SIRACHA2GO

Beyonce and Hillary Clinton aren’t the only people who carry hot sauce in their bags (swag). The mini, refillable and portable container for siracha hot sauce is carried at Urban Outfitters, Bed Bath & Beyond, Amazon and on the belt loops of San Franciscans.

STREET FOOD

The popularity (and convenience) of street food has inspired gourmet chef interpretations that now range from dim sum, Vietnamese fusion, carnival fare and shawarma. San Francisco has weekly food truck gatherings, like Off-the-Grid, that attract hundreds of visitors to the variety of foods offered, as well as the fast-casual nature in which they are served.

INSTAGRAM-WORTHY DISHES

Foodies snapping shots of their “Instagram-worthy” dishes didn’t start in 2018, but restaurants creating menu items based on visual creativity and desire for social media attention is a recent phenomenon. In fact, Starbuck’s created a unicorn drink specifically for social media fanfare.

Creating visual experiences for the purpose of capturing free social media attention and buzz is all the rage with SF restaurants and food purveyors (see the Museum of Ice Cream) – especially when they emphasize color.

GUT-HEALTHY FARE

With diet trends emphasizing healthy-eating, it’s not surprising that gut-healthy foods have made their home in the SF food scene. Recipes that incorporate kimchi, apple cider vinegar, tempeh and miso are seeing a considerable spike in popularity at local restaurants.

Local Picks: bone broth from Belcampo Meat Company and the tempeh chorizo bowl from Gracias Madre.

ANCIENT GRAINS

Apparently, Quinoa is no longer the “it girl” of the grain world. SF-based chefs have been exploring a variety of old-world grains to spice up their menus. From farro to kamut, spelt to bulgur, chef-enthusiasts are reinventing ways to incorporate these healthy ingredients.

Local Pick: the lunchtime ancient grain bowl from Eatsa. Short on time? You can place your order from your phone and pick it up from a local kiosk.

GHEE 

Gone are the days where diet-goers and health-fanatics fear fat. Fat is back in a big way and ghee is the staple cooking oil for a new generation of San Franciscans. Ghee is similar to clarified butter, but is simmered longer for enhanced flavor, has a higher smoke point and lacks casein. It’s also loaded with nutrients, including CLA, vitamin E and butyric acid.

Local Picks: Lotus SF Indian cuisine uses organic ghee in their cooking and Rainbow Grocery cooperative has a plethora of ghee options to take home.

AIR FRYING

Using up to 75% less fat than a standard fryer, the air fryer made waves with food-fanatics and health-conscious residents alike by allowing people to enjoy fried foods in a healthier way. Local die-hard fans recommend buying your own and experimenting, while the cooking-challenged head to San Tung’s for their famous dry-fried chicken wings.

HOUSE-MADE CONDIMENTS

Unique, house-made condiments are popping up in SF restaurants as a way to add authentic flare and variety, while avoiding unwanted ingredients and sugars included in traditional bottled condiments.

Local Picks: Hot Sauce and Panko for out-of-this-world spice and 4505 Meats for special BBQ sauce and non-traditional condiments.

KETO DIET

Knocking the Paleo Diet out of first place – with similar restrictions – the Keto Diet has influenced San Francisco’s food scene more than any other diet trend within the last few years. The Keto Diet’s high-protein, high-fat, low-carb way of eating has people searching for local lunch hotspots for a quick, satisfying fix.

Local Picks: RT Rotisserie for simple and savory chicken with a side of cauliflower or MEALPRO for customized home-delivery meals.

CAULIFLOWER-CARB SUBSTITUTES

Dubbed the new “kale replacement,” the versatility of cauliflower makes it an easy carb stand-in. From riced to oven-baked, spiced to creamed, there are a number of options for picky eaters to choose from, including pizza crusts and gnocchi. Variations have sprouted up in restaurants and supermarkets all over the Bay Area.

Local Picks: Locals shop Trader Joe’s for their riced cauliflower or Pizzeria Delfina for their spicy cauliflower dish.

POP-UPS

Limited edition restaurants, temporary locations, limited menus and intimate experiences with top chefs have taken over the SF food scene. Whether eating a meal completely in the dark, a supper club in a secret location or a dinner made entirely of food waste (yes, you read that right), pop-ups are still going strong- and are more creative than ever.

Local Picks: Ultra fancy Sorrel or Friends with Benedicts for a lazy Sunday brunch.

