Ever since the Jewish Contemporary Museum opened across the street, converting what was once a desolate plot of land into a beautiful open space, Yerba Buena Gardens has become one of my favorite places to relax in the city. With the MLK Jr. memorial and the occasional concert series, the green refuge serves as a vibrant and revitalizing break in an otherwise hectic and concrete work area. The restaurants above (Samovar and B Restaurant) are both remarkable and worth a trip as well.