Check out Fish & Farm, Local Kitchen & Wine Merchant, Andalu, and happy hour at Chaya (includes weekend dinner hours, and the lounge has great views of the water). All are delicious and surprisingly affordable.

Posted By Jennifer on September 9, 2009, 4:02 PM

Just stayed at Campton Place which is a Taj hotel (as in Taj Mahal). Very luxurious, excellent service. They have a stay 2 nights (rooms as low as $160/night) and get a 3rd night free. Great location by Union Square.

Posted By Chris on September 9, 2009, 4:46 PM

Check out the Nob Hill Hotel on Hyde Street (nobhillhotel.com) and adjoining Italian Restaurant, Colombini. This building really has character, from the lobby to the old fashioned elevators to the beautiful rooms! We stayed in a gorgeous little Victorian-style room with beautiful tapestries and bedding, including their signature teddy bear. Flat screen TV, private bathroom... some rooms even have jacuzzis. Their prices were very reasonable. We paid around $70 or $80 for a Friday night a couple of years ago, and prices still hover around $100 many nights. Their downstairs neighbor, Colombini, was a wonderful complement to the hotel. Again, reasonable prices and their Italian food was really was excellent. We were so satisfied (and stuffed!) after dinner, we skipped out on the rest of our evening's plans to just enjoy our room. Nob Hill Hotel and Colombini are highly recommended!

Posted By Kaity on September 9, 2009, 5:16 PM

I like any of the hotels in the "Joie de Vivre" family (www.jdvhotels.com). Some are very reasonable, and all of them have personality and perks.

Posted By Brian on September 9, 2009, 7:45 PM

AAE Amsterdam Hotel & Hostel has double beds for under $80 near Union Square, so can't really beat that for good budget pricing.

Posted By Bianca on September 10, 2009, 10:11 AM

I love the San Remo. It's inexpensive, full of old world charm, and attached to what I hear is one of the best Italian restaurants in the city. There's also a fun Irish pub and curry house (odd combo but it works!) right around the corner.

Posted By Ashley on September 10, 2009, 11:14 AM

We stayed here: http://www.vrbo.com/208966 and it was amazing - so convenient and relaxing - I wish we could just live there forever :-)
ciao

Posted By Henrik on September 10, 2009, 11:28 AM

San Francisco's a very expensive city for visitors. Your information is really helpful.

Posted By Seo Expert on September 10, 2009, 11:49 AM

For restaurants we recommend: La Mediterranee on Fillmore for delicious, reasonably priced Mediterranean food-They have other locations in Noe Valley and Berkeley; Nopalito near the Panhandle for their authentic regional Mexican cuisine-No burritos and tacos here!; Umami in Cow Hollow for a sushi splurge; Magnolia in the Haight-Ashbury district for their beer and great food.

Posted By 5 year SF resident on September 10, 2009, 12:05 PM

The inexpensive Mosser Hotel is just steps from BART/Muni and across the street from a pricey Marriott. You can choose between shared bathrooms (European style) and private baths. The hotel is in a historic building but guest rooms are modernized with striking decor, flat screen TVs and video games. Robes and toiletries are provided. (http://www.themosser.com/)

Two beautiful Kimpton hotels are also available currently at very reasonable prices and both are in fabulous locations. The Serrano is perfect for theater goers and Union Square shopping (http://www.serranohotel.com/). The Harbor Court is a block from the Ferry Building Farmer's Market (http://www.harborcourthotel.com/).

Posted By Kate on September 10, 2009, 12:26 PM

I had to make an emergency trip to San Francisco last year and tried to make a reservation at the Hilton. They had no vacancies. I then used Expedia to try to find a hotel in the Union Square area, and they recommended Villa Florence. It was reasonably priced, an upgraded older hotel, and was clean and comfortable. Bathroom in my room was a bit short on shelf space but would not stop me from staying there again. For the first time I used BART from the airport to the city and had a short walk up a hill to the hotel. From now on it's my preferred place to stay and way to travel from the airport to the city.

