My Oakland local Angela (a.k.a. “Aunt Angela”) introduces me to the best food in Oakland! The city is full of edible entrepreneurship, and I am more than happy to stimulate this growing economy (and fill my belly!). There were so many to choose from, but these are my top four best restaurants you must visit in Oakland.
Bakesale Betty (51st and Telegraph)
The only thing you’ll find here is a delicious fried chicken sandwich and an assortment of baked goods. Bakesale Betty is known for her strawberry shortcake, but you can get cookies and pies too! There’s no indoor seating at this Oakland restaurant so you’ll have to take a seat outside and eat on top of her crafty ironing board tables.
Flip n Soul (East 21st and 14th Avenue)
This “Filipino N Soul” Oakland food spot has changing daily menus and local favorites such as lobster tail and salmon, fried chicken n’ shrimp, chicken adobo, and $1 lumpia. Keep in mind that they’re only open Tuesday through Friday from 2-9 p.m.! And if you’re looking for roasted crab, Roni “The Crab God” is making his specials on Thursdays.
Everett and Jones BBQ (Jack London Square)
Since 1973, this family run BBQ joint has been serving up the best BBQ in Oakland. Dorothy Everett worked part-time tending to a restaurant’s smoke pit, and eventually decided to start her own barbeque restaurant. Everett and Jones BBQ now has six locations throughout the Bay Area! Mashed potatoes, beef links, cornbread, brisket…after eating here, you’ll need someone to roll you out.
Home of Chicken and Waffles (Jack London Square)
Yes, the original Home of Chicken and Waffles has been serving for over 50 years. Satisfy all your soul food needs in this one spot! Try the Lord BJ or the Gordon’s Bank for iconic fried chicken, mac n; cheese, and of course waffles.
If you’re still hungry, I recommend staying in Jack London Square for more Oakland restaurants, or cross the bridge into San Francisco for even more food options!
San Francisco is full of attractions, colorful people, and iconic bridges, but one of my favorite things about this city is the San Francisco restaurants! But we couldn’t fit them all in one day. I followed two locals all over the city to find out where I can eat the best food in San Francisco. Our idea was to try one or two of the best menu items of food in the top restaurants as a progressive meal so we wouldn’t get too full (though day two was more of a struggle!). Here are our recommendations from our second day of eating all the best food in San Francisco.
Mr. Holmes Bakehouse was started by a 25-year-old with a tumor, and faced with the prospect of death before getting surgery, he decided a bakery was the best way to spend his potentially last days on Earth. And thank goodness he lived – I’m a huge fan of pastries. It was the first time I experienced a “cruffin,” which is a mix of croissant and muffin stuffed with cream, another must eat in SF.
Good Luck Dim Sum (Clement between 8th and 9th Avenue)
You can sit down at this dim sum hotspot, but most take it to go. You’ll get a pink slip that lists all the types of dim sum for you to choose, and then they pack it up for you! If you’re visiting San Francisco on a budget, this is a great deal.
Tartine Bakery (Mission)
Tartine is known for their breads, but they also make incredibly flavorful, rich pastries. And if you’re looking for a hearty, rustic style lunch, they also make sandwiches to order. I indulged in a croissant, pain au chocolat, and a “morning bun” with cinnamon sugar and candied orange zest.
Bi-Rite Ice Cream (Mission)
Another parlor with cravable creations, Bi-Rite Creamery is making small batch ice cream like black sesame, salted caramel, and cream cheese carrot cake. The balsamic strawberry flavor was created as a solution to food waste, so order a scoop and save the planet!
Swan Oyster Depot (Nob Hill)
Another must eat in San Francisco, Swan Oyster Depot has been serving up fresh seafood since 1903. The narrow restaurant only has seating at its counter, so don’t expect to belly up with a party much larger than 4. As a seafood lover, you will be happy with pretty much anything you order. But if the uni (sea urchin) is available, you have to try it!
