When you think of Northern California, Napa is probably the first thing that pops into your head. Visions of the greenest rolling hills with plots of your favorite grapes growing in the valleys instantly captivate your thoughts. But beyond the pine and vine, there is beauty, romance, and the freshest food your tongue has ever tasted awaiting you with open arms. I offer you a weekend tour that loops you through San Francisco, the wine country and the pristine coast. Just as Tony Bennett sings, you’ll leave your heart, or at least a piece of it, here.
To explore this culturally rich and heavenly gastronomic region, you’ll need four days, a decent budget, and a person you love to talk to. No heels or suits required—this is a casual getaway.
Friday: Sites in the City
Your journey begins in the city by the bay. Touring the countryside will involve driving, so you’ll need to rent a car upon arrival. If the weather is nice, I recommend a cute convertible or Jeep Wrangler so your hair can fly in the wind when you hightail it out of town tomorrow. Every hotel chain has a San Francisco location, but the St. Regis in Soma/downtown offers modern décor, floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the city, a spacious bathtub, and a popular bar, which is all you’ll need for your one night. Other recommended downtown hotels are the W San Francisco (Starwoodhotels.com) and the InterContinental (Intercontinentalsanfrancisco.com).
The culture in the city is richer than marscarpone—you could spend years getting to know the intricacies. In one day, you’ll have time only to skim the surface, so hop in your car (even better, hire a driver) to explore the distinct neighborhoods. Plot a route because one-way streets run rampant among the steep hills.
But first things first: Lunch. If you’re starving, walk to Salt (Salthousesf.com) to introduce your palette to what fresh-from-the-farm food actually tastes like.
Otherwise, grab a bite in one of the neighborhoods you visit. Pane e Vino is in the Marina area where the trendy, young yuppies live and shop. Wolfgang Puck’s Postrio is upscale and close to the “Rodeo Drive” on Maiden Lane in Union Square. In Haight-Ashbury, you’ll get to see where all the cool kids hang out, such as Magnolia Pub (Magnoliapub.com). From there, take a stroll through Golden Gate Park.
Eventually make your way up to Twin Peaks, where you can see the expanse that is San Francisco. Take a breath—this view is priceless (as in the picture above).
Finally, your day ends in the Mission District. You have two casual options that both serve delectable California cuisine and require a reservation: a patio table at Foreign Cinema (foreigncinema.com) that projects a silent movie while you dine, or any table you can get at Range (Rangesf.com), home to chefs Phil and Cameron West, who just might win the next James Beard Award for their menu.
Saturday and Sunday: Pour the Wine, Please
Rise and shine—early! You’re not meant to start this day without coffee. Don’t settle for Peet’s; go to the Ferry building, home to a true farmers market as well as fine boutique eateries such as Blue Bottle Coffee (Ferrybuildingmarketplace.com), which serves up cappuccinos like you’d find in New York. Once the perfectly frothed milk hits your lips, you’ll be ready to head to the hills for wine. Pack yourself up in the car and take the Golden Gate Bridge north past Alcatraz, Sausalito, and Marin County, where some of the wealthiest people in the world seclude themselves. Taking the 101 to the CA-12 takes a little longer, but the scenery is worth the extra thirty minutes.
Settling in for the weekend, I recommend a casita at the Solage (Solagecalistoga.com) for peace and quiet accompanied with a trendy pool, sensual spa, and Michelin Star restaurant. If you want to up your game, head to its sister property, the Auberge du Soleil (Aubergedusoleil.com). Even if you don’t stay here, one night you must savor the Michelin menu and breathtaking view. Other recommended accommodations include the Meadowood (Meadowood.com) and the Calistoga Inn (Calistogainn.com).