CANNED WINE

Following its cousin – the craft beer – canned wines are all the rage with San Francisco millennials. They’re convenient, easily transportable and taste just as good as the bottled variety (so they claim). Wine brands have embraced the fun by creating playful labelling for these picnic-friendly beverages.

Local Picks: Wine Society and Coppola brands rank high with San Francisco weekenders.

Have a local food tip of your own? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

The post San Francisco Local Food Trends From 2018 appeared first on Fineman PR.

San Francisco is one of the toughest markets for restaurants to survive in, with sky-high rents and hundreds of options for hungry diners. A wise Uber driver once said, “even if every single resident of San Francisco were dining out at one of the city’s restaurants at the same time, there would still be seats left over.” True or not, it’s clear that the restaurant business is as competitive as ever, and to make it, you must be good.

Having collectively lived in the Bay Area for decades, we’ve eaten our way through San Francisco and are showcasing our list of classic favorites, and trendy hotspots. Without further ado, we present you with a list of our favorite go-to spots by neighborhood. We hope you’ll find it helpful when locating your next happy hour spot, date-night dinner or weekend brunch getaway.

NORTH BEACH

Mama’s

Oh Mama. A local breakfast favorite since the 1960’s, Mama’s serves hearty portions of the best breakfast bites in the city- including dungeness crab benedicts, Swedish cinnamon French toast and the ultimate bloody mary. Local tip: arrive before opening to avoid the long lines.

Fior d’Italia

Dubbed America’s oldest Italian Restaurant (yes, over 132 years old and counting), Fior has survived every natural disaster in San Francisco history, including the great earthquake and fires of 1906. The establishment holds true to their tradition by providing impeccable old-world service and charm. You can’t go wrong with the tagliatelle alla bolognese, ossobuco con polenta or the risotto.

Courtesy of grownuptravelguide.com

Original Joe’s

Established in 1937 by a Croatian immigrant in search of the American Dream, Original Joe’s is a San Francisco classic, serving delicious Italian-American comfort food in spacious red leather booths. Known as “OJ’s” by locals, Original Joe’s was the first “Joe’s Concept” open exhibition kitchen that has grown in popularity over the decades. Make sure to ask for a side of house-made ravioli to complement your entree.

Piccolo Forno

A simplistic and modern layout, this no-frills restaurant allows you to BYOB with no corkage fee and has extremely affordable authentic Italian cuisine. Perfect for a friend’s night out on a budget.

 Courtesy of Piccolo Forno

Il Casaro

A bite of Il Casaro’s pizza brings us back to Italy. This is a must-try for North Beach pizza spots, along with more famed Tony’s Pizza Napoletana.

SOMA / DOGPATCH

Bellota

Located in the base of Airbnb’s hip headquarters, this restaurant shines with their selection of paellas. It takes 30 minutes to prepare, so we recommend pulling up a seat at the bar and ordering some tapas and a pitcher of sangria while you wait. They often have live music, and you’ll be sure to enjoy the lively artwork splashed across their walls.

ROOH

A modern restaurant in a vibrant space, ROOH’s dishes and cocktails will tickle your taste buds with dimensional flavors. It is located across the street from intimate Jax Wine Bar, in case you want to grab a glass of vino on your way.

Courtesy of Eater

Deli Board

This little sandwich shop has a menu full of food coma-worthy options. Bring your appetite and your stretchy pants.

WESTERN ADDITION

Ijji Sushi

If you’re ready to break the bank for a special occasion, this should be on your list. Make a reservation in advance to sit at their small chef’s table where they will prepare a selection of the freshest daily catch right in front of you. They feature only the highest-quality fish and prepare it in a way that accentuates the natural flavors – from fire torched to savory salt rubs.

4505 Burgers & BBQ

There may be a line, but this drool-worthy BBQ is well-worth the wait. Just don’t go too late, or they might sell out of fan favorites.

Courtesy of 4505 Burgers & BBQ

NOPA

From brunch to late night dinner (they’re one of the few restaurants that serve until midnight), you can’t go wrong here. Belly up to the bar and try a sampling of their menu — from spaghetti to avocado toast, each bite is better than the last.

Che Fico

New to town and featured as Eater’s “Most Exciting New Place to Eat Right Now,” the team from Flour + Water brings Italian-style hospitality to this new Divisadero location. You can’t go wrong with their pasta and pizza.