Boba Guys (Fillmore)
This bubble tea spot is taking this beverage to the next level! Two friends decided to open a boba tea place after their favorite shop closed, so they decided to open one that was bigger, better, and committed to sustainability without compromising great flavor. While they have all kinds of rotating specials, the jasmine milk tea is a solid choice.
BONUS: Sunday Bird (Fillmore)
While you’re waiting for your boba tea, step through the back door for Korean BBQ fried chicken at Sunday Bird!
Barvale (Divisadero at Grove)
If you enjoy creative cocktails, go to Barvale for happy hour! And even if you don’t, they offer a wide selection of wines, beers, and non-alcholic specialties. While you’re sipping away, order some tapas to keep your drink company, like pimentos (fried peppers) or gambas.
4505 Burgers & BBQ (Divisadero between Grove and Fulton)
Just down the street from Barvale is 4505 Burgers and BBQ – a 180-degree turn from Spanish tapas. The restaurant has one of the few wood-fired BBQ pits left in the area, so treat yourself to some high-quality meat cooked right. We had the grass-fed double cheeseburger, which was delicious, but could’ve been even better with bacon.
Tres (South Beach)
At Tres, you’ll learn that tequila is so much more than woo girls on spring break. Treat yourself to a proper margarita, or if you really want to get educated, ask for a tequila flight. They also have great bar snacks, lunch, and dinner options.
Golden Boy Pizza (North Beach)
Unlike a triangular slice you may find anywhere else, Golden Boy serves up hot, cheesy squares of pizza delight. This pizza joint was opened in 1978, and still serves up some of the best pizza in San Francisco. I recommend a slice of the pepperoni, the sausage, and the pesto to get started.
Almanac Tap Room & Beer Company (Closed)
UPDATE: The Alamanac Tap Room closed in January 2019, but you can still find their beers in grocery stores and markets throughout the United States!
Trick Dog (Mission)
Depending on when you visit Trick Dog, their menu will have a completely different inspiration! When I went, the cocktail menu was inspired by The Joy of Cooking, and included 13 cocktails that were collaborative efforts with chefs from around San Francisco. Each menu is designed by a different artist, and copies are sold to benefit various local organizations.
Super Duper Burger (Multiple Locations)
Super Duper Burger makes high quality burgers while reducing their environmental impact by using ingredients sourced throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. The mini bacon cheeseburger is a perfect morsel of burger goodness. I’d say this isn’t just some of the best food in San Francisco, but some of the best burgers in the Bay.
Ippudo Ramen (SoMa)
This modern-designed restaurant has dominated the ramen scene since the mid-1990s. Ippudo Ramen is best known for their tonkotsu pork broth ramen, but they also have vegetarian ramen options, pork buns, fried tofu, and rice dishes. Come with an appetite!
Bake (Westfield San Francisco Center)
BAKE Cheese Tart is a growing phenomenon in Japan, and has its first (and only!) United States location in the Westfield San Francisco Center. These cheese tarts look like little custard pies, but the filling is a light mousse made from cream cheese. I recommend the cheese and strawberry tarts for a little extra sweetness.
San Francisco is full of attractions, colorful people, and iconic bridges, but one of my favorite things about this city is the San Francisco restaurants! But we couldn’t fit them all in one day. I followed two locals all over the city to find out where I can eat the best food in San Francisco. Our idea was to try one or two of the best menu items of food in the top restaurants as a progressive meal so we wouldn’t get too full. So here were our recommendations from our first day of eating all the best food in San Francisco.
San Francisco Fish Company (Ferry Building)
San Francisco Fish Company is committed to sustainable fishing. As a result, their daily menu depends on the season, the weather, and the fishing restrictions. But you know you’re eating the best, environmentally friendly fish! If you’re a fan of oysters, stop by to get freshly shucked oysters for $2 each. Eat them plan or top them with a mignonette or cocktail sauce.
Humphry Slocombe (Ferry Building)
Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream opened its first location 2008. You can sample every flavor they offer, but we highly recommend Secret Breakfast: bourbon ice cream with cornflakes! You can also find pints of their ice cream in select shops throughout the Bay Area.
