Last minute trip to San Francisco, don't mind if I do!

Lathum · 09-01-2011, 09:54 AM

Wife and I decided to leave our son with Grandparents this weekend and take a short trip to San Fran. We are going to do an all day wine country tour Saturday then probably go to the Giants game Sunday. A few questions.

We are staying in Union Square, any good restaurant recommendations? We aren't looking to go super romantic, maybe upscale casual?

Any good bars near the stadium we could grab a beer at before the game?

We aren't going to try to cram in to much, so Alcatraz, etc.. is out. My wife would like to go to some form of outdoor market Sunday morning, any suggestions?

Also, we are likely going to take a cab from the airport, any idea how much that may be? There is a shuttle, but I am not a fan because you can wait forever while it makes other stops.

Thanks in advance!

Ksyrup · 09-01-2011, 10:17 AM

Stop by and say hello to my aunt:

PK Sonoma Homepage - Creative Designs for Living

Not only can she hook your wife up with some lavender products, but based on all the times I visited her, she can probably hook you up with other herbs as well...

AnalBumCover · 09-01-2011, 10:24 AM

If I remember, a cab ride from SFO to around Union Square cost me about $40. You can also consider BART.

cartman · 09-01-2011, 10:28 AM

There are tons of outdoor markets in Chinatown. A cab from the airport will likely be in the $40 range. BART isn't a bad option. I think it is 3 or 4 stops from the SFO station to Union Square. It has been a while since I was back there, but I remember a great Italian place between Union Square and Embarcadero. In any event, there are tons of places to eat in the area, your hotel concierge can point you to a number of spots.

edit: Oops, left the window open before posting. ABC covered the transportation options.

JediKooter · 09-01-2011, 10:35 AM

Expensive, but, one hell of a view (well, when there's no fog) is Top of the Mark. I recommend reservations or you probably won't get seated. They have an awesome brunch buffet, but, it is pricey.

If you want a good breakfast Saturday morning on your way to the wine country, stop in my neighborhood (Sausalito) and go to Fred's Cafe on Bridgeway. If you like french toast and you aren't worried about counting calories, I highly, highly recommend the deep fried french toast. If you go, ask for Tien (sounds like tee-in)and tell him Brian sent you. Not sure if you will be able to get seated right away, but, he's the best server there. As a matter of fact, I can even meet you guys there if it's early enough. However, if you want a romantic weekend with just the two of you, I totally understand.

digamma · 09-01-2011, 11:38 AM

21st Amendment is within walking distance of the stadium.

There are also a couple of bars immediately around the stadium.

Mizzou B-ball fan · 09-01-2011, 11:46 AM

We enjoyed walking around Fisherman's Market while in town if you're looking for an outdoor option. Also, the Cliff House has a fantastic champagne buffet on Sundays. Great view of the ocean and surfers. We hit it every time we go out there.

Lathum · 09-01-2011, 11:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JediKooter

Expensive, but, one hell of a view (well, when there's no fog) is Top of the Mark. I recommend reservations or you probably won't get seated. They have an awesome brunch buffet, but, it is pricey.

If you want a good breakfast Saturday morning on your way to the wine country, stop in my neighborhood (Sausalito) and go to Fred's Cafe on Bridgeway. If you like french toast and you aren't worried about counting calories, I highly, highly recommend the deep fried french toast. If you go, ask for Tien (sounds like tee-in)and tell him Brian sent you. Not sure if you will be able to get seated right away, but, he's the best server there. As a matter of fact, I can even meet you guys there if it's early enough. However, if you want a romantic weekend with just the two of you, I totally understand.

haha, thanks for the info and the offer. We are taking a shuttle trip to wine country that leaves at 8:15 from the Ferry Wharf so we will likely do room service.

Lathum · 09-01-2011, 11:48 AM

dola- thanks for all the feedback, FOFC delivers yet again!

JediKooter · 09-01-2011, 11:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lathum

haha, thanks for the info and the offer. We are taking a shuttle trip to wine country that leaves at 8:15 from the Ferry Wharf so we will likely do room service.

