The Daily Balance

Some of you may know that the first half of my San Francisco trip did not go well. All 20 of my boxes for my trade show were lost, I was working 10 hour days with no support and living off of packaged food, since the show site – get this- only served HOT DOGS. I wish I was kidding…

Anyway, when my gracious aunt offered to take me to lunch, I practically wept for joy. And when she told me we were going to the Garden Court at the Palace Hotel, I could hardly contain my excitement.

Originally designed in 1901 as the hotel’s carriage entrance, the magnificent glass-domed courtyard has been touted as one of the most beautiful venues in the world. Transformed after the earthquake of 1906, the Garden Court as we know it today was unveiled – dazzling visitors with its towering Italian marble columns, Austrian crystal chandeliers, gold leaf sconces, mirrored doors and breathtaking crown of stained glass that perfectly capture the splendor of the Belle Époque era.

Upon entering the restuarant, the setting took my breath away.

To start, we both ordered the pumpkin soup. We were each given a bowl with a clump of goat cheese and walnuts inside. The waiter then brought out the soup in a hot pitcher and poured it into our bowls at the table — fancy schmancy! But the photo didn’t turn out that great and I didn’t want to ruin your mental image

For my entree, I ordered the classic crab salad – fresh crab stacked on a field of greens and chopped vegetables.

Crab close-up

This was some of the freshest crab I’ve eaten! The salad was extremely refreshing and I really loved the ‘green goddess’ dressing.

My aunt insisted that we order dessert and I happily complied

I selected the chocolate mousse with caramel, cashews and freshly whipped cream.

How beautiful is that detail!?

My aunt ordered the baked pear tart, which looked just as beautiful. Check out the hearts crafted into her custard!

Overall, it was the best meal I had in San Francisco. If you are ever in the city, you must check it out! Gorgeous ambiance and delicious food — can’t go wrong

What is your vacation eating style? Do you allow yourself to splurge or do you keep it pretty healthy?

9 Responses to “Daily Delish – Fancy Eats (San Fran recap 2)”

1. Diana said:

   Omg, that place looks AMAZING. And that food! Wow.
   Well, I try to stay eat as healthy as I can, as always. I do splurge a little bit more frequently but I try to be conscious of my choices and see if the splurges are really worth it.

   Posted on October 16, 2009 at 6:22 pm | Reply
2. Jenny said:

   ugh honey! sorry about the mishaps — that sounds super stressful!

   at least the restaurant was redeeming…good lord! that chocolate mousse looks incredible!!

   Posted on October 16, 2009 at 6:33 pm | Reply
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   Posted on October 17, 2009 at 2:09 am | Reply
4. Caroline Albert said:

   A wonderful dining experience crowned by gorgeous stained glass… perfect, simply perfect!

   Posted on October 17, 2009 at 3:08 pm | Reply
5. Meghan said:

   I am lucky that overall I enjoy healthy foods, but we definitely splurge on desserts and a little more wine!

   Posted on October 17, 2009 at 3:53 pm | Reply
6. Sagan said:

   A meal like that would sure make up for the stressful times!

   Posted on October 17, 2009 at 10:29 pm | Reply
7. AnnQ said:

   What a gorgeous hotel!

   Posted on October 18, 2009 at 9:45 pm | Reply
8. rhodeygirl said:

   That’s where I stayed the last time I went to San Fran! It was sooo beautiful!

   Posted on October 20, 2009 at 9:50 am | Reply
9. rhodeygirl said:

   P.S. Sorry to hear the trip went poorly!

   Posted on October 20, 2009 at 9:51 am | Reply