15 AAPI-owned spots to support on your next date

May 23, 2022/in Blog, Date Ideas, LA, NYC, SF /by CMB

May is here and brings us Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. A time to celebrate diverse cultures, support our communities, and honor the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders that have shaped who we are today. And as a company founded by three Korean sisters looking to shake up both the dating and entrepreneurial world, it holds a special place in our heart.

So in honor of AAPI Heritage Month, we’ve rounded up some AAPI-owned businesses in San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles that you can check out on your next first date. Or third date or anniversary date, or just when you feel like getting something good.

San Francisco Bay Area

Sue’s Gallery Cafe

This mom-and-pop shop with coffee, tea, and pastries is the perfect spot for a casual coffee date. And bonus, you can browse their handmade ceramics while you’re at it.

Home Coffee Roasters

Owners Annie Cheng and In Hwan Heo know a thing or two about coffee dates, as they went on weekly ones together while dreaming of opening a shop of their own. Now, you and your date can follow in their footsteps.

FOB Kitchen

Visit this Oakland spot for delicious Filipino fare and island-inspired cocktails, brought to you by owner and chef Janice Dulce who grew up in the Bay Area and Guam and is now bringing recipes learned from her family to the public.

Cha-Ya

To our non-meat eaters, this one’s for you! Family-owned and operated in San Francisco’s Mission District, this is a great spot if you’re in the mood for Japanese cuisine that’s entirely vegan, too.

Dumpling House

Grab some Chinese bites, beer, and tea from this casual, family-owned spot – with a chef whose twenty-plus years of dim sum expertise hail from Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong.

Los Angeles

B Sweet Dessert Bar

Looking for something less formal than dinner, but different from the standard coffee date? Grab something decadent, like their famous banana pudding, from this dessert bar owned and operated by Barb Batiste, who grew up baking sweets for her close-knit Filipino family.

Bopomofo Cafe

Serving Asian American cuisine, co-founders Philip Wang and Eric Wang turned to bo, po, mo, and fo, “the Chinese ABCs,” to come up with the name for their cafe. Stop by for tea, espresso, matcha, and plenty of shareables perfect for a date.

Broken Mouth

Did you know that in Hawaii, “broke da mout” is used by locals to describe food so good you don’t even have time to chew? Owner and Chef Tim Lee, Korean by blood and born and raised on Oahu, serves up homestyle Hawaiian food for Los Angeles. But if you’re on a first date, maybe try to chew a little.

Pine & Crane

Looking for a casual spot? Head over to this Taiwanese spot in Silver Lake for some staples like beef noodle soup and loose-leaf tea. Emphasis on casual, as it’s first come, first serve.

Maru Coffee

You can’t go wrong with a classic coffee date at this spot in the Arts District. The name comes from native Korean San Ma Ru, which means “mountaintop,” to symbolize their high-quality coffee, as the best beans come from high altitudes.

New York City

Kopitiam

Head to this Lower East Side spot, which means “coffee shop” in Hokkien, for a taste of Nyonya cuisine. Chef and owner Kyo Pang uses family recipes and traditions to introduce visitors to this blend of Chinese and Malay flavors.

Soft Swerve

In the mood for something sweet? Soft Swerve has two locations in NYC where you can cool off with Asian-inspired ice cream flavors like matcha and ube purple yam.

Ihawan

Take your date to try the best barbecue in town at this family-owned and operated Filipino spot in Woodside. You’ll find classic dishes from the Philippines, plus their specialty Kapampangan cuisine.

Pasteur Grill & Noodles

Looking for a spot in Chinatown? Head here for authentic Vietnamese food that’s the byproduct of generations’ worth of family recipes.

Té Company

If the casual coffee date isn’t your thing, how about tea instead? This intimate spot in the West Village has a wide variety of teas sourced from Taiwan, plus Taiwanese food to pair with it.

Let’s support our communities together

We know this list is far from complete, so don’t hesitate to branch out and find other AAPI-owned spots in your area, this May and beyond! And if you have locations in mind and want to share with others, head over to our Instagram post and drop it in the comments.