You're welcome. Well dang. Wave at me as the shuttle bus passes Sausalito.

sterlingice · 09-01-2011, 07:22 PM

Man, San Francisco is a city I'd want to take my time in, if at all possible. The evening program at Alcatraz was one of best National Park experiences I've had as they had a lot of historical programs you could do after the audio tour and an absolutely gorgeous nighttime view of the city. Muir Woods was my favorite experience of anywhere I visited- we hiked around there for about 4 hours, tho it's about 30 minutes north of San Francisco across the Golden Gate bridge. We did one of those one day bus tours around town which was neat because of all the different neighborhoods. I liked seeing the seals off of Pier 39, eating dessert (twice) and doing lots of Christmas shopping at Ghirardelli Square, climbing up to the Coit tower to get a good view of the city, doing a little shopping and eating in Chinatown, and walking along The Embarcadero, getting a great view before getting into some amazing sourdough.

It might have been my favorite city to visit (well, probably 2nd, as it's hard to top DC for raw amount and variety of things to do) and I felt we shortchanged ourselves with only 4 days in San Fran and a day down in Monterrey.

SI

DaddyTorgo · 09-01-2011, 11:36 PM

Kuleto's is the Italian Place between Union Square and Embarcadero (I'm assuming). Just went there the other night (Tues?). It was good, but nothing mind-blowing, particularly probably for a Jersey guy like you.

Top of the Mark is amazing as far as the views go. Just sit at the bar and get a drink - no need to order food.

Man, we're like totally crossing paths this week Lathum - have fun in SF!!

Go to Stacks (501 Hayes Street) for breakfast. It's an institution.

Whereabouts in Union Square area are you staying? I just stayed there earlier this week - be amusing if you're staying somewhere I have stayed in the past.

cartman · 09-01-2011, 11:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DaddyTorgo

Kuleto's is the Italian Place between Union Square and Embarcadero (I'm assuming). Just went there the other night (Tues?). It was good, but nothing mind-blowing, particularly probably for a Jersey guy like you.

Just remembered the name of the place. Not Kuleto's, but Palomino. It is closer to the Bay Bridge. But after I looked them up, they have a few of them across the US, including Seattle. So not a good reason to visit, when there are tons of other local places to checkout.

dawgfan · 09-01-2011, 11:52 PM

When I was down there early this year for GDC I was directed to a place called "Foreign Cinema" which is on Mission St. a short cab ride north of where you're staying. Very good food with a rotating menu and a nice outdoor atrium in the back where they show movies on the wall.

Tends to get booked up, so if you want to go, I'd suggest calling early for reservations. On the higher end price-wise but not outrageously so, casual attire is fine. Highly recommended - I hit it up twice in the 3 nights I was there.

Edward64 · 09-01-2011, 11:54 PM

FWIW, I've been back to SF a couple time for conferences and have walked from Union Square to Fisherman's Wharf and back (follow the cable car tracks).

Lots of hills but something you and wife may enjoy, taking time to walk together and take pictures. Not really alot of stores on the way (except for China town) and wear sneakers.

Lathum · 09-01-2011, 11:56 PM

What is the dress like at Top of the Mark? We are going pretty casual, jeans and polos are about the extent. The place looks great, I just don't want to be inappropriate.

DaddyTorgo · 09-02-2011, 12:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lathum

What is the dress like at Top of the Mark? We are going pretty casual, jeans and polos are about the extent. The place looks great, I just don't want to be inappropriate.

More dressy after 6PM or 8PM (depending on who you believe), but before that you should be fine with jeans and polos, especially if you just want to sit in the bar. I wouldn't go in there in sweaty tshirts and flip flops or anything though.

Schmidty · 09-02-2011, 12:24 AM

I hate San Fran so much. It's not really fair since I've only been there once, but I just can't help it. Worst traffic ever, getting lost downtown at night, rude, self-important people, did I mention traffic? I actually felt way more comfortable and happy while shopping at a Walmart in Oakland.

