3rd Annual Foodbuzz Blogger Festival

I was more than thrilled to be a part of the 3rd Annual Foodbuzz Blogger Festival this year. It was held in San Francisco, CA, which is by far one of my most favorite cities in the world. We traveled as a little family up there, and I was so happy to show Giovanni such a wonderful city for the first time. The Taste Pavilion and Gala Dinner was filled with absolutely delicious food, as well as lovely people. It was so great getting a chance to meet new people, and I can't wait to keep in touch with them. Foodbuzz put on an incredible event, which I am already looking forward to attending again next year. Sitting back at home, I am left day dreaming of the amazing food, people, events and surroundings from our trip to San Francisco.

Taste Pavilion at the Metreon

Tea Sampling by Red Circle Tea. I loved how much information I gathered about these teas, and where they come from. She travels to China twice a year to source fresh, sustainable, seasonal hand processed small batches of tea. She had such an amazing passion for teas, and it really came through when she explained the whole process to me. The House of Balsamic table was one of my favorite stops. I tasted every product that they had  to offer, and absolutely loved it. They have these jellies(pictured above) that are just out of this world. If you have ever wanted to spread Balsamic Vinegar on a piece of toast for instance, here is your solution.

The Girl and the Fig

Cheese Sampling by Redwood Hill Farm and Creamery. The Brie with peppercorns was divine!

Wine Country [Non-alcoholic] Sodas by Vignette. I am normally not a big soda drinker, but these just might have changed my mind. They were pleasantly bubbly, and had a nice touch of sweetness to them.

Chef Tyler Florence made a surprise appearance at the Taste Pavillion and signed copies of his book and photo. He hung out at the Alexia booth for a short while, and gave us a quick glimpse before we would see him later that evening at the Gala dinner.

Mini Cupcakes by Mission Minis. I had the Cinnamon Horchata mini cupcake. I could have easily tried every flavor, that is if I would have started with the cupcakes, but unfortunately they were my last stop. By that time, my stomach was full of everything from Balsamic vinegars to Australian lamb. I know rough life huh?! Walking around to all of the different tables and tasting their products was such a delightful (and indulgent) way to spend the afternoon.

Gala Dinner with Tyler Florence at The Grand Hyatt

By the time we sat down after our "mingling hour", my stomach was ready to indulge in what the menu had to offer.

Chef Tyler Florence did a cooking demonstration on Cider-brined pork chops, Spaetzle, and Braised Red Cabbage. He was very entertaining to watch, and the smells were just amazing. No offense to the Filet Mignon, but I could have definitely eaten those gorgeous pork chops that he made. He also had some great quotes that night, it was most definitely an experience to remember.

Salad Course: Bibb Lettuce Salad with Honey Roasted Pears, Glazed Pecans, and Blue Cheese Vinaigrette. I have to say that I loved the pears in the salad. Their sweetness with the pungent blue cheese dressing was just divine.

Entrée: Brandt Beef Farms Filet Mignon and Meyer Lemon Roasted Prawns.

Dessert Course: San Francisco Trio Sourdough Bread Pudding Cowgirl Creamery Cheesecake Scharffen Berger Chocolate Mousse

I would have to say that my favorite of the three was the Schraffen Berger Chocolate Mousse.