I am really, really late to the Compost Cookie party. Milk Bar introduced it nearly a decade ago, and while I was totally aware of the food world’s obsession, the everything-but-the-kitchen sink treat didn’t make much of an impression on me. Back then, I was more of a Confetti Cookie gal.
After years of not giving a hoot, I finally tried a Compost Cookie last week—and swoon.
On the Saturday after Thanksgiving, The Astronomer’s mother treated me, June, and Auntie Roz (also known as The Astronomer’s sister) to afternoon tea at The Huntington.
Years ago, I had stopped into the Rose Garden Tea Room to scope out the scene. I remember being surprised by the fact that the sweets and savories were served buffet-style from an open-air refrigerated case. I am very much an afternoon tea snob, so I walked away slightly appalled and passed on tea for the time being.
Fast forward to the present. The buffet is ancient history and in its place are gloriously formal tiered serving trays and “fresh offerings made from scratch with local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients,” at least according to the website. The updated afternoon tea experience is much more fitting of The Huntington’s impeccable grounds (and my expectations).
The grown-ups selected the “Traditional Tea Service” ($35), which included tea, a selection of savories and sweets, and a glass of Canella prosecco. June enjoyed the “Children’s Tea Service” ($20), which also included tea, as well as a few ‘kid-friendly’ food options.
We stopped in for breakfast at The Mill on our final morning in San Francisco. Toast—fancy hipster toast—was calling our names. We couldn’t leave town before trying some.
Every slice of toast from The Mill begins with damn good bread from Josey Baker, which uses whole grain flours milled daily on-site and sourdough starter. I procured a hearty loaf of country bread ($6) to-go as a gift for my aunt who we’d be seeing later in the day.
While our trio of toasts were being made, I perked up with an espresso from FourBarrel Coffee.