Best Restaurants in San Francisco

This is my favorite part of beautiful San Francisco.  This city may be renowned for many things, but it excels beyond all others in its fine dining restaurants.  Whether you are looking for french cuisine or lavish steakhouses with the best cuts of beef in the world, SF has what you are looking for.  Below are the ten best dining experiences in San Francisco:

1. Farallon

415-956-6969
450 Post St
San Francisco, CA 94102

Opened in 1997 by Chef Mark Franz and restaurateur and designer Pat Kuleto in one of the most architecturally significant buildings in the Union Square area. Built in 1924 for the Elk’s Club, it now houses the Farallon restaurant, Kensington Park Hotel and the Post Street Theater. This building was featured in a ten-page article in the inaugural issue of Architectural Digest. Kuleto has designed this restaurant resembling a beautiful underwater fantasy that has proven to be the ideal setting for the sophisticated “coastal cuisine” menu created by Chef Franz. This coastal cuisine may include Seared Atlantic Diver Scallops, Cast Iron Roasted Maryland Striped Bass, or Grilled Hawaiian Hebi; the menus are updated regularly as Farallon supports farms, ranches and fisheries guided by principles of sustainability.

2. The Dining Room at The Ritz-Carlton

415-296-7465
603 Stockton St
San Francisco, CA 94108

“Iron Chef” Ron Siegel ‘s menu is steeped in the classic French technique born from his classical French training in the kitchens of Thomas Keller, Daniel Boulud, and Michael Mina. The unmistakable touches of Japanese sensibilities and specialty ingredients – the delicate infusions, sauces, emulsions, and oils that match and mingle with many specialty spices and salts – result in an everlasting and incomparable epicurean experience. Director of Wine Stephane Lacroix guides guests through his extensive and award-winning wine list to select the perfect wine to enhance Chef Ron Siegel’s daily creations and provide guests with an unforgettable food & wine experience.

3. Acquerello

415-567-5432
1722 Sacramento St
San Francisco, CA 94109

Named for its original watercolors, it envelops guests in a warm and gracious atmosphere the moment they arrive. A recent renovation of the 17-year old restaurant, led by designer John Wheatman, highlights the former chapel, graced with arches and a rustic wood-beamed vaulted ceiling, with warm Mediterranean colors of gold and terracotta. The 50 seat dining room is softly illuminated with light from polished brass lamps which dances off an extensive collection of crystal decanters and a large floral bouquet greeting guests as they enter. Co-owners Giancarlo Paterlini and Suzette Gresham-Tognetti work together to provide an unparallel Italian dining experience. Acquerello has received countless awards, including a Michelin star in the first-ever 2007 Bay Area guide.

4. La Folie

415-776-5577
2316 Polk St
San Francisco, CA 94109

A charming, family run restaurant with cotton-candy clouds painted on sky-blue walls, Chef Roland Passot serves generous portions of astoundingly good food. You simply can’t err when you order from Passot’s exuberant but disciplined menu. The owner’s roots surface in the decidedly Franco-California wine list. Choose from deep selection of excellent reds from Bordeaux or opt for one of the “discovery wines” from lesser-known wine regions of Australia and Chile. To accommodate the growing number of vegetarians, Passot has thoughtfully included a separate Vegetable Lover’s Menu. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends.

5. Gary Danko

415-749-2060
800 N Point St
San Francisco, CA 94109

Gary Danko, the award-winning chef, has come to epitomize sophisticated contemporary cuisine. His 75-seat restaurant, located in the heart of one of San Francisco’s most prominent residential districts, is the culmination of his dream to create one of America’s great restaurants. Each evening the cheese carts at Restaurant Gary Danko offer between sixteen and twenty selections of cheese from around the world and their wine cellar contains over twelve hundred selections from fifteen different countries and vintages spanning three centuries.

