“Instant access may have changed how and where we shop, but when it comes to what today’s consumers and customers expect, some things never change.”

Flashback to the natural foods heyday of the 1990s and it might seem that the values of conscious food consumers haven’t changed much over the last 30 years. Trusted local, high quality ingredients. Organic choices. A “natural” approach to real foods as opposed to complicated, unknown chemicals. Plant-based protein sources for a mix of nutritional preferences. Artisanal emphasis. Partnerships between local food producers and the community. Family-friendly products brought to market by trusted brands that understood responsible food practices and production.

From a food producer’s perspective, the business challenges of meeting consumer and retailers’ stringent demands also appear similar: ensuring product safety and integrity, reducing the risk of food recalls, navigating labeling concerns, procuring trusted suppliers for quality ingredients and meeting high standards for animal welfare and environmental sustainability

These shared tenets for wholesome living and responsible eating seem awfully similar despite the time difference. So, what’s changed?

Instant Access

A far cry from the “convenience” foods of the past — fewer healthy options that usually sacrificed quality for a quick meal fix — today’s instant access means I can buy organic beef bone broth, fresh salmon and organic micro-greens for dinner tonight on the same app I use to buy replacement chargers for my iPhone and even a bulk bag of dog food if I’m in a crunch. My groceries, likely delivered by an Amazon or Walmart van or even a driverless delivery vehicle, can also be accompanied by a bottle of Quintessa that years ago would’ve required a trip to a local wine merchant. Instant access to high-quality foods are changing the way consumers eat and changing the way the food and beverage industry is evolving to embrace the new “fast food.” It’s been estimated that the number of U.S. adults who order groceries at least once a month with an app will increase by nearly 50 percent this year compared to 2018.

In Store Incentives

How can brick and mortar stores lure customers back into their aisles? To encourage and incentivize in-store purchases, food producers are employing QR codes and scan-and-save options to give consumers instant access to deals that make shopping more interactive. Scannable codes give consumers access to a mobile world of coupons, recipes and traceable sourcing details that increase brand engagement and reward entry.

Food Safety Traceability

We read headlines nearly every day about new food recalls. Two separate chicken nugget recalls right before the Super Bowl led to concerns about the category as a whole and garnered headline news coverage from CNN and the “Today Show.” According to USDA reports, the agency in 2005 handled 53 food recalls, with just one related to extraneous/foreign materials and nine related to undeclared allergens. In 2018, the agency oversaw 125 food recalls, with 23 related to extraneous materials and 26 related to undeclared allergens. Is the food supply less safe? Hardly. Technical innovations, like high sensitivity imaging devices, along with increased training, shared resources and knowledge among industry partners, have significantly increased the ability of producers to detect potential risks before products ever leave the production line.

For those producers who do face recalls? The advent of blockchain technology and increased use of traceable sourcing systems makes it far easier to track down the root cause of potential product issues and supply challenges. Data-based solutions from the farm, transport provider or retailer system allow food producers and regulators to quickly trace risks and ensure that products are effectively removed from the marketplace.

Transparency Watch

Who’s literally watching the farm? Fresh foods producers must prioritize the integrity of the foods they raise for consumption. This includes the land on which they grow vegetables or raise livestock. Even with the popularity of farm-to-table and Slow Food movements, few U.S. consumers have access to the farms where the food they buy is grown. In large part, this limited access is vital for sound biosecurity practices that protect the food supply. Thanks to the proactive marketing and community engagement of many producers who choose to provide real-time footage of farms and food production, consumers have more ways to see agriculture in action. Also, now, more than ever, activists and producers alike are employing drone and AI technology to monitor property and livestock practices. In a visual duel of he-said, she-said, live streaming production and practices simultaneously protect and target food brands online and with media.

Luxe Knows No Bounds

Lack of access for in-demand food and beverage items used to signal luxury: the coveted cult whiskey, the limited-edition vintage, the in-the-know butcher or the farmer’s market friend that would save a bag of squash blossoms or ramps in peak season if you knew when to go. The instant access of today’s consumer grocery e-marketplace has increased our ability to find coveted foodie finds on demand, online or in app. Greater access and increased competition for these items has also allowed us the ability to shop smarter and perhaps more frugally (service fee be darned). But will this instant access replace the emotional connection we crave with the brands we favor and the conscientious people behind them?

Some things never change. The foundation of good public relations remains rooted in consciousness, transparency and brand trust. Voice activated or not, these are the basics that today’s consumers and customers expect now.

The post Have Consumer Food Priorities Changed Since the ’90s? appeared first on Fineman PR.

SIRACHA2GO

Beyonce and Hillary Clinton aren’t the only people who carry hot sauce in their bags (swag). The mini, refillable and portable container for siracha hot sauce is carried at Urban Outfitters, Bed Bath & Beyond, Amazon and on the belt loops of San Franciscans.

STREET FOOD

The popularity (and convenience) of street food has inspired gourmet chef interpretations that now range from dim sum, Vietnamese fusion, carnival fare and shawarma. San Francisco has weekly food truck gatherings, like Off-the-Grid, that attract hundreds of visitors to the variety of foods offered, as well as the fast-casual nature in which they are served.

INSTAGRAM-WORTHY DISHES

Foodies snapping shots of their “Instagram-worthy” dishes didn’t start in 2018, but restaurants creating menu items based on visual creativity and desire for social media attention is a recent phenomenon. In fact, Starbuck’s created a unicorn drink specifically for social media fanfare.

Creating visual experiences for the purpose of capturing free social media attention and buzz is all the rage with SF restaurants and food purveyors (see the Museum of Ice Cream) – especially when they emphasize color.

GUT-HEALTHY FARE

With diet trends emphasizing healthy-eating, it’s not surprising that gut-healthy foods have made their home in the SF food scene. Recipes that incorporate kimchi, apple cider vinegar, tempeh and miso are seeing a considerable spike in popularity at local restaurants.

Local Picks: bone broth from Belcampo Meat Company and the tempeh chorizo bowl from Gracias Madre.

ANCIENT GRAINS

Apparently, Quinoa is no longer the “it girl” of the grain world. SF-based chefs have been exploring a variety of old-world grains to spice up their menus. From farro to kamut, spelt to bulgur, chef-enthusiasts are reinventing ways to incorporate these healthy ingredients.

