Month: December 2021

A Guide to Celebrating NYE in San Francisco

Posted on by admin

2022 is right around the corner. Unsure of how to celebrate? Whether you like to go big for the holidays or prefer a low-key evening, San Francisco offers plenty of ways to ring in the new year – see below.  

Watch the Fireworks Over the Bay 

Every year, San Francisco boasts an extravagant firework display over the waterfront between the Ferry Building and the San Francisco Bay Bridge. After all, what better way to ring in 2022 than by watching fireworks with your loved ones? This event is one of the most widely attended celebrations in the Bay Area, attracting 200,000 spectators annually. This year’s show kicks off at 11:59 p.m.

Catch a NYE Cruise

Grab your friends and embark on a cruise of the San Francisco Bay to ring in 2022. With plenty of cruise and sailing options to choose from in San Francisco–including formal celebrations to 21+ party boats–you’re sure to find an adventure that suits you perfectly.

Dine at Cafe Boho 

Those looking for a more lowkey celebration might consider dining at one of San Francisco’s many top-notch restaurants, such as Cafe Boho. Located just three miles from The Harrison, Cafe Boho is known for its exquisite cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. This year, they’re offering a NYE special consisting of a 4-course dinner and a glass of champagne. Guests can choose from two seatings (6 p.m. at $80 and 9 p.m. at $115) or the option to go for just champagne, caviar, and oyster service for two ($190).

Grab a Drink at The Alchemist Bar and Lounge

Raise a glass at The Alchemist Bar and Lounge. The bar is set in a spacious and whimsical steampunk hideaway and is considered one of the city’s top cocktail lounges. Set less than a mile from The Harrison, this swanky bar is a great option for those who want to stay close to home. Don’t wait to grab tickets for the NYE celebration, where the night will consist of music, dancing, and expertly crafted cocktails.  

Set Up a Picnic  

Plan for a relaxed New Year’s Eve picnic at Dolores Park. Sunset is an especially beautiful time to kick back and take in the sweeping views of the city. 24th Street Cheese Company, located just over half a mile from the park, is a great spot to stock up on your cheese and charcuterie picnic supplies.

5 Not-to-Miss Holiday Events in San Francisco

Posted on by admin

The holiday season is in full swing, which means that now is the time to finalize your holiday plans.  From spectacular ballets to cheer-filled ice skating, San Francisco offers an array of spirited events and activities that your entire family can participate in. Let the festivities begin!

San Francisco Ballet Nutcracker

Photo Credit: SF Ballet

Set just over two miles from The Harrison, the San Francisco Ballet is world-famous for their performances—especially when it comes to the Nutcracker, of course. With over 150 dancers, live music and a blizzard of snowflakes, the magical holiday show is sure to transport you into a winter wonderland. Children ages three and older are welcome to attend, while those 12 and older must show proof of vaccination. Showings are available through December 30.

Illuminate SF Festival of Lights 

Through January 1, don’t miss the dazzling Illuminate SF Festival of Lights. This highly-anticipated event showcases the talent of 32 artists and 43 light art installations across 17 neighborhoods. Many installations are located in Golden Gate Park, situated less than five miles from The Harrison. 

Joy at the SF Zoo

It’s the most magical time of the year at the San Francisco Zoo & Gardens. Joy at the SF Zoo is a loved local tradition that runs until December 29. Journey down Candy Cane Lane for a ride on the historic carousel or check out the Flying Reindeer Academy to see live reindeer. If you’re craving something sweet, stop by Peppermint Plaza for a toasty beverage. 

Ice Skating 

Skating under the city lights at the Union Square Ice Rink – located only a mile away from The Harrison – is a truly memorable holiday activity for the whole family. Available until January 17, ice rink hours are from 10am to 11pm daily. Tickets must be purchased online, as there are no on-site sales.

