Category: Shopping

There aren’t too many cities in the world lucky enough to boast a John Fluevog store, and I often tease my partner by telling her that it was that, and not her living here, that brought me to San Francisco in the first place. Sometimes, I have to remind her that it’s a joke, though – I love the place that much, and absolutely cannot visit the Haight without popping in to say hi. More often than not, I end up trying on a few pairs of shoes, but really, it’s not an addiction. I can stop any time I want to. But, why would I?

For starters, it’s not JUST the shoes, though they’re definitely well made, original, and, well, super hot. But it’s truly the people in this particular shop that make each visit a lot of fun and worth going out of my way. I’ve never been into a Fluevog store and been treated more kindly and more like a friend than I did the first time I entered this Haight Street shoe haven. I’d been in the city for less than a week; I was job shopping, and figured why not combine business and pleasure? I popped into Fluevog and met Denny and Monica, who to this day greet me by name, know what I do for work, ask about my partner, AND remember my shoe size. I don’t get pressured into shoes that don’t feel perfect, and I get honest feedback about how a style works for me. Does it get any better than that?

If you’re not familiar with Fluevog shoes, you really need to take a peek at the website and see what you’ve been missing. John Fluevog’s style is impossible to miss, and gets you noticed from miles away. From classic to funky, and always in colors that complement and get compliments, you absolutely cannot go wrong with a pair of these beauties. You should also bear in mind that most styles are limited edition, be it the heel, the upper, the color, or any combination, so if you fall in love, don’t let them get away, because often times, once they’re gone, they’re gone for good.

I’m going swing dancing tomorrow night, and you know, there’s a pair of Fluevogs on clearance in my size that I’ve been eyeing for a bit now and I think they’d be perfect for this occasion… Time to take my own advice and snag them before they’re out the door!

Originated in 1898, the Ferry Building was a hotspot to thousands of travelers, serving as “the transportation focal point for anyone arriving by train from the East,” according to the building’s official website. In fact, until the 1930s, ferries were the only way that travelers and commuters could enter the city from the Peninsula. Surviving both the 1906 and 1989 earthquakes (and a bad renovation in 1950s), the Ferry Building stands today as one of the city’s most unique and popular landmarks. Though the Bay Bridge, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the use of cars rendered the need for ferries as main transportation obsolete, the building continues to draw thousands of people.

The building currently houses the popular Ferry Plaza Farmer’s Market, an old-fashioned open market with several stalls that serve some of the best organic and artisan foods in the state. Open daily, the marketplace draws both visitors and locals alike, and is a great place to spend a few hours (or the day, if possible) with children. Kids are automatically drawn to the bustle and details that the plethora of boutiques provide. Families with children will enjoy stopping for lunch at places such as Taylor’s Refresher (located at shop #6), where appetites of all ages and sizes can be satisfied with dishes such as fish and chips and ahi burgers. Enjoy for an afternoon gelato refreshment at Ciao Bella (shop #8). Parents can even stop off for their own more refined treat, if desired, at Imperial Tea Courts—and expect at least a few moments of sipping in peace as the kids crowd-watch.

San Francisco City Guides even offers regular walking tours of the building. The tours, starting at noon on Tuesdays and weekends, are free, and even include samples of fresh produce, plants, and herbs from local growers.

Located along the Embarcadero at Market Street, the marketplace can be accessed by MUNI, BART, and, well, ferry boat. The historic trolley cars (the F Market line) run directly to and from the very front of the Ferry Building. Public transportation allows for a more colorful and historic experience, and gives kids (and parents) a chance to rest and snack on their purchased fresh market food on the ride back.

For book lovers and their little ones, there’s San Francisco’s eclectic independent bookstore Dog Eared Books. A sibling to Phoenix Books and Red Hill Books, Dog Eared is the largest and most eclectic bookstore around. Situated in the city’s Mission district, the store is near several neighborhood amenities such as cleaners, coffee houses, and independent shops. But none of that matters. Once you get inside Dog Eared, you’ll have a hard time wanting to ever leave.

