SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Discover the Bohemian North Beach Lifestyle by walking through pier 39 and uncovering the whimsy and amusement, the pier to plate delicacies, and the authentic European flavors of San Francisco.

San Remo Hotel

Beginning in the 1930s, artists, musicians and poets found a home at the San Remo, some paying their room tab with a painting or two, most moving on when they could find a larger place more suitable for use as a studio. The easygoing environment at the hotel, a perfect fit for the bohemian North Beach lifestyle, attracted creative talent for several decades. Local San Remo Hotel artists like Julius Hatofsky and Ernie Biggs were San Remo guests in the 50s. Hatofsky became an emeritus instructor at the prestigious San Francisco Art Institute after a long career as an artist, and Biggs gained a reputation in New York. Sometimes the less glamorous tenants needed a little looking after. Proprietor Nello Ragghianti, who operated the hotel from 1945 to 1972, would bank their monthly Social Security checks and dole out funds as needed so they weren’t squandered.

Pier to Plate

Since 1965 local fisherman have been bringing their catch to Scoma’s pier. This local favorite is home to fresh seafood in a diverse menu. I dined on a Mediterranean Mussels dish and had a cocktail. While this restaurant is in the higher fine dining end of the spectrum, it was refreshing to see a local favorite still in existence. Its’ longevity shows its’ importance the ever-changing landscape of San Francisco.

European Flavor

If you are visiting San Francisco and suddenly crave some French flavor, head to pier 39 where there is a wide array of shops, restaurants and kitschy experiences. One of my favorites was the Crêpe Cafe, serving authentic crepes in a buttery envelope. I personally had the Florentine, a crepe of Spinach, Diced Red Onion and Feta & Cheddar Cheese. Made for a lightweight but filling lunch and a great alternative to the abundance of fried food.

Experience Whimsy

Experience the whimsical and amusement side of Pier 39 and the bohemian lifestyle, from mirror houses to authentically painted carousels, there was an air of otherworldly in San Francisco. From pier 39 the above carousel is described as, “Handcrafted in Italy, the San Francisco Carousel is intricately hand-painted with famous San Francisco landmarks including the Golden Gate Bridge, Coit Tower, Chinatown, Lombard Street, Alcatraz and the popular California sea lions at PIER 39, making it the only carousel in San Francisco (that we are aware of) that has artistic renderings of the city.”