Straw: Carny Food, A Review

When I first heard about the restaurant Straw, I was intrigued by the idea.  After eating there, I have nothing but praise, and I swear it has nothing to do with the fact that I went to middle school with one of the owners.  I admit, that may make me biased, but only so far as that was why I wanted to try it out.  Who wouldn't want to show support for someone they knew?

Needless to say, as soon as people heard we were headed to San Fran, the name Straw came up...over and over again.  As a foodie, the concept of carnival fare was enticing, and the lure of the menu posted online was enough to convince the girls to give it a try.

We made it there just before closing at lunch time.

Really?  How cool is this?!?

The decor lends itself perfectly to creating an unbeatable ambiance.  The staff was beyond friendly and the whole place was just warm and inviting.

Look how much fun we are all having:

 

We started with the sweet potato tots.  These are not just ordinary taters, these sweet potatoes are fried up perfectly, and the blackberry BBQ sauce that accompanies them is the perfect compliment for the flavor of the tots.

Plus, they were served with cute little plates.  Seriously, this place is tons of fun, and they do not cut corners when trying to make your dining experience maxed out.

Amanda ordered this awesome salad, known as the Aunt Sally, perfectly portioned for lunch. 

Danita went with the grilled cheese and tomato soup.  Again, super fun!  check out those goldfish swimming in the soup.

Here was another draw to come and eat at Straw.  Everyone who mentioned this place to me told me about this burger.  I don't eat meat, but I do know some people who do, so I am glad that Toni was game to give this burger a try.  Notice anything about the bun?  

Yes, that is a donut!  Known as the Ringmaster, this burger comes served between a donut.

Last up is my entree.  I went with the sandwich known as hippie love.  What can I say, I love veggies!  This is a spiced carrot sandwich completed with chevre cheese (and a few other nice ingredients, of course).

Heavenly!

So how do you end a meal as fun and delicious as that?

With some birthday cotton candy!

I will say that I didn't quite know what to expect after reading the menu.  Like I said, as a foodie, I was definitely intrigued.  As a dietitian, I was hesitant on some food options, but upon close review I was really pleased to see a blend of what would be considered unhealthy options mixed with some really healthy options, and the portions are not overwhelming (and more importantly not swimming in grease).  There is something for everyone here, and even a splurge or two.

If you are ever in San Francisco, check out Straw.  Trust me, you will not be disappointed!

QUESTIONS:  What is the craziest restaurant concept you have ever tried?  What do you think of this carnival themed restaurant?  Would you ever try a burger on a donut?