Even in California, it can be tough to shake that wet winter chill that lingers for months on end. Swathe yourself in down blankets and other fuzzy fabrics perfect for hunkering down at home, or wrap up in all the warm essentials you need to brave the Bay Area's great outdoors during the cold season.
A style manifesto: When it comes to style, if compromising is a virtue, then we’d rather be bad. These days, we want exactly what we want, something made just for us. We don’t want to see it strutting past us in the club, making the rounds on MUNI or kicking it in the park. We want it to fit our bodies, our personalities and our budgets. And we won’t take no for an answer. Luckily, we don’t have to.
From the kookiness of Bay to Breakers to the cutting-edge culture of the San Francisco International Film Festival, find SF's top 10 things to do this spring.
So you finally got that bachelor's degree, but you're not ready to hang up the party hat just because you've traded in your college-logo sweats for pressed khakis from nine to five? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Find like-minded colleagues at these recent-grad-friendly bars.
Some say presentation is everything, and these local restaurants have gone all out to create dessert menus featuring some of the most awe-inspiring, unusually shaped sweets around. From "s'more nachos" to ice-cream sushi, these desserts amuse diners with their artful, entrée-like presentations.
Photo courtesy of Ben Demey
Whether you’re looking to spice up your relationship or tantalize a new date, sexy foods are always a winner. But Aphrodite works in mysterious ways--you might be surprised by some of the world's most renowned aphrodisiacs. Since you probably won’t make it to Central America to collect the roots of a Socratea exorrhiza, here’s a list of easily accessible aphrodisiacs sure to tempt your taste buds and your date.
------------------------------------------------------------
Photo credits: Couple by Shutterstock/Diego Cervo; Arugula by Shutterstock/Magdalena Kucova; Balut courtesy Marshall Astor - Food Pornographer; Chocolate courtesy Ghirardelli; Ginseng by Shutterstock/Jeannette Lambert; Truffles by Shutterstock/Mr. Mario; Produce by Shutterstock/L F File
A wet day is enough to keep most from leaving the house. While the occasional day snuggled in front of the TV can be a welcome reprieve from a chaotic life, too many can leave you with a bad case of cabin fever. Add some sunshine to that gloomy forecast with these activities that defy the lazy reputation of rainy days.
From high-class hotels to red-carpet restaurants, our editors list the top spots in San Francisco to meet a millionaire.
First, the bad news: People cheat. But here’s the good news: Most cheaters are idiots. After all, what other explanation could there be for sabotaging a relationship using the most cowardly, self-centered and--we dare say--unimaginative break-up strategy in the book? And precisely because cheaters are such idiots, they’re also easy to catch--if, of course, you know where to look.
Whoever said there is no such thing as a free lunch never visited San Francisco. Between all of the shops, factories and markets handing out free tastes, there is a well-balanced feast just waiting to be devoured--one tiny bite at a time. Keep these places in mind for those moments when your blood sugar is running as low as your cash flow.
Casual encounters don’t often lead to greater things. But for some, it can be the beginning of a romantic relationship. Here are a few brunch spots, hangover helpers and daytime date activities for when you want an "overnight" to become more than just a one-night stand.
Everyone knows that body heat is the best heat--especially when it comes to combating that San Francisco chill. While the hardwood tables and free-standing stools at most restaurants and bars offer you canoodling couples little refuge from the fog, these snuggle-friendly spots, with their comfy couches, big booths and fireside seating, provide the perfect setting to get your date's temperature rising.
As any shopper on a budget knows, finding the right outfit to ring in the New Year is nearly impossible. Sure, there are plenty of sparkly options--but for less than $25? Now, that’s tough. However, I’m always up for a good challenge. So, I traveled far and wide (well, to the Haight and Union Square) and found some awesome pieces perfect for a huge club bash or an intimate house party.
Not for the faint of heart (or liver), these drinks don’t just pack a punch--they’re served in punch-bowl portions. But there’s no need to spike these king-sized cocktails: Most contain multiple types of liquor along with tropical juices. Or, for less-fruity fun, try a two-liter boot of beer. No matter what your poison, there's surely enough to share ... but that doesn't mean you have to.
Photo courtesy of Magerleague
Covered by a blanket of mist courtesy of the nearby Pacific, the Sunset neighborhood offers (relatively) affordable prices and a small-town feel for families and young professionals. The district, once comprised of mostly sand dunes, is also home to an increasing number of destination-worthy restaurants, from Ethiopian and Chinese to American and vegetarian. Here, we spotlight just a few of these places guaranteed to make a trip into the fog worth your while.
