Bistro Boudin

Seeing that this was my third time in San Francisco, I not only wanted Joe to visit the must-sees of the city, but also hit up a couple of spots I’ve missed myself. Along with eating good eats (obviously), I had two things I had to see that weekend: the Boudin Bakery tour and the farmer’s market at Ferry Building (both posts to come).

When we arrived to the Boudin Bakery on Fisherman’s Wharf, I was surprised nobody was in the museum, located above the Boudin cafe and beside their bistro. Why would you NOT want to learn about how they make sourdough? What makes it sour? No? Just me? Further discussion among friends and family made me realize I was the only one who got a kick out of this stuff. For a $3 admission fee, I was pretty excited for this self-guided tour. I was even more excited when the museum’s passionate guide told us that admission was free if we ate at the bistro a few steps away. Looking at her watch, she told us non-nonchalantly, “It’s happy hour. You could get oysters for $1.” And whoosh, we were gone.

Shucking Oysters

There were a few seats left at the oyster bar that Friday night, and thank goodness, because the deal is only for those at seated at the oyster bar or the main bar. Monday – Friday, 4 – 6pm, with the exceptions of holidays and events. To be honest, I was never a big fan of oysters. But after trying various preparations, mostly at Japanese restaurants, they were starting to grow on me. I was determined to figure out which variety of oysters I liked and at a buck a shuck, I had no problems with that.

Drinks

While we watched our oysters being shucked, we ordered drinks. You learn new things every day, today being that a Caesar cocktail, one of my favorite drinks if done right, is primarily Canadian. A confused look from the bartender clearly told me so, and when he asked what was in it, and I proceeded to say “Clamato..”, he cut me off and replied, “Tomato juice? You want a Bloody Mary?” I gave in and just nodded my head. I think this was the first time I’ve ever had a Bloody Mary. I’ll tell you, a Caesar is a million times better than a Bloody Mary. Something about the clam juice and extra spices. Wikipedia tells me that Americans fear that too much clam juice is in the beverage. Weirdos. And no celery salted rim? You did good Canada, you did good.

Oysters

By the time I was done analyzing the differences between a Caesar and a Bloody Mary to Joe, our oysters were done! The oyster variety for the night: Hama Hama oysters from Washington. Absolutely delicious! A smaller variety, firm, and light, much like the Kumamotos that I preferred from our trip in LA. Win! Plus the mignonette was delicious! I didn’t get a chance to ask our oyster shucker or our bartender what was in it as they were putting through orders like no tomorrow. A house made cocktail sauce and horseradish was also available upon request. We finished our dozen oysters so fast that our drinks looked untouched, so we ordered another dozen. Best oysters (taste and price) and mignonette to date!

Close Up of Hama Hama Oyster

Although normally I try not to look at the oysters too closely – looks strange, squishy, slimy… – after that drink, they were starting to look pretty cute! Highly suggest the happy hour deals if you’re in the area. I was also told their other menu items, including the pepperoni pizza and calamari, are delicious! Love unexpected finds! Check out my next post for the bakery tour.

Bistro Boudin
www.bistroboudin.com
160 Jefferson St.
San Francisco
(415) 928-1849

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