Anchor Oyster Bar in San Francisco is a 22-seat Castro counter that has served Dungeness, cioppino and clam chowder the same way since 1977.
OrderThe cioppino in season, with a side of garlic bread.
TipNo bookings; arrive at 16:30 for the early seating or after 21:00 when the line thins.
Frances in San Francisco is Melissa Perello's Castro neighbourhood room, holding a Michelin star with a 40-seat dining room and a wine list priced.
OrderApplewood-smoked bacon beignets with maple chive cream.
TipReservations open 30 days out at 10:00; the bar room takes walk-ins from 17:30.
Cafe du Nord sits in the basement of the Swedish American Hall on Market Street, a 320-capacity SF room booking indie, jazz and singer-songwriter sets.
TipThe room is low-ceilinged and intimate; sightlines are best from the back bar. Pre-show dinner upstairs at the hall gets you in first.
Twin Peaks Tavern in SF's Castro opened its plate-glass windows in 1972 as the first US gay bar to let the sidewalk see in, still drawing the daytime drink.
TipAfternoon at the front window is the social anchor of the neighbourhood. Cash bar runs quicker than card on busy Saturdays.
Hi Tops on Market Street in SF's Castro opened in 2012 as the city's first gay sports bar, with TV walls, drag brunches and a garage-style room that fills.
TipWarriors and Giants nights stack the bar three deep; the back room runs quieter. Drag brunch on Saturday and Sunday packs by 12:00.
Lookout sits at SF's 16th and Market with a wraparound balcony over the Castro intersection, pouring frozen cocktails and running Sunday afternoon theme.
TipSunday afternoon Jock dance party packs the upstairs floor. The balcony rail is the prized view; turn up before 16:00 to secure it.
Day trip · 8 hours
Enjoy a private drive through Napa Valley and visit four renowned wineries. Admire scenic vineyards while choosing your own tasting experiences at each stop.
Private tour · 8 hours
Enjoy the expertise of a personal guide as you explore renowned wineries or boutique family-run establishments. Customize your itinerary, savor premium wines, and lear...
10 hours
Depart from San Francisco, charter a private car for a day trip, visit at least two wineries (customized route), taste the special California wines, and be sent to the...