THE RICHMOND

Hong Kong Lounge II

Described as one of the most authentic dim sum experiences in the city, Hong Kong Lounge II presents a medley of delightful little pockets of flaky pork buns, traditional soup dumplings and gooey egg custard tarts. Double down on this experience with the next day’s leftovers.

Chapeau!

This traditional French bistro boasts incredibly flavorful dishes (try the cassoulet) set in a charming, unpretentious dining room. Tucked away on Clement St., Chapeau! Is an unexpected find in a traditionally Asian-inspired restaurant row. Chef Philippe Gardelle makes regular appearances on the restaurant floor to greet his guests and share his coveted techniques.

Courtesy of Chapeau!

PPQ Dungeness Island

Go for the drunken crab and garlic noodles. Stay for the deep-fried banana with ice cream. PPQ is a local Vietnamese seafood treasure located off-the-grid and away from the regular Fisherman’s Wharf tourist trap crab destinations. Be in the company of fearless friends as you rip apart succulent crabs and leave smelling of eau de garlic.

MARINA

Mamanoko

Though we were sad to see Mamacita go, Mamanoko is a welcome addition to the Marina with delicious pork gyoza, fresh sushi and cookie dough rolls for dessert (which taste as good as they sound).

Ace Wasabi

If you’re looking for a fun vibe and equally great food, look no further. From date night to girls’ night, this rock and roll sushi bar has super tasty bites and delicious house rolls. We recommend the tuna poke tostadas with mango, brussels sprouts and the rocket man roll.

Terzo

Marina dwellers live at this upscale neighborhood staple, which is sister to nearby Rose’s cafe. Their personable and knowledgeable staff can recommend the wines to complement any of their delicious dishes, from burrata to roasted chicken and beyond.

Courtesy of Terzo

Blackwood

This modern Thai destination is owned by the founders of Kitchen Story, Sweet Maple, and other well-known SF mainstays. Sit by the fireplace outside, or order takeout — their Millionaire’s bacon is a MUST try, along with the Tom Khu chicken coconut soup, burger, ahi scoops, and… did we say bacon?  

Maybeck’s

Featuring beef wellington Wednesday’s, fried chicken & champagne Tuesday’s and lobster spaghetti Friday’s, you can comfortably slip into Maybeck’s dimly-lit dining room booth for the week. The freshly-made pasta and chopped salad are a must-try in the Marina. 

Courtesy of SF Chronicle

Zushi Puzzle

Talk about an overlooked destination- Zushi Puzzle serves some of the best Japanese dining in the city. Head to the back of the room and sit at the sushi bar with Chef Roger. He will prepare a special omakase experience ranging anywhere from 9 to 20 handmade courses, and keep you laughing the entire time.

Causwells

Comfy and casual, this restaurant offers several shareable favorites from brunch to dinner. Their burger is always a safe bet.

Courtesy of Causwells

HAYES VALLEY

Rich Table

Every bite eaten here is to be savored. Start with their savory donuts, a fun spin on your typical bread basket. We recommend coming for an intimate, special occasion.

Souvla

For fast-casual Greek, try Souvla’s slow-marinated lamb and chicken over a salad or in a sandwich. Don’t even think about leaving without trying their authentic Greek frozen yogurt with sea salt and olive oil. Once you try it, you will be hooked.

PRESIDIO HEIGHTS

Sorrel

What started as a sold-out pop-up dining experience, Sorrel has new permanent roots on Sacramento St. This Cal-Italian fare will delight the palates of the pickiest eaters. Start with the fried soft-shell crab, then splurge on the roasted duck for two.

Courtesy of Sorrel

Spruce

Named Wine Spectator’s Grand Award winner last year, Michelin star- rated Spruce is a fine dining establishment with a cult following (we’re looking at you former President Barack Obama). Don’t let the Baccarat crystal chandelier fool you into ordering foie gras, this spot has the best basic burger in SF (trust us, we’ve tried them all).

FILLMORE/LOWER PACIFIC HEIGHTS

La Mediterranee

This small neighborhood hideout offers half-off wine bottles on Tuesday nights and $20 per person Mediterranean platters with enough food to supply leftovers for your lunch the next day. Hummus and pomegranate chicken and filo pies… oh my!

Wise Sons

Tasty bagels in San Francisco- need we say more? We recommend trying one of their sandwich creations… and planning to take a nap afterwards.

MISSION

Civic Kitchen

Not a restaurant per se, but this brand-new cooking school will offer you the opportunity to cook everything from savory stews to sweet donuts. Come hungry for a meal and leave with a full belly and newfound cooking skills.

