Extended Weekend Getaways By Julie Dee Suman
An agricultural oasis exists on the San Francisco Peninsula. Located just south of San Francisco, the region nestles between the San Francisco Bay and Pacific Ocean. The unique microclimate flourishes with over fifty working farms. Fishing, u-pick farms, and farm-to-table experiences create a unique Northern California experience.
As Fresh as It Gets
Brussel sprouts, artichokes, blackberries, and pumpkins represent a sampling of the abundance on the San Francisco Peninsula. The “As Fresh as It Gets” Program connects local produce and seafood to visitors and residents. The program recognizes restaurants, breweries, hotels, and other businesses utilizing or serving locally grown and raised goods.
An “As Fresh as It Gets” plaque along with an in-depth list helps visitors identify participating businesses, such as u-pick farms. The San Francisco Peninsula is also known as the “Pumpkin Capital.” Farmer John’s Pumpkin Farm, with 14 acres of pumpkins, stands out as a u-pick pumpkin patch. Guests can choose from a wide range of ornamental and edible varieties. And trust me, it takes time to pick just one!
Renaissance Gardens and Orchards
The 654-acre estate, Fioli, comprises a 54,000+ square-foot Georgian revival-style mansion, 16 acres of English Renaissance gardens, and a 6.8-acre Gentleman’s Orchard. Located near the verdant coastal mountains in Woodside, you may recognize the gardens from the movie, ‘The Wedding Planner.’ The towering twisting oak trees at the entryway call you to explore the lush sunken gardens and marble statues.
No matter the time of year, the property is awash with colorful blooms. Always active with events for the whole family, Orchard Days invites visitors to linger in the fall foliage. The orchard features quince, apple, and pears trees among the grapevines and beehives. Orchard Days events include sampling apple cider, cultural harvest celebrations, and the opportunity to purchase fresh products from the Fioli farm stand.
Back to School
During my visit to Fioli, I had the opportunity to enjoy a local wine tasting hosted by the San Francisco Wine School. Master sommelier and wine educator David Glancy founded the school to provide world-class opportunities to learn about wine. The tasting opened my eyes by exploring the nuances of wine with creamy, acidic, salty, and spicy foods. David encouraged us to play by combining each flavor profile with the four vintages.
The San Francisco Wine School also offers educational series and certification programs in South San Francisco. Classes range from Introduction to Wine to Wine Styles of the World. You don’t need to be local to take the courses, as some are offered in a hybrid format, where the wine ships to you.
Take Me to “The Ave”
The bayfront town of Burlingame represents the heart of the San Francisco Peninsula. Known as the City of Trees, downtown’s oldest park features wood-carved sculptures. Wetlands and trails such as the San Francisco Bay Trail lend to the beauty of this whimsical destination.
Head to “The Ave” or Burlingame Avenue for boutique shopping and dining. Pedestrian-friendly and fun, “The Ave” is the place to be. Caffe Stellato tempts you with 60 flavors of handmade artisan gelato. The Fig Balsamic and Wild Honey flavors were indeed one of a kind.
Focus on Sustainability
Twelvemonth, a true destination restaurant in Burlingame, highlights seasonally and locally sourced ingredients from within a one-hundred-mile radius. The restaurant champions sustainability through a 100% plant-based menu and waste reduction. In addition, the facility achieved a Platinum LEED rating through the use of solar panels, rainwater catchment, and other attributes.
The restaurant’s design is both welcoming and a work of art. A comfortable patio with an array of seating opens into the stylish dining room with wooden beam vaulted ceilings and exquisite chandeliers. Whether you’re here for happy hour or a night out, right away, you know this will be a special experience.
During my visit, dinner started with a selection of tender Crisp Maitake Mushrooms with pickles and whipped ranch. We also savored Cornbread served in the shape of an ear of corn. I enjoyed slathering the maple butter and flaky salt on the cornbread. My entrée was a bright and generous Chop Salad bursting with Brussels sprouts, kale, pomegranate, pears, blue cheese, chickpeas, and an herb vinaigrette.
If You Go
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the gateway to the San Francisco Peninsula. Burlingame’s hotels are located just a few miles south of the airport. Waterside hotels include The Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport, Double Tree, and Embassy Suites. Consider a rental car to explore the San Francisco Peninsula fully.