Turkey Legs to Go: Emerald Bowl, Miami (FL) vs. California

Turkey Legs to Go is FanHouse's complete travel guide for all of the 2008-2009 college bowl games. Here, we cover the Emerald Bowl (San Francisco, California), which pits Miami against California.

Overview/Matchup: While the Emerald Bowl isn't an ACC Championship, much less a BCS berth, give Randy Shannon credit -- this Miami team looked completely and utterly doomed heading into October following devastating losses to North Carolina and Florida State. Sure, ending the season with back to back L's against Georgia Tech and NC State wasted the good run, but he certainly saved his reputation. The news gets worse for him though, as the 'Canes were horrible against the run during their last two games, and guess what Cal running back Jahvid Best ran for over the final two weeks of the season? Yeah, just a casual 512 yards. Ouch, babe.

Hotels: The Ritz-Carlton at Nob Hill is one of the finest hotels in the United States. Our reviewers, as well as our CEO, have always been impressed with the property. The Hilton San Francisco is also a fine establishment for those in the midrange category. The hotel is positively enormous, designed primarily for conferences and large groups. Although its size may be a detractor, it does have its advantages. There are a number of stores and restaurants in, or attached to the property. For bargain rates and great proximity to the stadium try the Civic Center Inn.

Restaurants: If you are looking for a high-end restaurant, look no further than Boulevard. This award-winning restaurant specializes in local delicacies like wood-oven-roasted rack of California lamb and Sonoma duck breast. For a midrange restaurant try the pizzeria A16. Named for the autostrada that runs through southern Italy, A16 serves up traditional, Neapolitan-style pizza certified authentic by the Italian government. Tommy's Mexican Restaurant is a local favorite and features the largest selection of 100% blue agave tequila outside of Mexico. Julio Bermejo, the owner's son and purveyor of all things tequila, received the honorary title Guru of Tequila from The Wall Street Journal.

Nightlife:
For a classy night on the town visit Bourbon & Branch. This recreation speak easy is so popular you have to reserve a table in advance and speak the secret password at the door. Those who haven't planned ahead can enjoy a drink in the more casual room by using the password "books." Popular with the thirty something crowd, Rye offers plenty of outdoor seating for smokers, pool tables and a wide-variety of specialty cocktails.

Turkey Legs to Go: Emerald Bowl, Miami (FL) vs. California originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 10:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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