
Check, Please! Bay Area Explores Bay Area Cafe Culture
Nov 17, 2016
Restaurants reviewed: Cafe Borrone (Menlo Park), The Yellow Submarine (San Francisco), and Morning Due Cafe (San Francisco).
Check, Please! Bay Area Rediscovers Restaurants Outside the City
Nov 10, 2016
Restaurants reviewed: Marche aux Fleurs (Ross), The Peasant & The Pear (Danville), and Copita Tequileria y Comida (Sausalito)
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Bridges, Blue Line Pizza, Postino
Sep 22, 2016
Dine on Cal Cuisine at the place where Mrs. Doubtfire ate, in the heart of Danville, then tuck into Chicago-style deep dish pizza with a side of beer or cocktails in San Carlos. Lastly, rustic comfort food with an Italian twist is discovered in a beautiful Lafayette hillside setting.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Chaya Brasserie, Marinitas, Seven Hills
Sep 15, 2016
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: a fusion dining-destination with views of the Bay Bridge in San Francisco, a spot with dishes inspired by the flavors of Mexico and Latin America combined with a killer tequila menu in San Anselmo, and Cal-Italian cuisine set among the seven-hills of San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Valette, eatsa, Osso Steakhouse
Jun 16, 2016
Restaurants reviewed: a quintessential wine country eatery in Healdsburg, a fully-automated spot with fresh and healthy vegetarian bowls, delivered via a high-tech cubby in San Francisco, and a place for steak, substantial sides and an amazing wine list in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: El Mono Fresh Flavors of Peru, Rangoon Ruby Burmese Cuisine, The Table
Jun 09, 2016
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a Peruvian restaurant in El Cerrito, a restaurant in San Carlos serving Burmese cuisine, and a spot in San Jose serving modern American cooking and hand-crafted cocktails.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Heartbaker [CLOSED], The Cook and Her Farmer, 1601 Bar & Kitchen
Jun 02, 2016
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: a sweet and savory bakery in San Francisco, a restaurant serving locally-sourced, community-centric cooking in Oakland, and a San Francisco spot offering a contemporary take on Sri Lankan cuisine.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Backdoor Bistro & Wine Bar, Kingdom of Dumpling, John Ash & Co.
May 26, 2016
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a California-casual spot in Vacaville, a San Francisco hole-in-the-wall eatery serving up tongue-burning, steaming dumplings and a Santa Rosa restaurant serving seasonal wine country cuisine.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Flatiron, Shakewell, Firenze By Night
May 19, 2016
The sixth episode of season 11 reviews a family-friendly neighborhood spot for comfort food in San Rafael, a restaurant serving Mediterranean flavors and complex cocktails in Oakland, and an old school Italian restaurant in San Francisco's North Beach.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Gasthaus Leopold’s, Tamarine and Sushi Rapture
May 12, 2016
The fifth episode of Season 11 of Check, Please! Bay Area reviews an Austrian restaurant in San Francisco, a Palo Alto restaurant serving modern Vietnamese cuisine and a cozy Japanese eatery in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Duende, The Dark Horse Inn and Morimoto Napa
May 05, 2016
The fourth episode of Check, Please! Bay Area reviews a Spanish influenced, contemporary hotspot in downtown Oakland; a family-friendly gastro-pub in San Francisco; and a restaurant serving contemporary California-inspired Japanese cuisine in Napa.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Sessions at The Presidio, Doppio Zero Pizzeria Napoletana and Waterbar
Apr 28, 2016
The third episode of season 11 features: Contemporary comfort food accompanied by a great beer selection in San Francisco, authentic Neapolitan pizza in Mountain View and market-fresh oysters and gourmet seafood at the Embarcadero in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: To Bang Korean BBQ, Tina’s Place and Hopscotch
Apr 21, 2016
The second episode of season 11 features: a Korean BBQ in Santa Clara, family-friendly American food in Pinole, and a restaurant in Oakland with hip decor, craft cocktails and American food, with a touch Japanese influence.
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 11 Premiere Reviews: The Hummingbird, Sumika and Orexi
Apr 14, 2016
The premiere episode of season 11 features: a Creole-inspired restaurant in Fairfax, a Japanese restaurant in Los Altos, and a Greek restaurant in San Francisco.
Check, Please! Bay Area Takes You on a Culinary Comfort Food Roadtrip
Oct 29, 2015
Check, Please! Bay Area looks back at restaurants with a flair for the familiar flavors of comfort food. A culinary roadtrip takes you to Central Market in Petaluma, farmerbrown in San Francisco and TrueBurger in Oakland.
Watch Check, Please! Bay Area review: Monsieur Benjamin, Aly’s on Main, Hog Island Oyster Co.