Posted By Ray on September 10, 2009, 12:28 PM

Don't miss the Ferry Building Marketplace -- especially on Saturday morning when the farmers market takes place. Get there early to avoid the crowds and eat breakfast from one of the stalls outside. (Primavera and Hayes Street Grill are good choices -- grab your coffee from Blue Bottle.) After breakfast, shop the food purveyors inside (Sharffen Berger, Miette, Cowgirl Creamery, Acme Bread, etc.). Finish up with lunch at Taylor's Automatic Refresher or Hog Island Oyster. You can even come back for dinner at the Slanted Door!

http://www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com/

http://www.ferryplazafarmersmarket.com/

Posted By Kate on September 10, 2009, 12:35 PM

This doesn't qualify as a budget tip, but for those able and willing to spend approximately $400.00 per couple, I recommend a meal at the Dining Room at the Ritz Carlton as a worthy, if budget-breaking, splurge. The room is beautiful, the staff professional and unobtrusive, and the creations of (Iron) Chef Ron Siegel take one on a gustatory adventure with inspired combinations of flavors and ingredients. We have dined twice at this venue, and on both occasions selected the tasting menu and associated wine plan. Both meals are memorable and the 'Salt and Pepper' tasting menu was particularly outstanding. If you choose the wine plan, I suggest you plan not to drive following the meal as there is a different wine with each course and the pours are generous. And plan to spend three to four enjoyable hours over dinner.

Posted By jeff on September 10, 2009, 12:47 PM

Crossing de wonderfull Golden Gate Bridge you must turn right on the second exit, Sausalito.
Dario's Pizza, in Sausalito, I recommend Creek pizza and Hawaiian. And after go to "The Inn above Tide" or " Casa Madrona". From Brasil, João Ferraro

Posted By João Ferraro on September 10, 2009, 1:05 PM

The White Swan on Bush Street is a great place to stay. They frequently have special rates. The Pork Store on Haight St is good for a cheap, filling meal (with vegetarian & vegan selections). Buying fresh food at the Ferry Market building and/or the Saturday Farmer's Market at the same location is wonderful. And although expensive, visit Cocobellas at Westfield Shopping Center for exquisite chocolate. SF is a great city.

Posted By Frequent SF Tourist on September 10, 2009, 1:10 PM

Every time we go to San Francisco my wife and I head to Nob Hill and eat at a little French Bistro Rue Lepic on Pine St. It is 11 tables and an open kitchen. Very cozy with exceptional (not pricey) food.

Posted By Arthur on September 10, 2009, 1:17 PM

If you're from back East and miss the NY style pizza - try Amici's - best I've found west of NY! They have several locations in the Bay area and 2 in SF - we like the one on 2200 Lombard St. Another is at 216 King St.

Posted By Susan on September 10, 2009, 1:20 PM

I love to stay at the Hotel San Remo, a restored boarding house close to both the Wharf and North Beach. Rooms without sinks are as low as $75. There are communal bathrooms and showers, but all are kept stocked and clean. The rooms are a bit small and need some upgrades but you can't beat the price and location. Not for folks who want lots of amenities or privacy or who can't walk up stairs. Also, steer clear of the penthouse...for $189 there should be a more luxurious bed.

Posted By Annie on September 10, 2009, 2:02 PM

Finding quality hotels at budget prices is a breeze if you use the Travel Coupon Guide booklet found in most IHOP's, Denny's, some McD's, and Carrows. The ONLY SFO airport hotel is Travelodge North at 326 So. Airport Blvd. in South S.F. (886) 559-7175. Their current price is $42 plus tax and includes free 24 hr. shuttle to/from the air port, free wi-fi, free continental b'fast,
IHOP next door, free park'g.
In the city, the Royal Pacific Motor Inn is at 661 Broadway where China Town and North Beach meet; a perfect location. Currently $79 plus tax w/most of the basic amenities and free park'g; 886-559-6282.
The Mithila Hotel,$49 in Sept, $39 in Oct. is at 972 Sutter, not far from Union Square (866) 260-6982. The best overall buy is the Broadway Manor Inn ($54 for a king, $64 for 2 queens) at 2201 Van Ness at Broadway (800) 727-6239 w/free park'g, but reserve well in advance as they fill up quickly.

Posted By Dick Griffin on September 10, 2009, 2:16 PM

We stayed at the Columbus Inn and were very pleased with our stay. We booked a family room which had a King size bed in one room and a separate room with a queen bed. It was perfect for our family of 4, and each room had flat screen tvs. The only thing they could have changed would be to add a fridge and microwave. It was very clean, affordable, comfortable, safe, and quiet. The free parking in the garage was also a plus. Everything we wanted to do was within walking distance, and bus and trolley were within a block. http://www.columbusmotorinn.com/

Posted By Janae on September 10, 2009, 2:25 PM

Boulevard is a beautiful art deco-styled restaurant with excellent American cuisine. Expensive, but perfect for special events. We went on a Wednesday and the place was packed - with people that looked like locals. The service was wonderful.

The Hotel Drisco is part of the "Joie de Vivre" line of hotels. Tucked away in residential Pacific Heights, it has a vintage touch. Charming, and the personnel were incredibly helpful. It's definitely not a youngster's place (in our mid-30s we were some the youngest guests). We personally enjoyed the wine reception every evening and excellent breakfasts (included in room price).

