exploring north of the golden gate bridge

Now that you saw what we did in san fran… here’s where we spent some time north of the city.

Per my well traveled friend Leigh’s advice, we crossed the Golden Gate Bridge for a stop in Mill Valley.

Joe’s Taco Lounge was the real deal.  Amazing food, kitschy flair and an authentic vibe.  If Steve and I were from south of the border or knew anything that went into running a restaurant, this would be it.  Can’t you picture this place in the vacant spot between catching fireflies & yellow door in Berkley?  A girl can dream…

We continued north to a town I stumbled upon while doing some research about Sonoma County at the hotel the evening before.  This little gem of a town was well worth the stop in my book thanks to the talented artist team of Patrick Amiot and Bridgitte Laurent.  You will see signs of their creative genius sprinkled all throughout Sebastopol.  Renga Arts features their fantastic sculpture garden.

Or take a stroll down Florence street and see numerous sculptures in Patrick & Brigitte’s neighbor’s front yards.  I took loads more photos of these recycled whimsical finds that will be in another blog post soon.  Art museums are fine and dandy, but I love a good dose of unexpected art that makes me smile.  This stop was definitely one of our favorite surprises during our journey.  Oh… and there are also a lot of antique & junk shops on the drive to this town! (just another reason to make time to visit :-)

We wouldn’t call ourselves Alfred Hitchcock fans, however we quickly learned that the little town of Bodega is home to his popular film, The Birds.  So when one has a chance to pose by Al… we thought ~ why not?  Lots of these charming little coastal towns are peppered along Highway 1 plus some killer views to boot!

On another day north of the bridge we headed to Napa.  I wish I could say Steve & I loved wine, however it is not the case.  We do love hip towns and this one did not disappoint. Per another recommendation we grabbed burgers at Gott’s for lunch then explored the beautiful Oxbow Public Market.  This place is a foodie’s dream… not that I’m a foodie ~ however I could have eaten numerous other meals at this market.

I also liked the sidewalk cha cha cha lesson and cupcake liner garland in Sweetie Pies window.

My surprise discovery in this city was definitely Betty’s Girl Boutique.  Here’s another brilliant shop concept I’d love to see in Michigan. They sell classic vintage with a modern edge as well as redesigned clothing made from recycled product. Plus they offer complimentary alterations on most of their items. Loads of fun cocktail dresses and funky formals fill the racks here.  Andie from Pretty in Pink would be proud!

Sonoma was next on our list.  This city has a lovely park smack dab in the middle of the city and the surrounding side streets are filled with sweet shops and restaurants.  One shop that got the blue ribbon in my book was Tiddle E. Winks.  It’s a very well curated step back in time… impeccably displayed findings will tempt you at every turn in this cozy shop.

We’re headed south of San Fran next  ~stay tuned…

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