Globetrotting in Style: The Hidden Gems of San Francisco

Jill of Champagne for Everyday blog takes us off the beaten path in San Francisco!  Having moved to The City just over a year ago, I’m always looking for new, artistic haunts that are off the fresh and unique. Here are three of my favorites:

ONE - 398 Brasserie: French cuisine with a destroyed-modern vibe

Located just outside the buzz of Union Square, this French fusion restaurant features a cool, destroyed-vintage interior. Sleek furnishings and plush red booths contrast with battered plaster columns and a crumbling Victorian ceiling façade that looks as though it barely survived a demolition. Red table settings add a punchy modern touch, as does the black and white floral print behind the bar.

What to order: The Showgirl cocktail (scotch, amaro montenegro, vermouth, lemon, and hibiscus) and the grilled octopus.

TWO - The San Francisco Art Institute (SFAI): Contrasting architecture and unbeatable views

Just a few minutes from Lombard Street with its iconic hairpin turns and throngs of tourists, this beautiful location remains relatively unknown to the average traveler.  The Spanish villa inspired design of the original school harkens back to the 1870’s, and newer additions feature Spartan, angular shapes that contrast surprisingly well with the older part of the school. Lined with student paintings and exhibiting a stunning Diego Rivera mural, SFAI is also the alma mater of famous fashion photographer Annie Leibovitz.

THREE - Union Larder: An interior that’s a feast for the eyes + voted best wine bar in San Francisco by 7x7 Mag

Union Larder’s interior is refreshingly different from any other wine bar in San Francisco, with a design that hints of an industrial kitchen. At the same time, it’s made to feel warm and inviting with an impressive collection of unique epicurean treasures and vintage kitchen instruments that look like they belong in an old world European deli. The wine list is impressive, with a heavy emphasis on Californian blends – of course.

What to order: Any of the roses are refreshing and perfectly chilled, and a plate of charcuterie is a must.

Outfit details: Dress - French Connection, Shoes – Gentle Souls, Bag – Reed Krakoff, Sunglasses - Fendi

Photo credit: The talented Michael Moore

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