The best way to experience San Francisco? Ask a local.
At The Jay, we believe the people who know San Francisco best are the ones who live, work, and play there every day. That’s why we’re introducing Friend in the Know, a new series spotlighting the people who make The Jay what it is and sharing their favorite places, hidden gems, and can’t-miss experiences around the city.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect morning coffee, a neighborhood favorite for dinner, a great place to grab a drink, or somewhere only a local would know to send you, our team is here to point you in the right direction.
Meet Orlando, Your Friend in the Know
As one of the first people you’ll meet when you arrive at The Jay, Orlando, our Doorman, knows a thing or two about making people feel at home in San Francisco. He’s also got a few favorite spots around the city worth knowing about.
When Orlando isn’t welcoming guests to The Jay, you’ll find him running or biking along the Embarcadero neighborhood. So naturally, we asked him to share a few of the places he sends friends when they’re looking to experience SF like a local.
Orlando’s San Francisco Favorites:
- For coffee: Home Coffee Roasters in the Sunset District
Orlando’s go-to: an oat milk latte – a classic! - For a great meal: Sotto Mare for Italian food. For dessert, you’ll most likely find him at Golden Island for mango sago.
His pick favors trying new cuisines, where he’s especially drawn to Kenyan food at the moment. - For drinks: Golden Tap Room
The spot Orlando recommends when you’re looking for a large sports bar with an arcade to bring out the nostalgia of ski ball. - For getting outside: Golden Gate Park
His favorite place to take out a paddle boat at Stow Lake while visiting the Windmill and seeing Bison Paddock. - For a can’t-miss San Francisco experience: Angel Island
Because no trip to the city is complete without Angel Island. Though most go to Alcatraz, there is more history at Angel Island, highlighting the military and immigration, similar to Ellis Island in New York.
Consider Orlando Your Local Connection.
The beauty of staying at The Jay is that you don’t have to figure out San Francisco on your own. From the moment you arrive, our team is here to help you discover the city beyond the usual tourist stops. So next time you’re at The Jay, say hello to Orlando and ask him where he’d send you. Chances are, you’ll leave with a few places on your list that weren’t on your itinerary.
That’s the beauty of having a Friend in the Know.