What's New in San Francisco

. October 14, 2008

MARCH 12, 2007.

CITY NEWS

Pod Casts Available on San Francisco CVB Web Site

Discover San Francisco in a whole new way. The San Francisco Convention & Visitors Bureau Web site now features pod casts from more than a dozen of the City's attractions. Learn about the latest research and exhibitions from the City's prominent museums, such as the California Academy of Sciences and the de Young Museum. Or take an audio walking tour of the City's hottest spots from StrollSanFrancisco.com. From hotels to theatres, members of the Bureau are offering pod casts at www.sfcvb.org/travel_media/podcasts.asp. It is free and easy to upload on to any computer or MP3 Player. Media contact: Tanya Houseman, 415-227-2651, [email protected].

EVENTS

Cow Palace Becomes Flower Palace for San Francisco Flower & Garden Show

Known as one of the most "cutting edge" of the top six garden shows in the world, the 22nd annual San Francisco Flower & Garden Show unfolds across nearly six acres of Cow Palace "turf" from March 21-27. This year's theme, "Living and Loving the Garden Life" offers something fun and inspiring for all garden lovers. More than 20 display gardens by the West's top garden designers and creators feature gardens for all persuasions. For more information, telephone 800-569-2832 or visit www.gardenshow.com. Media contact: Dawn Stranne, 415-893-1780, [email protected].

Macy's Union Square Floral Tribute: Imagine India

Macy's 61st annual Flower Show, March 30-April 14, is a passage to India from the grandeur of the Maharajas to the thriving film scene of Bollywood. This land of contradictions, rich in tradition yet connected to the present, will unfold on every level of Macy's, Union Square, In-store promotions will include special guest speakers, floral designers, musical performances, demonstrations by chefs specializing in Indian cuisine, presentations by local artisans and, of course, amazing floral tributes to the gardens of India. For additional information, telephone 415-393-3724 or visit www.macys.com. Media contact: Nicole Chagnon, 415-954-6283, [email protected].

Grace Cathedral Centennial Celebration Events Continue

Located at 1100 California St. at the pinnacle of Nob Hill, Grace Cathedral rose from the ashes of the 1906 earthquake. Known internationally for its Ghiberti doors, labyrinths, stained glass, medieval and contemporary furnishings, as well as its carillon, organs and choir, the Cathedral is celebrating its centennial year with a series of events, among them a display of the Keiskamma Altarpiece, a monumental, 13- by 22-foot artwork created by 120 women in Hamburg, South Africa. The altarpiece makes its only Northern California stop on its current North American tour, April 8-May 27. The altarpiece, which draws inspiration from Renaissance-era altarpieces and the Bayeaux Tapestry, conveys a message of hope for people who are contending with the devastation that AIDS has wrought in their lives. It is created of embroidery, beadwork, wire sculpture and photographs. For more information, telephone 415-749-6300 or visit www.GraceCathedral.org. Media contact: Heidi K. Zuhl, 415-749-6364, [email protected].

Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival Marks 40th Anniversary

One of California's most distinguished celebrations of Asian traditions, the Cherry Blossom Festival marks its 40th year in 2007. A dazzling showcase for Japanese culture and the diversity of the Japanese American community, the event spans two weekends, April 14-15 and 21-22, climaxing with the grand parade on Sunday, April 22, which starts at 1 pm in the Civic Center area and ends in Japantown. Added highlights include a food bazaar, a traditional arts and crafts fair and the children's village. Entertainment stages feature Japanese dancers, martial artists and taiko drummers. This year San Francisco will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its Sister City relationship with Osaka City, the first and oldest sister city relationship in the U.S. Additional performers and exhibits from Japan are expected to help commemorate this occasion. For more information, telephone 415-563-2313 or visit www.nccbf.org. Media contact: Tina Alcantara, 415-202-7907, [email protected].

