How to eat your way around the city, feel fabulous and see the essentials!
There are so many reasons to be a vegan these days: dark chocolate vegan gelato, vegan buffalo wings, scrambled tofu, oat milk lattes, cauliflower coconut dahl, jackfruit pancakes, the list goes on. On the other hand, there are so many ways to enjoy this incredible city and there’s so little time to see everything. So, if you’re here for a day and you’ve come with an appetite this is by far the tastiest tour of the city (vegan or not).
6:00AM: Work up an appetite at Marshall’s Beach
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Head to this remote and rugged beach to watch the sunrise light up the bay. This beach is located in the Presidio, a former U.S. Army military fort that has been turned into a national park. The setting is nothing short of inspiring and you’ll have a picturesque view of the city, her iconic red bridge and you will get to dip your toes in the Pacific all at the same time.
7:00AM: Stop for a pick-me-up waffle at Nourish
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If you did the trail here you deserve a plate of pure quinoa and almond goodness, topped with whatever seasonal fruit your heart desires. It’s all GF and full of natural protein so you’re completely entitled to lay on the syrup too.
9:30AM: See some art in Golden Gate Park
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Once you’ve nourished your belly, it’s time for an essential visual feast. Take in the famous park, all the international art and the incredible bay views at the de Young Museum. There is plenty to see so check their exhibitiion calendar and be sure to head up to the observation tower on the 9th floor (it’s free and accessible whether you’re going into the exhibition halls or not). If you can, stop by the Conservatory of Flowers on the way out for a quick pic. Then head to the next stop.
11:00AM: Get a box of baked goodies to go at Wholesome Bakery
Sip on a vegan rose matcha latte and add a mix of olive oil loaf, cupcakes, bagels and a couple of raspberry pistachio truffles in a box and then hit the road again. Keep the box shut until you get to the next spot.
Okay, go on then, just one truffle.
11:30AM: A picnic with the Painted Ladies
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Head to Alamo Square Park and take in the pastel houses and sweeping city views. Pick on your pastry snacks while you people watch and pat the furry friends that stop by to say hi. If you’re running low on caffeine, then, Lady Falcon Coffee Club’s vintage truck will sort you out with a bespoke beverage. Take a leisurely stroll to Cathedral of St Mary of the Assumption to have a look at some ground-breaking architecture before heading to the next food stop. Alternatively, if you’re still miraculously peckish you can stop by Mochill.
1:00PM: City Light Books and dumplings in Chinatown
Wander around the beautiful, busy streets of Chinatown and stop by Enjoy Vegetarian Restaurant for delicious rice noodles or vegan dumplings, all at very reasonable prices and with no garlic or onion used. Once you’ve stuffed your face, roll down the road to cult bookstore, City Lights, to lap up American literature in the birthplace of the Beat generation.
2:00PM: Blue Bottle Coffee in the Ferry Building Market
Taste some of the world’s best beans in the historic marketplace. Allow the coffee craftsmen to fix you a mesmerizing pour-over or an oat milk latte while you take in the views of the waterfront. Then, stroll through the stalls picking up any other vegan snacks that you can stash for later. Walk along the Eastern shoreline stopping at the Exploratorium for a quick poke around before heading to Pier 33.
3:30PM: Snacks and Ferry to Alcatraz
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A prison may not seem appealing on paper but it’s is filled with crazy history and interesting stories, including the infamous escapes. Tuck into whatever supplies you have left on you and explore the island for a couple of hours before enjoying a sunset in the Bay on the cruise back.
6:30PM: Dinner and views at Greens
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The journey comes to an end at the upscale Greens, with incredible views of the Marina and even more incredible food. Dessert here shouldn’t be optional. It should be obligatory.
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If you read this at least a day before arriving, make sure you book a table near the window so you can enjoy your meal alongside a lovely Bay sunset.
[Featured Image: mochill_sf via Instagram]