I like the tradition of “Best of” lists at the end of the year. So here’s my list of Best New Things in 2009. It’s not in any order, and includes anything that was new to me this year, no matter how old it really is. Many thanks to the people who pointed me to these things, as I really discover very little on my own.
* Going car-free, with a lot of faciltation from the folks at Velo Cult along with friends who have chauffeured me occasionally (thank you). And the growth of bicycling in our neighborhoods, in general.
* An exciting incipient community in Tijuana of American-expat artists, writers, photographers, and other fun people, with a public face provided by the incomparable Derrik Chinn. And the great local people and places they’ve introduced me to.
* Local meat from Albert and Curtis!
* Tacos Hola.
* Manivela, delivering food (and most anything else) on bikes throughout the ‘hood.
* Vintage Afro-beat and other African music on vinyl, courtesy Analog Africa. These records are amazing. Ethan often spins them on Sunday mornings and afternoon, if you’d like hear them come in and let him know.
* Suzie’s Farm — fantastic produce grown in the city of San Diego, in volume.
* DuVal’s Cafe.
* California-raised, whey-fed, acorn-finished Duroc breed pork.
* At the Linkery, the addition of the Caskenstein, Mr. Roboto and 40ish wines by the taste and glass, a new curing room, equipment for Smokehouse Sunday, and central heating. No wonder we were so busy/broke all year. Thanks Lee Chase, San Diego Urban Timber and AJ for your help with all the construction.
* This photo.
What were some of the best new things to you this year? Please share ‘em in the comments.
Although we are delighted (and honored) that you find us to be one of your best new things for 2009, I think the picture of Michael taken after the visit to Suzie’s Farm and after (what I assume to be) several tequila beverages, to be one of my favorite things of 2009.
Salud!