Knuckles News

The recently renovated Knuckles at the Wharf is the perfect home turf for viewing any sporting event, whether it be the NBA and NHL playoffs, baseball games or whatever the sport du jour might be. In addition to boasting great seats throughout the sports bar/restaurant, Knuckles features a few private booths with their own private television.

One of the most popular restaurants in Fisherman’s Wharf, Knuckles is a restaurant for all tastes, with a sports-friendly environment as well as a convivial, interactive atmosphere.

“Food Rules” promotion

Mondays with Mondavi:

Buy any regular priced appetizer and get a glass of Chardonnay, Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon by Canvas for only $4

Two for Tuesday:

Enjoy a Burger and Beer for only $10, that’s an Angus Burger with fries and herb dip, accompanied by a Heineken beer.

Thursday’s Social Mixer:

Mix it up on Thursday! Buy any regular priced appetizer and get a cocktail for $5. Choose from Diamond Cosmo, Classic Mojito or Diamond Bloody Mary.

Baseball day-game specials:

Every day from Noon-5:00 p.m., enjoy $3 pints of Bud or Bud Light, while enjoying MLB day games.

NHL & NBA Playoff special:

During any of the NHL or NBA playoff games, enjoy a bucket of 5 bottles of Coors Light or Miller Light for only $15.

Reservations and information: (415) 486-4303

THE HYATT AT FISHERMAN’S WHARF REVEALS PACKAGES TO SUIT ANY MOOD

As the best hotel in San Francisco’s #1 destination, the newly renovated Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf offers room packages that appeal to most any mood, including the “Amour Romance” Package;”Balance Relaxation” Package; “ Explore” Package; and the “Awaken Bed & Breakfast” Package.

“Amour Romance” Package

Especially designed for couples, the “Amour Romance” Package sets the stage for romance in one of the most romantic destinations in the world. Starting at only $179, the package includes: accommodations for two, for one night; full American breakfast for two (room service or in Knuckles); bottle of sparkling wine; chocolate covered strawberries; turndown

service (on request); and late check out to 2:00 p.m. (on request). Since true romantics can celebrate their love at any time of year, this option is available from now through the December 30, 2010.

“Balance Relaxation” Package

With a host of rejuvenating activities right outside the hotel’s front door, guests can check in with the“Balance Relaxation” Package, leave the car behind and bring balance back to life by enjoying a myriad of activities. This offer includes a sumptuous guest room for one night; full American breakfast for two (valid in hotel’s Knuckles Restaurant) ; and valet parking for one car . Rates for this package start at only $179.

“ Explore” Package

For those who want to get out and really enjoy the adventures of San Francisco, the hotel features the “Explore Local Discovery” Package, which offers accommodations for one night along with two cable car passes for unlimited, one-day use. Whether it’s “climbing halfway to the stars” or just getting from one place to another, the cable cars are not only the city’s most iconic landmark, but a charming and environmentally friendly means of transportation. Rates for this package start at only $154.

“Awaken Bed & Breakfast” Package

Perfect for those who just want the basics, the “Awaken Bed & Breakfast” Package features a guest room for up to two people as well as full American breakfast (in the hotel’s Knuckles Restaurant). Rates start at only $159.

Reservations and Information

For reservations and additional information, visit http:fishermanswharf.hyatt.com or call (415) 563-1234 or toll free (800) 233-1234 and click on or ask for the Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf “Special Offers.” For more information about what’s going on in San Francisco, visit the hotel’s blog at www.hyattatthewharf.blogspot.com.

In the Neighborhood....

Whole Lotta Sailing Going On

This year’s official kick-off to the San Francisco sailing season — Opening Day on the Bay — is a sight to behold as more than 300 sailboats and yachts take to the shimmering bay with the Golden Gate Bridge as a backdrop. It all starts April 25 at 10:30am with a U.S. Coast Guard cutter blessing each one of the boats in the parade. Luckily, you don’t need to own a yacht to be a part of the party. Local tour boat companies offer special catered trips that’ll provide a front-row seat.

HYATT AT FISHERMAN’S WHARF MAKES A GRACEFUL ENTRANCE INTO THE INDIAN WEDDING AND EVENT MARKET

Notably “the best hotel in San Francisco’s #1 destination,” the Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the city’s most coveted wedding and event venues. In addition to the variety of idyllic facilities, the hotel has just introduced special services that cater to the specific needs of the Indian community.

