Articles by Liz Smith Finders

Liz Smith Finders is a chef, who sometimes writes. Originally from the Midwest, she grew up fishing, hunting, foraging and gardening. Growing up on an organic farm her happiest memories include the smell of wet dirt, the snap of a sour apple fresh from the tree, and watching the humble strength of a tiny seed. As a chef, she has been lucky enough to train in some of the best kitchens in the world from Chez Panisse to Noma. Liz, her husband, 2 dogs, and 6 chickens are so grateful to have made a home on the Coastside and are loving every minute.

Just across the quaint stone bridge in downtown Half Moon Bay is a culinary treasure. Pasta Moon is a restaurant that manages to balance gracefully between two worlds. In 1987 Kim Levin, executive chef and owner, inspired by fresh local ingredients, opened a small six-seat restaurant in what is now the front half of the main dining… Read more →
Autumn is a beautiful time on the coast, with our abundance of pumpkin patches and uncharacteristically sunny coastal days. After a bustling day in the city and braving our Bay Area traffic, there is something special about getting home, settling in, and mixing a drink. Whether it is just for you, or for an autumn gathering,… Read more →
Before we head into gingerbread territory let’s be sure to give our Half Moon Bay pride — the pumpkin — it’s well deserved time in the limelight. There are still a few weeks left for us to get our Pumpkin Spice on. This syrup can be used in coffee, cocktails, ice cream and even to top French toast. Pumpkin Spice Syrup Ingredients Yields 2 cups 1 ½ cups water ¾ cup brown sugar (light or dark… Read more →