Artist Esther Baran's Guide To San Francisco

When searching for the best museums, art exhibits and architecture in a city, it never hurts to pick the brain of a local artist — especially one who's lived in that city all her life. That's exactly why we turned to lifelong San Francisco resident, artist and jewelry designer Esther Baran to find out some of her favorite spots around town.

Baran, who lives in Noe Valley, paints mainly in oils and watercolors, with subjects that range from animals and folk-tale inspired imagery to mythology. Her gallery is housed in Menlo Park's Allied Arts Guild, which she happened upon somewhat serendipitously seven years ago.

"My daughter found that there was a space to rent. She needed a place to run her non-profit," Baran explained. "When she heard about this place, she realized it would be a perfect place for a gallery. For me. And a revenue source for the nonprofit." So, Baran began hanging her work there, and the rest is history.

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When she's not creating artwork, Baran can be found exploring San Francisco's many museums, having a meal at Le Central or taking in the beauty of Golden Gate Park. Here are some of her must-see destinations, from the best lunch spot to the most iconic San Fran landmark.

In case you were wondering, her all time favorite place in San Francisco is not art related, but it is pretty romantic, if you ask us.

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How long have you lived in San Francisco? Most of my life.

What neighborhood do you live in? Noe Valley

What’s your occupation? Artist

Describe San Francisco in three words: Beautiful, international, diverse

What’s your favorite overall San Francisco restaurant? Le Central

Best Italian food: Tommaso’s

Best dessert: Tartine Bakery and Cafe

Best pizza: Il Fornaio in Corte Madera

Best spot for a quick lunch: La Taqueria

Best Sunday brunch: The Buena Vista Cafe

Best cup of coffee: La Boulangerie in Noe Valley

Best steakhouse: Harris’ Steakhouse

What hotel would you recommend for your out of town guests? The Scarlet Huntington — a very iconic, old-style hotel.

Favorite shopping venue: Ambiance (for my daughter — I rarely shop for clothes.)

Favorite charity event or organization: The Cooperative Restraining Order Clinic (CROC) and The Center for Relationship Abuse Awareness (my daughter’s organization)

Favorite cultural event: The Nutcracker at the San Francisco Symphony in December

Favorite cultural institution: The Legion of Honor Museum, the Rodin sculpture garden

What’s the best museum in San Francisco? The de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park

Best iconic San Francisco landmark to see or explore: The Japanese Tea Garden or the Arboretum in Golden Gate Park

What’s your all-time favorite spot in San Francisco? Specs' Twelve Adler Museum Cafe, where I met my husband 41 years ago

The best aspect of San Francisco is: The variety of people, ethnically and internationally. The hills, beaches, Golden Gate Park, museums and the Golden Gate Bridge

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You can view and shop Baran's paintings at Esther Baran Artworks Gallery, located in the Allied Arts Guild at 75 Arbor Road in Menlo Park.

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First Photo: Courtesy of Esther Baran