Lock In Your Spot On The "Nice" List

Santa-approved nonprofits that are deserving of your donations

The pumpkin spice lattes are in full effect and holiday cheer is just around the corner. As we cruise into November, we enter the time of year when giving our money, time or resources is at the forefront of our minds. Here in the Bay Area, we have a plethora of people and organizations doing beautiful, important work in the community. We thought we'd highlight a few smaller ones that may not be on your radar.

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Food Runners

Nothing goes to waste

via Website

It's a figure almost too massive to comprehend: more than 100 billion pounds of food is wasted every year in the United States. One big reason for that is that grocery stores, restaurants, hotels, corporate cafeterias and other businesses are required to throw out perfectly good perishable food within a certain amount of time. That’s where Food Runners comes in. Partnering with more than 450 restaurants, caterers, farmers markets and more, the organization delivers more than 5,000 meals a day thanks to volunteers who donate time, money and food, and local shelters, which distribute the meals to our hungry fellow citizens.

 

Samaritan House

Neighbor helping neighbor

via Facebook

The concept of neighbors helping neighbors embodies the work done by Samaritan House in San Mateo. This nonprofit seems to have a program for everything — free clinics, housing, clothing, food services and one-on-one case management to help people get back on their feet. The personal, comprehensive approach helps Samaritan House achieve its mission to "preserve dignity, promote self-sufficiency and provide hope." There are various ways to get involved, from lending your time to shopping via Amazon Smile.

 

Youth Radio

Find your voice

via Facebook

You’ve probably heard their segments on KQED and KALW. The stories are so well done that you likely couldn't tell where Youth Radio ended and NPR began. It was founded in 1993 as an outlet for young people to process their thoughts, feelings and experiences as well as tell their own stories. Available to diverse, low-income high school students at no cost, Youth Radio offers classes and internships to teach motivated teens the ins and outs of journalism, music, media and creative expression. Last year, its students had a 97 percent high school graduation rate and an 87 percent college enrollment rate. How can you help out? First of all, tune in — but you can also donate.

 

Bay Area Outreach & Recreation Program

Helping our neighbors with physical disabilities get active

via Website

We came across the Bay Area Outreach & Recreation Program, aka BORP, during its annual Revolution Ride and Festival this September. The fundraising cycling event in sun-drenched Sonoma wine country is just one of many ways BORP helps people with physical disabilities connect, stay active and have fun. Throughout the year, the 40-year-old organization provides programs like adaptive cycling, outdoor adventures, adult wheelchair basketball, sled hockey and so much more. Check out the many ways to donate.

 

 

Muttville

Throw a dog a bone

via Facebook

Maybe you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but you can show him lots of love. Many healthy, happy senior dogs are euthanized because their guardians dump them and other people are unwilling to adopt them. That’s where the fine folks at Muttville come in. After rescuing senior dogs from high-kill shelters, they work to adopt them into loving forever homes, where they can live out their golden years with love and comfort. That’s where you come in. Get involved by volunteering or donating money — and, of course, you can adopt a loving canine companion into your own family.

Article and images sourced from http://www.savoteur.com/usa/lock-in-your-spot-on-the-nice-list

So You Want To Stay Fit While Traveling

How one writer tried and failed to do so in three (and a half?) cities

by Bella Sovmiz

You diligently pack your sneakers into your carry-on bag. You dutifully check to make sure the hotel has a "fitness center." You sincerely plot a daily jogging route through the park at your destination. So — how has that been working out for you? Probably a little something like this....

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I find it most difficult to maintain any form of healthy living when traveling. I'm very diligent with my gym routine at home and stick mostly to a healthy diet. But the minute I check my luggage, I throw caution to the wind and simply don’t seem to be able to contain myself, even if I mean well and plan for success. Let’s see how I did in 2016, shall we? 

France

Destination: The Alps

The plan: Skiing to tone legs and yoga at a wellness retreat.
What really happened: Without even getting into après ski and all that it entails, I can tell you that I failed.

via Facebook

You may have already read how my first ski trip went. I thought I would lose weight and tone up just because of the effort it took me to put on the skis, let alone barrel down the beautiful snowy slopes. But despite the excellent workout that skiing offers and the wonderful morning yoga classes at Chalet Rosière, I dropped the ball in the diet department of the trip. I became acquainted with raclette and figured out that French wine from a supermarket in France is way better than French wine back home. Turns out skiing is an excellent pastime, especially if you treat yo’ self after each and every session with a hearty meal and several glasses of Bordeaux in the hot tub. Unsurprisingly, this routine does not really help one stay in shape.

My advice: By all means get yourself a good ski instructor, but make sure your eating plan is on point, too. Chalet Rosière has introduced catered detox packages this season, and other retreats are bound to follow suit. I've learned that I would be smart to trust my diet to the professionals while traveling.

