San Francisco Redux: Tech, Trails, and Tapas

San Francisco, a city I frequent, never ceases to amaze me with its unique blend of tech innovation, natural beauty, and culinary creativity. While challenges like homelessness persist, the city’s true essence remains vibrant and ever-evolving. In my San Francisco redux, I decided to ditch the usual tourist spots and try something different. I wanted to experience the city’s tech scene, explore its natural beauty, and indulge in its delicious food – a true San Francisco experience!

From driverless taxi rides to scenic hikes and some incredible food, here are some highlights from my tech-fueled, trail-walking, and tapas-tasting adventure in the Golden City.

A Waymo Ride: A Self-Driving Taxi Experience

Think driverless cars are still a thing of the future? Think again! 

Google’s Waymo, a driverless taxi service, is already operating in San Francisco, Phoenix, and Arizona, with plans to expand to Los Angeles and Austin. My journey through the busy streets of San Francisco was nothing short of surreal. After the first few nervous minutes, I watched in awe as the steering wheel turned by itself and the car seamlessly navigated through traffic.

The app-based service works like Uber or Lyft, but driverless. You summon a ride through your app, follow the instructions to hop in and enjoy the ride. The Waymo fleet primarily consists of Jaguar I-Pace electric SUVs, equipped with a sophisticated suite of sensors, cameras, and software to navigate roads autonomously. While there’s currently a waitlist for users to be onboarded to the app, I lucked out thanks to my daughter’s early access. If you find yourself in a city where Waymo operates, don’t miss the chance to experience a ride in one of their self-driving taxis. It won’t cost you much more than a taxi ride. You can check out my video here.

Presidio Tunnel Tops: A New Urban Oasis

If you haven’t visited San Francisco since 2022, you may want to add Presidio Tunnel Tops to the list of new things to experience. The 14-acre national park site is built over the Presidio Expressway tunnels and offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay.  Designed by the same firm that developed New York City’s High Line, the dog-friendly park features scenic overlooks, trails, picnic areas, and a children’s playground. Its convenient location provides easy access to Crissy Field and the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, making it perfect for exploring the Presidio’s extensive network of hiking and biking trails, including the Bay Area Ridge Trail and the California Coastal Trail. 

I spent an afternoon wandering the trails, walking the beach, and soaking in the vibe of the park and its visitors.

Japantown: A Taste of Japanese Culture

San Francisco’s Japantown, also known as Nihonmachi, is a vibrant cultural enclave and one of the oldest and largest Japantowns in the United States. Located in the Western Addition neighborhood, this six-block area boasts a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Today, it remains a hub for Japanese and Japanese American communities, offering a diverse array of shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions. 

Visitors can explore the popular Japan Center malls, wander through the Peace Plaza, admire the ornate Peace Pagoda, or catch a bite at one of the many eateries that dot the area. While smaller and less known to tourists than San Francisco’s sprawling Chinatown, Japantown provides a truly immersive experience of Japanese culture in the heart of San Francisco, with its lively atmosphere, authentic cuisine, and unique shops offering everything from traditional crafts to modern fashion. 

If your schedule permits, plan to spend an evening in Japantown exploring its ramen shops, sushi bars, and bakeries.

Tech Insider for a Day: Glimpse into a Google Office

Silicon Valley’s big tech companies are well-known for their unique office cultures, designed to foster innovation and collaboration. They offer a wide array of perks and amenities aimed at attracting and retaining top talent. Many of the Valley’s big names such as Salesforce, Google, Uber, X (Twitter), and Airbnb have made their mark on the city’s skyline and economy, attracting top talent from around the world.

One of the benefits of having friends in the tech industry is the chance to get an exclusive look inside their world. A visit to one of Google’s SF offices was a revelation on what it takes for companies to attract and retain top talent. It was everything you’d expect – colorful, open workspaces, lounges that felt like five-star hotels, complimentary gourmet meals, a sprawling gym, and a cafeteria with the most amazing views of the Bay Bridge and the Embarcadero. While the pandemic has led the shift to remote work, clearly the allure of these vibrant and amenity-rich offices remains a key factor in attracting the best and brightest to Silicon Valley. 

If you are interested in tech culture, a visit to a big-name company’s office is unlike any other touristy things you can do in the city.

Diverse Restaurant Experiences

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking to try something new, San Francisco’s diverse culinary scene has something to satisfy every craving. From upscale dining to casual eats, the city’s restaurants are constantly pushing the boundaries of culinary innovation. High-end establishments like China Live, a sprawling marketplace and dining destination, offer a multi-faceted experience, while dive bars like the HiDive provide a more laid-back atmosphere. For authentic ramen, sushi, and other Japanese delights, Japantown is a must-visit. San Francisco’s food scene is constantly evolving, ensuring there’s always something new to discover with each visit.

During my recent trip, I had the pleasure of sampling some of the city’s standout restaurants. Nari, a modern Thai establishment served bold and flavorful dishes that were tastefully different. Destapas, in the Mission District, offered a delightful journey through Spanish cuisine with its creative tapas and paellas. The Tailor’s Son, a charming neighborhood spot on Fillmore Street, was perfect for people watching over a glass of wine.

Fillmore Street Vibes

Fillmore Street in San Francisco is a haven for discerning shoppers and style enthusiasts. Stroll along this charming avenue and you’ll discover a curated collection of boutiques and specialty shops, each with its own unique flair. 

Whether you’re window shopping or looking to buy, Fillmore Street offers a unique and inviting experience, with a curated selection of shops to delight every visitor. Discover sustainable and stylish footwear at Rothy’s Fillmore, explore the world of tantalizing spices at Oaktown Spice Shop, and indulge in the timeless minimalist aesthetic of Cuyana’s high-quality leather goods and apparel. And for the discerning coffee lover, a stop at Blue Bottle Coffee for their renowned artisanal brews is a must. Fillmore Street captures the essence of San Francisco’s unique style and culture, making it a must-visit destination.

The absence of overwhelming tourist crowds on Fillmore Street allows for a more authentic experience, revealing glimpses of local life and a true sense of community. It’s a place to slow down, savor the moment, and soak up the essence of San Francisco’s vibrant spirit.

San Francisco is a city that never stops reinventing itself.  Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a foodie, or just someone who loves exploring new places, there’s always something exciting happening in this city. I hope my San Francisco redux gives you a glimpse into my trip and inspires you to plan your own SF adventure. 

If you have any questions or want to know more, feel free to drop a comment below!