Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
If breakfast is served, it's usually between 7:30am and 10:30am. Some diners and cafes
keep serving breakfast into the afternoon, or all day. Weekend brunch is a laid-back af-
fair, usually available from 11am until 3pm on Saturday and Sunday.
Like all things Californian, restaurant etiquette tends to be informal. Only a handful of res-
taurants require more than a dressy shirt, slacks and a decent pair of shoes; most places
require far less.
Tipping 18% to 20% is expected anywhere you receive table service.
Smoking is illegal indoors. Some restaurants have patios or sidewalk tables where
smoking is tolerated (ask first, or look around for ashtrays), but don't expect your neigh-
bors to be happy about secondhand smoke.
You can bring your own wine to most restaurants; a 'corkage' fee of $15 to $30 usually
applies. Lunches rarely include booze, though a glass of wine or beer, while not common
everywhere, is socially acceptable.
If you ask the kitchen to divide a plate between two (or more) people, there may be a
small split-plate surcharge.
Vegetarians, vegans and travelers with food allergies or restrictions are in luck - many
restaurants are used to catering to specific dietary needs.
EATING PRICE RANGES
The following price ranges refer to an average main course at dinner, unless otherwise
stated. These prices don't include taxes or tip. Note the same dishes at lunch will usually
be cheaper, even half-price.
$ less than $10
$$ $10 to $20
$$$ more than $20
Gay & Lesbian Travelers
Coastal California is a magnet for LGBTQ travelers. Hot spots include San Francisco's
Castro neighborhood; West Hollywood (WeHo), Silver Lake and Long Beach in LA; the
Hillcrest area of San Diego; and Guerneville and Calistoga in Napa Valley.
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