Tony L.'s Profile

I'm taking my car for repairs here today.  Calling for an appointment was very easy, and the shop seemed very accommodating.  They're working well with State Farm, my insurance company.

I really dislike this place.  While it would be great to have a fun bar to go to that's just a couple blocks away, this one doesn't cut it.  The crowd is not fun, the decor sucks, it's dingy without being "cool dingy," and it can't tell whether it's trying to be a lounge or a wanna-be club.

Don't waste your time.

Biondivino is my favorite boutique wine store in the world.  There are so many reasons why, but here a few:
- Today was a very, very rainy day.  She sent an email this afternoon offering free delivery so that customers wouldn't have to walk in the rain to pick up a few bottles of wine.  You can't beat that level of customer service and connection with your clients: http://tonyleachsf.com...
- The owner is one of the most friendly wine people I've ever met.  Her recommendations are excellent, and helps customers navigate the less-familiar world of Italian wines.  She is also as price-conscious  as her clients, and makes recommendations accordingly.
- There are frequent tastings that are very casual and informative.  Everyone's invited, even to her small shop.  
- It's a great place to explore outside your comfort zone of Californian wines.
- It's close-by to my apartment!

Sushi Groove is great if you live nearby.  I'll stop by every now and then and really enjoy the interesting options - the menu items here include the traditional sushi fare as well as rolls & fishes you don't see many other places.  

They're a little less friendly here than I'd like, but that might just be my experience.  They're also generally pretty crowded, especially on the weekends, making it tough to just drop in.

I suppose I'm as biased as everyone else who said they live less than 2 blocks away.  But it's great (better & cheaper) than the nearby Sushi Groove.  Ordering what was caught today (usually 5-6 selections, posted on the wall) is always a good move.  Not really that expensive if you don't go nuts with the "everything" roll.

What I like most is that they give you free edamame as appetizers - that nice touch will always keep me coming back!

I like Za for neighborhood pizza - it's great that it's down the block and I don't have to go very far for.  However, I've never been very impressed with it - I don't like the "corn meal" crust, and the thin crust really means everything just kinda slides off.  

Their salads are great though, and they always have some quality beers on tap and a crowd of interesting people around.