Good to Know: Natural Home Goes to San Francisco

By Chelsea Brown

EATING

GREENS RESTAURANT

On the marina facing the Golden Gate Bridge, Greens is perfect for sunset dining on Chef Annie Somerville’s organic menus inspired by Mediterranean, Mexican, and Southwestern flavors.
Fort Mason Building A
(415) 771-6222,
www.GreensRest.CitySearch.com 

JARDINIÈRE

This elegant eatery serves organic French-Californian cuisine from local farmers, fishers, and ranchers. Nearly 85 percent of the restaurant’s waste is recycled or composted.
300 Grove Street (at Franklin)
(415) 861-5555, www.Jardiniere.com 

SLEEPING

FAIRMONT SAN FRANCISCO

A forerunner in environmental measures, this premier hotel recycles, composts, and donates food and furniture to local nonprofits.
950 Mason Street
(415) 772-5000,
Fairmont.com/SanFrancisco

GREEN GULCH FARM
ZEN CENTER

Just north of the city, this Buddhist Soto Zen center offers meditation, philosophy lessons, a guesthouse and conference center, organic farm, and garden.
On Muir Beach
(415) 383-3134, www.SFZC.com 

EXPLORING

GOLDEN GATE NATIONAL RECREATION AREA

With 75,398 acres of land and water, this is one of the world’s largest urban national parks—complete with hiking and biking. It’s home to 1,273 plant and animal species.
(415) 561-4700, NPS.gov/goga

OTSU VEGAN BOUTIQUE

Shop for hard-to-find vegan items such as shoes, belts, wallets, and bags.
3253 16th Street
(415) 255-7900, www.VeganMart.com 

RELAXING

CONSERVATORY OF FLOWERS

Home to more than 10,000 international plants, this stately Victorian greenhouse is tucked picturesquely into Golden Gate Park.
JFK Drive
(415) 666-7001, www.ConservatoryOfFlowers.org 

SACRED SPACE HEALING CENTER

This retreat and day spa features massage, hydrotherapy, internal cleansing, yoga, Middle Eastern dance, and more.
776 Haight Street
(415) 431-0878, www.SacredSpace-SF.com