Listed are some of the coolest independent shops in San Francisco.

To begin, select a neighborhood and/or tag from below.

The stores associated with your selection will appear right here and on the map.

101 Music

For those who savor the hunt as much as the feast, 101 Music is the perfect music store. Nearly every square nanometer of the shop's two locations are replete with vinyl records spanning...

101 Music

For those who savor the hunt as much as the feast, 101 Music is the perfect music store. Nearly every square nanometer of the shop's two locations are replete with vinyl records spanning...

826 Valencia

Towards the back of 826 Valencia is a hidden treasure, a writing/tutoring center providing much needed help and guidance to local school kids. So it seems rather appropriate that the front space...

A B Fits

With one of the largest selections of denim on the west coast, A B Fits is a fitting tribute to the city the birthed the blue jean. With their 30 or so styles of pants and jeans there is at least...

Acrimony

Reader Suggested: I was looking through the men's stores in the SF guide and saw Archive, American Rag, Nida and Harput's Market. I only shop at 5 clothing stores in the Bay, and they are the...

Adobe Books

When a local artist wanted to do an art installation by rearranging all the books in a bookstore by color, Adobe Books agreed and the result was magical. Can you imagine a corporate store ever...

Alla Prima

For some unknown reason European women understand the concept of buying lingerie for themselves--not for Valentine's Day, the new boyfriend or girlfriend or their wedding nights. They buy and...

Alla Prima

For some unknown reason European women understand the concept of buying lingerie for themselves--not for Valentine's Day, the new boyfriend or girlfriend or their wedding nights. They buy and...

American Rag

Seamlessly mixing new and vintage clothing to create a unique look may mainly be the work of hip celebrity stylists, but with stores like American Rag the task got just a little bit easier. The...

Amoeba Music

For anyone who doubts for a second the ability of independent music stores to survive against the corporate megastore witness Amoeba. The huge, vibrant record store stocks thousands of new and...

Amoeba Music

For anyone who doubts for a second the ability of independent music stores to survive against the corporate megastore witness Amoeba. The huge, vibrant record store stocks thousands of new and...

Anica

A few visits is all it takes to make Anica your new best friend. What other shop scours far and near to find pieces from intrepid, emerging designers. What other shop stocks a curated selection...

Aquarius Records

Tired of music stores where the staff's knowledge does not run much deeper than Justin + Britney 4EVER? Try Aquarius Records. The feisty music store, specializing in indie rock, metal, punk...

Aqua Surf Shop

The light wooden floors, the pleasant aqua walls, the well lit and well organized retail floor are three of the many reasons why Aqua is not your average surf shop. For the hardcore surfer who...

Aqua Surf Shop

The light wooden floors, the pleasant aqua walls, the well lit and well organized retail floor are three of the many reasons why Aqua is not your average surf shop. For the hardcore surfer who...

Architectural Elements

Architechtural Elements is the store with the courage of its convictions. The look they present is unwaveringly modern, from the block sofas to the dramatic lighting cast in steel or ceramic, from...

Area

Reader Suggested: Area is an interior accessories store. It features a wide variety of items beautifully displayed by the owner John. With a keen eye John carries items that will please any interior designer or...

Argonaut Book Shop

Between the Gold Rush and the 1906 earthquake, the Mexican American War and the OJ trial, we say California has had more history than some centuries-old nations. Argonaut Book Shop is the...

Aria

Sure you can go ahead and call Aria an antique shop, but this isn't your grandmother's antique shop--where you need to dig through tons of junk to find treasure. The objects at Aria are...

Atys

When an inset, half-hidden store is packed with men and women, young and old, it's usually a sign that they're doing something right. In Atys' case, they're doing everything...

August

In August you'll find a shop where the hip, zen surroundings are perfectly in tune with the clothing and accessories. Laid out in an impossibly long shelf one side is denim from some of the...

Backspace

Having spent its early year in the back of neighborhood furniture shop Find, Backspace was quite literally that. These days the shop has grown into its own pretty little storefront, but its...

Bath Sense & More

The flowers growing in the bathtub outside will intrigue you into going inside Bath Sense. Once you do, you'll find yourself in the middle of a fantasyland of bath and body products. Plush...

Behind the Post Office

Behind the Post Office, a small store that's somewhat lost in the craziness of Haight-Ashbury, offers the fundamentals of fashionable living. Among its super-funky neighbors, the store is a...

Bettina

Bettina carries the brands carried by most other chic boutiques in San Francisco. But, what sets Bettina apart is their ability to introduce new brands to San Francisco. Among the usual suspects...

Big Pagoda

The goods of most American showrooms purporting to sell Chinese furniture are about as Chinese as Beef and Broccoli and Chow Mein. Not so at Big Pagoda. Owner Kurt Silver spent over a decade in...

Blackman Cruz

At Blackman Cruz the objects either came from dead people, are made from dead people or animals or could easily kill you. By objects that came from dead people we of course mean antiques, but...

Black Oak Books

If you go to a bookstore to drink a caramel cinnamon super-moca-fraza-chino-mundo and peruse the magazine section then we just can't recommend Black Oak. It seems that the staff and clientele...

Blu

The hipper, younger sister of Cielo, Blu is less expensive and less serious. Inside the simple, sanitary interior, Blu lets their clothes do the talking--and boy do they have a lot to say. They...

Body Time

Long before a "bath and body" store was a staple of American Life, Body Time was making and selling its own soaps, oils and lotions. The store began as a perfume shop, where essential...

Body Time

Long before a "bath and body" store was a staple of American Life, Body Time was making and selling its own soaps, oils and lotions. The store began as a perfume shop, where essential...

Body Time

Long before a "bath and body" store was a staple of American Life, Body Time was making and selling its own soaps, oils and lotions. The store began as a perfume shop, where essential...

Body Time

Long before a "bath and body" store was a staple of American Life, Body Time was making and selling its own soaps, oils and lotions. The store began as a perfume shop, where essential...

Body Time

Long before a "bath and body" store was a staple of American Life, Body Time was making and selling its own soaps, oils and lotions. The store began as a perfume shop, where essential...

Body Time

Long before a "bath and body" store was a staple of American Life, Body Time was making and selling its own soaps, oils and lotions. The store began as a perfume shop, where essential...

Bound Together Books

Harkening back to Haight Ashbury's counter-culture roots Bound Together is a bookstore that does the '60s proud. The volunteer-run collective mainly stocks books, zines and other...

Bows & Arrows

Reader Suggested: Bows & Arrows is a sneaker store in Berkeley, CA on historical Telegraph Avenue. We carry limited releases from Adidas, Vans Vault, New Balance U.K., Creative Recreation, Asics and Nike...

Britex Fabrics

We're not exactly clothing designers nor do we pretend to be, but even we can't can't help peeking inside Britex Fabrics every time we pass by it. Such is the allure of thousands...

Builders Booksource

With the proliferation of home-improvement shows it seems that if you have a thousand dollars and a can of paint you can turn any room into a designer showroom. For anyone who is looking for a...

Builders Booksource

With the proliferation of home-improvement shows it seems that if you have a thousand dollars and a can of paint you can turn any room into a designer showroom. For anyone who is looking for a...

Bulo

It's pretty easy at this point to get the shoes of all the major European luxury brands in America. But what about the smaller outfits? The type of designers that make everyday shoes that are...

Bulo

It's pretty easy at this point to get the shoes of all the major European luxury brands in America. But what about the smaller outfits? The type of designers that make everyday shoes that are...

Candystore

There are definitely some candies, mostly of the classic variety, at CandyStore. But most of the candy comes in the form of eye candy. The cheery space fill racks and shelves with fun, colorful...

Chamalyn

If you haven't had the pleasure of eating the Black Sesame Pocky snack or using an eraser shaped like sushi or writing on a notepad decorated with some cutesy critter on acid, it's never...

Cielo

Cielo is the older, more serious sister to Blu. Cielo tends to travel in European circles and owns every room she walks into. The clothes are for adults without being too adult. The very latest...

City Lights

When is a store not just a store? When it plays a pivotal role in a major American literary movement. Opened in 1953 by poet Louis Ferlinghetti, City Lights quickly became a favorite hangout of...

Comic Relief

Long after most comic books shops have closed down and others are just barely hanging on, Comic Relief is thriving. Why? Maybe it's the owner's unabashed devotion to all things comic...

Dark Garden

Every so often we come across a store that does something unique, really, really well. Such is the case with Dark Garden. The store focuses on making one-of-a-kind, custom corsets. Using...

Dema

Sure you could, and should, buy French fashions and Italian fashions and Japanese fashions. But don't miss the great clothing design that's happening right in your backyard. Dema is the...

De Vera

A small out of the way storefront is no precursor to the drama and refinement that waits inside De Vera. The store mainly holds the designs of San Francisco jewelry designer Frederico de Vera. De...

Diesel

For those that are used to independent bookstores of the cramped and cluttered variety, Diesel is a breath of fresh air. The design conscious, fiercely independent bookstore stocks new and used...

Dish

There is only one fact you need to know about Dish, the owner carried Seven jeans before just about anyone. Before every butt from Tillamook to Tuscaloosa was (sort of) covered by Seven jeans,...

Dish

There is only one fact you need to know about Dish, the owner carried Seven jeans before just about anyone. Before every butt from Tillamook to Tuscaloosa was (sort of) covered by Seven jeans,...

Doe

Doe is general store, San Francisco style. In what isn't the biggest space in the world they manage to squeeze in clothing for men, women and children, various home accessories, lotions and...

Dog Eared Books

Phoenix, Dog Eared, and Red Hill Books represent a type of bookstore that's fast fading into extinction. They're big, lively, a bit messy and generally a good place to spend an hour or...

Double Punch

Double Punch is where Robocop meets Blythe, where Han Solo meets the Uglydolls. The collectors' toy store does not discriminate as to where the toys come from, the pedigree (designer toy or...

