■ INSIDE ■ BOOKS Letters 2 & Crime Watch 4 Comfort Confi dence Retail Report 5 Within two blocks of Fillmore, two stars Food & Drink 7 Home Sales 14 of the food world launch new cookbooks Body & Soul 15 PAGES 10 & 11 THE NEW FILLMORE
SANSAN FRANCISCO FRANCISCO ■ ■DECEMBER APRIL 2010 2012
A Change of View Ambassador From Pacifi c Heights on Duty in Hungary
By Markos Kounalakis
BUDAPEST, Hungary — Many of my Saturdays used to start out with a saunter down Fillmore Street for an early morning cup of coff ee while the rest of my family was still in bed. Budapest is also a coff eehouse city, but more famed for the conversations and art that grew out of that culture than the cof- fee in the cups. It has been three years since we left the neighborhood and moved to a country that only a generation ago was behind the Iron Curtain. As I look outside my offi ce here, I see the Statue of Liberty — not the one in New York harbor, but the one atop Gel- lert Hill in Budapest, erected by the Soviets after World War II. From her offi ce win- dow, my wife looks toward a Soviet monument in the middle of Szabad- sag ter — Freedom Square — a golden star topping the prominent stone memorial. From our apart- ment in Pacifi c Heights, we looked out on the bay, the sailboats and the container ships The Kounalakises in crossing under their apartment on the Golden Gate Steiner Street. Bridge. President Obama marveled at the view during the couple of times he visited our home before assuming offi ce. He later appointed my wife Eleni Tsakopoulos-Kounalakis as the U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Hun- gary — a complex and demanding job that brought our family to beautiful Budapest. Early on in our tenure here, we went through a Hungarian national election and a change in government, a revised consti- tution and a six-month European Union presidency. We’ve had many offi cial visitors One-of-a-kind dolls in a one-of-a-kind shop from President Obama’s Cabinet, topped by two memorable working visits: one from Photograph by For more than three decades, Narumi on Fillmore has offered a unique selection Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, the other CARINA WOUDENBERG of Japanese antiques, including porcelain and pottery, kimonos, tansu and tea from our own congresswoman, former ceremony utensils — but it specializes in restoring and selling-one-of-a-kind dolls. Speaker of the House of Representatives STORY & MORE PHOTOGRAPHS | PAGE 6 and now minority leader Nancy Pelosi. TO PAGE 3 X LETTERS LOCALS ABROAD In Hungary, an Ambassador from Pacifi c Heights X FROM PAGE ONE demanding, at every turn I am reminded High-level working visits are a nor- that San Francisco is far away, and mal part of embassy life and during last we still have moments of longing for year’s opening of the Lantos Institute, home. Congressman Tom Lantos’s extended Our kids’ names are on the chil- family all came to celebrate in Hun- dren’s playground tiles at Alta Plaza gary. Th e Lantos Institute inauguration Park; Calvary Presbyterian Church coincided with the unveiling by the is where their scout troops meet; and Hungarian government of a large statue fi lm director Christopher Columbus’s of former President Ronald Reagan. house on Jackson Street is a place they Reagan is looked on with great approached with trepidation during admiration by the Central Europeans their Halloween trick-or-treating. for his role in confronting the Soviet Th e Mayfl ower Market at Fillmore Union. His legacy — along with that and Jackson was a local touchstone for of Pope John Paul II and Mikhail Gor- us. Th ree brothers from Greece run the DANIEL BAHMANI Robert Bell: “I don’t think anyone can know everything about the piano.” bachev — is considered instrumental in market and we would regularly go down ending the Cold War. to the store so our kids could chat in Our upstairs neighbor back in San Greek with our local grocers, who were Francisco, avid Democratic supporter always looking out for our guys as they A Fabricated Flight of Fancy Susie Tompkins Buell, was visit- grew up. ing when the new Reagan statue was I used to ride my Ducati motorcycle to the editors: such by the school I graduated from — unveiled — an event also attended by all year in San Francisco, a great way to hank you for your recent not by me — and is a degree require- those on the other end of the political get around town without ever worrying article about the Piano Care ment, not an entrance exam. If the exam spectrum, including former Secretary of about parking. I had it shipped over to Co. [“A Portal to Another is so diffi cult, how can it be that I don’t T State Condoleezza Rice, former Attor- Hungary, but now it stays in a garage Time,” November.] Unfortunately, your know how to play? When asked, my Secretary of State Hillary Clinton with Markos and Eleni Tsakopoulos-Kounalakis. ney General Ed Meese and former about half the year, since the winters are reporter’s imagination exceeds her jour- standard response is that I play poorly, Cailfornia Governor Pete Wilson. We a lot colder than at home. nalistic skills, and the resulting article like so many other piano technicians. An kept a close eye on our neighbor, but everyone peacefully Everywhere there are signs of the communist past, Th e neighborhood around upper Fillmore Street is a is strongest in upholding the tradition overactive imagination is also evidenced broke bread together in the ornate halls of the Parliament from the massive apartment blocks to the unexploded glorious and privileged one. We have been able to live in of factual error, misrepresentation and in the preceding line, which describes building. bomb uncovered in front of the U.S. Embassy left over Pacifi c Heights because of the opportunities America and fabrication that is a common feature of me as a “rock star.” While I did play in a I was regularly in Hungary from 1989 to 1991 cover- from World War II. Sometimes we fi nd ourselves in California made possible for me and my immigrant fam- writing when the goal is to romanticize band in the late 1970s, I never achieved ing the fall of communism in the region for Newsweek Monument Park, where only Stalin’s boots remain on a ily. Th is type of social mobility and educational opportu- the arts, artists or artisans. “star” status — whatever that is — much magazine, then moved to the Soviet Union in 1991 and pedestal that once held a mighty statue. Even the types nity is available in few places in the world and nowhere While I could fi ll up the page with a less local notoriety. stayed there for a year. I quickly learned to join any queue of movies we watch are not likely to be found at the Clay more than in our country. You see this to a greater degree long list of examples, I simply point out 2. I have never said and never will say, I spotted. In a place where goods were scarce, a queue Th eater. Our kids watch training fi lms produced by the when you live overseas. that the article begins with a fabricated “I know everything about the piano.” was usually a good