Posted By Jen on September 10, 2009, 2:42 PM

Mario's Bohemian Cigar Bar in North Beach (across from Washington Square) is a quaint little bar serving cold beer, amazing meatball sandwiches and pungent -- but fabulous -- tiramisu.

Posted By alissa on September 10, 2009, 2:50 PM

The Renaissance Stanford Court is very elegant and comfortable. I was lucky and had a discounted price but it is well worth the regular price.

Posted By Elaine on September 10, 2009, 2:56 PM

I love to have a irish coffee at the Buena Vista on Hyde St.@ Beach.(where the cable car ends) They also have the best food, but they are world famous for their irish coffee's and to watch them make them at the bar is the most fun.
Go to the Buena Vista and ENJOY!!!

Posted By Chris Shannon on September 10, 2009, 3:20 PM

Archbishop's Mansion in San Francisco (Rooms named after Operas). 5 stars It is surrounded by the painted ladies (Victorian homes). Lovely!

Posted By linda ventriglia on September 10, 2009, 3:23 PM

I recommend Chef Jia's for a tasty, inexpensive, meal. Don't be put off by the paucity of patrons or sketchy location of this non-descript, mom-and-pop chinese food restaurant. The food is great and the price is right.

Posted By jeff on September 10, 2009, 3:49 PM

A lot of people don't think of timeshares when visiting San Francisco, but we've found that renting a timeshare is a very economical way of enjoying that beautiful, but expensive, city. There are quite a few available at key areas, such as Nob Hill and Fisherman's Wharf. We use http://www.redweek.com, and have always had a good experience.

Posted By travelnut on September 10, 2009, 3:49 PM

I recently stayed at Hotel Palomar on 4th and Market which is part of Kimpton Hotels group. Beautiful chic hotel (new, I think), spacious room, helpful staff, free morning coffee bar (skip breakfat at the hotel which is $$), around the corner from a BART station and the trolley turn around. My room was $139/night which I thought was a great deal and I would stay there again in a heartbeat.

Posted By Beth on September 10, 2009, 4:11 PM

I recommend the hotels on Nob Hill if you are looking for a quiet but central location for a stay in San Francisco. Knob Hill is a quiet (for San Francisco) residential neighborhood and the hotels are located near the beautiful Huntington Park.

Posted By jeff on September 10, 2009, 4:14 PM

Archbishop's Mansion closed earlier this year.

I've had great luck using Priceline for 4-star hotels at affordable (under $100) prices. Agree that the JdV hotels are outstanding, too. Also, if you're staying for more than 3 days or coming with family, consider using VRBO to rent a furnished condo or apartment in more residential or neighborhoody locations such as Cow Hollow, Nob Hill, and Noe Valley.

For restaurants, I enjoy Pizzetta 211 for it's artisan pizzas and local ingredients in an intimate setting (cash only, too!), Aziza for California/Fusion Middle Eastern (the vegetarian basteeya is a really soothing blend of spices and flavors), Papalote for Northern Cal-inspired burritos (both regular and vegetarian), and Bar Jules for simple yet attentive local cuisine.

The Saturday morning Farmer's Market at the Ferry Building is a must-do, as is visiting Fort Point just north of Crissy Field. It provides a really unique perspective of the Golden Gate Bridge (it'll be right above you!) and the view from the bay into the Pacific. Oh, and Fort Point is free! Don't miss a picnic lunch in Alamo Square (make a pit stop on Divisadero or Lower Haight and pick up lunch at any of the numerous restaurants and take-outs, such as Jay's Cheesesteak, which offers seitan versions of their regular sandwiches, or The Little Chihuahua down on Divisadero and Page--warning! black bean and plaintain burrito may lull you into a calm, dream-like state).

Catch a movie at the Castro Theatre, where 30 minutes prior to curtain guests enjoy a resounding live organ performance. Just down the street, Hot Cookie serves fresh baked items like cookies and bars. Don't pass up a butch bar, which features creamy layers of peanut butter and chocolate fudge. A tour through Mission Dolores costs approx. $7 or donation; local volunteers dress in cape and garb, and will happily explain the Mission's history in detail.

Lastly, make a detour to 826 Valencia's pirate store, where you can learn about David Eggars' national writing program and the local satellite and it's outreach-type shop. Be prepared to be verbally outwitted and humorously enthused. And perhaps mopped.

