San Francisco, CA-Part I=No Snappy Title. Just the Intro and Union Square.

San Francisco is the only city on the West Coast even remotely reminiscent of the East. I am not saying that is good or bad, but I like things a little worn around the edges. Take a good amount of NYC, mix in a touch of DC, a smidge of Philly and throw that into a pan of California. I have a great deal of respect for this city and its people, even in the Tenderloin. Relatively small in size for such an influential metropolitan masterpiece, San Francisco is also a land of extremes. Extreme wealth and poverty, co-existing just blocks away from each other. Several of the finest restaurants in the world, only a strip club away from some of the most overpriced, bland crap fare you will ever put near your mouth. And don’t even get me started on the weather, as I can never figure this one out. It appears to have 9 weather systems going on at once in its 46.7 square miles. I am warning you now to layer.

My advice when visiting any new place is to do some homework. Understand the lay of the land, read a bit about its history, and have a basic understanding of the things you want to see and do. For San Francisco, I recommend studying a bit more than the bare minimum. Because it is so condensed and much of it is within walking distance from the downtown area, prepare by having your routes planned in advance. This will not only save time, but will also help you avoid some of the more suspect areas. Unless, of course, you like to watch the “crackhead shuffle” and smell fresh urine, there are a few blocks it’s best to stay away from. For those that are more adventurous, the previously mentioned Tenderloin will have you occasionally checking over your shoulder; however, it’s not as nearly as bad as it’s made out to be. Doing this bit of extra research will also keep you clear of some of those crap-tastic dining options that I mentioned earlier. These places have sucker, I mean tourist, written all over them. They cater to the unsuspecting and can leave you with a bad taste in your mouth for one of the finest culinary cities in the world. Listen to the locals and you will be rewarded handsomely.

Union Square is the commercial center of the city. Far from being its heart, this is likely where you will be staying, or at least within several blocks. This Square is actually more rectangular in shape and is home to many high-end retail establishments such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Gucci, Prada, Dior, Dolce & Gabana , Armani and others. If shopping is your thing and you prefer malls over adventure, this is your place.

Start one of your days off at Sears Fine Foods. This San Francisco tradition has been around since 1938 and is famous for their Swedish pancakes. However, before you order those pancakes you will wait in a deceptively long line outside the front door. The only time I have not seen a line outside Sears is when the restaurant has been closed. Fortunately the staff is very organized and the line moves quickly. Though known for the little pancakes, try the Eggs Benedict if you are a fan. You will not regret it. With a Hollandaise sauce that is more tangy than most, it is simply delicious.

For the ultimate in San Francisco tourist attractions, two major cable car lines begin on Powell. If you have never ridden one before, I recommend giving it a short ride to say you have, but don’t rely on this slow, crowded, uncomfortable and pricey form of transportation as a way to get around town. The novelty can wear off very soon. JJ

Part II will feature Chinatown, the Civic Center, and everyone’s favorite…the Tenderloin.

Check out our pictures of San Francisco by clicking here.