sign there was something to be had Hungarian secret police in the 1960s — black and white During our tour of service in Europe, we have exper– fl ight of fancy (our front door is neither Th e piano is a far too complex set of at the front of it. Unfortunately, the habit has not died; I footage teaching citizens and agents how to spy on each ienced a change of views, but we have not lost sight of “hand carved” nor “antique”) and ends changing relationships and a fi eld that still fi nd myself slowing down to jump into any queue in other. our love for our friends and neighbors and our life back with a misattributed quote (my wife, not off ers an opportunity for lifelong — Hungary, no matter how long. While our time here is fascinating and the work home. my daughter, is the source of “dancing and I emphasize lifelong — learning. on the music”). Th e majority of what I don’t think anyone can know every- is placed between these bookends is of thing about the piano, and there are similar quality and nature, being either many whose knowledge exceeds mine Come Join Our Advent Celebrations! erroneous, imaginatively created or a greatly. St. Dominic’s Catholic Church confusion of the few facts you do get I repeat, I understand it is a com- Sunday, December 2 right. mon feature of this type of writing to Advent Lessons & Carols, t. Dominic’s warmly invites you to celebrate the Advent 7:30 pm, Church Nave Th e article didn’t even manage to get be excessively creative, and was quite my relatively simple name correct. It is willing to let most of that stuff slide. & Christmas Seasons in our beautiful church... Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception (A Holy Day of Obligation) Saturday, December 8, Masses: Bell, not Del. See what I mean? But to have those arrogant and absurd Weekday Masses: 8:00 am, 9:30 am 3 Vigil Mass on Friday, December 7, 5:30 pm, 7:30 pm While the accompanying photo- words put into my mouth is distasteful, 6:30 & 8:00 am; 5:30 pm graphs are fl attering, and I thank you off ensive and a complete misrepresenta- Morning Prayer: 7:15 am (weekdays); 8:00 am (Saturday) Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebrations, Sunday, December 9 for that, I was genuinely shocked to tion of myself and my attitude about my Evening Prayer: 5:00 pm (daily) 1:30 pm Mass (en español), Church Nave; Reception follows in the Parish Hall see a picture of myself over a supposed work. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament: Thursday, December 13 “quote” that is a total fabrication, namely I have no desire to appear ungrate- Mondays & Wednesdays: 8:30 am & 6:00 pm s First Fridays: 9:00 pm (Sign-up required) Parish Advent Party & Caroling, that “I know everything about the piano ful and truly appreciate your eff orts to 6:00 pm, Parish Hall Sunday Masses: except how to play.” Allow me to deal give us more exposure, but I would also Family Christmas Pageant, Sunday, December 16, with the two parts of this absurd cre- appreciate whatever you can do in terms Saturday evening: 5:30 pm (Vigil), 7:30 am (Quiet), 9:30 am (Family), 11:30 am (Solemn) 3:30 pm, Church Nave 1:30 pm (St. Jude Pilgrim Mass in Spanish), 5:30 pm (Contemporary music) ation in reverse order. of retractions, corrections and apologies. 9:00 pm (Taizé music by candlelight) Annual Christmas Concert, Monday, December 17, 7:30 pm 1. Th e last sentence of the paragraph One of the major assets in any business Church Nave, St. Dominic’s Solemn Mass Choir with strings & harp that begins with this fabrication is “To is reputation, and I have no desire to Tuesday, December 18 7:30 pm get into the school, he’d had to pass a be known as the idiot who thinks he Advent Twilight Retreat, , Lady Chapel (Preparation for Confession) diffi cult set of tests he calls “the piano “know(s) everything about the piano.” barrier.” Th e piano barrier is labeled as Robert Bell Confessions, Wednesday, December 19 12:00 Noon – 1:00 pm & 7:30 – 9:00 pm, Church Nave
Come Join Our Christmas 2012 Celebrations!
Christmas Eve, Monday, December 24 Advent Masses: 6:30 am & 8:00 am THE NEW FILLMORE Christmas Eve Vigil Masses: newfi llmore.com 4:00 pm (Mass for Families with Toddlers) 6:00 pm (Mass for Families with Children) 11:15 pm Carol service followed by Solemn Mass at Midnight 2130 Fillmore Street #202 ■ San Francisco, CA 94115 ■ 415.441.6070 No confessions today editors@newfi llmore.com Christmas Day, Tuesday, December 25 Editors | Barbara Kate Repa & Thomas R. Reynolds Masses at 7:30 am (Quiet Mass with Carols), Production | Ginny Lindsay Proofreader | Donna Gillespie 9:30 am (Parish Mass with Carols), Marketing Manager | Alison Short 11:30 am (Solemn Mass with Choral Music), 1:30 pm (en español) No confessions today and no Masses at 5:30 pm or 9:00 pm START AT 2:00-6:00 PM KIEHL’S Advertising inquiries ads@newfi llmore.com or 415.441.6070 Published on the fi rst weekend of each month. Deadline: 20th of prior month Solemnity of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary & Joseph Sunday, December 30 Subscriptions by mail are available for $30 per year. Please send a check. Masses at 7:30 am, 9:30 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, 5:30 pm & 9:00 pm Vigil Masses on Saturday, December 29, 5:30 pm Connecting the neighborhood Solemnity of Mary the Holy Mother of God Every month, 20,000 copies of the New Fillmore are delivered to homes and Tuesday, January 1, 2013 businesses in the Fillmore, Pacifi c Heights and Japantown. We thank you for (A Holy Day of Obligation) Masses at 9:30 am & 5:30 pm your support and encouragement and welcome your ideas and suggestions. Vigil Mass on Monday, December 31, 5:30 pm
newfi llmore.com | updates, videos and an archive of back issues 2390 Bush St. (at Steiner) t Free Parking t (415) 567-7824 www.stdominics.org
2 NEW FILLMORE December 2012 December 2012 NEW FILLMORE 3 ii«ÊÞÕÀÊÛÃÌÀà CRIME WATCH RETAIL REPORT Handel’s MEMESSIAH ÊÌ iÊi} LÀ ` Prana Brings Yogawear, More in Grace Cathedral Methamphetamine, Probation Violation Petty Th eft Thursday December 20 2012 7:30 pm Fillmore and Clay Streets Webster Street and Geary Boulevard Born in a Southern California garage, now on Fillmore Friday December 21 2012 7:30 pm October 29, 3 a.m. November 5, 4:30 p.m. JeffrJJeffJeJffeeffreffffrff eyeyyT T homahomhohoomaommaass- - ArtArtiAArAtAtiAirtrtitissticststittictiicic DirDDiirecectoectcctocttttooror Offi cers on patrol spotted a man cross- A security guard at Safeway saw a man hose familiar with the Prana label duced to climbing and yoga, the couple Saturday December 22 2012 7:30 pm ing the street outside the crosswalk and putting packages of meat in his backpack Grace Cathedral, California & Taylor Streets probably associate it with the envi- was inspired to create a line of clothing and SAN FRANCISCO stopped to advise him of the violation. Th e along with several candy bars, deodorant Tronmentally conscious yoga apparel accessories for yogis and climbers looking man was on probation, so the offi cers con- and rolls of toilet paper. Th en he walked