A new and used bookstore, Dog Eared Books carries 85 percent used selections while also offering the hottest and most popular reads. This establishment is a far cry from a dusty used bookstore. Services include renting audiobooks for 50 cents a day (or $2.50 per week), carrying both cassette and CD format. They buy and sell audiobooks. They sell “remainder” books, new books that are discounted because they are overstock or are slightly damaged. Sell them your books any time during business hours, and receive cash or store credit, or a combo of each. Valuing literary giants as well as local talent, Dog Eared Books will even carry a book you yourself have written (if deemed worthy, of course).

Dog Eared Books carries a very casual, funky atmosphere that only independent bookstores can pull off, and is a great hangout for readers and their mini-readers. As a parent, you know: bookstores, with their quieter atmosphere, can either be heaven or hell with children, depending on their unpredictable-and-volatile-as-weather-like moods. This bookstore is a hit. The store is large and open, with tall windows shedding plenty of light over nicely stacked books to meander through (even with a skinny stroller). The creaking wooden floors, natural-material shelves, and stacks and stacks of books render this bookstore timeless. Tucked away in various corners of Dog Eared are comfortable chairs—important for resting tired little feet, convenient for snuggling up to a picture book.

The staff is notoriously knowledgeable and eager. Readers can sit for as long as you desire—hours, some customers have claimed to sit for—without feeling rushed, a vital consideration when you’re out browsing with children. Customers have even been seen shuffling in for a new good read in their pajamas. Not to say that the place lacks a certain literary panache and class (true to its old-school style, the store even posts a sign out front asking customers to please finish their phone conversations before entering and browsing).

If you’re looking for a more structured experience for your little literati (ages five and under), visit the store at 10:30 am for free storytime. Parents can meanwhile relax and sneak in a few pages on their own—not to mention that, in the age of book superstores and designer coffee, it feels great to support local businesses.

For the more global parent who wants to introduce their children not only to wonderful learning toys, but to various cultures around the world, visit Ambassador Toys on San Francisco’s Embarcadero Street or West Portal Avenue. Founded in 1997, this unparalleled toy store promotes an “understanding and respect for cultures around the world through the beauty and creativity of toys, books and music,” according to their website

This isn’t any old toy store. Not only has it been dubbed every year since 2003 by readers of “Bay Area Parents” as the best toys store, the Guardian’s 25th anniversary edition named it the Best Toy Store You Wish Had Been Around When You Were a Kid. It has also been nominated for a TOTY award (the toy industry’s equivalent to an Academy Award) by the Toy Industry of America.

No shoot-em-up dummy video games in this place. Ambassador Toys offers an enormous array of quality toys from several categories, such as Dress-up, Arts and Crafts, Baby and Toddler, Farms and Stables, Foreign Language, Puppets, Plush Animals, Baby Dolls, Tea Sets, Bikes, and Trains. The list goes—well, you know: on and on and on. The selection includes tin and quality wood toys, reassuring construction and materials when so many plastic toys have been recalled lately.

Aside from the amazing selection, parents as well as children will enjoy shopping at Ambassador Toys because of the pleasant atmosphere, the complimentary gift wrapping, and personalized shopping assistance. No standing around cluelessly and frustratedly scratching your head. The store is also glad to refund your money within 30 days if you aren’t happy with your purchase (or store credit without a receipt), a policy not always followed since many stores such as this will only issue store credit no matter what.

Stop off any day of the week with your little one. You can’t go wrong here. Anything you choose will surely help broaden your child’s horizons. Take home a Scarlet Macaw hand puppet, a Space Station Set, or a wooden dollhouse Ethnic Family (yes it is officially called that). It’s as much of a treat for you as it is for your child, to watch your child grow and learn. Help them understand the larger world out there and, hey, have some fun while you’re at it.

Parents know the conundrum: You want your sweet baby to look her best, but not in a ninety dollar dress that she’ll wear twice and outgrow in three months. Contemplate Chloe’s Closet, a consignment store located in the trendy and sophisticated Bernal Heights neighborhood of San Francisco. The colorful walls, checkered floors, and quaint strings of white lights make the place feel more like a hip boutique than a consignment shop. Voted Best of the Bay 2005, 2006, and 2007, Chloe’s Closet buys, sells, and trades clothing from newborn to six years, as well as toys, gear, books, videos, and maternity clothing.

