The Annual JP Morgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco is viewed as the formal kick-off to each new year for the biotechnology industry. We all congregate in the crowded halls of the Westin St. Francis and mingle with our colleagues from around the country or the world for three or four days, while we absorb news of progress in bringing drugs to the market or learning about new tools to help us change the healthcare landscape. One of the big side-benefits of spending a few days in San Francisco for the foodies among us is to experience the SF restaurant scene, which is a delight for most of us converging upon the city from less-culinary prized locations. I had the good fortune to experience dining at Gary Danko this year, along with my friends from Cooley Godward. What a delight. The atmosphere was warm, with a busy bustle, but not so loud as to preclude conversation. The service was divine, with just the right attentiveness, but not bordering on intrusive. Each course was a work of art as we examined each selection upon arrival at the table.
The prices on the menu were actually a pleasant surprise, offering you a selection of 3, 4 or 5 courses.
3 Courses $71 4 Courses $89 5 Courses $104
A few of the table favorites were:
Risotto with Lobster, Rock Shrimp, Shimeji Mushrooms, and Butternut Squash
Lobster Salad with Avocado, Citrus, Shaved Fennel, Baby Artichokes and Mustard-Tarragon Vinaigrette
Seared Sea Scallops with Butternut Squash Purée, Shimeji Mushrooms, Apples, Caramelized Cauliflower and Tarragon
The highlight of the meal, however, was the cheese cart, offering you between sixteen and twenty selections from around the world. Although all the courses were wonderful, these cheeses were a special treat and You must leave room for this course when visiting!