A Baby, a move to the Castro, a tiny Croatian island, and the best chicken in Marin
A baby, a move to the Castro, a tiny Croatian island, and the best chicken in Marin
Read MoreReborn, Revamped, Reimagined: Two Iconic Hotels + Foreign Cinema Resurrected + More.
Coral Sands Inn & Cottages. Photo: Boz Gagovski
Bury Me Here: Coral Sands Inn & Cottages, Harbour Island, Bahamas
Could this be the most photogenic resort on the planet? Typically when I share a favorite property of mine, I give you a little glimpse and search hard to show you just how great something looks in person. Sometimes it takes forever. In this case, Boz Gagovski exceptionally captured this newly reborn resort on Harbour Island, in the Bahamas. If you’ve been reading this newsletter for a while, you know I have a great love affair for this special island that’s just a mile wide and a few miles long. It’s the discreet billionaires island. The ‘we could go to St. Barths, but we choose Briland Town’ as it’s commonly referred to by locals and regulars. Book your dream vacation for a honeymoon, family trip, anniversary or just a getaway to splurge in this stunning paradise - be sure not to miss the most gorgeous pickleball courts you’ve ever seen, or the best pancakes and waffles of your life.
An Icon Returns: The Huntington Hotel, San Francisco (Nob Hill), Ca
Opening in March 2026, The Huntington Hotel returns to Nob Hill, offering a world-class, five-star boutique experience rooted in San Francisco’s enduring legacy. The embodiment of an urban estate, The Huntington Hotel will usher in a new expression of luxury, offering an experience intimate in scale with a service style that is warm yet personal, unlike any other in the city.
The top of Nob Hill has been lonely without the Huntington and its legendary Nob Hill Spa, and infamous restaurant and bar, The Big Four (which is now open and booking fast.) I’ll be saving more on those two gems in another issue of The Little Guide, so you’ll have to check back later!
Foreign Cinema, San Francisco, Ca
Eat/Drink Here: Foreign Cinema, San Francisco (Mission), Ca
I’ve been going to the foreign cinema for over 20 years now. I’ll still never forget the first time I went and my mind was blown. Back then in this part of the mission it was very disconnected from anything cool. When you got out of a car and looked around to try to find the entrance you found yourself very confused and a little intimidated by the neighborhood. When you went inside, you quickly discovered an absolute oasis that was like nothing you’ve seen in the city at the time nor since that felt so authentic. Without any major renovations, the restaurant is still one of, if not the most beautiful in San Francisco. The design is timeless. The vibe is warm and modern and it always feels like you’re in a special place at the right time. It had been a long time since I went there and felt that same well rounded hit at every point / service, food, ambience… I’ve now gone twice in the last year and it’s without a doubt the best it’s ever been. From brunch to dinner. Cocktails before a night out in the Mission. There’s no wrong way to spend a night at Foreign Cinema, and the time to go is now.
Hillary Engel, Master Colorist
Stylist Spotlight: Hillary Engel, Master Colorist, DAVID JAMES. | Marin
Master Colorist. Master Chef. Master of Pop Culture you didn’t know you needed to know. That’s Hillary. She trained at Vidal Sassoon where she learned their rigorous methods and avante garde ways, and then created her own style outside of the severe modernist approach. Hillary is known for her deep color theory knowledge that she learned in art school prior to her cosmetology journey. This comes into play often as she’s become the queen of transformative color and crafting brilliant dynamic woven dimension in her ever-trusting clients. In addition - I am often the lucky recipient of some of her cooking dishes she makes at home and shares with me in the salon. I say this every time - everything she ever makes is the best version of it I’ve had anywhere. Be sure to ask her about her homemade saffron ricotta lasagna with a pistachio, lemon, red beets mixture. It was the most beautiful and tasty things I’ve ever enjoyed.