Pier 39 HapPIER Holidays Celebration

Gather your friends and family and experience the wonder of the holiday at Pier39 HapPIER Holidays Celebration. Pier 39 features a nightly show synchronized to holiday music, which comes to live every half hour from 5pm to 10pm until January 9. Adorned with thousands of speciality lights and ornaments, this 60-foot tall white fir is transformed into a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and music.

Residence 39D: Unobstructed Views of the Bay Bridge from Every Room

Posted on by admin

From The Harrison’s remaining available residences comes this north-facing two-bedroom boasting stunning views of the Bay Bridge from every room and an abundance of natural light.  Throughout its 1,297 square-foot layout, 39D is replete with high-end finishes of diagonal-planked Siberian Oak floors, polished white slab Carrara marble countertops and unlacquered Waterworks brass fixtures. Set high above the city, yet moments from San Francisco’s most sought-after restaurants, shops and local attractions, this residence realizes an idyllic life marked by five-star amenities, 24/7 concierge service and inimitable details selected by renowned designer Ken Fulk.

Upon entry through the gorgeous foyer, breathtaking vistas of the bay draw one into the expansive, open-concept dining and living room. From here, one can access the lavish primary bedroom and adjoining spa-like bath, where exquisite design and ample space offers the utmost in comfort. Complete with a state-of-the-art kitchen featuring Studio Becker cabinetry and premium appliances, there’s no shortage of luxury in this sky-high escape. 

This stunning retreat combines an unrivaled interior with a culturally vibrant SoMa locale, set just a stone’s throw away from the city’s best dining, sightseeing and entertainment. Now available for $2,750,000, residence 39D sweeps the busy San Francisco city-dweller to the sky for an idyllic yet modern lifestyle — all complemented by coveted amenities including personalized concierge services. 

5 Local Dessert Shops to Try This Holiday Season

Posted on by admin

The holiday season is in full swing in San Francisco, and what better way to bring in some extra holiday cheer this season than with a delicious holiday treat. From hot chocolate to decadent brownie sundaes, we’ve got you covered. Read on for our list of favorite local dessert shops nearby The Harrison.

Flour and Branch

This women-owned spot is just a five-minute drive from The Harrison. Featuring an extensive array of sweet treats and creative options, Flour and Branch is known for decadent, gourmet baked goods with out-of-the-box flavors. Don’t miss out on  their PB&J cookie or “The Chipper” – a mouth-watering combination of espresso, chocolate chips and smores.

Sweet Glory

Sweet Glory is an artisanal dessert cafe combined with a tea room and coffee shop. The celebrated shop, known for their 20-layer, handcrafted crepe cake, offers a wide variety of uniquely flavored cake layers – from mango and marshmallow to blueberry cheesecake.

Socola Chocolatier

While known most widely for their truffle chocolate boxes, such as The Little Saigon Box, Socola Chocolatier also has some of the best hot chocolate in town. Grab a cup of hot cocoa in store or a Chocolate Barista Kit to make it at home.

Recchiuti Confections

Known for their exquisite chocolate creations, Recchiuti Confections’ handcrafted desserts are meticulously crafted to offer a one of a kind tasting experience. From truffle chocolate boxes to decadent caramels, stop by the store and shop their extensive array of best-selling gifts—just in time for the holidays.

Humphrey Slocombe

Located on Harrison Street, Humphrey Slocombe is perfect for those late-night cravings. Specializing in innovative creations, Humphrey Slocombe offers one-of-a-kind sweets ideal for the adventurous dessert-lover. Try their “Warm brownie sundae, with tahitian vanilla ice cream and caramelized cornflakes. Or, go for their seasonal scoop, “A Christmas Carol,”  made with Victoria Sponge Cake and house-made raspberry jam swirl in creme fraiche.

10 Cafes Serving Up San Francisco’s Best Hot Cocoa

Posted on by

While San Francisco is known for its ultra-healthy, gourmet and locally-sourced cuisine, the city also delivers when it comes to indulgent sweets and treats. In fact, as the air garners a crisp winter chill, San Francisco becomes the ultimate haven for hot chocolate aficionados. While exploring the city with family and friends this holiday season, stay cozy and get into the spirit with a cup of hot cocoa in hand. Whether it’s a classic, spiced or spiked libation you seek, you’ll find that San Francisco satiates any and all chocolate cravings.

