Crack Chicken

I am a bit hesitant to share this gem here because it is always so crowded to begin with, but I just couldn't hold out on you guys any longer.  When I have a hankering for Chinese food there is really only one place that I want - San Tung.

Outside the store on Irving Street

San Tung is an addiction.  Once you try it, you honestly will crave it all the time.  The first thing you have to order here is the chicken.  You could try nothing else except the dry fried chicken wings (bone in or out) and not miss a thing.

Crack Chicken - you will not be able to stop eating this

However, if you are hungry for more, I recommend the dumplings (pork or shrimp and chive), any kind of noodles (I prefer Chow Mein) as well as the green beans - they are to die for and almost as famous as the chicken.  You really could order anything on the menu.

Some more suggestions: Mushu pork, fried rice, Kung Pao chicken, and Mongolian beef.  Despite sounding like a gringo I will promise you that even the bf orders it (and he's Chinese).

Noodles in Black Bean Sauce with Chicken

Shrimp and Leek Dumplings - A must!

They make thousands of pounds of green beans a week!

Seafood Noodles with Peanut Sauce

Seafood Fried Rice

Tourist Tip: It gets packed so either get a group of 6 and make reservations or call for pick up.  If you don't, you will wait at least an hour during dinner time.  They are also closed on Wednesdays!

A little bit of NOLA in the TL

Brunch is a big deal in San Francisco, a HUGE deal.  Which means there are tons of places to choose from.  However, you will always wait in line.  One of my favorite spots (that is both well priced and delicious) is Brenda's French Soul Food.  Tucked in the quaint Tenderloin, this place might seem a bit out of place, but it is in a generally safe area with ample street parking.  It is also blocks away from the courthouse if you happen to have jury duty (sorry that sucks).

Inside of Brenda's - cute and quaint.

What to get...what not to get.  You cannot miss the biscuits.  Literally.Heaven.  Also the beignets are a huge hit - both savory and sweet.

Beignets Flights

The gumbo is legit and actually quite filling.  A personal favorite of mine is the BFC, but I will be honest, the Fried Chicken is not the best I have ever had.  It is pretty plain, but everything you get with it tastes great.  If it's your first time I would get something else, like the Grillades plate.  Everything you order is A LOT of food so be hungry.

Catfish Eggs Benedict

Grillades, Eggs and Grits, people PLEASE LOOK AT THAT BISCUIT!

You really can't go wrong here. 

Tourist Tip:  Come on a weekday if you can.  It is literally deserted.  On the weekends you will have to wait at least 20-30 minutes, but it is well worth it.

Touristy Things to do in fall in SF...

1. Visit the Opera - August-November
    My girlfriends and I got a great groupon for the Opera and had a dress up night.  The Opera Building is a site to see on its own!  Come early so you have time to walk around the building and see all the views.  Pick an Opera of your choice, and wear your fancy shoes.  Some people dress in black tie, and others wear jeans so you can choose.  And don't worry if you can't understand Italian, apparently these days Opera's come with subtitles.

Inside the Opera House

2. The Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival - September
    An awesome concert in Golden Gate Park.  Even if you don't like bluegrass, it is a great time.  And its free!  Grab a six pack and a blanket and make your way in the afternoon.  Set up camp in front of a stage.  There are lots of food options but the best part is you can bring your own.  Must see!

Blue Grass and a Beautiful Day

3.  Blue Angels Flyover - September/October
     One of the biggest events in San Francisco, the city pretty much explodes with fun.  The weekend started because the military takes their leave in the city for the weekend.  It is now called Fleet Week.  Soldiers, beer, and fly overs from the Blue Angels.  This year it was also America Cup trials, so it was a bit of a disaster.  The best seat in the house is down by the water, either on the Marina Green or at Fisherman's wharf.  The jets are so loud that you may jump out of your seat!

Over the city...Photo from the Chronicle because it flew by too quickly

4.  Macy's Christmas Tree Lighting -Thanksgiving
    Christmas is THEE best holiday of the year.  Every year Macy's decorates their store and Union Square.  On Black Friday they have a big tree lighting ceremony with Carolers and a count down to the lights.  It is a bit like Disneyland, and I would only recommend if you have kids with you.  Its VERY crowded.  But for those not into Tree Lighting Ceremonies, visit Macy any other day and see the puppies and kitties they put in their window.  Too cute for words, AND if you love them you can adopt them!  Macy's works with SPCA to help these poor animals find a home for the holidays.

I love Christmas!

Tourist Tip: Wear good walking shows when in San Francisco.