San Francisco Travel Guide

When John-Charles Boisset married Gina Gallo, wine worlds collided to create a meteoric galaxy custom made for die-hard oenophiles. Case in point, the JCB Tasting Lounge at the Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco. “Though she be but little, she is fierce” comes to mind when entering this diminutive, striking little jewel box. Deliciously decadent; the lounge is decked out with purple velvet settees set atop leopard print rugs and a Harry Potter-esque collection of digital masterworks that graces the walls with everything from Magritte’s ‘Son of Man’ to Picasso’s greatest hits. Don’t let the whimsical aesthetic fool you, though; the JCB Tasting Lounge is serious when it comes to tasting flights that soar.

After cocktails, head over to 1601 Bar and Kitchen where Chef Brian Fernando’s Sri Lankan roots join forces with his French culinary training. While the inimitable Portuguese Octopus is stellar by all accounts, those having trouble deciding what to order can always opt for Fernando’s curated, degustation menu – impeccably designed to hit all the chef’s high spots.

From the unmarked entrance on Jones Street to the labyrinth of secret tunnels beneath, everything about Bourbon & Branch has an uncanny knack to have you feeling like Gatsby in less time than it takes to swing a croquette mallet. Guests who come to the tony bar for a nightcap are warned, “don’t even think about ordering a Cosmo”. No worries – there’s plenty more options for your empty glass thanks to an impressively crafted cocktail menu. True aficionados can go old school with a selection from an extensive bourbon list that includes hand numbered offerings from Noah’s Mill and Buffalo Trace. Or, for an experience nothing short of ‘spiritual’, indulge in a wee dram of their covetable, Glenmorangie Margaux Finish Scotch – Bourbon & Branch lays claim to one of the few bottles of the stuff available anywhere this side of Edinburgh.

And if you’re a bit of a chocoholic, make your way to Dandelion Chocolate in the Mission District for the most heavenly, artisan chocolate in town that is also sustainably sourced.

While it may be on the ‘To Do’ list of every San Francisco tourist, a trip to The Rock might uncover a few surprises even seasoned Franciscophiles have yet to experience. A tour of the Gardens of Alcatraz takes guests through the restored grounds while also telling a fascinating about life on The Rock – not for the inmates, but for the prison staff and their families who called the ominous island home. It is not for nothing that this is one of the most famous San Francisco points of interest.

Fans of Armistead Maupin will appreciate Tours of the Tales, an inspired way to bring Maupin’s books and films to life through a collection of curated San Francisco tours. Available in PDF format, the tours even come with Google Map hyperlinks to ensure you spend more time enjoying the destinations and less time navigating them.

Once a blue-collar neighbourhood dotted with industry, the reinvented area of Dogpatch is worthy of high praise. Try a beignet from Just For You – it’s been rumoured that just one bite can make a grown man cry. Then, wipe your tears and get ready to channel your inner Bear Grylls with a trip to the decidedly rugged Triple Aught Design where chic camping couture and accoutrement for the outdoorsman abounds.

After whetting your appetite at the local watering holes, further fuel your interest in life’s finer, liquid moments with a visit to Cask and their enormous selection of libations. Famous for offering rare and limited edition bottles, Cask even has an in-house engraving service where your favourite can be personalized with a name, monogram, message or custom artwork. Once you’ve chosen your poison, round out the day by heading to Acacia on Valencia Street and browse their collection of inspired glassware from which to serve it.

In a ready to wear world, a made to measure siren’s song can be strong. And once you see the stunning array of custom made suits, jackets, and trousers created by Seymour’s on Sutter Street, you’ll see how forty years of experienced craftsmanship works to your advantage. For bespoke with an edgier vibe, head to one of Taylor Stitch’s two San Francisco locations. In this ‘no appointment required’ atelier, a custom shirting department is complemented by off the rack options produced in small quantities – all the better to make a one of a kind fashion statement with ease.