With some 3,300 restaurants in San Francisco, you could spend a lifetime enjoying them all. But one of the best kept dining secrets is not in the city itself, but in nearby Salsalito.
In this boutiquey little town, you’ll find Ondine, a restaurant worthy enough to have the big "will you marry me" question popped here.
Romance has always been an on-going part of our 35-year marriage. But we weren’t here for romance on this particular night, but were enjoying the company of newfound friends, whom we found most enjoyable and compatible. But, even though there were four of us, the setting was still romantic. How could it not be when you overlook the Bay and have a night time view of the twinkling lights of San Francisco.
Our table was large enough for at least 8 people, and it had been set so that all of us had a great view, and no one had their back to the city to miss the charm of being here. Soft, subdued lighting made it even more conducive to enjoying the outstanding seashore view, and the gentle, melodic flow of live piano music by performer/composer Katherine Griffin added the perfect piece de resistance to the setting. Her music, many of it her original compositions, was relaxing yet intensely passionate. It was moody, but uplifting.
Now, at home, listening to her Piano Dreams: The Flame of Love (katherinegriffinusa@netscape.net) I wish I had paid more attention to it at the time. But I was truly busy enjoying the view, our new friends—and the service and cuisine—an artistic blending of taste and style that all of us will remember for a long while.
Executive Chef Seiji Wakabayashi and Sous Chef Daniel Amaya prepare dishes that are a treat for the eyes as well as the taste buds and combine a French styling with the lightness and freshness of the Orient. In addition to such innovative entrees as Diver Scallop "Pad Thai," with coriander fettuccini, julienne vegetables, shiitake and shimeji mushrooms, and Thai basil, you also find a tasting menu where the chefs let you sample a full range of their talents. The next time, I may come to Sausalito first.
Ondine is located upstairs at 558 Bridgeway in Sausalito, California (415-331-1133). Make reservations, but come early so you can enjoy shopping in the town as well.