April 18, 2007, 5:12 am: Commemorate 101st Anniversary of 1906 Earthquake

While not quite the event it was in 2006 when San Francisco marked the 100th anniversary of the 1906 earthquake and fire, a small, but hardy, band of survivors and spectators will once again return to Lotta's Fountain for pre-dawn commemorative ceremonies. In 2006 more than 10,000 people gathered to mark the occasion and honor a dozen survivors ranging in age from 99 (conceived and born in a tent in Golden Gate Park) to 103. The ceremonies are attended by members of San Francisco's official family, including Mayor Gavin A. Newsom; a small group of survivors and representatives from the South of Market Boys, a fraternal group of old-time San Franciscans; and Sons of the Shake, an organization of relatives of earthquake survivors. Lotta's Fountain, located at Kearny and Market streets, is where survivors gathered for updates on missing loved ones. Media contact: Laurie Armstrong, 415-227-2603, [email protected].

Once a Diva, Always a Diva

EXIT Theatre's DIVAfest 2007 will showcase four workshop productions of previously unproduced works-in-progress. "The idea of presenting theatrical ideas as fluid, organic pieces that grow and develop almost 'as we watch' is one we've had for a long time," noted Christina Augello, artistic director. Running at the EXIT Theatreplex, 156 Eddy St., plus Original Joe's Cabaret Room, 144 Taylor St., Thursday-Saturday, April 26 to May 26, the sixth annual DIVAfest which showcases women writers, directors and performers also features a main stage production of Crystal Daze, a new work by Bay Area playwright, Deborah Eubanks. DIVAfest also brings poet Diane di Prima, a local icon who was, along with Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac, a Beat scene fixture. For more information, telephone 415-673-3847 or visit www.sffringe.org. Media contact: Gary Carr, 925-672-8717, [email protected].

First Film Festival in the Americas Marks 50th Anniversary in San Francisco

Fifty years ago, Irving "Bud" Levin set a task for himself. "I took on the job of exposing the people of San Francisco to movies as an art form," he would recall in later years. The great film festivals of Cannes, Venice and Berlin had no counterpart in North America until Levin's dream took shape with the debut of the San Francisco International Festival in December 1957. In the ensuing years, the festival has made San Francisco one of the world's great cities for cinema. The cinematic showcase features 25 juried awards, more than 220 films and events with upwards of 100 participating filmmakers, and audiences of 80,000-plus. Among the highlights of the San Francisco International Film Festival (SFIFF 50), April 26-May 10, 2007, is the world premiere of Fog City Mavericks, a film that explores the extraordinary achievements of Bay Area filmmakers, with a special nod to the spirit of invention and independence that makes the Bay Area such a unique community. George Lucas will be the recipient of the one-time only Irving "Bud" Levine Award to be presented at the Gala Awards Night on May 3. SFIFF 50 will also feature The International Online, offering online screenings of a select group of festival features. Peter Morgan, the writer of two of the most highly praised films of 2006, The Queen and The Last King of Scotland, will also be honored. For more information, telephone 925-866-9559 or visit www.sffs.org. Media contact: Hilary Hart, 415-561-5022, [email protected].

San Francisco International Arts Festival Explores African Diaspora

Artistic Director Rhodessa Jones will curate the fourth annual San Francisco International Arts Festival, a showcase of visual and performing arts. The 11-day festival, May 17-27, brings together more than 20 San Francisco arts and cultural organizations to coordinate and present an unprecedented gathering of local and international artists for "The Truth in Knowing/Now: A Conversation across the African Diaspora," an exploration and celebration of Africa and the Diaspora. This unprecedented collaboration of international and local talent will fill the City with a score of performances and exhibitions in venues such as Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, San Francisco International Airport, City Hall, the African American Art & Culture Complex and Union Square. Also presented will be a film series curated by Ave Montague, artistic director of the San Francisco Black Film Festival; the African Encounters photographic exhibit from Bamako, Mali to be presented by the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD, and an appearance by the globetrotting Guinean nouveau cirque company, Circus Baobab. For more information, telephone 415-399-9554 or visit www.sfiaf.org. Media contact: David Perry, 415-693-0583, [email protected].

