Stepping Outside San Francisco

When most people think about San Francisco, visions of the Golden Gate Bridge, trolley cars, and Alcatraz dance in their heads. But there’s so much more to this vibrant city. While it’s true I’ve benefited from visiting this city multiple times over the years, I won’t tell you about the night tour at Alcatraz nor my day trip out to Napa Valley. Those are for another post. This post details lies beneath all of the glitzy glamor of tourist San Francisco.

Luna Park Cafe - Mission District San Francisco

Luna Park Cafe - Mission District San Francisco

There is an area of San Francisco that I had the opportunity to explore on my most recent visit. While it was a cursory at best, the Mission area of San Francisco was certainly worth the sojourn.  It was like stepping out of American and into a whole new world that was not littered with Starbucks on every corner and fast food chains. The Mission District is comprised of a diverse ethnicity and cultural vibe that provides a comfortable, friendly community atmosphere. Historically the Mission District was the location of the Mission San Francisco de Asis and further ruled by Spanish-Mexican cattle barons Valencianos and Guerreros.

While walking around the Mission District, you can’t help but notice all of the amazing restaurants. One night I had the opportunity to have dinner at this authentic Thai after passing by several authentic Asian, Indian, and burger joints. The Mission District just had a authenticity about it that made all of the food look fresh, vibrant, and fun! Even with all the great eats, the Mission Distict is famous for one food delicacy, the burrito. Ay Carumba! While different than Freebirds, the burritos at the Mission are unlike anything I’ve ever had before. They are not to be missed. A trusted source told me, and I agree, that La Taqueria is primo for burritos in the Mission. So if you’re looking for a quick detour from the hustle and bustle of toursity San Francisco, schedule an afternoon to visit the Mission District. It’s well worth the cultural submersion.

Mission District at Night

Mission District at Night

About the Author

About Metalchick