Posted By Rubies on September 10, 2009, 4:26 PM

Was in San Fran in August-loved it. Stayed at Villa Florence- great room, great view,great location. Will stay there again. Irish Coffee at Buena Vista a must as are drinks at the top of the Mark Hopkins. Had dinner at Alioto's- delicious as always. My parents ate there when they lived in the area 45 years ago, so it's a must for my family.

Posted By Tammy on September 10, 2009, 4:31 PM

If you are looking for reasonably priced clean accomodations with free parking (unusual these days in SF), it's hard to beat the Coventry Motor Inn, the Chelsea Motor Inn, and the Columbus Motor Inn--all operated by the same management. The first two are in the Marina District close to good eating and within a block of two bus lines (30, 22) that will easily get you connected to anywhere in the city. The last one is within walking distance of Ghiradelli Square, Fisherman's Wharf, Chinatown, and great eating in North Beach. It too is on a bus line (30) that will easily connect you to anywhere in the city. We seldom stay anywhere else on our several trips to the city each year.

Posted By Tony St. Amant on September 10, 2009, 4:34 PM

I live in San Francisco and I would suggest checking out the street food vendors for cheap and great quality foods. One in particular that I highly suggest is Kung Fu Taco (twitter.com/kungfutaco). They're stationed on the corner of Sansome and Jackson. Grab your order and then walk over to the Embarcadero and so some people watching. I would also suggest the Farmers Market at the Ferry Building on Thursday's and Saturday. Tons of great food and street food on Thursday. For great beer: Toronado down in the lower Haight is an institution. They have over fifty craft beers on tap and then a boatload of special bottle beers. You won't find bud or miller here, so don't ask. Next door is Rosemunde where you can get a sausage and take it next door to Toronado and eat with your beer. I would also suggest The Monks Kettle in The Mission. Great food, wonderful beer and wine. Flour + Water in The Mission. Henry Slocombes Ice Cream in The Mission. And don't forget to try "Q" over on Clement. Oh yeah, Santung Chinese Food down in the Sunset is FANTASTIC! Try their dry-braised chicken wings.

Posted By Chris G on September 10, 2009, 5:14 PM

If you want to eat seafood, and enjoy free red and white wine while you wait for a table, try the Pacific cafe on Geary. This is a small place place, usually have to wait outside, only a few chairs to wait inside, but while youre waiting, they serve you FREE wine, and they fill your glass up. Great food, and not very expensive. This place id off the beaten path, like the wharf area, is something over rated. Try it, and you will make this place a regular......they open at 5pm daily...

Posted By Henry Machens on September 10, 2009, 5:49 PM

Oh, a few more places to add:

The Sentinel (http://www.thesentinelsf.com/) for M-F gourmet sandwiches. Put in your order via phone before 11am, and swoop by after a mid-morning SFMOMA tour to pick up your order. You can also wait in line at lunchtime, but if the tiny kitchen runs out the fixins' for your sandwich, be prepared to change your order. Eat your sandwich in Yerba Buena Gardens or the atrium at 101 2nd.

Check out Two (http://www.two-sf.com/)for happy hour from 4-6PM; there's a $5 menu, which changes daily, and offers items like freshly made tomato soup and butterscotch pudding.

Bi-Rite Creamery, with a cult-like following, offers original flavors of ice cream: honey lavender, salted caramel, and balsamic strawberry are just a few!

Posted By Rubies on September 10, 2009, 5:56 PM

We live across the bay and love our sister city! We are vegetarians and so here is our all time vegetarian favorites. Herbivore - budget friendly; Greens - great atmosphere (Fort Mason), delicious food and great wine parings. Greens is our "we want a nice relaxing night out on the town" restaurant. Millennium (Union Square) upscale, great bartender, love their wine pairings. I highly suggest their prix fixe menu with wine pairings. We dine there when we stay at our Worldmark Resort timeshare property on Bush. Greens and Millennium reservations are required however, when you dine at Millennium they will serve you at the bar.

If you want to dine well and give back to the community, visit Delancey Street Restaurant on Embarcadero. We always take out of town guests there first. Great view of the East Bay and Bay Bridge. The restaurant is moderately priced, the service is great, the atmosphere is nice, the food is good and the restaurant is a training ground for those less fortunate to reenter the workplace. What an amazing project! Tip: Valet park for $4.00, after lunch or dinner check out a game at PacBell Park, walk around the area, or take the street car down Embarcadero. Just be back before they close!

Posted By DeborahO on September 10, 2009, 6:26 PM

Stayed in San Francisco in June. Stayed by myself and thought the Argonaut hotel was perfect. The Argonaut is located on Fisherman's Wharf, the service was great, the rate was very good(@$180/night), the decor was fun, it was extremely clean, and they had a wine reception each night. I felt very safe walking around by myself. One thing some people might not like is that they do allow pets, so you may ride the elevator with a large poodle. It is right on the water, right accross the street from the streetcar, and next door to the bicycle rental. I also really enjoyed the meal I had at McCormacks. It was much better than any of the other seafood places I ate at while there.