Oct 23, 2015
This episode reviews a Parisian-style bistro in San Francisco, a gathering spot for locals desiring a seasonal, contemporary menu in Redwood City, and a spot serving up the ultimate in fresh and local seafood at the Ferry Building in San Francisco.
Watch Check, Please! Bay Area review: Kingston 11 Cuisine, 31st Union and The Campton Place
Oct 16, 2015
Restaurants reviewed: A Caribbean oasis in Oakland that blends Jamaican and California flavors, a spot preparing simply-prepared fresh-food in sustainable surroundings in San Mateo, and a San Francisco restaurant with a Cal-Indian menu that combines classical French cooking techniques with fresh local ingredients.
Watch Check, Please! Bay Area review: Camber Montclair, Cole’s Chop House, Wise Sons Jewish Deli
Oct 08, 2015
This new episode reviews an Oakland eatery serving a combination of Laotian, Burmese and Pakistani flavors, a steakhouse in Napa and a Jewish deli in San Francisco's Mission district.
Watch Check, Please! Bay Area review: Papillon, Marla Bakery, La Viga Restaurant
Oct 01, 2015
Check, Please! reviews a restaurant with Old World charm serving traditional dishes prepared tableside in Fremont, a bakery that also serves organic breakfasts and brunches in San Francisco, and a restaurant serving contemporary Latin cuisine in Redwood City. Host Leslie Sbrocco shares her wine expertise, discussing the part of wine tasting after sipping.
Watch Check, Please! Bay Area review Lou’s Cafe, Pappo and LaSalette Restaurant
Sep 24, 2015
Check, Please! Bay Area explores a family-run sandwich spot in San Francisco, a bistro committed to fresh and local ingredients in Alameda and a modern Portuguese-style restaurant in Sonoma. Host Leslie Sbrocco shares her wine expertise, answering the question: What is sweetness in wine?
Check, Please! Bay Area “European Adventures” Themed Restaurants
May 21, 2015
Restaurants reviewed: La Foret (San Jose), Vega (San Francisco), Basque Cultural Center (South San Francisco)
Check, Please! Bay Area “Around the World” Themed Episode
May 14, 2015
Restaurants reviewed: Zatar (Berkeley) [CLOSED], China Village (Albany), Walzwerk (San Francisco)
Watch Check, Please! Bay Area review: Oi-C Bowl Chinese Restaurant [CLOSED], Los Moles, Hotel Mac Restaurant
May 07, 2015
Regional Chinese food with a Japanese flair in Walnut Creek, Mexican cuisine in Emeryville and classic comfort food at a historic hotel in Point Richmond
Watch Check, Please! Bay Area review PintxoPote, Red Hill Station and Osmanthus
Apr 30, 2015
Basque cooking in Los Gatos, Seafood in San Francisco's Bernal Heights, Japanese & South Asian cuisine in Oakland
Check, Please! Bay Area reviews: Ristorante Milano, Scolari’s Good Eats, FuseBox
Apr 24, 2015
Northern Italian fare in San Francisco, East Coast classic Big Burgers in Alameda, and Seoul food in West Oakland
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 10 Premiere!
Apr 17, 2015
Restaurants Reviewed: Cosecha (Oakland), Bull Valley Roadhouse (Port Costa), Michael Warring (Vallejo). Host Leslie Sbrocco shares her wine tips about tannins in wine.