Myriad Gastropub

This is a hidden treasure. Though it might not be the newest, trendiest restaurant in SF, this charming, centrally-located spot features an array of flavorful, globally-inspired delicious dishes from all over- and doesn’t break the bank.

Alba Ray’s

If you like Cajun cookin’, this is the place for you. The playful decor matches the soulful dishes and fun frozen cocktail menu.

Al’s Place

Named Bon Appetit’s Restaurant of the Year, Al’s place is a fiercely creative and inspiring space that showcases dishes with unexpected (and delightful) flavors and textures. Try their family style tasting with wine pairing.

Courtesy of Al’s Place

Flour + Water

Gluten. Carbs. Pasta. Flour + Water provides comfort and substance to a diet-restricted world with their daily homemade pasta creations. You can even indulge in their six-dish pasta tasting menu. Dig in- don’t be shy.

Lolo

Family-owned and operated, Lolo dishes out non-traditional Mexican fare that will feed the masses. Dive into their spicy beef albondigas with a sidekick from the agave bar.

Lolinda

The only thing missing from this Argentinian steakhouse is a gaucho to greet you at the door. Offering a wide range of meats cooked over a wood-fired asador, Lolinda’s flavors will make your taste buds sing. Start with the empanadas and end with the homemade churros with dark chocolate and dulce de leche dipping sauces.

FINANCIAL DISTRICT/EMBARCADERO

Leo’s Oyster Bar

Possibly the most Instagrammed restaurant in SF, this hip post-work hotspot features fresh raw bar selections which pair great with their fun specialty cocktail menu (try the bubble bath).

Gott’s Roadside

If you’re looking for high-quality food – and fast – this is at the top of our list. Their Ferry Building location is one of a handful in the Bay Area and features a large patio with seasonal specials- like street corn or fresh salads with locally-sourced ingredients. Known for their burgers (including the meatless Impossible Burger), their tacos and sandwiches are also satisfying.

Waterbar

With breathtaking views of the Bay Bridge, Waterbar is a classic restaurant with an extensive list of high-quality seafood selections. We especially love the swordfish.

Angler

Believe the hype. Angler has lured the San Francisco food fanatics down to the water’s edge with their open wood fire cooking and lush cocktails. Don’t leave without trying the coveted Monterey abalone. 

Courtesy of Angler

Tadich Grill

Having opened in 1849, Tadich Grill is the oldest continuously running restaurant in California and the first to grill seafood over mesquite charcoal. Open the brass double doors to find white jacket-wearing waiters who don’t suffer fools lightly. Pony up to the long, wooden bar that stretches down the side of the room and order the local pan-fried sand dabs with a glass of California’s finest sauvignon blanc. You may be seated next to a local politician or celebrity.

Courtesy of Tadich Grill

Kokkari Estiatorio

As the Financial District quiets down at night, this Mediterranean staple continues to glow. Nightly specials are just as captivating as their tried and true dishes- like their dolmas and lamb.

E&O Kitchen and Bar  

Having celebrated its 20th year in San Francisco last year, E&O continues to stay fresh with $1 oysters and $1 dumplings deals and cocktails served out of pineapples at happy hour.

R&G Lounge

Step off Kearny St. an into an upscale Chinatown Cantonese paradise filled with unique, mouth-watering entrees. Try the famous salt & pepper crab, turnip & beef brisket clay pot and the sautéed eggplant.

POLK GULCH

Cocotte

This small French restaurant is as charming as it is delicious. Come on a warm night and they will leave the doors open al fresco style as if you were dining abroad. Dishes are authentic and flavorful.

Dunya

Perfect for a healthy weeknight post-workout meal, or a Friday night date, this spot features both affordable and yummy Mediterranean dishes. They serve good portions at a great price.

Liholiho Yacht Club

Ready to get transported to Hawaii? Start at Louie’s Gen Gen Room for a tropical cocktail downstairs, then migrate upstairs for dinner in an open-kitchen setting. Everything is delectable, but the beef tongue buns and fried rice are a must.

Mezcalito

With a huge library case of spirits behind the bar, this swanky Polk Street destination is known for fresh Mexican dishes and margaritas. Sombrero optional.

