Welcome to Concierge Corner, where we bring you the best advice from San Francisco’s top in-the-know pros on where to eat, go and do.
This month, we seek advice from Juan Manuel Marquez, a senior concierge at the elegant neoclassical Ritz Carlton San Francisco. Juan Manuel loves the international flair of the city which he has called home since 2002, and truly enjoys assisting people from all around the world. In fact, he’s fluent in Spanish, French and has working knowledge of Italian; and you’ll notice his recommendations are reflective of his love for these cultures, as well as their cuisines. You won’t ever go hungry or bored if you listen to him!
In his free time, Juan Manuel enjoys doing yoga five days a week and walking through different neighborhoods of San Francisco. He has also been a member of the prestigious and globally respected Les Clefs d’Or since 2005 and has attended several of its congresses held all over the world.
Featured photo: Juan Manuel Marquez
What’s special about visiting San Francisco in August?
Visiting San Francisco during the summer is special as our weather is unique, and people come from different parts of the world to escape their hot weather back home. For instance, I meet quite a few visitors from Italy in August, as they know about our crisp and cool weather. They are not alone; in August, it feels like San Francisco becomes “the capital of the world” with visitors around the globe and hearing all the languages on the streets, at restaurants and at our local attractions such as our world class museums — the SFMOMA, de Young and Legion of Honor — plus Golden Gate Park and of course, Alcatraz.
What’s your recommendation on how to spend a romantic evening in San Francisco?
San Francisco has that unique Parisian beauty that you can find in its charming neighborhoods. I recommend having dinner in Russian Hill at one of my favorite places, Collina (the name means ‘little hill’ in Italian). It’s a small and charming place where the owners and managers take great care of you. After dinner, I suggest taking a stroll down Hyde street and hopping on the Powell-Hyde cable car back to the Ritz Carlton, if you are staying with us, or just enjoying the allure of old world San Francisco.
Which city neighborhoods would you recommend that visitors take in?
I recommend Hayes Valley for its uniqueness and lively vibe. I also recommend Pacific Heights, especially Fillmore street for the one-of-a-kind local San Francisco boutiques. You must stop at b. patisserie on Fillmore, a French style bakery where the staff is very friendly and the Kouign-amann and chocolate banana croissants are amazing. Lastly, I also recommend Noe Valley for its warm and sunny weather and family-oriented atmosphere. One must go to the hometown Noe Valley Bakery for a pastry or any of its delicious breads or cakes. The staff is so welcoming. There is always a line, but it moves quickly!
What are the best summer season activities for families?
A visit to Golden Gate Park is a must; it truly offers culture, nature and peace of mind while having fun. The park’s museums are world class, including the California Academy of Sciences (don’t miss the albino alligator!) and the serene Japanese Tea Garden. The tea garden is adjacent to the Conservatory of Flowers and the San Francisco Botanical Gardens; all of the gardens hold special events and exhibits all year long. One can enjoy a wonderful lunch at the de Young’s museum café, which offers an extensive menu for the whole family.
Where to get an iconic or seasonal drink?
My top choice is Bar Sprezzatura, a place with Italian flair and located in Maritime Plaza in the heart of the city. The owner Carlo Splendorini is a wonderful host, and the establishment’s chef Joseph Offner, prepares amazing “small bites” known as cicchetti, which pair beautifully with the bar’s craft cocktails. They offer an amazing menu of nonalcoholic crafted cocktails as well, which I truly love. Bar Sprezzatura is indeed one of the best places to gather with friends.
New or underrated spots that can’t be missed?
San Francisco gets its fair share of buzz about its Michelin star restaurants, but we also have some amazing casual eateries. One such eatery is La Taqueria in the Mission, which I believe has the best burritos in the country. One can taste the love and commitment to quality and consistency (it’s always good!) and the incredible service from the whole staff who are cordial and friendly, including La Taqueria’s owner, Miguel Jara. Afterwards, take a walk through the area and enjoy the vibrant Latin murals found throughout the Mission neighborhood.
