girleatscity

I went to Chez Panisse Cafe (upstairs) a few months ago and thought it was fine, but not mind blowing. I have never been to the Chez Panisse Restaurant (downstairs). If you reserve, make sure you reserve it as soon as they allow you to do so (I think one month out). I got to this task a day late and was not able to make reservations at the restaurant. When we went, the braised octopus was the best dish we tried at the cafe. If you have time and access to your own transportation, it might be worth your while to head north to Calistoga or other parts of Napa Valley. I liked Sol Bar (one Michelin star) and loved JoLe. I heard a lot about Ubuntu (raves all around from both vegetarians and avowed carnivores), but didn't get a chance to go. I did visit Ame in SF. Maybe it was an off night or maybe I ordered poorly, but I did not think the meal I had measured up to many similar restaurants in NYC.

I'm looking for a butcher who sells large, roast-sized cuts of lamb (and/or a rack of lamb). I know the Hell's Kitchen Western Beef probably has it, but in my experience, the quality of Chinatown butchers has been a bit higher for other meats, at least. A friend mentioned a place that he says is off of Mott St that he thinks sells these kinds of larger cuts, but he wasn't able to give me a name or specific address. Does anyone know what he's talking about or have other recommendations on where to look? Thanks!