The Netherlands

Destination: Amsterdam

The plan: Cycling may way around town and daily visits to the celebrity-favored gym.
What really happened: Despite laps in the glorious pool and lots of bicycling, I barely managed to stay in shape.

via Website

The luxurious Conservatorium Hotel is a landmark of the city and has hosted the likes of Rihanna. Most importantly, down in its cavernous belly there is a truly state-of-the-art health club, the Akasha Holisting Wellbeing Centre, hidden away from prying eyes. This is where the affluent and beautiful of Amsterdam come to swim, stretch and run in peace. As an avid gym goer, I had to try it myself, going between TRX classes and high-tech weight stations. Outside, we hopped on the hotel's free bikes to explore canals, the museum square, the Jordaan area — and the carbs.

My advice: Plan your meals, because temptation is everywhere. I mean, they even have waffle popsicles! Had I stayed at the hotel during mealtimes, my newly vegan self could happily indulge in exquisitely healthy creations, of which the brasserie had plenty. And meat eaters would surely appreciate the lean cuts of Wagyu beef in Schilo van Coevorden’s Taiko.

Belgium

Destination: Brussels

The plan: Working out with a view.
What really happened: What can I say? Carbs found me once again.

via Website

In my experience, hotel gyms are either ultra-sleek facilities fit for NASA training or basement cupboards with an ancient treadmill. The Hotel in Brussels looked promising. Have you ever worked out on the 23rd floor, overlooking the de facto capital of Europe? You should try it. It’s fantastic. The problem is that right next to our suite was the private bar with snacks and champagne on tap. You’d think a person whose closet overflows with fitness clothes could show self-restraint, but you would be wrong. And let's not even talk about what happened once I actually left the hotel. Needless to say, the land that quite possibly gave the world French fries abounds with options.

My advice: Listen to your trainer/the internet on this one: You really can’t out-excercise a poor diet. Stay away from excessive food and drink and follow the cheat meal policy when traveling. 

United Kingdom

Destination: London

via Facebook

The plan: As I pack my suitcase, I wonder if Hyde Park and its running trails carry enough appeal to pack my trainers once again. I may do it just for the experience, but then I know too well that once I find myself in the food hall of Harrods, amid the Christmas decor of the world’s most famous department store, I will give in. I will mutter “We only live once” and run off to explore all the vegan delicacies I know await me in one of my favorite destinations in the world.

What really happened: TBD, but ... Harrods.

My advice: Traveling should please all your senses. It just so happens that my sense of taste is not one I wish to deny, either.

Article and images sourced from http://www.savoteur.com/world/so-you-want-to-stay-fit-while-traveling?utm_medium=email 

San Francisco Again Named Nation’s Hottest — and Quickest-Paced — Housing Market in October

U.S. homes sold slightly quicker this year in October than they did one year ago, particularly in San Francisco, which once again ranks as the country’s hottest real estate market.

Realtor.com’s latest analysis of the 20 most in-demand places for home shoppers pegs San Francisco as the hottest U.S. market in October, based on the fastest pace of sales as well as the most listing views on its website. The City by the Bay ranked as the nation’s hottest market in September and for most of the past year and a half, although the Vallejo-Fairfield metropolitan area claimed the top spot for four consecutive months earlier this summer.

Homes in the San Francisco metropolitan area — which includes Oakland, Hayward, and surrounding communities — found a buyer in an average of 34 days in October, the fewest days on market of the 20 cities included in the report. Realtor.com did not include this statistic for individual submarkets for the past few months, but its October 2015 analysis of the same kind found that homes in San Francisco sold in an average of 33 days. With a median list price of $830,000 last month, San Francisco properties are hitting the market 7.8 percent higher than they did one year earlier.

Vallejo fell one spot from September to the No. 3 position. Homes in the Solano County suburbs are selling in an average of 45 days at nearly half the price as in San Francisco, listing for an average of $420,000.

California real estate markets have dominated Realtor.com’s hot list since its inception, and October brought more of the same, with 11 of the state’s cities finding the top 20. San Diego ranked No. 6, followed by San Jose (No. 7), Stockton (No. 9), Modesto (No. 11), Santa Rosa (No. 13), Sacramento (No. 14), Eureka (No. 15), Fresno (No. 17), and Santa Cruz (No. 20). San Jose and Santa Cruz were the hot-list’s two most expensive markets, with respective median list prices of $907,000 and $863,500.

Continued intense competition for California homes mirrors national trends, as the U.S. median list price rose 8 percent on an annual basis to $250,000, a new peak for October. In a statement accompanying the report, Realtor.com Chief Economist Jonathan Smoke says that demand for real estate is stronger than usual this fall, causing inventory to drop by 11 percent since October 2015 and homes to sell 2 percent faster.