Song of the Month: Brazilian Soul by The Knocks feat. Sofi Tukker
The days are getting longer. The weather is getting warmer. This is a track you’ll be playing for a few months and everytime it comes on you’ll be thinking about that special warm place by the water that makes you happy.
DAVID JAMES. Styling Products. Made by Hundreds of Thousands of Clients, Real-World, Behind-The-Chair Experience
DAVID JAMES. | The Shop
Our new store has launched and it’s been inspiring to see all of the places our deliveries are going. How people are finding us and what person told another to get it. From California to Manhattan and everywhere in between this has been one of the highlights of my career.
This line of styling products is a direct response to our needs to perform for clients when we are not there to style it for them. Each product was specifically made from experience of hundreds of thousands of clients hair in my hands, the feedback and influence from the DJS. team, and most importantly the clients themselves.
In an era of fast companies, marketing executives creating baseless companies without any behind-the-chair experience and Tik-Tok telling you way to buy - let us help educate you from real-world experience, and honest takes. Not all of our products are going to be for you. We still have so many products in various stages of creation that we are incredibly excited for. One thing I can promise, is that we stand behind our team, and any time you step in our salon or purchase our products, we guarantee it’s going to be one you’ll want to keep or we’ll refund or credit you. Ask us how to use it. How much? When? Will it work on dry or wet hair? We are here for you at your disposal. We want to be your professional not just in the salon but at home too. Your support means the world to Us. Every product purchased goes back into our ethos to create new ones to allow even more types of styles, hair types and toys for your hair routine. This year will be even more special when we drop a big announcement in support of something we’re incredibly passionate about.
Stay tuned. Buy some products. Feel the hype. Make our salon thrive and we’ll make your looks thrive. It’s a win-win.
A LITTLE NOTE:
Hi! I’m DAVID JAMES. (the guy on the left awkardly standing in a shady alley after a few drinks in Split, Croatia) I realize many of you don’t know me as I work mostly in my Marin studio, so I thought I would introduce myself. Many of you have met me in the salon or had conversations over the years, but didn’t realize that there was actually a person named David James (Karvasales) working in the salon.It’s truly hilarous to see when people find out it’s the short guy that still dresses 10 years younger than he should. So often they’re expecting an old british man, and I dig that… So hope this puts a face to a name. Imagine a pretty little lady next to me and that would be my girlfriend Valerie. Squint really hard a bit more and try to imagine a Mini-David will be coming in less than 6 weeks from now in the form of a baby boy, to be named Stinson James.
Catch you around and thanks for supporting myself and the whole team. It’s hard to make it in San Francisco not working in tech, but kind clients like yourselves make it possible and we truly love and appreciate you all.
An Oahu Itinerary, Izzy's over LOJ'S, Must-Have NYE Bubbles + more…
Reconsider: Oahu, Hawaii.
For many of us living in California, the truth is we don’t see Hawaii as a bucket list. The proximity to go to Mexico or Hawaii sometimes makes us not truly appreciate it enough. On top of that, people that go often tend to get funny with Hawaii and start to judge people for where they go. In my family, it was always about the solitude and raw rugged beauty of Kauai. As I got older, I started to find myself getting a little island fever after a few days on that majestic islands. Maui was for honeymooners. The big island is for the ultra-wealthy or the adventurous divers and car campers. Oahu, and Waikiki in particular were always easy to rag on. Crowds. First time beachgoers. Luxury boutiques. An urban city. Then in my 30’s it clicked: I want the natural beauty by day, and the ability to eat well, get social, find a crowd - then turn it up and rage until 4am should I so choose. That’s Oahu. That’s Waikiki. That’s what this article can or cannot create.
Best Waikiki Hotels For All Ranges:
$ White Sands Hotel - Throwback - think ACE Hotel vibes. Fun as hell. Boys Trip-worthy. Green Lady. 8 min walk to beach. Great restaurants very close.
$$ Alohilani - Sexy. One block off the beach. Major value for the price. My usual.
$$$ The Royal Hawaiian - The Pink Palace needs no introduction. It’s the crown jewel of Waikiki. I say grab a drink and look around but rooms are pretty tired.
$$$$ Halekulani - If you’re a hotel snob, this is the only one for you. It’s still owned locally and the hospitality shows. Location is rare for relaxing in Waikiki.
