"Each year since 1993, The Chronicle Food staff has selected Rising Star Chefs, young newcomers who we feel are destined to make a significant difference in what we'll be eating in Bay Area restaurants. This year's crop of Rising Star Chefs is the youngest we've seen in 15 years, yet they're also among the most skilled and talented." The SF Chronicle's Rising Star chefs of 2007 are Nate Appleman (A16), Chris Kronner (Slow Club), Tim Luym (Poleng Lounge), Jennifer Kenny Nguyen (Salt House) and James Syhabout (PlumpJack Cafe).... More

"The avocado industry says it's expecting football fans to buy 53 million pounds of Hass avocados this week for Super Bowl Sunday, rivaling Cinco de Mayo for the day of the year when the most guacamole is consumed. The question is, after January's big freeze, will growers be able to meet the demand?" The SF Chronicle says California growers will do okay despite losing about 25% to 30% of their harvest due to cold fronts, but their avocados will be available for raised prices to California consumers who will also have access this month to avocados from both Chile and Mexico. Oh, and make sure to read all the way down to the end of the article for five... More