Posted By Jerilyn on September 10, 2009, 6:27 PM

For "old San Francisco" definitely try the House of Prime Rib on Van Ness. Dinner includes salad (with their special dressing prepared for the entire group at tableside), creamed spinach (or corn), mashed or baked potato and yorkshire pudding. The prime rib is sliced off the roast with the exact degree of doneness you request from a cart that comes to your table. And they'll bring back more meat or sides if you're still hungary. And all for under $40 per person!

They now also offer a fish alternative, but this is not a place for vegetarians. Go specifically when you want Prime Rib. It may be the best anywhere in the U.S. If you enjoy meat well done, definitely try their "end cut." It's fall-apart tender. We're locals and "inherited" this great restuarant from my parents (it was their grown-ups-only destination restaurant when I was a kid.) You can go in jeans or evening gown and will still be comfortable. Great martinis in individual shakers.

And don't miss Gus, the maitre d'. A couple of years ago he celebrated his 50th anniversary of running the dining room. He makes every person feel special. Definitely plan on reservations if at all possible because it is crowded almost every night. They do take walk-ins but you can wait for hours (the trick to get in as a walk-in is to go at 4:30 or 5, get on the waiting list and have a drink at the bar.)

Our favorite memory of this restaurant was being there one evening many years ago during a tense moment in our marriage. Apparently it showed. At the table next to us were two elderly men who were celebrating their 40th anniversary as a couple at their favorite special-occasion restaurant. They decided it was important to share their warm feelings and tips for a long relationship with us that night. It must have worked because we decided at the end of the evening we had to make our marriage work! We only take our most special friends to this place. We hope you enjoy it as much as we have. But once Gus is gone (and we have no idea how old he is becaues he never seems to change)it may never be the same. So don't miss it!

Posted By Lynn Berling-Manuel on September 10, 2009, 6:31 PM

I love to eat and am from a culinary town, so when I went to the noodle restaurant in Castro district called Nirvana I was hooked. It has a great patio and scrumptious food. The atmosphere and food combined make it the best place I dined on my ten day vacation to the city. It was affordable and easy to get to being on the main drag of Castro St down from the theater. I can't say enough good things about it and can't plan my trip back to eat agian soon enough.

Posted By Danielle Sallee on September 10, 2009, 6:37 PM

I disagree with the previous comment to stay away from the Penthouse at the San Remo hotel. My husband and I stayed there for two nights last year and it was a wonderful, very memorable experience. It was so quiet up there - your own private respite from the hustle and bustle of the city below. We would lay in bed and listen to the sea gulls and fog horns in the morning. It even has an outdoor patio area for dining al fresco. With its funky interior and Victorian style bathroom, I can't think of a more unique place to stay in S.F. And I think it's a total bargain at $189/night, especially in a city known for much higher room rates.

For eats, you can't beat the happy hour at the Fairmont Hotel's Tonga Room, which has a crazy, over the top tiki theme going on.

Posted By Jessica on September 10, 2009, 7:04 PM

I love the hotels with the Kimpton Hotel group...look on internet. They are renovated hotels, each with a special flare and amazingly helpful staff. I think all have great restaurants in the same building.

For restaurants, try the website:"Check Please Bay Area" for recommendations by locals. http://blogs.kqed.org/food/ I like Sears Fine Foods (not connected with the retail chain) just 1 block up Powell from Union Square for great breakfasts. Also, the best hamburgers at Bill's Place on Clement.

San Francisco has great little restaurants...you don't have to go to the four star, expensive ones to have a great meal.

Posted By Jane on September 10, 2009, 7:21 PM

I love Hotel Des Artes. You can't beat the location and if you're into unique and edgy, you'll love it. There's no room service though so if you're looking to be pampered, stay somewhere else. If you're looking for a fun, true SF experience, check it out.

Posted By Nicole on September 10, 2009, 7:49 PM

Because food is THE specialty of San Francisco, my favorite recommendation is not necessarily a specific restaurant, but a small section called BELDEN LANE, a small alley between Montgomery and Kearny Streets, and crossed by Bush and Pine Streets (right across from the towering Bank of America Building). This place is lined with a restaurants with available outdoor dining and has a European feel, especially as you walk through the narrow path lined with French, Spanish, Italian, and Mediterranean restaurants, along with a vodka bar. The hosts trying to entice you into their respective restaurant reminds me of Paris as you flirt back with a 'maybe' and a smile. In the evening, the lines of lights really add to the charm. And the food at any of these restaurants are wonderful! All the restaurants are reasonably priced, but if you're looking to not spend quite as much, try Cafe Bastille, for their crepes or omelet lunches. This restaurant initiated the transformation from an old smelly alley into a place to try over and over again. Oops! And don't let me forget the American restaurant Sam's that dates back decades with old San Franciso roots. NOTE: There are many converted alleys like this around the City, but I believe Belden started the trend. And you can't miss, regardless which restaurant you choose.

