As a committed carnivore, I generally avoid eating at vegetarian restaurants. It's not that I don't love vegetables too, and it's certainly not a hard-and-fast rule, I just always feel sort of empty inside afterwards. It's like casual sex only more expensive and less gratifying. Here's the point: I finally dragged myself to dinner the Mission's Japanese vegetarian stronghold Cha-Ya (762 Valencia) after many months of the same assessment by meat-eaters and veggies alike: "It's really good, even for a vegetarian restaurant."
The exciting conclusion of my meal after the jump ...
While the block of 16th Street around South Van Ness in the dicey heart of the Mission may seem an unlikely spot to find excellent, upscale Italian served in a sophisticated and downright chic setting, Bar Bambino (2931 16th St) has been doing just that, snagging critical accolades right and left along the way. Promising to further ramp up its reputation, Bambino is set to launch the first in a series of monthly wine and cheese tastings, starting this Sunday April 20. The spring-centric offerings include fresh goat and sheep’s milk cheeses paired with wine selections and ample doses of wisdom by owner Christopher Losa. The event runs 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.; $45 per person. Call 701-VINO (8466) for reservations.
-- Brian Bernbaum
