Tartine

In the heart of San Francisco's Mission District is a tiny, un-marked space known as Tartine. This busy little cafe and bakery has become one of our favorite places. In fact, we make it a point to take most of our out-of-town guests here to experience first-hand, the tastiness of the freshly-baked goods from this place.

Tartine is located on the corner of 18th & Guerrero.

This tiny sign and the smell of fresh baked goods is the only indication that you are in the right place-it is an unmarked building.

This bakery is known for their morning bun which can only be obtained by the early birds! Depending on how large the crowds are that day, they usually sell out by noon. It definitely is waking up early for!

Even little children are fans of this well-established bakery. The chocolate croissants are reminiscent of what you'd find in a Paris bakery, no joke!

The place is quite small and fills up rather quickly. You'll either need to get your goodies to-go or sit outside on one of the few tables.

Banana Creme Tart-the flaky, chocolate-lined crust compliments the indulgent pastry creme with bananas, a hint of caramel and chocolate shavings. If you're feeling coconut, the coconut creme tart is just as heavenly!

Don't have a sweet tooth? Tartine also carries a few savory treats such as this Croque Monsieur with Turkey. They have a vegetarian option as well which contains a variety of fresh mushrooms.

In the mornings, Tartine specializes in breakfast breads and assorted pastries. Full or half loaves of bread, straight out of the oven, are available for purchase after 5pm on Wednesday-Sunday.

Tartine Bakery

600 Guerrero St.

San Francisco, CA 94110

(415) 487-2600

http://www.tartinebakery.com/index.html

Morocco's

Last month, we celebrated Alli's birthday at Morocco's in downtown San Jose. This cozy restaurant tucked away near a corner of the busy Market Street was the perfect place to indulge in good drinks and flavorful ethnic cuisine. Their family style dinners allowed us to sample an unlimited amount of selected dishes-all of which were very pleasing to the tastebuds! We'll allow the pictures do the talking! : )

The warm and cozy interior of the restaurant welcome both groups and couples alike.

Chicken Briwatts-ground chicken with cinnamon wrapped in phyllo dough, topped with cinnamon & powdered sugar.

Signature Lentil Salad-red onions, cilantro, and chilled green lentils with cumin balsamic vinaigrette.

Spicy Chilled Cucumber Salad-cucumber & red onions in a balsamic chili vinaigrette.

The group, in between courses.

Beef kebabs-sweet and tender kebabs marinated in a sweet/salty sauce.

Beeft Tagine-a true Moroccan specialty.

Imperial Couscous-caramelized onions, garbanzo beans, & ginger white pepper garlic chicken.

Green tea ice cream topped with whipped cream and lavender-caramel.

Briwatts stuffed with almond & honey.

If you ever find yourself in downtown San Jose, Morocco's is a place you will not want to miss. The excellent service and the warm and friendly atmosphere make you feel like you are dining in a restaurant on the rooftop of a five-star hotel. Make sure to call ahead for reservations, especially during peak dinner times and on the weekends! Don't let the hookah bar and sketchy shop next door deter you from experiencing a one-of-a-kind dining adventure at Morocco's! :)

Morocco's

86 N. Market St.

San Jose, CA 95113

(408) 998-1509

http://www.moroccosrestaurant.com/