According to the great Tennessee Williams, there are only 3 cities in America. Namely New York City, New Orleans and San Francisco, and the rest is somehow Cleveland. Well, we don’t see the situation quite so dramatically, but his statement cannot be completely dismissed. What all three have in common is that they are unique metropolises whose charisma extends far beyond the country’s borders. We start in great California and set out to find things you can only experience in San Francisco:
Drinking Beer in a Chocolate Factory
Historic Ghiradelli Square is not only the origin of the famous chocolate and home to the iconic lettering, but also the home of SF Brewing Co & Restaurant. Not far from the Bay, you can get excellent pub food and even better craft beer here, and people-watch in the campus beer garden when the weather’s nice.
And there’s plenty to see, promised. You can also visit the Ghriadellishop, a chocolate museum and several other shops.
Strolling through a famous Prison
Perhaps the most famous prison island in the world was in operation until 1963 and now serves as a museum. It is located directly in front of the city, about 2 kilometres from the mainland. The island can be reached by ferry, which departs several times a day and takes just under 20 minutes. Since it is everything but an insider tip, you should definitely book your visit to the island in advance.
And by well in advance, we mean several weeks in advance. Plan a couple of hours for the excursion, because what is on offer is quite unique. Tip: The audio guide has recordings of former prisoners and guards that you can play at the exact places they talk about. Goosebumps guaranteed!
Ride a Cable Car
Once the city’s main means of transport, the cable-drawn carriages nowadays at least still take first place among tourists. They work their way impressively over San Francisco’s countless steep hills and make for fantastic photo opportunities. A single ticket costs about 8 dollars, not including a change of trains.
Tickets can be purchased from the conductor for most routes, but have the exact amount ready in cash. However, it is easier to buy the tickets in advance via the app or the website of the public utility company. As the trains are well booked, you can find the ideal boarding point at one of the less frequented stations – try to avoid the turning points. Once you’ve got your seat, hold on tight and enjoy the iconic ride.
Pay 70 Dollar for Fast Food
It has long been no surprise that a visit to the United States of America is not a cheap affair. Especially when the dollar and the euro reach a rather unique parity at the time of the visit. But that’s just the artist’s misfortune and has to be accepted.
The two pizzas with two beers in a fast food pizzeria with ending charm were not bad at all, but also not that big and cost us a hefty 70 dollars with an adequate tip. This was quite a surprise, as it was the first meal we had in San Fran.
Celebrate Sourdough like its a Rockstar
That the “Fructilactobacillus sanfranciscensis” is indeed a bacterium of its own seems to be scientifically confirmed. It was discovered in sourdoughs from local bakeries. The special climate of the Bay is responsible for the special character and the very special taste, which may not be to everyone’s taste. However, this does not dampen the nationwide enthusiasm for the food.
The city’s most famous bakery is the Boudin Bakery not far from Fishermans Wharf. The legendary sourdough bread has been produced by the Boudin family since 1849 and is selling like hot cakes. In the show bakery in the Wharf, you can watch the bakers at work, watch the bread baskets flying through the shop on their way to the shelves and enjoy an excellent meal.