Turtle Tower (Civic Center)
The Vietnamese pho you know probably comes with a side plate of bean sprouts, Thai basil, cilantro, and limes. But at Turtle Tower, pho is served the northern way, where owner Steven Nghia Pham is from. So of course I had to get a bowl of pho noodle soup (and you should, too).
The Chairman (Food Truck)
UPDATE: The brick and mortar location on Larkin has closed, but the food truck is still operating. The Chairman is serving up Chinese steamed baos with a variety of toppings. We chose the pork belly with no regrets.
Brenda’s French Soul Food (Polk Street and Eddy)
The next San Francisco restaurant was definitely a favorite for me. The menu reflects Brenda’s upbringing on the West bank of New Orleans, with a little French accent here and some extra Cajun flair there. A must eat in SF, Brenda’s French Soul Food has shrimp n’ grits, crawfish beignets, gumbo, and so much more! But they don’t take reservations, so either show up early or be ready to wait.
Bob’s Donuts (Nob Hill)
San Francisco has seen hundreds of restaurants and shops come and go, but Bob’s Donuts has been a cornerstone since the 1960s. They make donuts the way they’ve always made them: no fuss, just fried. Bob’s Donuts is known for their apple fritter and their novelty giant donut, but we opted for a glazed donut – simply perfect.
Nick’s Crispy Tacos (Russian Hill)
Nick’s Crispy Tacos is a great place to gather with friends and watch the game. But if you’re not into sports, they’ve still got great food! Their tacos are so loaded, they use two tortillas to keep all the contents together. We chose the fried fish taco and the carne asada taco – I couldn’t pick a favorite!
Smuggler’s Cove (Gough Street at McAllister)
It may seem kitsch, but this pirate-themed bar is truly a fun time with great cocktails! The rum, the tiki decor, the fresh ingredients, and the exotic cocktails at Smuggler’s Cove are a great escape from the busy streets of San Francisco. I recommend the Trade Winds: rum, coconut cream, apricot liqueur, and London dry gin.
House of Prime Rib (Nob Hill)
When you visit San Francisco, make sure to reserve a table weeks in advance at House of Prime Rib. This traditional English-style restaurant doesn’t follow food trends – it’s been a San Francisco establishment since the 1940s, serving the best quality beef available. For $45.95, you can get a House of Prime Rib cut of steak, creamed corn or creamed spinach, mashed or baked potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and “the salad bowl.” And be sure to bring your appetite: if you can finish your entire steak, they’ll offer you smaller pieces of steak for free to top you off.
San Diego tourism offers so much to do in and around the city! This is a perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities, so take advantage of this weather by visiting all the beaches and attractions you can. And there are so many fun places to eat in San Diego, but my locals and I managed to pick the best restaurants for you, as well as the best attractions and places to visit.
Best Restaurants in San Diego and Carlsbad
Park 101
Park 101 has everything you may be craving in the sunshine: salads, BBQ, tacos, ice cream, acai bowls, and brunch. Plus, they have kid friendly meals for families and a cozy rooftop lounge with fire pits.
Señor Grubby’s
Just a few blocks from the Carlsbad State Beach, Señor Grubby’s is serving up great tacos and cocktails. And if you arrive before 11:30, you can enjoy their breakfast menu, including chorizo and eggs, huevos rancheros, and a variety of breakfast burritos.
Miss B’s Coconut Club
If you’re looking for that Caribbean beach vibe, Miss B’s Coconut Club is the place to be! Enjoy cocktails and burgers as big as your face, as well as chicken n’ waffles, sandwiches, fresh seafood, and salads.
Brigantine
The restaurant may have an upscale vibe, but this is San Diego – everyone is welcome like family! With a few locations throughout the San Diego area, you can enjoy their oysters, fish tacos, fresh catch of the day, or a surf-and-turf platter.