(Photo: Flickr/Chris Chabot)

Article and images sourced from http://blog.pacificunion.com/san-francisco-again-named-nations-hottest-and-quickest-paced-housing-market-in-october/

Planning a Party? The Best Private Dining Rooms in San Francisco

Want something a bit more special this holiday season for you and your friends? Nab a reservation at one of these choice private dining rooms in San Francisco. Clink, clink.

1300 on Fillmore
Capacity: 22
The jazz inspired spot in the Fillmore has a high-ceilinged private dining room separated from the main dining area by soundproof sliding glass doors, a mirrored wall, and its own volume and temperature controls. // 1300 Fillmore (Nopa), 1300fillmore.com

AbsintheCourtesy of Absinthe
Absinthe
Capacity: 45
The upscale Hayes Valley mainstay has a private dining space with a separate entrance, its own bar, coat room, and restrooms. Decorated similarly to the main restaurant with dark wood, paintings, and old-school charm, the menu offers French fare and a raw bar. // 398 Hayes (Hayes Valley), absinthe.com

ABV
Capacity: 14, 25
The cleanly decorated Mission gastropub dedicated to simple and delicious food and drinks allows you to rent out their mezzanine for dinner or cocktail tastings. // 3174 16th Street (Mission), abvsf.com

Alexander's Steakhouse, The Boardroom
Capacity: 18, 25
The smallest of the private rooms available, The Boardroom features exposed brick walls, a flatscreen TV, and Japanese screen doors that can be closed for separation from the main dining room. // 448 Brannan (SoMa), alexanderssteakhouse.com/sanfrancisco

Alexander's Steakhouse, The Mezzanine
Capacity: 18, 30
Overlooking the restaurant from the second floor, the Mezzanine can be closed off from main room with heavy curtains and screens. // 448 Brannan (SoMa), alexanderssteakhouse.com/sanfrancisco

Alexander's Steakhouse, The Wine Library
Capacity: 40, 70
With its own sound system and bar, this room on the lower level of the restaurant features, as one might guess from the name, floor-to-ceiling displays of their wine. // 448 Brannan (SoMa), alexanderssteakhouse.com/sanfrancisco

Beretta
Capacity: 40
The private downstairs dining room of Beretta is available for parties with sconces, exposed brick, and dark wood wainscoting giving the place a warmly upscale feel for any event. // 1199 Valencia Street (Mission), berettasf.com

Beretta
Capacity: 32, 40
The Boudin space on the wharf with their museum and glass showroom bakery also has a private dining room with a tiled fireplace and view of the bay. // 160 Jefferson (Fisherman's Wharf), boudinbakery.com/at-the-wharf

Boulevard, L'Avenue
Capacity: 64
In the lower level of the restaurant, this private dining room on the lower floor has art inspired by the chef's original restaurant (of the same name as this room). // 1 Mission (Embarcadero), boulevardrestaurant.com

Boulevard Wine VaultCourtesy of Boulevard
Boulevard, Wine Vault
Capacity: 14
Like something you'd expect in Napa or Tuscany, the Wine Vault is an intimate setting with a curved stone roof and Boulevard's wine selection lining the walls. // 1 Mission (Embarcadero), boulevardrestaurant.com

Central Kitchen
Capacity: 32, 45
The upstairs area of Central Kitchen bears an industrial motif, with windows overlooking 20th St and can host either dinners or cocktail events. // 3000 20th Street (Mission), centralkitchensf.com

Churchill's The Office
Capacity: 120
Set above the original Duboce Triangle bar, The Office is the unattached, private upstairs bar with a shuffleboard table, floor-to-ceiling picture of a beach at sunset, three TVs, and comfy, brown leather chairs to relax in. // 194 Church (Duboce Triangle), theoffice-sf.com

Overhead of The Garden at Del PopoloCourtesy of Eric Wolfinger and Del Popolo
Del Popolo
Capacity: 32, 45
The newly completed Garden at Del Popolo offers a gorgeous outdoor space adjacent to the restaurant designed specifically for private events. In good weather, the dining is al fresco, but if conditions warrant, socializing and dining can take place in a walled and pre-heated tent. // 855 Bush (TenderNob), delpopolosf.com

Dirty Habit, Rickhouse Room
Capacity: 12
Available as a boardroom during the day, this private room adjacent to the restaurant also can host dinners, provided you like leather office seats. // 12 4th Street (SoMa), dirtyhabitsf.com

E & O Asian Kitchen, Pearl Room
Capacity: 14
A carved wooden door separates this blue and green private room from the restaurant with a long wooden table and TV with an A/V hookup. // 314 Sutter (Union Square), eosanfrancisco.com

Cinnabar Room at E & O Asian KitchenCourtesy of E & O Asian Kitchen
E & O Asian Kitchen, Cinnabar Room
Capacity: 54, 80
Below the actual restaurant, this space named for its red decor has a 60' flatscreen and its own private bar perfect for any party. // 314 Sutter (Union Square), eosanfrancisco.com