I know that I should give it another chance, but I just can't. It scarred me too much.

Izulde · 09-02-2011, 12:40 AM

With the exception of Santa Cruz, I'm not fond of NorCal or the Bay Area myself, though I see why a lot of people do enjoy it.

Schmidty · 09-02-2011, 12:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Izulde

With the exception of Santa Cruz, I'm not fond of NorCal or the Bay Area myself, though I see why a lot of people do enjoy it.

My wife approves - She was born and raised in Santa Cruz (Scotts Valley).

Rizon · 09-02-2011, 08:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Schmidty

I hate San Fran so much. It's not really fair since I've only been there once, but I just can't help it. Worst traffic ever, getting lost downtown at night, rude, self-important people, did I mention traffic? I actually felt way more comfortable and happy while shopping at a Walmart in Oakland.

I know that I should give it another chance, but I just can't. It scarred me too much.

This.

Mizzou B-ball fan · 09-02-2011, 08:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Schmidty

I hate San Fran so much. It's not really fair since I've only been there once, but I just can't help it. Worst traffic ever, getting lost downtown at night, rude, self-important people, did I mention traffic? I actually felt way more comfortable and happy while shopping at a Walmart in Oakland.

I know that I should give it another chance, but I just can't. It scarred me too much.

The best part of San Francisco is that wine country is only an hour or so away.

Rizon · 09-02-2011, 10:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mizzou B-ball fan

The best part of San Francisco is that wine country is only an hour or so away.

I say hit the Healdsburg area and avoid the Napa area.

Lathum · 09-02-2011, 10:21 AM

Thanks for the recs. I think we may try the Top of the Mark tomorrow night after we rest up following the wine country tour. The bar Digamma linked looks pretty cool as well, will likely head there before the game if there is time.

JediKooter · 09-02-2011, 10:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lathum

What is the dress like at Top of the Mark? We are going pretty casual, jeans and polos are about the extent. The place looks great, I just don't want to be inappropriate.

When I went, I wore jeans and a short sleeve button up shirt. Dress fancy if you want, dress casual if you want.

JediKooter · 09-02-2011, 10:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Schmidty

I hate San Fran so much. It's not really fair since I've only been there once, but I just can't help it. Worst traffic ever, getting lost downtown at night, rude, self-important people, did I mention traffic? I actually felt way more comfortable and happy while shopping at a Walmart in Oakland.

I know that I should give it another chance, but I just can't. It scarred me too much.

Yup, pretty much nailed it on your one visit. You're the lucky one though, you got to leave.

AENeuman · 09-02-2011, 01:49 PM

Wow sf weekend, brother Bucc is in town too...

If you are going to nob hill (top of the mark) you MUST stop by the Tonga Room across the street at the Fairmont. especially if you like awesome filipino cover bands, tropical drinks, this is the place.

21st amendment is great beer and not bad food. if you are looking for a cheap but good place before the game try Red's little beer patio and hamburger spot out on a pier near the ball park.

the main farmers market is at the ferry building, but it's on saturday. however, it is still a great place to go. lots of fresh, local eateries. really good Vietnamese fusion place with great cocktails, great cheese and ,eat stands, an awesome oyster bar and best coffee in the city (blue bottle)

have fun

AENeuman · 09-02-2011, 01:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Schmidty

I actually felt way more comfortable and happy while shopping at a Walmart in Oakland.

wow.

09-01-2011, 10:17 AM	#2
Ksyrup This guy has posted so much, his fingers are about to fall off. Join Date: Nov 2000 Location: In Absentia	Stop by and say hello to my aunt: PK Sonoma Homepage - Creative Designs for Living Not only can she hook your wife up with some lavender products, but based on all the times I visited her, she can probably hook you up with other herbs as well... __________________ M's pitcher Miguel Batista: "Now, I feel like I've had everything. I've talked pitching with Sandy Koufax, had Kenny G play for me. Maybe if I could have an interview with God, then I'd be served. I'd be complete."

