Post #570127 by JOHN-O on Thu, Dec 23, 2010 7:38 PM

I LOVE the Tadich Grill !! Old-school authenticity since 1840. You know how a lot of new restaurants tout themselves as San Francisco-style bar & grills. Well this place is the original and the template for all that followed. Often imitated but never topped.

Also check out Swan Oyster Depot (since 1912). It's a seafood store that has an Oyster bar. I love how your server will remind you "I'm a butcher, not a waiter !!". Another classic SF experience.

Another fave caught on fire several years ago and still hasn't reopened. I really miss Original Joe's. :(

Also this is how I've gotten to Forbidden Island without a car. Take BART from San Francisco to 12th St. Oakland/City Center station. From there just walk a block to the City Center Marriott where you can catch a cab to Alameda. It's less than a 3-mile fare to FI. This way you can have all the cocktails you want and not have to worry about the drive. The whole town of Alameda is just one giant speed trap anyway.