6. Harris’ Restaurant

415-673-1888
2100 Van Ness Ave
San Francisco, CA 94109

For nearly a century, the landmark address of 2100 Van Ness Avenue has hosted some of the finest meals on the West Coast. When Harris’ Restaurant opened in 1984, it continued the rich tradition of luxurious dining in a comfortable sophisticated environment. In fact, Harris’ was ranked as one of the nation’s Top 10 Steak houses by the Wine Spectator. Their butcher counter offers aged, Mid-western, corn-fed steak in a variety of cuts including Boneless New York Strip, Ribeye, Harris Steak (bone-in New York), Porterhouse, Filet Mignon and an entire Filet Strip. Large orders of Prime Rib can also be prepared upon request. They also serve Lamb, Chicken and North Atlanta Salmon.

7. Masa’s

415-989-7154
648 Bush St
San Francisco, CA 94108

On Nob Hill in downtown San Francisco near Union Square, at the Executive Hotel Vintage Court, the internationally acclaimed Masa’s restaurant is a destination in itself. Masa’s Restaurant is one of San Francisco’s most beloved and highly esteemed fine dining restaurants. Masa’s provides renowned service and exquisite French cuisine.  Executive Chef Gregory Short develops dishes that combine French techniques with a Californian flair for originality and seasonality. With the tremendous breadth and variety of fresh ingredients, Gregory Short insists on only the best.

8. Top of The Mark

415-616-6916
InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco
999 California St
San Francisco, CA 94108

A place where many come from near and far to rendezvous, celebrate, and enjoy good times. Located on the 19th floor of the InterContinental Mark Hopkins Hotel, the world-renowned sky-bar affords a near 360 degree vista of San Francisco including views of the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Alcatraz. Famed for its 100 Martinis menu, the Top Of The Mark has been rated as one of the 26 “World’s Best Hotel Bars” by Forbes.com two years consecutively. The Top Of The Mark accepts dinner reservations on Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 pm. A three-course prix-fixe dinner is offered and includes an amuse-bouche, choice of starter and entrée, and dessert. Option for wine-pairing is also available. The Top Of The Mark is open for cocktails and dancing throughout the evening, featuring the Black Market Jazz Orchestra from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am.

9. HIME

415-931-7900
2353 Lombard St
San Francisco, CA 94123

HIME was named after a Japanese word meaning “princess”. They offer their guests new Japanese experience through the combination of traditional and fusion cuisines from sushi, sashimi to tapas style dishes in a modern Japanese ambiance. Located near the Golden Gate Bridge HIME is one of the most beautiful Japanese restaurants in the Bay Area.

10. Maharani Restaurant

415-775-1988
1122 Post St
San Francisco, CA 94109

Maharani is a poetic word for “Empress” and for millions of Indians; it signifies the loved one, the sweetheart, or someone close to the heart. The creation and success of this beautiful restaurant is a tribute to women all over the world, who have made our lives richer, more beautiful, wholesome and balanced. Now in our fifteenth year, Maharani continues to signify a tradition in fine dining. We are humbled by the many honors we have received to date, and our goal remains to push the boundaries of authentic Indian cuisine – without compromise. They are committed to bringing you the finest and freshest meals, in a beautiful surrounding, accompanied by personable service.

Top Family Activities in San Francisco

San Francisco has much to offer in regard to family fun.  I can remember countless family vacations growing up where we visited the Bay Area, and each time proved to be a fun and memorable experience.  One of my favorite aspects of the family attractions in San Francisco is that not only are they fun they are also educational.  Below are the top family activities in San Francisco:

