Essentials for Planning a Group Food Crawl in San Francisco
For a group of friends who all love to eat, there is no greater adventure than a group food crawl. Friendships are strengthened with every bite. But planning a food crawl can be quite a task when you do not know the essentials.
Of course you would want the trip to be perfect, so you have to plan everything out down to the last detail. For starters, you need to book your ride. When traveling in a large group, it would be wise to rent a bus or minibus with a driver. That way, you would not have to worry about the ride, the route, and the parking.
San Francisco is a great place to have a food crawl, whether you’re one for burritos and tamales or a seafood lover. Because this place is of diverse cultures, you can be sure that there would always be something for everyone.
Now here are the essentials for planning a group food crawl in San Francisco:
Know the number of people going on the trip
Knowing the number of people will help you find the perfect ride for your tour. You can choose to rent a minibus or a coach bus. However you would like to travel is up to you. Just inform the bus rental company of the number of people and the places you plan to visit. Also, knowing the number of people will be important in booking reservations in restaurants or in some restaurants that offer group discounts.
Know where you’re going
Of course, since the essence of the trip is food, make some research ahead of time about the best and most famous restaurants in San Francisco. To help you, here are some of the most popular food destinations in San Francisco:
Gourmet Ghetto (North Berkeley)
The area along Shattuck Avenue from Rose Street to Hearts Avenue is a food haven for all food lovers. The area became popular because they have been known to serve organic healthy food.
Philz Coffee (1600 Shattuck Ave)
A very good way to start the trip would be to have fresh brewed coffee in this wonderful café.
Saul’s Deli (1475 Shattuck Ave)
Taste Jewish and Eastern European cuisine at this place. Have a try of their pastrami, which they make themselves.
Chez Pannise (1517 Shattuck Ave)
Have a meal at this restaurant and know the beautiful story behind its name. They also have a café if you are planning to have just a small snack.
The Cheese Board Collective (1504 Shattuck Ave)
Try something new like a meatless pizza. You’d be surprised how good it actually tastes. And also have a try at one of the 400 cheeses available.
The Mission District
Originally known as the “Mission Lands”, this part of San Francisco is also teaming with Victorian Mansions and of course food places.
La Taqueria (2899 Mission St.)
If you are one of the many people who love burritos and tacos, this is the place to be with its wide selection of Mexican food.
Lolinda (2518 Mission St.)
An amazing Argentinean steakhouse that offers menu that are a fusion of Latin-American flavors and Californian spirit, they arekKnown for cooking their meats perfectly over the wood-fired asador.
Dandelion Chocolates (740 Valencia St.)
At this place, it is totally fine to give in to the sweet temptations. This bean-to-bar chocolate factory is wonderland for all chocolate lovers.
The North Beach “Little Italy”
Known as “Little Italy,” this area prides itself with a wide selection of Italian restaurants, serving authentic Italian delicacies.
The Italian Homemade Company (716 Columbus Ave)
Here in this restaurant, you pick your own pasta and sauce. Not only that, they offer a wide-ranging menu of Italian dishes.
Mama’s (1701 Stockton St.)
For over 50 years, this restaurant has been serving guests, so it’s no wonder why stepping inside seems like stepping into a time machine.
Tony’s Pizza Napoletana
Who wouldn’t want a taste of a pizza made by the world’s 13-time pizza champion, Tony Gemignani? Get a chance to try some of their genuine Italian dinners, too.
Check schedules
You have to know the business hours of the restaurants you’re trying to visit to make sure that you won’t miss the chance to taste those famous dishes. And also do take the time to know about their busiest hours if you prefer to avoid long lines and crowds.
Estimate and save
From all the research you have done, you would probably have a vague idea of how much you would probably be spending. Although optional, you could choose to start saving ahead of time. That way, it wouldn’t be such a hassle saving time and time again during your trip.
Food is always best when shared, especially with the people who are closest to you and people you care about. So have a blast on your trip!