California Singles! Let's Compare Dating in San Francisco vs. Los Angeles

June 3, 2014/in LA, SF /by CMB

On the west coast, there’s the classic rivalry of NorCal versus SoCal. So, how does dating stack up between the two great cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles?

1. Where you met:

SF: You were introduced at a house party. Or online, through one of the many dating apps everyone seems to be on.
LA: At the Equinox while snapping a #gymselfie or as you were both picking up your puppies from doggy daycare.

2. Your first date:

SF: Overpriced coffee at an artisanal, organic coffee shop in the Mission.
LA: Overpriced cocktails at a trendy restaurant in Venice.

3. He showed up:

SF: At 6:15pm, wearing a North Face jacket and sneakers. He was 15 minutes late because his shuttle bus was attacked by protestors.
LA: 30 minutes late because of bumper-to-bumper traffic on the 405.

4. She showed up:

SF: Wearing jeans and a t-shirt, carrying a yoga mat.
LA: Wearing a skin-tight Herve Leger dress and heels, yoga mat optional.

5. During the date, he says:

SF: “I’m just killing it at my start-up. I hella want to retire by 35, especially if my investments in Bitcoin go well. Do you want another craft beer?”
LA: “I’m working on a screenplay, but I’ve been busy with my improv group and personal trainer. Is this dish gluten-free?”

6. During the date, she says:

SF: “I just got my Google glass and love them. Can’t wait to go wine tasting in Napa this weekend.”
LA: “I have a yoga retreat in Palm Springs next weekend where we’re doing a group juice cleanse.”

7. After the date:

SF: You compete to see who can get an Uber or Lyft on their phone quicker. You split fare on the app.
LA: You make sure to check out what kind of car he/she drives. Then you drive away in opposite directions.

8. Second date:

SF: Walking around the farmers market, picking up locally grown strawberries. Or dinner eating organic kale and quinoa salad at The Plant.
LA: Pretend to be outdoorsy for a day. Put on a pair of $100 lululemons and “hike” Runyon Canyon.

9. Form of communication:

SF: Snapchat. Any evidence of your flirty exchanges will self-destruct in 10 seconds.
LA: Instagram. Everyone wants more followers. #nofilter

10. Long-term dating potential:

SF: Greater than 50%. People always need a +1 to bike across the Golden Gate Bridge with.
LA: Depends on how far you live from each other. If he/she lives across the city, it’s basically long-distance.
–

Did you enjoy this post? Then make sure to check out Dating on Coffee Meets Bagel vs. Tinder.

About Coffee Meets Bagel (CMB): Every day at noon, we introduce you to one single with whom you share mutual friends. You have 24 hours to LIKE or PASS your match (aka “Bagels”). Mutual LIKE leads to direct connection via text message on a private phone line.

Who Has More Fun when it Comes to Dating: New York or San Francisco?

April 7, 2014/in NYC, SF /by Guest Blogger

The following article is a guest post, courtesy of Dana Middleton

New York and San Francisco are large, cosmopolitan cities that have a lot to offer in terms of entertainment, culture, shopping and dining. But the similarities between the two cities end right there, especially when it comes to dating.

Let’s take a closer look as to how the game is played in the contemporary battlefield of romance where New Yorkers and San Franciscans win, lose and break hearts.

1. Where you meet:

NYC: Either some East Village dive bar or some fratastic sports bar in Murray Hill.

SF: You were introduced at a house party. Or online, through one of the many dating apps everyone seems to be on.

2. Your first date:

NYC: Overpriced drinks at a dark, loud but chic lounge in SoHo.

SF: Overpriced coffee at an artisanal, organic coffee shop in the Mission.

3. He showed up:

NYC: At 10pm, coming straight from his investment bank’s office, wearing a suit and a tie.

SF: At 6:15pm, wearing a hoodie and sneakers. He was 15 minutes late because his shuttle bus was attacked by protesters.

4. She showed up:

NYC: Hair blown out at Drybar, wearing a tiny little black dress and heels.