Recently established, Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf features an Indian Wedding package, which starts at $60 per person, plus tax and gratuity and includes location rental, hotel linens, professional service staff, dedicated Catering Manager and Banquet Manager, event room, set up items, allowance of outside Caterer, waived cake cutting fee, one complimentary guest room night for Bride and Groom. You will have the convenience of working directly with the outside caterer for your food items and a tasting. There are a wide variety of beverage services, which can be arranged directly with the hotel.

If you choose not have outside catering the standard wedding package ranges in prices from $60.00 - $100.00 per person and can be custom designed, the following inclusions apply for the big day: complimentary accommodations for the bride and groom, including Champagne and strawberries delivered to the room; special room rates for visiting guests; professional, on-site banquet and catering managers; white glove service; complimentary bartender fees (if over $250 is purchased); votive candles on tables; dance floor, staging needs, table set up and China; cake-cutting fee included; two complimentary hors D’oeuvres per person; complimentary butler passing service; Champagne toast for all guests; Hyatt Select wine with dinner; complete menu tasting prior to event; and menu cards for each guest setting. Enhancements are available at an additional cost, to include up lighting, flowers, and specialty linens.

The hotel also boasts newly renovated, chic guest rooms; world-class catering service and culinary options; and a myriad of special upgraded amenities and services. Additionally, the property’s central location and proximity to the city’s favorite attractions makes this hotel an ideal venue for the bridal party and guests alike. And, as “icing on the cake,” the hotel has made it easier to plan, with its new catering site at http://www.fishermanswharf.hyattcatering.com.

Whether brides and grooms envision a quiet wedding day with just an intimate group of guests or an intricately themed gathering with hundreds of family and friends, Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf is the perfect choice due to the property’s elegant facility and diverse menu options.

The North Point Lounge, accommodating up to 220 guests, has existing ambiance. This is a must see location for your special day, with a focal point of the stained glass skylight that sits above an elegant centerpiece fountain, the room is further warmed with a fireplace setting off to one side. The Presidio Ballroom, accommodating up to 240 guests, boasts a ceiling of skylights that cast natural light into the venue. Those looking for a unique outdoor reception location, will enjoy the hotel’s beautiful pool deck courtyard, which is ideal for pre- or post- nuptials.

The hotel’s professional catering staff compliments the many facility features, offering a personalized wedding planner to help you customize your special day. Among the professional resources the Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf has a list of preferred photographers, DJs, bands, linens, florists, bakeries, transportation; all are familiar with the hotel and work with the staff regularly.

The Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf offers additional events to enhance your wedding weekend. Extend your event by adding on a rehearsal dinner, post wedding extended reception in the newly added Enoteca Musto wine lounge or family brunch the morning after.

For more information, visit www.fishermanswharf.hyattcatering.com or contact:
Director of Catering, Suzanne Premo, as follows: Hyatt at Fisherman's Wharf, 555 North Point Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; 415-486-4405; or suzanne.premo@hyatt.com. Additional information about the hotel’s facilities is available at www.fishermanswharf.hyatt.com.

Check out the reviews! http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-9739-SF-Honeymoon-Travel-Examiner~y2010m3d29-Trend-Hotels-are-courting-ethnic-weddings

HYATT AT FISHERMAN’S WHARF HITS A HOME RUN WITH 2010 ROOM PACKAGE

With opening day just around the corner, the Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf recently introduced the novelty “Home Run” room package to accommodate local fans and those from visiting teams.

Especially designed with baseball fans in mind the Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf is within easy access to the San Francisco Giant’s home turf, via the city’s historic F-Line trolleys. The “Home Run” package will have fans cheering with the inclusion of a newly renovated guest room for two; complimentary appetizer in the city’s sports-friendly Knuckles at the Wharf, located at the hotel; two all-day MUNI passes, which include access on the F-Line trolleys and cable cars; and complimentary daily parking for one car. Rates start at $214 per night.

Hyatt at Fisherman's Wharf is located at 555 North Point Street, San Francisco, California, USA 94133. For reservations and additional information, visit http:fishermanswharf.hyatt.com* or call (415) 563-1234 or toll free (800) 233-1234

The hotel features 313 spacious guest rooms boasting the plush, new Grand Bed with pillow-top mattresses; multifunction workstation with ergonomic chair; and luxurious bath with deluxe amenities. Guest services and amenities include Wi-Fi service throughout the hotel; 24-hour automated business center; complimentary transportation to the Financial District; newly renovated 24-hour StayFit @ Hyatt Fitness Center; outdoor heated pool and Jacuzzi; and pool tables at Knuckles.

