Kimberley Askew Hearts SF

I don't think I know a single person who adores San Francisco as much as my dear friend Ms. Askew. Discover where Kim goes to eat, chat, and chill in SF.

If you've got three hours in San Francisco....
That's easy. Afternoon tea in the Garden Court at The Palace Hotel.

Where would you go for an intimate dinner?
Emmy's Spaghetti Shack on Mission at Virginia Street. The first time I went there, the very pregnant waitress and the bartender kept pausing for impromptu make-out sessions, which didn’t seem at all malapropos.

Best neighborhood cafe?
On a warm summer evening, Revolution Cafe in the Mission--especially when the jazz trio is performing. It was at Revolution where I was reminded recently that Buddy Holly's Greatest Hits is best enjoyed at top volume. The best bar is Zeitgeist, of course.

Favorite building?
The Palace of the Legion of Honor museum, even though it's a copy, because of the location and the collection. Also, it was donated to the city by a laundress who became a millionaire. That's so San Francisco.

People should know...
about the Mechanics' Institute Library.

Do you have a favorite SF view?
The view from the roof at Chez Askew is penthouse perfect. It encompasses Alcatraz, Coit Tower, and the Bay Bridge. There's the view at night as I'm cabbing home from SFO after a long trip (though lately I've been Bart-ing it like a good San Franciscan should).

If you could own one place...
The Sentinel Building, which Francis Ford Coppola purchased in the '70s or the James Flood Mansion on Nob Hill that houses the Pacific-Union Club. Can anyone get me inside?

How do you escape summer in the city?
Find a friend with a motorcycle or a convertible and head to Muir Beach for the day. When the fog rolls in, get cozy over hot toddies at the Pelican Inn.

What is your favorite shop?
Green Apple for Books, Belle Cose on Polk for lingerie, and Recchuiti Confections in the Ferry Building for chocolate.

Where would you go for a dream date?
It's a secret.

What's a San Francisco stereotype that fits?
We like to live on the edge.