7 reasons to visit San Fran's Nob Hill
Photo, Rosemary Counter.
San Francisco: Nob Hill
Modern rooms
Nob Hill was named after the Central Pacific Railroad's “Big Four” tycoons (or “Nobs”, slang for a person of wealth and high status) who all built their mansions here in the 1800s. Three of the Big Four are now best known for the swank grande hotels named after them — but don't miss the modern, tech-savvy boutiques popping up in between. The Hotel Abri has an iPad wall of all the newest and best travel apps for visitors.
The trend setters
At the foot of Nob Hill is a shopping district that would make any girl squeal: in 2.6 acres, Union Square boasts a Macy's, Barney's, Nordstorm, Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale's. For the budget-conscious traveller, head over to Loehmann's to find designer discounts and DSW (Designer Shoe Warehouse) for the best in affordable and stylish footwear.
Up above
A cable car will get you there in mere minutes, but it's well worth the half-hour hike to the top of Nob Hill if you want to explore the charming side streets and gorgeous San Franciscan real estate. There's a splattering of cute cafes, such as Gallery Cafe, where you can stop in for a coffee (plus croissant or panini) in the shade. Also in the hood is the modern Sugar Cafe — try the limeaide! — and the aptly named Another Cafe.
Community space
Modelled after Paris' Notre Dame, Grace Cathedral is traditional in appearance only; the church is completely inclusive, offers yoga and meditation, and even screens The Hunchback of Notre Dame on New Year's Eve. Be sure to walk one of two labyrinths, indoor and out, for calmness and serenity.
Happy hour
At Mason and California Street sits the historic Fairmont Hotel, the vanguard of the chain, where rooms are characteristically swank. Don't miss the landmark Tonga Room, a jungle-themed tiki bar built atop an indoor swimming pool, where the house band plays atop a floating barge. Nearby on Geary Street, catch the latest show at the acclaimed A.C.T. (American Conservatory Theatre), which serves as both a theatre company and acting school. Notable students include Nicolas Cage, Denzel Washington, Annette Bening, Elizabeth Banks and Chris Pine.
San-Francisco-Allegro
Don't be fooled by the Allegro Romano's humble abode; this Italian restaurant is a go-to for San Franciscan bigwigs and celebs. The Clintons, Brad Pitt, Demi Moore and Bob Dylan are all big fans of this famous fettuccine. Carnivores might head instead to the House of Prime Rib, on Van Ness Avenue, where meat is carved at your table and with a straight-up gin.
All aboard
A trip to San Fran wouldn't be complete unless you took a ride of the world's last manually-operated cable car. Some say that of the city's 40-plus hills, Nob Hill has the very best views. When you reach the top around California and Powell, stop and look about: both bridges, the bay and Alcatraz are all visible from here.
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