San FranCelia

When deciding what do to on a Saturday night, there are endless options in San Francisco.  You can hit up a new restaurant and sit for hours through all the courses, check out the bars for the perpetual draw of ‘the scene’, or go see a show in one of the many musical venues the City offers.  Deciding that the latter was something I don’t usually do, we decided to go old school and visit the San Francisco Symphony.  What a rare treat that’s so close yet feels so far away.  The Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall is a nod to modern art as it’s exquisitely lit exterior draws crowds into its simple, yet effective interior.  You look around as the music is playing, and you begin to appreciate the true architectural genius of the space in regards to acoustics, as well.  There are movable convexacrylic reflecting panels that can change position with each performance to optimize sound.  Brilliant!  I love orchestral experiences like this, as I feel it’s not only something that I remember from being involved in music when I was young, but also it’s a way to understand and keep in mind our musical roots in today’s ever changing musical environment.  Last night was a part of the Symphony’s Mahler09Festival, where they paid homage to a true orchestral genius, Gustav Mahler.  The effervescent music ebbed and flowed perfectly, and was only broken up by brief explanations of the music by the conductor. What a great idea, as it really helps you understand what you are listening for.  Very accessible to those of us who love music, but don’t necessarily go to the symphony all the time.  This is one of the best parts of events like this in San Francisco; the easy and relaxed feel of the people involved.  It’s such a plus, as the events are truly accessible for the every day person.  Yes, the people you see at intermission are dressed nicely and are probably a board member of some sort of artistic endeavor, but you wouldn’t know it.  Everyone is there for the music alone.

While an older crowd for the most part which can be a turn off, I believe it’s important to support artistic treasures that are truly San Francisco.  Don’t let it deter you, as the music is definitely worth it.  If you feel a little too chi-chi afterwards, you can always do what we did and hit up a divey (but delicious!) taqueria for a late night dinner.  Nothing better than mixing up your nightly experiences, which thank God for us, is so easy in our illustrious city.

Peace and love Xo

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There is a great little hidden away spot that is wonderful for a crazy night out at the bars, a chill happy hour, or even a quick bite to eat.  Cigar Bar, located on the North Beach/Financial District cusp, is one of my favorite spots in the City, and tonight for happy hour, I was reminded why I love it so much.  While there is a small cover on the weekends (you’ll be hard pressed not to find one in that section of the City), it holds so much that’s it’s worth it.  You walk into the Spanish style hideaway, and are greeted by a below-ground bar area constructed of ceramic tile that is reminiscent of a rustic villa, and are immediately given options.  If you continue straight, you’ll hit live music and a small dance floor that burns up when the crowd is poppin’.  If you want to have a Spanish man sweep you into a real salsa dance or impress your lady with your salsa skills, this is a great venue.  If you take a left, you are outside on the massive smoking patio – it is called Cigar Bar after all – where there are large groupings of tables and a central fountain that is beautifully decorated (they even turn on heaters in the winter, thank God).  The bar is the central focal point when you walk in, so it’s best to start there, no matter what your party style is.  Their drinks are fresh, and they make all of their tequila drinks in the old fashioned way – think margaritas made with tequila and fresh lime juice with triple sec, no sweet and sour – and they are affordable (around $6!)… Yum!  There is even a small grouping of rooms past the smoking patio that allows for some indoor comfort should the smoking and dancing prove to be too extreme.

The best thing about this hip and tucked away loungy hotspot is its vibe.  It’s not too trendy but not too hipster.  The crowd is a mixture of musicians, retro cigar smokers, and the young and relaxed North Beach crowd – one of the best, in my opinion.  Hip, accepting, and always ready for a good time, you’ll be sure to meet people and enjoy the night. Even if you’re not a smoker (hey, I’m not), it’s a fantastic San Francisco original that everyone will fall in love with.

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Life has been so busy in the City these days.  I’ve been checking out some great shops, eateries, and neighborhoods, which has left me out of breath (in a good way!).  In this city, thankfully, there are restaurants of every sort t ensure you never get bored.  While I am not a vegetarian, there are some meat-free hotspots offering up tasty and unexpected fare that are really worth checking out – even for you carnivores.  While I believe meat (in moderation, of course) is good for health, it’s nice to take a break at a place where vegetables alone let their creative sides show.  I went to Greens in Fort Mason, and their artistic chefs know just how to transform regular vegetables into works of culinary art.  Very inspirational for those of us trying to stay healthy.

We started with the Artisan Cheese Selection, garnished with olives and flat bread, and while I opted out of an alcoholic beverage (in keeping with the healthy theme), there is a diverse and extensive wine list.  This is very good to know for future reference.  For my main course I had the Masa Harina Crepe, and it was delicious!  Delicately decorated with pico de gallo, chilies, cilantro and crème fraiche, its flavors did sparkle.  Each dish that we had, actually, including the Chanterelle Mushroom and Leek Tartlet and the Mesquite Grilled Brochettes, was hearty and different, and actually left you too full for even an espresso.  Amazing.  Only downside was the price.  At around $20 a plate, you definitely look at the bill and think, ‘where’s the beef?’ (hardy, har…)

Greens is in one of the on-the-water spaces in Fort Mason, giving a bit of a boxy and modern, yet subtly antique feel, all with a watery backdrop.  Perfect setting for a relaxed and healthy meal.  Check this spot out the next time you want to keep it light.  It’s great for small groups.

Peace and love Xo

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