I thought the late-night Rapid Ride in the summer was awesome. It provided a big-city service in a small town. I think they should get that going year-round. I used it weekend nights. I live Downtown, but it allowed me to go to Nob Hill, see friends, have a couple drinks and go back Downtown without the use of my car.
Best Breakfast
Sunday brunch at Ambrozia. If you’re willing to splurge, it is the best brunch you’ve ever had. It’s just laid-back, mellow, with eclectic choices.
Best Band Overall
Technically, it would be Icky and the Yuks, but they don’t play anymore, so I’m going to have to go with Black Maria. They just put up a wall of sound. It punishes. I think Motörhead was louder than them, but they had much larger stacks.
Best Downtown Bar
Hands-down the Anodyne. It hasn’t changed in years. It’s nonpretentious. And it’s got inexpensive, solid drinks and a great staff.
Best Coffee
Java Joe’s, the Red Door Roasters. Solid cup of bean.
Best Local Crackpot
The guy with the newspapers who wears boxes on his shoes at the corner of Sixth Street and Central. He could be our next mayor.
Best Art Gallery
The Factory on 5th. A truly bohemian artspace that is accessible to just about anyone.
Best Gym
The only thing the Alibi may have forgotten is the best gym in town. I’m torn, but I'd better go with the Downtown Gold’s Gym. It’s downstairs from my office, so I can go twice a day.
