One look at your MUNI bus ticket, printed in soy ink, says something about San Francisco’s environmental awareness. With extensive public transportation, nearly eighty vegetarian and vegan restaurants, and a multitude of farmer’s markets, street fairs, and outdoor activities, Bay City truly shines.
Eating
Greens Restaurant
On the marina facing the Golden Gate Bridge, Greens is perfect for sunset dining on Chef Annie Somerville’s organic menus inspired by Mediterranean, Mexican, and Southwestern flavors.
Fort Mason Building A; (415) 771-6222
Jardiniére
This elegant eatery serves organic French-Californian cuisine from local farmers, fishers, and ranchers. Nearly 85 percent of the restaurant’s waste is recycled or composted.
300 Grove Street (at Franklin); (415) 861-5555
Sleeping
Fairmont San Francisco
A forerunner in environmental measures, this premier hotel recycles, composts, and donates food and furniture to local nonprofits.
950 Mason Street; 415) 772-5000
Green Gulch Farm Zen Center
Just north of the city, this Buddhist Soto Zen center offers meditation, philosophy lessons, a guesthouse and conference center, organic farm, and garden.
On Muir Beach; (415) 383-3134
Exploring
Golden Gate National Recreation Area
With 75,398 acres of land and water, this is one of the world’s largest urban national parks—complete with hiking and biking. It’s home to 1,273 plant and animal species.
(415) 561-4700
Otsu Vegan Boutique
Shop for hard-to-find vegan items such as shoes, belts, wallets, and bags.
3253 16th Street; (415) 255-7900
Relaxing
Conservatory of Flowers
Home to more than 10,000 international plants, this stately Victorian greenhouse is tucked picturesquely into Golden Gate Park.
JFK Drive; (415) 666-7001
Sacred Space Healing Center
This retreat and day spa features massage, hydrotherapy, internal cleansing, yoga, Middle Eastern dance, and more.
776 Haight Street; (415) 431-0878