found in many sporting goods stores. for functional, comfortable activewear with Presented in the breathtaking setting of ducted a search. After they found a baggie out of the store. Th e security guard fol- But during the last 15 years, the company an eye toward sustainability. San Francisco’s landmark Grace Cathedral, containing methamphetamine in one of his lowed the suspect, detained him and called has expanded so Fillmore ABS’s performances of Handel’s enduring pockets, he was placed under arrest. the police. Th e stolen items were valued at that Prana is resident Chuck masterwork are celebrated as one of Northern Michael W. Perry $89.44. Th e man was cited, given a court no longer just Smith was the California’s most treasured holiday traditions. & Company Driving Under the Infl uence date and released. for the pretzel- store’s fi rst Fillmore and Post Streets minded — and customer. He Order online for advance purchase instant discount. Tickets start at $20. Fine Custom Framing November 2, 2:30 a.m. Petty Th eft its new store at reports: Antique Prints & Maps ÓÓΣÊ*iÊ-ÌÀiiÌÊÊ Two offi cers observed a car stopped in Eddy and Laguna Streets 1928 Fillmore As a yoga stu- iÌÜiiÊ7iLÃÌiÀÉÀi the middle of the intersection. Offi cers November 9, 8:30 p.m. Street off ers dent, my inter- americanbach.org (415) 621-7900 1837 Divisadero • 415-563-8853 {£x°Î{È°££ÊUÊÜÜÜ°>ÀÌÃÌðV smelled a strong odor of alcohol on the A woman was riding a Muni bus when prime evidence est was piqued www.mwperry.com driver’s breath and observed that his eye- her iPhone was snatched out of her hand. of that. as soon as I saw lids drooped. Th en they saw three open An off -duty offi cer on his way home heard Th ere’s a the signs go up a beer cans on the back seat. Th ey asked the the description of the suspect on his police small section on few months ago driver to exit the vehicle. He responded, radio. Soon afterward, the offi cer saw a the upper level touting the new “When I’m done with you, you’ll be work- man matching the description walking dedicated to arrival. And as ing in Alaska.” Th e offi cers continued their with four other individuals. Th e off -duty yoga pants, tops, Prana's new store is located at 1928 Fillmore. I walked by on investigation, conducting a fi eld sobriety offi cer called for assistance. Responding mats, towels and the morning test. When the driver failed, he was placed offi cers stopped the individuals, and one totes — and the ubiquitous-again head- of November 7, the windows were fi nally under arrest. A computer check revealed he man dropped the backpack he was carry- bands. But the rest of the shop is stocked unpapered, revealing a store fi lled with #!,)&/2.)! 3(%,, was on probation for a past arrest involving ing. During their investigation, the offi cers chockful of cozy clothing perfect for San much more than yoga clothes and mats. As !54/ 3%26)#% 2%0!)2 driving under the infl uence. Th ere was also located an iPhone in the backpack. Th ey Francisco winters and summers: cords and I pulled on the door, a gentleman said, “11 a court order mandating that his vehicle were unable to unlock the phone and the jeans, sweater dresses, coats and jackets, a.m.” I had breakfast, then headed back. À>iÃÊEÊ/Àià have an ignition interlock device, and he suspect said he did not know the pass code. knit hats, scarves and sweaters fashioned Prana is one of those inviting stores iVÊ }iÊ } Ìà was driving with a suspended license. He He claimed that he had found the phone. from washable wool. where you just want to hang out. So I did. «ÕÌiÀÊ >}ÃÌVà was booked at county jail. Th e suspect, who was 15 years old, was “Prana makes interesting clothing — Megan, a friendly sales associate, helped >VÌÀÞÊ-V i`Õi`Ê >Ìi>Vi listed in the system as a runaway. He was and does it as sustainably as possible, using me, explaining with great knowledge the £x ]ÊÎä ]Ê{x ]ÊÈä ÊEÊä Ê-iÀÛVià Possession of Fraudulent Checks booked at the Youth Guidance Center. fair trade factories,” according to store details of each piece I tried. }Ê-ÞÃÌiÊEÊ/À>ÃÃÃÊ*ÀLià Resisting Arrest manager Kai Shane, who says the company As I checked out, Kai, Megan and -}Ê/iÃÌÃÊEÊ,i«>ÀÃÊvÀÊ>ÕÀi Van Ness Avenue and California Street Possession of Switchblade chose Fillmore for its sixth store after being another employee gathered around and >ÌÌiÀiÃÊEÊ-Ì>ÀÌ}Ê*ÀLià November 2, 12:20 p.m. and Narcotics Paraphernalia beckoned by the “community and human told me I was their very fi rst customer. Very ÀÊ,i«>ÀÃÊvÊ>Ê/Þ«ià 1,"* ÊUÊ* - ÊUÊ , A bank called police concerning a man Van Ness Avenue and Hemlock Street feeling” of the street. cool. After a commemorative photo, I was attempting to pass a forged check. When November 13, 1 a.m. Th e company was born in 1992 in on my way. >ÃÌ]ÊÀi`ÞÊEÊÕ>À>Ìii` offi cers arrived, bank employees advised Plainclothes offi cers came upon a fi ght Carlsbad, California, in the garage of Pam But I’ll be back. Besides, my yogi wife Óxä£Ê >vÀ>Ê>ÌÊ-ÌiiÀÊÊÊUÊÊÊ{£x®ÊxÈÇÈx£Ó them the suspect had run into the rest- between a man and a woman. Th e male and Beaver Th eodosakis. After being intro- hasn’t seen it yet. `>ÞÊÌ ÀÕ} ÊÀ`>ÞÊÊnÊ>°°ÊÌÊÈÊ«°° room. When the offi cers opened the rest- suspect approached the offi cers in their room door, the suspect ran out, pushing unmarked car and shouted profanities at past them. After a struggle, the offi cers them. Th e man told the offi cers he had a subdued him. Investigating, offi cers learned switchblade in his pants pocket. When the suspect had opened two separate bank the offi cer seized the knife from the man’s Cruise Into Roberta Freymann and Set Sail for Your Holiday Escape! accounts using false names. He was booked pocket, he felt what he believed to be a on 10 felony charges. meth pipe, and he took this as evidence. Th e man had no identifi cation, so the offi - Possession of Stolen Property cers transported him to Northern Station Resisting Arrest for further investigation. Franklin and Elm Streets November 3, 9 p.m. Parole Violation Offi cers received a call concerning a Laguna and Eddy Streets Roberta Freymann San Francisco: 2055 Fillmore Street, San Francisco, CA s 415.563.8595 man who was peering inside vehicles, and November 15, 3:30 p.m. set up surveillance. While they watched, A man who saw an individual harass- a man shattered the window of a parked ing people at a bus stop fl agged down the car, then reached inside and pulled out a police. Th e offi cers approached the suspect, backpack. Th e suspect walked away from who appeared to be intoxicated. A com- the vehicle, carrying the backpack over puter check revealed he was on parole. Th e his shoulder. When the offi cers pursued parole agent informed them that the sus- him, the suspect ran. Gradually the offi cers pect has a “no drinking” clause as part of his caught up to him; one offi cer injured his release condition. Th e parole agent advised hand while taking him into custody. Th e the offi cers to revoke his parole. Th e offi cers suspect was 16 years old. then placed the suspect under arrest.
