Ah,
Burning Man, that one glorious time of the year when half the city packs up their gear (and a lot of junk they plan to make into "art") and head to the desert. Next to Thanksgiving, this is probably the best week of the year to venture out to some of the hot spots you've been dying to check out but couldn't score a reservation to, didn't want to wait in line for, or couldn't stand the crowds at. Here's a brief breakdown of some of our favorite places to play while the burners are away.
SKIP THE LINES
This is the one week of the year when you might be able to bypass the brunch line at Zazie or Plow, grab a breakfast sandwich at Devil’s Teeth Baking Company or a burrito at La Taqueria in record time, snag a seat at Trick Dog’s bar, get right to getting your game on at Thriller Social Club, or make it into the Masonic Trader Joe's parking lot on a Sunday.
Also Check Out:
SKIP THE RESERVATIONS
Also Check Out:
SKIP THE CROWDS
This week brings a truly rare chance to have Dolores Park, the patios at Zeitgeist and Biergarten, and MUNI + BART (almost) all to yourself. (The 38 Geary crosstown bus will probably still suck. Some things never change.) Head to a Giants game and move a few sections – and price points – closer to the field. Have your pick of the freshest produce at a local farmers’ market. Enjoy a free museum day and admire the art without anyone blocking your view.
And, perhaps best of all: may you finally find a parking spot (hopefully)!
Written by Grace Orriss
Last Updated August 27, 2025