Local Pick: the lunchtime ancient grain bowl from Eatsa. Short on time? You can place your order from your phone and pick it up from a local kiosk.

GHEE 

Gone are the days where diet-goers and health-fanatics fear fat. Fat is back in a big way and ghee is the staple cooking oil for a new generation of San Franciscans. Ghee is similar to clarified butter, but is simmered longer for enhanced flavor, has a higher smoke point and lacks casein. It’s also loaded with nutrients, including CLA, vitamin E and butyric acid.

Local Picks: Lotus SF Indian cuisine uses organic ghee in their cooking and Rainbow Grocery cooperative has a plethora of ghee options to take home.

AIR FRYING

Using up to 75% less fat than a standard fryer, the air fryer made waves with food-fanatics and health-conscious residents alike by allowing people to enjoy fried foods in a healthier way. Local die-hard fans recommend buying your own and experimenting, while the cooking-challenged head to San Tung’s for their famous dry-fried chicken wings.

HOUSE-MADE CONDIMENTS

Unique, house-made condiments are popping up in SF restaurants as a way to add authentic flare and variety, while avoiding unwanted ingredients and sugars included in traditional bottled condiments.

Local Picks: Hot Sauce and Panko for out-of-this-world spice and 4505 Meats for special BBQ sauce and non-traditional condiments.

KETO DIET

Knocking the Paleo Diet out of first place – with similar restrictions – the Keto Diet has influenced San Francisco’s food scene more than any other diet trend within the last few years. The Keto Diet’s high-protein, high-fat, low-carb way of eating has people searching for local lunch hotspots for a quick, satisfying fix.

Local Picks: RT Rotisserie for simple and savory chicken with a side of cauliflower or MEALPRO for customized home-delivery meals.

CAULIFLOWER-CARB SUBSTITUTES

Dubbed the new “kale replacement,” the versatility of cauliflower makes it an easy carb stand-in. From riced to oven-baked, spiced to creamed, there are a number of options for picky eaters to choose from, including pizza crusts and gnocchi. Variations have sprouted up in restaurants and supermarkets all over the Bay Area.

Local Picks: Locals shop Trader Joe’s for their riced cauliflower or Pizzeria Delfina for their spicy cauliflower dish.

POP-UPS

Limited edition restaurants, temporary locations, limited menus and intimate experiences with top chefs have taken over the SF food scene. Whether eating a meal completely in the dark, a supper club in a secret location or a dinner made entirely of food waste (yes, you read that right), pop-ups are still going strong- and are more creative than ever.

Local Picks: Ultra fancy Sorrel or Friends with Benedicts for a lazy Sunday brunch.

CANNED WINE

Following its cousin – the craft beer – canned wines are all the rage with San Francisco millennials. They’re convenient, easily transportable and taste just as good as the bottled variety (so they claim). Wine brands have embraced the fun by creating playful labelling for these picnic-friendly beverages.

Local Picks: Wine Society and Coppola brands rank high with San Francisco weekenders.

Have a local food tip of your own? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

The post San Francisco Local Food Trends From 2018 appeared first on Fineman PR.

San Francisco is one of the toughest markets for restaurants to survive in, with sky-high rents and hundreds of options for hungry diners. A wise Uber driver once said, “even if every single resident of San Francisco were dining out at one of the city’s restaurants at the same time, there would still be seats left over.” True or not, it’s clear that the restaurant business is as competitive as ever, and to make it, you must be good.

Having collectively lived in the Bay Area for decades, we’ve eaten our way through San Francisco and are showcasing our list of classic favorites, and trendy hotspots. Without further ado, we present you with a list of our favorite go-to spots by neighborhood. We hope you’ll find it helpful when locating your next happy hour spot, date-night dinner or weekend brunch getaway.

NORTH BEACH

Mama’s

Oh Mama. A local breakfast favorite since the 1960’s, Mama’s serves hearty portions of the best breakfast bites in the city- including dungeness crab benedicts, Swedish cinnamon French toast and the ultimate bloody mary. Local tip: arrive before opening to avoid the long lines.

Fior d’Italia

Dubbed America’s oldest Italian Restaurant (yes, over 132 years old and counting), Fior has survived every natural disaster in San Francisco history, including the great earthquake and fires of 1906. The establishment holds true to their tradition by providing impeccable old-world service and charm. You can’t go wrong with the tagliatelle alla bolognese, ossobuco con polenta or the risotto.

Courtesy of grownuptravelguide.com

Original Joe’s

Established in 1937 by a Croatian immigrant in search of the American Dream, Original Joe’s is a San Francisco classic, serving delicious Italian-American comfort food in spacious red leather booths. Known as “OJ’s” by locals, Original Joe’s was the first “Joe’s Concept” open exhibition kitchen that has grown in popularity over the decades. Make sure to ask for a side of house-made ravioli to complement your entree.

Piccolo Forno

A simplistic and modern layout, this no-frills restaurant allows you to BYOB with no corkage fee and has extremely affordable authentic Italian cuisine. Perfect for a friend’s night out on a budget.

 Courtesy of Piccolo Forno

Il Casaro

A bite of Il Casaro’s pizza brings us back to Italy. This is a must-try for North Beach pizza spots, along with more famed Tony’s Pizza Napoletana.

SOMA / DOGPATCH

Bellota

Located in the base of Airbnb’s hip headquarters, this restaurant shines with their selection of paellas. It takes 30 minutes to prepare, so we recommend pulling up a seat at the bar and ordering some tapas and a pitcher of sangria while you wait. They often have live music, and you’ll be sure to enjoy the lively artwork splashed across their walls.

ROOH

A modern restaurant in a vibrant space, ROOH’s dishes and cocktails will tickle your taste buds with dimensional flavors. It is located across the street from intimate Jax Wine Bar, in case you want to grab a glass of vino on your way.

Courtesy of Eater

Deli Board

This little sandwich shop has a menu full of food coma-worthy options. Bring your appetite and your stretchy pants.

WESTERN ADDITION

Ijji Sushi

If you’re ready to break the bank for a special occasion, this should be on your list. Make a reservation in advance to sit at their small chef’s table where they will prepare a selection of the freshest daily catch right in front of you. They feature only the highest-quality fish and prepare it in a way that accentuates the natural flavors – from fire torched to savory salt rubs.

4505 Burgers & BBQ

There may be a line, but this drool-worthy BBQ is well-worth the wait. Just don’t go too late, or they might sell out of fan favorites.