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4 NEW FILLMORE December 2012 December 2012 NEW FILLMORE 5 ■ TREASURES FOOD & DRINK
By Patricia Unterman Th en have a little plate of Adana kebabs ($10), very soft, juicy, minced lamb with s an immersive traveler, I adopt a perky fennel salad and yogurt sauce. A the diet of everyplace I go. When bigger plate of marinated lamb kebabs A I get back to San Francisco I ($17) are equally juicy, skewered with fi re- actually feel homesick for the food, the air, blacked onions and zucchini, accompanied the pace, of the places I visit. Th is happened with smoky eggplant puree. A huge when I recently returned from villages and terracotta casserole of moussaka ($17) can provincial cities in southeastern Turkey be shared. It’s a dreamy dish with layers of along the Syrian border. I just wanted to aromatically seasoned minced lamb, satiny eat Turkish. eggplant and creamy bechamel. So I walked over to Troya on Fillmore, I end every meal with baklava, so crisp, the new branch of a spare, stylish light, nutty and buttery, some of the best I’ve restaurant that identifi es itself as Turkish- ever tasted anywhere. Even if you think you Mediterranean. I adjusted my hopes, don’t like baklava, try it here. Guess who knowing that I was not going to fi nd the makes it — the Turkish woman. Troya’s
same kind of rustic Turkish cooking I had DANIEL BAHMANI kunefe, layers of buttery shredded fi lo and fallen so hard for. But what I ate at Troya At Troya, the Turkish woman in a head scarf has a delicate hand with pastries and dough. melted white cheese baked in the oven to delighted me. Th e hospitable spirit felt the order and sweetened at the end with sugar same and the kitchen embraced vegetables, syrup, is a restrained and excellent version spices, yogurt and lamb. California-style — if you haven’t been spoiled by the one I leafy green salads that I never saw in A Taste of Turkey had in the market in Antakya. Western and Turkey were on the menu, of course, and eastern palates equally will like a strong some fusiony items like dolmas stuff ed Th e authentic fl avors of Troya on Fillmore coff ee-fl avored chocolate custard served Narumi offers with pre-braised lamb. in a mini-mason jar topped with labneh, a antique Japanese When I caught a glimpse of a little paved with a succulent topping of minced chef, Philip Busacco, a six-year veteran dollop of thick yogurt. treasures, Turkish woman in a head scarf and apron beef, roasted peppers, onions, garlic and of Terzo, can also constitute a meal. Drink moderately priced Turkish wine. including meticulously in the partially open kitchen at the back, Turkish chile. Another fl atbread, folded Start with Turkish red lentil soup ($6), a Finish with mint tea in glasses. And count crafted dolls. who looked like the women who cooked over a velvety fi lling of smoky roasted delicious puree enlivened with a drizzle of yourself lucky that you can get an authentic for me in their homes in small villages eggplant and fresh white cheese, is also a olive oil and mint and a squeeze of lemon. taste of this lush cuisine right here in the near Antakya and Gazientep, bingo. Th e must order. (Busacco uses fresh mint; it’s better with neighborhood. accommodating Turkish wait staff at Troya As a dumpling lover, I can’t resist manti, dried mint and Maras pepper heated in Troya, at 2125 Fillmore (between told me all the things she prepared and I small meat-stuff ed dumplings, a dish sizzling butter). Order dill-scented Persian Sacramento and California), is open daily started right there. constantly served in eastern Turkey and cucumber salad ($7); tender zucchini for lunch and dinner. Call 563-1000 or It turns out that this woman has a throughout Central Asia. Troya’s thumb- fritters with minted yogurt ($8); and warm visit troyasf.com for more information. In a Tiny Shop, a Shrine to Japanese Culture, History delicate hand with pastries and dough nail sized manti ($17), made of toothsome, green beans in an aromatic sweet and sour as evidenced by her Anatolian fl atbreads hand-rolled dough plump with onion- sauce with raisins and a bowl of yogurt on Neighborhood resident Patricia Unterman has Story & Photographs by Carina Woudenberg In addition, Nakamura also cleans and makes any nec- “I’ve been to Asia many times, but never got the chance ($11). Troya’s lahmacun, the ubiquitous scented minced beef fi lling, come swathed the side ($8). Always include a big plate of been a restaurant critic, chef and food writer in essary repairs on the dolls he sells and — when he’s not in to involve myself in the tea ceremonies,” he says. Turkish-style pizza, was one of the best in warm yogurt drizzled with spice-sizzled roasted caulifl ower ($8) fragrantly coated San Francisco for more than 30 years. Subscribe e’s been a San Francisco resident for more than the shop — leads classes in the traditional Japanese tea cer- As a former member of the military, Cowan says I’ve tasted, a small, thin round of tender, butter — Turkish genius. with charred spices, dark Urfa chile fl akes to her newsletter at untermanonfood.com. 30 years, but Jiro Nakamura still makes a yearly emony from his home a he appreciates the structure as well as the beauty in the almost puff pastry-light dough evenly Vibrant meze from Troya’s western and scallions. Htrek home to Japan to search for treasures for his few blocks away. event. shop on Fillmore Street. Th ree nights a week a “Like military marching, there’s a right way to do it,” Th e treasures include dolls — crafted hundreds of years small group of students Cowan says. “When the teacher shows the right way to earlier in many cases — and puppets, tea ceremony gear take part in an elaborate do it — oh, that is so cool. And when you get the right and kimonos fi t for all occasions. Th ey are off ered at Nar- three-hour lesson in Matcha tea, your senses really prick up.” umi, a tiny shop at 1902 Fillmore that Nakamura named how to prepare both the Nakamura gets the tea, and the sweets served with it, for a bakery his parents started in Japan. thick and thin Matcha from Japan. He says he prefers antique Japanese dolls because they tea traditionally used in Sugimoto also looks forward to the one or two nights contain far more detail, especially in the hands and faces. the ceremony. he spends at Nakamura’s tea ceremonies each week. Hav- “In old times, they had more time to make each piece,” Students also learn ing studied with Nakamura for four years, he often helps Nakamura says. how to make fl ower assist the newer students, yet he says he still learns from Shortly after settling into the city decades ago, Naka- arrangements, to put the process himself. mura, now 61, studied fi ne art at San Francisco’s Academy the required utensils Sugimoto and Cowan say their teacher’s home resembles of Art. together properly and his store, with Japanese antiques sprinkled throughout. Previously home to a furniture store and a record shop, to perform all the cere- It can be hard to part with some of the great things he the space on Fillmore was transformed when Nakamura monial rituals. fi nds, Nakamura admits, especially since Japan is running Jiro Nakamura, owner of took it over in 1981 and gave it his own fl air. He painted Narumi at 1902 Fillmore, also Jay Cowan and out of its greatest gems. the portrait of the elegant Japanese woman who stands in leads classes in the traditional Kotaro Sugimoto, own- “So much went all over the world,” Nakamura says. the front entrance. He sews the decorative obi fabric con- Japanese tea ceremony. ers of Kohshi, a shop Th e same is true in the neighborhood, Nakamura says. structions used as wall art and in some of his displays. And specializing in aro- He has watched as Japanese-owned businesses have disap- he makes the stained glass creations that playfully refl ect matherapy and essential oils in Japantown, are both Naka- peared from the neighborhood over the years as their own- the light in the shop’s front window. mura’s students. ers retire. Where there was once a fi sh market, a bakery, a “I wanted to put something I made in my store,” he Cowan says it was curiosity and appreciation for the butcher shop and a sushi to-go restaurant, among others, says. culture that brought him to the tea ceremony classes. now it’s just him and his antiques.
