The night before Valentine's day, I treated my best friend Mya Moon to a special night out in the city.
We began with dinner at Santería (
@santeria_sf ), a true gem tucked into San Francisco’s lively Castro district. Every detail felt like a warm, spirited embrace of Afro-Cuban culture and creative culinary flair. Some highlights were the prickly pear habanero wings, guava chia lemonade, a diversity of unique lamps and chandeliers, and the most striking mural I've seen inside a restaurant. It depicts a dramatic, mythic scene set against a massive golden full moon - a blindfolded woman in a red satin dress, facing a devil. His heart has been struck open by her presence, invoking themes of temptation, love, power, and transformation.
Our next stop was U:Dessert Story (
@udessertstory ). At this vibrant Mission District dessert café, every bite feels like a sweet adventure. From an elegantly presented black sesame mochi ball in signature Taiwanese milk tea to a creamy Young coconut Pandan crepe cake, the desserts we devoured were as beautiful as they were delicious. Each dish was handcrafted with premium ingredients, balancing playful textures and bold Asian fusion flavors.
At each restaurant, our experience was rooted in presence.
We took in the decor and stylings of the spaces around us.
We savored our food - first remarking at the presentation, then appreciating the aromas, and finally melting in the taste of every bite.
We held space to express our gratitude, for our meals and each other's company.
To close out the night, we arrived at the venue Public Works (
@publicworkssf ). Joining a group of delightful friends, we danced to Drrtywulvz and Dimond Saints. Intricate melodies moved our bodies, as sensual, heavy bass grounded us. In this space of flow and abandon, the outside world ceased to exist, creating sacred space for joy and revelry.
It was a night of pure magic. I have learned much about truly enjoying every part of my experience, in the wisdom of my friend. You're the best Mya Moon. I love you!