Eden & Eden

Eden & Eden is not, it turns out, redundant. There really are two of them. There's a sophisticated Eden that travels the Europe and collects notable design objects and jewelry, even...

Elizabeth Charles

Paris, Milan, New York and . . . Sydney? The country better known for its marsupials and pristine beaches is an emerging fashion center as well and Elizabeth Charles is a perfect showcase for the...

Erica Tanov

Carrying clothing from her own brand and others of a similar vein, Erica Tanov sees the modern woman as a Zen fairy who still manages to run her own business, raise three healthy kids and pair...

Erica Tanov

Carrying clothing from her own brand and others of a similar vein, Erica Tanov sees the modern woman as a Zen fairy who still manages to run her own business, raise three healthy kids and pair...

Flax Art & Design

It's hard not to walk into Flax Art & Design and be inspired. Inspired to make a card, draw a picture, frame a photograph or pick up a paint brush. The family-owned art supply store sets...

Flight 001

These days where every train station and airport have become bastions of legalized assault, it's nearly impossible to be a fashionable traveler. So, you have two options, you could travel in...

Flight 001

These days where every train station and airport have become bastions of legalized assault, it's nearly impossible to be a fashionable traveler. So, you have two options, you could travel in...

Form Vintage Modern

At Form Vintage Modern you'll see two different approaches to the same aesthetic. First are mid-century modern furnishings in pristine condition. Teak chairs, Danish casegoods, low-lying...

Giant Robot

If Giant Robot the magazine began as an ode to Asian pop culture, then Giant Robot the store is now a mecca for the same. Alongside copies of the latest issue of GR you'll find all sorts of...

Gimme Shoes

Gimme Shoes has been keeping San Francisco high society in heels for decades now. The store stocks only the finest, most stylish European shoes. There's nary a shoe to take a stroll in the...

Gimme Shoes

Gimme Shoes has been keeping San Francisco high society in heels for decades now. The store stocks only the finest, most stylish European shoes. There's nary a shoe to take a stroll in the...

Gingko

In the world of furniture "custom made" is too often code for "out of your price range," and "Asian" evokes images the Buddhas, temples and intricate carvings. In...

Harputs

Years before Run DMC sang "My Adidas" Harputs set up shop in a quiet corner of San Francisco and became a haven for all things Adidas. Decades later their fervor for the brand has not...

Harputs Market

For decades avant-garde fashion jetted from New York to Tokyo, flying right over San Francisco's head. With Harputs Market, dark, high-style clothing finally has a West Coast outpost. The...

HeidiSays

Is there anyone that hasn't experienced the joys of a lollipop? HeidiSays isn't just a lollipop, it's that giant lollipop that you can only get from amusement parks. First, the...

House of Hengst

House of Hengst quite literally houses designer Susan Hengst's thriving fashion line. The line is best known for its dresses, which exude femininity and confidence in equal parts. But almost...

Huf

Huf is all about sneakers. Retro sneakers, classic Vans, a ton of Nike along with some brands you'll be hard pressed to find outside of New York. The sneakers are set up gallery style for...

Huf

Huf is skate shop, sneaker geek heaven and hip clothing boutique rolled up into one (or three rather). The 808 Sutter and Hayes street locations are all about sneakers. Retro sneakers, classic...

Inside

Don't discount the value of a good reproduction. The bedrock of Inside's collection are reproductions of mid-century modern classics, made as their creators would have wanted them. Eames...

Iris

You need only look Iris' cute logo, glance at their cute window, and you'll be ready for the cute lingerie that awaits inside. The cozy, comfortable lingerie lounge that's clearly...

Isotope

Between its cool couch, the array of comics laid out just so and the widely grinning owner and his funky suits, it's hard to see Isotope Comics as anything other than a realization of a dream...

Kidrobot

To call Kidrobot just a toy store would be like calling Barneys just a department store. The cool, quirky store was a pioneer in selling designer toys. These vinyl, plush and plastic toys are...

Kozo Arts

Following age-old Japanese techniques, Kozo Arts is all about the art of paper making and book binding. Their silkscreen prints are printed on handmade paper, each color individually screened to...

La Rosa Vintage Boutique

Reader Suggested: Carries the absolute best men's and ladies vintage clothing and accessories. From about 1900s-1960s. Lots of suits and cocktail dresses.

Le Sanctuaire

For quite literally a taste of the good life, try Le Sanctuaire. The foodie haven stocks the absolute finest spices and specialty food products (Iranian caviar, French salt, premium olive oil),...

Light Me Up... Turn Me On

Want to instantly make a room look better, bolder, more beautiful? Start with the lighting. Light Me Up... Turn Me On specializes in architectural lighting, the type of lighting that can transform...

LIMN

Is it a New York furniture showroom you want? A massive space complete with massively expensive avant-garde furniture, conceptual design accessories and a demure staff clad in back? LIMN is...

Little Otsu

Little Otsu began as a vegan accessories retailer but when it realized the vegan market as being met it morphed into a printer and retailer of creative paper goods. Now there's a progression...

Look Boutique

When an art gallery begets a boutique, expect a more cultured approach to consumerism. Look Boutique, the seemingly accidental offshoot of Silverman gallery, exists only in the corners and backroom...

Lost Art Salon

It's a good bet you might get lost once or twice on your way to Lost Art Salon. But that's somewhat appropriate considering you're going to a gallery that celebrates unheralded...

Lotus Bleu

Lotus suggests Asia, Bleu suggests France and in the case of Lotus Bleu both suggestions are accurate. Lotus Bleu brings together art, textiles and home accents from Southeast Asia and France. The...

Lunettes du Monde

You will pay dearly but gladly for glasses from Lunettes du Monde. Then you will put on your glasses, find yourself staring at any shiny surface and smile. The store understands that glasses are...

MAC

In fashion, where fortunes turn on a dime, that a little boutique can persist for 20 years and stay every bit as relevant as it was when it opened is nothing short of remarkable. MAC has done just...

Metier

Metier is how we've come to prefer our clothing stores. No massive avant-garde installation art. No secret doors or hidden signs. No gimmicks. Just a long, long rack of nice clothes. Some...

Miki's Paper

A purveyor of Japanese hand stenciled paper, Miki's Paper proves that on rare occasions a store can be a calm, tranquil space. We're not sure why it happens, but as soon as you walk into...

Modern Artifacts

Artifacts, in this case, is not an overstatement. Modern Artifacts finds and sells the type of furniture, mostly from the mid-20th century, that can also be found in the permanent collections of...

Modern Times Bookstore

Bill O'Reilly's head would probably explode upon walking into Modern Times Bookstore and can we all agree that that's a good thing? The decades old bookshop fills it shelves with...

Mod Lang

There are few true barometers of "coolness" out there. We firmly believe one of them sits behind the window of Mod Lang. Just look at their weekly chart of albums and see how many of...

Moe's Books

While a grand old piece of history itself, Moe's Books is a great steward of literary history as well. The four-storied bookstore is full of new, used and rare books. The used book section...

Monument

Monument is just that to the world of mid-century furniture and accessories design. Th museum like space house an enviable line up of furnishings. Like any museum, some pieces are classics that...

Musical Offering

A calm haven in a frenzied world, Musical Offering is one of few record stores left specializing in classical music. Their collection is extensive: they specialize in Early Music (music made from...

Nancy Boy

90 percent of new skin, hair and body product lines are 99 marketing. They get the same old stuff, put it all in sleek packaging and sell it you for way more than they should. Not so with Nancy...

Needles & Pens

Needles & Pens shows us you don't need a book deal to publish, nor a sales rep and a studio to make clothes. This is creativity at a more personal, DIY level. Needles is led by co-owner...

Nida

It's hard to find small stores in San Francisco that carry designer-with-a-capital-D clothing. Nida is one of a few such stores. The collection, drawing from Europe's finest, is...

Ooma

Short for objects of my affection, Ooma offers the quirky vision of its owner who invites you into her store as if you were a good friend dropping in for tea. She loves her store, her customers...

Past Perfect

Reader Suggested: Past Perfect over on Union St (and also Lombard, they opened a second location) is a fabulous vintage store that I love to explore. They carry home decor, furniture and fun knick-knacks from the...

Past Perfect

Reader Suggested: Past Perfect over on Union St (and also Lombard, they opened a second location) is a fabulous vintage store that I love to explore. They carry home decor, furniture and fun knick-knacks from the...

Paxton Gate

Paxton Gate calls itself an "eccentric garden store." The plants are in the back but to get there you'll have to navigate a wall of moose and deer heads, Japanese sheers and...

Peace Industry

You know a trade is a dying craft when you've never heard of or seen it before you walk in to one particular store. In this case, we're talking about a store called Peace Industry and the...

Phoenix Books

Phoenix, Dog Eared, and Red Hill Books represent a type of bookstore that's fast fading into extinction. They're big, lively, a bit messy and generally a good place to spend an hour or...

Picnic

Picnic is easy to describe, but hard to believe. The merchandise, the staff and the set-up of this small store will charm you, and you'll buy something really cute for less than $100. The...

Propeller

Propeller is not just another nonsensical, hipper-than-thou store name. To us at least, it refers to the careers or promising young designer the store helps propel. The furniture and accessories...

Rabat

Reliable and steady may not sound complimentary, but Rabat proves that it can be the highest of compliments. If you ever want shoes in San Francisco, Rabat should be one of your first stops....

Rabat

Reliable and steady may not sound complimentary, but Rabat proves that it can be the highest of compliments. If you ever want shoes in San Francisco, Rabat should be one of your first stops....

Rabat

Reliable and steady may not sound complimentary, but Rabat proves that it can be the highest of compliments. If you ever want shoes in San Francisco, Rabat should be one of your first stops....

Rabat

Reliable and steady may not sound complimentary, but Rabat proves that it can be the highest of compliments. If you ever want shoes in San Francisco, Rabat should be one of your first stops....

RAG

San Francisco is not exactly known as a hot-bed of fashion design and production, but that doesn't mean there aren't still some talented designers eager to showcase their work. For these...

Rare Device

We take a rare device to be an item of a certain utility that is unique and hard to find. And, at stocking these, Rare Device excels. Every corner of the cozy store is occupied with a rare device...

Rasputin Music

In lieu of the sanitized, homogenized look of corporate record stores, Rasputin Music prefers something a little more interesting. Posters, stickers and flyers cover the walls. Black shelves house...

Rasputin Music

In lieu of the sanitized, homogenized look of corporate record stores, Rasputin Music prefers something a little more interesting. Posters, stickers and flyers cover the walls. Black shelves house...

Rasputin Music

In lieu of the sanitized, homogenized look of corporate record stores, Rasputin Music prefers something a little more interesting. Posters, stickers and flyers cover the walls. Black shelves house...

Rasputin Music

In lieu of the sanitized, homogenized look of corporate record stores, Rasputin Music prefers something a little more interesting. Posters, stickers and flyers cover the walls. Black shelves house...

Rasputin Music

In lieu of the sanitized, homogenized look of corporate record stores, Rasputin Music prefers something a little more interesting. Posters, stickers and flyers cover the walls. Black shelves house...

Rasputin Music

In lieu of the sanitized, homogenized look of corporate record stores, Rasputin Music prefers something a little more interesting. Posters, stickers and flyers cover the walls. Black shelves house...

Rayon Vert

We might have passed by items like those in Rayon Vert a dozen times without taking a second look. Which explains why we'll never be able to open such a store. The shop, that was once more...

Recycled Records

Something tells us that long after CDs take their place on the shelves of history, vinyl records will be alive and well. Recycled Records has been selling used vinyl since 1977 and today serves as...

Red Hill Books

Phoenix, Dog Eared, and Red Hill Books represent a type of bookstore that's fast fading into extinction. They're big, lively, a bit messy and generally a good place to spend an hour or...

Rims & Goggles

Whether looking for simple, conservative wire-rimmed frames or colorful, even flamboyant plastic frames Rims & Goggles has the frame, or probably the dozen or so frames for you. The Bay Area...

Rims & Goggles

Whether looking for simple, conservative wire-rimmed frames or colorful, even flamboyant plastic frames Rims & Goggles has the frame, or probably the dozen or so frames for you. The Bay Area...

Rims & Goggles

Whether looking for simple, conservative wire-rimmed frames or colorful, even flamboyant plastic frames Rims & Goggles has the frame, or probably the dozen or so frames for you. The Bay Area...

Rose and Radish

Known for its dramatic, beautiful floral arrangements, Rose & Radish has turned its keen design sense to home design. Alongside flowers, their modern gallery space now presents an expertly...

Scandinavian Details

Whether vintage, vintage reproduction, or new work, Scandinavian furniture designs have no shortage of stores dedicated to them. Scandinavian Details gives Scandinavian accessories their day in...

Scout

Think reconnaissance, not cookies. Scout serves as your travel scout, visiting locales far and wide and bringing back a collection of delightful accessories, furnishings, crafts, art and random...

Self Edge

The phrase Self Edge might not mean anything to the average person, but to the denim aficionado it's like a secret password into a world where shuttle looms and indigo dye, warp and weft are...

SF MOMA Store

The store of San Francisco's pride-and-joy museum is, by extension, rather well appointed. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art's (MOMA) store is stocked certainly with books and...

Smash

If you're feeling to old to wear neon sneakers but are too young to wear tasseled loafers, then you're probably just the right age for the shoes at Smash. The shoe shop has a selection of...

Spectacles for Humans

Reader Suggested: Our specialty is the best in eyewear today. No big shiny labels or brand names, for the most part, just small independent designers such as Orgreen, Mykita, Gotti+Niederer, Reiz Augenspiel,...

Static

Navigating the minefield of polyester shirts with shark fins for collars, bell bottoms with flowery beading and ruffled, puffy armed tuxedo shirts, Static focuses on "modern vintage."...

Super7

Who would know better what the hottest toys are, who the most talented designers and artists are, who to see about designing a mean looking T-shirt, than a store that's an arm of a magazine...

Swallowtail

At Swallowtail expect to see a Louis XIV chair upholstered in a graffiti print fabric five feet away from a wingback in a traditional floral fabric, clean modern white ceramics a glance away from...

Tail of the Yak

It's almost impossible to describe Tail of the Yak. So it's probably best to just describe what's in it, the doves for example. Yes, real, peace and love doves live in a cage in the...

The Archive

Reader Suggested: This store is one of GQ's top 100 (men's) stores in the US.

The Curiosity Shoppe

Curiosities are the objects that help turn a house into a home, an office into an personal workspace. And so we have The Curiosity Shoppe, one couple's guided tour of inspiring objects being...

The Grocery Store

Taking the produce buying experience to new heights, The Grocery Store stocks all the latest European threads in its minimalist, warehouse space. Matching the stark surroundings, the clothes tend...

The Grocery Store

Taking the produce buying experience to new heights, The Grocery Store stocks all the latest European threads in its minimalist, warehouse space. Matching the stark surroundings, the clothes tend...

Thousand Cranes

Most of us know futons as "college furniture". Enter Thousand Cranes, the Japanese futon shop. It seems in Japan futons are perfectly stylish and functional pieces of furniture....

Tre Balm

You know that friend, the one that always looks amazing (without a plastic surgeon)? And when you ask her what she's doing she casually mentions water and an un-pronounceable lotion. An avid...

True Sake

Billed at "America's First Sake Store" True Sake has made it its mission to educate the unwashed masses about this lovely, complex beverage. There are dozens upon dozens of pretty...

Velvet da Vinci

Many a jewelry store fancies itself a "gallery", its wares "art", but Velvet Da Vinci is one of the few we've seen where this classification isn't the least bit of a...

X21 Modern

X21 sure sounds like it could be a sci-fi movie, so then it's appropriate that the store looks like the warehouse of a movie production. Stocking a huge collection of antique and vintage...

Zazu & Violets'

We rarely feel nostalgic for the days of yore--no toothbrush, deodorant or vote. But, we can't help but feel some nostalgia for the accessories of yore--most especially hats. The few stores...

Zinc Details

If you know anything about San Francisco, it's that a design store where everyone wears black turtlenecks will be a miserable failure. The owners of Zinc Details appreciate the wear flowers in...

Zinc Details

If you know anything about San Francisco, it's that a design store where everyone wears black turtlenecks will be a miserable failure. The owners of Zinc Details appreciate the wear flowers in...

Zonal

Zonal's antique furnishings are nicked and scratched because been around a long time, not because some designer was trying achieve a "distressed" look. That sort of honesty pervades...

101 Music

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/101_music_2_1_web.jpg

For those who savor the hunt as much as the feast, 101 Music is the perfect music store. Nearly every square nanometer of the shop's two locations are replete with vinyl records spanning multiple genres. It's up to you to separate the trash from the treasure, but if you do strike gold you'll walk out the shop with it for a...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
513 Green Street
San Francisco CA 94133

Phone: 1-415-392-6368

Tags: music, musical instruments, vintage musical instruments, vinyl

101 Music

For those who savor the hunt as much as the feast, 101 Music is the perfect music store. Nearly every square nanometer of the shop's two locations are replete with vinyl records spanning multiple genres. It's up to you to separate the trash from the treasure, but if you do strike gold you'll walk out the shop with it for a...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1415 Grant Street
San Francisco CA 94133

Phone: 1-415-392-6369

Tags: music, musical instruments, vintage musical instruments, vinyl

826 Valencia

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/826_valencia_1_web.jpg

Towards the back of 826 Valencia is a hidden treasure, a writing/tutoring center providing much needed help and guidance to local school kids. So it seems rather appropriate that the front space of the space function as a pirate supply store. From messages in a bottle, to glass eyes, to maps and flags, all your buccaneering needs are met in...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
826 Valencia Street
San Francisco CA 94110

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-642-5905
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12-6

Tags: costumes, pirate supplies

A B Fits

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/ab_fits_1_web.jpg

With one of the largest selections of denim on the west coast, A B Fits is a fitting tribute to the city the birthed the blue jean. With their 30 or so styles of pants and jeans there is at least one pair for every body type. Clothing from Europe, Asia and America includes something for every taste. The original North Beach location has a laid...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1519 Grant Avenue
San Francisco CA 94133

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-982-5726
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Sat: 11-6:30 Sun: 12-6

Tags: denim, men's clothing, women's clothing

Acrimony

Reader Suggested: I was looking through the men's stores in the SF guide and saw Archive, American Rag, Nida and Harput's Market. I only shop at 5 clothing stores in the Bay, and they are the aforementioned four and Acrimony. Acrimony has a bunch of SF-exclusive labels, the best sales staff of the bunch and is definitely on...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
515 Gough Street
San Francisco California 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-861-1025
Hours: Mon, Wed-Sat: 11-7 Tue: Closed Sun: 12-6

Tags: men's accessories, men's clothing, women's accessories, women's clothing

Adobe Books

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/adobe_bookshop_1_web.jpg

When a local artist wanted to do an art installation by rearranging all the books in a bookstore by color, Adobe Books agreed and the result was magical. Can you imagine a corporate store ever agreeing to such a thing? The delightful bookstore with an art gallery in the back is a space where books, art and people can peacefully coexist. First...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
3166 16th Street
San Francisco CA 94110

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-864-3936

Tags: art, books, used books

Alla Prima

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/alla_prima_nbeach_1_web.jpg

For some unknown reason European women understand the concept of buying lingerie for themselves--not for Valentine's Day, the new boyfriend or girlfriend or their wedding nights. They buy and regularly wear lacy beautiful (and always coordinated) bras and panties--just because they're women and they have the right. Alla Prima has...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1420 Grant Avenue
San Francisco CA 94133

Phone: 1-415-397-4077
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-5

Tags: europe, lingerie

Alla Prima

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/alla_prima_hayes_1_web.jpg

For some unknown reason European women understand the concept of buying lingerie for themselves--not for Valentine's Day, the new boyfriend or girlfriend or their wedding nights. They buy and regularly wear lacy beautiful (and always coordinated) bras and panties--just because they're women and they have the right. Alla Prima has...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
539 Hayes Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Phone: 1-415-864-8180
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-5

Tags: europe, lingerie

American Rag

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/american_rag_1_web.jpg

Seamlessly mixing new and vintage clothing to create a unique look may mainly be the work of hip celebrity stylists, but with stores like American Rag the task got just a little bit easier. The store's large space is filled to the brim with new and vintage clothing and accessories. The eerily well-organized vintage section has large...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1305 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco CA 94109

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-474-5214
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-9 Sun: 12-7

Tags: denim, men's clothing, men's shoes, vintage clothing, women's clothing, women's shoes

Amoeba Music

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/amoeba_music_1_web.jpg

For anyone who doubts for a second the ability of independent music stores to survive against the corporate megastore witness Amoeba. The huge, vibrant record store stocks thousands of new and used CDs and vinyl (including tons of imports), DVDs, posters and more, and they do it all without towing the major label line. The independent store...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2455 Telegraph Avenue
Berkeley CA 94704

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-549-1125
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10:30-10 Sun: 11-9

Tags: music, vinyl

Amoeba Music

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/amoeba_music_1_web.jpg

For anyone who doubts for a second the ability of independent music stores to survive against the corporate megastore witness Amoeba. The huge, vibrant record store stocks thousands of new and used CDs and vinyl (including tons of imports), DVDs, posters and more, and they do it all without towing the major label line. The independent store...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1855 Haight Street
San Francisco CA 94117

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-831-1200
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10:30-10 Sun: 11-9

Tags: music, vinyl

Anica

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/anica_1_web.jpg

A few visits is all it takes to make Anica your new best friend. What other shop scours far and near to find pieces from intrepid, emerging designers. What other shop stocks a curated selection vintage clothing and jewelry that will save hours on eBay. What other boutique has a dress for nearly every occasion. Yes, Anica does all this and...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2418 Polk Street
San Francisco CA 94109

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-447-2878
Hours: Mon: 12-6 Tue-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: women's accessories, women's clothing

Aquarius Records

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/aquarius_records_1_web.jpg

Tired of music stores where the staff's knowledge does not run much deeper than Justin + Britney 4EVER? Try Aquarius Records. The feisty music store, specializing in indie rock, metal, punk and electronica, is like a music education in and of itself. Most albums on the racks come complete with a description / review / commentary on the...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1055 Valencia Street
San Francisco CA 94110

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-647-2272
Hours: Mon-Wed: 10-9 Thu-Sun: 10-10

Tags: music

Aqua Surf Shop

The light wooden floors, the pleasant aqua walls, the well lit and well organized retail floor are three of the many reasons why Aqua is not your average surf shop. For the hardcore surfer who knows what they want and how they want it, there are dozens of boards, suits and related doodads from which to choose. For the casual or beginner surfer,...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2830 Sloat Boulevard
San Francisco CA 94116

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-242-9283
Hours: Mon-Tue: 10-5:30 Wed-Sat: 10-7 Sun: Closed

Tags: surfing, swimwear

Aqua Surf Shop

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/aqua_haight_1_web.jpg

The light wooden floors, the pleasant aqua walls, the well lit and well organized retail floor are three of the many reasons why Aqua is not your average surf shop. For the hardcore surfer who knows what they want and how they want it, there are dozens of boards, suits and related doodads from which to choose. For the casual or beginner surfer,...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1742 Haight Street
San Francisco CA 94117

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-876-2782
Hours: Mon-Sun: 11-7

Tags: surfing, swimwear

Architectural Elements

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/architectural_elements_1_web.jpg

Architechtural Elements is the store with the courage of its convictions. The look they present is unwaveringly modern, from the block sofas to the dramatic lighting cast in steel or ceramic, from the substantial wooden dining room tables to the pristine glassware. Sure some of it looks sort of scary, and most of it comes with scary price...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
573 Valencia Street
San Francisco CA 94110

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-252-8370
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12-7

Tags: furniture, home accessories, modern

Area

Reader Suggested: Area is an interior accessories store. It features a wide variety of items beautifully displayed by the owner John. With a keen eye John carries items that will please any interior designer or consumer. He also seeks out handcrafted and local products that fit well into modern interiors.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
540 Jackson Street
San Francisco CA 94133

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-989-2732

Tags: furniture, home accessories, modern

Argonaut Book Shop

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/argonaut_book_shop_1_web.jpg

Between the Gold Rush and the 1906 earthquake, the Mexican American War and the OJ trial, we say California has had more history than some centuries-old nations. Argonaut Book Shop is the unofficial keep of said history. The antiquarian book focuses it's collection on the Western Americana in general and California in particular.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
786 Sutter Street
San Francisco CA 94109

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-474-9067
Hours: Mon-Fri: 9-5 Sat: 10-4 Sun: Closed

Tags: books, california, rare books

Aria

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/aria_1_web.jpg

Sure you can go ahead and call Aria an antique shop, but this isn't your grandmother's antique shop--where you need to dig through tons of junk to find treasure. The objects at Aria are all treasures in their own way. Beautiful maps and charts, boxes and jars, wooden carvings and metal light fixtures are sprinkled throughout. If the...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1522 Grant Avenue
San Francisco CA 94133

Phone: 1-415-433-0219
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-6 Sun: 12-5

Tags: antiques, curiosities, europe, good for gifts, maps

Atys

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/atys_1_web.jpg

When an inset, half-hidden store is packed with men and women, young and old, it's usually a sign that they're doing something right. In Atys' case, they're doing everything right. The industrial design outfit has put together one of the most compelling collections of items we have ever seen. Not content to just carry...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2149-B Union Street
San Francisco CA 94123

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-441-9220
Hours: Mon-Sun: 11-6:30

Tags: design, home accessories, modern

August

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/oakland/august_1_web.jpg

In August you'll find a shop where the hip, zen surroundings are perfectly in tune with the clothing and accessories. Laid out in an impossibly long shelf one side is denim from some of the finest manufacturers. On the other side are minimal pieces from Belgian designers and quality, organic basics. In between and all around are selected...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
5410 College Avenue
Oakland CA 94618

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-652-2711

Tags: denim, men's clothing, women's clothing

Backspace

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/backspace_1_web.jpg

Having spent its early year in the back of neighborhood furniture shop Find, Backspace was quite literally that. These days the shop has grown into its own pretty little storefront, but its underground sensibilities are firmly intact. Shop for niche New York labels alongside better known boutique labels and jewelry and accessories from local...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
425 Hayes Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Phone: 1-415-701-7112

Tags: women accessories, women's clothing

Bath Sense & More

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/bath_sense_1_web.jpg

The flowers growing in the bathtub outside will intrigue you into going inside Bath Sense. Once you do, you'll find yourself in the middle of a fantasyland of bath and body products. Plush Egyptian cotton towels, olive oil soaps, natural sponges, candles and fine bath oil and salts, fill the space with myriad scents and textures. The...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
3610A Sacramento Street
San Francisco CA 94118

Phone: 1-415-567-2638
Hours: Mon-Fri: 10-6:30 Sat: 10-6 Sun: Closed

Tags: bath and body products, textiles

Behind the Post Office

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/behind_the_post_office_1_web.jpg

Behind the Post Office, a small store that's somewhat lost in the craziness of Haight-Ashbury, offers the fundamentals of fashionable living. Among its super-funky neighbors, the store is a bastion of clean lines, elegant cuts and neutral colors. This isn't the type of clothing that will turn heads, but it is the type of versatile,...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1510 Haight Street
San Francisco CA 94117

Phone: 1-415-861-2507
Hours: Mon-Sun: 11-7

Tags: women's clothing

Bettina

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/bettina_1_web.jpg

Bettina carries the brands carried by most other chic boutiques in San Francisco. But, what sets Bettina apart is their ability to introduce new brands to San Francisco. Among the usual suspects you are likely to find a small designer that makes the perfect pair of black pants, the perfect pair of jeans or the perfect cashmere sweater. The...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
3654 Sacramento Street
San Francisco CA 94118

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-563-8002
Hours: Mon-Fri: 10:30-6:30 Sat: 10:30-6 Sun: 12-4

Tags: lingerie, women's accessories, women's clothing

Big Pagoda

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/big_pagoda_1_web.jpg

The goods of most American showrooms purporting to sell Chinese furniture are about as Chinese as Beef and Broccoli and Chow Mein. Not so at Big Pagoda. Owner Kurt Silver spent over a decade in China and Big Pagoda is the product of his years there. The store is stocked its own line of classic and contemporary Chinese furniture, made in China...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
310 Sutter Street
San Francisco CA 94108

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-296-8881 or 1-877-272-4632
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-6 Sun: Closed

Tags: antiques, asia, china, furniture, home accessories

Blackman Cruz

At Blackman Cruz the objects either came from dead people, are made from dead people or animals or could easily kill you. By objects that came from dead people we of course mean antiques, but Blackman Cruz' selections are decidedly dark or just pain odd--framed mug shots, any number of phalluses, industrial tools and so on. Made from...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2021 17th Street
San Francisco CA 94103

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-934-9228

Tags: antiques, curiosities, furniture, home accessories

Black Oak Books

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/black_oak_books_1_web.jpg

If you go to a bookstore to drink a caramel cinnamon super-moca-fraza-chino-mundo and peruse the magazine section then we just can't recommend Black Oak. It seems that the staff and clientele of Black Oak actually, shudder the thought, like to read. Inside you'll find mostly used books, with a selection of new titles. We get a...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1491 Shattuck Avenue
Berkeley CA 94709

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-486-0698
Hours: Mon-Sun: 10-10

Tags: books, used books

Blu

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/blu_2_web.jpg

The hipper, younger sister of Cielo, Blu is less expensive and less serious. Inside the simple, sanitary interior, Blu lets their clothes do the talking--and boy do they have a lot to say. They come from all over the world, particularly Europe, and they make you beautiful just by hanging out with (on) you. The staff is charming and helpful....

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2259 Fillmore Street
San Francisco CA 94115

Phone: 1-415-776-0643
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: europe, women's clothing

Body Time

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/body_time_goughe_2_web.jpg

Long before a "bath and body" store was a staple of American Life, Body Time was making and selling its own soaps, oils and lotions. The store began as a perfume shop, where essential oils were sold as potent perfume or used to custom scent lotions, shampoos and moisturizers. The store still provides this unique service today, but...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1942 Shattuck Avenue
Berkeley CA 94704

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-841-5818
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-7 Sun: 11-6

Tags: bath and body products

Body Time

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/body_time_tele_1_web.jpg

Long before a "bath and body" store was a staple of American Life, Body Time was making and selling its own soaps, oils and lotions. The store began as a perfume shop, where essential oils were sold as potent perfume or used to custom scent lotions, shampoos and moisturizers. The store still provides this unique service today, but...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2509 Telegraph Avenue
Berkeley CA 94704

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-548-3686
Hours: Mon-Sun: 11-6

Tags: bath and body products

Body Time

Long before a "bath and body" store was a staple of American Life, Body Time was making and selling its own soaps, oils and lotions. The store began as a perfume shop, where essential oils were sold as potent perfume or used to custom scent lotions, shampoos and moisturizers. The store still provides this unique service today, but...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2911 College Avenue
Berkeley CA 94705

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-845-2101
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-6:30 Sun: 11-6

Tags: bath and body products

Body Time

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/oakland/body_time_1_web.jpg

Long before a "bath and body" store was a staple of American Life, Body Time was making and selling its own soaps, oils and lotions. The store began as a perfume shop, where essential oils were sold as potent perfume or used to custom scent lotions, shampoos and moisturizers. The store still provides this unique service today, but...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
5521 College Avenue
Oakland CA 94618

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-547-4116
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-7 Sun: 11-6

Tags: bath and body products

Body Time

Long before a "bath and body" store was a staple of American Life, Body Time was making and selling its own soaps, oils and lotions. The store began as a perfume shop, where essential oils were sold as potent perfume or used to custom scent lotions, shampoos and moisturizers. The store still provides this unique service today, but...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
611 San Anselmo Avenue
San Anselmo CA 94960

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-459-5806
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-6 Sun: 11-6

Tags: bath and body products

Body Time

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/body_time_haight_1_web.jpg

Long before a "bath and body" store was a staple of American Life, Body Time was making and selling its own soaps, oils and lotions. The store began as a perfume shop, where essential oils were sold as potent perfume or used to custom scent lotions, shampoos and moisturizers. The store still provides this unique service today, but...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1465 Haight Street
San Francisco CA 94117

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-551-1070
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 11-6

Tags: bath and body products

Bound Together Books

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/bound_together_1_web.jpg

Harkening back to Haight Ashbury's counter-culture roots Bound Together is a bookstore that does the '60s proud. The volunteer-run collective mainly stocks books, zines and other literature relating to anarchism, radical politics, globalization, conspiracy theories and the like.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1369 Haight Street
San Francisco CA 94117

Phone: 1-415-431-8355
Hours: Mon-Sun: 11:30-7:30

Tags: anarchist, books, progressive

Bows & Arrows

Reader Suggested: Bows & Arrows is a sneaker store in Berkeley, CA on historical Telegraph Avenue. We carry limited releases from Adidas, Vans Vault, New Balance U.K., Creative Recreation, Asics and Nike Quickstrike. Bows and Arrows is connected to the Bay Area art scene and host openings regularly featuring anyone from local up and...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2513 Telegraph Avenue
Berkeley CA 94704

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-649-6683
Hours: Mon-Fri: 11-7 Sat-Sun: 11-6

Tags: men's shoes, sneakers, women's shoes

Britex Fabrics

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/britex_fabrics_1_web.jpg

We're not exactly clothing designers nor do we pretend to be, but even we can't can't help peeking inside Britex Fabrics every time we pass by it. Such is the allure of thousands upon thousands of fabrics. Browse 4 floors of leathers, laces, silks and jerseys, but if you're actually looking to buy you're better off...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
146 Geary Street
San Francisco CA 94108

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-932-2910
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-6 Sun: Closed

Tags: buttons, fabrics, textiles

Builders Booksource

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/builders_booksource_1_web.jpg

With the proliferation of home-improvement shows it seems that if you have a thousand dollars and a can of paint you can turn any room into a designer showroom. For anyone who is looking for a reality check or a house that doesn't involve MDF, stop by Builders Booksource. The aptly named bookstore stocks titles focusing on the building...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1817 4th Street
Berkeley CA 94710

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-845-6874 or 1-800-843-2028
Hours: Mon-Sat: 8:30-7 Sun: 10-7

Tags: architecture, books, design

Builders Booksource

With the proliferation of home-improvement shows it seems that if you have a thousand dollars and a can of paint you can turn any room into a designer showroom. For anyone who is looking for a reality check or a house that doesn't involve MDF, stop by Builders Booksource. The aptly named bookstore stocks titles focusing on the building...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
900 North Point Street
San Francisco CA 94109

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-440-5773
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-8 Sun: 11-7

Tags: architecture, books, design

Bulo

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/bulo_hayes_437_1_web.jpg

It's pretty easy at this point to get the shoes of all the major European luxury brands in America. But what about the smaller outfits? The type of designers that make everyday shoes that are both comfortable and stylish. That's what Bulo is all about. Every few weeks, the store gets a new shipment of shoes from Europe that...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
437-A Hayes Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-864-3244
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: europe, men's shoes

Bulo

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/bulo_hayes_418_1_web.jpg

It's pretty easy at this point to get the shoes of all the major European luxury brands in America. But what about the smaller outfits? The type of designers that make everyday shoes that are both comfortable and stylish. That's what Bulo is all about. Every few weeks, the store gets a new shipment of shoes from Europe that...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
418 Hayes Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-255-4939
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: europe, women's shoes

Candystore

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/candystore_1_web.jpg

There are definitely some candies, mostly of the classic variety, at CandyStore. But most of the candy comes in the form of eye candy. The cheery space fill racks and shelves with fun, colorful T-shirts, dresses, jackets and the like, often from local designers. To this sugary base they add both new and vintage accessories, plates, bowls and...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
3153 16th Street
San Francisco CA 94103

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-863-8143
Hours: Mon-Sat: 12-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: home accessories, local designers, t-shirts, vintage accessories, vintage home accessories, women's accessories, women's clothing

Chamalyn

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/chamalyn_1_web.jpg

If you haven't had the pleasure of eating the Black Sesame Pocky snack or using an eraser shaped like sushi or writing on a notepad decorated with some cutesy critter on acid, it's never too late to start. Chamalyn stock the sorts of snacks, gifts and diversions you'll typically only find in Tokyo.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
3491 19th Street
San Francisco CA 94110

Phone: 1-415-850-9955

Tags: candies, foods and drinks, japan, paper goods, snacks

Cielo

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/cielo_1_web.jpg

Cielo is the older, more serious sister to Blu. Cielo tends to travel in European circles and owns every room she walks into. The clothes are for adults without being too adult. The very latest from high fashion heavyweights combine with little known international labels to form high end shopping nirvana. Cashmere sweaters, fabulous dresses,...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2225 Fillmore Street
San Francisco CA 94115

Phone: 1-415-776-0641
Hours: Mon-Sat: 9-9 Sun: 12-6

Tags: europe, women's clothing

City Lights

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/city_lights_1_web.jpg

When is a store not just a store? When it plays a pivotal role in a major American literary movement. Opened in 1953 by poet Louis Ferlinghetti, City Lights quickly became a favorite hangout of Beat writers like Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg. Three years later City Lights started publishing its own books and became a symbol of dissent when...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
261 Columbus Avenue
San Francisco CA 94133

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-362-8193
Hours: Mon-Sun: 10-12

Tags: beat, books, poetry

Comic Relief

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/comic_relief_1_web.jpg

Long after most comic books shops have closed down and others are just barely hanging on, Comic Relief is thriving. Why? Maybe it's the owner's unabashed devotion to all things comic related. From lunch boxes and toys to comics and graphic novels, Comic Relief has it all. Even small run comics that few have ever heard of find their...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2026 Shattuck Avenue
Berkeley CA 94704

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-843-5002
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-10 Sun: 12-8

Tags: comic books, toys

Dark Garden

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/dark_garden_1_web.jpg

Every so often we come across a store that does something unique, really, really well. Such is the case with Dark Garden. The store focuses on making one-of-a-kind, custom corsets. Using old-world techniques, they create corsets in traditional and modern styles. The store creates all types of corsets--fetish to wedding. In addition, since...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
321 Linden Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-431-7684
Hours: Mon-Wed: 12-6 Thu: 12-7 Fri-Sat: 12-6 Sun: Closed

Tags: corsets, custom-made, lingerie

Dema

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/dema_1_web.jpg

Sure you could, and should, buy French fashions and Italian fashions and Japanese fashions. But don't miss the great clothing design that's happening right in your backyard. Dema is the shop and clothing line of San Francisco local Dema Grim. There are some nice basics lines around as well a smart collection of accessories but the star...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1038 Valencia Street
San Francisco CA 94110

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-206-0500

Tags: girly, local designers, women's accessories, women's clothing

De Vera

A small out of the way storefront is no precursor to the drama and refinement that waits inside De Vera. The store mainly holds the designs of San Francisco jewelry designer Frederico de Vera. De Vera's jewelry designs area worldly, incorporating a variety of methods, precious and semi-precious stones and an antique gilded look....

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
29 Maiden Lane
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-788-0828
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Sat: 10-6 Sun: Closed

Tags: home accessories, jewelry

Diesel

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/oakland/diesel_1_web.jpg

For those that are used to independent bookstores of the cramped and cluttered variety, Diesel is a breath of fresh air. The design conscious, fiercely independent bookstore stocks new and used books of all genres and is host to author readings, language classes and reading groups.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
5433 College Avenue
Oakland CA 94618

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-653-9965
Hours: Mon-Thu: 10-9 Fri-Sat: 10-10 Sun: 10-6

Tags: books, used books

Dish

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/dish_1_web.jpg

There is only one fact you need to know about Dish, the owner carried Seven jeans before just about anyone. Before every butt from Tillamook to Tuscaloosa was (sort of) covered by Seven jeans, Dish convinced a legion of Northern California women that jeans that rode low could look sexy and chic. The store continues to carry great brands that...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2981 College Avenue
Berkeley CA 94705

Phone: 1-510-540-4784
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-6 Sun: 11-5

Tags: women's accessories, women's clothing

Dish

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/dish_1_web.jpg

There is only one fact you need to know about Dish, the owner carried Seven jeans before just about anyone. Before every butt from Tillamook to Tuscaloosa was (sort of) covered by Seven jeans, Dish convinced a legion of Northern California women that jeans that rode low could look sexy and chic. The store continues to carry great brands that...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
541 Hayes Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Phone: 1-415-252-5997
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-5

Tags: women's accessories, women's clothing

Doe

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/doe_1_web.jpg

Doe is general store, San Francisco style. In what isn't the biggest space in the world they manage to squeeze in clothing for men, women and children, various home accessories, lotions and notions, art and even a good bit of jewelry. Clothing is decidedly organic--whether by using nature-inspired prints on the dresses or animal drawings...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
629a Haight Street
San Francisco CA 94117

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-558-8588
Hours: Mon-Sat: 12-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: bath and body products, children's clothing, home accessories, paper goods, t-shirts, women's accessories, women's clothing

Dog Eared Books

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/dog_eared_books_1_web.jpg

Phoenix, Dog Eared, and Red Hill Books represent a type of bookstore that's fast fading into extinction. They're big, lively, a bit messy and generally a good place to spend an hour or two. They're consummate hosts to a variety of community reading, music and poetry events. And they each have something that chains will never...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
900 Valencia Street
San Francisco CA 94110

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-282-1901
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-10 Sun: 10-8

Tags: books, used books

Double Punch

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/double_punch_1_web.jpg

Double Punch is where Robocop meets Blythe, where Han Solo meets the Uglydolls. The collectors' toy store does not discriminate as to where the toys come from, the pedigree (designer toy or major manufacturer) or the price point. They seem to stock toys they think are cool and leave it at that.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1821 Powell Street
San Francisco CA 94133

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-399-9785
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 11-6

Tags: toys, urban vinyl

Eden & Eden

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/eden_eden_1_web.jpg

Eden & Eden is not, it turns out, redundant. There really are two of them. There's a sophisticated Eden that travels the Europe and collects notable design objects and jewelry, even tracking down one off vintage items. And the quirky Eden that injects a bit of humor and quirk into the collection. The result is a shop that curates a...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
560 Jackson Street
San Francisco CA 94133

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-983-0490

Tags: england, good for gifts, home accessories, jewelry, tableware, vintage home accessories, women's accessories

Elizabeth Charles

Paris, Milan, New York and . . . Sydney? The country better known for its marsupials and pristine beaches is an emerging fashion center as well and Elizabeth Charles is a perfect showcase for the up and coming talent. Clothing is runway quality, less soft T-shirts and slim-fitting jeans and more smoothly flowing dresses, chic plaid jackets,...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2056 Fillmore Street
San Francisco CA 94115

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-440-2100
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 11-5

Tags: australia, women's clothing

Erica Tanov

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/erica_tanov_1_web.jpg

Carrying clothing from her own brand and others of a similar vein, Erica Tanov sees the modern woman as a Zen fairy who still manages to run her own business, raise three healthy kids and pair wines with food. The store's line of ethereal, utterly feminine clothes is manufactured with multiple colors and types of fabrics each season. This...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1837 4th Street
Berkeley CA 94710

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-849-3331
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-6 Sun: 12-5

Tags: children's clothing, local designers, women's clothing

Erica Tanov

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/erica_tanov_1_web.jpg

Carrying clothing from her own brand and others of a similar vein, Erica Tanov sees the modern woman as a Zen fairy who still manages to run her own business, raise three healthy kids and pair wines with food. The store's line of ethereal, utterly feminine clothes is manufactured with multiple colors and types of fabrics each season. This...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2408 Fillmore Street
San Francisco CA 94115

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-674-1228

Tags: children's clothing, local designers, women's clothing

Flax Art & Design

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/flax_art_and_design_1_web.jpg

It's hard not to walk into Flax Art & Design and be inspired. Inspired to make a card, draw a picture, frame a photograph or pick up a paint brush. The family-owned art supply store sets a new standard with its dizzying array of paints, canvases, frames, papers, chalks, pens and just about anything you're going to need to do...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1699 Market Street
San Francisco CA 94103

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-552-2355
Hours: Mon-Sat: 9:30-6 Sun: Closed

Tags: art supplies, paper goods

Flight 001

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/flight_001_1_web.jpg

These days where every train station and airport have become bastions of legalized assault, it's nearly impossible to be a fashionable traveler. So, you have two options, you could travel in the back seat of your parents' car or you could begin an intensive regimen to re-program your mind. Our suggested starting point: pay a visit to...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
525 Hayes Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-487-1001
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 11-6

Tags: bags, gadgets, luggage, travel

Flight 001

These days where every train station and airport have become bastions of legalized assault, it's nearly impossible to be a fashionable traveler. So, you have two options, you could travel in the back seat of your parents' car or you could begin an intensive regimen to re-program your mind. Our suggested starting point: pay a visit to...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1774 4th Street
Berkeley CA 94710

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-526-1001
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-6 Sun: 10-6

Tags: bags, gadgets, luggage, travel

Form Vintage Modern

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/oakland/form_vintage_modern_1_web.jpg

At Form Vintage Modern you'll see two different approaches to the same aesthetic. First are mid-century modern furnishings in pristine condition. Teak chairs, Danish casegoods, low-lying fabric couches--all the standards are there. Interspersed between these iconic pieces are official reproductions of vintage classics and modern accessories.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
5330 College Avenue
Oakland CA 94618

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-420-1950
Hours: Mon-Tue: Closed Wed-Sun: 12-6

Tags: furniture, home accessories, mid-century modern, vintage furniture, vintage home accessories

Giant Robot

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/giant_robot_1_web.jpg

If Giant Robot the magazine began as an ode to Asian pop culture, then Giant Robot the store is now a mecca for the same. Alongside copies of the latest issue of GR you'll find all sorts of pop-y Asian items (and some American stuff that is just cool enough to be sold in Japan). Comic and design books, funky accessories, stickers and...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
618 Shrader Street
San Francisco CA 94117

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-876-4773
Hours: Mon-Fri: 11:30-8 Sat: 11-8 Sun: 12-7

Tags: art, asia, books, japan, toys, t-shirts, zines

Gimme Shoes

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/gimme_shoes_pachts_1_web.jpg

Gimme Shoes has been keeping San Francisco high society in heels for decades now. The store stocks only the finest, most stylish European shoes. There's nary a shoe to take a stroll in the neighborhood, but there are about a dozen ready for the opera. Which is not say the store is not neighborhood conscious--each location is stocked...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2358 Fillmore Street
San Francisco CA 94115

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-441-3040
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: men's shoes, women's shoes

Gimme Shoes

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/gimme_shoes_hayes_1_web.jpg

Gimme Shoes has been keeping San Francisco high society in heels for decades now. The store stocks only the finest, most stylish European shoes. There's nary a shoe to take a stroll in the neighborhood, but there are about a dozen ready for the opera. Which is not say the store is not neighborhood conscious--each location is stocked...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
416 Hayes Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-864-0691
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: men's shoes, women's shoes

Gingko

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/gingko_1_web.jpg

In the world of furniture "custom made" is too often code for "out of your price range," and "Asian" evokes images the Buddhas, temples and intricate carvings. In Gingko, both these problems are but a bad memory. The furniture shop produces its own extensive line of furniture, including several different models...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
249 9th Street
San Francisco CA 94103

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-552-4312
Hours: Mon-Sun: 10-6

Tags: asia, furniture

Harputs

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/harputs_1_web.jpg

Years before Run DMC sang "My Adidas" Harputs set up shop in a quiet corner of San Francisco and became a haven for all things Adidas. Decades later their fervor for the brand has not waned. While the shop retains the old school mom and pop shop look, Harputs has kept up with the brands evolution, carrying standard Adidas style, retro...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1527 Fillmore Street
San Francisco CA 94115

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-923-9300

Tags: sneakers

Harputs Market

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/harputs_market_1_web.jpg

For decades avant-garde fashion jetted from New York to Tokyo, flying right over San Francisco's head. With Harputs Market, dark, high-style clothing finally has a West Coast outpost. The looks for women and men, mostly in black and friends of black, is the type of moody, intellectual fashion that should fare well in the Ph.D. heavy, art...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1525 Fillmore Street
San Francisco CA 94115

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-922-9644
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: avant-garde, men's accessories, men's clothing, women's accessories, women's clothing

HeidiSays

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/heidi_says_2_web.jpg

Is there anyone that hasn't experienced the joys of a lollipop? HeidiSays isn't just a lollipop, it's that giant lollipop that you can only get from amusement parks. First, the store always looks colorful--the first time we walked by, kid you not, we thought it was a candy store. Even winter colors, on the rainiest of San...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2426 Fillmore Street
San Francisco CA 94115

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-749-0655
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 11-5

Tags: girly, women's clothing

House of Hengst

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/house_of_hengst_1_web.jpg

House of Hengst quite literally houses designer Susan Hengst's thriving fashion line. The line is best known for its dresses, which exude femininity and confidence in equal parts. But almost as appealing are separates and outwear with careful detailing. While Hengst is sold in some rather nice boutiques around the country, as the one and...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
924 Valencia Street
San Francisco CA 94110

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-642-0841

Tags: local designers, women's clothing

Huf

Huf is all about sneakers. Retro sneakers, classic Vans, a ton of Nike along with some brands you'll be hard pressed to find outside of New York. The sneakers are set up gallery style for maximum effect.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
808 Sutter Street
San Francisco CA 94109

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-614-9414
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: sneakers

Huf

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/huf_hayes_1_web.jpg

Huf is skate shop, sneaker geek heaven and hip clothing boutique rolled up into one (or three rather). The 808 Sutter and Hayes street locations are all about sneakers. Retro sneakers, classic Vans, a ton of Nike, along with some brands you're hard pressed to find outside of New York. The sneakers are set up gallery style for maximum...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
516 Hayes Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-552-3820
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: sneakers

Inside

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/inside_1_web.jpg

Don't discount the value of a good reproduction. The bedrock of Inside's collection are reproductions of mid-century modern classics, made as their creators would have wanted them. Eames chairs. George Nelson lamps. That sort of thing. This is alongside some modern (non-reproduction) furniture pieces and the works of local artists on...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
149 Gough Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-861-5975
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: furniture, mid-century modern

Iris

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/iris_1_web.jpg

You need only look Iris' cute logo, glance at their cute window, and you'll be ready for the cute lingerie that awaits inside. The cozy, comfortable lingerie lounge that's clearly aiming for a younger clientele is lined with a deceptively large selection of bras, panties and camisoles, mainly from smaller brands from North America...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1472 Haight Street
San Francisco CA 94117

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-252-1108

Tags: lingerie

Isotope

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/isotope_1_web.jpg

Between its cool couch, the array of comics laid out just so and the widely grinning owner and his funky suits, it's hard to see Isotope Comics as anything other than a realization of a dream about how a comic book shop ought to work. The laid back atmosphere provides ample space and time to peruse the many facets comic kingdom--the...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
325 Fell Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-621-6543
Hours: Mon: Close Tue-Fri: 11-7 Sat-Sun: 11-6

Tags: comic books

Kidrobot

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/kidrobot_1_web.jpg

To call Kidrobot just a toy store would be like calling Barneys just a department store. The cool, quirky store was a pioneer in selling designer toys. These vinyl, plush and plastic toys are designed by (primarily Asian) artists and often manufactured in very limited editions. They're intricate, creative and often rather strange toys the...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1512 Haight Street
San Francisco CA 94117

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-487-9000
Hours: Mon-Thu: 11-7 Fri-Sat: 11-8 Sun: 11-7

Tags: toys, urban vinyl

Kozo Arts

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/kozo_arts_1_web.jpg

Following age-old Japanese techniques, Kozo Arts is all about the art of paper making and book binding. Their silkscreen prints are printed on handmade paper, each color individually screened to achieve a gorgeous layered effect. Their albums, guest books and journals are made with heavy, archival quality paper and beautifully bound and...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1969A Union Street
San Francisco CA 94123

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-351-2114
Hours: Mon-Sun: 10:30-6:30

Tags: japan, paper goods

La Rosa Vintage Boutique

Reader Suggested: Carries the absolute best men's and ladies vintage clothing and accessories. From about 1900s-1960s. Lots of suits and cocktail dresses.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1711 Haight Street
San Fancisco CA 94117

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-668-3744

Tags: vintage clothing

Le Sanctuaire

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/santa_monica/le_sanctuaire_1_web.jpg

For quite literally a taste of the good life, try Le Sanctuaire. The foodie haven stocks the absolute finest spices and specialty food products (Iranian caviar, French salt, premium olive oil), hard-to-find cutlery, European cookbooks not widely sold in the US, and professional quality gadgets and appliances.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
315 Sutter Street
5th Floor
San Francisco CA 94108

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-986-4216
Hours: Mon-Fri: 10:30-4:30 Sat: By Appointment Sun: Closed

Tags: cookbooks, foods and drinks, kitchen, spices

Light Me Up... Turn Me On

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/light_me_up_1_web.jpg

Want to instantly make a room look better, bolder, more beautiful? Start with the lighting. Light Me Up... Turn Me On specializes in architectural lighting, the type of lighting that can transform the look and feel of a room. Unlike the many cramped showrooms we've seen, Light Me Up's space allows enough room for you to see each...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2263 Union Street
San Francisco CA 94123

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-409-6800
Hours: Mon: 11-6 Wed-Fri: 11-6 Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-5

Tags: lighting

LIMN

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/limn_1_web.jpg

Is it a New York furniture showroom you want? A massive space complete with massively expensive avant-garde furniture, conceptual design accessories and a demure staff clad in back? LIMN is everything you're looking for and more, and in California no less. Browse clever design accessories from world renowned industrial designers and...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
290 Townsend Street
San Francisco CA 94107

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-543-5466
Hours: Mon-Fri: 9:30-6 Sat-Sun: 11-6

Tags: design, europe, furniture, home accessories, italy, lighting, modern

Little Otsu

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/little_otsu_1_web.jpg

Little Otsu began as a vegan accessories retailer but when it realized the vegan market as being met it morphed into a printer and retailer of creative paper goods. Now there's a progression that you'll only find in San Francisco. The shop's own line of artful journals, cards and planners anchor the store. But just as cool are...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
849 Valencia Street
San Francisco CA 94110

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-255-7900
Hours: Mon-Tue: Closed Wed-Sun: 11:30-7:30

Tags: paper goods, t-shirts, zines

Look Boutique

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/look_boutique_1_web.jpg

When an art gallery begets a boutique, expect a more cultured approach to consumerism. Look Boutique, the seemingly accidental offshoot of Silverman gallery, exists only in the corners and backroom of the gallery space. But that doesn't mean it's not worth seeking out. The tightly curated selection includes fashion and art magazines...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
804 Sutter Street
San Francisco CA 94109

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-255-9508
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Sat: 11-6 Sun: Closed

Tags: jewelry, magazines, music, women's accessories

Lost Art Salon

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/lost_art_salon_1_web.jpg

It's a good bet you might get lost once or twice on your way to Lost Art Salon. But that's somewhat appropriate considering you're going to a gallery that celebrates unheralded artists of the early to mid 20th-century. The living room type space that should win some type of award for "Least Pretentious Galllery"...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
245 South Van Ness Avenue Suite 303
San Francisco CA 94103

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-861-1530
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Wed: 12-5 Thu: 12-7 Fri-Sat: 12-5 Sun: Closed

Tags: art, vintage ceramics

Lotus Bleu

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/lotus_bleu_1_web.jpg

Lotus suggests Asia, Bleu suggests France and in the case of Lotus Bleu both suggestions are accurate. Lotus Bleu brings together art, textiles and home accents from Southeast Asia and France. The interior designer owned shop is a treasure trove of ideas and objects. Most noteworthy are the textiles. Bedding, pillows, table linens and rugs...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
327 Hayes Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-861-2700
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Sun: 12-6

Tags: art, asia, france, home accessories, textiles, vietnam, vintage furniture

Lunettes du Monde

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/lunettes_du_monde_1_web.jpg

You will pay dearly but gladly for glasses from Lunettes du Monde. Then you will put on your glasses, find yourself staring at any shiny surface and smile. The store understands that glasses are a fashion item as much as a medical necessity. It has an amazing selection of frames, from the European standards to those little known Japanese...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1799 East 4th Street
Berkeley CA 94710

Phone: 1-510-559-8181
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-5:30 Sun: 12-5

Tags: eyewear

MAC

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/mac_1_web.jpg

In fashion, where fortunes turn on a dime, that a little boutique can persist for 20 years and stay every bit as relevant as it was when it opened is nothing short of remarkable. MAC has done just that and they've done it, as their name suggests, by seeking out Modern Appealing Clothing. The store, which seems to go on forever, carries an...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
387 Grove Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Phone: 1-415-863-3011
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: avant-garde, men's clothing, women's clothing

Metier

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/metier_1_web.jpg

Metier is how we've come to prefer our clothing stores. No massive avant-garde installation art. No secret doors or hidden signs. No gimmicks. Just a long, long rack of nice clothes. Some of the clothes are from small, hard to find European and New York labels. Some are from wider carried, better known brands. Some pieces are casual...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
355 Sutter Street
San Francisco CA 94108

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-989-5395
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-6 Sun: Closed

Tags: women's accessories, women's clothing

Miki's Paper

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/mikis_paper_1_web.jpg

A purveyor of Japanese hand stenciled paper, Miki's Paper proves that on rare occasions a store can be a calm, tranquil space. We're not sure why it happens, but as soon as you walk into Miki's Paper the tone and volume of your voice changes. Perhaps it's the thought that you are in the presence of fine art, as you look at...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1801 4th Street
Berkeley CA 94710

Phone: 1-510-845-9530
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10:30-6 Sun: 11-6pm

Tags: japan, paper goods

Modern Artifacts

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/modern_artifacts_1_web.jpg

Artifacts, in this case, is not an overstatement. Modern Artifacts finds and sells the type of furniture, mostly from the mid-20th century, that can also be found in the permanent collections of modern art museums around the country. In addition to iconic furniture chairs, tables and casegoods expect to see an interesting selection of vintage...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1639 Market Street
San Francisco CA 94103

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-255-9000
Hours: Mon-Thu: Closed Fri-Sun: 1-6

Tags: mid-century modern, vintage furniture, vintage home accessories

Modern Times Bookstore

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/modern_times_books_1_web.jpg

Bill O'Reilly's head would probably explode upon walking into Modern Times Bookstore and can we all agree that that's a good thing? The decades old bookshop fills it shelves with titles on globalization politics, sexuality and other issues progressives/liberals care about.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
888 Valencia Street
San Francisco CA 94110

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-282-9246
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-9 Sun: 11-6

Tags: books, progressive, used books

Mod Lang

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/mod_lang_2_web.jpg

There are few true barometers of "coolness" out there. We firmly believe one of them sits behind the window of Mod Lang. Just look at their weekly chart of albums and see how many of them you recognize. 0-25%? You've got some work to do. 25-75%? It's cool to be you. 75-100%? Hail to the chief. Mod Lang does not have the...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
6328 Fairmont Avenue
El Cerrito CA 94530

