Bay Area Archives - A Side of Sweet

Let’s Glow SF Holiday Lights Event

Let’s Go SF is a FREE SAN FRANCISCO EVENT! December 3-12 Panasonic & SF Downtown lit up San Francisco buildings with immersive visual art. Let's Glow SF Downtown San Francisco Panasonic Light Projections

To help us all get in the holiday spirit, Downtown SF is bringing Let’s Glow SF to San Francisco’s financial district NOW through Sunday, December 12th. Using Panasonic 4K laser projectors, the event will cast holiday-themed scenes across four buildings in the area. The result is stunning, eye-catching visuals that are so crisp you’ll almost forget they are building-sized! The vibrant, colorful, and immersive scenes are set to music to help the beautiful laser projected artworks truly transport the viewers into another dimension…. Read More »

What to Do in Monterey – FULL TRAVEL GUIDE

Pat and I are fully vaccinated, so now is the moment to get back out there and travel again! We decided for our first trip we would explore a region close to home but still far enough away that it felt like a vacation. We love Monterey County so it was a natural choice. It’s just an easy drive from San Francisco but feels like you have truly escaped from the hustle and bustle of the city.

I’m happy to report we felt very safe during our trip. Most people in the area wear masks consistently, even outdoors. There is plenty of outdoor seating and all cleaning COVID protocols seem to be meticulously followed.

You can tell tourism is starting to pick back up in the region, so I definitely recommend making reservations ahead of time and booking in advance when you can.

Read on for my guide to Monterey, in partnership with the Monterey County CVB…
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Guide to Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Charm, beaches and world-class food! Everything you need to know about where to eat and what to do is in this guide to Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.

We love, love, love Carmel-By-The-Sea and try to go every couple of months. It’s an easy getaway from San Francisco but it feels so different! There is world-class dining on every block. It’s the “beachiest” destination in Northern California with its serene white sand beaches. The city is surrounded by wine country and there are many tasting rooms in downtown Carmel. There’s so much to do! In addition, it might be the cutest town of all time, with rows and rows of perfectly manicured cottages and charming shops.

This is THE TIME of year to visit Carmel! The tourist crowds have thinned and the weather is at its best. There’s really no excuse. Here are some things we love to do when we’re in town.

Read on for what to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea…

Glamping at Mendocino Grove in Northern California

Glamping at Mendocino Grove is the perfect way to experience nature with all of the comforts of a hotel. It’s an easy weekend getaway from San Francisco.

If you want to be in nature and get away from the hustle of city life, but still have the creature comforts of a hotel, then glamping at Mendocino Grove is the perfect weekend getaway! It’s an easy drive from San Francisco and there’s so much to do in the area.

Read on for more about our stay at Mendocino Grove…
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Al’s Deli San Francisco – New by Chef Aaron London

Check out Al’s Deli by Chef Aaron London in the Mission neighborhood of San Francisco for an inexpensive, beautiful and delicious Mediterranean food in a photogenic pink and blue setting.

Al's Deli Restaurant Opening - Aaron London Chef from Al's Place, San Francisco, CA Review

Last week something notable happened in the San Francisco food scene. Al’s Deli opened on Guerrero Street in the Mission neighborhood. It features – you guessed it – beautifully done deli food in the most charming setting. It is absolutely worth a visit for lunch or dinner.

Al’s Deli is the second restaurant by Aaron London, the chef behind Al’s Place. One of my San Francisco foodie claims to fame is eating at Al’s Place before it was named Best New Restaurant in America by Bon Apetit and before it received a Michelin star.

Read on for my review of the new Al’s Deli…

Wilbur Hot Springs Resort Review

Detailed review of Wilbur Hot Springs Resort in Northern California, with photo tour and tips for what to bring and what to know before you go.
Hot springs are pretty much a lifestyle here in northern California. The sulfuric waters draw people from far and wide to unwind, heal and disconnect. From small hot pots that require a day of hiking to access, to luxurious resorts, there are many ways to enjoy them.

Pat and I spent the weekend at Wilbur Hot Springs, about 2½ hours north of San Francisco. This relaxing oasis literally forces you to disconnect thanks to no cell phone reception and no electrical outlets available to guests.
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