Jared Brainerd Fashion, Design, Coffee

What are you up to these days? Trying to do it all! I'm finishing up at the Academy of Art University with a degree in New Media and working a few days a week at ACRE/SF makin' coffee and sellin' clothes. I'm also running a fashion blog, and constantly working on my portfolio. 

Where would you have your last meal on earth? At La Taqueria at 24th and Mission. I'd have the spicy carne asada burrito with everything on it, and a Modelo. Hopefully it'd be a sunny afternoon.

Who's your favorite quintessential local character? Norbert Yancy. He plays blues guitar and kids around in front of Ghiradelli Square. The man is hilarious! He knows like 15 languages (or at least claims to) and has pictures of himself with presidents, politicians, and celebrities. 

What's your favorite under-the-radar restaurant? There's a little dive on Sutter and Leavenworth called Golden Coffee. They only seat about 10 people at a time, and make breakfast right in front of you. Delicious and fantastic hangover food. 

What's your favorite San Francisco institution? SFMOMA. As a designer, I can usually find a lot of inspiration there. If I'm ever blocked for whatever reason I can just head over, take a look at their amazing collection of art, and get a Blue Bottle on the roof. It usually does the trick.

What local merchant have you been meaning to check out? Brooklyn Circus. I met the owners a few weeks ago, and haven't had a chance to head over there yet. Seems like a pretty rad place with a good collection of clothes. 

What would you change about San Francisco? Geographical placement. A city full of hills and people between two enormous faults is just asking for trouble.