COVID has turned my world (and the entire world) upside down. It’s shifted our way of doing normal tasks – like going to the grocery store, commuting to work and really, the list could go on. One of the biggest changes is the way we now approach travel. For the longest time I was hesitant about traveling – not wanting to infect people I encounter or vice versa. As the months went on, restlessness started to creep in and I needed a change of scenery.
So, without going TOO far out of our comfort zone, The Proper Hotel invited us to stay for a weekend to get a change of pace. Sharing some of my favorite spots and locations along the way:
Where We Stayed: The Proper Hotel
Tucked into San Francisco’s Mid-Market area, The Proper Hotel is a colorful haven to be inspired and recharge. Interiors designed by Kelly Wearstler, the entire space is quirky, modern and doesn’t take itself too seriously. Something I can get behind.
This was my first time staying AT the Proper, but I’ve frequented Charmaine’s – one of the chicest (dare I say most chic?) rooftop bars in SF. The entire upstairs rooftop is California cool with food offerings for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I’d recommend catching a sunset on the roof and ripping through their delicious fries and signature burger. Because sometimes, a girl’s just gotta nom.
They also have another restaurant called Villon that’s equally as chic with blue art deco accents. Pre-COVID they offered breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, but due to health regulations are keeping things safe until the order is lifted. Luckily, Tom and I were able to sneak a few photos in for good measure ❤️
Along with Villon, the rooms follow this creative pattern that you can get a proper (ahem) night’s sleep in. The bed’s were COMFY (and more space than ours at home) and I loved the dual patterned wallpaper that kept things funky. Also, the mini bar was stocked with local snacks and drinks!
What We Did: Galavant All Over SF
Since we haven’t been downtown since the start of COVID, we wanted to check out some of our favorite places along the Embarcadero and beyond. Here’s a highlight of a few places we checked out:
Seven Stills Distillery: One of my favorite places in SF, Seven Stills is the perfect place for lunch and a cocktail. They also have an epic outdoor area! Snag the oysters if you can, too. ❤️
Spark Social: This place is a food truck park, beer & sangria garden, and event space located in Mission Bay (and a quick walk from Seven Stills). They literally have every truck imaginable and so much space to roam and feel safe.
Mission Rock: Waterfront dining in SF is a dream and Mission Rock is a perfect place to be when the city is sunny and warm. Snag the oysters and the boozy blended drinks, sit outside and bask in that rare SF sunshine.
Hi Dive SF: The Hi Dive has evolved over time, but started in the 1930’s. Initially called The Boondocks, the now Hi Dive is the perfect place to sip a pint, catch a Giant’s game and sneak a peek at the beautiful Bay Bridge.
Verjus: I can’t say enough about this place. Tom and I frequent this place quite often and every time, we feel transported back to Paris. Their selection of wines is astonishing and every time we go, order a big ol’ cheese plate and a bottle of wine to consume. The staff is nice and knowledgable and there’s always just something a bit decadent about having sparkling wine and tasty cheese.