I will be in San Francisco for three days in late june. Any recs for the best area, with great shopping, cafes ect?

Answered by jasper , San Francisco, United States

hey Marie, There are lots of great shopping are as in San Francisco. Obviously the biggie and most obvious is Downtown Union Square - all the big stores / brands - Macy's, Bloomingdales, Levis Nieman Marcus etc ... but if you want a more local experience there's plenty of places to go. The Mission is a great place to head for - historically the main hub of the latin cultures - specifically Valencia Street, long the main drag for SF's art / hipster culture - small Boutiques, vintage stores, great restaurants, notable coffee shops are Four Barrel, or Ritual coffee. Crossing Valencia Street is 24th street another great street for wandering. head up the hill for Noe Valley, but my favourite is to head deeper into the Mission - a great mix of Mexican culture and hipster hype.

Across town (North End of Town) head towards Union Street, and Chestnut street in The Marina - Much more upscale and home to the more 'business' types (don't want to use the term yuppie ... but). Again great Boutique stores and restaurants.

You might also want to check out Hayes Valley. Fillmore st between Geary and Broadway. Neighboring the Fillmore is Japan town. Clement street in the Richmond district more of a mini China town with lots of Authentic Asian restaurants. The Castro for the heart of SF more flamboyant community. All great Neighborhoods with lots of shopping and SF lifestyle.

Finally there's all the old SF standbys - a little more touristy - but there's some great gems to be had. - North Beach historically the Italian district (check out Tosca's, 15 Romolo or Comstock Tavern - these are bars so a little off topic). Fisherman's Wharf - very touristy - but if it's crab season the local caught Dungeoness crab is awesome.

Finally finally - if your trip falls on a Saturday there's a great Farmers market at the Ferry Building - lots of local produce and food vendors - great place to go and get breakfast before starting your days adventures.