This city is amazing! Let's remember that I'm a Jersey girl and come from the Land of Sarcasm and Unfriendliness (a generalization, I realize, but visit the Garden State and you'll know what I mean), so coming to San Francisco and being surrounded by so many laid-back, friendly people is a very pleasant surprise. Those who know me aren't surprised when I strike up conversation with strangers; I love meeting new people and making new friends. From the moment I stepped of the plane, I began encountering people who, not only made eye-contact and smiled at me as I passed, but were helpful and welcoming of a visitor.
After exploring the city on my own, my friend and lovely hostess, Lindsay and I went over the Golden Gate Bridge to wine country. I never thought much of it. I mean, it's a bridge; how exciting could it possibly be? Well, maybe it's just me, but I thought it was breathtaking. The structure itself is a sight, as is the view from it of the San Francisco Bay. Our trip over the bridge led us north into Sonoma county to the many vineyards and wineries there. Our first stop was to the Armida Winery, with breathtaking views and a killer Poi Zin a zinfandel "to die for"...get it? it's funny. I had an idea that Sonoma would be beautiful and sprawling; what I didn't expect was the autumn colored grape leaves. Although California doesn't experience the traditional seasons that I'm used to from back east, all of the vineyards we passed were a bouquet of reds, yellows and oranges. It made my first experience in wine country that much more special.
The vineyards of Armida Winery look like a beautiful watercolor
Our next stop was at the Twomey Cellars for more tasting. Having not utilized the "dump bucket" at Armida, Lindsay and I were feeling relaxed and ready to sip more vino. Our pourer, Ann was not only knowledgeable, but so friendly that after tasting all of the wines and chatting, she offered to give us a tour of the facility. We felt so VIP. I learned so much about the bottling process and was also schooled on my taste in wine. I wrote of Merlot long ago as dull, simple red wine, but after tasting Twomey's 2006, I was blown away by the tasting notes and complexity of it. It was, by far my favorite wine of the day. If I close my eyes, I can still taste the butter cream and spice that lingered after a sip.
Twomey Cellars 2010 Pinot Noir...I wanted to roll a barrel home
We visited a few more wineries after this, but as we stuck to our "no dump bucket" policy, I'm a bit hazy on the details of those visits. I think everyone should visit wine country and see how much love and attention goes into making this age-old libation.
After keeping it classy wine tasting in Sonoma, I was hell bent on sating my 4 year craving for In-N-Out Burger. I first had the delicious fast food on my trip to Los Angeles 8 years ago. I can safely say it was love at first bite. The delectable, fresh-cut french fries and super yummy beef patty and fresh buns are only enhanced by ordering one's burger "animal style" which is with grilled onions and secret sauce. If you've never had In-N-Out, then you haven't truly lived. My plane ticket was worth the meal alone.
A #3, "animal style" is a thing of beauty
Fisherman's Wharf was a fun little trip, although very touristy and super cheesy. After snapping a few pics of "The Rock" and watching some street performers do so acrobatics, I got to explore Alamo Square and the "painted ladies" or for any of my peers, The Full House houses. Alas, no Uncle Jesse or Kimmy Gibbler sightings, but the park is really pretty and it was yet another example of how much San Franciscans love being outdoors. It was great to see how many people ride bikes, run, play frisbee and lounge outside in the always cool and sunny weather.
Makes me sing: "What ever happened to predictability, the milkman, the paperboy, evening tv?"
One thing I didn't want to miss on my trip was the gourmet food trucks in and around the city. I learned Not only do these trucks offer amazing food at very affordable prices, they roam about the city and you can find their location by following them on Twitter.
There are so many options, but I was most excited to try Chairman Bao's Bun Truck. I found the truck parked at the top of Haight St. (with a bunch of other trucks too!) and the very helpful girl who took my order recommended the pork belly with mango slaw. I'm so glad she did, because it was so delicious! I also tried Little Green Cyclo's sweet potato fries with coconut/chive and mango/mint dipping sauces. Yum! If you're ever in San Francisco, you should not miss experiencing the food trucks like a local.The finale of my trip was the Jets game on Sunday. My only concern about taking my trip was that it was going to be the first home game I would miss in the stadium. Where was I going to watch the game (with volume) in California?! Well, lucky for me , I didn't have to search long until I found the NY Jets fans in San Francisco on Facebook. This group of diehard fans gathers every time the Jets play at R Bar in the city. It was so great to be in my Jet's jersey among other screaming fans; I felt right at home...especially since we won! J-E-T-S, Jets! Jets! Jets!
A little "Gang Green" in San Francisco
My trip to San Francisco was nothing short of incredible and I can't wait to go back. The city has so many interesting places to explore and even more friendly people to meet. I really felt at home there and consequently, became quite savvy at navigating the bus system. I highly recommend San Fran as destination to anyone looking for a fun and dynamic vacation. There is so much that I didn't get to see and do and it was a bit difficult to get on the plane home. I love San Francisco; I guess you could say I left my heart there.
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