We made it to San Francisco! 5,351 miles away from home, Bahath tours the West Coast in the 20 degree November sunshine. With its enormously diverse population; the Bay Area is known as a mosaic vicinity, a patchwork of cultures meshed into one thriving metropolis. Of course that includes halal eateries and entertainment, here's our favourite things to do in the city:
Munch- Ziggy's Burgers
We dined exclusively on saturated fat and cholesterol but the taste of meat after what felt like years was most definitely worth it. The lettuce is crispy, the meat is well done and the service is fast; it's everything you want from a halal burger place but, you know, it's California, so it's better by default. The portion sizes are surprisingly similar to that of Stax in the UK, and the price is pretty much the same after TAX and tipping. The fries are better in San Fran and the desserts aren't too sweet, so overall Ziggis justifies a solid 9/10.
21 Drumm St, Sab Francisco, CA 94111
Bucket List - Coit Tower
Visiting Coit Tower is something everybody must do in San Francisco. It's one of the highest points, best views, and probably most accessible climbs I've ever come across. The view of Golden Gate Bridge is simply amazing, and although the picture almost does it justice, you have to see it for yourself. If you don't fancy the walk, the 39 bus will do the work for you but honestly, it's not the same. 9/10
1 Telegraph Hill Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94133
The Civic Farmers Market
The Civic Centre Farmer's Market runs every Wednesday and Sunday from 6am and is probably amongst the most diverse market squares in California. Indian, Chinese, Pakistani, Italian, Mexican, every type of food existed here! Who knew I could buy Kashmiri Tea in San Fran for $4?! American's also add cheese to their chicken biryani, I didn't know this was a thing but it's actually pretty good. Having started in 1981, the market is accessible to everyone. Residents can exchange government food stamps for tokens to double their food purchases for the week, a great initiative to assist the local community in meeting their dietary needs. 10/10 for the market!
San Francisco's United Nations Plaza, Market Street 7th and 8th Streets above Civic Center BART Station
San Francisco is a melting pot of cultures full of interesting and amazing sites to take in. We couldn't possibly fit in all that Frisco has to offer in one post. We recommend that you take a trip down to northern California to search and explore some more!