Courtesy of Mezcalito

Swan Oyster Depot

This austere countertop lunch spot has been serving the freshest seafood to San Franciscans for over 100 years. Treasured by the late Anthony Bourdain, Swan Oyster Depot is a must-try for mouth-puckering oysters, chowder and crisp Louie salads. This bastion of tradition serves a “secret menu” for regulars.

CASTRO

Finn Town

This playful bar and kitchen is calling your name. Bring your appetite so you can try their creative menu of California-inspired shareable plates and fun cocktails. They’ll most likely be screening one of your favorite movies, and you’ll become best friends with your server.

Starbelly

Take a seat on Starbelly’s sweet back patio and feel your stress melt away with their approachable drink and food menu, which features many dishes you would probably put on a menu if you decided to open a restaurant.

Do you have a staple spot in SF? Share your top picks with us!

The post Our 2019 San Francisco Restaurant Picks appeared first on Fineman PR.

The Hotlist

• China Live
• SPQR
• La Ciccia
• Mourad
• Delfina
• International Smoke
• Outerlands
• Tartine Manufactory
• State Bird Provisions
• Liholiho Yacht Club
• Leo’s Oyster Bar

 Leo’s Oyster Bar- Courtesy of Krescent Carasso

Money is No Object

• Benu
• Saison
• Atelier Crenn
• Quince
• Campton Place
• Acquerello

Courtesy of Acquerello

Best Views While Having Good Food

• Cliff House
• Waterbar
• Scoma’s Sausalito
• Americano
• Pier 23
• Claremont Hotel
• La Mar Cebicheria
• El Techo de Lolinda
• Greens

Courtesy of Waterbar

Best in the Mission

• True Laurel
• Locanda
• Delfina
• Bar Agricole
• Frances
• Foreign Cinema
• Al’s Place
• Limon
• Commonwealth

Courtesy of Commonwealth

Best in North Beach

• Venticello
• Tosca
• Park Tavern
• The House
• Piccolo Forno

Courtesy of Park Tavern

My Personal Favorites

• Burma Superstar
• International Smoke
• Coqueta
• Kokkari Estiatorio
• The Progress
• Boulevard
• Nopa
• Slanted Door

Courtesy of Kokkari Estiatorio

Best Chinese

• Mister Jiu’s
• Yank Sing
• House of Nanking
• Hakkasan
• R&G Lounge
• Ton Kiang

Courtesy of Hakkasan

Mexican/Latino

• Californios
• Flores
• Padrecito
• Don Pisto’s
• Nopalito
• Limon
• Tacolicious

Courtesy of Californios

Good Value, Good Time, Good Food, Good Bar (Top 10)

• A16
• Park Tavern
• Scala’s
• Wayfare Tavern
• Perbacco/Barbacco
• Delarosa
• Outerlands
• Town Hall
• Tosca
• Belden Alley

Courtesy Wayfare Tavern

Best Wine Country Recommendations

• French Laundry
• Mustard’s
• Bouchon (and bakery next door)
• Morimoto’s
• La Toque
• Solbar
• Redd
• Bistro Don Giovanni
• Ad Hoc
• Bistro Jeanty
• Torc

Courtesy of Bouchon

Best Pizza

• Tommaso’s
• Tony’s Pizza Napoletana
• IL Casaro
• Golden Boy Pizza
• Del Popolo
• Pauline’s

Courtesy of Del Popolo

Worth the Short Trek or Bridge Crossing

• Scoma’s (Sausalito)
• Mountain Home Inn (Mill Valley)
• Chez Panisse (Berkeley)
• Evvia (Palo Alto)
• Everett & Jones BBQ (Oakland)
• Vivace (Belmont)
• Molina (Mill Valley)
• Sushi Ran (Sausalito)
• Terrapin Crossroads (San Rafael)
• La Note (Berkeley)
• Pier 15 (San Rafael)

Scoma’s- Courtesy of Fiveprime

Must Stop Shops

• The Fatted Calf Butchery (Hayes)
• Mario’s Bohemian Cigar Store Cafe (North Beach)
• Lucca Delicatessen (Marina)
• Bi Rite Market (multiple locations)
• Saint Frank Coffee (Russian Hill)
• Ferry Building (Embarcadero)
• Limoncello Delicatessen (Lower Pacific Heights)
• Local Mission Market

Courtesy of Fatted Calf

They Define the City

• Park Tavern
• Swan Oyster Depot
• Slanted Door
• Boulevard
• Zuni
• Elite Café
• Gary Danko
• House of Prime Rib
• Yank Sing
• Hayes Street Grill
• The Ramp
• Mission Rock Resort
• Tadich Grill
• Sam’s Grill & Seafood

 Courtesy of Boulevard

The post Michael Fineman’s 2018 San Francisco Restaurant Picks appeared first on Fineman PR.

