BRUNCH: Outerlands
Living in the Bay Area, I find that brunch is the best part of a non-working day and there is an endless array of choices. Just in San Francisco alone, there are so many amazing brunch spots that it would be impossible to try them all out – but I still try, despite the multitude of choices.
On this day, which started off a foggy one, the goal was to seek out a chill Cali vibe brunch spot close to one of the best hiking views in SF. My girlfriend and I left home with the hope that the fog would burn off eventually, because that is what typically happens in the “City by the Bay.”
San Francisco is broken up into many different districts and sub-cultures. It is a true melting pot. The Outer Sunset is one district, in particular, that contains unassuming gems. There we found the spot that fit the brunch bill, Outerlands. Surrounded by the quintessential-inches-a-part (if that) SF homes with the Pacific Ocean a few blocks away, this amazing spot was just the ticket. Its rustic modern décor and simple/straight to the point menu is filled with brunch goodies ranging from sweet & savory “Dutch Pancakes” to “Eggs-in-Jail” with Avocado. I recommend pairing your selections with refreshing “Cognac & Rum Buck” with plum, ginger beer, and lime and you’ll have yourself a great start to an awe-inspiring day off.
More importantly, Outerlands provided the rustic-wood paneled, chill vibe without the weight of a heavy food baby before our historic, nature-filled Lands End Trail hike.
HIKE: Lands End Trail
We were looking for the type of hike that could be tackled in a couple of hours without the realization of exercising. Of course the amazing distraction of the 360-degree views of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge usually do the trick.
Taking the Great Highway along the ocean helps build up the excitement along the way. By the time we finished the 10-minute drive from Outerlands we had perfect hiking weather. Our earlier hope of the fog burning off came true!
The 3.4-mile trail is easy enough for all ages – regardless of exercise level. Before the trail began, we were met with the amazing ruins of the Sutro Baths and Ocean Beach. The majority of the trails offer cliff-top walks, dark Cypress trees, and historic treasures along the way. These treasures include shipwreck remains, a rock patterned labyrinth, Mile Rock Beach, and a back entrance to view the famed Legion of Honor museum.
If you’re looking for a way to decompress from city life (or just life in general), brunch at a chill spot followed by a hike that takes in some of the best sights that San Francisco can offer is definitely a great option!
Check it out for yourself:
Outerlands (Between 45th Ave & 46th Ave)
Outer Sunset
4001 Judah St.
San Francisco, CA 94122
Instagram: @outerlands
Lands End Trail
680 Ponit Lobos Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94121
Sea Cliff
Instagram: @goldengatenationalparks