Posted By Frances on September 10, 2009, 8:03 PM

I'm a culinary arts student at City College of San Francisco Downtown Campus. Our kitchen provides all the food for the Educated Palate, a restaurant on the corner of 4th and Mission. The prices are low and the quality is excellent--open for lunch weekdays only!

Posted By Chef-to-be Jo on September 10, 2009, 10:52 PM

Got to get to Scoma's behind all the popular touristy places along Fisherman's Wharf. This is a true locals-only kind of place - great vibe, great food, popular prices - the kind of place that if you went more than once, they would know your name - and you don't have to wait in line as it's hidden behind all the heavily-advertised places - it is worth looking for - go and enjoy!

Posted By Roaches02 on September 10, 2009, 11:01 PM

I live in Petaluma and visit San Francisco often. My favorite hotel for location and price is the Baldwin Hotel on Grant Street. It is near the entrance to China Town and a very central location. It reminds me of the hotels I have stayed in while in Europe. A great place to eat in China Town is Kam Lok. It is located at 834 Washington St. You go down the stairs and is where many locals eat. Very reasonable and family friendly. Of course, you must have coffee at Trieste Caffe on Grant in North Beach.

Posted By Maxilee on September 11, 2009, 3:43 AM

My all time favorite place to go for pizza is the orginal Pizza Orgasmica on Filmore Street. It rivals pizza in New York. Everything from the sauce, cheese and crust makes this pizza delicious! All of their pies have funky names too like doggie style, serpent's kiss and latin lover. Also, there are two popular bars (Eastside West and City Tavern) on the nearby corner of Fillmore and Greenwich Street where you can meet and greet.

Posted By John H on September 11, 2009, 4:10 PM

The Inn San Francisco offers small European-style bed and breakfast hospitality for people who don't want to stay amidst the tourists. Originally a Victorian Mansion in 1870's, The Inn has been lovingly restored. They offer a sumptious breakfast buffet and have a garden with a hot tub. They also have rooms with private spa tubs which are popular with honeymooners. My favorite activity is hanging out on the roof top deck...sipping wine and looking at the city views. Fred, the Innkeeper, has compiled a list of 100 good restaurants which you can walk to from The Inn. My current favorite restaurant is Osha on Valencia St....contempory Thai cuisine. The Inn San Francisco is at 943 South Vaness Ave or go to www.InnSF.com. It's a very special b&b!

Posted By Debby on September 11, 2009, 4:25 PM

Bi-Rite! There is the grocery store and the ice cream shop on the same street, and I stop by at both every time I'm in town!

Posted By Lilian on September 12, 2009, 5:04 PM

Cha Cha Cha on Height for fantastic fire shrimp and sangria
Jardinere on Grove for epicurian delights.
Squat and Gobble (various locations) for breakfast or brunch.
Goat Hill Pizza on Connecticut for pizza with a sourdough crust.
Phoenix Irish Bar on Valencia for amazing Bloody Mary's and the decent brew selection to accompany pub grub.
Swan Oyster Depot on Polk for the no nonsense staff, oysters on the half shell, and clam chowder.
Radio Africa and Kitchen on Bryant for excellent Ethiopian/Moroccan with a local twist.
Gitane on Claude Lane for Basque delights.

These are just a few of my favorite restaurants within San Francisco city limits.

Posted By Lili on September 12, 2009, 5:23 PM

We go to SF a few times per year. The Monticello Inn has been a favorite but they are remodeling and will reopen as a Klimpton Hotel. We have stayed at the Archbishop's Mansion - a great B & B with free parking.

We usually do Scomas at the Wharf - wonderful food, great service and just off the beaten track. Foleys is a great Irish Pub on Geary - the garlic fries are outstanding!
Lots of nice Italian restaurants in North Beach.

