By Lord Martine
Blazing into its 17th triumphant year, AsiaSF, in a city of icons, has achieved iconic status as the must-visit entertainment landmark that continues to pioneer the modern transgender movement. A vision of proprietors Larry Hashbarger, Skip Young, Greg Lockamy and Aaron Nelson, this restaurant/cabaret/dance club is the choice for those celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, bachelorette parties, office fetes and life itself. AsiaSF is categorically the ultimate San Francisco experience in culinary excellence, exemplary service, breathtaking entertainment and eclectic diversity.
“AsiaSF’s mission has always been to create dignified career opportunities for all its transgender employees by celebrating human diversity,” Hashbarger says. “We change people’s attitudes—without preaching. Many of our guests have never had the experience we offer. They become enlightened. We have created a sacred space where it’s ok to be you.”
Making AsiaSF an incomparable destination of celebrated diversity are the luminaries of the evening: the resplendent and talented ladies of AsiaSF. Each night, the world-famous transgender superstars serve superb three-star Cal-Asian cuisine and—directed by choreographer Ronnie Reddick—deliver dazzling hourly performances atop the red runway.
“Our chromatic AsiaSF family,” Hashbarger says, “creates opportunity for our cherished customers to become further enlightened to the rich contribution and relevance of each human being. We’ve established intimate relationships with hundreds-of-thousands of people worldwide. To witness the reception of a dream, with which I am so impassioned, brings joy and gratitude.”
Equally enticing is the delectable three-star Cal-Asian cuisine. The menu of titillating specialty plates is designed for AsiaSF pleasure enthusiasts to share. Each dish is artfully prepared with experienced consideration, using only the freshest of seasonal produce and the finest locally procured ingredients.
Of the mouthwatering first course distinctions are the signature Asia-dillas: a quesadilla stuffed with smoked duck, jack cheese, fresno peppers and scallions topped with a sun-dried cherry crème fraiche. The tantalizing Grilled Shrimp and Herb Salad teases the taste buds with a chiffonade of Chinese cabbage, cilantro, mint, basil, toasted coconut and chopped peanuts tossed in a Thai vinaigrette.
Among the exceptional main courses, foodies rave about the perfectly grilled “Baby Got Back” tender pork ribs served with a honey-tamarind glaze, pickled carrot slices and sweet potato crisps. Another outstanding hit is the sautéed Miso Glazed King Pacific Salmon served on a bed of black “forbidden” rice and sweet tomato-edamame salad.
Finally, AsiaSF offers a profusion of extravagant libations and prodigious signature cocktails. Each gem is inspired by, and is named after, the darling ladies of AsiaSF, and is made with top-shelf liquors, the freshest juices and quality mixers. Choice sips include Amber’s AppleSaketini, which is a sexy infusion of unfiltered sake, apple liqueur and sweet and sour. Karmina’s Kiss is a sweet concoction of Finlandia vodka, peach schnapps, Triple Sec, orange, pineapple and cranberry juices over a layer of grenadine.
“Here, it’s a celebrAsiaSF!” Young says. “Upon entering, our guests rapidly imbibe the inviting conviviality. Together, we create happy memories that last a lifetime.”
AsiaSF is located at 201 Ninth Street at Howard Street. For reservations, please call 415- 255-ASIA (2742) or find us online at asiasf.com
Edge Boston has called Lord Martine “San Francisco’s Nightlife King,” due to his successful work on so many events in the city. He is a well-known marketing and PR consultant, as well as a writer, producer and fashion designer.
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