foodha for thought – menuism blog

Menuism reviewers are truly awesome! Whether they found an unexpected tasty gem of a restaurant or took it for the team after having a terrible meal, we truly applaud all their efforts in giving us the scoop on where we should be spending our hard-earned money on. On that note, I’d love to introduce you to those reviewers who we feel really contribute quality content to the site as well as quality information to fellow Menuism’ers. Our Featured Reviewer today is Dina, better known as grubalicioussf. So let’s learn more about Dina from San Francisco, CA.

I’m a native San Franciscan and Cal graduate with PR, sales, meeting and event planning experience. I’ve worked in the retail, job placement and high tech industries but now I spend my time raising my two kids and combing the Bay Area for great food. Passions include going to new restaurants, trying new recipes, making greeting cards, shopping, going for long walks and spending time with family and friends.

1. How did you find out about Menuism?

I stumbled upon Menuism while perusing the home page of a fellow writer for Examiner.com.

2. What about Menuism first appealed to you?

I liked how easy it is to submit a review and upload pictures. I also liked how you could describe the specific dishes you ate.

3. What restaurant did you write your first review about?

I think my first review was about Underdog, the organic hotdog joint in my neighborhood. It’s kind of surprising to find a place like this in the Sunset District which is known by some locals as the city’s “third Chinatown.”

4. What is your food philosophy?

Good food should be an exciting experience for all of our senses and shared with people we love. I’m in search of all things “grubalicious” – grub that’s delicious! I’ll try just about anything once.

5. What are your favorite restaurants?

It depends on my mood because there are so many great restaurants in the Bay Area to choose from. At the top of my list, I would say are La Folie (French), Koo (sushi), Perbacco (Italian), Café Gibraltar (Mediterranean), Alembic (New American) and The House (Asian fusion).

6. What are your favorite cuisines?

I love it all but am partial to French, Japanese, Italian and American.

7. What are your favorite comfort foods?

Pot roast, my mom’s cooking, pasta and anything fried.

8. What is the best meal you ever ate and why?

The best meal I ever had was at La Folie because of it’s exquisite French cuisine, romantic setting, impeccable service and friendly chef-owner. Every single item from the amuse bouche to the customized dessert tasted amazing and looked beautiful. Service exceeded our expectations every step of the way. My husband and I celebrated our wedding anniversary there last year and they treated us like royalty. We appreciated that the chef-owner came out to say goodbye to us as we were leaving. It was truly memorable.

9. Do you have any favorite cookbooks (if any)?

I find myself constantly referring to my Cooking Light and Eating Well series, as well as my Real Simple: Meals Made Easy cookbook because I am always looking for quick, easy, healthy yet satisfying dishes to make for my family.

10. What words of encouragement would you give to first time Menuism reviewers?

Reviewing restaurants on Menuism is fun and easy! Check it out, it’s user-friendly and you may even get paid for expressing yourself. Enter their Monthly Review Contest and become eligible to win $200!

If you’d like to be able to keep up with Dina’s reviews, click here to check out her profile!

If there is a Menuism reviewer who has really helped you make great dining choices and you’d like to see him or her be a Featured Reviewer, than be sure to message me or send me an email at abby@menuism.com.

By Abby C. Abanes
Menuism Community Manager