Courtesy of 4505 Burgers & BBQ

NOPA

From brunch to late night dinner (they’re one of the few restaurants that serve until midnight), you can’t go wrong here. Belly up to the bar and try a sampling of their menu — from spaghetti to avocado toast, each bite is better than the last.

Che Fico

New to town and featured as Eater’s “Most Exciting New Place to Eat Right Now,” the team from Flour + Water brings Italian-style hospitality to this new Divisadero location. You can’t go wrong with their pasta and pizza.

THE RICHMOND

Hong Kong Lounge II

Described as one of the most authentic dim sum experiences in the city, Hong Kong Lounge II presents a medley of delightful little pockets of flaky pork buns, traditional soup dumplings and gooey egg custard tarts. Double down on this experience with the next day’s leftovers.

Chapeau!

This traditional French bistro boasts incredibly flavorful dishes (try the cassoulet) set in a charming, unpretentious dining room. Tucked away on Clement St., Chapeau! Is an unexpected find in a traditionally Asian-inspired restaurant row. Chef Philippe Gardelle makes regular appearances on the restaurant floor to greet his guests and share his coveted techniques.

Courtesy of Chapeau!

PPQ Dungeness Island

Go for the drunken crab and garlic noodles. Stay for the deep-fried banana with ice cream. PPQ is a local Vietnamese seafood treasure located off-the-grid and away from the regular Fisherman’s Wharf tourist trap crab destinations. Be in the company of fearless friends as you rip apart succulent crabs and leave smelling of eau de garlic.

MARINA

Mamanoko

Though we were sad to see Mamacita go, Mamanoko is a welcome addition to the Marina with delicious pork gyoza, fresh sushi and cookie dough rolls for dessert (which taste as good as they sound).

Ace Wasabi

If you’re looking for a fun vibe and equally great food, look no further. From date night to girls’ night, this rock and roll sushi bar has super tasty bites and delicious house rolls. We recommend the tuna poke tostadas with mango, brussels sprouts and the rocket man roll.

Terzo

Marina dwellers live at this upscale neighborhood staple, which is sister to nearby Rose’s cafe. Their personable and knowledgeable staff can recommend the wines to complement any of their delicious dishes, from burrata to roasted chicken and beyond.

Courtesy of Terzo

Blackwood

This modern Thai destination is owned by the founders of Kitchen Story, Sweet Maple, and other well-known SF mainstays. Sit by the fireplace outside, or order takeout — their Millionaire’s bacon is a MUST try, along with the Tom Khu chicken coconut soup, burger, ahi scoops, and… did we say bacon?  

Maybeck’s

Featuring beef wellington Wednesday’s, fried chicken & champagne Tuesday’s and lobster spaghetti Friday’s, you can comfortably slip into Maybeck’s dimly-lit dining room booth for the week. The freshly-made pasta and chopped salad are a must-try in the Marina. 

Courtesy of SF Chronicle

Zushi Puzzle

Talk about an overlooked destination- Zushi Puzzle serves some of the best Japanese dining in the city. Head to the back of the room and sit at the sushi bar with Chef Roger. He will prepare a special omakase experience ranging anywhere from 9 to 20 handmade courses, and keep you laughing the entire time.

Causwells

Comfy and casual, this restaurant offers several shareable favorites from brunch to dinner. Their burger is always a safe bet.

Courtesy of Causwells

HAYES VALLEY

Rich Table

Every bite eaten here is to be savored. Start with their savory donuts, a fun spin on your typical bread basket. We recommend coming for an intimate, special occasion.

Souvla

For fast-casual Greek, try Souvla’s slow-marinated lamb and chicken over a salad or in a sandwich. Don’t even think about leaving without trying their authentic Greek frozen yogurt with sea salt and olive oil. Once you try it, you will be hooked.

PRESIDIO HEIGHTS

Sorrel

What started as a sold-out pop-up dining experience, Sorrel has new permanent roots on Sacramento St. This Cal-Italian fare will delight the palates of the pickiest eaters. Start with the fried soft-shell crab, then splurge on the roasted duck for two.

Courtesy of Sorrel

Spruce

Named Wine Spectator’s Grand Award winner last year, Michelin star- rated Spruce is a fine dining establishment with a cult following (we’re looking at you former President Barack Obama). Don’t let the Baccarat crystal chandelier fool you into ordering foie gras, this spot has the best basic burger in SF (trust us, we’ve tried them all).

FILLMORE/LOWER PACIFIC HEIGHTS

La Mediterranee

This small neighborhood hideout offers half-off wine bottles on Tuesday nights and $20 per person Mediterranean platters with enough food to supply leftovers for your lunch the next day. Hummus and pomegranate chicken and filo pies… oh my!

Wise Sons

Tasty bagels in San Francisco- need we say more? We recommend trying one of their sandwich creations… and planning to take a nap afterwards.

MISSION

Civic Kitchen

Not a restaurant per se, but this brand-new cooking school will offer you the opportunity to cook everything from savory stews to sweet donuts. Come hungry for a meal and leave with a full belly and newfound cooking skills.

Myriad Gastropub

This is a hidden treasure. Though it might not be the newest, trendiest restaurant in SF, this charming, centrally-located spot features an array of flavorful, globally-inspired delicious dishes from all over- and doesn’t break the bank.

Alba Ray’s

If you like Cajun cookin’, this is the place for you. The playful decor matches the soulful dishes and fun frozen cocktail menu.

Al’s Place

Named Bon Appetit’s Restaurant of the Year, Al’s place is a fiercely creative and inspiring space that showcases dishes with unexpected (and delightful) flavors and textures. Try their family style tasting with wine pairing.

Courtesy of Al’s Place

Flour + Water

Gluten. Carbs. Pasta. Flour + Water provides comfort and substance to a diet-restricted world with their daily homemade pasta creations. You can even indulge in their six-dish pasta tasting menu. Dig in- don’t be shy.

Lolo

Family-owned and operated, Lolo dishes out non-traditional Mexican fare that will feed the masses. Dive into their spicy beef albondigas with a sidekick from the agave bar.

Lolinda

The only thing missing from this Argentinian steakhouse is a gaucho to greet you at the door. Offering a wide range of meats cooked over a wood-fired asador, Lolinda’s flavors will make your taste buds sing. Start with the empanadas and end with the homemade churros with dark chocolate and dulce de leche dipping sauces.

