Before Ms. ’Rona sent us all home from school, my friends and I sat on a plane destined for San Francisco with a week of Spring Break awaiting. I’ve never been to the West Coast before, but I must say, San Francisco easily became one of my favorite cities. Here’s a list of my favorite restaurants, activities, and ~local~ spots we hit. 

1. Mount Tamalpais 

Can’t say any of us are really professional hikers. But, we did go for a morning walk, Philz coffee in hand, on Mount Tamalpais (Mount Tam, as the cool kids say). It was beautiful—views of the Pacific and the Golden Gate Bridge in the background can’t be beat. And, for a bunch of college kids that basically ate and drink for four days straight prior to this hike, it is pretty doable for beginners and perfect for a sunny start to the day, 

2. Pizzetta 221

Our resident San Franciscan Macy Amos brought us to Pizzetta—a little shoebox of a pizza restaurant with no more than four tables inside and a couple tables outdoors. But for such a little place, Pizzetta didn’t disappoint. For vibes and for food, this was probably my favorite restaurant we went to the entire trip. Pizzas can easily be shared which we all know is the best way to eat out with friends. 

3. China Beach 

Like I said, I’m the lame-o that had never been to the West Coast before so naturally I had to see the Golden Gate Bridge in all its tourist glory. China Beach had, hands down, the best view of the bridge that I saw the entire trip. Followed by a trip to In-N-Out, I felt like a real West Coaster!

4. Souvla 

For a quick bite, Souvla is an SF-based Greek restaurant that absolutely kills the game. Full disclosure: This was probably the healthiest meal we ate the entire trip and it’s not exactly clean.  But, I could live on the Greek fries and olive oil and sea salt frozen yogurt alone. 

5. Dolores Park 

Post-shopping, we sat in Dolores Park on jackets sipping juices and admiring all of the oddities that are SF locals. Dolores Park is the perfect place for a mid-afternoon outdoor siesta in the sunshine. Pro tip: Get your Souvla to-go and eat it in the park *chef’s kiss*.

6. The Mill 

The Mill is a two-for-one breakfast and dinner restaurant—we went here for a pre-brunch coffee and a pizza night. Both were fabulous. It’s seat-yourself for dinner, so I’d recommend getting there early. But, nonetheless, worth it even if you have to stand.

7. Vintage Shopping 

What would a trip to a new city be without exploring all of the vintage shops it has to offer. A few of my favorites: The Wasteland (I bought RE/DONE trousers for half price, just saying), General Store, and After Life. HIT. THEM. UP.

8. Happy Donuts 

This one is half a gag, half serious. ~Apparently~ all the cool kids from SF go to Happy Donuts at the end of a night out—which was exactly what we did. Post bar and Korean BBQ, a glazed donut was no doubt the BEST way to end the night.