San Francisco Photo Diary

In August, I was lucky enough to return to San Francisco for a long weekend. We booked our flights and Airbnb sort of on a whim, and I’m so happy we did. It was refreshing to escape for a bit, exploring new parts of the city I didn’t get to back in April. This trip was especially exciting since it was my boyfriend’s first time in California. Located in the Mission, our Airbnb was propped up on one of the steepest streets (even for SF). It’s safe to say we got a good leg workout in each day.

Said street.

What do you eat when you’re feeling a tad jet-lagged and have plans to meet up with an old friend? Ramen, of course. We headed to Ramenwell, a hole-in-the-wall restaurant on 18th street. The great service, authentic flavors, and huge portions blew us away. Truly a must-visit. After our bellies were full, we hiked back to our abode and called it a night.

There’s nothing better than waking up on vacation (ideally in the comfiest bed you’ve ever slept in) with an excited heart and inquisitive mind for the day’s explorations. Walking down our street never grew old as it was decorated with unique architecture and stunning flowers. I couldn’t help but take a quick snap every time we walked past a new entryway covered in colorful blooms. A handful of locals even told us August was a great time to visit. Once down the hill, the view of Mission Dolores Park greeted us with local sunbathers and an iconic skyline view.

It’s safe to say our main goal of the trip was to try some great vegan spots, especially in the Mission. I didn’t mind indulging in some great coffee, too. We stopped at Dolores Park Cafe to satisfy o̶u̶r̶ my caffeine addiction.

Nourish Cafe on Hyde Street is a great place to refuel after sightseeing/tackling all the hills. When I first came here in April, I knew it would be a spot I would always revisit. Their “JUST egg” frittata sandwich is reason enough!

You can never go wrong with the Ferry Building Marketplace, the mecca of food halls. You name it, they have it. Our favorite merchants included Village Market, Donut Farm, Mariposa Baking Company, and Farm Fresh To You.

One thing I always look forward to when traveling is checking out each city’s selection of vintage/thrift stores. Thrifting is always a rewarding hobby, and being in a new city makes it all more exciting. Valencia and Haight Street are great places to start. I recommend Community Thrift and no. vintage.

A highlight of the trip was dining at Greens Restaurant. Taking farm-to-table to another level, the restaurant works directly with local, organic farmers to curate fresh and unique dishes. I highly recommend trying the strawberry and nectarine crisp with ginger streusel and some melt-in-your-mouth coconut sorbet. Truly a dish you’ll be thinking about long after your trip. The views of the harbor and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge aren’t too bad either (;

Thrifted faux leather jacket (via Thredup), Reformation t-shirt, Asos linen pants

Wholesome Bakery

On day three, we found ourselves at Wholesome Bakery, a homey cafe serving homemade and seasonal fare. Their breakfast toast selection of avocado or tapenade and goat-less cheese was spot on.

Speciality rolls Plot Twist and Boddy and Soul

If you find yourself in the Mission, be sure to stop by Shizen Sushi Bar and Izakaya. Everything is vegan and 100% to. die. for (as evidenced in the photos above). Raved about previously in my SF Travel Guide, I recommend arriving 15 to 20 minutes before opening for seating. Other notable stops in the Mission include Garden Creamery, IndoChine, and Dog Eared Books.

Moral of this post, San Francisco is a place I will always be excited to visit. Its vivacious energy, stunning views, and unique food scene are reasons enough. Until next time, SF.

xo Kara