San Francisco is a perfect combination of high-tech start ups, hip arts and culture districts, and delicious authentic foods. With it’s unique architecture, distinct authenticity, and endless food fusion, San Francisco offers a vibe much different than many other parts of California. This was my first visit to San Francisco, and I have to say, I fell in love. The city offers everything from ritzy brunch spots to the best hole-in-the-wall burritos, and from high tech offices lining the waters, to the colorful european-like street atmosphere.
My purpose for visiting was to catch up with one of my best friends and previous roommate before heading off for 6 months on my Royal Caribbean contract. As I mentioned, I hadn’t ever been to San Francisco, and I wanted to see how life was treating her over there.
I lucked out with a cheap flight from PDX to SFO for only $150 round trip, and a place to stay in such a beautiful part of town, North Beach. From what I saw, this area is a more luxurious part of town, and was in walking distance from so many delicious restaurants and a great bar scene.
She lives on Union street in North Beach, and from what I’ve heard (and the feeling I got when I was there), this is a highly recommended area. Here’s a map to reference if you aren’t familiar.
Since I only had a weekend to explore, my knowledge is limited. I thought it would be best to paint it out by district so you can see all the cute places to explore around these areas.
North Beach
Where to Eat & Drink:
- Mona Lisa
- Italian Homemade
- 15 Romolo
- Maggies
- Kells Irish Bar
What to Do:
- Peir 39 – Fisherman’s Wharf
- See Alcatraz *You can take a tour, but it books out far out in advance.
- The Ferry Building
- Exploratorium
- Coit Tower
Mission
Where to Eat & Drink:
- La Taqueria
- Papitos
- Stonemill Matcha
What to Do:
- Mission street art and shops
- Mission Doloris Park
- Walk down Valencia Blvd
Marina
Where to Eat & Drink:
- Jaxson Country Bar
- Blackwood
- Tacolicious
- Brixton
- Equator Coffee
What to Do:
- Bike to Golden Gate Bridge and across
- Chestnut street shopping
- Lafayette Park