Dining and Entertainment options range from Knuckles at the Wharf and Enoteca Musto wine lounge as well as room service.

Conveniently located across the street from the Mason/Powell Cable Car line, nearby attractions include Alcatraz, Pier 39, The Cannery, Fisherman's Wharf, Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Cruises, Coit Tower, Lombard Street, Ghirardelli Square, Aquarium of the Bay and North Beach.

Direct link to offer: http://www.fishermanswharf.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/offers/details.jsp?pid=2229&offerCode=&specialOfferId=29801920&corp_id=78440

"Senior Moments" Package at Hyatt at the Wharf!

As the best hotel in San Francisco’s #1 destination, the newly renovated Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf recently introduced a special package entitled “Senior Moments” for those 62 and older.

From April 1-June 30, 2010, guests 62 and over can book the hotel’s senior rate offer, which is based on 25% off of rack rates starting at $127.

Hyatt at Fisherman's Wharf is conveniently located to so many of the popular San Francisco attractions that appeal to senior travelers, including Fisherman’s Wharf, Ghirardelli Square, Pier 39 and the Cable Cars, to name a few. The hotel resides at 555 North Point Street, San Francisco, California, USA 94133. For reservations and additional information, visit http:fishermanswharf.hyatt.com* or call (415) 563-1234 or toll free (800) 233-1234.

*direct link to offer: http://www.fishermanswharf.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/offers/details.jsp?pid=2229&offerCode=&specialOfferId=29801920&corp_id=78440

ENOTECA MUSTO WINE LOUNGE OFFERS A “FLIGHT” OF INSPIRING OPTIONS FOR WINE ENTHUSIASTS

Enoteca Musto wine lounge is a “crush” waiting to happen. Featuring a variety of monthly winemaker evenings as well as a weekly wine & cheese evening every Friday, this new venue is the perfect watering hole for wine enthusiasts and those interested in gathering in a convivial atmosphere that focuses on the many attributes of wine and all its accompaniments.

For the next four months, Enoteca Musto will highlight a different winemaker/brewer whose beverages will be paired with Chef Robert Carr’s inspired menu. For the April 14 event, the wine lounge will feature wines of Cambria.

On a more frequent basis, Enoteca Musto features a Friday Wine & Cheese evening from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. For only $15 per person, guests will enjoy two half glasses of featured wine and chef’s selection of artisan cheese and accompaniments.

Enoteca Musto is a chic wine lounge in a private, club-like setting. Enoteca Musto highlights wine from California’s wine country and small plates featuring artisanal cheeses, cured meats and local seasonal products. The new wine lounge is an ideal setting to enjoy the company of friends, entertain clients and gather for a quick respite at the end of the day.

Located at the Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf, Enoteca Musto is open daily from 4:00 to 10:00 p.m. For more information, call (415) 563-1234.

March Absolut Madness

Come to Knuckles and root on your favorite team(s) during March Madness. In addition to the amazing sports viewing ambiance, Knuckles is featuring several specials to tempt your taste buds:

$5 Calamari appetizer

$5 Wings

$5 Private Label Wine

$2 Off on all draft beers

$1 Off all Absolut Cocktails

Be sure to mention you heard about these specials via Facebook or Twitter ~

Enoteco Musto Wine Event - March 16th

This month’s Enoteca Musto Wine Event will be held on March 16 at 6pm. Only $25 per person for the three-course tasting menu. Featuring Murphy Goode Winery wines as noted in the following pairings: Butter poached Pacific Oyster, Leeks and Caviar served with Sauvignon Blanc; Chevre and Potato Croquette, Toy Box Mushrooms and Crisp Prosciutto served with Pinot Noir; and Braised Short Rib with Creamy Polenta and Wild Arugula served with Merlot.

Knuckles Scores Specials And Private Booths For All Upcoming Games

Located at the Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf, the recently renovated Knuckles at the Wharf is celebrating sports with a line up special offers for everything from European Soccer and World Cup to March Madness and NBA games, as follows:

- European Soccer (from now though May 22): $17 buckets of five beers of Heineken

- March Madness (from March 14 until April 5): Absolut Madness-$1 off any Absolut cocktail

- NBA games (through the playoffs and championship): $15 buckets of five beers, with a choice of Miller Lite or Coors Lite

- World Cup (June 11 until July 11): $17 buckets of five beers from around the world

Want to Make it a Private Affair?

