Fall is officially here, and with that comes the tell-tale aroma of pumpkin spice. Before you get bombarded with pumpkin-flavored everything, here are the top five items we're most looking forward to this season.
Autumn Spice Pedicure at Nob Hill Spa
Easily one of the best pedicures I've ever gotten, Nob Hill knows how to treat a lady (or a man who cares about his feet). The warm scent of cinnamon, clove, ginger, and cardamom exude from the water where your feet soak before they are scrubbed with a pumpkin seed oil exfoliant and wrapped in a red clay and ginger mask for a silky smooth finish. Bonus: Sip on complimentary pumpkin spice tea while you relax. $80, 50 minutes, 1075 California Street
Spiced Pumpkin Ice Cream Sandwiches at Waterbar
While it's technically fall, you'd never know it in this weather. Cool down with one of pastry chef Angela Salvatore’s spiced pumpkin ice cream sandwiches served between ginger molasses cookies. In the mood for something warmer? She's also got a pumpkin flan served with horchata chantilly, candied chile pepitas, and mini churros on the menu. 399 The Embarcadero
Pumpkin Spice Latte at Lava Java
While Starbucks may have a line down the block for its pumpkin spice latte (released early this year), we'd much rather sit down to a warm cup at Lava Java in Cole Valley. A little sugar and a whole lot of spice make the latte rich and satisfying — perfect for autumn. 852 Stanyan
(Free) Pumpkin Spice Waffles at b.street Waffles
The addition of a hundred-percent pumpkin puree with a dash of ground nutmeg make this Belgian-style waffle the perfect breakfast, delivered straight to your door. Catch them Wednesday, October 1, when they'll be handing out free samples at the Capital One 360 Café in the Financial District from 9-11am.
Pumpkin Cheesecake at Bluestem Brasserie
Pumpkin cheesecake layered with genoise and apple butter, topped with bruleed chiboust creme, and served with cranberry coulis and pumpkin seed tuile is the crowning jewel of Bluestem Brasserie's inaugural autumn dessert menu with newly appointed Executive Pastry Chef Curtis McDonald. 1 Yerba Buena Lane