But we’re not talking any old used thing. Chloe’s only sells “popular” and “up-to-date” items in great condition. The walls display rows of funky rain galoshes and Robeez. The clothing racks are filled with one quality item after another, with enough variety to match any parent’s taste. “I happened on this store by accident,” the mother of 15-month old Emma said, “and can’t describe how excited I was. I bought designer outfits that normally run very expensive for only a few dollars.” The toys—many wooden and educational—are immaculately stacked from floor-to-ceiling, and range from traditional stacking rings to art easels to a wooden rocking horse. Parents can also find gear such as strollers and carrying slings; and their tots can cozy up in the reading corner near bookshelves filled with picture and board books.

For those wary of sifting through used items, Chloe’s Closet only accepts clothing “freshly laundered (preferably in an unscented detergent); free of stains, holes and excessive wear; folded neatly in a bag or box.” Toys must be “in good condition, clean and in good working order” and “not be missing any important pieces.” The battery-operated toys should even include installed working batteries.

Chloe’s Closet is more than the average consignment store. It involves and connects with the customer more than one would expect of such an establishment. The shop stays open every day of the week to accommodate all kinds of schedules; and includes helpful information online such as their consignment policies, personalized wish lists, and a mailer that comes with five dollars in credit. To top it off, Chloe’s also connects with the community, locally donating consignment items that haven’t sold within eight weeks.

Make a day of it. Chloe’s Closet is located within easy walking distance from the public library, an ice cream parlor, a playground, restaurants, and a yoga studio that offers pre-natal, post-natal and kids’ yoga. Parking is even relatively easy. There is enough expense and stress that comes with parenting—don’t let how you clothe your child be one of them. You can move onto the next conundrum: explaining to your child why she shouldn’t stick peas up of her nose.

Whether you’re a belly dancer, a makeup artist, a burlesque performer or just a glamorous girl in need of something sparkly and new, the best place to find an array of festive fripperies is MultiKulti on Valencia.

A few months ago, I had a group of girlfriends visiting, some from as far away as Maine, some who live as close as the Castro. We were having a Girls’ High Holiday, and one of the lovelies brought gifts of glitter and false eyelashes for everyone – courtesy of MultiKulti. I hadn’t yet been, and she went on to rave about the fabulous things you could find in cubbies and corners of this magical store. I made her promise to take me to this wonderland of accessories the next time we hung out in the City, and she was more than happy to oblige.

Though the store hours are listed as 12-7 daily, I’ve been there twice when it was closer to 8:00 p.m. than to 7, and the store has still been bustling with customers. Even at the late hour, the owner has a kind smile for everyone, and is happy to help you find something that is perfect for your mood, be it grumpy or goofy. From the colorfully painted rice bowls in the front display to the sterling silver jewelry in glass cases, the glitter-laden hairpieces to the astounding array of fishnets and tights, there is absolutely something here for every girly girl around. Did I mention that they carry NYX cosmetics? It’s a small selection, but perhaps the only place I know in SF that does, so make sure you add it to your list of makeup musts.

But wait; don’t think for one minute that this means there’s nothing for the less feminine among us! Also to be discovered if one looks just a bit more carefully are argyle suspenders and lanyards covered in Jolly Rogers. They’ve got cigarette and business card cases bearing face cards in spades and luggage locks with skulls for keys. It’s the home of any number of motley curios, ranging from the slightly strange to the truly bizarre.

MultiKulti is a great place to while away half an hour or so while you wait for your table at one of the nearby restaurants, or the perfect spot to get the inspiration or finishing touches for your costume for that upcoming party. Don’t be shy – get the glitter, go for the giant earrings, and find those false lashes – you’re entitled to an all-out glam-out, and this shop will not only make it possible, but make it a whole lot of fun.

I can pass hours at a time at just about any bookstore, and the number of independent shops here in San Francisco has kept me thoroughly elated for months. Though I'll visit any bookstore, any time, and never walk out empty-handed, when I'm truly on the hunt, I nearly always make my way to Phoenix Books in Noe Valley. With sister stores Dog Eared Books and Red Hill Books, these three make up the most comprehensive selection of new and used books I've found so far.