Beach Hut Deli in Gaslamp Quarter
You’ll find all types of San Diego restaurants in the Gaslamp Quarter, but Beach Hut Deli was one of my favorite fun places to eat in downtown San Diego. Sometimes when you’re a tourist, you just want a good sandwich: one that’s better than homemade, but still has that personal touch.
Carlsbad is a suburb of San Diego, and is easily reachable by car. You can spend your day playing beach volleyball or just lay out and enjoy the sunshine. The weather averages in the mid 60’s and some of the best restaurants in Carlsbad San Diego are right near the coastline.
La Jolla
When you visit San Diego, you have to see the barking seals in La Jolla, one of the most popular San Diego tourism attractions in that area. We joke that seals are just puppies of the ocean, but when the Spanish first approached the California shores in the 19th century, they thought the barking seals sounded like wolves.
Mission Beach and Belmont Park
You can easily spend an entire afternoon at Belmont Park at Mission Beach. Belmont Park has carnival rides, shopping, and tons of food options! And depending on when you visit, they also host concerts and special events.
Pacific Beach
For terrific people watching, head down to Pacific Beach. Bicyclists, joggers, roller-bladers, skaters, and power walkers populate the sidewalks, so stay alert! And if you’re concerned about swimming in the big blue, North Pacific Beach (from Tourmaline to Crystal Pier) has swimming areas with lifeguard supervision. The boardwalk is full of colorful people, so throw some shades on and join the party!
Best Things to Do in San Diego
Balboa Park
Balboa Park has all types of San Diego tourism attractions including museums, the Japanese Friendship Garden, performing arts, and the San Diego Zoo. You could spend an entire day at Balboa Park and not see the whole place!
USS Midway Museum
The USS Midway Museum has on-going installations as well as seasonal events and temporary exhibits. Although the USS Midway was commissioned a week after the end of World War II, the aircraft carrier played a large role during the Cold War, and was decommissioned in 1992.
Throughout the museum (which is in the ship), you can learn about the daily life of the crew and sit in a cockpit of a WWII era aircraft. On special occasions, you can attend a concert or a screening of the 80s classic Top Gun. And if you want a really immersive, unique experience, they also host youth and family overnight programs!
Check out more related videos below to plan your perfect California vacation!
I may be a bit biased, but this may be the best video about one of the best cities in California ever. Sacramento has an international airport (SMF), as well as their own professional sports teams like the Sacramento Kings (basketball), Sacramento River Cats (minor league baseball), and Sacramento Republic (soccer). The capital of California states is home to half a million people, which means there is a diverse variety of things to do in Sacramento. I’ll show you the best places to visit, including my favorite Sacramento restaurants, nightlife, and attractions. Watch now to learn what the locals like!
First things first though: we like to call Sacramento “Sac” or “Sactown.” so don’t be surprised if you hear locals referring to the city this way.
What to Do in Old Sacramento
Sacramento made a name for itself back in the 19th century as a top destination for the gold rush. Many sailors would abandon their ships in the San Francisco harbor to find new opportunities in Sacramento. Today, old Sacramento still gives you that old timey feeling with horse carriage rides, historic wooden buildings, and even treasure hunting.
Old Sacramento is situated on the Sacramento river waterfront, where you’ll find an abundance of restaurants, entertainment, and attractions.
Delta King
The Delta King is a 265-foot river boat that has been converted into a hotel and restaurant. It originally made trips between San Francisco and Sacramento, serving dinner items such as a sirloin steak for $1.00, prime rib for 65¢, and chicken gumbo for 25¢.
The fair is a bit more expensive than that, but you are still invited to spend the night on the boat! You can also book a Suspects Comedy Mystery – an interactive dinner show, complete with crimes to solve!
Central Pacific Railroad Passenger Station
If you love trains (or even just like them a little), check out this reconstructed train depot! You can see vintage locomotives and railroad cars, and learn more about train travel in the 19th century.
Things to Do in Downtown Sacramento
Just a short walk from Old Sacramento is Downtown Sacramento. It’s the new hub for next level entertainment, fresh local foods, and energy efficient experiences.