EPIC Roasthouse
Capacity: 70, 120
Situated above the restaurant, the Bay Room at EPIC boasts floor to ceiling windows and its own mezzanine with views of the bay, plus a devoted kitchen and chef for any events. // 369 The Embarcadero (Embarcadero), epicsteak.com

Farallon, Beluga Room
Capacity: 96
Decorated like a luxury, old-fashioned ocean-liner's ballroom, the Beluga room is the largest of the private rooms available at Farallon. // 450 Post #4 (TenderNob), farallonrestaurant.com

Farallon, Osetra Room
Capacity: 32
This room boasts views of Union Square through the 40ft windows, along with fanciful porthole paintings adorning the walls. // 450 Post #4 (TenderNob), farallonrestaurant.com

Farallon's Servuga RoomCourtesy of Farallon
Farallon, Sevruga Room
Capacity: 16
With a hand-blown glass aquarium, wine library, and candlelit fireplace, this is the cozy room is the smallest of the three available at Farallon. // 450 Post #4 (TenderNob), farallonrestaurant.com

Flour + Water's Dough Room
Capacity: 14
By day, it's the prep area for F+W, and by night this room transforms into an intimate dining experience that truly feels like you're having dinner in a (very skilled) friend's kitchen. // 2401 Harrison (Mission), flourandwater.com

Foreign Cinema, The Mezzanine
Capacity: 40, 50
Overlooking the main dining area, this semi-private mezzanine is adjacent to the projection room, perfect for pre-dinner cocktails. // 2534 Mission (Mission), foreigncinema.com

Modernism West GalleryCourtesy of Foreign Cinema
Foreign Cinema, Modernism West Gallery
Capacity: 60, 100
Foreign Cinema's own modern art gallery has 15' ceilings, rotating art, and its own surround system and full bar for private parties. // 2534 Mission (Mission), foreigncinema.com

Hakkasan, Jade Room
Capacity: 12
The main feature of this green, private dining room is the old-school large central table complete with lazy Susan for sharing meals with your guests. // 1 Kearny (Union Square), hakkasan.com

Hakkasan, Dragon Room
Capacity: 28, 40
The larger, semi-private dining room is separated from the main restaurant by a semi-see-through gold, metal-work screened wall and can host cocktail parties or dinners. // 1 Kearny (Union Square), hakkasan.com

Harris' Restaurant, The Board Room
Capacity: 12
This intimate room is set around a large circular table with a brass lamp chandelier and dark wood wainscoting. // 2100 Van Ness (Nob Hill), harrisrestaurant.com

Harris' Restaurant, The Library
Capacity: 20
Celebrate an event in this library complete with a fireplace and accompanying cowboy painting hanging over the mantle. // 2100 Van Ness (Nob Hill), harrisrestaurant.com

Harris' Restaurant, The Skylight Dining Room
Capacity: 72, 100
The largest of the dining rooms is adorned with the titular skylight and mahogany wainscoting, with a private bar, plus a podium and screen provided at no additional fee. // 2100 Van Ness (Nob Hill), harrisrestaurant.com

Jardinière, The Wine Room
Capacity: 15
Exposed brick walls, an oversized mirror, and mahogany wine racks surround with cozy private dining room. // 300 Grove (Hayes Valley), jardiniere.com

Jardinière, The Franklin Room
Capacity: 50, 75
Bordered by the restaurant's cheese cavern this private dining room with dark hardwood floors and exposed brick can be closed off to the main area via platinum colored drapes. // 300 Grove (Hayes Valley), jardiniere.com

Kuleto's Italian Restaurant, The Board Room
Capacity: 12
With an accompanying adjacent bar and reception area, this small room with huge mirrors and dark wood paneling is great for a small group. // 221 Powell (TenderNob), kuletos.com

Kuleto's Italian Restaurant, The Caruso Room
Capacity: 28, 40
Also adorned with mirrors and with an included bar and reception area, this is the middle-sized of the three private dining options. // 221 Powell (TenderNob), kuletos.com

Kuleto's Italian Restaurant, The Machiavelli Room
Capacity: 72, 100
With recessed ceilings and paintings adorning the walls with the usual Kuleto's decor, this menacingly named room is the largest of the private party options. // 221 Powell (TenderNob), kuletos.com

Patio a La MarCourtesy of La Mar
La Mar, Patio a La Mar
Capacity: 100, 150
The outdoor patio with waterfront views of Treasure Island and the bay is covered, heated, and available for private parties. // Pier 1.5 The Embarcadero (Embarcadero), lamarsf.com

Lolinda, Mezzanine Level
Capacity: 125
Overlooking the main restaurant, the mezzanine at Lolinda can be bought out for private events with its own bar and restrooms. // 2518 Mission (Mission), lolindasf.com