1. Alcatraz Island

415-561-4900
Alcatraz Island
San Francisco, CA 94123

2. Circus Center San Francisco

415-759-8123
755 Frederick St
San Francisco, CA 94117

3. Stow Lake Boat & Bike Rentals

415-752-0347
50 Stow Lake Dr
San Francisco, CA 94118

4. Lands End Park

Seal Rock & El Camino Del Mar
San Francisco, CA 94101

5. Exploratorium

415-561-0356
3601 Lyon St
San Francisco, CA 94123

6. Conservatory of Flowers

415-666-7001
Golden Gate Park
Conservatory Rd
San Francisco, CA 94117

7. Bay Area Discovery Museum

415-339-3900
557 McReynolds Rd
Fort Baker
Sausalito, CA 94965

8. San Francisco Zoo

415-753-7080
1 Zoo Rd
San Francisco, CA 94132

9. Adventure Cat Sailing Charter

415-777-1630
Pier 39 Dock J
San Francisco, CA 94114

10. California Academy of Sciences

415-379-8000
Golden Gate Park
55 Music Concourse Dr
San Francisco, CA 94118

Best Gyms and Health Clubs in San Francisco

Year after year, San Francisco consistently gets voted as one of the most fitness conscious cities in the US.  And with that reputation comes a wide variety of athletic clubs.  From luxurious health clubs and spas to rough and tumble boxing gyms, I think you will be able to find an establishment that fits your needs perfectly.  Below are the best gyms and health clubs in San Francisco:

1. The Sports Club / LA

415-633-3900
747 Market St
San Francisco, CA 94103

2. APEXWellness

415-362-8685
632 Commercial St
San Francisco, CA 94111

3. Equinox Fitness Clubs

650-403-7000
4 E 4th Ave
San Mateo, CA 94401

4. Mission Cliffs

415-550-0515
2295 Harrison St
San Francisco, CA 94110

5. Mercury Fitness High Performance Pilates Center

415-567-9009
2904 Laguna St
San Francisco, CA 94123

6. PacWest Athletics — Outdoor Fitness “BootCamp”

415-409-5900
San Francisco Bay Area, CA 94129

7. Synergy Fitness Studio

415-595-7793
3556 Sacramento St
San Francisco, CA 94118

8. Bay Club Bank of America Center

415-362-7800
555 California St
San Francisco, CA 94104

9. Crunch

415-543-1110
61 New Montgomery
San Francisco, CA 94105

10. Millberry Union

500 Parnassus Ave
San Francisco, CA 94143

Best Fashion Boutiques in San Francisco

Looking to find the hottest shopping destinations in San Francisco?  Well look no further than the stylish boutiques that crowd the winding streets of the city.  With apparel for head to toe, San Francisco has made a name for itself in the fashion community with its selection of fine boutique retailers.  Below are the ten best boutiques in San Francisco:

1. Jorja Carmel Inc.

415-674-1131
2015 Chestnut St
San Francisco, CA 94123

2. Doe

415-558-8588
629a Haight St
San Francisco, CA 94117

3. HeidiSays (Collections, Casual, & Shoe Salon)

415-749-0655
2105-2426 Filmore St
San Francisco, CA 94115

4. Annabella’s San Francisco

415-837-0582
1817 Powell St
San Francisco, CA 94133

5. Ambiance

415-552-5095
1458 Haight St
San Francisco, CA 94117

6. Riley James

415-775-7956
3027 Filmore St
San Francisco, CA 94123

7. Acrimony

415-861-1025
515 Gough St
San Francisco, CA 94102

8. My Roomate’s Closet

415-447-7703
3044 Filmore St
San Francisco, CA 94123

9. Residents Apparel Gallery (RAG CO-OP)

415-621-7718
541 Octavia St
San Francisco, CA 94102

10. Candystore Collective

415-863-8143
3153 16th St
San Francisco, CA 94103

Best Sushi Bars in San Francisco

The City of San Francisco may offer both locals and tourists many attractions, however one of my favorite things to do when I’m in town is visit my favorite sushi restaurants.  It doesn’t matter if you are in the mood for freshly caught salmon or an elegantly created roll, the sushi chefs in SF will treat you right.  Below are the ten best sushi bars in San Francisco:

