the traveling fro takes SF
I travel to San Francisco quite often for work. Which means yes, it is on the company’s dime, BUT it also means that I have very limited time to discover (I know sucks right?!) Luckily I have some great friends and family that live there that have given me a crash course. SF is a beautiful city with lots to DO, EAT, SEE and WEAR and I am not sure that it is obvious before you visit on what to hit, especially for an experience more on the “ethnic” side if you know what I mean. So I decided to share a few recos.
Do:
1. Bar hop in The Mission – the mission is a vibrant, dynamic trendy neighborhood with a unique vibe, definitely a must when in SF. A few of my favs:
- Blondies (generous martinis with good music)
- Double Dutch (old school hip hop with dope décor to match)
- Little Boabab (Senegalese joint with African music and a tiny but lively dance floor)
2. “Off the Grid” - taste every and any type of food on Friday evenings from the food mecca at Fort Mason Park
3. Drink in Dolores Park and enjoy the views – yes it is allowed
My SF girls and I at Little Boabab
Eat:
1. In general Mexican / Latin American food is a must – for obvious reasons a few to start with:
- Taqueria Cancun: for good authentic hole in the wall Mexican food. Perfect - cheap drunken meal, long line but worth it.
- If you are looking for something more central to FIDI during a work trip: Tropisueno.
- Destino/Pisco Bar: for date night/lounge vibe
- Don Pisto’s: for a turn up brunch with a big group of friends and just okay food, but who cares because you are having fun with good music. Drink fast because they give you 2 hours “unlimited” starting the moment you are seated.
2. Coqueta on Embarcadero – enjoy the view of the Bay Bridge and fresh air with yummy but filling Spanish tapas and awesome cocktails.
3. Bob’s doughnuts – its 24 hours and did I mention, doughnuts? Need I say more?
Here is a resource for additional seemingly appetite quenching food spots:
See:
1. Twin’s peak – highest peak in the city, worth the hike (but you could drive or ride up)
2. Golden Gate Bridge – wouldn’t be SF if you didn’t visit it at least once. If you have time and the weather is nice enjoy a small beach near the bridge to chill and take in the views.
3. Sausalito – on the other side of the Golden Gate, a small town with cute shops, fresh seafood. A ½ day trip with Napa/Sonoma wine tasting and great panorama views.
Golden Gate Bridge
The Painted Ladies
Wear:
1. Medium to light leather jacket. Or ALWAYS carry something that will keep you warm. The weather is different all over the city due to the elevations and the bay area climate. It could feel hot one minute and then freezing the next. You really never know. Wouldn’t hurt to add a scarf.
2. Heels – not necessary. SF isn’t exactly the most stylish place I have been. Clubs aren’t really a thing; it is more of a bar type of city when it comes to night life. Leave the heels and the hassle at home. Booties, flats, or even chucks will do.
3. SPF –after all it is sunny California.
Pretty much everything is uber/lyft-able as it is their birth place. You could also rent a car or bike around the city to really experience the SF lifestyle. Watch out for those hills though!
Let me know if you try any, have questions, or places for me to check out next time!
xo -- the traveling fro.