Approaching the store, I always get sidetracked by the carts of books on the sidewalk. From under-rated to over-loved, the books here are cut to ridiculously low prices, and I can always find at least one treasure among the more laughable titles. From there, content with the knowledge that I've got at least one new book to take home, I head inside for a more luxurious browse through their wares.

I have a book shopping method. I always head to the furthest back, most hidden section, and work my way forward, one shelf at a time. By the time I reach the front of the store, my arms are nearly always laden with science fiction, cookbooks, writings about writing, and at least one title from the new release overstock table. Setting them, and my adult brain, aside, I crouch onto the diminutive wooden chair provided in the nook of children's and young adult titles, mindful of any small patrons who may think it strange to see a twenty-something woman curling up in "their" section. I begin running my finger across the spines of books I know practically by heart. I nod in satisfaction to see The Chronicles of Narnia in their original order, am excited to find a brand new hard cover copy of the Velveteen Rabbit, and send a word of thanks to the recently deceased Madeline L'Engle as I leaf through the familiar pages of A Wrinkle In Time. It is here that I conclude my shopping, my pile of books greatly increased, and head to the counter and the friendly smiles of the Phoenix staff. They ring me up, and though I know I've found some great steals, this is one of the only places that my surprise at the total is due to the amount being lower than I'd expected!

Whether you are on a feverish hunt for a particular title, in need of some inspiration, or you want to reconnect with your childhood through a story that brings you back on the first page, start your search at Phoenix; there's a good chance it will come to a successful end there, every time.

Everyone knows that Haight St. is one of the most jam-packed shopping locales in San Francisco. What everyone DOESN'T know is that, tucked into a narrow storefront devoid of an awning or other blatant announcement of its presence, is one of the greatest finds for a handbag-aholic or connoisseur of funky accessories – Stuf, at 1612 Haight.

It's not a shop you go to when you've got your four best girlfriends in town; the shop is positively crammed full of merchandise in every available crevice, including the full wall of cubby holes where many of their handbags, totes, and attaché cases live. There are glass display cases in the center of the shop, allowing for single-file browsing along either side and in between. They make good use of the space, with shallow shelves, hanging items from walls and fixtures, and a small walk-in closet type of space towards the back dedicated to sale bags.

Their jewelry and other accessories run the gamut of styles, from inexpensive, brightly colored plastic dangling earrings, to jewel bedecked cigarette cases and compacts. They feature necklaces in a variety of lengths, many with the rockabilly and flash tattoo style themes of swallows, cherries, and the like. In a place of prominence are earrings made from the scales of a fish that is indigenous to a certain part of Peru; the story is on a small card in the store, and while it may not sound like an attractive material for jewelry, it's one you need to see to truly appreciate. Also packed into this tiny store are scarves, belts, and rings – the more you dig, the more treasures you'll unearth during your visit.

As for their main offering, I've never been one to ooh and aah over purses – I have had a few cute clutches that served their purpose and found themselves relegated to the depths of my closet shortly thereafter; I've attempted to carry a shoulder bag to avoid lumpy pocket syndrome and free up my hands (for ease of browsing while shopping, of course!) and more often than not found myself frantically trying to remember where I left the damned thing. Maybe it's a coming of age, or maybe – and more likely, I think – it's all about the bag. Finding one that I couldn't bear to let out of my sight, or off of my arm, took many years of searching… But when I did, it was at Stuf, and it was only after a good hour of deliberation that I was even able to decide between several styles that fit my needs and wants perfectly.

So when you head to the Haight, go ahead and pop into the stores that shout their wares from neon signs and sandwich boards, outlandish window displays and towering awnings, but make sure to keep your eyes open for this little shop that packs a big accessory punch; if you've got a taste towards the eccentric, or a hankering for a new handbag, you'll be glad you did.

When you think of Ghirardelli you automatically think of chocolate. At least most women do! But Ghirardelli Square isn’t just about chocolate – although there is plenty of that to go around as well. Ghirardelli Square is about tradition and history and enjoyment. Whether you’ve lived in San Francisco your entire life or just recently moved to the city by the bay, Ghirardelli Square offers culture, cuisines, and incredible shopping all in one place.