1. Kiss Seafood

415-474-2866
1700 Laguna St
San Francisco, CA 94115

2. Kyo-ya

415-546-5090
The Palace Hotel
2 New Montgomery St
San Francisco, CA 94105

3. Koo

415-731-7077
408 Irving St
San Francisco, CA 94122

4. Umami

415-346-3431
2909 Webster St
San Francisco, CA 94123

5. Okoze Sushi

415-567-3397
1207 Union St
San Francisco, CA 94109

6. Zushi Puzzle

415-931-9319
1910 Lombard St
San Francisco, CA 94123

7. Hama-Ko Sushi

415-753-6808
108 Carl St Ste B
San Francisco, CA 94117

8. Kabuto Sushi

415-752-5652
5121 Geary Blvd
San Francisco, CA 94118

9. Ino Sushi

415-922-3121
22 Peace Plaza Ste 510
San Francisco, CA 94115

10. Toraya Sushi Bar & Grill

415-931-9455
1914 Filmore St
San Francisco, CA 94115

Best Hotels and Resorts in San Francisco

San Francisco has a unique style about itself that is evident by simply walking down the city streets, and this trend is extended to its many hotels and resorts.  In contrast to cities such as New York and Miami which choose to completely rebuild new luxury hotels, San Francisco embraces its old buildings and simply remodels them.  This can be illustrated by the innumerable ’boutique’ accommodations that seem to be on every street corner.  However you have to be cautious, many of these boutique hotels lack the modern amenities of traditional establishments.  Below are the ten best hotels in San Francisco:

1. The W

415-777-5300
181 3rd St
San Francisco, CA 94103

2. The Huntington Hotel

415-474-5400
1075 California St
San Francisco, CA 94108

3. The Serrano Hotel

415-885-2500
405 Taylor St
San Francisco, CA 94102

4. Clift Hotel

415-775-4700
495 Geary St
San Francisco, CA 94102

5. Palace Hotel

415-512-1111
2 New Montgomery St
San Francisco, CA 94105

6. InterContinental Hotel

415-616-6500
888 Howard St
San Francisco, CA 94103

7. Omni San Francisco Hotel

415-677-9494
500 California St
San Francisco, CA 94104

8. Mandarin Oriental

415-276-9888
222 Sansome St
San Francisco, CA 94104

9. St. Regis

415-284-4000
125 3rd St
San Francisco, CA 94103

10. Four Seasons Hotel

415-633-3001
757 Market St
San Francisco, CA 94103

Best Bars in San Francisco

If you’re looking for a fun night out, then look no further than these San Francisco bars.  From modern lounges to fast-paced nightclubs, this city has what you are seeking.  And don’t let the outside fool you, some of the most stylish bars in the city appear to be nothing special from the street.  Below are the ten best bars in San Francisco:

1. St. Regis

415-284-4000
125 3rd St
San Francisco, CA 94103

2. The Four Seasons

415-633-3000
757 Market St
San Francisco, CA 94103

3. Bourbon & Branch

415-346-1735
501 Jones St
San Francisco, CA 94102

4. Maxfield’s Pied Piper Bar

415-512-1111
The Palace Hotel
2 New Montgomery St
San Francisco, CA 94102

5. Swank

415-346-7431
488 Presidio Ave
San Francisco, CA 94115

6. Bar Drake

415-395-8555
Sir Francis Drake Hotel
450 Powell St
San Francisco, CA 94102

7. The Occidental Cigar Club

415-834-0485
471 Pine St
San Francisco, CA 94104

8. Clock Bar

415-397-9222
335 Powell St
San Francisco, CA 94102

9. Bar 888

415-616-6566
InterContinental – Lobby Level
888 Howard St
San Francisco, CA 94103

