BY FRAN ENDICOTT MILLER
 
Let’s face it; outdoor dining is here to stay for the foreseeable future, and will likely continue well into fall and even through winter should the weather cooperate. Grab your picnic blanket, and a wrap to ward-off the chill of San Francisco fog, and head into the city for al fresco fun with take-out from these popular restaurants, each located near a perfect picnic venue, and each also conveniently located near a BART station:
 
The picnic spot: Dolores Park

Dolores Park (pictured above) features spacious, sunny slopes and incredible city skyline views. Just around the corner is Curio, open for brunch with new menus designed by Chef Jason Raffin, formerly of Comstock Saloon and Finn Town. Favorites include the Rainbow Chia Seed Pudding, a Guava and Cream Cheese Toaster Strudel, and the Fried Chicken & Waffle Bites, perfect for sharing. Heartier appetites can opt for the Hangover Curio with house-made bacon sausage, eggs and home fries or waffles with braised bananas. Cocktails are available to go, including the very popular Frosé and a Strawberry Margarita Slushy, as well as traditional brunch favorites like a Bloody Mary or Michelada. (Close to the Mission BART station)

The picnic spot: Yerba Buena Gardens

Head to the cultural heart of the city and beautiful Yerba Buena Gardens where you’ll find landscaped lawns, colorful gardens, serene waterfalls, and delicious boxed meals at Palette. Palette’s Picnic Box includes a focaccia BLTA (bacon, lettuce, tomato and avocado sandwich), marinated olives, spiced mixed nuts, and seasonal flavored macarons. Or opt for the Meat & Cheese Box featuring duck rillette, local cheese, beet tartare, crostini, and house-made preserves. Bonus: Discover one-of-a-kind houseware pieces to liven up your home at Palette’s Sidewalk Sale, 12 – 6pm Friday and Saturdays in August. Find beautiful, artisan-made ceramics, glassware, paintings, prints, jewelry and more at up to 90% off retail. (Close to the Powell BART station)

The picnic spot: Duboce Park
 
The Duboce Triangle area is located between the neighborhoods of the Castro/Eureka Valley, the Mission District, and the Lower Haight. Duboce Park is a grassy, sunlit, urban green space that’s perfect for a picnic. Picnickers can fill their basket with a visit to Canela, a Spanish bistro and bar located on Market Street, about an eight-minute walk from the park. Order online and pick-up on your way. Select cheeses, baguettes, ready-to-eat tapas, chips, nuts, wine by the bottle, or ready-to-sip rosé sangria in a pouch. You can even add the picnic basket itself; theirs comes with whimsical plates and napkins, and playing cards. (Close to the Church St. BART station)