What Makes CMD Hum

Here at CMD we are proud to relish in community. Much like my time, my heart is divided between two neighborhoods: the sunny mission, where the studio is located; and the beachside outer sunset, where I unwind at home. Both spots in this sweet city encourage artistry and originality, and I have a few neighborhood gems that keep me going with a smile on my face (even on those days when it’s hard to get my wheels turning).

Headed to the sunset? Make sure to swing by family-run Noriega Produce, a small-yet-impressive grocery store. I come for the fresh produce, but I stay for the warm conversations (and hugs that son Dimitri gives me every visit). Be sure to try their fresh-squeeze OJ for Sunday morning mimosas.

For health in the mission, I can’t recommend House of Qi enough. Specializing in Qi Gong Acupuncture (a unique approach combing bodywork), I have been seeing Joseph for acupuncture for 12 years and consider him and his staff family. They have—literally and figuratively—kept me healthy and humming since 2003.

Who’s in the mood for comfort food (is that even a question?). Mission Pie, just a couple short blocks from the CMD studio, is a darling spot to nab a hot coffee and lunch. Try the seasonal grain bowl and, of course, a cup of coffee (take it black for flavorful kick!)

And finally, there are some things money just can’t buy. For unbridled, cost-free joy, go directly to Ocean Beach—which I am proud to call my back yard. I smell the salt in the morning and hear the waves crashing at night. Ocean Beach is my home, and in the 14 years I’ve resided in SF there’s no place I have loved to live more. Nothing restores my mind, body and spirit like a Sunday walk along the sand. (Expect maybe a fresh-squeeze mimosa from Noriega Produce after.)