Check, Please! Bay Area Revisits Restaurants Serving Southern Food in San Francisco
Oct 23, 2014
Revisit three Southern-style restaurants in SF from previous series: The Front Porch, Memphis Minnie’s Barbeque Joint, Auntie April’s Chicken, Waffles & Soul Food
Check, Please! Bay Area Mom ‘n’ Pop-Themed Restaurant Episode
Oct 16, 2014
Revisit three Mom 'n' Pop restaurants in SF from previous series: The Grubstake, Turk and Larkin Deli, Tanguito Argentinean Grill & Empanadas
Check, Please! Bay Area Mediterranean-Themed Restaurant Episode
Oct 09, 2014
Revisit three Mediterranean restaurants from previous series: Ristorante Ideale (SF), Le Mediterranee (Berkeley), La Ciccia (SF)
Check, Please! Bay Area Asian-Themed Restaurant Episode
Oct 02, 2014
Revisit three Asian restaurants from previous series: Dragon Rouge Restaurant (Alameda), Marnee Thai (SF), Butterfly Restaurant (SF)
Luka’s Taproom, King of Falafel, La Costanera: Check, Please! Bay Area reviews
Jun 20, 2014
Reviewed: Luka's Taproom & Lounge (Oakland), King of Falafel (SF), La Costanera Restaurant (Montara)
Hana, Cocotte, Sakoon: Check, Please! Bay Area reviews
Jun 12, 2014
Reviewed: Hana (Rohnert Park), Cocotte (SF), Sakoon (Mountain View)
Lanna Thai, 20 Spot, Chalet Ticino: Check, Please! Bay Area reviews
Jun 05, 2014
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 5: Episode 2 (502)
May 13, 2010
Restaurants reviewed: Pomelo, deedee's, Farina Focaccia & Cucina Italiana
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 5: Episode 1 (501)
May 04, 2010
Restaurants reviewed: Turk and Larkin Deli, Brown Sugar Kitchen, 2223 Restaurant and Bar
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 4: Episode 9 (409)
May 23, 2009
Check, Please! Bay Area's fourth season episode 9 (#409) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) Joe's of Westlake: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
2) La Mediteranee: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Roy's Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
Check, Please Bay Area Season 4: Episode 8 (408)
May 10, 2009
Check, Please! Bay Area's fourth season episode 8 (#408) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) Hayes Street Grill: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Mama's on Washington Square: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Sahn Maru Korean BBQ: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 4: Episode 7 (407)
May 06, 2009
Check, Please! Bay Area's fourth season episode 7 (#407) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) The Old Clam House: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Gialina: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Mustards Grill: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 4: Episode 6 (406)
Apr 30, 2009
Check, Please! Bay Area's fourth season episode 6 (#406) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) Zeni Ethiopian Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Quinn's Lighthouse Restaurant & Pub: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
3) Acquerello: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 4: Episode 5 (405)
Apr 17, 2009
Check, Please! Bay Area's fourth season episode 5 (#405) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) Indian Palace Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Thanh Long Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Oliveto Café and Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 4: Episode 4 (404)
Apr 10, 2009
Check, Please! Bay Area's fourth season episode 4 (#404) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) Borobudur Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Alegrias Spanish Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Poggio: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 4: Episode 3 (403)
Apr 03, 2009
Check, Please! Bay Area's fourth season episode 3 (#403) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) COCO500: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
2) Crogan's Montclair: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Red Jade: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area Season 4: Episode 2 (402)
Mar 27, 2009
Check, Please! Bay Area's fourth season episode 2 (#402) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) Shanghai Dumpling King: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) farmerbrown: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Caesar's Italian Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 4: Episode 1 (401)
Mar 20, 2009
Check, Please! Bay Area's fourth season episode 1 (#401) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) Mescolanza Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Basque Cultural Center: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
3) Alexander's Steakhouse: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 3: Joyce Goldstein Special (#391)
Nov 07, 2008
Bay Area restaurants profiled:
1) Medjool: | restaurant information | reviews | episode video | [CLOSED]
2) B44: | restaurant information | reviews | episode video |
3) Da Flora: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe | episode video |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 3: Episode 9 (#309)
Oct 31, 2008
Check, Please! Bay Area's third season episode 9 (#309) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) Chez Maman: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Half Moon Bay Brewing Company: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Kirala: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 3: Episode 8 (#308)
Oct 24, 2008
Check, Please! Bay Area's third season episode 8 (#308) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) Le Charm French Bistro: | restaurant information | reviews | [now Mathilde]
2) Vung Tau Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
3) NOPA: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 3: Episode 7 (#307)
Oct 17, 2008
Check, Please! Bay Area's third season episode 7 (#307) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) Casa Orinda: | restaurant information | reviews |recipe |
2) Nick's Crispy Tacos: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Côté Sud: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 3: Episode 6 (#306)
Oct 11, 2008
Check, Please! Bay Area's third season episode 6 (#306) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) Stella Alpina Osteria: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Bette's Oceanview Diner: | restaurant information | reviews |recipe |
3) Chou Chou: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 3: Episode 5 (#305)
Oct 04, 2008
Check, Please! Bay Area's third season episode 5 (#305) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) Anchor Oyster Bar & Seafood Market: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Lalime's Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews |recipe |
3) Indian Aroma: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 3: Episode 4 (#304)
Apr 26, 2008
Check, Please! Bay Area's third season episode 4 (#304) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) Cyrus: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
2) The Yellow Submarine: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) The Slanted Door: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 3: Episode 3 (#303)
Apr 19, 2008
Check, Please! Bay Area's third season episode 3 (#303) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) Capannina: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Angeline's Louisiana Kitchen: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Playground: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 3: Episode 2 (#302)
Apr 12, 2008
Check, Please! Bay Area's third season episode 2 (#302) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) New Kapadokia: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
2) Aperto: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
3) Masa's: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe | [CLOSED]
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 3: Episode 1 (#301)
Apr 04, 2008
Check, Please! Bay Area's third season episode 3 (#301) profiles and reviews these three Bay Area restaurants:
1) Alfred's Steakhouse: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
2) Bacco: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) El Tonayense Taco Truck: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 24 (224)