Lolinda, El Techo
Capacity: 80
One of the city's best rooftops with views of the Mission and city, its own bar, covered and heated areas is protected from the wind by translucent plastic walls and available for buyouts. // 2518 Mission (Mission), lolindasf.com

Luce
Capacity: 16
This room decorated with hanging metal spheres and separated from the main dining area by a sheer curtain can do private tastings and specialized menus. // 888 Howard (SoMa), lucewinerestaurant.com

The Patio at MarloweCourtesy of Marlowe
Marlowe
Capacity: 16
The outdoor patio at Marlowe is available for private parties, with a living wall and hanging succulents, hanging outdoor lights, and, most importantly, protection from the weather, it's perfect for smaller parties. // 500 Brannan (SoMa), marlowesf.com

McCormick & Kuletos, Alcatraz Room
Capacity: 60
On the highest floor of the restaurant, this room features wood paneling and tortoiseshell lamps, and is adjacent to the Fiesta Deck, that can be used as an additional cocktail/seating area. // 900 North Point (Fisherman's Wharf), mccormickandschmicks.com

McCormick & Kuletos, Dolphin Room
Capacity: 60, 100
With its own separate entrance through the room's private patio area, this private dining room has mosaic-tiled columns and views of Beach Street. // 900 North Point (Fisherman's Wharf), mccormickandschmicks.com

McCormick & Kuletos, Bayview Room
Capacity: 90, 100
This mahogany walled private dining room features a gorgeous view of the bay through expansive windows and has its own bar. // 900 North Point (Fisherman's Wharf), mccormickandschmicks.com

McCormick & Kuletos, The Captain's Room
Capacity: 120, 125
This room has more views of the bay through large windows that won't be missed by any diners thanks to strategically placed mirrors at the back of the room. // 900 North Point (Fisherman's Wharf), mccormickandschmicks.com

One Market Private Dining RoomCourtesy of One Market
One Market, The Club Room
Capacity: 40, 60
Off the main dining area, this private room with cherry wood trim and upholstered chairs can be closed off with opaque-glass paneled doors. // 1 Market (Embarcadero), onemarket.com

One Market, The Atrium Room
Capacity: 40, 60
A retractable wall of glass paneled doors separates this private dining area from the Cesar Pelli Pavilion, allowing in natural light during daytime events. // 1 Market (Embarcadero), onemarket.com

Original Joe's, Salesian Room
Capacity: 30, 40
In the back of the restaurant, this room lines with tufted green vinyl walls also features a vintage Joe's sign, still bearing scars from the fire that took the first location. // 601 Union (North Beach), originaljoessf.com

Original Joe's, Tony Bennett Room
Capacity: 30, 40
Watched over by art deco mermaids swimming on walls of aqua tiles, this room named after another SF mainstay has a window gazing out onto Washington Square Park. // 601 Union (North Beach), originaljoessf.com

Pabu Private Dining AreaCourtesy of Pabu
Pabu, Oniichan & Otouto Combined Rooms
Capacity: 22, 25
Available for dinners or cocktail affairs, this back private dining room decorated with traditional Japanese-style paper walls and artwork is separated from the main restaurant by sliding paper doors. // 101 California (Financial District), michaelmina.net

Palio d'Asti, 6 Enoteca della Douja
Capacity: 40
This room with a 200 square feet mural of the Palio and exposed concrete walls functions as a private bar and restaurant for parties during the evening. // 640 Sacramento (Financial District), paliodasti.com

Palio d'Asti, San Pietro Room
Capacity: 50
Decorated to look much like the main dining room with Italian stone-like elements, this room also has floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the alley and a small private patio. // 640 Sacramento (Financial District), paliodasti.com

The Eden RoomCourtesy of Park Tavern's
Park Tavern's Eden Room
Capacity: 50, 80
Situated on the mezzanine overlooking the popular North Beach restaurant, this 900-square-foot area can accommodate cocktail parties or seated dinners with complete A/V capabilities. Park Tavern's dedicated private dining space was recently redone with lacquered baby blue walls, a beautiful brass bar, and a gallery wall of found vintage artwork. // 1652 Stockton (North Beach), parktavernsf.com

Perbacco Ristorante & Bar, Barolo
Capacity: 18, 25
This smaller private dining area has views of the kitchen and the temperature-controlled wine cellar. // 230 California (Financial District), perbaccosf.com

Perbacco Ristorante & Bar, Barbaresco
Capacity: 40, 70
Able to be separated from the main restaurant by heavy curtains, this semi-private dining room is located on the mezzanine level. // 230 California (Financial District), perbaccosf.com

Prospect, The Candace Room
Capacity: 50, 65
Named after the whaling ship excavated in the construction of the towers, the Candace has floor-to-ceiling windows and walls lined with brown velvet, plus its own private bar and reception area. // 300 Spear (Embarcadero), prospectsf.com