FINANCIAL DISTRICT/EMBARCADERO

Leo’s Oyster Bar

Possibly the most Instagrammed restaurant in SF, this hip post-work hotspot features fresh raw bar selections which pair great with their fun specialty cocktail menu (try the bubble bath).

Gott’s Roadside

If you’re looking for high-quality food – and fast – this is at the top of our list. Their Ferry Building location is one of a handful in the Bay Area and features a large patio with seasonal specials- like street corn or fresh salads with locally-sourced ingredients. Known for their burgers (including the meatless Impossible Burger), their tacos and sandwiches are also satisfying.

Waterbar

With breathtaking views of the Bay Bridge, Waterbar is a classic restaurant with an extensive list of high-quality seafood selections. We especially love the swordfish.

Angler

Believe the hype. Angler has lured the San Francisco food fanatics down to the water’s edge with their open wood fire cooking and lush cocktails. Don’t leave without trying the coveted Monterey abalone. 

Courtesy of Angler

Tadich Grill

Having opened in 1849, Tadich Grill is the oldest continuously running restaurant in California and the first to grill seafood over mesquite charcoal. Open the brass double doors to find white jacket-wearing waiters who don’t suffer fools lightly. Pony up to the long, wooden bar that stretches down the side of the room and order the local pan-fried sand dabs with a glass of California’s finest sauvignon blanc. You may be seated next to a local politician or celebrity.

Courtesy of Tadich Grill

Kokkari Estiatorio

As the Financial District quiets down at night, this Mediterranean staple continues to glow. Nightly specials are just as captivating as their tried and true dishes- like their dolmas and lamb.

E&O Kitchen and Bar  

Having celebrated its 20th year in San Francisco last year, E&O continues to stay fresh with $1 oysters and $1 dumplings deals and cocktails served out of pineapples at happy hour.

R&G Lounge

Step off Kearny St. an into an upscale Chinatown Cantonese paradise filled with unique, mouth-watering entrees. Try the famous salt & pepper crab, turnip & beef brisket clay pot and the sautéed eggplant.

POLK GULCH

Cocotte

This small French restaurant is as charming as it is delicious. Come on a warm night and they will leave the doors open al fresco style as if you were dining abroad. Dishes are authentic and flavorful.

Dunya

Perfect for a healthy weeknight post-workout meal, or a Friday night date, this spot features both affordable and yummy Mediterranean dishes. They serve good portions at a great price.

Liholiho Yacht Club

Ready to get transported to Hawaii? Start at Louie’s Gen Gen Room for a tropical cocktail downstairs, then migrate upstairs for dinner in an open-kitchen setting. Everything is delectable, but the beef tongue buns and fried rice are a must.

Mezcalito

With a huge library case of spirits behind the bar, this swanky Polk Street destination is known for fresh Mexican dishes and margaritas. Sombrero optional.

Courtesy of Mezcalito

Swan Oyster Depot

This austere countertop lunch spot has been serving the freshest seafood to San Franciscans for over 100 years. Treasured by the late Anthony Bourdain, Swan Oyster Depot is a must-try for mouth-puckering oysters, chowder and crisp Louie salads. This bastion of tradition serves a “secret menu” for regulars.

CASTRO

Finn Town

This playful bar and kitchen is calling your name. Bring your appetite so you can try their creative menu of California-inspired shareable plates and fun cocktails. They’ll most likely be screening one of your favorite movies, and you’ll become best friends with your server.

Starbelly

Take a seat on Starbelly’s sweet back patio and feel your stress melt away with their approachable drink and food menu, which features many dishes you would probably put on a menu if you decided to open a restaurant.

Do you have a staple spot in SF? Share your top picks with us!

The post Our 2019 San Francisco Restaurant Picks appeared first on Fineman PR.

Gruet Sauvage Blanc de Blancs

This bubbly bottle of suds comes from the sandy loam hillsides of southern New Mexico where it is produced via Méthode Champenoise by the famed Gruet family of Champagne Gruet et Fils. Made from 100% Chardonnay, Sauvage is aged en tirage for a minimum of two years with zero-dosage, resulting in a bone-dry sparkler with complex flavors.

Giornata Fiano 2015

An indigenous grape variety from the Campania region of Italy, this domestic Fiano is grown in the calcareous soils of Paso Robles. With only 90 cases produced – this white wine is fermented using only native yeast and expresses the land’s minerality with aromas of stone fruit and wildflowers.

Rootdown 2017 Rosé of Trousseau

This pink gem comes from winemaker Mike Lucia, formerly of Copain Wines, using organically grown grapes from the 1.8-acre St. Amant Vineyard in Lodi. A red grape variety native to the Jura region of France, this Trousseau was hand harvested, tread by foot, and left to soak with its skins for 24 hours before being pressed into a gorgeous rosé.

Trail Marker Wine Co. 2016 Mokelumne Glen Vineyard Zweigelt   

Known for their natural style of winemaking, the husband and wife duo produced this wine using fruit from the beloved Mokelumne Vineyard in Lodi. Austria’s most widespread red grape variety, Zweigelt is a crossing of Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent. This domestic version of Zweigelt beautifully exposes the forest berries and floral characters typical to this variety.

Share your favorite wine in the comments below. 

The post Wine Wednesday 10/10/18 appeared first on Fineman PR.

The Hotlist

• China Live
• SPQR
• La Ciccia
• Mourad
• Delfina
• International Smoke
• Outerlands
• Tartine Manufactory
• State Bird Provisions
• Liholiho Yacht Club
• Leo’s Oyster Bar

 Leo’s Oyster Bar- Courtesy of Krescent Carasso

Money is No Object

• Benu
• Saison
• Atelier Crenn
• Quince
• Campton Place
• Acquerello

Courtesy of Acquerello

Best Views While Having Good Food

• Cliff House
• Waterbar
• Scoma’s Sausalito
• Americano
• Pier 23
• Claremont Hotel
• La Mar Cebicheria
• El Techo de Lolinda
• Greens

Courtesy of Waterbar

Best in the Mission

• True Laurel
• Locanda
• Delfina
• Bar Agricole
• Frances
• Foreign Cinema
• Al’s Place
• Limon
• Commonwealth

