Slow Ride

We all know about fast food, but what about its opposite? Slow Food began where so many delicious things do: Italy. The movement got its start in the 1980s, when Carlo Petrini opposed a McDonald’s slated to open near the Spanish Steps in. Philosophically averse to the tyranny of convenience, Slow Food hallows the ancient taste, the artisan nibble, and the backyard glean. These strictures have earned its adherents the sticky “elitist” label in the past, but the catholic Slow Food Nation festival they’ve mounted this weekend should go a long way toward bringing in the unbelievers. With an almost indigestible number of events planned, the festival sprawls over four days, featuring Taste Pavilions (offering beer, bread, charcuterie, and native foods), lectures, films, dinners, dance, art, hikes, road trips, and rock concerts. Yes, even Gnarls Barkley apparently supports Slow Food. Be quick when it comes to registering; many events are already sold out. You don’t need tickets for the massive farmers’ market that kicks off today. With more than 60 California farms participating, it’ll be a treat for the senses.

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More About

• Slow Food International
• Carlo Petrini
• Gnarls Barkley
• Foods
• Food and Cooking

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The Slow Food Market opens at 9 a.m. at Civic Center Plaza, Polk & McAllister, S.F.
Aug. 29-Sept. 1, 2008