Visiting San Francisco and Napa (Sonoma, Yountville: 2014, professionals, restaurants)

[andyj13]

Hi all,

I’ll be visiting Napa and Sonoma for a day and a half and San Francisco for 3 nights and 4 days.

For Napa any winery recommendations and a dinner spot in either Napa or Sonoma?

Any recommendations for food and things that are must see in San Francisco are appreciated. We are staying in union square.

[CorporateCowboy]

Originally Posted by andyj13

Hi all,

I’ll be visiting Napa and Sonoma for a day and a half and San Francisco for 3 nights and 4 days.

For Napa any winery recommendations and a dinner spot in either Napa or Sonoma?

Any recommendations for food and things that are must see in San Francisco are appreciated. We are staying in union square.

You asked almost the same question in a 2014 thread. How was your trip? What did you see in SF last time - and what are you looking to do differently (or add) this time around, so we may help you in a more specific way?

[andyj13]

In Napa not much. So wide open to different winery suggestions. San Fran about all of the touristy things so looking for some cool options that regular citizens would do? Plus as it’s been 6 years I imagine popular resteraunts and bars have changed.

[CorporateCowboy]

Originally Posted by andyj13

In Napa not much. So wide open to different winery suggestions. San Fran about all of the touristy things so looking for some cool options that regular citizens would do? Plus as it’s been 6 years I imagine popular resteraunts and bars have changed.

Since you asked specifically about restaurants and wineries both times, I'd recommend Tadich Grill - a definite favorite among locals. Other popular choices are Cala (try the trout tostadas) and Nopa. For a drink or a more upscale snack - The Treasury, a popular (and rather small) gathering place for locals/professionals in the Financial District. That said, if I had limited time in the Bay Area, my focus wouldn't be on food/bars for locals as much as it would be on outdoor activity.

I'd recommend Sonoma Valley (more 'rustic' and laid-back) over Napa; a winery such as Viansa where you can 'kill several birds with one stone' is a good option. Dramatic views via private hilltop cabanas (have to call to reserve), plenty of area to walk and explore, and a wood-fired pizza oven for a pairing with a pinot or whatever you like (or pick up some food at the marketplace for a picnic). That said, a long list of choice wines and spirits are available all over SF and the Bay Area (such as The Treasury and Novela); so if I'm driving to a winery, it's usually more about the excursion and an 'escape' from the City than the wine, in and of itself (and I actually prefer scotch, lol). Make sure you call any wineries in advance; operating hours and tours may change or there may be a private event. You'll get better attention/service by doing so - especially if it's limited.

[andyj13]

Thank you.

[Chava61]

In San Francisco, I always suggest visiting the Cable Car Museum which is located in Chinatown (not far from Union Square).

San Francisco Cable Car Museum

[reprotast]

For restaurants, drive past Napa and go to Yountville. Thomas Keller has 4 fantastic restaurants there:

French Laundry (you'll never get in - books months in advance)
Bouchon
Ad Hoc/Addendum
Calenda (best tamales on Earth)

It's also a nice, walkable small town.

[andyj13]

Thanks for the tips.

[llowllevellowll]

San Francisco: Club Waziema for really good Ethiopian in a bizarre location with the best wallpaper you'll ever see.