Additionally, Knuckles is also offering a limited number of private booths for and of these 2010 games and Enoteca Musto Wine Lounge is also available for a private party of up to 40 people. With a private television in each booth, guests can reserve their “turf” for six to eight people at a minimum food and beverage expenditure of only $40 per person. The adjacent Enoteca Musto will feature a large projection screen and can accommodate a group of up to 40 people, also with a minimum food and beverage expenditure of only $40 per person or a minimum total price of $1,500. Special menus for both food and beverages can be provided or guests can order ala carte.

Reservations and information, call (415) 202-3612

www.hyattatthewharf.blogspot.com

555 North Point Street in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf

The Hyatt At Fisherman’s Wharf Reveals The No Package Room Package

As the best hotel in San Francisco’s #1 destination, the newly renovated Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf offers the “No Package” Room Package for those that are looking for the greatest value. Available for those booking an early weekend stay of 2-4 nights, with check in on any Thursday from now through April 30, 2010, the “No Package” rates represent a $10-40 discount on the lowest available rates, with the “No Package” Room Package rates starting at only $119. So, for those that want to start their weekend early, this is the ideal value with no frills or bells and whistles attached.

For reservations and additional information, visit http:fishermanswharf.hyatt.com or call (415) 563-1234 or toll free (800) 233-1234 and click on or ask for the Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf “Start Your Weekend Early.”

Look who's talking...

Theresa and I decided to do something different this Valentines' Day, so we abandoned the tired old cliches such as heart-shaped boxes of candy and Hallmark cards in favor of a relaxing four-day weekend in San Francisco.

We arrived at Los Angeles International Airport a couple hours early, on the off chance that our flight was going to depart on time. We got our boarding passes, and proceeded to the security checkpoint. My carry-on was the lucky winner of a more thorough inspection because I was bringing along "Wheezer," my CPAP machine. I have no problem with the extra scrutiny, because safety is the first priority and you never know when Al-Qaida will start disguising bombs as sleep-apnea treatments. During the examination of my bag, the TSA officer also confiscated my shaving cream, which resembled a can of plastic explosive or something.

Here's the funny part. I don't mean "ha-ha" funny, like Sarah Palin getting hit by a bus, this is more like "how the hell does this happen in post-9/11 America" funny. Later on, when we got to our hotel, Theresa discovered that she'd left her three-inch locking blade knife in her purse rather than in the checked baggage. That's right, folks, the knife made it through the security checkpoint undetected. Apparently, TSA believes that a woman in possession of a knife poses less of a threat than a 6'3" guy wielding a can of Barbasol. That, my friends, is profiling and I strenuously object.

No trip to the L.A. airport would be complete without a celebrity sighting. At our gate, I saw an old lady that used to be in commercials. You guessed it, it was the corpse of Margaret Hamilton!

Not really. I still can't remember her name, or the commercials she starred in, but believe me when I tell you if you saw her, you'd immediately point and call out, "HEY! IT'S THAT LADY FROM THAT COMMERCIAL!" Actually, it's been driving me batty that I can't remember what she was in. I've run every Google search I can think of, but it's no use. It wasn't Josephine the Plumber, and it wasn't Mother Nature. If you could help me out, I'd be eternally grateful or at least be able to sleep at night.

So anyway, our flight out of Los Angeles was, in theory, scheduled to leave at 3:55 but here's a big surprise -- we were delayed. At about 3:00, the following announcement came over the loudspeaker:

"Flight 1582 to San Francisco is being delayed until 4:55. However, do not leave the gate area, as the flight may actually depart prior to that time, or even at the originally scheduled departure time. There is also the possibility that the flight will have to be delayed further."

Did you get that? Either the flight was going to be on-time, delayed, or delayed even further. Why not just make the announcement, "We are pretty sure that flight 1582 will be departing at some point in the future."

We left shortly after 5:00.

