re: Napa and San Francisco

The wife and I spent a few days in SF for our honeymoon a few years ago. We stayed at the Kensington Park Hotel near Union Square. It is a great boutique hotel right off of the Powell streetcar line. I definitely wouldn't stay near the waterfront, way overpriced and that area can be kind of seedy. I wouldn't rent a car at the airport if you don't have to, the airport rental fees at SFO are some of the highest in the country. We just took the BART from the airport to Powell street and walked a few blocks to the hotel. We didn't use a car at all in the city, but we did rent one for a day from a downtown Enterprise station and drove to Napa and Sonoma. We didn't stay overnight but we left very early and caught the first tour and tasting at Beringer Vineyards. Very impressive. Then we just wandered our way up and down the highway and would stop at any place we saw that interested us. We did stop and eat lunch at Sattui, but it was great to get the fresh meats and cheeses and sit out under the trees and enjoy the scenery. I can see how some would find this too "touristy."

Not sure when you are going, but if the Giants are in town, do yourself a favor and catch a game. AT&T Park is one of the most unique and fun MLB atmospheres I've ever seen. We were there when the Phillies were in town, got to see Cliff Lee take a no-no into the 6th.

And no matter when you go, BRING A JACKET

I can vouch for A16, Perbacco, Tadich Grill (try the Cioppino or the sand dabs), Hunan Homes, and Magnolia Grill (good burgers and on-site brewing). I'd also hit up the Ferry Building one day in lieu of lunch, and nibble on the many offerings from the vendors there. You can eat pretty well...

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And no matter when you go, BRING A JACKET

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This guy speaks the truth.