One of the things I love most while exploring a new neighborhood is coming across something unexpected. On my first outing traipsing around Portrero Hill, I discovered a lovely community garden. San Francisco is so packed in with housing, one doesn’t really think a rather sizeable community garden would be able to fit into the mix. I was so tickled to find this spot, because it reminded me of my grandpa who had a plot at a community garden in Cupertino. He loved to get his hands in the soil and grow veggies. I vaguely remember loving to help him do the watering. I opened the latched gate and entered the charming garden space, each small plot housing their own focused cultivations. Some plots specialized in flowers, while some were growing yummy squashes and watermelon.

Over the years, this spot has brought me such warm memories. Someone special to me used to take me there on afternoon walks. It was a romantic stroll up the hill and offers amazing views of several neighborhoods. This garden is such a perfect addition to the neighborhood. I’d like to think that fellow gardeners meet up and have hang-out sessions at the picnic table inside.