IF I WAS YOU for one of the days:
In Hawaii, your body naturally wakes up early. From either the The White Sands Hotel or Alohilani, walk to the Hideout at the Laylow Waikiki and settle in for a coffee to wake up. Today you’re going to skip their epic avocado toast, cause you have other plans. Finishing up coffee or taking it with you while you walk to your rental car parked on Ala Wai Blvd - rare free overnight street parking - closest to your hotels cross street, saves $50+ a day. If you’re at Royal Hawaiian or Halekulani just valet or it’s a trek! Have a car for at least two of your days on the island. Then you’re going to skip the coastal drive for the way pack as you head to Kailua to have breakfast at the rightfully popular restaurant, Over Easy. You can’t go wrong on the menu, but the Kailua Pork is a specialty. Ask if they have a Papaya special - you’ll love it. Then pop by the famous beaches of Kailua or Lanikai (O.G. Corona Beer, beach commercials) but you may get bored if it’s crowded, or save it for another night of Steaks and Martinis at Buzz’s famous steakhouse. It’s lively, tasty, boozy, and just perfectly relaxing.
After Over Easy, hop back in the car and head to Makapuu Beach. Some will hike to the lighthouse. Very few will brave the trek to the secret tide pools. But the beach alone is my absolute tranquil happy place. The water can be rough for those not used to waves, but man is it the softest water, and the most powdery sand. The volcanic rock mixed with the well-watered flora just makes the blue water pop just right.
On your way home you’re gonna take the coastal drive, and stop at the Leonard’s Food Truck location and get a custard or coconut cream filled Malasada. You’ll thank me for it.
Get back to Waikiki. Take a nap. Hit a pool. If you crave some epic sushi in an unpretencious and off the beating path vibe, Sushi ii is some of the islands best. Then have a Mai Tai at the HeyDay Tiki Bar until the secret of Waikiki’s speak easy scene within 100ft is open and you can ask the reception of the The White Sands to show you the way to The Green Lady. Then stumble home and sleep like a baby, or head to China Town and party until the wee hours. The choice is yours!
Kailua Pork Hash at Over Easy.
The NYE BUBBLES YOU NEED
Let's celebrate—whether it's a party, a dinner with friends, or just a great night in, nothing beats real Champagne to make it fun.
My client JJ Clifton of Avanelle Wine Company has been tipping me off to the best new spots for nearly 20 years—State Bird, Trick Dog, Single Thread, you name it—he always knew first. Now he's teamed up with Angie at Birba, the super hot wine bar just down the street from our San Francisco salon in Hayes Valley. Cozy vibe, great wines, delicious food, and that garden patio? Perfection.
For the holidays, they're offering us a special Holiday Champagne Trio of true Grower Champagnes—artisan bottles from family farmers who grow, harvest, and craft their own wines. Far superior to mass-market brands like Veuve Clicquot.
The lineup:
Voirin-Jumel Brut l'Assemblage
Pinot Noir-Chardonnay blend; stone fruit, pastry, spice, chalk. Crisp and vinous.
$49.99 bottle / $44.99 in 3-pack
Henriet-Bazin Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut
Grand Cru Pinot Noir; sappy fruit, spicy aromatics, luxurious finish.
$64.99 bottle / $59.99 in 3-pack
Guy Charlemagne Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut
Pure Chardonnay from Le Mesnil; elegant, focused, harmonious class.
$74.99 bottle / $69.99 in 3-pack
Mixed Holiday Trio
One of each bottle — $174.99
Limited availability!
Interested?
Purchase from Birba’s online shop —> here.
Enjoy responsibly!
Cheers to good times!
