courtesy of United Irish Societies of San Francisco

Yup, it’s that time of year again, where normal people don leprechaun outfits, drink ridiculous amounts of green beer and claim to be at least 1/18th Irish. If you’re so inclined, feel free to cram yourself into a local pub where, come midnight, some jerk will start belting out “Danny Boy.” But should you be looking for a slightly more, uh, refined way to celebrate the Emerald Isle, check out the following.

Kick off the weekend at the 156th annual St. Patrick’s Day parade, held this Saturday, March 15, starting at 11:30 a.m. in Union Square. After the parade’s conclusion, hope on the cable car to North Beach and swing into the Buena Vista Cafe on Hyde for their signature Irish coffee (they serve almost 2,000 a day, and have been making the drink since 1952).


courtesy of United Irish Societies of San Francisco

Sunday morning, head out to John Campbell’s Irish bakery in the Richmond (5625 Geary Blvd., 415-387-1536), and stock up on soda bread, pasties, Guinness bread and scones. That night, once the crowds have subsided, head to Elixir in the Mission to sample their top-notch selection of Irish whiskies.

Then, Monday night, celebrate Hayes Street Grill’s 29th Anniversary with an Irish-style feast featuring Niman Ranch corned beef with cabbage and horseradish cream and a spring rhubarb trifle.

Slainté!