Pumpkin Soup at Lolinda, $7
We love us some yummy food where an adorable back story is used as an ingredient. The chef behind this Argentinean resto has created a zesty pumpkin soup that serves as an upgrade to the pot his dad used to make. And while an “Awww” is definitely in order, even more so is a “Mmmm” once you take a spoonful of the stock. Mixed with the roasted squash (that’s also been caramelized!) are finely blended onions and carrots. To finish it off, the chef covers the velvety concoction with pumpkin seeds, orange zest, and a thick mousse, which conceals crushed chili peppers for an added kick. Once you’ve scraped the bowl clean, you’ll be exclaiming, “Mas por favor!”
Lolinda, 2518 Mission Street (at 21st Street); 415-550-6970.

Photographed by Anna-Alexia Basile