Time to Train and Pick a Costume for ING Bay to Breakers 12K on May 20, 2007

Since the first race in 1912, with 122 runners to the 2006 race with 70,000 runners and walkers (many of them in elaborate costumes), the ING Bay to Breakers 12K has become one of the world's largest and best-known footraces. The ING Greater Body Expo kicks off the festivities on May 18 at Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, 99 Grove St. The free Expo runs through May 19 and features exhibitors, displays, free samples, prizes, bargains on apparel and fitness gear. On race day, Sunday, May 20, starting at 8 am at the intersection of Howard and Main Street, runners will enjoy live bands along the course and finish on the Great Highway at Ocean Beach. Immediately following the race, the annual ING Footstock festival in the Golden Gate Park Polo Fields will feature headliner entertainment, an awards ceremony, a food marketplace and an opportunity to rendezvous and celebrate with family and friends. A citywide celebration, ING Bay to Breakers 12K encourages community involvement from thousands of spectators along the course. For additional information, telephone 415-359-2800 or visit www.ingbaytobreakers.com. Media contact: Missy Cohan, 415-359-2301, [email protected].

"Love Happens" All Weekend Long at 29th Annual Carnaval San Francisco 2007

"Love Happens" is the theme of Carnaval San Francisco 2007. Billed as California's "largest annual multi-cultural celebration," Carnaval will quicken the heart of the Mission District over Memorial Day weekend, May 26-27. One of the city's most spectacular traditions, Carnaval showcases the best of Latin American and Caribbean cultures and traditions with an array of food, music, dance and artistry. Spanning seven blocks, the festival portion of the event takes place on Harrison Street between 16th and 24th streets, May 26-27. On Sunday, May 27, the Carnaval Grand Parade starts at 9:30 am at the corner of 24th and Bryant streets and proceeds west on Mission Street. VIP seating is available for $25. For more information, call 415-920-0122 or visit www.carnavalsf.com. Media contact: Laura Gigounas, 415-479-8778, [email protected].

San Francisco Opera Presents 2007 Summer Season June 2-July 1, 2007

The summer season features a new San Francisco Opera co-production of Mozart's Don Giovanni starring baritone Mariusz Kwiecien; Richard Strauss's Der Rosenkavalier with mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato making her role debut as Octavian, Miah Persson making her Company debut as Sophie, and soprano Soile Isokoski making her Company debut as The Marschallin; and the San Francisco Opera premiere of Gluck's Iphig'enie en Tauride. This summer, San Francisco Opera will once again present a number of free concerts beginning with a free outdoor concert in San Francisco's Dolores Park on May 27 with artists from the summer season and the San Francisco Opera Orchestra conducted by Donald Runnicles. Other free events include the annual Merola in the Gardens on July 29, featuring singers from the Merola Opera Program at Yerba Buena Gardens; Opera at Stern Grove on August 19; and a performance in association with the San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration in June. For more information, telephone 415-864-3330 or visit www.sfopera.com. Media contact: Will Hamilton, 415-565-6470, [email protected].

Major League Baseball All-Star Week at Bat July 6-10, 2007

Baseball's midsummer classic is coming to San Francisco and will bring exciting activities for fans of all ages. Moscone West Convention Center will be the site of a five-day celebration of the national pastime with an unparalleled interactive baseball festival known as Major League Baseball All-Star FanFest. There will be exhibits and attractions, Major League clinics and seminars, free autograph sessions, live entertainment, memorabilia and much more. For information about FanFest and other All-Star Week activities, including the XM All-Star Futures Game, Taco Bell Legends/Celebrity Softball Game, Gatorade All-Star Workout Day featuring Home Run Derby, the Red Carpet Show presented by Chevrolet and other events, visit www.sfgiants.com. Media contact: Susan Goodenow, 212-931-7882, [email protected] or Shana Daum, 415-972-2491, [email protected]

GREEN NEWS

San Francisco Tour Companies Opt for Environmentally Fuel Solutions

Several local tour companies in San Francisco are using more environmentally friendly fuel sources for their boats, vans and limos:

Alcatraz Cruises

The new provider of ferry service to Alcatraz, Alcatraz Cruises has re-powered the three primary vessels with the most fuel efficient, low emission technology (Tier II EPA Standards) currently available. Within two years, the ferry service will utilize a hybrid vessel that uses solar and wind energy, generating virtually no emissions at the dock. An array of onboard solar panels, a "wing" to capture sun and wind power, and powerful batteries will minimize the need for conventional power. It will be the first of its kind to sail on San Francisco Bay and in the U.S. For more information, telephone 415-981-ROCK (7625) or visit www.alcatrazcruises.com. Media contact: Rich Weideman (National Park Service), 415-561-4730, [email protected] or Tegan Firth (Alcatraz Cruises) 415-983-8208, [email protected].

