Michelle's Must-Haves for May 2024
Fort Mason Farmers Market
So, I’m not much of a cook. I prefer to support local restaurants… BUT, last weekend my family and I visited the Fort Mason Farmers Market and I was definitely inspired! With the sunny days ahead, there is nothing better than running into friends as you choose from some of the best produce, meats, cheeses, fish and other artisan products. You can also pick up breakfast burritos, bagels, dumplings and more. The backdrop of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz makes this shopping experience straight out of a movie.
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Paul Robertson Floral Design
I’ve been the lucky recipient of Paul Robertson’s BEAUTIFUL bouquets a handful of times this year. This San Francisco-staple florist is perfectly located on Clement Street near Arguello. The fresh blooms and stunning design are worth stopping in, whether for yourself or someone else.
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Sonoma Train Town
Are you looking for a kid-friendly day trip (that may leave you perfectly located in Sonoma Square with a glass of wine in hand?) Sonoma Train Town is your spot. Rides for all ages, popcorn galore, and just a quick drive from the city. It’s a perfect day trip for you and the family.
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Purple Protein Smoothie at As Quoted
The gluten-free cafe that is basically a Presidio Heights institution really nails it with this power smoothie. I’m known to be found working from “AQ” on a VERY frequent basis (maybe 4-5 times per week?) and I love basically everything on their menu. As of late, Val and I have been grabbing coffee and the Purple Protein Smoothie, which starts the day off on a healthy (and delicious) course. I highly suggest you try it next time you are on Sacramento Street.
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Hermès | Acquired Podcast
I was sitting on a beach in Mexico earlier this month when a friend told me about a podcast I may enjoy, and boy was he right! Acquired provides a deep dive into a broad array of companies, going all the way back to their beginning. I started with the Hermes podcast and feel like I'm getting a history lesson at the same time as a business lesson. Highly recommend it!
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May, 2023
PlumpJack Golf Link Classic
This is truly an insider tip. Gordon Getty’s private wine collection? A stay at Sea Ranch? A private dinner at Original Joe for 12? The PlumpJack Foundation (yes- that PlumpJack- the famed wine store, Balboa Cafe, etc etc), has an annual golf tournament and cocktail hour that supports breast cancer research. Last year I found the BEST auction lots on their site after their event- serious deals on travel, wine, restaurants, and special opportunities not available to the public.
The auction is open until May 22 - so I highly recommend you take a look and get in on the bidding, all while helping to stop breast cancer!
Nora in the Kitchen
I’m often asked for recommendations for chefs and caterers. I was thrilled to meet Nora Thaler, who does it all… meal prepping and delivery, in-home private cheffing, and catering. Check out her Instagram feed at @nora_inthekitchen. Watch my feed for a few upcoming events with Nora in the Kitchen!
Stick and Ball
I’ve always been a fan of that polo-chic look. It’s been beyond fun to attend and donate to the famed Oyster Cup that used to take place at a friend’s ranch and polo field in Petaluma. But what’s even better is the fashion that was born from those tournaments, and is epitomized in Stick and Ball. A local brand created by Elizabeth Welborn, Stick, and Ball offers luxurious alpaca blankets, elegantly chic ponchos, and handmade leather goods. Check out their pop-up on Fillmore and Greenwich to experience it for yourself!
Leopolds
It’s back! After a three-year closure, Leopolds on Polk Street has re-opened with its prior chef and Carla Suntjens (who you may recognize from Balboa Cafe) at the helm. Run don’t walk to experience this classic Austrian fare and a wide variety of imported beer.
May, 2021
Josephine Fisher Interiors
The white box modern renovation can leave me wanting so much more when it comes to interior design. Enter Josephine Fisher Interiors, the coveted design firm that embraces wallpaper and patterns in the most curated and stylish way. Josie Fisher Freckmann is a San Francisco resident whose Montecito-infused style can be seen in some of the most luxurious homes, and I love getting a taste of it via her Instagram account! Color, detail and the perfectly styled side tables have me coming back for inspiration time and time again.
Cavallo Point Spa
It’s amazing how crossing the Golden Gate Bridge and winding down the secluded road to Cavallo Point can completely transform you into vacation mode. Since they re-opened I’ve been “supporting” this business by booking a monthly massage. Even though some of their amenities are still closed, the experience at Cavallo Point is still completely relaxing and rejuvenating. Gift Certificates to The Spa at Cavallo Point are a perfect gift for Mother’s Day!
Barbara Cobb Sunhats
I was sitting on the deck of the San Francisco Yacht Club with a friend on a particularly sunny day last week. My host had a gorgeous sun hat on, and as she moved her gaze forward to look at the menu I saw one of my most favorite things… a MONOGRAM! Since then I’ve jumped on the Barbara Cobb Sun Hat bandwagon. Yes- Oprah featured her years ago… and what’s good for Oprah is good for me. Each hat is completely custom. I love the white with wide-striped navy blue.
Three Hungry Boys
In need of a simple, delicious, and healthy recipe that satisfies both children and adults? Look no further…. Liza Canada, a San Francisco native, has your menu planned. No one will go hungry with her mealtime suggestions that are not only healthy but provide so much variety in flavor you could make one every night. I recommend her Chicken, quinoa, and chopped salad with pesto vinaigrette, slow cooker BBQ chicken, and turkey bolognese with spaghetti squash.