Located on North Point Street between Larkin and Polk Streets, Ghirardelli Square is a stopping spot for many of the businesses in the area for a quick bite to eat, as well as a place to gather with friends and family on the weekend. With over 50 restaurants, galleries, and boutiques there is no shortage of enjoyment, especially when it comes to visiting the Ghirardelli Chocolate manufactory. If you haven’t had the thrill of taste testing and learning about one of the best chocolates in the world, you simply don’t know what you’re missing. The manufactory is open for different hours during the seasons so you need to call ahead to make sure they are taking tours the day you plan on arriving.

In September you can enjoy the Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival which brings in people to celebrate a very special cause, Project Open Hand. The money that is raised goes to this very special charity, and Ghirardelli is proud to be part of this annual tradition by bringing in some of the best chocolate delicacies from the Bay area to share with locals and tourists alike. In October you can enjoy the popular Fleet Week where you can watch the Blue Angels fly overhead in the most amazing aerial stunts you’ll ever see. It doesn’t matter which time of the year you visit this very diverse area of San Francisco, you’ll have a great time.

For the most fun you can just jump on the cable car that lets you off at Beach and Hyde Street and walk the quick block to Ghirardelli Square. From there you can shop at some of the "one of a kind" stores such as Fun Time, Glass Creations, and Lola of North Beach. For lunch or dinner you can partake in sumptuous meals at Cellar 360, Lori’s Diner, or Marche on the Square. Whether you’re looking for a dessert with the famous Ghirardelli hot fudge sauce or a more romantic dinner for two…you’ll certainly find what you are looking for in the square.

Ghirardelli Square is a very unique area of San Francisco that calls to both residents and tourists. The art galleries are some of the best in the city, and the boutiques are eclectic and fun to shop in. Ghirardelli Square has been around for more than 30 years and continues to be a landmark in the city – offering patrons everything from culinary delights to mouth watering chocolate treats.

Pier 39, located in the popular Fisherman’s Wharf area, is an attraction all on its own. There is something for everyone at Pier 39 and that’s why so many people flock to it year round. Tourists abound, but locals have to admit they like it as well. In fact, many of the people that shop in the 110 stores and dine at the 14 restaurants are people that just walked in from the surrounding neighborhoods – North Beach and Telegraph Hill.

Pier 39 is an excellent way to show family and friends the sights or just to take in the many street performers and music that seems to be pumped in from everywhere. Summer is a great time to experience Pier 39, but there are seasonal events year round. Fleet week is always a popular event, just as Pumpkin Pandemonium is for the kids. It isn’t just about the shopping and dining, although that is just as wonderful. Pier 39 is more about the overall experience and the stunning views of San Francisco.

Within Pier 39 there are plenty of attractions to broaden the mind and entertain you. First and foremost you have the most popular residents of Pier 39. The sea lions of course! Their barking can be heard throughout the pier and all over Fisherman’s Wharf. Every weekend from 11am to 5pm they do sea lion tours where you can learn about the precious animals that make Pier 39 their home. There are hundreds of them that can be seen at any given time, and the visit alone is worth the trip to Pier 39.

Visiting the Aquarium of the Bay is another stop for animal lovers on Pier 39. San Francisco has amazing marine life that people just aren’t aware of. You can see them all in a very natural setting while you walk through 300 feet of crystal clear tunnels. You can see and sometimes touch many of the creatures that live in the shores of this beautiful city.

If you’re considering going to Pier 39 on a date, you can try a little adventure with the city kayaks that are available for rental. If you are an experienced kayaker, take your kayak and head out to the famed Golden Gate Bridge or Alcatraz Island to paddle around in more advanced waters. If you are a beginner, you can certainly take in the beautiful waterfront views while enjoying a day in the San Francisco waters.

San Francisco is a beautiful place, but Pier 39 is truly special to the neighborhood locals and the people living in San Francisco. It is easy to get to and you’ll find plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, recreation, or simply sitting around and passing the day away.