Bauer's Worldwide Transportation

Bauer's Worldwide Transportation has added The iCar service to its fleet, chauffeured luxury transportation in 2007 Lexus RX 400H SUV hybrids. This utility vehicle maximizes power and comfort while minimizing greenhouse emissions through gas engine, electric motor and high-powered battery integration. For more information, telephone 800-LIMO-OUT (546-6688) or visit www.bauerslimousine.com. Media contact: Michelle Truman, 480-948-6948 [email protected]

Hornblower Cruises & Events

When boat engines operate, they produce carbon dioxide and other greenhouse emissions. Catered events have direct implications as well such as the trucking of food and beverage to the point of departure. As part of Hornblower's Respect our Planet program, they are offering customers the option to offset CO2 emissions by purchasing CO2 credits through Renewable Choice Energy. Costs range from $20 to $50 per hour. For more information telephone 888-467-6256 or visit www.respectourplanet.com/climate-friendly-cruises.htm. Media contact: Tegan Firth, 415-983-8208, [email protected].

Mr. Toads Tours LLC

Mr. Toad's Tours is one "green" option to see San Francisco. Tour in style from Fisherman's Wharf on an 80-minute "Hop around the City" Tour, a 2.5 hour "Postcard San Francisco" Tour, or a 75-minute "San Francisco by Night" Tour, all in 10-passenger, propane powered vintage touring cars. For more information, visit www.mrtoadstours.com. Media contact: Charles Lundquist, 877-4MR-TOAD, [email protected].

MUSEUM NEWS

Major Art Exhibits on View at Asian Art , SFMOMA and de Young Museums

Princes, Palaces, and Passion: The Art of India's Mewar Kingdom brings to San Francisco the first exhibit outside of India to focus on the art of the fabled Rajasthani kingdom. On view through April 29, the exhibit has gathered 74 objects encompassing the brilliance of Mewar's artistic traditions. Picasso and American Art runs through May 28 at SFMOMA (www.sfmoma.org). Some 40 works by Picasso and more than 100 works by artists such as Jackson Pollock, Jasper Johns among others examines Picasso's role in the development of American art in the 20th century. Through June 10 Vivienne Westwood, a retrospective exhibition organized by London's Victoria and Albert Museum, makes its only U.S. stop on an international tour at the de Young (www.thinker.org). A celebration of Westwood's 40-year-long career, the show honors her fearless non-conformity and singular sources of inspiration often found in the past.

Media contacts:

. Asian Art Museum, Tim Hallman, 415-581-3711, [email protected]

. de Young Museum, Mary Jo Bowling, 415-750-3553, [email protected]

. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, Libby Garrison, 415-357-4177, [email protected]

Bouquets to Art Marries Art and Arbor at de Young Museum

Bouquets to Art returns to the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park from March 20-24. This popular poppy fest, the 23rd annual, features some 150 floral arrangements, designed by prominent Bay Area designers and garden clubs who interpret art in the museum's collections. For more information visit www.bouquetstoart.org or telephone 415-750-3504. Media contact: Mary Jo Bowling, 415-750-3553, [email protected].

GLBT Historical Society to Produce Exhibit on GLBT Veterans

Out Ranks: GLBT Military History from World War II to the Iraq War will be the first exhibit in the country to explore the experiences of GLBT veterans. Slated to open in June at the GLBT Historical Society, located on the third floor of 657 Mission St., the exhibit will have an extensive Web-based component and will be accompanied by programs and public forums. Out Ranks will draw detailed portraits of seven individuals who served during major military conflicts from World War II to the present. Currently working with the Library of Congress Veterans History Project, Dr. Steve Estes, curator of the show, has collected more than 50 oral histories from GLBT veterans. Among the source materials are papers from U.S. Air Force TSgt. Leonard Matlovich, a Vietnam War veteran, who in 1975 fought for the right to serve as an openly gay man. For more information, telephone 415-777-5455 or visit www.glbthistory.org. Media contact: Don Romsberg, 415-850-8580, [email protected]

ATTRACTIONS

Six Flags Marine World Renamed Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

The United States' original combination wildlife park, oceanarium and theme park, Six Flags Marine World has been given a new name, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, and a makeover. The Vallejo, Ca. attraction will feature three fun-filled areas - Land, Sea and Sky - when the park opens on March 24. Designed to foster both physical and emotional discovery, new features at the 140-acre park include Animal Outpost, an up-close experience with exotic animals; Explorers Outpost, a park planning center to sign up for animal adventures and plan the day; newly-themed fun-filled areas; new shows and entertainment including new killer whale and dolphin shows. For more information, telephone 707-643-6722 or visit www.sixflags.com. Media contact: Nancy Chan, 707-556-5227, [email protected].