Courtesy of Commonwealth

Best in North Beach

• Venticello
• Tosca
• Park Tavern
• The House
• Piccolo Forno

Courtesy of Park Tavern

My Personal Favorites

• Burma Superstar
• International Smoke
• Coqueta
• Kokkari Estiatorio
• The Progress
• Boulevard
• Nopa
• Slanted Door

Courtesy of Kokkari Estiatorio

Best Chinese

• Mister Jiu’s
• Yank Sing
• House of Nanking
• Hakkasan
• R&G Lounge
• Ton Kiang

Courtesy of Hakkasan

Mexican/Latino

• Californios
• Flores
• Padrecito
• Don Pisto’s
• Nopalito
• Limon
• Tacolicious

Courtesy of Californios

Good Value, Good Time, Good Food, Good Bar (Top 10)

• A16
• Park Tavern
• Scala’s
• Wayfare Tavern
• Perbacco/Barbacco
• Delarosa
• Outerlands
• Town Hall
• Tosca
• Belden Alley

Courtesy Wayfare Tavern

Best Wine Country Recommendations

• French Laundry
• Mustard’s
• Bouchon (and bakery next door)
• Morimoto’s
• La Toque
• Solbar
• Redd
• Bistro Don Giovanni
• Ad Hoc
• Bistro Jeanty
• Torc

Courtesy of Bouchon

Best Pizza

• Tommaso’s
• Tony’s Pizza Napoletana
• IL Casaro
• Golden Boy Pizza
• Del Popolo
• Pauline’s

Courtesy of Del Popolo

Worth the Short Trek or Bridge Crossing

• Scoma’s (Sausalito)
• Mountain Home Inn (Mill Valley)
• Chez Panisse (Berkeley)
• Evvia (Palo Alto)
• Everett & Jones BBQ (Oakland)
• Vivace (Belmont)
• Molina (Mill Valley)
• Sushi Ran (Sausalito)
• Terrapin Crossroads (San Rafael)
• La Note (Berkeley)
• Pier 15 (San Rafael)

Scoma’s- Courtesy of Fiveprime

Must Stop Shops

• The Fatted Calf Butchery (Hayes)
• Mario’s Bohemian Cigar Store Cafe (North Beach)
• Lucca Delicatessen (Marina)
• Bi Rite Market (multiple locations)
• Saint Frank Coffee (Russian Hill)
• Ferry Building (Embarcadero)
• Limoncello Delicatessen (Lower Pacific Heights)
• Local Mission Market

Courtesy of Fatted Calf

They Define the City

• Park Tavern
• Swan Oyster Depot
• Slanted Door
• Boulevard
• Zuni
• Elite Café
• Gary Danko
• House of Prime Rib
• Yank Sing
• Hayes Street Grill
• The Ramp
• Mission Rock Resort
• Tadich Grill
• Sam’s Grill & Seafood

 Courtesy of Boulevard

The post Michael Fineman’s 2018 San Francisco Restaurant Picks appeared first on Fineman PR.

This past year at Fineman PR was marked by the onboarding of new and diverse clients and partnerships. Our work included the planning and content development for startup distilleries, driving the continuing rise in popularity for the San Francisco Marathon, expanding our work in the public sector with two leading-edge public agencies, productizing our media training offering, increasing growth in our healthcare practice, and forming significant new alliances.

Strategic Partnership with Hearst Corporation-backed 46Mile

For the last year-and-a-half, Fineman PR has partnered with the Hearst-backed 46Mile, a full-service marketing and advertising agency, to develop integrated campaigns for clients including Meritage Medical Network, Leading Age California, Loch & Union Distilling, and C-5 Children’s School, among others. Our two agencies develop business together, both independently and as a cohesive, integrated communications unit, and there is discussion on new and enhanced ways of working together for greater client solutions. Stay tuned.

Photo courtesy: 46Mile

Public Sector

Fineman PR is working with the San Francisco Department of the Environment on several initiatives that continue to position San Francisco as a global leader of the green movement. Additionally, along with our partner, D&A Communications, we are providing media relations strategy and counsel to the Transbay Joint Powers Authority for the inauguration of the highly anticipated, new Salesforce Transit Center & Salesforce Park. D&A is a top-notch San Francisco public affairs firm specializing in the areas of infrastructure, public health, transportation, environment and community revitalization, and our joint efforts offer clients a powerful combo.

Photo courtesy: Pelli Architects

San Francisco Marathon

The 2017 San Francisco Marathon celebrated its 40^th anniversary. The race sold out at record pace – two months ahead of schedule. We generated a 70 percent increase in media impressions over 2016 with expanded coverage by Bay Area media outlets and in major national media including the New York Times, Bleacher Report and MSN. The San Francisco Marathon was also named by ESPN among the “World’s Best Marathons.”  

Photo courtesy: The San Francisco Marathon

Foster Farms

Our promotional, crisis management and issues management work remained steady for longtime client, West Coast poultry producer Foster Farms. Our team initiated influencer marketer campaigns with fitness and lifestyle bloggers to promote Foster Farms’ Organic turkey products. We were grateful to help support our client’s wildfire relief efforts in Santa Rosa and surrounding Northern California communities as well as in Ventura following the devastating Southern California wildfires.

Our work to promote the company’s partnership with West Coast food banks – and longstanding holiday turkey donations program – resulted in a 69 percent jump in broadcast news coverage over 2016 that helped raise awareness of food insecurity from Seattle to San Diego. Finally, we wrapped up the year at Levi’s Stadium for the Foster Farms Bowl, a game dedicated to fighting hunger, pitting the Purdue Boilermakers against the Arizona Wildcats.

Photo courtesy: Foster Farms

Dunkin’ Donuts

In 2017, we continued work with Dunkin’ Donuts to support the brand’s introduction and expansion in Northern California with new restaurants throughout the region. Last year, we successfully hosted four grand opening celebrations in South San Francisco, Fremont, Santa Cruz, and Hanford, the brand’s first location in the Central Valley.

In each market, we worked with the local business community, government leaders and charities – all hyperlocal – to promote Dunkin’s commitment to the area. In addition, we supported regional promotion of national initiatives, including Free Donut Friday, Freeze the Day with $1K, National Coffee Day, and National Donut Day.

Photo courtesy: Dunkin’ Donuts

HNTB

HNTB, a national infrastructure solutions firm, experienced a year of wins in 2017, both for its projects as well as its leadership team. HNTB Northern California District Leader Darlene Gee was recognized as Woman of the Year by Women’s Transportation Seminar, a non-profit dedicated to advancing women in transportation, and one of its local project managers received coverage as a rising star in the rail industry.