Posted By Maureen on September 12, 2009, 7:02 PM

I am originally from San Francisco and recently traveled back through there on my way to Asia. Since I usually stay at my parent's place finding a hotel has never really been a problem. On this trip my husband and I wanted to spend a nice evening in the city before I caught my flight. We found a great value and location in Hotel Diva. It's on Geary Street a few blocks down from Union Square and the much pricier Westin St. Francis. We prepaid our room on the hotel's website and were upgraded to a suite upon arrival. The room was large (for city standards) and very modern and clean. We paid around $120 for the night including taxes. Be careful if you have a car though - the valet was $30-40 per day. We took BART so parking wasn't an issue and I recommend others to the same because you can walk many place or take public transportation in the city. The hotel is also right across from the Curran Theater so that's a plus if you plan to hit a show while you're in town.
Some of the restaurants mentioned below have been favorites in my family for many years. We always hit Scoma's on the wharf at least once on every trip. I also had the pleasure on this trip of eating for the first time at House of Prime Rib (excellent value for the amount of food but plan way ahead for reservations) and Delancy Street (great views of Bay Bridge and Embarcadero). If you stay at Hotel Diva or any of the hotels near Union Square give Lefty O'Douls a try for some down-home breakfast food or a fun place to watch one of the games.

Posted By Allison on September 13, 2009, 4:27 AM

In April '08 we named our own price on Priceline and got a 4 star hotel in the Embacadero/Finnacial District for $70 a night for 6 nights. The hotel: Hilton Financial District on Geary St. (The location of the hotel is really closer to Chinatown and North Beach, and within walking distance to Ferry Building Embarcadero.) I called ahead to ask for a room with a view and we received a comfortable room on the 21st floor with a grand view of the bay & Coit Tower.

Posted By Kelley on September 13, 2009, 6:44 PM

Hotel Tomo near Japantown (one of the Joie de Vivre hotels) is a really cute hotel that cost about $120 during weekdays and $160 during the weekends. The rooms are decorated in a modern style with Japanese Pop Culture accents, including a mural on the wall of each room reminiscent of anime.

There are 4 bus lines that pass through here, making easy access to Downtown Area and Pier 39. The Japantown district is located right across the street, rich with Japanese culture, shopping, and restaurants.

Posted By Juliet A. on September 14, 2009, 12:51 AM

We love to eat at A16. Reservations are needed but if you can go early the counter in the bar is available on a first come first serve basis. You order the same great food and visit with the bartenders about specials. Good wine list and knowledgeable bartenders.

Posted By Wendy on September 14, 2009, 1:48 PM

Looking for a reasonably priced hotel with a good location, we stayed at the Baldwin Hotel which is located right next to the Chinatown gate and a block from Union Square. It's a European style hotel so the rooms are small but everything was very clean and the staff were helpful.

Posted By Jana Britt on September 14, 2009, 7:25 PM

I recommend Hotel Triton which is part of the Kimpton chain. It's centrally located right across from the Chinatown gate and usually well-priced at between $100-$150/nt. The rooms are artistically decorated and the hotel service is generally good. Chic French cafe at street level and plenty of Asian restaurants nearby!

Posted By Linda on September 14, 2009, 10:01 PM

Butterfly is a great restaruant - sort of Asian Fusion right on pier 38 (I think...the pier where you get the ferry to Alcatraz). Outstanding service, reasonable price and above all fresh and tasty food! Loved it!

Posted By Alan on September 14, 2009, 10:17 PM

Our favorite hotel in the Fisherman's Wharf area is the Best Western Tuscan Inn. It is very clean. The rooms are nicely decorated. The entire hotel has a bit of Italian flair. It has an Italian restaurant with outside seating, which is great for breakfast and is a good alternative for dinner, in case sightseeing has got you too tired to go out.

You might not expect great food on the touristy Fisherman's Wharf, but Dante's is so good that we keep going back again and again - seafood and steaks, with water views from the upper level at the Wharf. We also like the Cliff House out at the beach and John's Grill two blocks directly South of Union Square - historic atmosphere and great food.

If you drive Highway 1 to Half Moon Bay, stop for lunch or dinner in Princeton at Barbara's Fish Trap or Ketch Joanne, both are great seafood dives.

Posted By G on September 15, 2009, 8:12 AM

I love the Union Square Hotel (http://www.hotelunionsquare.com/) which is part of the Personality Hotels group (http://www.personalityhotels.com/). USH is located right on one of the cable car lines (Powell) near its terminus, about 1-1/2 blocks from the BART. They have parking on-site (extra fee though). Lovely staff, nicely decorated rooms. Rooms that face Powell may be a little noisy if you're not used to the city but I always think hearing the cable car clanging is part of the charm of the area. It's a historical hotel dating to 1913; there's a suite named for Dashiell Hammett, who wrote "The Maltese Falcon" and apparently loved this hotel in its previous incarnation. The boutique styling is a cross between San Francisco artsy-meets modern-Euro styling. Easy walk to attractions. Their room rates vary (I've had rooms for $125 here but they also book for over $200); but if you can't find something to suit your budget here, try their sister Personality hotels.