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99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall
At least — plus wine and liquor At Ales Unlimited, at a re-envisioned corner store 80 percent of the inventory les unlimited, the tiny neighborhood shop on is devoted to limited the corner of Webster and Jackson, stocks more production A than 900 beers and ales on its shelves and in its domestic and coolers. And owners Steve and Betty Smith don’t cater foreign beers. to the couch potato crowd or the party-throwers who PHOTOGRAPHS BY buy six-packs of a mass-manufactured bland brand for ERIK ANDERSON backyard bacchanalia. Th e couple would much rather sell a single 12-ounce bottle of Rigor Mortis ABT, inspired by beer made by Bel- Door gin made from wild juniper berries, coriander and When the Smiths bought the space three years ago, thought of catering to a well-traveled clientele but was beers rather than canned, frozen, packaged foods. Th en the Dave Mickle, a recent visitor to the shop. His palate these gian Trappist monks and brewed only once a year. Steve fennel, priced at $39.95. At 94 proof, garnished with a poi- Steve says it was in a shabby state, a “visual thorn in every- wary. “When we lived in Europe, corner markets were light bulb — make it a klieg light — went on. days is quite discriminating and he said the best ale in the will recommend that you slowly savor, not quaff , this barely soned olive, a chilled martini could fi nd its way into the one’s side in the neighborhood.” And back then, the new always going down the drain,” he says. And having Mollie “We realized then it was all or nothing and focused on store for the money is Grimbergen Double Ale, brewed in bitter beer that is intensely malty with a complex sweet- next James Bond script as the perfect fi nal cocktail for his entrepreneurs had no real retailing experience. Stone’s, Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s not far away wasn’t nothing but specialty brands — and only the rarest of the Belgium and sold here for $2.99. ness of chocolate, caramel, red fruit and spice. Th e cost is next archenemy’s last supper. “We had lived in Dublin for 12 years where I was set- exactly comforting. rare ales, beers, wines and liquors,” he says. Th e only foods For those thirsty for a stout, Old Rasputin Russian $6.95 for a beer scoring 99 percent from ratebeer.com. His ■ ting up call centers for Gateway Computers,” he says. ■ that survived the cut were items that could be speared on a Imperial Stout brewed by North Coast Brewery in Fort counsel is on the house. “A customer walks in here and wants something unique, “Th en I was importing wheels and suspension systems “But when you have a great neighborhood, you listen to toothpick or fl oated in a cocktail. Bragg is $2.49. Or for something hoppy and malty, try St. Ales Unlimited is more than a Never Never Land for rare or very diffi cult to fi nd,” Steve Smith says. from Europe to the U.S. for Mercedes, Audi and BMW your neighbors and they had been so neglected for so long, Th e Smiths transformed 2398 Webster into an ale Feuillien Triple at $299 for a nine liter bottle. But check passionate lovers of rare ales and craft beers. While 80 Th at pretty much describes the stock of the shop itself. and building and modifying show cars.” we decided to keep it as a grocery store and upgrade the emporium, with its 15-foot ceiling, two new gleaming fi rst to make sure it’s on the shelf; another customer drives percent of the inventory is devoted to limited production But only recently has it had any personality. From what He adds: “One day we asked ourselves what we could quality of everything,” Smith says. Striking up conversa- chrome and glass coolers and handsome wooden shelves. in regularly from Sacramento to stock up. domestic and foreign brews, much of the store is fi lled with Smith has unearthed from city records, the 900-square- do that was diff erent, and started looking around to buy a tions with customers, the Smiths asked for suggestions of Th e store is festooned with discreet neon signs for diff er- Christine Gardner, who walked in purposefully one unusual wines you won’t fi nd in most other liquor stores. foot retail space was built in 1900 as part of a structure little store.” what they would like to see on the shelves. ent ales that would make any collector salivate. Aisles are recent afternoon, raves about the wine selection. “Th is is And some of the stock is the more popular premium spir- that includes a Victorian home and four fl ats. All are still Originally, Betty Smith thought the Webster and “I can tell you they weren’t asking for Budweiser,” he narrow but easily navigated. And Steve and Betty are on the only place in town where I’ve found a wine I really love its and one-of-a-kind American bourbons, ryes, gins and standing; the Smiths live in one of the fl ats. Jackson location would make a good neighborhood cof- says. “Th ey wanted Belgian beers and, of course, German the job seven days a week, skillfully answering questions to drink,” she says. Her discovery? Th e Stuhlmuller Vine- Scotch whiskies in unique sizes. Example: Th e alehouse He contends the space is the oldest existing corner store fee shop, but Steve disagreed. “Why would we want to beers — maybe because the German Consulate is just up on ale and food and wine pairings and pointing out which yards estate chardonnay from Alexander Valley, $22.95. sells a half-pint and a “tenth” — 375 ml — of Grey Goose in the area and says it opened as the Pacifi c Heights Mar- go up against Starbucks and all the other coff ee shops the street.” whiskies would make a velvety smooth Manhattan. Too bad the Smiths can’t squeeze in a couple of stools vodka for someone who might want a short shot before ket around 1920. A sepia-tinted photo displayed inside the down on Fillmore?” he asked. Another idea was rejuve- Globetrotting neighbors would come home and ask the ■ and section off a mini tasting area. As it happens, they the cocktail hour. front door shows two stout women standing in front of nating and upgrading the grocery store, stocking it with grocers if they could fi nd a delightful drink they had in Ales Unlimited’s customers are also good sources for have the same idea. And so do a couple hundred neighbors And here’s something that could take the edge off a canned goods and behind bushel barrels piled high with more imported foods and delicacies that would appeal to Heidelberg or Hawaii. It dawned on them that most of tips on what to quaff . who’ve recently signed a petition lobbying for just that. tough day or make an unforgettable gift: a fi fth of Death’s fruit. the appetites of sophisticated neighbors. Smith liked the the requests were libational, especially small-batch ales and “I started out drinking Coors Light in college,” says Stay tuned. LOVE YOUR SKIN
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8 NEW FILLMORE December 2012 December 2012 NEW FILLMORE 9 BOOKS Helping Answer the Recurring Joanne Weir’s Cheese Wiz Takes on a Classic Cooking By Laura Werlin But home is where the oven is, and Question: What’s for Dinner? there began the real work. All those Confidence n any given morning, I words on paper had to translate to By Joanne Weir miered a new cooking show and started an can usually be spotted great-tasting food. Invariably, I would online retail store via Open Sky. Th at’s on Weeknight Dinners Osprinting somewhere in schlep bags of groceries up my stairs, hile gathering fodder for my top of cooking classes in my kitchen, culi- Made Simple the neighborhood. As the author of pretend to organize their contents and 17th cookbook, I decided to nary journeys to the Mediterranean and six books about cheese, exercise is get to work. Th at meant putting pots canvass people and fi nd out writing for magazines. W From the the non-negotiable part of the daily of water on the stove to boil for the whether they like to cook — and if not, But the question still arises: What’s for hit public television regimen. Besides, jogging takes me pasta, opening cartons of milk and why not? I kept hearing the same answer dinner? I want something that’s easy, deli- show past houses, gardens and other local cream for the sauces, grating pounds Tips for great over and over again: “I don’t cook because I cious, healthy and doesn’t break the bank. features I wouldn’t