In San Francisco, expectations of visitors run high, as they should. The city is spectacular, expensive, and wrought with tourist-traps all the same.  I have to know where to recommend clients and guests shop, dine, relax and have a glorious time while they are visiting. We host conferences here for public relations agencies from around the world (IPREX network, www.iprex.com), I attend professional conferences here, and I travel to other cities to speak, learn and attend to client business.

I also know the impact of peer-to-peer recommendation and word of mouth marketing for a business’ reputation and growth potential. It’s only natural for me to practice what I preach.  Whether by reflex or perennial practice, I can’t help but take note when I encounter an exceptional customer experience. That is why I’ve compiled this not-so-short list of a few of my favorite things to do, see, shop and be in San Francisco:

Best wine and spirits retailers

• Cask – 17 Third St., San Francisco
• Draeger’s Market – 222 E. 4^th, San Mateo – Also in Menlo Park, Danville and Los Altos
• Ferry Plaza Wine Merchant – Ferry Building on the Embarcadero, San Francisco
• Jug Shop – 1590 Pacific Ave. (off Polk), San Francisco
• K&L Wine Merchants – 855 Harrison St., San Francisco – Also in Redwood City
• PlumpJack Wine & Spirits – 3201 Fillmore St., San Francisco
• Weimax – 1178 Broadway, Burlingame
• Whisky Shop – 360 Sutter St., San Francisco
• Wingtip – 550 Montgomery St., San Francisco – (wine & spirits in the back)
• There is always Bevmo, highly commercial, but excellent selection (stores throughout Bay Area)

Best men’s retail stores in S.F. Bay Area

With some further qualifications — you won’t find highly swanky or ultra modern shops mentioned here, although all listed below are upscale. You won’t find for “youth only” clothing that wouldn’t fit you anyway. What you will find are upscale labels, tailored, off the rack, tasteful men’s clothing for guys from 35 to 75+. You’ll find help that knows their business and knows how to fit their customers in straight forward, stylish threads, whether casual or for more dressed occasions. Some of them are more casual than others, and some offer bespoke. If you know a store in other parts of San Francisco or the Bay Area, let me know, and I will be happy to review for inclusion here.

• Couture, 395 Sutter St., S.F.
• Gene Hiller, 729 Bridgeway, Sausalito
• John Varvatos, 152 Geary St., S.F.
• Sarrtori, 740 Laurel St., San Carlos
• Ted Baker, 80 Grant Ave., S.F.
• The Hound, 140 Sutter St., S.F.
• Wingtip, 550 Montgomery St., S.F.

*Also, in San Francisco, three top-shelf department store men’s departments – Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom (both downtown Westfield Center), and Sak’s Fifth Avenue Men’s at 220 Post St., San Francisco.

Best sights, activities and views while in San Francisco and the immediate Bay Area

By the water

• Ocean Beach the Cliff House restaurant, Sutro Baths just below and view point just above
• Ferries on the Bay
• The Embarcadero – walk the waterfront for miles or hike between the distractions on the way
• Ferry Plaza – one of the great Embarcadero distractions; shopping and dining, ferries and views
• Treasure Island – look back for a spectacular view of the downtown skyline
• Crissy Field and Marina Green
• Great Highway, hike the path alongside and just above the ocean
• Fort Funston and Lake Merced
• Crystal Springs Reservoir

Hills

• Twin Peaks – high point in San Francisco
• Mount Davidson — also right in the city
• Land’s End – you’re at the edge; stunning
• Bernal Heights Park
• Mount Sutro
• Marin Headlands (the views, Point bonita Lighthouse, Marine Mammal Center)
• Mount Tamalpais – drive, bike or hike all the way up
• Berkeley Hills and Tilden Park
• Mount Diablo – one of the highest points in the entire region; hard to fathom you are a short drive from downtown (not at height of commute time)

