An Insider’s Guide To San Francisco
San Francisco’s allure lies in its trifecta of city, suburb and sea. From the bay-side beaches to the Golden Gate forestry (and Napa Valley vineyards just an hour away,) there’s an activity for every interest in the Bay Area. The Castro, The Haight, and Berkeley, just 30 minutes outside of the metro area, root the city in a history of freedom fighters and counter-culture charm. San Francisco has it all – and we’ve got the best of where to go, curated by a SF native, below.
Courtesy of @karlthefog
where to stay
Courtesy of Marriot
One of San Francisco’s most luxurious destinations is located in the center of San Francisco’s hustle and bustle. The St. Regis San Francisco serves as an oasis from the buzz, while simultaneously providing prime access to the downtown district.
Courtesy of All Acor
Standing opposite the Grace Cathedral church and nestled between Nob Hill, Union Square, and China Town, The Fairmont is the perfect location for easy access to all of San Francisco’s attractions. Don’t miss the Tanga Room - a cornerstone of the Fairmont experience. Eat and sip boat-side next to the indoor sailboat attraction.
Other chic hotels include The Proper, designed by Kelly Wearstler, which is a charming boutique hotel located in the Mid-Market District. The Argonaut, located by the Wharf, is a nautical-themed hotel that’s been around since the 70s.
WHERE TO EAT
Courtesy of Che Fico
Che Fico, San Francisco’s newest Italian hot spot, has graced the presence of Gwenyth Paltrow and Anderson Cooper within two weeks of opening. The celebrity sightings and packed reservation schedule (book a month in advance!) are for good reason. Fan favorites are the orecchiette with fennel sausage, broccoli rabe, goat butter, pecorino romano, and the olive oil cake. Bon Appetit!
Courtesy of Yelp
Gordo Taqueria is a coveted San Francisco treasure. Authentic, mouth-watering Mexican food with servings that get you a bang for your buck (cue the super burrito!) Just a short drive away from Ocean Beach, it’s the go-to sunset grab-n-go.
Courtesy of Tock
Just in case one Italian grub rec wasn’t enough, we came with a backup: A16 Consistently receiving top ranks for best Italian food in San Francisco, A16 is nestled into the cozy Chestnut Street neighborhood. Known for their take on Neapolitan-style pizza, you can’t go wrong with a lil ‘za.
Courtesy of Fiorello’s Gelato
So we may have cheated a bit on this one but for good reason! Just a 20-minute drive across the Golden Gate, Sol Food is Marin County’s sunset go-to grab-n-go. Take their pollo al horno with pique (a very important addition) and drive to the Marin Headlands or Bolinas Ridge for stunning views of the Bay Area’s best landscapes.
WHAT TO SEE
We would be remiss if we didn’t include a Crissy Field feature. Whether you’re here for a bay-side jog, hanging by the beach, or grabbing your morning coffee at the Warming Hut (pictured above), there really is something for everyone. If you’re here during Fleet Week, this is the place to catch a glimpse at the Blue Angels!
And just in case you weren’t a Full House fan growing up, Lombard Street is a must. Known as the “Crookedest Street in the World,” walk down eight hairpin turns for gorgeous views of the city.
Catch a glimpse at pieces from some of the most renowned collections at the SF MOMA, including artists such as Henri Matisse, Frida Khalo, and Georgia O’Keefe. If you’re a modern art fan, this is a must.
Don’t be fooled, the Golden Gate Park is much more than a view of the bridge. Start at the Ocean Beach entrance and stop by the Dutch Windmill (if you’re here in the Spring, catch a glimpse at the tulips.) Next, walk, bike, or rollerblade (yes, rollerblade. You’ll find plenty of San Franciscan rollerblading fleets here) to the Conservatory of Flowers. Whether you make a quick pitstop to see the outside or take the time to tour the indoor greenhouse, the scenery is worth the trip. From here, take your pick between the Japanese Tea Garden, California Academy of Sciences, or the de Young Museum - or better yet, hit them all!
WHERE TO SHOP
Courtesy of Trip Savvy
Union Square is the holy grail of shopping. You will find any chain store under the sun here. Keep your eyes peeled for the famous San Francisco heart sculpture, which is part of a collection of heart sculptures dotted throughout the city called “We Left Our Hearts in San Francisco” - too cute! If you come to Union Square in December, don’t miss the gigantic Christmas tree and ice skating rink.
Courtesy of SF GATE
On Sacramento Street Shops and Laurel Village, you can find some staple interior decor spots in addition to spruce up your next project. Some of our favs include Athem, Serena & Lily, Sue Fisher King, and Anyon Atelier.
Haight Street is perfect if you love thrift and vintage shopping as much as we do. Some of our go-to’s are Blue Bin Vintage, Buffalo Exchange, and Wasteland. Whether you’re here to shop or to travel back in time, Haight Street has preserved the best of the counter-culture decades.