Potrero Hill
San Francisco’s Potrero Hill neighborhood has a pleasant feeling of isolation from the rest of the city. Perhaps this is because here the city’s famous fog tends to lift before the rest of the city slowly emerges, or maybe it’s because the more practical fact that the neighborhood is far away from any freeways or large industrial areas.
Once settled by gold diggers, the neighborhood was the original home to the San Francisco Giant’s in the 1950s and, later, to O.J. Simpson (still today the neighborhood has a somewhat interesting array of O.J. murals…).
Where it’s At
Potrero Hill is bounded by 16th, Third and Cesar Chaves streets and Potrero Avenue. Because the fog lifts here early, a daytime walk is an excellent way to tour the neighborhood.
What to See
The neighborhood has long been a destination for beer aficionados, as it has been the home of the Anchor Brewing Company since 1896. Stop by for a comprehensive, 90 minute tour that ends with a free tasting. Reservations are highly recommended. (1705 Mariposa St.)
Besides the beer, the other big draw here is the city skyline views. Climb to the top of the neighborhood’s namesake hill for otherworldly views.
Another little known fact about Potrero Hill is that it is home to San Francisco’s true most "crookedest" street. Although Lombard gets the attention, just try driving south on Vermont Street from McKinley Park and then we’ll talk…
Where to Eat
To support up and coming San Francisco chefs, Bistro 350 is a student run restaurant sponsored by the California Culinary Academy. It has a seasonal menu with a French bistro flare – with a dessert menu that changes daily (350 Rhode Island).
For coffee, Cup of Blues has a great selection of roasts, along with fresh baked goods (900 22nd Street). For a more ‘local’ cup of coffee, Farley’s is a neighborhood favorite (1315 18th St). For breakfast, try the omelets at Sally’s (300 De Haro St.), and for California cooking with a Mediterranean twist, Slow Club offers a dinner menu that changes every day.