Many visitors travel to San Francisco to visit its famous landmarks: the Golden Gate Bridge. Alcatraz. Lombard Street. Fisherman’s Wharf. What’s often left off the list: parks and natural areas, except for, of course, Golden Gate Park.
This month, we caught up with Robert Buen-Drews, a concierge at the prestigious St. Regis Hotel San Francisco and an ardent outdoor enthusiast who wants visitors to know about the city’s often overlooked, but impressive, green spaces.
Buen-Drews is an 18-year veteran in the hospitality industry, a member of Les Clefs d’Or USA, a nationally and internationally recognized concierge association, and a member of the Northern California Concierge Association. When not sharing his insights on San Francisco with both visitors and residents alike, he leads a very active life that includes bicycling, running, hiking, snorkeling, and exploring the city. He also DJs, plays his guitar and enjoys a good book.
It’s almost Thanksgiving! What are some best ways to explore the city during the holiday break?
I advise visitors to start off seeing San Francisco via a let’s-get-acquainted tour of the city’s top attractions and landmarks. Two excellent companies offering such tours include San Francisco Jeep Tours and the Painted Ladies Tour Company — the latter escorts visitors around in colorful vintage VW buses. For solo travelers or parties of two, nothing beats the thrill of open-air touring; I recommend trying a motorcycle sidecar tour with Rides By Me.
Of course, San Francisco’s famous cable cars are a must-do! The Powell/Hyde and Powell/Mason travel between Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf (north & south) while the California line rolls forth and back along California Street (east & west). All three are within walking distance to Chinatown, one of the largest neighborhoods of its type in the United States.
Best spots for a romantic rendezvous?
Florio on Fillmore Street and Sociale in Presidio Heights are lovely, refined spots to cozy up with the apple of your eye. Both offer exquisite dishes and atmosphere, and are situated in charming neighborhoods making for the opportunity for a post-dinner stroll. In the Marina district, Bar Crenn is another gorgeous, alluring spot sure to impress and set the tone for a romantic evening.
Favorite San Francisco neighborhoods/areas you point visitors towards?
The Presidio, located adjacent to the Marina district and just before the Golden Gate Bridge, is an ideal destination for a full day of enjoyment. This former military post, active until the mid-90s, offers a wealth of activities for everyone, including San Francisco’s newest green space — Tunnel Tops. It boasts diverse hiking trails, perfect for exploring the area’s rich natural environment where birdwatchers can spot Anna’s Hummingbirds, Scrub Jays, and Red Tail Hawks. Sports enthusiasts can try their hand at the Presidio Golf Course’s challenging 18-hole experience, plus at wall tennis and pickleball facilities. Families with young children will appreciate the Outpost Playground at Tunnel Top, a vast play area that includes the Field Station, where kids of all ages can delve into the Presidio’s diverse ecosystem. Those interested in cycling across the Golden Gate Bridge can easily rent bicycles at Sports Basement, just a short walk away. It also offers an array of food options, from food trucks to restaurants.
Where’s a good spot to get an iconic or seasonal drink?
In my opinion, a visit to the City by the Bay should always include a stop at the legendary Buena Vista Cafe in Fisherman’s Wharf, home to the iconic Irish Coffee. Try to secure a seat by the window to savor your coffee drink, watch the action at the nearby cable car turnaround, and gaze upon the San Francisco Bay. For a morning pick-me-up, make a beeline to the bar at the elegant St. Regis Hotel where The Golden Gate Mary ( the San Francisco version of the renown Bloody Mary) is served by some of San Francisco’s finest mixologists.
Any new or underrated spots that can’t be missed?
Take a free gondola ride up to Salesforce Park, a public space situated on a living roof in the heart of the city that offers a slice of nature with walking trails, fountains and benches to soak in the city atmosphere. From there, it’s a short walk to The Crossing at East Cut, a vibrant spot filled with outdoor dining, sports courts and open space for community gatherings and events. I often buy fresh baked cookies from Woodlands Market along with a coffee from Philz, then relax at The Crossing, enjoying my time watching people and just hanging out. At the western edge of San Francisco, Sunset Dunes is the city’s newest outdoor activity space, situated along the old Great Highway between Golden Gate Park and the San Francisco Zoo. It’s a fantastic spot to relax and watch the sunset after a long day of fun.
