MATT NORRIS

Matt Norris manages the beverage program at Soluna and 50 Mason in San Francisco.

What was the food highlight of your year?

Food highlight of the year is a toss up between a gorgeously executed anniversary dinner at Quince and a casual, yet delicious night at State Bird Provisions. Both experiences provided an opportunity to enjoy many different tastes and textures. Quince made me feel like royalty, lavishing us with personal touches and excellent wine pairings. State Bird feels as though you have stumbled into an alternate universe where dim sum buns and dumplings have been replaced with unique, fresh offerings showcasing the bounty of our amazing local produce.

What was the music highlight of your year?

Saw some great music this year, but the highlight would have to be the Flaming Lips playing The Soft Bulletin at Bimbo’s. Getting a chance to see a band that now headlines festivals play a seminal album in it’s entirety at an intimate venue can’t be beat. Plus, I got invited to the show the night of, so that spontaneity contributed to the surreal feel of the night. I also got a chance to bond with my brother-in-law and I almost forgot, confetti canons in small spaces are awesome!

Was there a moment when food and music came together in a memorable way?

Day 2 of Treasure Island while sharing a Korrito from the Seoul On Wheels truck with my wife, while watching the Divine Fits, M83, and the sunset. Need I say more?

EVA FRYE

Eva Frye writes about food for 7x7 Magazine. Photo: Ben Rhau

What was the food highlight of your year?

The food highlight had to have been the tasting menu and pairings at Benu. Chef Cory Lee has such intention with his food it is incredible. That tiny piece of chervil on top? Not just for garnish, but an integral part of the flavor composition. Everything served at perfect (and varying) temperatures, everything a play on texture and consistency. And the pairings? Well I never would have thought to pair a Belgian sour with a lemongrassy Asian lobster soup dumpling, but the combination blew my mind and taste buds. Not only did they compliment each other beautifully, but they each held their own and contributed to the overall flavor individually.

What was the music highlight of your year? 

The music highlight of the year either had to be M83 at the Fillmore - hearing “Wait” live, seeing their glimmering lights, experiencing the passion with which Anthony Gonzalez grips his mic, or how Morgan Kibby projects her striking vocals on stage is enough to raise you a little closer to heaven. Or, it was seeing Sigur Ros at Outside Lands. Their spirituality transcends the stage, and their haunting vocals make your spirit shiver. Don’t even get me started on the twinkling, star-like projections on stage that warmed your eyes like visual fire; you forgot about the icy chill in the air. All together, it was an ethereal experience.

Was there a moment when food and music came together in a memorable way?

I’d say my superwarm carnitas Tacolicious taco at Outside Lands was just the sustenance I needed to shrug off the SF chilliness so I could dance through Jack White. The salsa probably put a little pep in my step, too.