Roka Akor, Shisetsu
Capacity: 16
Separated from the main dining room by glass walls with a view of the central robata grill, the Shisetsu area has A/V hookup for use with their 6' projection screen. // 801 Montgomery (Jackson Square), rokaakor.com/san-francisco

Scala's Renaissance RoomCourtesy of Scala's Bistro
Scala's Bistro, Renaissance Room
Capacity: 60
With art deco chandeliers and a sepia mural depicting a busy restaurant, this private dining room offers customizable menus for your group experience. // 432 Powell (Union Square), scalasbistro.com

Scala's Bistro, Wine Salon
Capacity: 30
Wine racks line the wall of this French cellar, where a metal ceiling and old-school European posters, perfect for a classier event. // 432 Powell (Union Square), scalasbistro.com

Schroeder's
Capacity: 12
Set apart from the main dining hall by a sheer curtain, the semi-private dining room has three German murals and antique lamps and rosewood walls that really bring home the German beer hall feel. 240 Front (Financial District), schroederssf.com

Spruce
Capacity: 14, 20, 40
Choose from the menu of the day or have chef Mark Sullivan prepare a custom menu for your special occasion. This Michelin-starred restaurant of note features three rooms— the Library seats up to 20 guests, the Shiraga, up to 14 guests, and the Laurel room, up to 40. // 3640 Sacramento (Presidio Heights), sprucesf.com


Town Hall
Capacity: 40, 80
This upstairs dining room in the back of the restaurant has large windows overlooking the street, exposed brick, cream wainscoting, modern art adorning the walls, and a reception area. // 342 Howard (SoMa), townhallsf.com

Tosca Cafe
Capacity: 20, 35
The backroom at Tosca is legendary. (Read more about it here.) You can also score a spot in the Chef's Lounge located upstairs above the kitchen. // 242 Columbus (North Beach), toscacafesf.com

Trou Normand, The Butcher's Room
Capacity: 12, 20
Situated in the center of the restaurant, this semi-private space looks onto the kitchen and features a custom walnut butcher's block for it's main dining table. // 140 New Montgomery (SoMa), trounormandsf.com

The Patio at Trou NormandCourtesy of Trou Normamd
Trou Normand, The Patio
Capacity: 52, 100+
Situated in the courtyard of 140 new Montgomery, with a steel and glass awning, this heated patio also has retractable canvas walls for all weather and a private bar that can be added upon request. // 140 New Montgomery (SoMa), trounormandsf.com

Twenty Five Lusk
Capacity: 35, 40
Located on the lower floor of this SOMA restaurant, this private dining area is closed off with sound-proof glass walls and features decor similar to the rest of space, with expose brick and wooden beams. It comes equipped with an LCD projector, a drop-down screen, Blu-ray DVD player, WiFi connectivity, and cable TV. // 25 Lusk (SoMa), 25lusk.com

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This post was updated in November 2016.

Article and images sourced from http://www.7x7.com/the-best-private-dining-rooms-in-san-francisco-1787029782.html

The Coziest Bars In San Francisco, By Neighborhood

The Bitter End. (Photo: delvalle/Instagram)

Sat. October 29, 2016, 3:12pm

by Hoodline Staff 
@Hoodline 

neighborhoods

Citywide

"San Francisco summer" was cut tragically short this year, and our October surprise has instead been plenty of rain—great for the drought, but not so great for lifting spirits.

So we polled Hoodline's hardworking crew of neighborhood editors to recommend the best bars in their neighborhoods for a well-deserved drink in a cozy atmosphere. Here are the spots to hit when you want to curl up by the fire, sip on something strong, and let your cares melt away. 

Bayview

Gratta Wines' dimly lit and intimate Bayview tasting room (5273 3rd St.) features several homemade wines created by area resident Barbara Gratta. If you're looking for a nice place to mix and mingle with your neighbors, then this is the place to be. Every Thursday, they do a pairing special with a Bayview-based restaurant, and the prices are reasonable. —Meaghan Mitchell, Bayview/Fillmore neighborhood editor

Castro 

“Weather” the rain has you dwelling on what could have been or reveling in schadenfreude, Twin Peaks Tavern’s (401 Castro St.) big glass windows provide the perfect vantage point to take in all that the seasonal wetness has to offer. Ideally located next to the bus stop, Castro Station, and F-line, why not just order a classic cocktail, nestle into one of the bar’s cushioned seats, and see where the night (read: afternoon) takes you. —Shane Downing, Castro neighborhood editor

Cole Valley

Why get wet waiting for the N-Judah or one of the many buses that passes through Cole Valley? Pop into the recently renovated Finnegan's Wake (937 Cole St.) to feed the jukebox, enjoy an adult beverage, and listen to the pitter-patter of raindrops on the skylight over the pool table. —Walter Thompson, Inner Sunset/Cole Valley neighborhood editor