Dec 20, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Holy Land: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Sodini's Bertolucci's Ristorante: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) B44 Catalan Bistro: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 23 (223)
Dec 14, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Baladie Gourmet Cafe: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Sumi: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
3) Marché Aux Fleurs: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 22 (222)
Nov 16, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Marta's Kitchen at Jay 'N Bee Club: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
2) Central Market: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
3) West Coast Cafe: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 21 (221)
Nov 08, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) La Folie: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
2) Aldo's Ristorante & Bar: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Golden Lotus: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 20 (220)
Nov 02, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Postrio: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
2) Old Port Lobster Shack: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Cleo's Brazilian Steakhouse: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 19 (219)
Oct 26, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Da Lian Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) The Mountain House Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
3) Buca di Beppo: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 18 (218)
Oct 20, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Pauline's Pizza: | restaurant information | reviews | CLOSED
2) Rotee: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
3) La Forêt Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 17 (217)
Oct 13, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) RNM: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe | [CLOSED]
2) Ana Mandara: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe | [CLOSED]
3) The Front Porch: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 16 (216)
Oct 06, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Millennium: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
2) Medjool: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
3) Tropix: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Pat Kuleto Special Episode (294)
Sep 21, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Maria Manso World Cuisine : | restaurant information | reviews | recipe | [CLOSED]
2) Canto do Brasil: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe
3) Sociale: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe1 | recipe 2 |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 15 (215)
Apr 27, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) The Grubstake: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
2) Charanga: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
3) Viognier, The Restaurant at Draeger's: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 14 (214)
Apr 20, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Buckeye Roadhouse: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Canto do Brasil: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe | [now Mina’s Brazilian]
3) Udupi Palace: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 13 (213)
Apr 13, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Sonoma-Meritâge Martini Oyster Bar & Grill: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe | [CLOSED]
2) Cajun Pacific Restaurant & Catering: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
3) House of Prime Rib: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 12 (212)
Apr 06, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Jardinere: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
2) Esperpento: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Trattoria La Siciliana: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 10 (210)
Mar 30, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Pear Street Bistro: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
2) Sociale: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
3) Presidio Bowling Center Grill: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 9 (209)
Mar 23, 2007
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Dona Thomas: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Amber India: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
3) Scala's Bistro: | restaurant information | reviews |
Josh and Leslie Drink Wine
Feb 13, 2007
I'm a fairly regular wine drinker and passed my wine course in culinary school with flying spittoons, so all of Leslie's directions about how to identify, swirl, and taste wines was fine and dandy for the beginners in the viewing audience but what I found really fascinating was the food and wine pairings.
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: DJ Special (292)
Dec 29, 2006
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Cha Cha Cha: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Ninna Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Nob Hill Cafe: | restaurant information | reviews
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Jacques Pépin Special Episode (291)
Dec 22, 2006
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Incanto: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe | [CLOSED]
2) Woodward's Garden: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe 1 | recipe 2 | [CLOSED]
3) Chapeau!: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 11 (211)
Dec 15, 2006
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Mecca SF: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe | [CLOSED]
2) El Jarro: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
3) Maria Manso World Cuisine: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe | [CLOSED]
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 8 (208)
Nov 17, 2006
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Little Star Pizza: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Vignette: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
3) Zatar: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 7 (207)
Nov 10, 2006
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Shalizaar: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
2) South Park Cafe: | restaurant information | reviews
3) Forbes Island: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 6 (206)
Nov 03, 2006
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Pacific Cafe: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
2) China Village: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
3) Chez Nous: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 5 (205)
Oct 27, 2006
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Bill's Place: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Cafe Rouge: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Le Colonial Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 4 (204)
Oct 20, 2006
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Pasta Moon: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
2) Town Hall Restaurant: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
3) Suppenkuche: | restaurant information | reviews |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 3 (203)
Oct 06, 2006
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Miller's East Coast West Deli: | restaurant information | reviews |
2) Picante: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Da Flora: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 2 (202)
Sep 29, 2006
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Hing Lung: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
2) Absinthe: | restaurant information | reviews |
3) Saylor's Landing: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe | [CLOSED]
Check, Please! Bay Area: Season 2: Episode 1 (201)
Sep 22, 2006
Bay Area restaurants profiled and reviewed:
1) Memphis Minnie's Barbeque Joint: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe |
2) Ovation at the Opera: | restaurant information | reviews | [CLOSED]
3) Cafe Gratitude: | restaurant information | reviews | recipe | [CLOSED]
Our TOPPODCAST Picks 
Stay Connected