09-01-2011, 10:24 AM	#3
AnalBumCover College Starter Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: La Mirada, CA	If I remember, a cab ride from SFO to around Union Square cost me about $40. You can also consider BART. __________________ ABC's Game Giveaway list

09-01-2011, 10:28 AM	#4
cartman Death Herald Join Date: Nov 2000 Location: Le stelle la notte sono grandi e luminose nel cuore profondo del Texas	There are tons of outdoor markets in Chinatown. A cab from the airport will likely be in the $40 range. BART isn't a bad option. I think it is 3 or 4 stops from the SFO station to Union Square. It has been a while since I was back there, but I remember a great Italian place between Union Square and Embarcadero. In any event, there are tons of places to eat in the area, your hotel concierge can point you to a number of spots. edit: Oops, left the window open before posting. ABC covered the transportation options. __________________ Thinkin' of a master plan 'Cuz ain't nuthin' but sweat inside my hand So I dig into my pocket, all my money is spent So I dig deeper but still comin' up with lint Last edited by cartman : 09-01-2011 at 10:30 AM.

09-01-2011, 10:35 AM	#5
JediKooter Coordinator Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: San Diego via Sausalito via San Jose via San Diego	Expensive, but, one hell of a view (well, when there's no fog) is Top of the Mark. I recommend reservations or you probably won't get seated. They have an awesome brunch buffet, but, it is pricey. If you want a good breakfast Saturday morning on your way to the wine country, stop in my neighborhood (Sausalito) and go to Fred's Cafe on Bridgeway. If you like french toast and you aren't worried about counting calories, I highly, highly recommend the deep fried french toast. If you go, ask for Tien (sounds like tee-in)and tell him Brian sent you. Not sure if you will be able to get seated right away, but, he's the best server there. As a matter of fact, I can even meet you guys there if it's early enough. However, if you want a romantic weekend with just the two of you, I totally understand. __________________ I'm no longer a Chargers fan, they are dead to me Coming this summer to a movie theater near you: The Adventures of Jedikooter: Part 4

09-01-2011, 07:22 PM	#11
sterlingice Hall Of Famer Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: Back in Houston!	Man, San Francisco is a city I'd want to take my time in, if at all possible. The evening program at Alcatraz was one of best National Park experiences I've had as they had a lot of historical programs you could do after the audio tour and an absolutely gorgeous nighttime view of the city. Muir Woods was my favorite experience of anywhere I visited- we hiked around there for about 4 hours, tho it's about 30 minutes north of San Francisco across the Golden Gate bridge. We did one of those one day bus tours around town which was neat because of all the different neighborhoods. I liked seeing the seals off of Pier 39, eating dessert (twice) and doing lots of Christmas shopping at Ghirardelli Square, climbing up to the Coit tower to get a good view of the city, doing a little shopping and eating in Chinatown, and walking along The Embarcadero, getting a great view before getting into some amazing sourdough. It might have been my favorite city to visit (well, probably 2nd, as it's hard to top DC for raw amount and variety of things to do) and I felt we shortchanged ourselves with only 4 days in San Fran and a day down in Monterrey. SI __________________ Houston Hippopotami, III.3: 20th Anniversary Thread - All former HT players are encouraged to check it out! Janos: "Only America could produce an imbecile of your caliber!" Freakazoid: "That's because we make lots of things better than other people!" Last edited by sterlingice : 09-01-2011 at 07:24 PM.

09-01-2011, 11:38 AM	#6
digamma Torchbearer Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: On Lake Harriet	21st Amendment is within walking distance of the stadium. There are also a couple of bars immediately around the stadium.

09-01-2011, 11:46 AM	#7
Mizzou B-ball fan General Manager Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: Kansas City, MO	We enjoyed walking around Fisherman's Market while in town if you're looking for an outdoor option. Also, the Cliff House has a fantastic champagne buffet on Sundays. Great view of the ocean and surfers. We hit it every time we go out there.

09-01-2011, 11:48 AM	#9
Lathum Favored Bitch #1 Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: homeless in NJ	dola- thanks for all the feedback, FOFC delivers yet again!