We arrived in San Francisco without incident, which is to say "late, tired, and hungry" and took a cab to the hotel. We stayed at the Hyatt Fisherman's Wharf, which I highly recommend to any of you who may be traveling to the Bay Area. Since we hadn't eaten, we decided to walk down to the wharf, where we had dinner at a very nice restaurant called Neptune's Palace. I had the shrimp alfredo, which was delicious. However, when I asked for a glass of water, the waitress informed me that they were having a problem with their plumbing so all the water was, and I quote, "yellow". I told her to forget about the water, and I spent the rest of the meal trying not to think about where the carbonated water in my Diet Coke had come from.

We slept in on Saturday, and then took the cable car to Chinatown for lunch. For those of you who have never been to San Francisco, I'd like to point out that the city's landscape resembles Magic Mountain's famous roller coaster "Colossus." So we got off the cable car and walked down Clay Street, and by that I don't mean that we walked in a certain direction on Clay Street, I mean that we walked, literally, DOWN Clay Street at approximately a 70-degree angle.

We ate at a lovely place called The Oriental Pearl. During our meal, we noticed two women at the table next to us enjoying an appetizer consisting of, as far as I could tell, eyeballs. At another table, there was a family who really should've opted for a more suitable restaurant like, say, McDonald's. The four-year old boy, who clearly did not possess an "inside voice," insisted on using his chopsticks as drum sticks and his chair as a jungle gym. This continued until his father gave him his cell phone so Junior could talk to, I'm guessing, his grandmother. Obviously, I couldn't hear Grandma's end of the conversation, but everything she said prompted Junior to reply, "I'M EATING CHICKEN!"

We finished our lunch, and I must tell you the food was outstanding, and walked UP Clay Street to catch another cable car. We spent the rest of the afternoon shopping, sight-seeing, and relaxing back at the hotel. That evening, we went to a comedy club called Punchline, and saw the hilarious Dana Gould.

Sunday morning, we had brunch with my brother Eric and his girlfriend, who live in the Haight-Ashbury area of San Francisco. We ate at Crepes on Cole which, despite its "hole in the wall" atmosphere (or maybe because of it), turned out to be our most enjoyable dining experience of the weekend (no disrespect toward Neptune's Place or The Oriental Pearl intended).

The rest of our trip included a walk down Lombard Street (also known as "the world's crookedest street"), a bay cruise that took us around Alcatraz and under the Golden Gate Bridge, and a visit to the Aquarium of the Bay.

MOMENTARY DIGRESSION

I don't know who came up with the idea of serving clam chowder in a bowl made of sourdough bread, but he is a genius and should receive a Nobel Prize.

END OF MOMENTARY DIGRESSION.

On Monday we took a cab to the airport two hours early, in the foolishly-optimistic hope that our flight would leave on time. It didn't, of course, so we sat around the airport reading and partaking of over-priced snack foods.

All in all, Theresa and I had a fantastic weekend, and we'll definitely be returning to the City by the Bay in the near future. And next time, I'll remember not to pack my suspicious can of shaving cream in my carry-on bag.

Win a Weekend for Two in San Francisco!

Interested in winning a weekend for two in San Francisco? Become a friend on Facebook and/or follow us on Twitter to become eligible for the prize drawing. You must befriend or follow by February 28 to be considered. The entire prize package includes accommodations for two nights; $25 food and beverage credit; and complimentary valet parking at the hotel.

Become a friend: http://www.facebook.com/hyatt.fishermanswharf?ref=ts

Follow us: http://twitter.com/SFHyattAtWharf

Hint: Increase your chances to win if you join us on both sites!

Watch the Olympics at Knuckles!

Knuckles at the Wharf is the perfect home turf for viewing the 2010 Winter Olympics. From February 12-28, Knuckles will be featuring $15 buckets of five beers (choice of Miller Lite, Coors Lite or Molson Canadian)as well as a hearty menu of tailgate favorites and specialty cocktails.

Chocolate Lovers Event at Enoteca Musto

In the Neighborhood....Chinese New Year February 6-28, 2010

Over 100 units will participate in the Southwest Airlines Chinese New Year Parade. A San Francisco tradition since just after the Gold Rush, the parade continues to delight and entertain the many hundreds of thousands of people that come to watch it on the street or tune in to watch it on television on KTVU Fox 2 or KTSF Channel 26, 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Nowhere in the world will you see a lunar new year parade with more gorgeous floats, elaborate costumes, ferocious lions, exploding firecrackers , and of course the newly crowned Miss Chinatown U.S.A. and her court. A crowd favorite is the spectacular 201' Golden Dragon ("Gum Lung") It takes a team of over 100 men and women from the martial arts group, White Crane to carry this dragon throughout the streets of San Francisco.