Inside Finnegan's Wake. | PHOTO: WALTER THOMPSON/HOODLINE

Divisadero

If a wood-paneled room clad with taxidermy, woodsy tapestries, and paintings of long-dead English royalty isn't the perfect place to weather a storm on Divisadero, then we don't know what is. Dry in the rain and warm in the winter, The Page (298 Divisadero St) never fails to deliver as cozy haunt with strong beer and an excellent selection of whiskey. —Stephen Jackson, Divisadero neighborhood editor

Duboce Triangle

Make yourself at home (but keep your pants on) at The Residence (718 14th St.) during Duboce Triangle’s next rain shower. Sure, the plush Victorian-style decor and eccentric upholstery might remind you of the home of an Elizabethan spinster, but the delectable cocktail menu translates nicely into a lengthy visit, and the dim lighting is forgiving of even the most rain-soaked of patrons. —Shane Downing, Castro neighborhood editor

The seating area at The Residence. | PHOTO: ALEXANDER K./YELP

Excelsior

Step off of Mission Street into Rocks Den (4431 Mission St.) to forget your troubles in a modern man cave. The bar features televisions for sports fans, a free pool table, and a snug back room decked out with tasteful wallpaper, a fireplace and sofas for lounging. Check in on different days for special deals, like Wine and Whiskey Wednesdays. —Will Carruthers, Ingleside/Excelsior neighborhood editor

Fillmore

For a cozy evening, 1300 on Fillmore (1300 Fillmore St.) is a comfortable spot full of swanky couches and chairs, with a wall covered in historic classic Fillmore neighborhood photos. They offer a great happy hour on weekdays from 5:30-7:30 pm and all night long on Thursdays, with cornmeal fried oysters, fried chicken sliders, and Southern-inspired cocktails starting at $5. —Meaghan Mitchell, Bayview/Fillmore neighborhood editor

Hayes Valley

If you've always wanted to combine a bookstore and a bar, then Two Sisters Bar and Books (579 Hayes St.) is your new haunt. Sidle up to a stool, get yourself an artisan cocktail (they particularly know their way around whiskey and gin), borrow a book from their shelves, and watch the hours dissolve. —Amy Stephenson, Upper Haight neighborhood editor

Inside Two Sisters. | PHOTO: TWO SISTERS/FACEBOOK

Inner Richmond

Nothing will serve you better on a rainy afternoon than a proper pub. Quiet and unpretentious, The Bitter End (441 Clement St.) sports a fireplace, deep benches, chipped varnish and darts. It's also got a full roster of pub snacks waiting on your beck and call, for when that third Guinness turns into supper. —Camden Avery, Upper Haight neighborhood editor and Richmond writer

Inner Sunset

Just like love, sometimes the bar you're looking for is right in front of you. With a working hearth, overstuffed couches and a diverse mix of UCSF students and neighborhood regulars, Fireside Bar (603 Irving St.) is the perfect place to warm up before climbing aboard the N-Judah that stops right outside its front door. —Walter Thompson, Inner Sunset/Cole Valley neighborhood editor

Fireside Bar's namesake hearth. | PHOTO: STAN L./YELP

Lower Haight

Noc Noc (557 Haight St.), short for “Nocturnal Nocturne,” is known for its craft beer selection, sake on tap, and its funky wall paintings and artifacts hanging from the ceiling. The three-decade-old bar is probably one of the few drinking establishments in the city that doesn’t have a TV. Take a seat at one of nooks throughout the space, which the original designer purposely made to maximize privacy, so you can actually carry on a conversation with friends while you imbibe. Oh yeah, there’s also a fireplace. —Alisa Scerrato, neighborhood editor

Mission

The Wooden Nickel (1900 Folsom St.) is one of the coziest bars in the Mission. The all-female-owned dive bar features a pool table; a jukebox with an eclectic mix of music, from The Cure to Led Zeppelin; and an affordable beer and shot special. What’s most notable is their fresh fruit “painkillers,” made from a blend of gold rum, orange juice, pineapple, and coconut topped with a dash of nutmeg. I know what you’re thinking: “Cold day, cold drink?” But seriously, bartender Joe Lee got this recipe from the Soggy Dollar Bar in the British Virgin Islands in 1971, and drinking even one of these drinks makes you feel like you’ve suddenly been transported to a tropical island. —Alisa Scerrato, neighborhood editor

A painkiller at the Wooden Nickel. | PHOTO: ALISA SCERRATO/HOODLINE

Outer Sunset

Baby, it’s cold outside, especially if you live in the Outer Sunset. If you need a reprieve from the fog, duck into the recently resurrected Riptide (3639 Taraval St.) a few blocks from Ocean Beach. With small bar tables and comfortable red sofas scattered around a cozy lodge interior, this is the perfect place to enjoy lazy chats over local brews and hot toddies. —Fiona Lee, Outer Sunset neighborhood editor

