Olma M.'s Profile

Used to go here when the place was still "ManiPedi."  I was a bit skeptical when the Pinkies chain took over; but, boy, am I glad I kept comin' here.  

There's another Pinkies Nail Salon, literally, one block from home, in Burlingame; but, I've always just preferred going to Potrero Hill for the sole purpose of visiting this particular Pinkies.  Seriously.  I have *always* received such stellar customer  and salon service here - consistently.  And, time permitting, my 15 y.o. niece still loves to come here to get her brows waxed because she specifically appreciates one esthetician.

You really don't have to pay high spa prices to spend a nice, quiet, relaxing, semi-luxurious afternoon or evening pampering yourself.  I consider it a total indulgence when I treat myself to a treatment at Pinkies in Potrero Hill - I can always justify the gas, time and energy it takes to make the trek for some guaranteed quality service.

Plus, I think it's super cool that they have a facebook page AND you can follow them on Twitter (every once in a while, they post some cool music via tweets and fb status updates)!

Oh, and they're just down the way from Just For You Cafe!  Score!

I *heart* Pinkies!

Every year, this is my go-to place for a low-key birthday dinner with the fam.  Nice, comfort food to soothe the soul and remind me of a home-cooked meal from my mom or dad, served up with positive energy and lots of heart.

Wow.  What a pleasantly wonderful first experience with acupuncture.  I attended the "Acupuncture Happy Hour" since I thought it was the perfect opportunity to try something new without breaking the bank.  For only $15, I had about 30+ minutes of pure bliss and relaxation.  

Amy welcomed me at the front desk and informed me that I would receive a 10 minute massage during the acupuncture session, then offered me a glass of herbal elixir (I opted for "Chi Girl" *Elixr brand).

I walked through to the main open area where a small seating area was separated by a screen divider.   As soon as I was ready, I would set my shoes aside and make myself comfortable on one of the yoga mats laying in the adjacent space.  

I wanted to take full advantage of this experience, so I sat down and  soaked in the calm and serene setting.  On the far wall was a couch adorned with pillows and a coffee table of neatly stacked magazines and books - the perfect setting to unwind before your treatment.

As soon as I set my things down and had a few more sips of my yummy-licious elixir, I met Tamara, the acupuncturist.  I informed her that this was my first time to experience acupuncture and she kindly explained a few basics including how many needles she would use today, where they would be placed and typical sensations associated with it.  I lay on my back and just closed my eyes and let Tamara talk me through it.  She placed one needle on each of my hands and feet, and one in the area between my eyes.  The initial prick was a very slight sharp sensation and she prepared me for it by letting me know right before she did it.  Maybe it was psychological, but I swear, it seemed like I didn't even feel the other needles going in.  I really didn't know what to expect so I was really surprised that the needles were barely a sliver and flexible.

I didn't feel any sensation at first, but after what seemed to about 10-12 minutes, I felt a numbing sensation at each point and it seemed to radiate.  Then, in about another 10 minutes, I felt something intense, but it was extremely subtle (I think you have to feel this to know what I'm talking about).  At that point, Holly, the massage therapist came over to my side and asked me how everything was going, and informed me that she would be giving me about a 10 minute head and neck massage.  I just smiled and closed my eyes again.  Holly had an incredibly gentle and definitive touch throughout the short massage.  It was extremely relieving and complemented the acupuncture perfectly.

After my session, I felt like I had been in "another place" for over an hour.  I returned to the seating area and just lounged, reviewing their menu of services and sipping the rest of my elixir.  I left feeling so refreshed... and happy... because I knew I would find my way back to Acupuncture Kitchen.

NOTE: They have a special for first time visits, through April 30 - $50 for a one hour massage.  Check out their website for a calendar of events.  They offer a wide array of services.

In the past couple of months, we've had multiple, recurring issues with our networked copier/scanner/printer.  Since the unit happens to sit immediately outside the IT. office, you can guess the first people called to troubleshoot.  

Now, I don't usually mind learning new things, but I can also appreciate stepping aside, and letting a more qualified professional take the lead on something requiring more proprietary technical skills.  But... because I like to try to solve things before asking for help, I've developed quite an intimate relationship with this frickin' unit.  I can pull out that fuser and replace that staple cartridge like it's nobody's business!

