There is always something exciting and intriguing going on in
San Francisco. We live so close that at times we forget what an
enchanting place this metropolis can be. San Francisco is like a
great sophisticated mosaic, made up of many pieces of different
sparkling entities that blend to create one of the most exciting
and beautiful cities in the world. I bring you my update of a few
of many very special experiences that should be considered, (if you
haven’t already) when visiting our enticing neighbor.
There is always something exciting and intriguing going on in San Francisco. We live so close that at times we forget what an enchanting place this metropolis can be. San Francisco is like a great sophisticated mosaic, made up of many pieces of different sparkling entities that blend to create one of the most exciting and beautiful cities in the world. I bring you my update of a few of many very special experiences that should be considered, (if you haven’t already) when visiting our enticing neighbor.
The jewel in the crown
We start with the main jewel in the crown of this amazing city, the de Young Museum. Founded in 1895 the de Young Museum has always been a strong thread in the cultural fabric of the city. With a major renovation, the state-of-the-art facility combines art, architecture and the natural landscape in one multi-faceted destination.
The new de Young offers a priceless collection of more than 25,000 works. The de Young is currently featuring “Nan Kemper: American Chic,” a dazzling offering of the style and fashion of Nan Kemper-noted fashion icon, couture connoisseur. This exhibition runs until Nov. 11, 2007.
An entrance ticket to the de Young will extend entrance into the inspiring Legion of Honor with its treasured classics featuring 4,000 years of ancient and European art – works by El Greco, Rubins, Rembrant, Seurat, Monet, Degas and Picasso and sculpture by Rodin.
How about a short romantic cruise?
Just a hop, skip and jump from Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf the stunning fleet of the Pacific Marine Yachts can be found. These elegant yachts accommodate corporate entertaining, special events, weddings and simple family outings in grand style.
A Champaign brunch is featured on Sundays. Board the Pacific Marine Yachts beautiful 150-foot flagship the “San Francisco Spirit” at 11 am. Enjoy a cruise around the bay while nonstop Champaign is poured and a wonderful brunch is served.
For reservations and information call: (415) 788-9100
Free, fine concerts – believe it!
Sigmund Stern Grove is a beautiful 33-acre park with a natural amphitheater, picnic areas, meadows, a lake and hiking trails and is located at 19th Avenue and Sloat Boulevard. This is truly San Francisco’s best kept secret to visitors. All the first rate concerts are free! Everything from the San Francisco Symphony, Opera and Ballet with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, partially round out some of the programs offered this season. Bring a picnic lunch and blanket, (for sitting), come early, shows start at 2pm (get there around noon to get a good spot).
For information and the season’s schedule call (415) 252-6252. Web site: www.sterngrove.org
An intimate, reasonable restaurant
Looking for an intimate, romantic spot with a Parisian flair that serves superb French comfort food and not break the bank?
Hop over to the Russian Hill area, (you can even take a cable car, they pass by the restaurant on a regular schedule.) Here you will find the Hyde Street Bistro a charming, little restaurant (seats 49), in an unlikely residential area.
The amiable staff will immediately make you feel like you have just arrived home, hungry and ready for a good meal. And that is exactly what you get.
A complimentary delicious goat cheese appetizer materializes right after being seated, menus and suggestions are offered and the patron is off to a gastronomic ecstasy.
The Hyde Street Bistro is at 1521 Hyde Street in the Russian Hill area San Francisco. Reservations are recommended (415) 292-4415
Refresh with
afternoon tea
The famous Nob Hill Restaurant at The Mark Hopkins is where delightful afternoon tea is served Monday through Friday 10:30 am to 2:30pm Delicate sandwiches, with Devonshire Cream and jam compliment scones and crumpets with delicate pastries that follow.
A most agreeable experience for around twenty-four dollars per person. Call 415/392-3434 for reservations for afternoon tea at the Mark Hopkins at 999 California Street in San Francisco.