A major project win, the BART Warm Springs/South Fremont Station, received praise across the Bay Area for its innovative design. HNTB was consistently cited among top-tier regional and trade media, including San Francisco Business Times, Progressive Railroading, ENR California, Mass Transit Magazine, Silicon Valley Business Journal and Curbed, for its growing role as an industry thought leader with experts who are shaping the discussion around infrastructure solutions in the Bay Area.

Photo courtesy: HNTB

Wine Practice

Quintessa, was again featured in Wine Spectator’s biennial Napa issue as a must-visit winery. Napa Valley’s Faust celebrated its 13th anniversary vintage by partnering with noted graffiti artist, known only as “Faust,” from New York City. Faust’s limited release 2015 vintage magnum features the tag which graffiti artist Faust uses internationally.

For Materra І Cunat Family Vineyards, Fineman PR planned and executed a successful 10-year-anniversary media event at the winery which showcased the brand’s range of estate merlots. We also conducted several media training sessions for wineries, including Rodney Strong Vineyards.

Additionally, we continued to assist with crisis and issues management preparedness for Wine Institute, the advocate for California wine and more than 1,000 wineries and affiliated businesses.

HealthRIGHT 360

In our third year with HealthRIGHT 360, one of California’s largest community health care providers, we helped mark significant milestones, including a merger with San Francisco-based Women’s Community Clinic and the opening of the organization’s new headquarters and outpatient clinic, the Integrated Care Center. We also created the organization’s first outdoor marketing campaign with the City’s public transit system. Among the year’s big media wins was a national NPR story, a San Francisco Chronicle op-ed, and a New York Times – California Today story. 

Photo courtesy: Drew Altizer Photography

With 2018 underway, the agency is seeing continued growth with new clients and expanded projects for existing clients. We have made several new agency hires, increased our digital and marketing capabilities internally, and look forward to providing the trusted, strategic counsel our clients have come to expect from Fineman PR.

The post Fineman PR State-Of-The-Agency, 2017 appeared first on Fineman PR.

In recent conversations with our agency’s clients, more food and beverage communicators are embracing artificial intelligence technology, specialized influencer marketing and increasingly sophisticated social media content to increase brand authenticity and improve the overall consumer experience.

Artificial Intelligence? Wine Not?

For many food and beverage artisans, the environment in which a product is grown or made is a vital part of the overall product experience. Quintessa is a renowned 280-acre wine estate in Rutherford, one of Napa Valley’s most distinctive properties, with five soil types, hills, valleys, a lake and a river. The diverse estate inspires the impressive wines for which it is known.

“At Quintessa, our strongest asset and differentiator is the world-class estate from which we source our wine,” said Leslie Sullivan, DWS, Napa Estates Director of Huneeus Vintners, who manages communications for Quintessa.

“For those consumers and trade who are able to visit the estate, we are able to build ambassadors; however, our reach is limited. As a result, we’ve begun to better utilize technology to connect with our consumers and trade. For instance, we’ve used video, drone footage, 360 video and virtual reality to allow our consumers and trade to engage with our property. While nothing compares to the full sensory experience of enjoying a glass of Quintessa at the estate, we are able to better express and share what Quintessa is all about.”

Photos courtesy of Quintessa Instagram

Community, Convenience, Quality

With a 68-year heritage and nearly 12,000 locations worldwide, Dunkin’ Donuts continues to evolve while keeping its focus on fast, friendly service and community involvement.

According to Public Relations Senior Manager, Justin Drake, Dunkin’ Donuts maintains its focus on fast, friendly service while delivering innovations that today’s consumer expects from sophisticated food brands:

“As Dunkin’ Donuts continues to grow and evolve, remaining authentic to the core of our brand is very important. Dunkin’ Donuts was founded as a brand offering high-quality coffee and baked goods to our guests, all served with fast, friendly service and at a great value, and we remain true to this mission to this day.”

“We’ve expanded our coffee and espresso menu in recent years to include options like Cold Brew, Rainforest Alliance Certified Dark Roast Coffee, and Macchiatos. These menu additions remain true to our 68-year heritage as a coffee company, while also staying on trend in terms of what customers are looking for today from a coffee brand. We’ve launched On-the-Go Mobile Ordering for DD Perks members through the Dunkin’ Donuts mobile app, where guests can place their order in advance and then speed past the line in-store to pick-up their order. This innovation remains true to our mission of offering fast service and unparalleled convenience to our guests.”

Photos courtesy of Dunkin’ Donuts Instagram

Community giving is a core value for Dunkin’ Donuts that empowers franchisees around the world to give back and strengthen their own communities:

Continued Drake, “At Dunkin’, we feel fortunate that our restaurants are part of the fabric of so many communities and neighborhoods around the globe, and our franchisees value the role they can play in strengthening their communities. Our franchisees donate millions of dollars annually to local non-profits. Additionally, our organization collectively supports our national foundation, The Joy in Childhood Foundation, which is dedicated to bringing joy to sick and hungry children.”

Consumers Seek, Expect Info Online

For family-owned poultry producer Foster Farms, a robust social media presence is required to address the questions and provide the reassurance that consumers actively seek.

“Increasingly consumers are asking more and more questions about where their food comes from and how it is made,” said Ira Brill, Foster Farms’ Director of Communications. “Our commitment to product quality is at the heart of authenticity, and Foster Farms is one of the west’s true authentic brands — having been founded in 1939 on the values of locally grown, and continuing as a family owned company today — has continuously evolved to include digital and social media tools to enhance our consumer engagement and contribute substantively to consumer conversation. From engaging influencer programs, to enticing recipes and social media content, Foster Farms aims to be a part of the discussion at every touchpoint.”

Photos courtesy of Foster Farms Instagram

Building Authenticity with Influencers

Social marketing strategists at Collectively understand how deeply consumer brands and consumers value authenticity.

“Influencer marketing works best when creators are empowered to make decisions about how best to present a brand story to their audiences,” said Natalie Silverstein, Collectively Vice President of Brand, Marketing and Culture.

“Creators are truly the experts in understanding what resonates with the people they’re in dialogue with every day. Authenticity shines through when an influencer actually believes in the product and has integrated it into their content in a way that feels almost effortless.”

