Lindsey’s San Francisco City Guide: Shopping, Dining & More
Our California stylist, Lindsey, put together a city guide to help you explore the best of San Francisco. Whether you’re shopping for vintage finds, dining at unique restaurants, or exploring local activities, this guide will help you discover the hidden gems of this vibrant city!
SHOPPING
Vacation SF in North Beach is a must-visit vintage shop with a colorful, fun atmosphere and hand-painted floors. Here, you can find unique designer pieces and rare band tees. Other great spots for vintage clothing are Wasteland and Held Over in Haight-Ashbury, known for their well-curated selection of secondhand designer and vintage items. If you're a book lover, don't miss City Lights Bookstore in North Beach, an iconic independent bookstore that's perfect for browsing.
For plant enthusiasts, Flora Grubb Gardens in Portola offers a visually appealing indoor and outdoor nursery, ideal for finding inspiration for your next project. Music lovers should head to Amoeba Records in Haight Ashbury, a legendary store with an extensive collection of records. If you're looking for a variety of goods from local artisans, General Store in Outer Sunset is the place to go.
DINING
Molinari Delicatessen in North Beach is a must-visit for sandwich lovers. This old-school Italian deli, run by a friendly Italian family, has amazing artisanal meats, cheeses, and breads. It's the perfect spot to grab a tasty, authentic sandwich. If you're into brunch, Zazie in Cole Valley is my top pick. The lines can get long, but the delicious breakfast and brunch dishes are totally worth the wait. Get there early to snag a table and enjoy some of the best brunch in the city. For fresh seafood near the beach, head to Hook Fish Co in the Outer Sunset. Their ceviche is a standout, and the cozy parklet setting makes it a great place to relax after a day by the ocean.
Looking for a unique dining experience? Check out Foreign Cinema in the Mission District. They offer outdoor seating with movie screenings, so you can enjoy great food and entertainment all in one place. And finally, for a special night out, House of Prime Rib in Nob Hill is the spot. This old-school restaurant is known for its delicious prime rib and excellent martinis, making it perfect for celebrations and special dinners.
BARS & COFFEE
Vesuvio Cafe in North Beach is a historic bar with a unique, eclectic vibe. It's a great place to grab a drink and soak in the ambiance of this iconic spot. Anina in Hayes Valley is another popular bar, known for its great cocktails and lively scene. It's a go-to spot for a fun night out in this trendy neighborhood. In the Mission District, Gemini Bottle Co is a small shop with a fantastic selection of small-grower natural wines and craft beers. They also offer weekly tastings and have a wine club, making it a great place for wine enthusiasts.
When it comes to coffee, Postscript in Jackson Square is a specialty market and cafe with a curated selection. It's a great place to grab a quality coffee and maybe pick up some unique items. Bi-Rite Market in the Mission District is a small, curated market known for its beautiful selection of local, organic, and sustainable items. They also have a fantastic ice cream shop across the street, perfect for a sweet treat after shopping.
ACTIVITIES
De Young Museum in Golden Gate Park is a must-visit for art lovers. With diverse art collections and stunning architecture, it offers a unique cultural experience. At the Ferry Building on the Embarcadero, you can enjoy the Saturday farmer's market and fresh local produce. Don't miss out on the Hog Island Oyster Co. or take a ferry to Marin or Angel Island for a day trip. For a relaxing day outdoors, head to Blue Heron Boathouse in Golden Gate Park. Rent a rowboat and enjoy the peaceful lake with friends or family.
Phoenix Hotel in the Tenderloin is a funky hotel with a heated pool (day passes available) and a restaurant called Chambers. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the ambiance. Balboa Theater in the Richmond District is a classic theater that shows a variety of films, from new releases to old favorites. It's a great spot for a fun movie night!
MARIN
Just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, Marin County offers a delightful escape with plenty of things to do. Hero Shop in Larkspur is a fashion gem founded by former Vogue editor Emily Holt. Located in the Marin Country Mart, it features a fabulous selection of top fashion brands. Sol Food is a local favorite with several locations in Marin, renowned for its delicious sandwiches that are perfect for a quick and tasty meal. Marin Country Mart in Larkspur is a fantastic shopping destination. With a mix of boutique shops and local businesses, it's the perfect place to find unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're a wine lover, be sure to visit Voyage Wines in San Anselmo. It's received high praise for its selection of wines.
SILICON VALLEY
Silicon Valley also has lots of fun places to explore! Start your day at Santana Row with some shopping at Mejuri, Le Labo, and Herman Miller. Don’t miss the yoga sessions with Lululemon on Saturdays and the lively Farmer’s Market every Wednesday. Head over to Westfield Valley Fair Mall in Santa Clara to check out the new luxury wing featuring Celine, Balenciaga, Fendi, Cartier, and more — make sure to grab a bite at Eataly while you’re there! Wrap up your day with a walk through the charming streets of Palo Alto, filled with cute shops and delicious places to eat.
San Francisco is a city with a little something for everyone! You can wander through colorful neighborhoods, indulge in amazing food, and soak up the sights and sounds of this vibrant place. Whether you're exploring a vintage shop on Haight Street, having a delicious brunch in Cole Valley, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze in the Outer Sunset, San Francisco is full charm!
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