foodie's Reviews

Although the collections at this excellent museum have always top-notch, the edifice itself always felt rather bland and confining. That’s no longer the case; the Asian Art Museum moved to the center of town and received a stunning makeover, so these days when I’m in San Francisco, I always try to pop in, both for the superb exhibits – don’t miss the oldest known image of a Chinese Buddha, the star piece of the museum – and for the gorgeous architecture. Take a moment to drink in the exterior of the lovely Beaux Arts building; on sunny days, I enjoy perusing the architectural details while relaxing on a nearby bench and then heading inside, where the interior is flooded with natural light from the ample windows throughout. On the way out, I always stop by the well-stocked gift shop to pick up unique souvenirs for my friends back in Portland.

Reviewed on: September 18, 2005