Victorian London was a magical era, with orphans cementing their pickpocketing skills as Jack the Ripper eviscerated prostitutes. Despite this, San Francisco's own annual Dickens Fair celebrates all the things that made coal-blackened 1878 a great time to be alive. For five weekends leading up to Christmas, the Cow Palace in Daly City hosts corseted ladies waltzing with dapper fancy-men in top hats, while the Queen and her royal guard meander through the streets, saying hello to all us commoners.
You might spy guests dressed like a Doctor Who character or in full Raiders fan garb, but the carolers and pirates singing sea shanties quickly bring your attention back to Oliver Twist-era Britain. On Black Friday, my family opted out of trampling single mothers at Walmart, instead buying trinkets at full price.
Collectively, one of our favorite aspects of the fair is the food, a hearty selection of authentic recipes and flavors. I've outlined my favorites below.
Cinnamon Crunch Almonds
Upon entering the Fair, your senses will be overwhelmed by a warm, cinnamon-y aroma. Before heading to the bar to get the alcohol you'll need to party with all these history enthusiasts, make sure to grab a hot sack of nuts at the cart next to the Fezziwig's dance floor.
A Hot Drink
Cider, cocoa, a hot toddy — there's no way to go wrong with the drink selections. Insider tip: The bar at the front serves coffee, but I recommend heading all the way down to the other end of the building for the best cup of joe. You won't make it far without wanting to shop.
Fish 'n' Chips
Oh my cod, is this fish good — so good that I can't stop myself from making terrible puns. England isn't exactly known for delicious food, but apparently they were doing something right back in Victorian times. That, or California has access to some good cod.
Chocolate
Full disclosure, I am not a chocolate fan. But Bramosia Fine Chocolates & Candies has a white-chocolate-and-lemon truffle that makes even this stone heart melt a little. My family enjoys their traditional chocolate concoctions, and my vegan brother-in-law has lots of options to choose from here. Don't go home without trying one of these beauties.
Gyros
We're going to stray from the traditional English menu and take a look at the Greek food. My 15-year-old brother is a gyro aficionado who swears the Acropolis gyro is the best he's had outside of New York, which is why he makes sure to order it during our once-a-year visit to the Dickens Fair.
Maclaren's Cookies and Milk
Somehow my family always meanders in such a way that this is our last stop, but it's an excellent place to end. True to Victorian times, children are the primary workers at this booth, because if anyone knows cookies and milk, it's kids. Make sure you get a gooey, freshly baked chocolate chip cookie with your moo juice. It's not held at the Cow Palace for nothing.
Comments are closed.