otherwise see. of cheese and prepping the rest of the mac & cheese don’t have confi dence.” If your own busyness leaves you in So just after landing an assignment ingredients that would make a genuine As a chef, I take a lot for granted, but this quandary, you might fi nd the help to write a book showcasing 50 recipes 50 recipe book, rather than one recipe What I’ve learned: I was shocked to fi nd out that people you need in Cooking Confi dence: Weeknight for mac & cheese nearly a year ago, off 50 ways. ■ Use cheeses that you love to thought the word “temper” had only to do Dinners Made Simple, just published by I sprinted — armed with a shopping Because my sister Andi works a few eat on their own, preferably ones with anger and “ribbon” was something Taunton Press. Th e book is fi lled with 100 that have a lot of fl avor and melt list a mile long of getting-started mac blocks away at the Mt. Zion campus well. A fl avorless cheese won’t taste tied around a present. recipes simple enough & cheese ingredients. Writing the of UCSF, she and her colleagues at the better when it’s melted. I thought everyone to make for a home recipes before attempting them allows Cancer Resource Center received many ■ Use a variety of cheeses for knew how to temper How to boil an egg meal on Tuesday night me to have a framework from which of the spoils from my experiments. In different fl avors and textures. eggs, ribbon egg yolks but “wow” enough to to operate, not to mention a shopping return, their mandate was to answer Certain cheeses like blue, goat and sugar, proof yeast, For a perfect hard-cooked egg serve for company on and brie become creamy but they with a golden center: Bring a list. Once in the kitchen, the recipes the simple question: “Did you like it?” never become oozy. So think whip egg whites and pot of water to a boil. Lower Saturday. For every invariably get tweaked or outright With my sister leading the charge, about combining a good melter scald milk. To cater to the eggs into the water and recipe I’ve added wine scrapped. they steadfastly provided invaluable like Gruyère or Fontina with a this need in cooks, my boil for exactly 8 minutes. suggestions, as well as Unless you’re Rachael Ray, the observations that informed the fi nal creamy cheese like goat or blue for new cooking show for Remove and place in a bowl suggestions on what In her new book and public television series shot advance money cookbook authors get recipes. An offi cial recipe-tester did maximum cheesiness and texture. public television — of ice water. After 5 minutes, to serve as a simple ■ remove the eggs and crack is usually a pretty paltry sum. So I had the heavy lifting. Salt the pasta water — a shot right here in the fi rst course and for here in the neighborhood, Joanne Weir lot. Cooking pasta in unsalted or the shells against a work to be judicious about where to shop for Laura Werlin’s new book In four short weeks, Mac & Cheese, undersalted water results in bland, neighborhood — and surface. Place the eggs back dessert. off ers both recipes and techniques. which ingredients. Please! was born. But fi nishing the useless carbs. Instead, add plenty my new cookbook are in the water for 5 minutes. Importantly, there Safeway became the go-to for on mac & cheese, born in recipes and the accompanying text of salt — about one tablespoon for called Cooking Confi - Peel the eggs. See? Perfect! are lots of photographs pasta. (“Club card customers! Two the neighborhood, is was just the fi rst part of the process. every three quarts of water — and dence. — JOANNE WEIR that take you through cellar. Th e book off ers a fun list of items to something you might never have cooked for one!”) Whole Foods off ered After that, there were innumerable you’ll fi nd your mac & cheese has a Most people don’t the steps in many include. We’ve got some great places in the before. lot more fl avor overall. the needed variety of cheeses and simple yet playful. backs and forths with the editor, go crazy thinking cooking techniques — neighborhood to shop like Whole Foods, I’ve wrapped up all the confi dence- ■ Finally, make sure the pasta produce and Mollie Stone’s was a best photo shoots with San Francisco- size is small. Think small elbow about what to make for breakfast or lunch; the idea being that once you master a new Mollie Stone’s, Vino and D&M Wine & building tips, tricks and recipes for mak- friend because it was always nearby based photographer Maren Caruso macaroni, small or medium shells it’s dinner that’s the daily dilemma. technique and have success making a new Liquor. You can also order some of my ing delicious home-cooked meals into this when I forgot something — which was often. Th e bread for my and countless t-crossings and i-dottings. and the like. If it’s larger than that, Even as a professional chef, I struggle recipe, you realize there’s no reason to be newly released Joanne Weir Wines online book. With this book in hand in your own breadcrumbs mostly came from La Boulange, as did the canneles At last, my new baby has arrived. And as with parenting, it the pasta will become the focus. with that issue. Like you, I’m incredibly intimidated. You’ll have the confi dence to at shop.joanneweir.com and have them kitchen, it will be like having me by your to provide a sweet break. And the myriad cafes along Fillmore takes a village. So it is that the Fillmore village helped birth this Great mac & cheese should always busy. Th is year, I launched my own wine try another recipe. You’ll soon discover that delivered right to your door. side, whispering in your ear, encouraging be about the cheese. Street provided safe havens and lots of tea while I was slogging simple yet playful little book by providing all the provisions any label, opened my fi rst restaurant — Copita cooking isn’t rocket science. Th en get yourself into the kitchen, tie an you, guiding you — and giving you confi - — LAURA WERLIN through the text and recipe-writing. mac & cheese lover — and fortunate resident — could want. in Sausalito — created an iPad app, pre- Start by stocking your pantry and wine apron around your waist and try cooking dence every step of the way.
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10 NEW FILLMORE December 2012 December 2012 NEW FILLMORE 11 ■ Q & A | DAVID THOMSON light is not refl ected light, it is light coming producers, which they never were before. directly toward you and that’s a big diff er- And each movie became a new one-off . It ence. And you are in control of the expe- became much harder to have a character rience, in control of the device. Th ere will or type carry over from one movie to the Th e Story of the Movies, be interruptions, simple household inter- next. ruptions. You can pause the movie. Many Today, George Clooney has achieved a people just skip to the scene they want to certain “George Clooneyness” that he can By an Eminent Film Critic see and hop over the rest of the movie. slip into. Tom Cruise used to have that, but But technology is bound to change. he has gotten a bit too old for it. But there By Mark Mitchell San Francisco?” — which is a city I’d never You can try to resist it, you can say, “I don’t is no way anyone is going to be like, say, seen — but I said, “Sure.” Everyone says want this technology.” At the beginning of John Wayne again. avid thomson’s Th e New Bio- San Francisco is a wonderful place to live. the talkies people said, “We don’t need the graphical Dictionary of Film is sound; the pictures are so expressive as they Is television using up talent, or is it Dconsidered a must-have refer- Your newest book, Th e Big Screen: Th e are.” Of course, the marketplace wasn’t hav- educating that talent? Television is much ence by almost all serious movie buff s. But Story of the Movies, is both a reference ing any of that. closer to the studio system. Actors work Th omson is more than just a fi lm critic, book and a history of the movies. Is it long days on tight schedules with the same more even than a fi lm historian. His works meant to be read straight through? Th ere’s Are there any movies that you would core of writers and the same crew. A lot of include a biography of novelist Laurence no way to tell how someone will read a say have to be experienced on the big things we’ve seen on TV lately — in the Sterne, an account of the Scott Antarctic book these days. And