The Great Outdoors

Where to Grab Some Picnic Food Before Heading to the Park

Photo: irene/Flickr

It’s another scorcher by S.F. standards, and Indian summer is in full swing after one of the more miserably foggy summers that we’ve seen in years. So what are you still doing in the office? It is now time to cash in on any gold stars and credibility that you have, clock out early, and head to your nearest park or body of water with a bag full of wine, plastic cups, and good grub. Below, Grub Street gives you a quick selection of spots where you can satisfy your to-go appetite.


A.G. Ferrari - We’re fans of their cold lentil salads, chopped greens, gorgonzola cheese spread, and those little donut crackers. Also, they’ve got great cheeses, olives, and some swell and semi-unusual options for Italian wines.

Arlequin - They made it onto our earlier al fresco dining list, because of the shared back garden, but after all they’re a takeout place with Absinthe pedigree, offering some nice wine to boot.

Bi-Rite Market - This is a no-brainer for the Dolores Park-bound. We recommend any of the packaged salads in the refrigerator case, and that liter-sized Gruner Veltliner they sell with the beer-bottle cap.

Due Drop In - They’ve got some of the best rotisserie chicken in town, spiced with an unusual blend of Middle Eastern spices, and they’re right on the way to Dolores Park on Church Street near 17th.

Ike’s Place
(inside Lime) - You’ve heard they moved, right? Better call ahead, though. Actually, you have to now. 415-553-6888.

Il Cane Rosso - If you’re running out of time to get across town for sunset, and you work downtown, why not just rendezvous at the Ferry Building for some fine and fresh to-go options (3 courses for $25) and picnic on one of the public benches along the Embarcadero.

Local: Mission Eatery - Assuming you have a friend en route to Dolores from the deep Mission/La Lengua, tell them to grab a couple of Jake DesVoignes magical sandwiches and pickles, and some dessert from Knead Patisserie in back.

Spice Kit - Doesn’t a fresh Vietnamese wrap sound nice with a chilled glass of Riesling?

Where to Grab Some Picnic Food Before Heading to the Park