SF: Wearing jeans a T-shirt, carrying a yoga mat.

5. During the date, he:

NYC: “I just gotta check my emails one more time. I’m working on a really important deal. I can’t talk about it. What was I saying? Oh yes, will be out in the Hamptons this weekend.”

SF: “I’m just killing at my start-up. I want to retire by 35. Especially if my investments in Bitcoin go well. Until then, I’m just gonna keep going skiing in Tahoe on and go on meditation retreats.”

6. During the date, she:

NYC: “TheEast Side is SOOOO much better than the West Side. I love having brunch & mimosas at Sarabeth’s. And I always hang out at Ulysses for happy hour.”

SF: “I just got my Google glasses and love them. Can’t wait to go wine tasting in Napa this weekend.”

7. After the date:

NYC: He got in a black town car. She got in a taxi, after pleading with the driver to take her back to Williamsburg.

SF: You competed to see who can get an Uber or Lyft on their phone quicker. You split the fare on the app.

8. Second date:

NYC: You have a 50-50% chance of making it that far. But if you do, get ready for some tapas at Casa Mono or sushi at Morimoto. (That is if he is trying really hard to impress her)

SF: Walking around the farmers market, picking up locally grown strawberries. Or dinner eating organic kale & quinoa salad at The Plant.

9. Form of communication:

NYC: Email or BBM. Wait, people still use blackberries? Yeah, in NY they do.

SF: Snapchat. Any evidence of your flirty exchanges will self-destruct in 10 seconds.

10. Long-term dating potential:

NYC: Hit or miss. One of you is bound to get way too busy with work.

SF: Greater than 50%. People always need a +1 to bike across the Golden Gate Bridge with.

Did you love this post? Then check out The Only Dating Timeline You’ll Ever Need: Dating Advice For Women!
About Coffee Meets Bagel (CMB): Every day at noon, we introduce you to one single with whom you share mutual friends. You have 24 hours to LIKE or PASS your match (aka “Bagels”). Mutual LIKE leads to direct connection via text message on a private phone line.

A First Date Idea That’s Almost Better Than Sex

November 5, 2013/in SF /by Guest Blogger

Are you ready for one of the best first date ideas in town? Treat your date to an orgasmic experience they won’t soon forget. Enter the one-and-only Ramenburger: the latest craze since the Cronut. This melt-in-your-mouth combination of a thick, juicy burger sandwiched between crisp, pan-fried ramen noodles has been making headlines since its creation in mid-June of this year.

Go Out:

These mouth-watering burgers are being served daily at Nombe, a trendy, Tokyo-style izakaya located in San Francisco’s Mission District. You and your bagel can try Chef Mari Takahashi’s renowned burger in all its glory, a beautiful concoction of pork belly and Wagyu beef burger sandwiched between a crispy ramen bun and garnished with tomato, mizuna salad, caramelized onions, pickled Japanese cucumbers, and wasabi aioli. Soak in the chill atmosphere and unwind over sake and shochu cocktails. Don’t forget to try other Nombe fan favorites like the pork belly, black cod, and bacon wrapped mochi!

Stay In:

Looking for a more chill, second date? You and your date can easily recreate the Ramenburger in the comfort of your own kitchen. Check out this great recipe and head out to the local supermarket to get started. Don’t be afraid to get creative with add-ins like avocado, lotus chips, tempura flakes and any other toppings that float your boat.
Besides what’s hotter than a man who can cook? A man who can cook…Ramenburgers. Oh, yes!
Don’t forget to check out our article on PaintNite for another creative date idea!

best coffee art; good first date; date idea

Best Coffee Shops in San Francisco for a Good First Date

October 3, 2013/in SF /by Guest Blogger

Best coffee shops; San Francisco map; Soma coffee; first date idea

Best coffee between SoMa and Fidi

It’s noon and the cute bagel you’re matched with today likes you back. After exchanging texts all afternoon, you’re excited to meet for coffee. But where do you meet? Your bagel works in SoMa and you are in the Financial District. What are the best coffee shops in San Francisco between the two of you?

