Sunny Skies in San Francisco

Perfect sunny California is home to the winter Fancy Food Shows in San Francisco. A highlight is always sampling the winners of the Good Food Awards that are held on the Friday night before the show opens. The regular Saturday morning outdoor farmers’ market is always abuzz with shoppers purchasing fantastic local products and lining up for the offerings from their favourite food truck.

It wouldn’t be a trip to San Francisco without a Saturday lunch at the Hog Island Oyster Co. in the Ferry Building to enjoy a variety of fresh oysters. This popular spot has a lineup that starts well before they open.

A few years ago Bon Appetit magazine voted State Bird Provisions at 1529 Fillmore St. as America’s best new restaurant. Dozens of people lined up to take their chances at a spot to dine an hour before doors open.

Another well-known spot in Chinatown is R & G Lounge at 631 Kearny St., where again people lined up to get a table. The signature dish is the salt and pepper fried crab. This messy and absolutely delectable dish is outstanding, as were the homemade noodles with bok choy and melt-in-your-mouth beef.

For a spectacular panoramic view of the city, take an elevator ride up to the top floor of the InterContinental Mark Hopkins Hotel, one of the city’s finest historical hotels at One Nob Hill. The restaurant On The Mark offers good food and service.

Where to stay:

If you don’t mind dealing with the incredibly steep streets, the Fairmont on Nob Hill is an elegant hotel to spend a few days. Originally built in 1906 and surviving the earthquake and fire, it officially opened in 1907.

The Kimpton chain also offers up several properties in San Franscisco.

Another lovely boutique hotel is Galleria Park Hotel centrally located in the Financial district.