Maya (http://www.mayasf.com/) is worth a little splurge. It's not wildly expensive - not for a SF restaurant! - but really good Mexican.

Noe Valley Bakery (http://www.noevalleybakery.com/) is on 24th - divine!!! and lots of cute shops and restaurants in the area.

And while it's not food or hotel, catch the sunset from the Coit Tower - spectacular views across the city! Worth timing your day for it if the day is relatively clear; and free. It's not far from the iconic City Lights bookstore (http://www.citylights.com/) which is surrounded by lots of great little cafés and restaurants with great atmosphere!

Posted By Cheryl Lemanski on September 16, 2009, 2:14 AM

Petite Auberge (863 Bush Street) between Union Sq and Nob Hill is our favorite. The price is very reasonable, the accommodations fine and the staff very warm and helpful. Whenever we are in town that is the place we like to stay.

Posted By Chris on September 16, 2009, 9:40 AM

My two favorites...Fog City Diner on the Embarcadero and Financial district. Reasonable prices, top quality and delicious and easy to reach.
Dotties True Blue Diner on Jones in the tenderloin. Get there early...if you have to wait it is worth it. Fabulous breakfasts and lunches. There are a number of innovative restaurans in the tenderloin area easy on the budget!

Posted By L.A. Gowan on September 17, 2009, 1:43 PM

when i do get a chance to go to san francisco, i make it a point to stay at hotel union square, the rooms tend to be small but has a central location on union square and close to the bart on powell, comes with a flat screen tv and the beds are super comfy, not bad for a $100.
for the best crepes i go to crepevine on market and church.

Posted By mark on September 17, 2009, 6:01 PM

Delancy Street at Embarcadero and Delancy has great Cajun and American food, good drinks and excellent service at reasonable prices. It is run by Delancy St Foundation, one of the most successful rehab programs around, so you are supporting a good cause while enjoying a great restaurant.

Posted By Karen on September 21, 2009, 4:33 PM

Living in San Francisco and employed as a senior corporate travel consultant for over twenty years puts me in a good position to tell everyone visiting,this is not an easy city to find a room. There is not a better time of year to book, not a better weekday or weekend will be found, it does not matter, it is always hard to find a room in San Francisco year around. Period. It's our perpetual mild weather all year long. The good news is there are plenty of great hotels, many new promising ones constantly opening, many with surprising rates at times, but always sold out in advance. If a convention is added to the mix just forget it! So if your having trouble in your search scrambling just to find a room here,any room, welcome to San Francisco! Quite a few visitors are directed towards the properties at the airport. No. Some are sent to Oakland across the bay. No. You really don't want to do either of those locations. San Francisco is a walking town and best seen staying in the heart. That's where all the wonders of the city are found. At least within city limits. So although I'm giving away some tricks of my trade to you all, I'm going to offer you two ideas that have worked for myself over these many years. Here I go -
The first secret here is making personal contacts. Call the hotel properties directly. Visit their websites, read the reviews, but a personal call directly to the hotel can do wonders here. The residents are quite honestly extremely helpful, accustomed to people from all around the world and we love sharing our place on the planet with tourists and visitors. Ask real nice and a lower rate might be found. Try this with the reservation manager on duty when you call. Ask the manager for information on any lower rates that you might not be aware they offer, and you have a very good chance of getting lucky. So many times there are other lower rates, all kinds of rates, for many different reasons and all published but not always advertised. The reservation manager will also know of any and all upcoming specials and promotions.

The second secret is - If you find yourself here and no room in sight, try searching along Lombard Street from Van Ness Avenue heading towards the Golden Gate Bridge. You'll find many motels, hotels and inns. Most clean. There are even a few chains with brand names you'll recognize but most are family owned. Some are quite nice and reasonable places to stay. The GG Bridge is near, The Palace of Fine Arts and Marina. These properties don't advertise on travel sites so most you will mever see listed anywhere. Even travel agents usually don't have most of them in their listings. Try a Google search Motels or Hotel on Lombard Street is a good start to checking them out Again call directly. Big Warning - There are great differences from one to the other of the quality and accomodations. Ask questions when you call. You will find a few hidden gems along the length of Lombard Street but also there are a few not even the budget suave travel should abide. Take your time checking them out and do some research before you decide.

Both of these travel tips have worked very well for me helping visitors find last minute rooms in my favorite but always packed city.

Posted By Jeffrey on October 20, 2009, 12:33 AM