Coffee Meets Bagel is here to help you with one of the best first date ideas:

best coffee shop; La Boulange; coffee break; first date

It’s hard to decide which pastry to chose at La Boulange.

La Boulange de Yerba Buena (map)
Have a sweet tooth and a coffee craving? La Boulange is the perfect place to take your bagel. Freshly baked chocolate and hazelnut croissants, almond and apricot tarts, and large palmiers are irresistible in this conveniently located coffee spot. Grab two hot mochas and you’re sure to enjoy your afternoon date.

best coffee; sf; blue bottle; afternoon date

Coffee brewed to perfection

Blue Bottle Coffee (map)
Tucked away from the nearby bustle of Union Square, this modern establishment with grand ceilings caters to the more hardcore coffee lovers. The New Orleans iced coffee is a must try – strong, just the right amount of sweetness, and smooth at the same time. The lattes also have beautiful etching latte art at Blue Bottle Coffee.

coffee shop; san francisco; sightglass; good first date idea

Secret hideaway in the heart of SoMa

Sightglass Coffee (map)
Walking into Sightglass Coffee transports you into another world. The industrial, yet laid back feel instantly relaxes you. This spacious coffee house currently features a coffee from Guatemala with apricot, raspberry, and blackberry taste notes. Indulge in a rich coffee blend and experience this SoMa escape.

Philz signature mint mojito iced coffee

Philz Coffee (map)
A local favorite, Philz Coffee has quite the following for a reason. Customer service is imbedded within the culture of this establishment and customized coffee blends are made specifically to your liking (sometimes combining up to seven different beans at a time!). This coffee experience is truly unique and is a must try for any coffee lover. Be warned: you may seriously become addicted!

Creative Date Ideas in San Francisco: Clubbing at Lunchtime?

July 24, 2013/in SF /by Guest Blogger

The following article is a guest post, courtesy of Bronson Farr

Hey Bagels!
Your lunch break can be full of decisions and questions to make:
-Do I want a burger or a salad?
-Where should I go to grab food?
-Am I willing to wait in line for my favorite spot today?
–Should I go to a lunchtime dance party with some co-workers?
Wait…What was that last one?
Lunchtime dance parties are the latest European trend that have hit New York and are now making their way to the West Coast (you can read more about it in this New York Times article). These events are hosted by online culture guide Flavorpill and Absolut Vodka. You only get one hour to dance like no one is watching, and when the music stops you get to leave with some free food!
For all of you SF Bagels out there there will be one of these events happening this Friday. It’s also one of many creative date ideas in San Francisco if you happen to be new in town. You can RSVP here get in on the action and start your weekend early. You can even “donate some of your unused lunch money to the San Francisco and Marin Food Banks for a feel-good bonus.”
WHAT: ABSOLUT Lunch Break featuring Peanut Butter Wold
WHERE: Secret SF Location (RSVP to find out!)
WHEN: Friday (7/26) from 1-2pm
If you can’t make it to this one, don’t worry. Flavorpill will be hosting more lunchtime events in the next 2 months. Be sure to sign up here if you want more information.

Creative Date Ideas in SF: For the Lazy, For the Fun, and For the Active

July 17, 2013/in SF /by Guest Blogger

The following article is a guest post, courtesy of Catherine Nguyen

Hey SF Bagels,
Although summer in SF isn’t exactly 85 degrees and sunshine, we got 3 creative date ideas in SF for how to make the most of the great outdoors and the (lack thereof) of sunshine.

For the Lazy: Beach it Out
If you’re feeling lazy and want to soak up some rays for a hot summer tan, take your date out to a nearby beach!
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk offers lots of live entertainment, fun rides, and of course funnel cakes to fulfill your every beach desire. Only an hour away, Santa Cruz is always bustling with sunny weather and good eats nearby.

Of course, if you’re feeling even more lazy and don’t want to make the commute, the Pacific Ocean is right around the corner. Check out Bakers’ Beach off the Presidio western shoreline, where you can get a spectacular view of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Pro tip: the northern section of Baker Beach is arguably “frequented by clothing-optional sunbathers” or in other words, may be a nude beach, so be prepared (or not).