North Beach

Inclement weather got you down? Pop on over to Sweeties Art Bar (475 Francisco St.) for a stiff drink and warm conversation with the locals. The pool table is free, and they'll even make you a pizza if you're so inclined. Don't forget to rub the Buddha statue at the entrance for good luck. —Nathan Falstreau, North Beach neighborhood editor

SoMa

For a cozy bar experience just off the beaten path of the Folsom corridor, Driftwood(1225 Folsom St.) makes a nice getaway with its low lighting, comfy couches, flickering faux-fireplace, and strong whiskey drinks. Just be sure to warn your date about the enormous wooden penis sculpture displayed in the bathroom, a holdover from the space's past as a leather bar. —Allie Pape, San Francisco editor

At the bar at Driftwood. | PHOTO: ULI B./YELP

Tenderloin

If you find yourself caught in the rain in the Tenderloin this weekend, Emperor Norton's Boozeland's (510 Larkin St.) faux fireplace won’t do much to warm you up. But their $5 beverages, pool table, shuffle board and furry four-legged patrons will get the job done just fine. —Brittany Hopkins, Tenderloin neighborhood editor

Upper Haight

The legendary Zam Zam (1633 Haight St.) is your place to stave off impending winter blues in the Upper Haight. Always dark, always lovely, the worn-velvet-and-brass vibe is the perfect invitation for a glass of Scotch or a hot toddy. —Camden Avery, Upper Haight neighborhood editor

Article and images sourced from http://hoodline.com/2016/10/hoodline-editors-picks-the-coziest-bars-in-san-francisco-by-neighborhood

Real Estate Roundup: Rising Home Sales and Prices Projected for 2017

Here’s a look at recent news of interest to homebuyers, home sellers, and the home-curious.

2017 FORECAST: STEADY RISE IN HOME SALES, PRICES 
Next year will see steady growth in existing-home sales and prices, with stronger growth in 2018, according to the latest forecast by real estate analysts — boosted by a greater number of millennials entering their prime homebuying years, rising household formation, and continued job growth.

Forecasts for the coming year were a highlight of the National Association of Realtors’ annual Conference & Expo, held last week in Orlando, Florida. NAR analysts expect sales to grow  by 2 percent to 5.46 million in 2017, followed by 4 percent growth in 2018. The national median existing-home price is expected to rise by 4 percent next year.

NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun said that tight supply and affordability problems currently facing buyers in many markets will gradually ease next year.

“NAR surveys from both current renters and recent buyers prove that there’s an overwhelmingly strong desire among the younger generation to own a home of their own,” Yun said in a statement. “The housing market over the next couple of years should get a big lift in demand from these new buyers. The one caveat is it’s essential that there’s enough new and existing supply at entry-level prices for them to reach the market.”

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SAN JOSE, SAN FRANCISCO SELLERS LEAD U.S. IN HOME PRICE GAINS 
U.S. homes sold for an average of 23 percent above their purchase prices in the third quarter of 2016, the highest gain in nine years. And the news is even better in the Bay Area, where homes in the San Jose area sold for 68 percent above their purchase prices and 67 percent in the San Francisco area.

San Jose and San Francisco once again led the nation in home price gains, according to data compiled by ATTOM Data Solutions. They were followed by Portland, Oregon and Seattle (tied at 51 percent) and Los Angeles (49 percent).

The company’s Q3 Home Sales Report also showed that distressed sales nationwide fell to a nine-year low of 12.9 percent of all sales. All-cash purchases also fell to a nine-year low, to 25.9 percent of all sales, down from a peak of 44.8 in 2011.

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MILLENNIAL HOMEBUYERS TURN TO REFINANCING
Millennial homebuyers are growing in number, and they’re increasingly choosing to refinance their homes, too. That’s the news from mortgage software provider Ellie Mae, which released its monthly Millennial Tracker report last week.

Refinances accounted for 20 percent of all closed loans by millennial borrowers in September, up from 17 percent in August, the company said. Eighty percent of millennial loans were for home purchases, compared with 54 percent overall for U.S. borrowers.

Other findings from the September Millennial Tracker report:

• The average FICO score for millennial borrowers rose to 726 in September.
• The average interest rate on home loans continued declining, to 3.728 percent.
• The average loan amount increased to $184,179, up from an average of $181,326 in August.

“As the average rate on home loans continues to decline, we are seeing millennials with more purchase power, indicated by the average loan amount increase,” Joe Tyrrell, executive vice president of corporate strategy at Ellie Mae said. “We’re also seeing a slight uptick in the number of refinances in September, indicating maturity among those millennials who previously purchased a home and are looking for an opportunity to lower the cost on their existing mortgage.”

(Photo: Flickr/SoulRider.222)

Article and images sourced from http://blog.pacificunion.com/real-estate-roundup-rising-home-sales-prices-in-2017/