May 16th, 2011

After a short hiatus, BARC is pleased to announce the renewal of our longstanding relationship with HP. The initial assignments will be generating branding and consumer positioning for new product launches from the San Diego based LaserJet & Enterprise Imaging & Printing Group. This HP division includes a portfolio of devices, supplies, software and solutions that span multiple customer segments, including enterprise, small to midsize business, and consumer.

February 17th, 2011

Nothing says celebration like sparkling wine! BARC toasted the new year with a new client: Sonoma, California-based winemaker Freixenet USA. BARC was selected as promotions agency of record for integrated in-store campaigns after a competitive agency review by Freixenet in Q4 2010.

Freixenet USA, a division of Freixenet America, is the largest importer of Spanish wines and sparkling wines in the U.S. The company’s portfolio includes Freixenet, Segura Viudas, Castellblanch, René Barbier, Tapeña, and the wines of the Heredad Collection (all Spain); Gloria Ferrer (Carneros, California); Champagne Henri Abelé (Reims, France), Premius (Bordeaux and various Vin de Pays, France); Nick Faldo Selection (Coonawarra, Australia) and Deakin Estate (NW Victoria, Australia); Finca [ñ] and Acordeón (Mendoza, Argentina). The company also distributes a number of fine Bordeaux from exclusive chateaux such as Lascombes and Taillefer. More information on Freixenet’s portfolio of wines is available at www.freixenetusatrade.com.

February 17th, 2011

Hello foodie friends! It’s that time again, time for another installment of Nick’s Picks. I’m Nicole, BARC AE and resident foodie – keeping you in the know on the places to go in San Francisco. Finding delicious food at a reasonable price in SF can be challenging, however see below for the inside scoop on great eats at a bargain price.

Marengo on Union – One of the newest restaurants in the city. It’s a whiskey and slider bar with a retractable roof (for those rare, but lovely warm San Francisco days). If you like whiskey, this is certainly a place to try out some innovative drinks, but they also have a full bar. The food consists of American fare ranging from salads to sliders. The sliders are not your everyday small patties in a bun as they range from pulled pork to lamb. Pair these little bites of deliciousness with the sweet potato fries and the cheese dip and you will be in food coma heaven!

Tacolicious – My favorite new Mexican restaurant in the city. The menu is simple focusing on street tacos ranging from chorizo and potato to filet mignon. The tequila cocktails are some of the best I’ve had in the city and the “chupito” option to try a few drinks in smaller size is a great concept. However, the best item on the menu is the tuna tostada, including tuna sashimi and avocado on top of a tostada. Try it, you will not leave disappointed!

LaLola – Tapas restaurant in Nob Hill, specializing in traditional Spanish tapas. Definitely a great place to bring a bunch of friends to experience a taste of Madrid. Try the patatas bravas and tortilla Espanola paired with sangria. Speaking of sangria, they have one of the best happy hours in the city with $3 glasses of Sangria and $3 Stellaon tap! The menu is broken out into sections by price, so it is easy to find something tasty within your budget.

Pacific Catch – The most casual of the places I’ve mentioned, they are known for their wasabi bowls, which is basically a deconstructed sushi roll in a bowl. They also have amazing fish tacos and fish entrees. Best bet is the ahi poke wasabi bowl with a side of sweet potatoes!

Next time I’ll focus on sandwiches…until then, happy eating!