The down-side is dealing with the frustrations of users and over-hearing the forceful banging and slamming associated with the hardware issues.  We've had a couple of technicians come out who have really just kept to themselves and just 'did their job' (whatever that was).  Yet, still, the same issues recurred.  

Finally, they sent in the "big dog!" He introduced himself, actually asked me questions about the specific problems, kept me apprised every step of the way, documented what he did, informed me of necessary future work/maintenance and even ran a power test (looks like we've yet another power load issue to deal with. bummer).

I've met other field service managers for Rabbit Office Automation before, but have never felt so confident in one's competence and thorough assessment.  Props to Victor Vasquez out of the Sunnyvale office.

Disclaimer: I've never set foot in the bakery and this review is based solely on my experience of their Tiramisu. NOTE: we chose this place because of reviews on yelp.

FIVE FAT STARS for the fact that they have a 'full size' Tiramisu, mini Tiramisu AND an individual-sized Tiramisu AND it is so delectable it makes me want to use foul language to try and describe its intensity.

We kept the cake in its box, refrigerated for a few hours before we consumed it for dessert.  Typically, when we've had to do this with Tiramisu, the cake gets super saturated and the lady fingers can get dry.

This bad boy was perfect through and through.  The mascarpone was just right and creamy, the ladyfingers were superb and perfectly porous and soft and moist.

I'm *always* on the hunt for some good tiramisu and I was pleasantly surprised with City of D'lights.   A drive to San Ramon for some luscious tiramisu is a short drive for this bay area/peninsula resident!  Can't wait to try other pastries/cakes here.

I have to admit, I may be biased since I was here for a spa party, celebrating  some of the best female bonds I've ever had - so my review could very well be tainted in that respect.

However, I really can't say that my rating would be any different if I had just walked in for my "mani/pedi plus."  I absolutely loved the ambiance, cozy layout and slick furniture.  The space is well-used and it's a great sensory experience all around.

My service was incredible.  Great massage, meticulous grooming and I felt as royal as I probably looked on that elevated, high back, leather chair.  You can't help but feel pampered the minute you step up to your seat and dip your toes into the glass bowl faucet.  Surprisingly, the chairs were super comfortable (I've been in salons w/elevated, high back chairs before but it's never felt as plush and comfy as this)!.

The scrub and heated lotion massage truly rocked my world (the heated lotion looked like melted butter so I was in a happy place).  The Paraffin wax wrap was fabulous, complete with cute booties for feet/hands to keep the heat in.

They have a small bar area for hosts to bring their own food and drinks and they provided us with plates and silverware.  They also have two flat panel t.v.'s and you can bring your own DVD for the party!

Since we had to stagger our appointments, the shopping opportunity in the entry way/front lobby really kept us busy when we weren't snacking or drinking.  They have great products with great prices (I'll likely return to check out some of the jewelry again, with or without an appt. for service)!

I've regularly gone out of my way just to go to ManiPedi in Potrero Hill (it's now Pinkies Nail Salon) - but this is my new go-to place in P-Hill!  Just around the corner from Whole Foods.  I highly recommend Tiptoes!

woohoo!  Seems like I've waited sooo long for this place to finally open, after months of driving by the "Caffe Roma Opening Soon" sign!

I got everything I expected on this sunny, Saturday afternoon:
- Efficient, warm and super-friendly service;
- Quality Mocha;
- Overwhelmingly tempting glass counter displays of fresh options!!!

Breakfast 'stuff (!),' Gelato, Paninis, Soups, Pastas, Cold Sandwiches, Salads AND desserts, oh my...

I suggest walking in, taking a minute to find a seat with a 'view,' and just soak in all the sights and sounds until you 'commit' to an order!  I was fixated on the Espresso menu for a solid five minutes, but all for naught - I ended up ordering what I read on a counter-top display board as I approached the cashier - today, I just *had* to have my Iced Double Peppermint Mocha.

According to the niece with picky taste buds, the Mango Gelato was "reeeaaalllllly goooood!"