Cool Towns

• Tiburon
• Sausalito,
• Berkeley
• Burlingame
• Palo Alto

Attractions

• Fort Point and Fort Baker and the Golden Gate Bridge linking them
• Jack London Square, Oakland
• City Lights Bookstore and the Beat Museum (both in North Beach)
• Angel Island (S.F.’s Ellis island for Asian immigrants)
• Union Square – shopping, people watching and home to Fineman PR
• Golden Gate Park – hiking, biking, museums
• Alcatraz – worth it I promise
• S.F. Jazz Center
• Beach Blanket Babylon
• Presidio – former military post, now national park
• Filbert Street Steps
• Stern Grove summer concerts
• AT&T Park (home of the S.F. Giants)
• St. George Spirits Distillery (Alameda)
• Emeryville Public Market
• S.F. Civic Center (Opera, Ballet, Symphony, City Hall, Asian Art Museum)
• And not to be forgotten, the mainstays: Coit Tower, Ghirardelli Square and The Cannery, cable cars, Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, and crooked Lombard Street

Museums

• Legion of Honor
• San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (MOMA)
• De Young

San Francisco neighborhoods

• North Beach – Columbus Avenue, Italian flavored, vestiges of old bohemians, restaurants and bars
• Castro – LGBT-centered, edgy
• Marina – Think singles, Chestnut Street, Marina Green, Bay views from Fort Mason to Fort Point
• Noe Valley – gentrified, families, 24^th Street shopping
• Chinatown – touristy but authentic
• The Mission – still Latino but more and more the younger folk in hip restaurants and bars
• Telegraph Hill
• Nob Hill
• Russian Hill
• Fillmore – lots of shops
• Haight-Ashbury – where it’s still the ‘sixties
• Richmond – down Clement, think fog
• Sunset – down Irving, think fog
• Union Street – near and related to the Marina
• Hayes Valley – a “scene,” near San Francisco’s Civic Center
• Potrero Hill – Think Bullitt car chase, street scenes up and down, up and down, up and down
• Pacific Heights – Billionaire Row
• Bernal Heights – Cortland Avenue shopping village thoroughfare

Watering Holes with views

• Top of the Mark (Nob Hill)
• Top of the Marriott Marquis The View Lounge (downtown)
• Waterbar – along the Embarcadero, almost underneath the Bay Bridge; also good fish and seafood
• Pier 23
• Starlight Room (atop the Sir Francis Drake Hotel
• Cityscape Bar & Restaurant (Hilton)
• Cliff House (on the ocean)
• Slanted Door – in Ferry Plaza; also known as one of the best restaurants in the U.S. (Vietnamese/Pacific rim)
• Fisherman’s Wharf/Pier 39 – several
• The Ramp
• El Techo (rooftop bar in the Mission)
• Mission Rock Resort
• Ferry Building
• Beach Chalet (near Cliff House, sometimes called Park Chalet)
• Green’s – wonderful vegetarian restaurant in Fort Mason along the Bay
• The Waterfront Restaurant
• Coqueta – a personal favorite
• La Mar Cebicheria – Peruvian; beautiful space along the Embarcadero, on the Bay with terrific food
• McCormick & Kuleto’s – in Ghirardelli Square
• Scoma’s Sausalito
• Sam’s Tiburon
• Skates – on the Berkeley side of the Bay
• Claremont Hotel – spectacular views from the Oakland hills
• Cavallo Point – at foot of Golden Gate Bridge on Sausalito side

Extended Stay/Exploring Nearby

• Wine Country (Napa and/or Sonoma)
• Russian River
• Carmel/Monterey
• Half Moon Bay
• Santa Cruz
• Point Reyes
• Stinson Beach
• Muir Woods
• Bodega Bay
• Muir Beach
• Ano Nueva State Park (elephant seals)
• Gold Country
• Big Sur
• Lake Tahoe
• Yosemite

The post That’s What He Said: My Guide to Do, See, Shop and Be in San Francisco appeared first on Fineman PR.

Everyone is talking about food these days. If it’s not pink slime, bug juice, mechanically separated something or high fructose corn syrup, it’s flax seed, juice diets, kale, greek yogurt, and panko crumbs. In the last day or so, a group is pushing for the White House to ban photos of the President enjoying apparently taboo foods. Now, I grew up on my mother’s Jane Brody-inspired health food in Southern California, and have a three-year old who calls a flax seed granola bar a “cookie”…but even I have officially reached my limit.

First, let’s consider the “foodie” badges I could earn: I’m a public relations specialist in the food and beverage industry. I have a terrible reputation among my family for substituting low-fat, plain yogurt for sour cream and lean ground turkey for beef. I bake my pie crusts from scratch.  The rearing-little-locavores award could also be mine since I make and freeze all of my six-month-old’s baby food using fruits and vegetables from the local farmer’s market.