09-01-2011, 11:36 PM	#12
DaddyTorgo Hall Of Famer Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Massachusetts	Kuleto's is the Italian Place between Union Square and Embarcadero (I'm assuming). Just went there the other night (Tues?). It was good, but nothing mind-blowing, particularly probably for a Jersey guy like you. Top of the Mark is amazing as far as the views go. Just sit at the bar and get a drink - no need to order food. Man, we're like totally crossing paths this week Lathum - have fun in SF!! Go to Stacks (501 Hayes Street) for breakfast. It's an institution. Whereabouts in Union Square area are you staying? I just stayed there earlier this week - be amusing if you're staying somewhere I have stayed in the past. Last edited by DaddyTorgo : 09-01-2011 at 11:39 PM.

09-01-2011, 11:52 PM	#14
dawgfan Grizzled Veteran Join Date: Oct 2000 Location: Seattle	When I was down there early this year for GDC I was directed to a place called "Foreign Cinema" which is on Mission St. a short cab ride north of where you're staying. Very good food with a rotating menu and a nice outdoor atrium in the back where they show movies on the wall. Tends to get booked up, so if you want to go, I'd suggest calling early for reservations. On the higher end price-wise but not outrageously so, casual attire is fine. Highly recommended - I hit it up twice in the 3 nights I was there.

09-01-2011, 11:54 PM	#15
Edward64 Head Coach Join Date: Oct 2005	FWIW, I've been back to SF a couple time for conferences and have walked from Union Square to Fisherman's Wharf and back (follow the cable car tracks). Lots of hills but something you and wife may enjoy, taking time to walk together and take pictures. Not really alot of stores on the way (except for China town) and wear sneakers.

09-01-2011, 11:56 PM	#16
Lathum Favored Bitch #1 Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: homeless in NJ	What is the dress like at Top of the Mark? We are going pretty casual, jeans and polos are about the extent. The place looks great, I just don't want to be inappropriate.

09-02-2011, 12:24 AM	#18
Schmidty Coordinator Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: Early, TX	I hate San Fran so much. It's not really fair since I've only been there once, but I just can't help it. Worst traffic ever, getting lost downtown at night, rude, self-important people, did I mention traffic? I actually felt way more comfortable and happy while shopping at a Walmart in Oakland. I know that I should give it another chance, but I just can't. It scarred me too much. __________________ Just beat the devil out of it!!! - Bob Ross

09-02-2011, 12:40 AM	#19
Izulde Head Coach Join Date: Sep 2004	With the exception of Santa Cruz, I'm not fond of NorCal or the Bay Area myself, though I see why a lot of people do enjoy it. __________________ 2006 Golden Scribe Nominee 2006 Golden Scribe Winner Best Non-Sport Dynasty: May Our Reign Be Green and Golden (CK Dynasty) Rookie Writer of the Year Dynasty of the Year: May Our Reign Be Green and Golden (CK Dynasty)

09-02-2011, 10:21 AM	#24
Lathum Favored Bitch #1 Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: homeless in NJ	Thanks for the recs. I think we may try the Top of the Mark tomorrow night after we rest up following the wine country tour. The bar Digamma linked looks pretty cool as well, will likely head there before the game if there is time.

09-02-2011, 01:49 PM	#27
AENeuman College Benchwarmer Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: SF	Wow sf weekend, brother Bucc is in town too... If you are going to nob hill (top of the mark) you MUST stop by the Tonga Room across the street at the Fairmont. especially if you like awesome filipino cover bands, tropical drinks, this is the place. 21st amendment is great beer and not bad food. if you are looking for a cheap but good place before the game try Red's little beer patio and hamburger spot out on a pier near the ball park. the main farmers market is at the ferry building, but it's on saturday. however, it is still a great place to go. lots of fresh, local eateries. really good Vietnamese fusion place with great cocktails, great cheese and ,eat stands, an awesome oyster bar and best coffee in the city (blue bottle) have fun Last edited by AENeuman : 09-02-2011 at 01:50 PM.

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