Independence Day Destinations
If you’re looking to ditch the more traditional ways of celebrating this 4th of July and instead want to get out and enjoy someone else’s barbecue and margaritas then these three destinations are just what you’re looking for. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite San Francisco restaurants and bars that are perfect for enjoying good food and drinks and where you can perhaps even catch a glimpse of some amazing fireworks. Choose one (or all three) for an amazing and unforgettable Independence Day weekend experience.
4505 Burgers & BBQ
4th of July and barbecue. Name a better duo, we’ll wait...They are the two things in this world that make sense. However, it can be a lot of work and pressure to prepare and cook food for a whole gaggle of people so if you’re like us this year we’re outsourcing our 4th of July barbecue. We’re heading to 4505 BBQ on Divisadero and Fulton Street in San Francisco. Ryan Farr, the founder of 4505 works with local farmers to produce the finest BBQ from ethically raised animals. Ryan is also one of the few remaining chefs that uses one of the area’s last remaining wood-fired barbecue pits. Perhaps the idea of heading out to a barbecue restaurant on the fourth is daunting because of the overwhelming crowds. We don’t blame you. If this is the case we recommend using their catering service to supply your 4th of July festivities with the finest barbecue San Francisco has to offer. Just worry about the forks and plates then sit back and sip on something sweet and let 4505 do the rest.
El Techo
El Techo is one of the hottest spots in the Mission District of San Francisco. Always packed with locals and tourists who want to enjoy fine Latin food and drinks, El Techo is most well known for its rooftop views and margaritas. Don’t let the long line at the door discourage you, if you’re just looking to grab drinks with friends you can cut the line and take the elevator up to the roof to sip on their infamous pitcher of margaritas while enjoying the 360 view of San Francisco. White twinkle lights are strung throughout the outdoor area making this restaurant feel intimate and don’t disrupt the amazing view of everything from the Squarespace Tower to Twin Peaks. If you’re looking to sit and enjoy a meal, simply make a reservation and beat the dinner crowd- and the line. If you’re hoping to catch some fireworks we would recommend arriving before sundown to secure a spot. Don’t worry about closing times, El Techo is open late so you can relax and order another drink and bask in the warm summer evening weather. Did we mention the view is amazing?
Charles Chocolates
The day is winding down and you have a taste for something sweet to enjoy while watching the fireworks overhead. Perhaps something everyone can enjoy and pass around while basking in the sweet summer heat and celebrating our nation’s independence. We decided to order a custom made chocolate box from Charles Chocolates located on 18th Street in San Francisco. Charles Chocolates is known for their chocolate that is made with fresh key ingredients such as the finest creams and butters and fruits and nuts. Head to the Charles Chocolates Cafe and enjoy tea, coffee and of course chocolates on their quaint patio area or if you’re like us, order a custom box ahead of time and have it just in time to enjoy this year’s firework’s show at the San Francisco pier. However you have it, you can’t really go wrong with chocolate can you?