This year's Southwest Airlines Chinese New Year Parade, taking place Saturday February 27
from 5:15pm-8:00pm, promises to warm your heart and electrify your senses, come rain or shine. For more information visit http://www.chineseparade.com

The Hyatt At Fisherman’s Wharf Inspires Guests To Visit One Of The Most Romantic Destinations In The World

As the best hotel in San Francisco’s #1 destination, the newly renovated Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf is romancing couples with two San Francisco-inspired Valentine’s Day packages, namely the “Fisherman’s Wharf Crab Festival Chocolate Lovers” Romance Package and the “Amour Romance” Package.

“Fisherman’s Wharf Crab Festival Chocolate Lovers” Romance Package

Especially designed for crustacean lovers, the “Fisherman’s Wharf Crab Festival Chocolate Lovers” Romance Package starts at only $224 and includes: accommodations for two, for one night; two all day Cable Car passes; complimentary Dungeness Crab cake appetizer in the hotel’s Knuckles at the Wharf restaurant; a Ghirardelli Chocolate amenity; two tickets to Enoteca Musto’s wine and chocolate pairing event, featuring Gruet Brut, New Mexico, NV, paired with white chocolate & pistachios; La Crema Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, 2007, paired with Dark Chocolate; and Quinta de Noval Tawny Port, paired with milk chocolate. This special offer is available on Saturday, February 13, 2010, only.

“Amour Romance” Package

For more traditional couples, the “Amour Romance” Package sets the stage for romance. Starting at only$189, the package includes: accommodations for two, for one night; full American breakfast for two (room service or in Knuckles); bottle of Champagne; chocolate covered strawberries; turndown service (on request); and late check out to 2:00 p.m. (on request). Since true romantics can celebrate their love at any time of year, this option is available from now through the December 30, 2010.

For reservations and additional information, visit http:fishermanswharf.hyatt.com or call (415) 563-1234 or toll free (800) 233-1234 and click on or ask for the Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf “Fisherman’s Wharf Crab Festival Chocolate Lovers” Romance or “Amour Romance” packages.

In the Neighborhood....Chinese New Year

SHEN YUN COMING TO SAN FRANCISCO

(formerly called 'Chinese New Year Spectacular')

Celebrate the New Year with an unforgettable event. Inspired by the rich spirit of ancient culture, Shen Yun Performing Arts brings to life classical Chinese dance and music in a gloriously colorful and exhilarating show. For 10 days only, its masterful choreography and graceful routines will light up the stage, with gorgeously costumed dancers moving in stunning synchronized patterns. State-of-the-art backdrops conjure up celestial palaces and blossoming landscapes, while a live orchestra combines the best of Chinese and Western composition. The breathtaking beauty of Shen Yun is not to be missed.

Running in San Francisco from January 2-7. For more information CLICK HERE

In the Neighborhood....Anniversary of the Sea Lions' Arrival

PIER 39 commemorates the 20th anniversary of the sea lions’ arrival at PIER 39. Through the years, California sea lions have taken over PIER 39’s K-Dock to the delight of spectators. Each January, these marine mammals return in droves for herring season in San Francisco Bay. In celebration of the sea lion’s anniversary, visitors can watch the sea lions in close proximity, talk with knowledgeable Marine Mammal Center docents about these amazing animals and stop by the Whale Bus for a complete educational experience. PIER 39 invites visitors to see for themselves why K-Dock in PIER 39’s West Marina, has been declared a “Watchable Wildlife” viewing area by the California Watchable Wildlife Project. Come watch Friday January 15, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Wine and Cheese Nights at Enoteca Musto

In the Neighborhood....Safeway Holiday Ice Rink at Union Square

Safeway Holiday Ice Rink at Union Square

Open from Wednesday, November 11, 2009 through Monday, January 18, 2010, the hours of operation are 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Sunday through Thursday and from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. (Note: the rink will close at 9:30 p.m. on December 31). Sessions are 90 minutes and start every other even hour. Dates and times are subject to change.

Admission is $9 for adults; $4.50 for children eight and under, Monday through Friday until 6:00 p.m. There is a 50 cent surcharge from Friday at 6:00 p.m. until closing on Sunday. Skate rental is $4 with a $1 surcharge for hockey skates.

Check out the Ice Rink Blog for special events.