Go Eat: Izzy’s > LOJ’s
San Francisco loves a comeback story. Especially when it’s served with a martini, great lighting, and a room full of people who know exactly why they’re there.
Lately, the city’s been buzzing about a quiet rivalry: Little Original Joe’s versus Izzy’s—two old-school SF institutions, both recently refreshed, both packed nightly, both claiming their place in the modern Italian-American and old-school steakhouse revival. Think tuxedoed servers, nostalgia layered with polish. Very New York. Very if you know, you know.
I’ve spent time in both rooms. And while LOJ’s may be the louder crowd favorite, for me, the edge goes to Izzy’s.
Let’s start with the vibe: Little Original Joe’s—LOJ’s if you’re a regular—leans into its legacy hard. It’s buzzy, energetic, and undeniably popular. There’s comfort in that familiarity, like slipping into a jacket you’ve owned for years. The food hits the notes you expect, the crowd is lively, and it feels very San Francisco in the way only a neighborhood staple can.
But Izzy’s? Izzy’s feels intentional.
After its recent remodel, walking into Izzy’s instantly reminded me of Carbone in NYC—that elevated, cinematic take on Italian-American dining where every detail matters. The lighting is warm and flattering. The design is layered, rich, and confident without trying too hard.
Service is where Izzy’s really separates itself. Polished but relaxed. Attentive without hovering. There’s a rhythm to the room that feels curated rather than chaotic. You’re not rushed, but you’re also not forgotten. It’s the kind of place where you notice how good you feel sitting there, and that matters.
And then there’s the energy. Izzy’s attracts a crowd that appreciates nuance: people who notice the glassware, the music, the spacing of the tables. It’s less about being seen and more about being present. That subtle confidence is hard to fake—and even harder to beat.
LOJ’s wins on popularity. Izzy’s wins on elevation.
Much like travel, design, or personal style, the choice comes down to what you value. Familiar versus refined. For me, it’s always about the details—the ones you feel more than see. The way a room holds you. The way service flows. The way everything comes together without asking for attention.
That’s why, in this battle of the hottest revamped old-school SF restaurants, Izzy’s takes it.
Not because it’s trendier.
Not because it’s trying harder.
But because it knows exactly who it is—and delivers it beautifully.
New York steak with classic sides - Izzy’s Own Potatoes and Creamed Spinach
Helping Your Stylist Thrive!
As the year comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on everything we’ve created together at DAVID JAMES — the growth, the artistry, and the incredible community that supports our salons.
One of the most meaningful ways you can support our stylists and our team is by sharing your experience. While we truly appreciate feedback left through our booking system, Google Reviews have the greatest impact on helping our stylists stay busy, grow their careers, and continue doing what they love.
If you’ve had a great experience, we’d be so grateful if you’d take a moment to leave a Google Review. It only takes a minute, but it truly makes a difference — and feels like a holiday gift to our entire team.
Easily leave a Google Review here!
Your kind words help future guests find us, support our stylists directly, and allow us to continue delivering the experience you expect from DAVID JAMES.
Thank you for trusting us, supporting our team, and being part of our community. We’re so grateful for you.
— The DAVID JAMES Team
Now Listening: ‘Head First’ by Snazzy
I can’t say I know much about the artist Snazzy, except this is one of those songs that sets a mood perfect for these early dark and chilled nights. I peaked through some other songs of his and for the small amount out, recognized a few. Not a lot is known personally about Snazzy, but I hope this becomes a repeat on your favorite mix.
Don’t forget we also have our beloved playlist:
Click Here —> DAVID JAMES. (Play on Shuffle)
The Sleeper Edition: Exploring Antarctica, Tasting Marin’s Best, WIN our latest drop: The Hair Wax Stick.
Unfiltered rawness. Shot candidly while I was on a Zodiac off the Peninsula of King George Island.
