San Francisco

Markus Aarstad: From its roadie porters to the psychedelic guitar-playing frog by the pool, this 44-room 1950s-style motor lodge in the funky Tenderloin neighborhood is a must for rock groupies.

Markus Aarstad: Enjoy the achingly stylish interior, complete with shelves filled with vinyl records, and be blown away by Californian fusion food prepared by chef Trevor Ogden.

Markus Aarstad: The perfect brunch spot, this Bayou restaurant run by New Orleanian Brenda Buenviaje serves scrumptious creole dishes.

Markus Aarstad: White Walls gallery in the Tenderloin is one of San Francisco's best galleries for contemporary art.

Markus Aarstad: Thanks to a massive Californian wine list, this laid-back restaurant is the right spot to sample local grapes, together with a snack or something larger.

AskMen: Why not leave your prejudices behind and see how good vegetarian cuisine can be? With dishes like arborio-crusted tempeh and seared sweet potato griddle cake, you can't go wrong. Read more.

Markus Aarstad: Designed to resemble a speak-easy (one stood here in the 1920s) this is among the city’s hippest bars.

Markus Aarstad: This tiny store, named for owner Mark Cruzada’s (sadly short-lived) dog, is a celebration of all things American. Everything, from the vintage clothing to accessories, is made in the USA.

Travel + Leisure: The Viceroy Hotel Group property attracts a high-tech crowd thanks to its sleek interiors, a game room off the lobby, and a floor-to-ceiling Plinko installation that you can actually play.

Markus Aarstad: Arguably the best Chinese restaurant in San Francisco. Be prepared for long lines.

Markus Aarstad: After hours of walking around Chinatown, a long foot massage is what you need. You’ll find professional treatments, great prices and massages that will relax you.

Michelin Travel & Lifestyle: Locals have been shopping here for house-made pastas, cured meats, Italian groceries, and imported cheeses for over a century. Sandwiches are great for a picnic. - Green Guide Editor

Travel + Leisure: At lunch there is a little menu of simple good things: a sandwich of ripe tomatoes and roasted eggplant; bourbon-laced apple cider to guard against the sea-breeze chill.

Drew Seymour: The Snowy Plover (espresso, absinthe sugar, sparkling H2O, & whipped cream). Quite possibly the funkiest espresso drink you'll ever have.

Markus Aarstad: Feast on dishes such as squash salad and saffron pappardelle with wild mushrooms at this Slow Food restaurant.

Markus Aarstad: This mini-chain of vegan restaurants has two locations in San Francisco. An excellent option for fairly priced food in a friendly atmosphere.

Markus Aarstad: There’s no shortage of fantastic Mexican food in San Francisco, but this vegan cantina is unique.

Markus Aarstad: Chef-owner Charles Phan fuses Vietnamese cuisine with Californian dining.

Markus Aarstad: Japanese cuisine endowed with a vegetarian and vegan sensibility, very fresh and calming.