San Francisco's vibrant culinary scene just got a fresh wave of attention, as KQED's Check, Please! Bay Area turns the spotlight on three distinct dining destinations. From the aromatic spices of Afghan cuisine to the delicate precision of Japanese sushi and the rustic charm of a Walnut Creek wine bar, these reviews offer a tasty roadmap for your next food adventure. Here's what the experts had to say about Afghan Awasana Kabob House, Hakashi Japanese Sushi Bar & Grill, and Va de Vi.

Afghan Awasana Kabob House: A Taste of Tradition

Located in the heart of Fremont, Afghan Awasana Kabob House has been serving up hearty, home-style Afghan dishes that transport diners straight to the streets of Kabul. The restaurant's name, "Awasana," hints at its mission: to provide a welcoming "home" for those craving authentic flavors. The menu is a celebration of grilled meats, fragrant rice, and freshly baked bread, all prepared with time-honored techniques.

Reviewers on Check, Please! were particularly impressed by the kabobs, which are marinated overnight and cooked over open flames, resulting in juicy, charred perfection. The chapli kabob, a spiced minced beef patty, was a standout, while the qabuli palaw—a fragrant rice dish topped with caramelized carrots and raisins—earned high marks for its balance of sweet and savory. The restaurant's warm, unpretentious atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for families and groups looking to explore Afghan cuisine without pretense.

What to Order

  • Chapli Kabob: A must-try for its bold spices and crispy edges.
  • Qabuli Palaw: The signature rice dish, perfect for sharing.
  • Fresh Naan: Baked in a tandoor, it's the perfect accompaniment to any meal.

Hakashi Japanese Sushi Bar & Grill: Precision and Freshness

In the bustling town of San Mateo, Hakashi Japanese Sushi Bar & Grill has carved out a niche for itself with its commitment to high-quality ingredients and meticulous preparation. The restaurant's name, "Hakashi," is a nod to the Japanese word for "white," symbolizing purity and simplicity—values that shine through in their sushi and grill offerings.

The Check, Please! panel praised the sashimi, noting the fish's remarkable freshness and the chef's skillful slicing. The spicy tuna roll was another favorite, with a creamy, fiery kick that balanced the delicate rice. Beyond sushi, the grill section offers a range of robata-style skewers, including beef tongue and chicken skin, which added a smoky, savory dimension to the meal. The intimate setting, with a long sushi bar, allows diners to watch the chefs at work, creating a sense of theater that enhances the dining experience.

Standout Dishes

  • Sashimi Platter: A selection of the day's freshest catches.
  • Spicy Tuna Roll: A crowd-pleaser with a satisfying heat.
  • Robata Skewers: Perfect for those who want to venture beyond sushi.

Va de Vi: A Wine Bar with Flavor

Rounding out the trio is Va de Vi, a beloved wine bar and bistro in Walnut Creek that has become a local institution. Known for its extensive wine list and inventive small plates, Va de Vi offers a relaxed yet sophisticated setting that appeals to both oenophiles and casual diners alike.

The Check, Please! reviewers were charmed by the restaurant's rustic-chic décor, complete with exposed brick and candlelit tables. The cheese and charcuterie boards were highlighted for their curated selection of artisanal offerings, while the short rib sliders provided a hearty, satisfying bite. The wine list, which features over 200 labels, is a journey through global vineyards, with knowledgeable staff on hand to guide pairings. Whether you're stopping by for a quick glass after work or settling in for a leisurely dinner, Va de Vi delivers a consistently delightful experience.

Don't Miss

  • Cheese Board: A rotating selection of domestic and imported cheeses.
  • Short Rib Sliders: Tender, flavorful, and perfectly sized.
  • Wine Tasting Flights: A great way to sample the extensive list.

Key Takeaways

These three Bay Area gems offer a diverse range of culinary experiences, from the robust, spice-forward dishes of Afghanistan to the clean, precise flavors of Japanese sushi and the convivial charm of a wine bar. Whether you're a local or just visiting, adding Afghan Awasana Kabob House, Hakashi Japanese Sushi Bar & Grill, or Va de Vi to your dining list is a decision you won't regret. As always, check their hours and make reservations where needed, as these spots are becoming increasingly popular. Bon appétit!