Back in Sebastopol
We set up at Golden State Cider in Sebastopol and it felt like one of those nights where everything just worked.
For Justin, it meant a little more. He grew up in Sebastopol when he was younger, so coming back to cook here always feels familiar. Different setup, same town. A lot of memories tied into it.
We kept the menu tight. Smashburgers and fried chicken. The burgers came off the flat top just how we like them. Crispy edges, juicy in the center, simple and consistent. The kind you can eat without overthinking it.
The fried chicken showed up strong too. A lot of people know us for burgers, but if you have had the chicken, you already know. It holds its own.
Golden State Cider was the perfect place for it. Good space, good people, and drinks that are easy to come back for. Their ciders hit that balance. Crisp, refreshing, not too sweet. Something you can sip on while you wait, then grab another once you get your food.
The line built up steady throughout the evening. People hanging around, talking, drinks in hand, just taking it all in. It never felt rushed. More like a gathering than anything else.
That is always the goal. Show up, cook good food, and let everything else fall into place.
Being back in Sebastopol made it even better. A familiar place, a full crowd, and a setup that felt right from the start.
We will be back.