Do you ever feel like you need to branch out of your neighborhood? As someone who spent five years living in New York, dating someone who lived in a different neighborhood (or, god forbid a different borough) meant you were in a long distance relationship. I sometimes feel like that about San Francisco. Going from Mission to the Outer Sunset is basically a day trip. Should I pack snacks? Water? A change of clothes?
So I made myself a little challenge: I’ll spend a weekend afternoon (or morning) in a new neighborhood, partially to vary my experiences, but also because I’m seeking new coffee shops. So this week, I’m headed to…(drumroll, please)….
Dogpatch! I know, I know, it’s in the title, but let me have this one, okay?
First, we caffeinate (Eric Wolfinger).
Let’s get our shop on (Spicer on 3rd).
Next up, let’s do a little shopping. Spicer on 3rd — conveniently located next door to Neighbor — has something for everyone, from gifts to wedding accessories or a fun new piece of jewelry. Stroll around the store and get lost in little gadgets, but beware: you’re sure to find something you can’t leave without.
Take a stroll through the Museum of Craft and Design. (Lynn Friedman via Flickr).
A new exhibit opens this month at the Museum of Craft and Design, making it the perfect third stop on our morning-slash-afternoon in Dogpatch. See the new exhibit — highlighting digital and handmade architectural pavilions — then hit up the gift shop.
Belly up to the bar (Triple Voodoo Brewery).
Are you as exhausted as I am? I don’t know about you, but I could go for an afternoon drink. Next stop: Triple Voodoo Brewery for a flight of their finest brews. If you happen to find yourself needing a little snack, order food from local restaurants through one of the lovely bartenders. I’m a big fan of cozying up on the leather couches — the perfect spot to relax after a very busy morning.
Hungry? Find all-things delicious at Serpentine (Serpentine).
If you’ve worked up an appetite, now’s the perfect time to hit up Serpentine, the uber-cool industrial eatery that’s the go-to spot for brunch, cocktails, and everything in between. Get there before 2:30 for a smorgasbord of buttermilk donuts (doused in salted caramel) a Serpentine breakfast sandwich (the ciabatta is from Neighbor Bakehouse!), and maybe a side of biscuits and gravy?
Wayne will help you find a new favorite wine (Wayne Garcia).
We came, we saw, we (almost) conquered Dogpatch, but why not bring a little something home with you? Before you say so long, head to DIG Wine and grab a bottle to have for impromptu weekend plans. There are tastings on Saturday and Sunday (score!), and the owner is always quick to provide some recommendations.