An Evening in San Francisco

San Francisco is a city that always remains dream like in my head. If you have ever been fortunate enough to live there or spent a considerable amount of time there, you may understand what I am getting at. This incredible city is unlike any other in the US and that's what I love. I am writing this piece for the individual who is trying to get a feel for the city, an authentic feel that is. I am going to take you in the back alleys of San Francisco where you find that dreamy little Italian restaurant lit by little white lights, the one that makes you feel like you are in Florence or Rome. I am going to take you to the top of the world where you can get some of the best views of the city at twilight. Welcome to San Francisco.

For the best hotel in the city, Mandarin Oriental is the place. Mandarin Oriental offers tantalizing views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay, with room rates varying in price dependent upon season. Mandarin Oriental boasts two fantastic restaurants/lounges. Silks located inside The Mandarin has been voted one of the best places to dine in town and offers Pacific Rim and American fare. After a long day start the night off right by visiting the Mandarin Lounge, where you can enjoy the sounds of a light piano in the background while enjoying a world class cocktail. The hotel has unique touches, for instance a bowl of its signature blood red oranges await each guest in their rooms. After you are all checked in and ready to for cocktail hour we will head over to the Bank of America Center.

Mandarin Oriental
222 Sansome Street
San Francisco, CA 94104
Telephone: (415) 276-9888

Visit The Mandarin on the web at:
http://www.mandarinoriental.com/sanfrancisco/

The Bank of America Center is located in the heart of San Francisco's financial district, which is less than a 5 minute walk from The Mandarin. Take the elevator up to the lounge at the very top of the building and enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset over the bay. This view is one of the best in San Francisco and will be the most relaxing thing you do on your entire trip. After cocktail hour, catch a cab and head over to one of San Francisco's best kept secrets, Café Tiramisu.

Bank of America Center
555 California Street
San Francisco, CA

Café Tiramisu, is also located in San Francisco's financial district in a cute, quaint little alley way will leave you feeling like you just left Italy. Murals on the wall display the downfall of Pompeii and the food is inspired from the tastes of Northern Italy. With dishes ranging from pepper-crusted rib eye to Arugala salad with fresh mozzarella, Italian food lovers will think they have died and gone to heaven. It would be wise to call ahead to make reservations. The Café offers outdoor dining, as well as the option to dine down in the restaurants wine cellar which offers a wonderfully romantic mark. One thing to note is that there is no immediate parking, if you are coming from outside the city, take the BART. The closest parking garage to the Café is at Sutter and Stockton. Bon Appetite.

Café Tiramisu
28 Belden Place
San Francisco, CA
(Between Pine and Bush Streets)
Telephone: (415) 421-7044
Hours: Lunch 11am - 3pm
Dinner: 5pm-11pm M-Saturday

Visit the Café on the web at: www.cafetiramisu.com

San Francisco leaves its mark on everyone differently. One thing I can say in confidence is that it is one of the world's greatest cities. If I had another night back in San Francisco this is how I would spend it.