TOURS & ACTIVITIES

New Fisherman's Wharf Pass Offers 33 Percent Savings on Wharf Attractions

Major attractions at Fisherman's Wharf are included in the new Wharf Pass being offered by TourCorp, Inc. Buyers can select six options from a group of 12 attractions for a savings of 33 percent. The pass allows users to visit each of the six attractions once over the course of three consecutive days. Options include a choice of a hop-on, hop-off CitySightseeing tour on a double decker bus or a San Francisco Gray Line Trolley Hop tour; bay cruise on Blue & Gold Fleet or Red & White Fleet; Ripley's Believe It or Not! or Pier 39's Turbo Ride; Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf or the USS Pampanito submarine tour; Aquarium of the Bay or board historic ships at Hyde Street Pier; Boudin Sourdough Bakery Museum tour or a ride on the Pier 39 carousel. Purchase price is $61 for adults and $38 for ages 5-11. For more information, visit www.wharfpass.com. Media contact: Terry Koenig, 415-726-3712, koenigand [email protected].

Mondays in March Admission Free at San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park

The customary $5 fee for adults to board the magnificent fleet of historic ships at Hyde Street Pier is waived for all four Mondays in March. Self-guided and ranger-led tours are available for the Balclutha, an 1886 "tall ship" that sailed around Cape Horn 17 times; the Eureka, an 1890 ferryboat that was instrumental in the development of the Bay Area; and the Hercules, a 1907 tugboat famous for her great power and dependability. For more information, telephone 415-447-5000 or visit www.nps.gov/safr. Media contact: John Cunnane, 415-561-7123.

Classic Wine Tours Offer Custom Luxury Outings in California's Wine Country

Love red? Prefer a nice Port? Pining for a Pinot Noir? Carlos Martell, founder of Classic Wine Tours, recognizes that wine connoisseurs, wine collectors and neophytes should all have the option of taking a tour of California's wine country tailored just for them. Featured destinations include private estates as well as boutique wineries in Napa, Sonoma, Monterey and the Santa Cruz mountains. Aimed at high-end leisure and VIP corporate clients the tours are a minimum of six hours and can include reservations at a top local restaurant, picnics in a novel setting, food pairing experiences and, of course, the classic wine tasting experience of "see, swirl, smell and taste." For more information, telephone 415-385-6556. Media contact: Andres Martell, 415-385-6556, [email protected].

Sierra Sam's Gold Rush Adventure Tour Company Visits Gold Rush Sites

A new tour company is offering a unique excursion to the Old Town Sacramento district on the banks of the American River, the period buildings and grounds of the State Capitol Museum in Sacramento, and the historic town of Coloma located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains where gold was discovered in 1848. Guided by "Sierra Sam," the adventure begins in San Francisco with a maximum of 12 guests per tour and includes a continental breakfast, a movie on the Gold Rush and allows time for gold panning and shopping for unusual gifts and souvenirs. For more information, telephone 702-807-7982 or visit www.goldrushadventure.com. Media contact: Tom Lipke, 702-807-7982, [email protected].

HOTEL NEWS

Galleria Park, One of the First Boutique Hotels, Gets $7.1 Million Makeover

Showcasing vibrant tones and upscale, eclectic finishings as well as a host of unique business traveler amenities, the "new" contemporary Art Deco Galleria Park Hotel (191 Sutter St., 415-781-3060, www.galleriapark.com), offers business and leisure travelers one of the only boutique alternatives in the heart of San Francisco's Financial District. Previously known as the Sutter Hotel, the property was constructed in 1911 and had not been renovated since the 1980s. Joie de Vivre Hospitality took over management from the Kimpton Group in June, 2005 and immediately embarked upon a linens to lobby upgrade of the 177-room hotel. Amenities include 300-thread-count Frette linens and bathrobes, flat-screen televisions and alarm clocks with MP3 connectors. The business "honor bar" is stocked with office materials and other unique features include ergonomic desk chairs, tech tool box, free Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) ticket to the airport, checkout packet complete with hotel receipt and airline boarding pass. The hotel also offers a nightly wine reception, rooftop terrace and walking track. Media contact: Lauren Eastman, 415-277-4916, [email protected].