Since it's close to work, it's a pretty sure bet I'll be here for lunch regularly.  The place is immaculately clean and two of their top-to-bottom windowed walls actually open up for an open-air-fresh dining experience.  It was bustling with such great energy today - students with stacks of books, people with laptops, families, couples, firefighters and aunts with cool nieces!

GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION ON WEDNESDAY 11/19/2008 5P-7P.

Recently had dinner here and ordered: "Chiporones al Ajillo - Fresh Monterey Calamari sauteed with garlic, lemon, chile, cinnamon and olive oil. $7 Spanish"

While my dish was incredible, filling and refreshing and just... perfect, I have to say that their Lunch menu is waaaay better than their Dinner menu.  Oh, and I really appreciate their Kids menu ("under 12, please").

I will see you again, soon, Chez Shea!

I'm at a loss as to why some yelpers have such strong negative reviews about this place - I mean, if you want a burger with avocado or mushrooms or bacon, you really have to kinda assume they won't have it here considering those options are not listed on their menu (all burgers served w/mayonnaise, lettuce, tomato, red onion, & pickles); and, if you communicate your request effectively, I'm pretty sure you'll get what you want (medium, medium-well, american , cheddar, swiss, no fries, etc.).

OK, let me take a step back, try to be objective since I really don't eat meat for the most part...

Burger Joint is now at the corner of Primrose and Burlingame Avenue, at the former location of Towles Cafe. Once the sign was up and their menu was posted, I was *extremely* happy for the following reasons:

- burgers made with LOCAL, NATURALLY-FED Niman Ranch Angus beef;
- veggie burgers (!!!);
- free-range chicken;
- fresh cut fries (!!!)
- house-made lemonade;
- milkshakes made with ice cream from SF-based Double Rainbow!

See, when you're used to CRAVING for a burger and fries, and prefer to no longer eat meat (cheese is my meat nowadays), it brings out an incredible state of EU-FREAKIN-PHORIA when the burger joint within walking distance from home serves up fresh, hot veggie burgers with fresh cut fries!!! (um, pretty sure it's psychological).

Yes, comparatively, it's pricey, but I'm a firm believer in 'investing' in my health and just trying to eat better. I'm approaching 40 and definitely feel the difference since I've altered my eating habits (to be clear, I'm no 'elitist' or health foodie by any means; but just tryin' to bring things back to basics, especially since I'm around children so much).

So, take these reviews for what they are - real opinions by real people; but, also, an opportunity to challenge yourself to try something new and share your opinion with yelp nation. I know, I know, times are tough, money's tight, but when you see the fresh cut fries with a width of about a quarter inch on each side, and sprinkle it with a little salt and a dab of ketchup... well, you'll probably do what I do... visit again... and again... and again!

I'm a fan AND I'm totally worth the price of one of Burger Joint's burger and fries (ahem... and shake)! Plus, I'll likely be here before attendance at a Giants game for the 2009 season thanks to their King St. location!

FIVE Bay Area locations: http://www.burgerjoint...
SF - Valencia Street, Haight, right across SF Giants' phone company park and SFO airport (international terminal);
Peninsula - Burlingame Ave.

"Creative Cut" from Lynn: sixty-five dollars
A local, "green" salon in my neighborhood with super-friendly and knowledgeable Lynn: *priceless*

Ok, granted, I'm pretty budget savvy, especially when it comes to certain things.  I'm pretty low-maintenance; but I was lookin' for a change.  I couldn't even remember the last time I cut my hair and I was in desperate need of some type of "boost" before my upcoming high school reunion!

Lynn consulted with me by soliciting information and offering personalized recommendations/suggestions.  I immediately felt comfortable and "in good hands."  Her confidence and 'comfort' in what she was doing and how she was going to deliver her service put me in a relaxed state and anxious for her master plan!

From consultation to wash (scalp massage!) to styling, I was thoroughly appreciative.  Lynn strikes me as the type of person capable of accommodating diverse clientele - chat if you want or relax in silence - she'll keep you feeling comfortable.

I highly recommend Lynn and will wholeheartedly continue to support her salon - I can't wait to experience the other salon services!

And, now, I can feel better about investing in "living beautifully!"  (formerly "Bijou" salon, right next to Hola's restaurant on Burlingame Avenue).