10. The Bubble Lounge

415-434-4204
714 Montgomery St
San Francisco, CA 94111

Best Apartments and Condos in San Francisco

As with most metropolitan ares, San Francisco has a great selection of apartments and condos throughout the city.  From affordable one-room studios to lavish penthouse mansions, San Francisco has you covered (literally).  And if you like entertaining, many of these homes were designed specially with parties in mind.  Below are the ten best apartments and condos in San Francisco:

1. 2000 Post

415-922-2006
2000 Post St
San Francisco, CA 94115

2. Avalon Towers by the Bay

866-553-9865
388 Beale St
San Francisco, CA 94105

3. The Gateway

415-434-5700
480 Davis Ct
San Francisco, CA 94111

4. Archstone South Market

415-284-3000
One Saint Francis Pl.
San Francisco, CA 94107

5. Avalon at Mission Bay North

866-551-0676
255 King St
San Francisco, CA 94107

6. Strata at Mission Bay

866-721-4573
1201 4th St
San Francisco, CA 94158

7. Edgewater

866-903-2469
355 Berry St
San Francisco, CA 94158

8. Parkmerced

877-243-5544
3711 19th Ave
San Francisco, CA 94132

9. Avalon at Nob Hill

866-715-1197
965 Sutter St
San Francisco, CA 94109

10. Avalon Yerba Buena

866-711-9846
788 Harrison St
San Francisco, CA 94107

Best Wine Bars in San Francisco

The city of San Francisco prides itself in its wine bars, and for very good reason. It seems that I cannot walk two city blocks without passing several of these high class destinations.  Considering that the city is simply a short drive away from the beautiful rolling hills of Napa Valley, it should come as no surprise that SF is flowing with some of the best wine the world has to offer.  Below are the ten best wine bars in San Francisco:

1. Terroir Natural Wine Merchant

415-558-9946
1116 Folsom St
San Francisco, CA 94103

2. Eos Restaurant & Wine Bar

415-566-3063
901 Cole St
San Francisco, CA 94117

3. Bar Tartine

415-487-1600
561 Valencia St
San Francisco, CA 94110

4. Bacar

415-904-4100
448 Brannan St
San Francisco, CA 94107

5. Press Club

415-744-5000
20 Yerba Buena Ln
San Francisco, CA 94103

6. Cav Wine Bar and Kitchen

415-437-1770
1666 Market St
San Francisco, CA 94102

7. Bar Bambino Cafe and Wine Bar

415-701-8466
2931 16th St
San Francisco, CA 94101

8. South Food + Wine Bar

415-974-5599
330 Townsend St Ste 101
San Francisco, CA 94107

9. Bar Norcini

415-397-3621
225 Powell St
San Francisco, CA 94199

10. District

415-896-2120
216 Townsend St
San Francisco, CA 94107

Best Coffee Bars in San Francisco

Ahhh, there is nothing like taking a leisurely stroll down the streets of San Francisco and stopping in at a quaint coffee shop for your java fix.  And SF has a great selection of establishments to fit your craving.  Below are the ten best coffee bars in San Francisco:

1. Graffeo Coffee Roasting Company

415-986-2420
735 Columbus Ave
San Francisco, CA 94133

2. Spike’s Coffees & Teas

415-626-5573
4117 19th St
San Francisco, CA 94114

3. Ritual Gardens

415-694-6458
1634 Jerroid Ave
San Francisco, CA 94110

4. Jackson Place Cafe

415-225-4891
633 Battery St
One Jackson Pl
San Francisco, CA 94111

5. Trouble Coffee Company

4033 Judah St
San Francisco, CA 94122

6. Bernie’s

415-642-1192
3966 24th St
San Francisco, CA 94114

7. Coffee Adventures

415-441-0301
1331 Columbus Ave
San Francisco, CA 94133

8. L’s Caffe

415-206-0274
2871 24th St
San Francisco, CA 94110

9. Cento

360 Ritch St
San Francisco, CA 94107

10. Cafe Venice

415-643-3385
3325 24th  St
San Francisco, CA 94110