Photos courtesy of Collectively Instagram

“For our food and beverage clients, we’re bringing opportunities to a wider set of creators beyond the more expected food and cooking influencers — lifestyle, health and wellness, parenting, photography, and more.”

Silverstein agrees authenticity is a higher priority now for food and beverage brands: “‘Authenticity’ has been the most-used buzzword of the industry for quite some time, and it continues to be a key goal for most brands. We believe this is a direct result of the broader cultural transformation around trust in institutions and other traditional gatekeepers of information.”

The post As Food Goes Global and High Tech, U.S. Brands Boost Authenticity appeared first on Fineman PR.

We’ve also heard from the well-known wine blogger Alder Yarrow on Vinography and Bloomberg’s wine writer Elin McCoy that the best ways to support the Northern California wine regions are to buy California wines and to visit Napa, Sonoma and Mendocino.

This was echoed by Karissa Kruse, president of Sonoma County Winegrowers, on SF Gate. As she noted, “More than ever, we need folks to come and support tourism here. This week, everyone is sending money to the Red Cross and emergency services. Next week, if you want to help, buy our wine.”

And choosing to buy California wine will certainly help, but that alone in not enough. As noted on SF Gate, one in four jobs in Napa and Sonoma are connected to wine and tourism. The restaurants and hotels (and the cooks, servers, dishwashers, housekeepers and front desk staff that work at them) also need support. Not only that, but most small- to mid-sized wineries don’t have much wine in distribution, and they depend on direct to consumer sales.

October and early November are typically among the region’s busiest times of year for tourism, with the buzz and excitement of harvest and usually ideal weather. At least anecdotally, the tourists haven’t come back yet. Just yesterday, someone with a close read on the Napa wine industry told me, “It’s surreal, this is normally the most vibrant time of the year for tourism and no one is here.”

So, what can we as Northern Californians do to help our regional wine communities as they continue to struggle with the aftermath of the fires? Yes, buy California wine, but more significantly plan a trip to the wine country, if not this weekend, then soon. Go to your favorite winery, or try a few new ones. Consider staying the night. Buy sandwiches at a local shop for a picnic, and dine at one of the many renowned restaurants for dinner. But most importantly, just visit.

Visitor resources:

Napa – www.visitnapavalley.com

Sonoma – www.sonomacounty.com

Mendocino – www.visitmendocino.com

The post After the Fires, How Can We Help Northern California’s Wine Country Communities? appeared first on Fineman PR.

Sol Trujillo and Rupert Murdoch at the launch of the State
                     of Latino Entrepreneurship report

Earlier this year, we helped launch the State of Latino Entrepreneurship (SOLE) 2016 research report, a collaborative effort of the Stanford Graduate School of Business and the Latino Business Action Network. A much-needed whiff of fresh air.

The SOLE report uses primary and secondary research to examine the state of Latino-owned businesses, expanding our understanding of the Latino entrepreneurship segment of the U.S. economy, which comprises about one in every eight (12 percent) U.S. businesses.

If your perception of a Latino-owned business (LOB) is a taco truck on a street corner in an L.A. suburb, think again. These businesses range widely in size, industry and the owner’s country of birth. Most importantly, they are highly integrated in the overall economy, which means that when Latino-owned businesses thrive, the community thrives with them.

Not surprisingly, almost 60 percent of LOBs are located in the four states with the largest Latino populations: California, Texas, Florida and New York. Yet, far from being niche-market endeavors, these companies are tightly woven into the broader community. The SOLE report found that:

• 74 percent serve non-Latino clients
• 54 percent employ mostly non-Latino workers
• About 70 percent are owned by U.S.-born Latinos
• They range across industries, with most in professional & business services, manufacturing & construction and education & health care

It is estimated that Latinos own 4.23 million businesses in the U.S., a number that has grown twice as fast as the national average since 2012.

This strong entrepreneurial spirit, which is actually a major pillar of the U.S. Latino identity, was particularly evident during the recent recession. Despite the economic downturn, between 2007 and 2012 the number of LOBs grew by 46.3 percent, vastly outstripping the overall pace of U.S. firms, which grew by only 2 percent.

Latinos are also overrepresented in small and medium-size business ownership. Despite this, brands and agencies too often ignore them when developing B2B strategies.

While the SOLE report demonstrates the strength and dynamism of Hispanic entrepreneurship, this data should not be taken to suggest that Latinos are a monolithic community. Quite the contrary, this community is diverse and multilayered.

So, forget the taco truck stereotype and look at the data. The numbers tell the story of a driven, resourceful and resilient community that is proud of its culture while at the same time fully integrated into U.S. society. Latino entrepreneurs are ready to surmount any challenges thrown at them, and they’re increasingly unapologetic about their place in our nation.

Making headway in the U.S. Latino market therefore requires a nuanced communications approach that takes account of its inner complexities. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work to engage Latinos anymore, if it ever did.

The post Taco trucks, data and the facts about Latino entrepreneurship appeared first on Fineman PR.

In San Francisco, expectations of visitors run high, as they should. The city is spectacular, expensive, and wrought with tourist-traps all the same.  I have to know where to recommend clients and guests shop, dine, relax and have a glorious time while they are visiting. We host conferences here for public relations agencies from around the world (IPREX network, www.iprex.com), I attend professional conferences here, and I travel to other cities to speak, learn and attend to client business.

I also know the impact of peer-to-peer recommendation and word of mouth marketing for a business’ reputation and growth potential. It’s only natural for me to practice what I preach.  Whether by reflex or perennial practice, I can’t help but take note when I encounter an exceptional customer experience. That is why I’ve compiled this not-so-short list of a few of my favorite things to do, see, shop and be in San Francisco:

Best wine and spirits retailers

• Cask – 17 Third St., San Francisco
• Draeger’s Market – 222 E. 4^th, San Mateo – Also in Menlo Park, Danville and Los Altos
• Ferry Plaza Wine Merchant – Ferry Building on the Embarcadero, San Francisco
• Jug Shop – 1590 Pacific Ave. (off Polk), San Francisco
• K&L Wine Merchants – 855 Harrison St., San Francisco – Also in Redwood City
• PlumpJack Wine & Spirits – 3201 Fillmore St., San Francisco
• Weimax – 1178 Broadway, Burlingame
• Whisky Shop – 360 Sutter St., San Francisco
• Wingtip – 550 Montgomery St., San Francisco – (wine & spirits in the back)
• There is always Bevmo, highly commercial, but excellent selection (stores throughout Bay Area)

Best men’s retail stores in S.F. Bay Area

With some further qualifications — you won’t find highly swanky or ultra modern shops mentioned here, although all listed below are upscale. You won’t find for “youth only” clothing that wouldn’t fit you anyway. What you will find are upscale labels, tailored, off the rack, tasteful men’s clothing for guys from 35 to 75+. You’ll find help that knows their business and knows how to fit their customers in straight forward, stylish threads, whether casual or for more dressed occasions. Some of them are more casual than others, and some offer bespoke. If you know a store in other parts of San Francisco or the Bay Area, let me know, and I will be happy to review for inclusion here.