Golden 1 Center
During basketball season you can catch a Sacramento King’s game here, but you can also see a concert almost every weekend. And what’s especially unique about Golden 1 Center is their commitment to protecting the environment.
The arena received the highest level of global recognition for environmentally conscious buildings and organizations. The arena plans to source 90% of the food and drink concessions from businesses and farms within 150 miles of the arena.
Cal Expo
Whenever you visit, there will be something happening at Cal Expo! (Kind of like fests in Germany…) They host cultural celebrations, as well as the California State Fair in July. In the spring, you can tour the farms. And you can attend all kinds of concerts throughout the year. Plus, you can visit Raging Waters water park during the summer!
What to Do Around Sacramento
Folsom Lake
If you’re visiting during the late spring or summer, go to Folsom Lake for water sports, camping, grilling, and hiking! You’ll find yourself surrounded by locals soaking up the sunshine. Before you visit, you may want to check the state park’s website to reserve a group picnic site, or to check up on any construction.
Thunder Valley Casino & Resort
Just a short drive northeast of the city, Thunder Valley Casino & Resort is an easy weekend getaway from Sac. If you’re not interested in gambling, they have a golf course, a spa, concerts, shows, three restaurants, a buffet, and a food court.
Where to Eat in Sacramento
Midtown Farmer’s Market
On Saturdays you can visit the Midtown Farmer’s Market for local produce and artisan goods. There’s even a kid’s play area and live music, and they occasionally have chef demos as well.
Beach Hut Deli
This deli is not just a favorite of mine, but a destination for all Sactown locals! This franchise serves up made-to-order sandwiches with the highest quality ingredients available. My personal favorite is the Surfin Bird: turkey, avocado, bacon, and cream cheese with all the regular toppings.
Does this restaurant look familiar? I also recommend it in my San Diego video!
Mikuni Sushi
The first Mikuni location opened in Fair Oaks in 1987, when sushi wasn’t nearly as trendy. Today, the restaurant chain has eight thriving locations! But they offer more than just sushi – they also have noodle soups, salads, and larger main dishes.
Bacon and Butter
Named after the two best sources of fat, you have to show up early for breakfast at Bacon and Butter! Pancakes, loaded avocado toast, and chicken n’ waffles are just a few of the delicious menu options.
Broderick 1893
This burger joint started as a food truck and opened its first brick and mortar location in 2012. But beyond burgers, Broderick 1893 is also experimenting with combinations like banh mi fries and bacon mac n’ cheese. It’s also serving up vegetarian and vegan burger options, so everyone can enjoy themselves!
Punch Bowl Social
Punch Bowl Social has it all: great food, drinks, bowling, karaoke, VR games, billiards, an arcade, and more! This is a great place to unwind and catch up with friends, or to pre-game before heading out into Downtown Sacramento.
There are so many things to do in Sacramento – we hope you get a chance to our enjoy our city! And check out the videos below to finish planning your California vacation
If you’re searching for an affordable Californian vacation, complete with beautiful beaches, good food, parks to visit, historical sites to see, and weekend activities, we suggest you visit San Luis Obispo County! From downtown to the beach, SLO has plenty of events and restaurants to keep you entertained, including the famous Bubble Gum Alley. San Luis Obispo County offers all the highlights of California on a budget without compromise.
Things to Do in San Luis Obispo
Mission Plaza
In an effort to evangelize the Native Americans, Spanish missionaries built 21 outposts (called “missions”) along the California coast in the mid-18th century. This California Mission Trail now draws thousands of tourists every year to see this preserved part of California history.
One such mission is in San Luis Obispo. Concerts are held in Mission Plaza every Friday night during the summer. Get a taste of the local music scene in the middle of downtown SLO!
Bubble Gum Alley
Leave your mark in San Luis Obispo with some chewed gum! It’s not the most sanitary work of art, but it’s still cool to see. Contribute if you dare…
Cal Poly
San Luis Obispo may not have their own professional sports teams, but anyone can catch a Cal Poly game! And shout out to the Cal Poly basketball coach for sharing his championship trophy with our audience.
