I can’t remember when I first started dining at Delfina on 18th Street in San Francisco’s Mission District. Could likely be that I was there for the Fancy Food Show sometime in the late ’90s and went down to visit Bi-Rite (one of the country’s best specialty food stores, for sure). I could easily have […]

A superior summer sweet that’s sure to brighten your day Speaking of citrus, how about that light, lilting Lemon Sorbet from the Creamery? It’s fantastic! A happy, spritely way to summer-ize any evening! Like all the gelati and sorbetti at the Creamery, this one is handmade using fresh lemon juice. It’s lovely just like it is. If […]

Cheezeducation charges ahead at the Creamery As I work more and more with the idea of organizations as ecosystems (stay tuned for a new pamphlet on the subject next year) and with the idea of working in harmony with the greater ecosystem in which one’s business is located, it’s clear in hindsight that Zingerman’s is […]

Liptauer Cheese from the Creamery If you’re one of the thousands of folks who’ve fallen in love our pimento cheese over the last ten years, make a note for yourself to ask for a taste of this traditional Hungarian version next time you’re in the Cream Top Shop or the Deli. While Hungarians will know it as “Liptauer,” it could […]

22 herbs and spices in a superb not-at-all secret blend While the name “Staff Barbecue Spice” may sound a bit innocuous don’t be fooled—this stuff has 22 different herbs and spices. Check the list—cayenne, chile flakes, New Mexico chile flakes, chipotle, paprika, black cardamom, red Sichuan pepper, black pepper, white pepper, rosemary, thyme, marjoram, savory, […]

An appetizer for the ages In May, I traveled to Turin, Italy, to learn about the food and cooking of the Piedmont region, where I found a bunch of good things. Stay tuned for more. But one I can’t get out of my mind is the simple combination of anchovies and butter. Unsalted butter with top-notch […]