• Couture, 395 Sutter St., S.F.
• Gene Hiller, 729 Bridgeway, Sausalito
• John Varvatos, 152 Geary St., S.F.
• Sarrtori, 740 Laurel St., San Carlos
• Ted Baker, 80 Grant Ave., S.F.
• The Hound, 140 Sutter St., S.F.
• Wingtip, 550 Montgomery St., S.F.

*Also, in San Francisco, three top-shelf department store men’s departments – Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom (both downtown Westfield Center), and Sak’s Fifth Avenue Men’s at 220 Post St., San Francisco.

Best sights, activities and views while in San Francisco and the immediate Bay Area

By the water

• Ocean Beach the Cliff House restaurant, Sutro Baths just below and view point just above
• Ferries on the Bay
• The Embarcadero – walk the waterfront for miles or hike between the distractions on the way
• Ferry Plaza – one of the great Embarcadero distractions; shopping and dining, ferries and views
• Treasure Island – look back for a spectacular view of the downtown skyline
• Crissy Field and Marina Green
• Great Highway, hike the path alongside and just above the ocean
• Fort Funston and Lake Merced
• Crystal Springs Reservoir

Hills

• Twin Peaks – high point in San Francisco
• Mount Davidson — also right in the city
• Land’s End – you’re at the edge; stunning
• Bernal Heights Park
• Mount Sutro
• Marin Headlands (the views, Point bonita Lighthouse, Marine Mammal Center)
• Mount Tamalpais – drive, bike or hike all the way up
• Berkeley Hills and Tilden Park
• Mount Diablo – one of the highest points in the entire region; hard to fathom you are a short drive from downtown (not at height of commute time)

Cool Towns

• Tiburon
• Sausalito,
• Berkeley
• Burlingame
• Palo Alto

Attractions

• Fort Point and Fort Baker and the Golden Gate Bridge linking them
• Jack London Square, Oakland
• City Lights Bookstore and the Beat Museum (both in North Beach)
• Angel Island (S.F.’s Ellis island for Asian immigrants)
• Union Square – shopping, people watching and home to Fineman PR
• Golden Gate Park – hiking, biking, museums
• Alcatraz – worth it I promise
• S.F. Jazz Center
• Beach Blanket Babylon
• Presidio – former military post, now national park
• Filbert Street Steps
• Stern Grove summer concerts
• AT&T Park (home of the S.F. Giants)
• St. George Spirits Distillery (Alameda)
• Emeryville Public Market
• S.F. Civic Center (Opera, Ballet, Symphony, City Hall, Asian Art Museum)
• And not to be forgotten, the mainstays: Coit Tower, Ghirardelli Square and The Cannery, cable cars, Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, and crooked Lombard Street

Museums

• Legion of Honor
• San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (MOMA)
• De Young

San Francisco neighborhoods

• North Beach – Columbus Avenue, Italian flavored, vestiges of old bohemians, restaurants and bars
• Castro – LGBT-centered, edgy
• Marina – Think singles, Chestnut Street, Marina Green, Bay views from Fort Mason to Fort Point
• Noe Valley – gentrified, families, 24^th Street shopping
• Chinatown – touristy but authentic
• The Mission – still Latino but more and more the younger folk in hip restaurants and bars
• Telegraph Hill
• Nob Hill
• Russian Hill
• Fillmore – lots of shops
• Haight-Ashbury – where it’s still the ‘sixties
• Richmond – down Clement, think fog
• Sunset – down Irving, think fog
• Union Street – near and related to the Marina
• Hayes Valley – a “scene,” near San Francisco’s Civic Center
• Potrero Hill – Think Bullitt car chase, street scenes up and down, up and down, up and down
• Pacific Heights – Billionaire Row
• Bernal Heights – Cortland Avenue shopping village thoroughfare

Watering Holes with views

• Top of the Mark (Nob Hill)
• Top of the Marriott Marquis The View Lounge (downtown)
• Waterbar – along the Embarcadero, almost underneath the Bay Bridge; also good fish and seafood
• Pier 23
• Starlight Room (atop the Sir Francis Drake Hotel
• Cityscape Bar & Restaurant (Hilton)
• Cliff House (on the ocean)
• Slanted Door – in Ferry Plaza; also known as one of the best restaurants in the U.S. (Vietnamese/Pacific rim)
• Fisherman’s Wharf/Pier 39 – several
• The Ramp
• El Techo (rooftop bar in the Mission)
• Mission Rock Resort
• Ferry Building
• Beach Chalet (near Cliff House, sometimes called Park Chalet)
• Green’s – wonderful vegetarian restaurant in Fort Mason along the Bay
• The Waterfront Restaurant
• Coqueta – a personal favorite
• La Mar Cebicheria – Peruvian; beautiful space along the Embarcadero, on the Bay with terrific food
• McCormick & Kuleto’s – in Ghirardelli Square
• Scoma’s Sausalito
• Sam’s Tiburon
• Skates – on the Berkeley side of the Bay
• Claremont Hotel – spectacular views from the Oakland hills
• Cavallo Point – at foot of Golden Gate Bridge on Sausalito side

Extended Stay/Exploring Nearby

• Wine Country (Napa and/or Sonoma)
• Russian River
• Carmel/Monterey
• Half Moon Bay
• Santa Cruz
• Point Reyes
• Stinson Beach
• Muir Woods
• Bodega Bay
• Muir Beach
• Ano Nueva State Park (elephant seals)
• Gold Country
• Big Sur
• Lake Tahoe
• Yosemite

The post That’s What He Said: My Guide to Do, See, Shop and Be in San Francisco appeared first on Fineman PR.