San Luis Obispo Beaches
Morro Bay, Pismo, Avila…you really can’t go wrong with any beach on this coast line. All you need is a towel and a cooler full of provisions to enjoy yourself.
Sunset Drive-In Movie Theater
Enjoy the beautiful weather while watching a movie – for cheap! Drive-in movies have a lower ticket price than indoor movie screenings, so save a couple bucks and catch the latest blockbuster.
What to Eat in San Luis Obispo
Novo Restaurant
Novo offers great Californian cuisine, from seafood to nachos to charcuterie. When the weather is nice (which is almost always), you can enjoy dining on the patio.
Black Sheep
Loaded with cheese, sour cream, tomatoes, red onion, and more, these nachos are not meant to be shared! You can also occasionally catch live music on the patio.
Cowboy Cookie and Ice Cream
This is not your typical bakery – just cookies and ice cream! Cowboy Cookie and Ice Cream has been a staple of Downtown San Luis Obispo for over 30 years, using the same recipes and freshest ingredients around. You can get an ice cream sandwich or a scoop in a cookie cup, made with local brand San Luis Obispo Maid Ice Cream.
Woodstock’s Pizza
Dishing up late night pies, my locals and I devoured the SLO Classic: pepperoni, sausage, black olives, mushrooms and onion slices. And while you wait for your food, enjoy shuffleboard, beer pong, or any game in the arcade. This local pizza joint is great for groups!
Dorn’s Cafe
If you love shellfish, don’t leave California without trying dungeness crab! You can get a dungeness crab cocktail at Dorn’s for $16.50, as well as a bowl of their award-winning clam chowder for $6.50.
San Luis Obispo Bars
Sidecar Cocktails
They’re mixing up great cocktails, like a daiquiri with a splash of rosé. It’s a favorite spot for San Luis Obispo locals, so be sure to arrive early (they don’t accept reservations)!
The Frog n’ Peach Pub
Frog n’ Peach Pub is your destination for live music! You can find reggae, psycho-billy, rock, or anything in-between on any given night.
Barrelhouse Brewing Company
Underneath Mike’s Barber Shop, Barrelhouse Brewing Company is brewing small-batch beers that are only available in their taproom. They do, however, offer a limited variety of beers in grocery stores.
Check out more videos to finish planning your California dream vacation!
Los Angeles: an iconic California city, known for bad traffic, big media, and beautiful beaches. I only had 12 hours to enjoy Los Angeles, but I made the most of my time! Here’s what I recommend if you only have a short time to explore L.A.
Hermosa Beach
Hermosa Beach has wide sidewalks full of bicyclists and rollerbladers, and the beach itself has volleyball nets, sun bathers, and the occasional street vendor. If you wanted, you could spend all 12 hours of your time in L.A. just walking, drinking, and eating along the beach.
Silvio’s Brazilian BBQ
Since 2003, this Brazilian BBQ restaurant has been serving up all kinds of grilled delights. They offer salads, sides, sandwiches, platters, and meat by the pound! At 11 a.m. I treated myself to a beer and a picanha bahia bowl while watching the Brazil game – because why not?
Local Bike Tour
Los Angeles is actually a great city for a bike tour because it’s flat with wide roads. And when I was tired of biking, we stopped for tacos at the corner of Hobart and Pico.
After that, we picked up some beers and headed to L.A. River. As you may imagine, L.A. doesn’t have much nature. This river is a large stream of water flowing between railroad tracks and some warehouses. It’s a beautiful ride, in its own city-dwelling way.
And even though we had to carry our bikes for part of the route, our second beer spot was Elysian Park, which has a stunning view of the city. The concrete jungle has its charms, I’ll give it that.
Guisados
And of course, the tour brought be back to the heart of L.A.: a taco joint.
If you only have a day in L.A., this is the way to do it! See more videos below to plan your California dream vacation