BUCKET LIST: Antarctica, Via Silverseas Silver Endeavor
As we get ready to fall into winter, I find myself reflecting on my trip last year to Antarctica, which has stayed with me deeply. If you’ve followed any of these newsletters, you can tell I’m kind of a warm-weather, Mediterranean or tropical lover. Antarctica was the furthest thing possible from those. So, when my friend asked me two years ago if I wanted to go freeze my ass off at the southernmost point of the planet, I said, "Hell yeah." I love an adventure.
We found ourselves flying deep at the bottom of the globe and landing on the dark black tarmac of King George Island, in a very specialized airplane fittingly painted as a penguin. Moments later, fitted out head to toe in specialized gear that was mostly provided for us, we were swept into vans, driven to a beach, hopped on Zodiac’s and whisked aboard the most luxurious ship I’ve ever been on. The Silver Endeavor, by ultra-luxury expedition outfitters Silverseas, was unreal. From the design of the icebreaker-grade ship, fitted with bedrooms and restrooms nicer than most 5-star luxury hotels - this was not what I’d expected.
Once aboard, I settled in quickly to 24 hours of daylight, incredible food, people, but most importantly—the views that you’re immersed in. I have traveled a lot and seen many things. This was different. It was a world that’s been unspoiled for millions of years. Some of the steps I took were surely the first that some grounds had ever felt. The terrain was absolutely perfect. There wasn’t a buzz of sound when idle. You could see farther than you’ve ever seen in your entire life. The scale is something I still haven’t grasped with my mind. My favorite time was 4 a.m., when everyone was sleeping and it was still light out, and I’d just sit at the top and stare and stare for miles, thinking about how the world probably would be better without us—but I sure did appreciate being there. I didn’t realize it would have this effect on me, but whether you have or have not considered it, I would say this is truly the only bucket list thing I’ve done, and I pretty much did it by accident. I’ll answer any emails to give you more information if interested, so long as you promise me you’ll take the true polar ice plunge after you book your trip!
Eat: Insalatas, San Anselmo, Ca
Insalata’s in Marin County is an institution that somehow still feels like a hidden gem even after more than 25 years at the top of its game. Well-known by locals, yet inexplicably underappreciated on a broader scale, it remains a beacon of quality and warmth amid Marin’s restaurant scene. The atmosphere is always welcoming, centered around the kindness of staff led by longtime manager Todd Hauserman and the ever-attentive Ben Colton behind the bar—two faces who make every visit feel personal and memorable. In the kitchen, head chef Taylor has seamlessly taken over from founder Heidi Krahling, elevating the menu while honoring the Mediterranean roots that built Insalata’s reputation.
The mezze platter is always the table starter—a vibrant parade of Mediterranean flavors, generous and perfect for sharing. For mains, the chicken dish stands out as surprisingly transcendent and perhaps the best anywhere, while the Bavette steak is rich and ideal for splitting, especially when paired with whatever seasonal pasta the kitchen dreams up. There’s also a secret off-menu favorite: the Tidefall, a masterful cocktail crafted with chili-infused local vodka, landing in that sweet spot between spicy and refreshing.
Whether sitting solo or with a friend at the lively bar, or tucked into a booth with a group, Insalata’s never disappoints on service or ambiance. Perhaps the biggest surprise—especially for Bay Area diners—is the pricing, which remains far below what one would expect for this caliber of hospitality and cuisine. In a region brimming with restaurant options, Insalata’s stands apart as both an unsung culinary classic and a personal go-to for unforgettable meals.
Pro Tip: Skip the cooking and dishes for Thanksgiving at Insalata’s!
Ben Colton making the infamous off-menu Tidefall, a sweet and spicy vodka- infused drink of perfection.
Now Listening: Scribbled Paper by Little Dragon
Scribbled Paper is one of my favorite songs, period. It’s a song to listen to by yourself in a moody nighttime setting when the lighting is dim or ambient. Nobody is around but yourself and your thoughts. It has everything you could want for this type of song. Little Dragon as a group can blend genre’s so well, and this shows just how deep the range can be from some of the other high energy, heavy hitting tracks. Go listen and enjoy.