Greystone Hospitality's Inn at Union Square and Hotel Griffon Redesigns Debut

The Inn at Union Square, (440 Post St., 415-397-3510, www.unionsquare.com) an "urban retreat" known for its quiet intimacy and ideal location, recently completed a $600,000 upgrade of its 30 guestrooms, lobby and lounge areas. Offering comfort and personal attention (each guest is greeted by name), the new Inn at Union Square features a wood-burning fireplace in the lounge on each level where complimentary champagne, hors d'oeurves and freshly baked cookies are served nightly. The Hotel Griffon (155 Steuart St., 415-495-2100, www.hotelgriffon.com) lives up to its billing as "an intimate hotel where San Francisco Bay is the stage." Updated with new wall covering, artwork, upholstery, carpet, lighting and window treatments, the 57-room, five-suite property offers bay views from many of the rooms. Rooms also feature flat screen TVs and a new signature bed package. Complimentary amenities include continental breakfast, nightly turndown service with a cookie, weekday morning Town Car service to the Financial District and high-speed wireless Internet access. Media contact: Nancy Uber, 415-672-2950, [email protected].

Ramada Plaza on Market Street Renamed Hotel Whitcomb - San Francisco

On March 6, 2007 the Ramada Plaza on Market Street was "reborn" as the Hotel Whitcomb - San Francisco (1231 Market St., 415-626-8000, www.hotelwhitcomb.com). "We chose to return to our original name when this hotel opened in 1916 to reflect the rebirth of gracious service in a historic hotel," according to General Manager Ralph Lee. The 459-room hotel includes a fine dining restaurant, cocktail lounge and more than 17,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space. Although recently renovated, the hotel will undergo an additional $5 million in phased upgrades. Rich in history, the building the hotel occupies was a temporary post-1906 earthquake City Hall. The Hotel Whitcomb joins more than 200 hotels, inns and resorts across the United States that are recognized by Historic Hotels of America for preserving and maintaining their historic integrity, architecture and ambiance. Media contacts: Gary Kohler, 415-487-4460, [email protected] or Mary Billingsley, 202-588-6061 ,[email protected].

RESTAURANT AND NIGHTCLUB NEWS

B Restaurant and Bar

720 Howard St., 415-495-9800, www.brestaurant.com

Media contact: Kevin Best, 415-867-1812, [email protected]

Located on the upper terrace of Yerba Buena Gardens above the Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial waterfall, B Restaurant and Bar's floor-to-ceiling glass walls capture a tantalizing view of downtown San Francisco. The 20-foot concrete bar is the ideal complement to rustic stonewalls and upholstered vintage chairs. Serves California bistro style cuisine for lunch and dinner daily, brunch Saturday and Sunday. Opened December 2006.

Joe DiMaggio's Italian Chophouse

601 Union St. 415-421-JOED (5633), www.joedimaggiosrestaurant.com

Media contact: Erin Smith, 925-944-2464, [email protected]

Located at the corner of Union and Stockton in the heart of North Beach, Joe DiMaggio's Italian Chophouse transports diners to San Francisco's most glamorous, unforgettable era by providing more than elegant dining but also an experience. A tribute to "The Yankee Clipper - Joltin' Joe," the menu features classic Italian dishes with a modern flair and a wine list of over 240 selections. Bridging the gap between vintage and modern, the d'ecor includes leather booths evoking a Rat-Pack era vibe, with intimate dining as well as private rooms available for banquets and private parties. Open at 3 pm daily. Opened June 2006.