it’s about more than screen to be appreciated? When you last 10 years or a little more — are more expedition and a brooding meditation on just the movies: It’s from Muybridge to see Psycho with an audience it is scarier, entertaining, more human, more grown-up the state of Nevada, along with a few nov- Facebook. It’s a book about media, really, because the rest of the audience is scared. than what we see in the movies. els and some autobiographical works. In through moving imagery. It’s meant to be It is also funnier and more tender. But any his ambitious Have You Seen… Th omson read through. But once you get the hang of movie you see, if you have the option, see it Do you ever get to turn off your inner presents his take on 1,000 fi lms, pointing it, you can read this book how you like. on a big screen with an audience. Certainly critic and just watch a picture? I try, but out the wonderful ones like a favorite uncle anything by Terrence Malick or Fritz Lang. it’s hard, because if I get really interested showing you something shiny. In the past, movies came out and then Of course, the opportunity to prefer that is in a picture, I want to write about it. Th at’s Born in London in 1941, but a neigh- went away. Now everybody can get every- running out on us. the nice thing about fl ipping the dial on borhood resident for the last three decades, thing on demand. How does this aff ect the television and coming across an old he still speaks with a soft English accent. how we look at the history of movies? because some things go out of print — you distributors want to put things on digital. We obviously have movie stars these movie you haven’t seen in 10 or 20 years. Farrar, Straus and Giroux has just pub- Th ere was a time when you had to wait can get just about everything. So we lose and we gain. days — you have written your own love You get to just sit back and see what you lished Th omson’s 23rd book, Th e Big Screen: years, literally, to see certain movies because But of course the trouble is, you see it in a letter to Nicole Kidman in a biography remember. Th e Story of the Movies — a good time to they didn’t really make old movies available. diff erent form. You see it on your television Does watching a fi lm at home, on of her — but not in the same way that we catch up on his ruminations about life, fi lm Th e classic example, for me, is Citizen Kane, set; maybe you see it on your computer. It’s whatever type of device, diff er from the had in the days of the studio system. Back I am a big fan of your novels such as and the future. which didn’t make itself available to me a diff erent size image, it’s a diff erent quality communal experience of a movie theater? then you could think of a part as being a Suspects and Silver Light. Any more nov- until 1955. And looking back on it, while it image, and it’s a whole diff erence between Well, it’s no longer the awesome experi- “Jimmy Stewart part” or a “Bette Davis els on the way? I hope to write more fi c- How did you fi nd yourself living near was frustrating in those days, it was also a you and the image. So yes, we’re blessed in ence it once was. When I was growing up, role.” Do any of our contemporary stars tion than non-fi ction as I go along. I have Fillmore Street? My wife, Lucy Gray, got trade-off . Th ere was a kind of treasure hunt one sense. But we have a problem — and you often saw movies in large, decorated have a distinctive screen persona? No, written fi ve or six fi ction screenplays, but a job in San Francisco. We had resolved to to it, because you kept your eyes open for it the problem is only going to get greater, theaters. You were packed in the dark with I don’t think so. Back in those days, stars none of them have been produced. It still move to California and we thought that it and you were listening for news of it. because it’s getting harder and harder to a group of strangers and the picture was existed as the property of the studio, which may happen. Th e only screenplay of mine We will always be your local general store. would be Los Angeles. She came out ahead But in recent years, we have been in a see good prints, 35 millimeter prints, of as big as a house and you experienced the thought of them as types of automobiles. that has made it to the screen is the docu- : of me, looking for a job, and went to L.A. position to see nearly anything we might the classics on a big screen. So you get to powerful feeling that it was out of your con- Being your own make and model seemed mentary about the making of Gone With HOURS fi rst, but nothing clicked. Th en she heard want. If you use places like Le Video and my age and you say to yourself, “Th is may trol. Th e movie would roll over you. Th ere to be the defi nition of stardom. When the the Wind. I prefer to write books, though. Monday - Friday : 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (paint to 6 p.m.) about a job up here, and got it. She called Netfl ix, and you have friends with col- be the last time I get to see this fi lm on was a magnifi cence that overawed me. studio system broke down, the stars got When I write something, I like to see it, Saturday & Sunday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. me and said, “Would it be okay if it was lections — which is a very valuable asset, a big screen.” Because you know that the Now you are bigger than the image. Th e much more control; many of them became and it’s nice to see it on a page. FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK
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12 NEW FILLMORE December 2012 December 2012 NEW FILLMORE 13 NEIGHBORHOOD HOME SALES BODY & SOUL
Single Family Homes BR BA PK Sq ft Days Date Asking Sale 2608 Post St 3 3 1 2152 24 11/2/2012 1,495,000 1,500,000 2683 Pine St 3 2.5 2 2120 41 10/30/2012 1,595,000 1,600,000 By Christine Lunde “It’s all about the experience. I don’t 1829 Scott St 3 3 1 21 10/24/2012 1,695,000 1,775,000 believe in a haircut being a tax, or little kids 1920 Broderick St 3 3.5 2 2388 34 11/8/2012 2,195,000 2,100,000 orking its way into the local dreading getting their hair cut,” he says. 2315 Webster St 3 2.5 1 2450 41 11/9/2012 2,299,000 2,175,000 fabric, Attention to Detail Bar- “Getting your hair cut is a luxury and you 2204 Steiner St 4 2.5 2 13 10/31/2012 2,495,000 2,710,000 ber Gallery on Sutter Street should look forward to going, to hanging 2123 Pierce St 3 2 3 2600 11 10/30/2012 2,995,000 2,995,000 W 2615 California St 7 5.5 7 8 11/5/2012 1,980,000 3,100,000 may soon rival sports bars as the hippest out with the guys.” 166 Arguello St 5 4.5 1 28 10/17/2012 3,050,000 3,100,000 place for men to fraternize. Flat screen TVs Celebrity clients are not out of the ordi- 1836 Pine St 5 4.5 2 4500 23 10/23/2012 3,349,000 3,355,000 broadcasting sports and news, generous nary at his shop. A Dodgers fan who’s par- 2223 Pacifi c Ave 3 2.5 2 3625 28 10/26/2012 3,350,000 3,550,000 servings of beer and champagne — and, of ticularly boastful rolled up one day during 3878 Jackson St 4 3.5 2 4609 60 11/9/2012 3,850,000 3,660,000 course, stylish cuts and shaves — make the spring season with an L.A. sticker proudly 2750 Lyon St 4 3.5 2 33 10/19/2012 3,895,000 3,850,000 shop at 2180 Sutter a convenient congre- affi xed on his car while Giants pitcher Ser- 2460 Green St 4 3.5 2 27 10/31/2012 4,395,000 4,325,000 gating place for clients of all ages. gio Romo was getting his hair cut. Th e fan, 2427 Green St 5 4.5 2 4081 54 10/26/2012 5,000,000 4,790,000 On one recent afternoon, owner Anton who usually makes his presence known, sat 2841 Vallejo St 5 5 2 13 10/26/2012 5,500,000 5,900,000 Cura saw his youngest client, a 3-year-old down across from Romo without uttering a 3865 Clay St 7 6.5 2 185 10/26/2012 6,950,000 6,250,000 blonde boy, walk by. He waved. A group peep. Th e stylists played into it, asking him 3954 Washington St 5 4.5 2 3 10/24/2012 7,000,000 7,000,000 of women pushing strollers yelled into about the game, to his chagrin. Nothing is 3368 Jackson St 6 6.5 3 7928 124 10/25/2012 12,500,000 11,700,000 the shop for stylist Ken El-Armin and out of the realm of conversation here: poli-