Stylist Spotlight: Stassi, San Francisco + Marin
Stassi is the epitome of swag. She’s a chameleon with her own style, and she is always down to make a chameleon of you. She has an incredible artistic to find what suits you best, while having the charisma, humor, and wit to leave you constantly entertained. Book an appointment with her in either San Francisco or Marin and see how she can elevate your look.
Introducing the DAVID JAMES. Hair Wax Stick
The DAVID JAMES. Hair Wax Stick offers a strong, non-greasy hold for all hair types, perfect for sleek, long-haired styles like buns or ponytails, and textured, spiky short-haired looks. Apply to dry or damp hair to tame flyaways or define spikes with a glossy, residue-free finish using its mess-free stick. Infused with castor oil and beeswax.
The package design is an ode to David’s longtime loyal clients who’ve helped make the salons possible over the past 25 years in the industry. See if you can spot your name amongst it!
Get yours today and see what you can create with this stylist fav!
Create lift and smoother finishes for an editorial look.
Create perfect polished ponytails.
Thank you for reading TLG.
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A Sicilian Summer (What and What Not to See), A Sardinian Gem, and San Francisco’s Hottest New Bar.
Experience: Bar Morgana, Taormina, Sicily
Recently, during my trip to Sicily, I found myself in Taormina, drawn here by the buzz around The White Lotus. While the town itself is probably worth just a day or two to explore the well-known sites, I quickly discovered it was crowded beyond belief. Despite that, I enjoyed some fantastic food and had a great time.
But what truly left an impression on me was Bar Morgana — possibly the most beautiful bar I’ve ever encountered. No matter where it might be in the world, I would still say it stands unmatched. The décor is nothing short of spectacular, with every detail meticulously crafted, right down to the bartenders’ and staff’s outfits.
After my amazement, I learned that this bar closes every January through March for over 20 years, undergoing a complete redesign from floor to ceiling each time. An employee showed me photos from past iterations, and it’s clear that Bar Morgana has mastered the art of making a space an experience- over and over again. The staff can occasionally come off a bit full of themselves—maybe an island thing—but when the place looks that incredible, it’s hard to blame them.
If you find yourself in Taormina, don’t miss a visit to Bar Morgana. It’s not just a bar; it’s an experience.
Cefalú Beach
Eat Here: La Brace, Cefalu, Sicily
Kick off your Sicilian adventure by strolling through the island’s enchanting, winding streets of Cefalú, where the locals’ warmth and laid-back vibe instantly make you feel like part of the community. Nestled along a stunning gulf with golden beaches and dramatic cliffs, the island’s charm is undeniable.
It was this magical setting that captured the hearts of Dietmar Beckers, a Dutchman, and Thea de Haan, of Dutch-Indonesian descent, in 1976. Smitten by the area’s allure, they settled here and opened La Brace, a warm, inviting restaurant just a short walk from the town’s historic center.
Food lovers will not be disappointed. This highly acclaimed spot, often hailed as Michelin-worthy in reviews, delivers creative and refined dishes that fuse Sicilian classics with clever innovations—think starters like bruschette topped with marinated anchovies, pine nuts, and tomatoes or gratinated mushrooms; primi such as rigatoni al rustico with their signature ragù (a hearty, slow-simmered meat sauce bursting with flavor); mains including Sicilian stuffed meat rolls, turkey filet in cherry sauce, or swordfish kabobs with lemon-mustard glaze; and homemade desserts like tiramisu or panna cotta. It’s all paired with a thoughtfully curated wine list offering quality bottles at fair prices, while the courteous, attentive service makes you feel right at home for a truly memorable meal.
Pro tip: Make reservations at least a couple nights ahead, or you may be begging for a 10:15pm spot if you’re lucky.
