SFBG’s Juliette Tang gets a little satisfaction.
The free samples is how they get you. The sample is a gateway drug. Once you try a bolani, you’ll be hooked for life. They’re that good.
If you’ve ever been to any of the San Francisco farmer’s markets (or to any of the San Francisco Whole Foods stores), you might have passed an East and West Gourmet Afghan Food stand. And if you have, I’m sure one of their spectacularly convincing salespeople has handed you a free sample of bolani. Like I said, it’s all about the samples.
I remember my first sample as if it were yesterday.
I was at the Alemeny Farmer’s Market. I was minding my own business, filling my tote bags with fruits and vegetables, when — from the corner of my eye — I notice a small crowd milling about a nondescript, ubiquitous food stand shepherded by a pretty Middle Eastern girl. Out of curiosity, I head over to check out the action.