he dashed out to say hello. Th e clientele ERIK ANDERSON tics, sports, women, business. Condos / Co-ops / TICs / Lofts is mostly male, and on this particular day Attention to Detail stylist Brandon 1450 Post St #606 1 1 0 544 154 10/29/2012 79,500 74,000 ATD owner Anton Cura is aiming to bring back the golden age of the local barbershop. friends are waiting, browsing through Dorsch specializes in men’s cuts, but previ- 1450 Post St #305 1 1 1 519 68 10/25/2012 140,000 135,000 2162 Pine St #203 0 1 0 381 10/19/2012 224,888 225,000 magazines, watching television and join- ously styled women’s hair. 2040 Franklin St #1006 0 1 1 791 45 10/26/2012 475,000 510,000 ing the conversation. Th e space is sleek and “My friends always ask me whose hair 1856 Franklin St #8 2 1 1 0 11/13/2012 514,000 514,000 open, yet intimate enough to encourage A Gentlemen’s Club is harder to cut, men’s or women’s,” Dorsch 2211 California St #400 1 1 1 616 26 11/14/2012 499,000 545,000 conversation. says. “If you give a woman a good blow 1800 Washington St #415 1 1 1 681 19 10/19/2012 579,000 607,000 Cura is bringing back the golden age of Attention to Detail is more than a barbershop out they’re happy. But guys, they’re hard. 1730 Broderick St #1 1 1 1 828 37 11/9/2012 549,000 610,000 the neighborhood barbershop. But Atten- Th ey’re like ‘Ooh, can you carve that out?’ ” 2999 California St #42 1 1 2 989 55 11/9/2012 689,000 685,000 tion to Detail, which opened last year, is pocket squares or ties if they don’t have time what he’s bringing to San Francisco. A month ago, Cura put up a barber pole 1817 California St #304 1 1.5 1 28 11/7/2012 599,000 708,000 the spruced-up post-dot-com version. It to run home. Th e black fl oors, chandeliers In addition to Cura, there are three to mark the shop’s spot on Sutter. Business 2801 Jackson St #301 1 1 1 1139 187 11/2/2012 729,000 710,000 doesn’t look like a traditional barbershop and leather chairs give off the modern aes- other stylists on staff — Ken El-Armin, has picked up and people see the red and 2990 Jackson St #3 1 1 1 14 11/14/2012 749,000 766,000 because it’s not; it’s a hybrid between a place thetic Cura says he derives from his own Armando Martinez and Brandon Dorsch, white stripes as an invitation to drop in. 3011 Jackson St #1 2 1 1 1000 35 10/26/2012 799,000 901,000 to get a haircut and a high-end salon. life and travels. who he says all have the skills and profes- “I didn’t know what to expect when I 3295 Clay St #4 2 1 1 1132 44 10/26/2012 949,000 900,000 “I had to think progressively and with “I’ve been fortunate enough to bottle up sional experience to deliver the service his opened a year and a half ago,” he says. “I 1900 Steiner St #A 2 2 1 1278 35 11/15/2012 899,000 935,000 the times — where everything in San Fran- my lifestyle and share it with my consum- clients covet. knew this was a good location in terms of 2200 Sacramento St #607 2 2 1 1000 67 11/8/2012 1,100,000 1,100,000 cisco is going,” says Cura. “ATD is new and ers,” he says. Cura grew up around the hair styling my target consumer, but I didn’t know how 3563 Sacramento St 3 2 1 1485 56 10/26/2012 1,185,000 1,300,000 something progressive, and suitable to the Too many times during his travels, he business; his mother is a retired beautician. receptive the community would be. Th ey’ve 2206 Vallejo St 2 2 3 1736 21 10/26/2012 1,295,000 1,320,000 3049 California St 3 2 2 21 10/31/2012 1,195,000 1,335,000 audience here.” says, he’s seen uncomfortable-looking men But he says that unlike a lot of the guys been great. I love what’s happening over 2612 Post St 3 3.5 1 2061 33 11/14/2012 1,495,000 1,495,000 ATD is a one-stop shop where clients in salons who settle for a cut by someone in the business, he wasn’t the one in high here. It makes me feel good.” 2000 Baker St 3 2.5 2 2334 11 10/31/2012 1,495,000 1,625,000 can come to get ready for a date, meeting who doesn’t know how to use clippers and school who gave the football team hair- Attention To Detail is open Tuesday 2170 Vallejo St #101 3 2 1 2145 41 11/14/2012 1,850,000 1,650,000 or business trip. After a precision cut and he’s witnessed stylists who have no dialogue cuts. He grew up going to barbershops and through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. 2847 Baker St 3 2 1 2101 61 11/14/2012 1,995,000 2,050,000 shave, they can have their shirts pressed, with their clients. He believes a barbershop enjoyed the experience of sitting in a chair and Th ursday until 8. For appointments, 2462 Broadway 3 2.5 0 2896 100 11/9/2012 2,699,000 2,600,000 call a car service and even buy one of Cura’s should be like a gentlemen’s club, which is and getting pampered. call 932-6904. 1940 Vallejo St #11 3 3.5 2 37 10/29/2012 4,995,000 5,500,000
Prices up 15 to 20% over last year We are in what appears to be a signifi cant and continuing upward trending market, with October sales practically leaping tall buildings in a single bound. During the past year, there has been a 15 to 20 percent increase in median home prices in the neighborhood, and historically low inventory continues to drive prices upward. Hill & Co. Continues to Sell NEW LISTINGS: Not new, but an interesting re-entry to the marketplace is the Heller mansion at 2020 Jackson, which originally came on the market in ARMS September 2011 for $20 million, then became the 2012 Decorator Showcase house, and is now back on the market for $14.9 million. This fully restored, grand the City’s Most Exceptional Properties. mansion with iconic bay views in the hub of north side living delivers on every OPEN front. Single family home inventory is low after a busy fall market, exacerbated by the end-of-the-year slowdown in new listings. Consider these recent sales. MINDS For the entry level buyer, 360 Locust #3 offers a charming classic Edwardian two-bedroom TIC in Presidio Heights for $660,000. The thoughtful upgrades, fl exible fl oor plan and exceptional location make this a great value. The south- OPEN facing views from light-fi lled 1901 California #10 are exceptional. This centrally City College of located, half-fl oor cooperative apartment is elegant and grand for just under $1.3 DOORS million. Also noteworthy is 3353 Jackson, offered for $2.8 million, with architect San Francisco C. A. Meussdorffer’s elegant execution and period detailing beautifully maintained. This full fl oor fl at offers a good condo conversion opportunity for a buyer willing OPEN to go through the process. — Data and commentary provided by MARIA MARCHETTI at Sotheby’s International Realty. Contact her at [email protected] or call 699-8008.
OPEN Presidio Heights 2835 2430 2969 1940 2120 2750 3060-62 Residence Divisadero Street Vallejo Street Lake Street Vallejo Street #11 Lyon Street Lyon Street Jackson Street www.ccsf.edu Represented Represented Represented Represented Represented Represented Represented Represented the the buyer. the buyer. the seller. the buyer. the buyer. the buyer. the seller. seller & buyer. Listed at Listed at Listed at Listed at Listed at Listed at Listed at Listed at Apply NOW $10,000,000 $5,500,000 $5,400,000 $5,250,000 $4,995,000 $4,500,000 $3,895,000 $3,300,000 for Spring 2013 Two Homes Currently for Sale
Nob Hill 7HJPÄJ/LPNO[Z City College is OPEN — Apply now! Offered at $5,995,000 Offered at $4,100,000 The Ultimate Urban Fantastic 4BD/3.5BA ¡ Chic Home. This Home with Breathtaking CCSF está abierto — Regístrate ahora! Floral Design extraordinary property ViewsV of the Golden Fresh & Artificial has been extensively GateG Bridge and Bay. Wreath & Holiday rebuilt and is the ultimate TheT home includes a grand 三藩市市立大學現在接受報名 ! in urban chic. It can be entrye foyer, a state-of-the Flowers Available enjoyed as a single family arta eat-in kitchen that Spring semester starts on January 14th, 2013 home or two independent openso to a family room homes. Natural light pours anda formal dining room, a View the Spring Class Schedule and Apply Online throughout this cutting landscaped rear yard and a Credit classes are $46 per unit for CA residents edge 6BD/6.5BA property. massive 2 car garage. The City’s Best Noncredit classes are FREE 1349-1351Clay.com 2630Divisadero.com2 Paula Pagano Ron Sebahar Financial Aid is available – Apply Now! (415) 860-4209 (415) 279-4579 Stephanie Ahlberg Katie Lyons (415) 321-4232 (415) 699-5821 City College of San Francisco Order Online: Phone Orders: (415) 921-6000 www.hill-co.com Marketing & Public Information Office 50 Phelan Avenue, S194 · San Francisco, CA 94112 [email protected] (415) 749 -1533 www.bloomingfloraldesign.com
14 NEW FILLMORE December 2012 December 2012 NEW FILLMORE 15