Stay Here: Su Gologone, Sardinia, Italy
When you think of Sardinia, you envision the turquoise waters surrounding this large, majestic, and mysterious island. Stories about bandits in the neighboring towns have long been a mix of humor and seriousness. One summer, following in Anthony Bourdain’s footsteps, I visited all the spots he believed made Sardinia special.
Upon booking my stay at this beautiful hotel, I realized I was heading inland, deep into the mountains. Although I was a bit apprehensive during the first 20 minutes on my Vespa, carrying nothing but a duffel bag, I discovered an incomparable gem that checked every box. Watching traditional bread being made by nuns and witnessing spit-roasted pigs offered a glimpse into the generations-old traditions they uphold. The experience of eating and drinking amazing meats, cheeses, and wine was unforgettable—I was hooked.
While Costa Smeralda receives most of the buzz—and is worth exploring by boat—don’t miss your time on land at Su Gologone. There are plenty of nearby beaches to explore, yet you can also unwind with beautiful views in a setting where old-world charm meets an artistic hotel vibe.
Learn more about Su Gologone here.
Drink Here: Bar Darling, San Francisco, Ca
There’s a new spot causing well-deserved lines in the Marina District of San Francisco — and this one’s more than just a pretty face. Bar Darling, brought to life by Jamal Blake-Williams and Nate Valentine, folds the wild, rugged mood of Northern California right into its bones. Step inside and those earthy finishes, hand-painted tree murals, and lush patio blooming with a legit native manzanita make you feel instantly at home—even if your “home” is usually a windswept hike or a cozy cabin up the coast.
“Darling” isn’t just part of the name—it’s a feeling, a tribute to family history, warmth, and a little nostalgia. Cocktails on the menu nod to a nickname or term of endearment of the owners family. Favorites like the Kiki & Coco (rum, coconut, sunflower, citrus) are garden-bright and supremely sippable, matched by plates meant to bring people together: think brie pastry bites, albacore on crispy rice, and spinach phyllo tarts, all designed for easy sharing (forks optional, friends essential).
Pro tip: Visit early to grab a spot at the striking oak bar—crafted to echo the founders’ backyard roots—or sneak out back for a golden hour cocktail among the local greenery. Whether a quick drink or slow evening, Bar Darling welcomes all with warmth and style.
Personal history: Back in kindergarten, growing up out in West Marin, David was welcomed by Jamal (owner of Bar Darling, Peacekeeper, Harper and Rye, and other hotspots) , then a 5th grader, who became his ‘big brother’ and helped him settle into those first days at a new school. Years later, Jamal’s signature hospitality showed up again—acclimating David past the giant line at Bar Darling’s opening to reveal the stunning new space. Some things don’t change: Jamal’s warmth and generosity are as present now as ever, making him a standout in San Francisco’s drinks and food scene.
Stylist Spotlight: Gaelan Neil
Well, I’m sure I could find some typical head shot or other photo of this month’s stylist spotlight on Gaelan Neil, but this is still my personal favorite . I shot this over 10 years ago late on Halloween in the city, as we were on our way home from celebrating another of our stylists’ birthday (my brother Daniel who also happens to be best buds with Gaelan). This photo somes up Gaelan well - he’s an absolute character, who’s funny even when he’s not trying to be. When it comes to hair, he is all business. Inspired by modern sassoon bobs, and avante garde styling, he’s precise, thoughtful, and will tell you what he’s doing, and why to help educate you more about your hair. Book now and see what Gaelan can do for your hair.
Now Listening: Zimmer90 - feel like we used to, Interior.
‘Feel Like We Used To’ is a standout track from Zimmer90’s debut album Interiors, showcasing the duo’s smooth blend of melody and mood. Based in Stuttgart, Josch and Finn have a clear sense of style that matches their music — understated, modern, and effortlessly cool. Their songs carry an easy warmth that feels just right for fall, when the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp. Interiors is full of tracks made for this season, with sounds that feel both fresh and familiar.