Les Amis

568 Sacramento St., 415-291-9145, www.lesamissf.com

Media contact: Zack Bezunartea, 415-291-9145, [email protected]

French for "the friends," Les Amis is part of the same group that created B44, Plouf and Caf'e Bastille. This Financial District, 45-seat restaurant offers polished Nouvelle French cuisine in a charming setting. Lunch, dinner, chef's tasting menu, $25 prix fixe lunch and a $45 prix fixe dinner available. Lunch Monday-Friday, dinner nightly, closed Sunday. Opened late 2005.

Perbacco

230 California St., 415-955-0663, www.perbaccosf.com

Media contact: Brigid Finley, 415-274-2510, [email protected],

The refined cuisine of Northern Italy's Piemonte region figures prominently on Perbacco's menu. An Italian word that expresses pleasure and surprise, Perbacco brings an Italian sense of comfort and hospitality to San Francisco's financial district. Handmade salami, Meyer lemon ravioli and risotto with golden chanterelles attest to Chef/Owner Staffan Terje allegiance to Italy. Owner Umberto Gibin wine list also largely follows the Piemontese path, with a large selection of top wines from Piedmont, Barolo and Barbaresco. Lunch and dinner Monday-Friday, dinner only Saturday, closed Sunday. Opened October 2006.

Vessel

85 Campton Place, 415-433-8585, www.vesselsf.com

Media contact: Sandy Cha, 415-596-7509, [email protected]

Located near Union Square, Vessel is fast becoming a magnet for the chic and "grown up" nightclub crowd. Tucked into the foundation of the Niketown store which faces Stockton street, the underground party spot features golden distressed leather banquettes. low-rise teak tables with built-in ice buckets that change color with LED lighting, a multi-million dollar sound system, separately ventilated smoking room, a concierge service and the option of reserving prime seating space ($250 for table of six, $500 for a table of 12). Hours are 4 pm to 2 am, Tuesday through Saturday; available for private events as well. Opened February 2007.

SAN FRANCISCO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

JetBlue Begins SFO to New York/JFK and Boston Service on May 3, 2007

JetBlue Airways will offer new low-fare service between SFO and both New York/JFK and Boston beginning May 3, 2007. JetBlue will offer four flights daily between SFO and New York/JFK and one flight daily between SFO and Boston. For more information or reservations, call 1-800-JETBLUE (1-800-538-2583) or visit www.jetblue.com. Media contact: Michael McCarron, 650-821-4000, [email protected].

Midwest Airlines to Increase Service to SFO from Kansas City and Milwaukee

The carrier known for "the best care in the air," Midwest Airlines, has announced increased service to San Francisco as part of its strategic growth plan for 2007.The growth plan includes aggressive route expansion as well as the addition of at least six new destinations and as many as 12 new routes in 2007 - leading to a 20 percent increase in capacity this year.

Beginning June 1, Midwest will enhance its year-round Kansas City to SFO service from one to two nonstop roundtrip flights daily. The airline will also increase the duration of its nonstop seasonal service between Milwaukee and San Francisco - from May 1 through October 31 (two months longer than in 2006). For more information, visit www.midwestairlines.com. Media contact: Emma Pankenier,646-442-6764,[email protected].

Cell Mates: 60-Minute Parking Lot Eliminates Need to Circle Airport for Arrivals

SFO has created a free cell phone "waiting" parking lot to eliminate the need for drivers to circle the airport when picking up arriving passengers. Just a three-minute drive from the terminal, the cell phone lot is accessible from the San Bruno Avenue exit on U.S. 280, near the Long Term Parking Garage. Cars may remain in the cell phone lot for up to 60 minutes. For more information, visit www.flysfo.com. Media contact: Michael McCarron, 650-821-4000, [email protected].

For general information on hotel packages and reservations; events; activities and transportation in San Francisco, visit www.onlyinsanfrancisco.com. For lodging reservations, call 800-637-5196 within North America or 415-391-2000 elsewhere.

The 192-page San Francisco Visitor Planning Guide is available at the Visitor Information Center, 900 Market St., at the corner of Powell and Market streets, lower level, Hallidie Plaza. To receive a copy by mail, order online at www.onlyinsanfrancisco.com, call 415-391-2000, write to the San Francisco Convention & Visitors Bureau, 900 Market St., San Francisco, CA 94102 or send an email to [email protected]; international shipping charges will apply for requests from outside the United States.

Business Contact: