Exploring the Mission (SF)
by
This is my neighborhood, so this is what I do on the weekend. This list is ordered roughly from South to North. Start at one end of Valencia and work your way to the other end. Lots of great stuff along the way.
Mission Pie
Um, does anyone not like pie? Mission Pie uses organic fruit from nearby Pie Ranch in Pescadero and bakes everything on site. Good coffee too.
Anthony's Cookies
Anthony came up with the idea to mix Oreo chunks into his cookie batter, so clearly he is a genius. Seriously, you want these cookies.
Attic
Small, dark bar right by 24th/Mission Bart station. I like it because it's not as much of a 'scene' as some other bars in the 'hood.
Papalote
A haiku that I recently read sums it up best: great gringo salsa - tastily unauthentic- i go twice a week
Beretta
I especially like the appetizers and cocktails (try the "airmail"). It can get pretty noisy inside, so sit at one of the outside tables if the weather permits.
Velvet Cantina
Holy crap get the super nachos as a meal for 2 and split a pitcher of pineapple margaritas. You will thank me.
Lone Palm
A bit off the main Valencia strip, so this place is more geared towards locals. Mellow vibe, tables to sit, and sometimes even snacks!
Lucca Ravioli Co.
If your grandma was an Italian packrat, this would be her pantry. Tons of italian wines, jarred/canned goods, and the best salamis and cheeses.
Ritual Coffee Roasters
One of the best coffee places in San Francisco. Excellent espresso drinks, french press coffee, and Clover coffee. Beans roasted in-house. Many hipsters.
826 Valencia
Stop here for all your pirate supplies. Mind the code, including "Captain has first pick of seawenches". Oh, and they also offer tutoring for kids.
Paxton Gate
Lots of interesting stuff having to do with the natural sciences. From plants, to tea, to fossils, to taxidermy. Something for everyone.
Burger Joint
Is it wrong to refer to a burger, fries and shake as "the holy trinity"? Burger Joint is serving up the gospel 7 days a week.
Phoenix Pub
I love their Irish soda bread, and I always get the "Tayto Chips and Skins" (three kinds of dip!) and the Shepherd's Pie.
Dolores Park
This is where San Franciscans go to drink beer and worship the sun. Outdoor movies shown Thursday nights in the summer!
Delfina
A slightly Californian take on Italian food. Uses mostly local & organic ingredients, and always delicious.
BiRite Creamery
High quality, homemade ice cream with unique flavors like salted caramel and brown butter pecan. Really tasty.
Tartine
Amazing baked goods. I like to go for a calorie-bomb breakfast of croissant (with butter and jam) and a morning bun.
Farina Focaccia Cucina
Yummy Italian food. The focaccia with prosciutto and burrata are sooo good. I ate about 7 of them on my last visit and didn't even feel ashamed.
Artists-X-Change
Interesting collection of art from local artists. Includes paintings, photos, ceramics and jewelry.
Therapy Furniture & Clothing Stores
Fun, modern, and not-too-expensive furniture store next to fun, modern and not-too-expensive clothing store.
Monk's Kettle
Did you know a beer place could be all fancy? It can when it has like 100 beers from around the world. Plus a decent wine list and great food. Crazy, right?!
Casanova Lounge
If you want to experience the hipster scene in all its glory, this is the place. Guy dressed like Prince on a Tuesday? Check.
Arinell Pizza
Nice, thin slice of pizza. Usually pretty fresh out of the oven. Good for a snack or light meal.
Kilowatt
Gets a little bonkers on the weekend, but come on a weeknight, or during the day, and it's super mellow. Pool table. And they allow dogs :)
Fourbarrel Coffee
The owner Jeremy (in the pic) is crazy about quality, so all the drinks here are good. Just don't try asking for sissy stuff like nonfat milk or flavored syrup.
Zeitgeist
Large outdoor patio in a sunny part of the city. Home-grilled burgers and brats, and delicious margaritas, bloody marys and beers.
Leave a comment (4 comments)
dougnboston said 9 months, 2 weeks ago:
Very nice guide. Been hearing about fourbarrel and need to give it a try!
sharon said 3 months, 1 week ago:
Julie, this list must be good, almost every recommendation is seconded or thirded (or more) by another nextstopper! Makes me want to get on a plane to SF right now!
rebga said 3 months, 1 week ago:
Great guide Juliej! Makes me want to get off the couch right now and head to the Mission. Maybe I'll start at Therapy and then head over to pet the hairless cat at Borderlands.
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adrian said 1 year, 6 months ago:
Great list -- I can't wait for Valencia Corridor by NIGHT!