A local guide to 3 perfect days in San Francisco
San Francisco is the epitome of urban cool
San Francisco may conjure up visions of cable cars, sourdough and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, but its charm extends far beyond these familiar features that usually accompany a description of this unique city by the bay. It also happens to be one of the greenest cities in North America, so do as the locals do and bring your reusable tote bag, walk when possible and check out one of their many vegan eateries. Once you’ve sorted out where to stay, it’s time to focus on how to fill your days with all that this wonderful city has to offer. Dare to venture beyond Fisherman’s Wharf and Union Square to explore some of the lesser-known neighbourhoods of San Francisco. Three locals have curated their “perfect day” in their respective neighbourhoods, complete with food, shopping and most importantly: Food.
Despite some of the challenging hills, San Francisco’s streets are great to walk around
DAY 1 with Daniel: Castro/Mission
The Castro is known as a vivacious area to visit for delicious food and lively bars, but its history is equally impressive and it is celebrated proudly throughout its streets, most notably with the symbolic rainbow.
Start your day with a jolt of caffeine from Spikes Coffee, a perfect little spot for people watching, and the very place where Dustin Lance Black wrote his Oscar-winning screenplay for MILK- who knows what you’ll accomplish with a little caffeine in your system! If you prefer to walk and sip, head over to Corona Heights, a craggy, unspoiled park that offers stunning views of the city. Soak up visions of the bay while you try to locate iconic landmarks such as the Transamerica Pyramid and Bay Bridge. Next, wander around the streets of the Castro so you can check out the unique independent shops and boutiques while making your way to Rossi’s Deli. This unassuming spot is a sandwich lover’s paradise with a plethora of Italian meats, cheeses and bread for which to create your dream deli lunch. Grab some sandwiches, crisps and a couple of cold beverages and make your way to Dolores Park (less than a 10-minute walk). This popular park is located in the Mission District, known for its old-school taquerias and moody cocktail lounges. Daniel explains Dolores Park “is sectioned off like a Mean Girls cafeteria”, with subgroups of San Francisco locals occupying various areas of the sloped park.
A couple pausing to take in the San Francisco skyline
After soaking up the sun and vibrant atmosphere of Dolores Park, you’ll no doubt be in need of a cold treat. Thankfully, Bi-Rite Creamery, located at the edge of the park, makes small-batch ice cream using locally-sourced ingredients to create the most unique and delicious flavours, such as Peach Cobbler, Black Sesame and Honey Lavender. Now that your stomach is once again satisfied, it’s time to check out some local bars. After all, being a tourist is thirsty work! If you’re after some entertainment to accompany your drinks, the Lookout is your spot as it is infamous for its vivacious drag shows. If you prefer a chat and a more serene spot, try Moby Dick. Chat to the friendly staff as you sip your margarita and remark on the impressive fish tank that lives above the bar.
The options are plentiful for dinner, but Daniel highly recommends Starbelly, Sushi Time, Vico Cavone and Saucy Asian. If you’re not quite ready to call it a night, head to Toad Hall for a little boogie and cap your night off at Orphan Andy’s if you’ve happened to work up an appetite on the dance floor and need a midnight snack.
DAY 2 with Karishma: NoPa
NoPa, which stands for North of the Panhandle, is a trendy neighbourhood exploding with delicious eateries, boutiques and parks that line Divisadero Street. Its stunning and distinctive Victorian homes are populated by young families and students from the nearby university who revel in their proximity to some of San Francisco’s coolest restaurants and landmarks.
Some of the fine architecture you may find in San Francisco
This city takes its coffee seriously, and Automat is no exception. Take your coffee “to-go” as they say in the states, and don’t forget to order something to munch on too, such as a brioche donut or one of their tasty breakfast sandwiches. Now that you’ve secured some breakfast, make your way to the panhandle, which is the stretch of green that will lead you to the glorious Golden Gate Park. One could spend all day exploring this remarkable and extensive (over 1,000 acres!) park, but as your time is most likely limited, be sure to check out the Japanese Tea Garden, music concourse, Botanical Garden and Stow Lake. Head back towards Divisadero St. and make your way to Souvla, a delicious and fresh Greek lunch spot. Don’t forget to order the “Greek fries” along with your salad or sandwich and once again, get it “to-go” because you are now heading to one of San Francisco’s most iconic views, located at Alamo Square. The Painted Ladies, as they are fondly called, stand side by side in the foreground of the San Francisco skyline, providing the most perfect setting for yet another alfresco lunch.
Loaves of freshly made sourdough bread
If you want to pick up some local goodies, browse through some of the beautifully-curated shops like Rare Device, The Perish Trust and Onyx. Pre-dinner drinks are always a good idea and Fool’s Errand wine bar is the perfect spot to rest your legs while trying some of California’s famous wines. Try to snag one of their patio tables to watch the world go by as you relax into your evening. Book yourself a table at Che Fico for dinner, an upscale and lively Italian restaurant that specialises in great pasta and pizzas. To cap off your evening, pay a visit to Emporium, which is a theatre-turned-arcade bar, complete with all of your favourites like skee ball and Pac-Man. Need something more relaxed? The Page is a classic San Francisco haunt that feels laid back, and just the way to end an eventful day exploring NoPa.
Emma: Inner Richmond
The Inner Richmond, sometimes confused with the nearby city, Richmond, is most likely the least familiar neighbourhood on this list. Lucky for you, this ensures fewer tourists as well as hidden gems that are just waiting to be discovered!
The iconic Golden Gate bridge, San Francisco
Ariscult has gained somewhat of a cult following, evidenced by its consistent queues and rave reviews. Emma recommends the ham & cheese croissant and the Kouign Amann. If you’re up for a decent walk and a peek at the ocean, make your way down Lake Street, which was converted into a “slow street” during the pandemic, meaning no cars are permitted. This street also happens to be occupied by some staggeringly beautiful multi-million-pound homes that you can daydream about on your way to Baker Beach. Find yourself a spot on the sand and take in the views of the emblematic Golden Gate Bridge. Once you’ve had your fill of the ocean air, head to Clement Street where you can browse the local shops, including Foggy Notion, Fleet Wood and TANTRUM. Arguello Market is our lunch destination and happens to be the “home of the world’s famous turkey sandwich”. As luck would have it, it happens to be located right next to Golden Gate Park, the perfect setting to devour your lunch! Take this opportunity to explore a bit more of this epic park, perhaps the Conservatory of Flowers, the deYoung Museum or the Academy of Sciences. After a bit of culture and learning, dinnertime is upon us and B Star, a popular Burmese dining spot, is a local favourite in Inner Richmond. Emma highly recommends the Firecracker Cauliflower, Platha Dipper and Tea Leaf Salad. To round out your day, make your way to either High Treason for a glass of wine or Richmond Republic Draught House for one of their craft beers.
San Francisco at dusk
Top Tips for Visiting SF:
Weather: "The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco." This accurate quote from Mark Twain might give you an idea of the unexpected cold you might encounter in summer in San Francisco. Bring layers and don’t assume that just because it’s June in California that it will be warm!
Hills: Part of the unique charm of San Francisco is its rolling hills. While pretty to look at, they can be challenging to climb. Wear layers for when you get a little toasty and of course, comfortable shoes.
Getting Around: Despite what the films depict, cable cars are more of a novelty than a means of transport in San Francisco. SF is a fairly walkable city (perhaps minus the hills) due to it only being seven square miles. However, the bus is a useful option when your legs need a break.
What’s In a Name: Locals do not like when people call their beloved city the following: SanFran or Frisco. Safe options are San Francisco or the City.