But, I have no problem offering my older daughter chicken nuggets once-in-awhile (and not the organic kind). I like corn dogs (but prefer the whole grain, lean poultry ones to their fattier beef counterparts). Occasionally I’ll treat my daughter to ketchup on the side of her plate. She is a fiend for french fries. And I’ve been known to buy those convenient cracker and cheese kits to make her mealtime a little easier for my husband when I’m on a business trip.

And even though I can hear the critique coming from miles away…(Processed foods?! Am I going to mommy hell?!) I sleep well at night.

Here’s why: What I love most about food is preparing it (or serving it) with love for family and friends. I take great pride in providing for my family. That cracker kit? Sure, not the healthiest entree, but in the grand scheme of things, it’s fun and makes life easier for just one meal and that earns me major points with the husband and my daughter. On those days, I still consider the food I haven’t prepared, be it a convenience item and highly processed, to be a good choice for my family.  Just like my homemade grilled vegetables and chicken is good for us on other days.  Of course, I think I read somewhere that we’re not supposed to grill anymore, either!

Food, for me, is fun, inspiring and a way I show people that I care. Every day now, I hear or read about foods not being good enough, or worse, being dangerous. It’s aggravating when it comes from family, but unthinkable when it comes from complete strangers.

No wonder the U.S. ranks only 25^th in the ranking of the world’s best countries to be a mother. From the time our babies are born, we are watched, judged, criticized or congratulated for how we choose to feed our families. Don’t believe me? Check out this week’s issue of Time.

I understand the need for a fresh look at the American diet, and applaud the increased attention to nutrition education and the virtues of fresh, local foods. Food label transparency and education is key. But this constant rant about what not to eat, or worse, what is scary to eat, especially when it’s based on an agenda, runs the risk of turning listeners off completely.

Please save the warnings for when it really counts. Food recalls. Epidemics on U.S. soil. Otherwise, if the President chooses to indulge in a Five Guys craving on his lunch break before a dinner from The First Lady’s garden, let him have his burger…and I’ll take one, too.

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The conference was hosted by Fineman PR for our worldwide colleagues of IPREX an international partnership of independent PR firms with extensive and varied public relations experience  and whose clients include some of the world’s most recognized corporations and brands.

Good public relations is one thing. But good online public relations is another. With the tools, media and landscape ever evolving online, public relations programs must improve efficiency, accuracy and credibility in rapid fire timing. Yesterday’s tools (SEO) may not be the answer for tomorrow’s challenges. (Yes, you read that right… SEO is not the quick fix to your brand’s online existence.) And now, more than ever, PR must reclaim its role as the synchronizing agent for corporate communications online for the sake of credibility and consistency.

Between an insider’s taste of Sonoma’s wine country, and in good timing with the Sonoma International Film Festival, our group shared collective insights about best practices in online reputation management and learned from established leaders in online communications. The sessions (as well as the wine) did not disappoint.

Well-known wine writer and author, Paul Franson, and luxury wine executive, Jean Arnold Sessions, of Hanzell Vineyards, helped immerse our senses in the opportunities and challenges for historic wine brands as they strive to genuinely engage with consumers online in real time, while maintaining the prestige and tradition of their time-honored, barrel-aged past. (Talk about a dichotomy of pace/timing.)

Next, we spoke with Jay Walsh, head of Communications for Wikimedia Foundation. For anyone who has ever thought of Wikipedia as “just” an online encyclopedia, think again. Jay shared insights into the building movement for freedom of information online thanks to 92,000 volunteer “Wikipedians” and presented a compelling case for online media transforming as a result.   Owen Tripp, co-founder of Reputation.com, discussed the growing challenges of online privacy for brands and individuals and how to evolve strategic programs for the benefits (and privacy) of our clients while addressing nagging issues for search relevancy. Paul Mabray, CEO of VinTank shared en pointe social media tips for e-commerce and online brands.

In PR, we talk about tips and tools often. And for good reason: good PR doesn’t sit on a shelf until it’s needed. A good PR program is actively behind the scenes, building alliances, anticipating change, adding dimension and looking for the next big opportunity. As strategic counselors, it’s our job not to just keep up, but to keep an eye out for what’s next and evolve that conversation.

For more on the IPREX conference: https://finemanpr.com/souvenirs-from-iprex-sonoma-conference/

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