For the Fun: Bike Around the City
If you’re feeling adventurously fun, rent a bike for the day and hit up one of SF’s many bike trails for a scenic and romantic ride away.
We personally recommend the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito bike route. Starting from Fort Mason, this route crosses the Golden Gate Bridge, where you can make a pit stop in Sausalito, a gorgeous waterfront, urban town. Rent your bike from Blazing Saddles where they have locations in both SF and Sausalito, so if your adventurous-ness wears out, you can ride the ferry back to Pier 41.

Still feeling wary? Use SF Bicycle Coalition to plan your next trip safely and soundly!

For the Active: Hiking
You can easily find that picture-perfect view of San Francisco along the many trails of the Marin Headlands. What’s also great about hiking here is that some of the trails lead to Kirby Cove, which is another beach with a spectacular view of the Golden Gate Bridge.
But if you’re looking for more of a nature trail check out the Muir Woods National Monument. This destination is surrounded by tall redwood trees, and the trails are divided by how long they take to complete (i.e. half an hour or one hour).

Only at the Marin Headlands can you get a spectacular view of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco.

Dating like its the 90’s: Creative Date Ideas in SF

July 9, 2013/in SF /by Guest Blogger

The following article is a guest post, courtesy of Catherine Nguyen

Remember in the old days when your date would come to your house, meet your parents, and then you two would be off on your merry way? Well we’re looking to bring that back with Throwback Week, bringing to you creative date ideas that are always a classic and timeless go-to (except for the meeting-the-parents part). We’ve already kicked it off with LA, and today we’ll be focusing on SF.

Dine with Lori’s Diner
When did diner dates ever go out of fashion? Actually, never! We’re all for the old-fashioned joints that have maintained their classic look, and that’s what you’ll find at Lori’s Diner. Located in the heart of Union Square, Lori’s Diner is exactly what you imagine a diner to look like – red booths, Chocolate malts, french fries, juke boxes, and root beer floats. You may even get pinned!

Wash it Down with Bi-Rite Creamery
Nothing tastes better after a tasty meal with some ice cream, and no one makes it better than Bi-Rite Creamery in the Mission District. They serve all of your favorite ice cream combinations, from sundaes, sandwiches, and soft serve, in the traditional flavors but with a special twist. Chocolate and vanilla are on the menu, but so are strawberry basil and honey lavendar – yum!

Pro Tip: Split a sundae with your bagel or lick off each others cones – either way, Bi-Rite’s Creamery is a surefire way to have a sweet time.

Watch Classic Films in Castro Theatre
In the mood for some classic films, like The Night of the Hunter, the original Exorcist, and modern ones like the Great Gatsby? Check out Castro Theatre on Castro Street, where the theatre is well preserved to provide an old time feel – 70mm capabilities on the screen, 1,200 seats with a balcony, a wurlitzer & classic wurlitzer guy, and preserved frescos on the interior.

4 Spots to Watch the Fireworks for 4th of July in San Francisco

July 1, 2013/in SF /by Guest Blogger

The following article is a guest post, courtesy of Bronson Farr

Hey CMBers!
Watching the fireworks over the bay is an exciting event for 4th of July in San Francisco each year. While Fisherman’s Wharf is where the big celebration is going to be at, we have also picked out some spots in the city where it isn’t as crowded and still enjoy the show.
1) Front Row Seats: Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf is where to get the front row seats for the firework spectacular over the water. The Fourth of July Celebration Pier also features two live bands in the afternoon if you want to make it an all day event.

The best place to watch fireworks in San Francisco is Fisherman’s Wharf.

WHAT: Fourth of July Celebration At the Pier
WHERE: Fisherman’s Wharf (Pier 39)
WHEN: Thur., July 4th; Live band performances from 12-2pm & 4-7pm, Fireworks show @ 9:30pm

2) Most Intimate: Bernal Heights Hill
If you want to show your date want a great view of the fireworks this Independence Day, and also want some intimacy, look no further than Bernal Hill. The view isn’t like that of Twin Peaks, but it is definitely one of the best views that overlooks the City.

