When they say, “I left my heart in San Francisco”, they weren’t kidding. Any chance I can get to visit one of my favorite cities, especially to eat, I’m there. One of the best parts about this amazing city? It’s a (relatively) quick trip from home – either an hour flight, or a half day drive up the coast.
Earlier this Fall, my hubby and I did a 2 day, 1 night getaway up north. We had a birthday celebration for a dear friend in Tiburon (a quaint and beautiful town just north of the Golden Gate Bridge) so we decided to make a weekend out of it. There are many great options to stay in the Mill Valley/Tiburon area… From the Lodge At Tiburon, Waters Edge Hotel or the Acqua Hotel. We checked into the Acqua Hotel and it was absolutely perfect! Our King Size bedroom had a beautiful view of Richardson Bay and included amazing eco-friendly amenities. Don’t miss the afternoon wine and cheese gathering in the lobby, and a full breakfast buffet every morning (you guys know I’m a huge fan of breakfast buffets at this point, right??). With free mountain bike rentals, we were able to explore the lovely and serene scenery.
The next day we met some friends and headed into SF to grub. Although my favorite Italian seafood restaurant, Sotto Mare, was closed this time, it’s a definite must in Little Italy. I had my first oysters here and they were incredible (I basically owe them my love for oysters!). Reservations are necessary, and if you love to watch the action in the kitchen, request the bar seats facing them.
You can’t visit San Fran without indulging in Tony’s Pizza. The lines are always long, but always absolutely worth it. We indulged on the most delicious pepperoni ever, with the thinnest slices of crisp pepperoni that are absolutely to die for.
After a slice or two of Tony’s, we were ready for a quick dinner before flying back to Los Angeles. Just around the corner from Tony’s, we went to Trattoria Contadina in North Beach (clearly, we were feeling Italian on this trip!). To start, we ordered my favorite Castelvetrano Olives, with citrus, rosemary and fennel pollen. Then we had meatballs in tomato sauce – YUM. For entrees, I got the Il Diavolo: penne with ‘nduja, pancetta, onions, basil and burrata in a spicy tomato sauce. Hubby got the Vongole, which is their infamous linguini and clams! Everything was delicious here and the service was awesome. You really feel like you’re eating at your Nonna’s house.
Another Little Italy favorite of mine is Mama’s on Washington Square for their world-famous breakfast. If you’re craving some out-of-this-world pastries or sweets, you have to check out Tartine Bakery near the Mission. The tarts (obviously) are amazing, and their lunch menu is yummy too!
We said our goodbyes to our friends, took a walk to Fisherman’s Village, and headed back to the airport.
San Francisco is the perfect weekend getaway, anytime of year!
-Naz