Photo credit: Peter Prato for The New York Times
Cole Valley — positioned in the geographical center of the City — is flanked by Tank Hill, USCF Parnassus and Golden Gate Park. Dotted with Marina Bay apartments and Victorian homes, Cole Valley feels like a tucked away gem. The N-Judah line runs through Cole Valley taking you from Ocean Beach to Downtown alongside bus lines from the Haight (6 line & 7 line) and the Marina (43 line). Golden Gate Park and Kezar Stadium are a few minutes walk (or run) away.
Every neighborhood in San Francisco has its own character. Location plays a big part. Cole is not too close from the overpowering energy of city life, but also never too far from walking in to it on your own terms. Neighbors are friendly and open to conversation, but not intrusive. Families pushing strollers mix with mellow hipsters.
Neighbors often spend mornings along a few blocks on Cole St filled with casual restaurants, bars and neighborhood essentials. Spend an afternoon sipping wine at InoVino. Fit in some after work grocery shopping at Luke's Local. Grab a crepe to munch on in Golden Gate Park from Crepes On Cole. Take a date to The Ice Cream Bar. Go on a walk to 17th st. and see the city skyline peak over the valley's rim. Cole is a delightful neighborhood in a very special spot.
Take the N-Judah West and disembark at West Portal station (first stop from the Sunset Tunnel). Walk over to Zazie and put your name down for Brunch – you’ll likely have a wait ahead of you. Head to the walk-up coffee window at Luke’s Local and grab a latte (if Chance is your barista, tell him Tanner sent you).
Post up at the open seating outside Wooden House Cafe (next to the Sunset Tunnel MUNI entrance) and people watch – Cole Valley residents are delightful neighbors – or remiss over the week with the friend who tagged along. If no seating is open, or you prefer the company of a furry friend, bask in the sunshine at the dog park right around the corner.
You can’t go wrong with any option from Zazie, but I'd recommend the Monaco Eggs Benedict with a Mimosa. Burn off the carbs with a stroll around the neighborhood observing Cole Valley’s wonderful assortment of trees. Don’t know where to start? Look out for chalk markings on the sidewalk or visit SF Trees for a guide
Wrap it all up with a bouquet (for yourself, a significant other or a friend – doesn’t matter) from Dasluz. Don’t forget to grab a bag of coffee beans from Bird and Bear - keep going North on Cole for a few more blocks and at this point, keep your day eventful by meandering through the Haight.