Global Soul at the weekly "Off The Grid gathering in Fort Mason. Global Soul is one of many vendors that will be at this weekend's street food bonanza. Photo: Stephen Lam/The Chronicle
- The Feature: Previewing the two big street food festivals over the next two weekends: La Cocina’s SF Street Food Festival this Saturday and Oakland’s Eat Real Festival, Aug. 27-29.
- The Update: Michael Bauer returns to the swanky Village Pub down in Woodside, only to find it hasn’t moved much since his last visit:
So, while some of the food was excellent, I was disappointed because of the ratio of price to quality. After my visit, I reread my review of 18 months ago and found the experience hadn’t changed a bit
Final grade: the same 2.5 stars
- The Review: Allen Matthews takes the other review today, and he heads to the land known as the Inner Sunset to try Izakaya Sozai, where the novel takes on Japanese fare can dazzle at times:
The tables turn with lightning speed, but the young waiters don’t rush diners who choose to linger in the simple, 35-seat restaurant, which shines with natural light when the sun graces the Sunset. Chef Osuka said he envisioned Izakaya Sozai being a popular neighborhood spot, and it looks as if his plan is working. Much of the food is, too.
Final grade: 2.5 stars
- Bar Bites: A quick noshing stop at Delarosa.
- Bargain Bites: Iron Cactus, a taqueria by the ballpark.
- Inside Scoop: Bay Wolf, the Washbag, Charles Chocolates, and so much more.