Soccola

Just moments from The Harrison lies Socola, a chocolatier and barista that has the friendliest staff in all of SoMa and an unforgettable cup of hot chocolate. Take a seat in their darling, family-run storefront and order a cup of cocoa with a delicious baked good on the side.

Dandelion Chocolate

A bean-to-bar chocolate factory in both the Mission District and Ferry Building, Dandelion Chocolate features a seemingly endless array of hot cocoa recipes. Order their incredible house hot chocolate, spiced mission hot chocolate, Italian-inspired drinking hot chocolate or frozen hot chocolate, served with a cookie and homemade marshmallows.

Tosca Cafe

For those seeking a sweet and spiked hot chocolate, look no further than Tosca Café. Although there’s no espresso added to the mix, their “House Cappuccino”—also known as an adult hot chocolate—is made with Dandelion chocolate ganache, organic milk, Marie Duffau Bas Armagnac and Buffalo Trace Bourbon. Sit back, relax, sip and take in the café’s inspiring old-school ambiance.

Jane on Fillmore

One of the city’s most sought-after cafés and bakeries, Jane on Fillmore pours up a hot chocolate that doubles as a piece of art. Made with equal parts of 63% Guittard chocolate and 72% Valrhona chocolate, this decadent cup of cocoa is topped an artistic design and a homemade marshmallow.

Hot Chocolate

Boulettes Larder

Set within the Ferry Building, Boulettes Larder serves up an unforgettable cup of European-style hot chocolate. Incredibly thick and decadent, this sweet treat is best enjoyed whilst watching the boats float by amongst the bay.

La Oaxaqueña Bakery & Restaurant

Located in the Mission District, La Oaxaqueña serves one of the best Mexican hot chocolates in the city. Pulverized blocks of cacao are mixed with almonds and cinnamon, dissolved in steamed milk, frothed then topped with guajillo chili powder for an extra kick. This sweet and spicy dessert drink is served in a pitcher with two mugs, because they’re confident you’ll order another.

Tartine Bakery & Cafe

Tartine is one of the most coveted bakeries in the city, so it should come as no surprise that their hot chocolate is top-notch. A classic winter libation made with valrhona chocolate, this craveworthy cup of hot cocoa is best served with homemade whipped cream—it’s so good, in fact, that you’ll have to ask for it off menu.

Hot Chocolate

Craftsman and Wolves

Craftsman and Wolves, a contemporary patisserie in the Mission District, makes a valrhona hot chocolate that is served with homemade dark chocolate spearmint marshmallows; the perfect combination of rich cocoa and mint.

Recchiuti Confections

Recchiuti Confections has become so renowned for their European hot chocolate that they decided to ultimately share the recipe. Dark, hot and bittersweet, this rich delicacy is only available seasonally at their store, served with delicious homemade vanilla bean marshmallows.

Caffé Central

Located in the Westfield Shopping Center, Caffé Central serves up a spiced hot chocolate made with TCHO cocoa that’s both organic and fair trade; which means you don’t have to feel guilty about having a cup or two.

Hot Chocolate Race

And, if you find that your sweet tooth isn’t yet satisfied, sign up for the Hot Chocolate 15k/5k to work up an appetite for your favorite winter treat. Coined as “America’s Sweetest Race,” the Hot Chocolate 15k/5k is both a laudable charitable effort, with proceeds donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and a subsequent chocolate extravaganza. On January 13, 2019, runners will hit the streets of San Francisco and delight in a post race party with music, a family-friendly kid zone and—of course—a boundless spread of hot chocolate, chocolate fondue and tasty dippable treats. Register for the event here.

 

*Photos Courtesy of UpOut & Hot Chocolate 15k/5k