A great view of San Francisco from Bernal Heights Hill

3) Most Outdoorsy: Land’s End Trail (From Legion of Honor to Sea Cliff)
Land’s End Trail offers great views of the ocean and San Francisco Bay, but if you want to watch the fireworks check out the section of the trail that goes from the Legion of Honor to Sea Cliff. Not only does this portion face the Golden Gate Bridge (where the show will take place), it also gives you a nice view of the Bay Area. The trail is also surrounded by trees, giving it “the great outdoors” feel.

While the Legion of Honor is a sight to see in itself…

…the view is even more amazing.

4) Least Crowded: Alta Plaza Park
Facing the bay, this park directly overlooks San Francisco’s Marina district. This spot is far enough from the crowds at Fisherman’s Wharf, but still close enough to get a great view of the show. Be sure to arrive early as it is close to downtown as well as a residential area.

Alta Plaza Park overlooks the Marina district out onto the bay.

3 Ways to Escape the Fog- Outdoor Date Ideas SF

June 24, 2013/in Date Ideas, SF /by Guest Blogger

It’s now been summer for three days in San Francisco, which anyone will tell you is one of the coldest winters a body could suffer. Many would misquote that timeless Mark Twain witticism that no Bay Area local can walk ten feet without hearing (though unfortunately, he never actually said it), but rather than start off this Monday on an obnoxious note, I’d rather present you with three outdoor date ideas to help you escape the fog and experience some real California sun this summer.

1. Sausalito
Believe it or not, directly across the bridge the fog completely dissipates and leaves you standing overdressed in a sunny seaside village called Sausalito. This is a place for the foodie in you, as many of the restaurants and bars are infamous for their stellar culinary exploits. For some outdoor chillage with great wine and even better food, pick Bar Bocce, whose outdoor patio lets your pasty self absorb all of the vitamin D you can handle whilst sipping excellent cocktails and playing some backyard bocce ball.

2. West Marin
For those of you looking to have a woodland adventure, look no further than West Marin. The region, extending from the sleepy surf town of Fairfax all the way out to Point Reyes and Tamales Bay has some of the most unspoiled natural wonders that Northern California is famous for, from the redwood cathedrals of Samuel P. Taylor park, to the sapphire beaches that are Stinson and Bolinas. If you’ve got a weekend empty of plans, go rent a campsite out at Wildcat Camp at Point Reyes National Seashore— you might be the only ones out there, and the trails and coastline are something that every Bay Area local should see.

3. Berkeley
Another area generally devoid of San Francisco’s wet-coldness in the summertime, Berkeley is an excellent choice when picking a sunny destination with a home-y feel. It has a little something for everyone, boasting a fun and vibrant downtown area and at the same time catering to the outdoors with some of the best rock climbing and outdoor destinations around. My pick is Tilden Lake, where you can go have a barbecue and swim in the sun, and when done, drive five minutes out of the hills and get your fix of good music and good beer on the outdoor patio at Jupiter.

San Francisco Bay Area

Sue’s Gallery Cafe

Home Coffee Roasters

FOB Kitchen

Cha-Ya

Dumpling House

Los Angeles

B Sweet Dessert Bar

Bopomofo Cafe

Broken Mouth

Pine & Crane

Maru Coffee

New York City

Kopitiam

Soft Swerve

Ihawan

Pasteur Grill & Noodles

Té Company

Let’s support our communities together

1. Where you met:

2. Your first date:

3. He showed up:

4. She showed up:

5. During the date, he says:

6. During the date, she says:

7. After the date:

8. Second date:

9. Form of communication:

10. Long-term dating potential:

1. Where you meet:

2. Your first date:

3. He showed up:

4. She showed up:

5. During the date, he:

6. During the date, she:

7. After the date:

8. Second date:

9. Form of communication:

10. Long-term dating potential:

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