Already done the Haight-Ashbury thing? Then maybe it’s time you discovered the oft-overlooked historical hood that is Japantown. Centrally located with an authentic vibe that doesn’t scream tourist trap, J-Town is a great little six-block, ethnic enclave to explore during your next San Fran weekend getaway. —Sarah Rowland
stay. When it comes to keeping it central, Kimpton Buchanan Hotel is the best place to set up camp. Situated where J-Town, Pacific Heights and the Fillmore intersect, this Zen-inspired boutique retreat is basically the axis of chic. Architecturally, the property is an airy testament to pared-down sophistication. Likewise, the rooms are designed with comfort, convenience and style in mind—nothing extraneous. The overall vibe is very warm and inviting, too. After a hard day of eating and shopping, you can enjoy happy hour with free wine and beer in the lobby. Stay and get to know fellow travellers, or take your vino up to your room and decompress before you set out for the night. (Photo by Laure Joliet) thebuchananhotel.com
shop. The Fillmore strip is chock-a-block with brand-name boutiques that sell clothing you can pick up (or order) in any major city. But, if you’re looking to score a unique piece (without breaking the bank), then Crossroads Trading Co. is your best bet. A “gently used” store like no other, this treasure trove is packed with racks of mint-condition dresses, date tops and shoes … so many glorious shoes. This is not somewhere you just "pop" into—give yourself a good hour to sort through every section. Don’t forget the previously loved, premium denim section (spotted: Paige Jeans for $18). Chances are you’ll walk out of the there with your budget intact and a funky little sumthin sumthin that provides ample opportunity to smugly say the words, “Oh this? I got it in San Francisco.” crossroadstrading.com
savour. The Grove Fillmore—a funky lodge-style cafe complete with great outside seating—is a great choice for a mimosa-fuelled brunch. For lunch, there are plenty of hip little noodle houses—if you’ve got a hankering for ramen with a side of octopus balls, J-Town’s got you covered. There’s also no shortage of hibachi grills here—but be warned, they can be surprisingly family friendly (i.e., screaming kid central). Don’t get us wrong, the food is amazing, especially if you’re on a family vacay. But if you’re on a romantic or girl getaway, make sure you ask about the ambience before booking a table. thegrovesf.com
sing. Naturally, the number 1 form of entertainment in Japantown is karaoke. But not all karaoke bars are created equally. Some of the campier joints offer a perfect spotlight to showcase your talents, but the wait list to hit the stage is horrendous. Then there are those quaint dives with zero waitlist—so yes, you can sing to your heart’s content, but it’s going to be to an empty room. Pagoda is the best of both worlds: short waits in-between songs and a captive audience. Bonus: this underground hole-in-the-wall is only a few steps away from the Buchanan Hotel! yelp.com
side trip. If you feel like busting out your glad rags, make an evening of the iconic Sir Francis Drake Hotel in Union Square. Start with a classic cocktail at the opulent Bar Drake: a regal launching pad for a night to remember. This hidden gem is reminiscent of a Gatsby-esque speak easy but not in a kitschy way at all—just first-class swank all the way. With your appetite sufficiently whetted, it’s time for a divine dining experience at the Drake’s Scala Bistro. This stunning, newly renovated Parisian-style room offers contemporary takes on classic French and Italian dishes. Word to the wise: don’t pass up on dessert. Each one is worth every calorie. Then it’s time to dance it off at the Drake’s Starlight Room on the 21st Floor. This is one of those rare d-floors where clubbers, hipsters and seniors celebrating milestone anniversaries alike come to get down. And who can blame them? With decadent lounge décor, a sweet mix of multigenerational hip-hop beats and (as the name suggests) a starlit view, there’s no better place to shake, shimmy and shine! sirfrancisdrake.com
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