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-486-1880
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: electronica, indie, music

Moe's Books

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/moes_books_1_web.jpg

While a grand old piece of history itself, Moe's Books is a great steward of literary history as well. The four-storied bookstore is full of new, used and rare books. The used book section is the draw here. Lose yourself in the 100,000 or so neatly organized titles. If you're looking for something a bit more special, head on up to...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2476 Telegraph Avenue
Berkeley CA 94704

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-849-2087
Hours: Mon-Sun: 10-11

Tags: books, rare books, used books

Monument

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/monument_1_web.jpg

Monument is just that to the world of mid-century furniture and accessories design. Th museum like space house an enviable line up of furnishings. Like any museum, some pieces are classics that any informed vintage furniture buyer will instantly recognize while others of a more obscure provenance. The prices are high but we suppose...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
572 Valencia Street
San Francisco CA 94110

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-861-9800

Tags: mid-century modern, vintage furniture, vintage home accessories

Musical Offering

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/musical_offering_1_web.jpg

A calm haven in a frenzied world, Musical Offering is one of few record stores left specializing in classical music. Their collection is extensive: they specialize in Early Music (music made from 1000-1750) and they even release their own records via their own label. The store also serves as a café, serving meals and coffee throughout the day.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2430 Bancroft Way
Berkeley CA 94704

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-849-0211 or 1-888-298-1079
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-8 Sun: 11:30-5:30

Tags: cafes, classical, music

Nancy Boy

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/nancy_boy_1_web.jpg

90 percent of new skin, hair and body product lines are 99 marketing. They get the same old stuff, put it all in sleek packaging and sell it you for way more than they should. Not so with Nancy Boy. The San Francisco bath and body product line (and store) works with a local lab to create natural products, spending seven times more on...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
347 Hayes Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-552-3802

Tags: bath and body products

Needles & Pens

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/needles_and_pens_1_web.jpg

Needles & Pens shows us you don't need a book deal to publish, nor a sales rep and a studio to make clothes. This is creativity at a more personal, DIY level. Needles is led by co-owner Breezy Culbertson. Alongside T-shirts and such from other locals her clothing line consists of arty T-shirts and unique tops constructed from various...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
3253 16th Street
San Francisco CA 94103

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-255-1534

Tags: art, t-shirts, zines

Nida

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/nida_hayes_1_web.jpg

It's hard to find small stores in San Francisco that carry designer-with-a-capital-D clothing. Nida is one of a few such stores. The collection, drawing from Europe's finest, is impeccably selected and never lacking in the I-saw-it-in-Vogue-last-month department. The prices are worthy of the designers and the staff is very mellow--no...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
544 Hayes Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Phone: 1-415-552-4670
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10:30-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: europe, men's clothing, women's clothing

Ooma

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/ooma_1_web.jpg

Short for objects of my affection, Ooma offers the quirky vision of its owner who invites you into her store as if you were a good friend dropping in for tea. She loves her store, her customers and her designers. It's her enthusiasm that makes Ooma more than just another boutique carrying the same "hip" labels as every other...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1422 Grant Avenue
San Francisco CA 94133

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-627-6963
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Sat: 11-8 Sun: 12-5

Tags: girly, local designers, women's accessories, women's clothing

Past Perfect

Reader Suggested: Past Perfect over on Union St (and also Lombard, they opened a second location) is a fabulous vintage store that I love to explore. They carry home decor, furniture and fun knick-knacks from the 20s-70s. Past Perfect is a collective, housing rare, exclusive finds from 40 different vendors. Each vendor gets his or her own...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2224 Union Street
San Francisco CA 94123

Phone: 1-415-929-7651

Tags: antiques, vintage furniture, vintage home accessories

Past Perfect

Reader Suggested: Past Perfect over on Union St (and also Lombard, they opened a second location) is a fabulous vintage store that I love to explore. They carry home decor, furniture and fun knick-knacks from the 20s-70s. Past Perfect is a collective, housing rare, exclusive finds from 40 different vendors. Each vendor gets his or her own...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2246 Lombard Street
San Francisco CA 94123

Phone: 1-415-929-2288

Tags: antiques, vintage furniture, vintage home accessories

Paxton Gate

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/paxton_gate_1_web.jpg

Paxton Gate calls itself an "eccentric garden store." The plants are in the back but to get there you'll have to navigate a wall of moose and deer heads, Japanese sheers and Slovakian watering cans, tables stacked with odd jars and bowls, intriguing bits of furniture, teas and tea accessories, preserved bugs and butterflies and...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
824 Valencia Street
San Francisco CA 94110

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-824-1872
Hours: Mon-Fri: 12-7 Sat-Sun: 11-7

Tags: garden, good for gifts, home accessories, taxidermy, teas

Peace Industry

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/peace_industry_1_web.jpg

You know a trade is a dying craft when you've never heard of or seen it before you walk in to one particular store. In this case, we're talking about a store called Peace Industry and the craft of making wool felt rugs. Apparently an age-old tradition in Iran, the art of making wool felted rugs had nearly been lost until the owners of...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
535 Octavia Boulevard
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-255-9940
Hours: Mon: 10-6 Tue: Closed Wed-Sat: 10-6 Sun: 11-5

Tags: felt, iran, rugs

Phoenix Books

Phoenix, Dog Eared, and Red Hill Books represent a type of bookstore that's fast fading into extinction. They're big, lively, a bit messy and generally a good place to spend an hour or two. They're consummate hosts to a variety of community reading, music and poetry events. And they each have something that chains will never...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
3950 24th Street
San Francisco CA 94114

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-821-3477
Hours: Mon-Sat: 9-9 Sun: 9-8

Tags: books, used books

Picnic

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/picnic_1_web.jpg

Picnic is easy to describe, but hard to believe. The merchandise, the staff and the set-up of this small store will charm you, and you'll buy something really cute for less than $100. The store has a large collection of clothes and stuff for women, men and kids, but the real find is the small collection of Japanese and Korean clothing for...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1808 Polk Street
San Francisco CA 94109

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-346-6556
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Sat: 11-8 Sun: 12-6

Tags: good for gifts, women's accessories, women's clothing

Propeller

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/propeller_1_web.jpg

Propeller is not just another nonsensical, hipper-than-thou store name. To us at least, it refers to the careers or promising young designer the store helps propel. The furniture and accessories store is a slightly jumbled assortment of attractive, modern pieces. But fancy Italian and Scandinavian names are nowhere to be found. The store...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
555 Hayes Street
San Francisco CA

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-701-7667

Tags: design, furniture, home accessories, modern

Rabat

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/rabat_1_web.jpg

Reliable and steady may not sound complimentary, but Rabat proves that it can be the highest of compliments. If you ever want shoes in San Francisco, Rabat should be one of your first stops. Rabat reliably has a great collection of shoes from big and small designers. The shoes tend to be quirky yet classic; think funky heel not stiletto....

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1825 4th Street
Berkeley CA 94710

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-549-9195
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-6 Sun: 11-6

Tags: men's shoes, women's shoes

Rabat

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/rabat_noe_1_web.jpg

Reliable and steady may not sound complimentary, but Rabat proves that it can be the highest of compliments. If you ever want shoes in San Francisco, Rabat should be one of your first stops. Rabat reliably has a great collection of shoes from big and small designers. The shoes tend to be quirky yet classic; think funky heel not stiletto....

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
4001 24th Street
San Francisco CA 94114

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-282-7861
Hours: Mon-Fri: 10-6:30 Sat: 10-6 Sun: 11-5:30

Tags: men's shoes, women's shoes

Rabat

Reliable and steady may not sound complimentary, but Rabat proves that it can be the highest of compliments. If you ever want shoes in San Francisco, Rabat should be one of your first stops. Rabat reliably has a great collection of shoes from big and small designers. The shoes tend to be quirky yet classic; think funky heel not stiletto....

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1440 Burlingame Avenue
Burlingame CA 94010

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-650-558-0175
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-6 Sun: 11-5

Tags: men's shoes, women's shoes

Rabat

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/rabat_marina_1_web.jpg

Reliable and steady may not sound complimentary, but Rabat proves that it can be the highest of compliments. If you ever want shoes in San Francisco, Rabat should be one of your first stops. Rabat reliably has a great collection of shoes from big and small designers. The shoes tend to be quirky yet classic; think funky heel not stiletto....

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2080 Chestnut Street
San Francisco CA 94123

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-929-8868
Hours: Mon-Fri: 10:30-6:30 Sat: 10:30-6 Sun: 11-5:30

Tags: men's shoes, women's shoes

RAG

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/rag_1_web.jpg

San Francisco is not exactly known as a hot-bed of fashion design and production, but that doesn't mean there aren't still some talented designers eager to showcase their work. For these designers, there's RAG, or "Residents Apparel Gallery". The shop rents out rack space to up to 60 Bay Area designers to showcase...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
541 Octavia Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-621-7718
Hours: Mon-Sat: 12-7 Sun: 12-5

Tags: local designers, t-shirts, women's accessories, women's clothing

Rare Device

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/rare_device_1_web.jpg

We take a rare device to be an item of a certain utility that is unique and hard to find. And, at stocking these, Rare Device excels. Every corner of the cozy store is occupied with a rare device for some aspect of life, gorgeous wooden teacups here, quirky wall-mounted wine racks there, flirty sailor dresses here, sophisticated black leather...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1845 Market Street
San Francisco CA 94103

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-863-3969
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Thu: 12-7 Fri-Sat: 12-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: art, good for gifts, home accessories, women's accessories

Rasputin Music

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/rasputin_music_1_web.jpg

In lieu of the sanitized, homogenized look of corporate record stores, Rasputin Music prefers something a little more interesting. Posters, stickers and flyers cover the walls. Black shelves house new and used CDs of all genres, along with an ever-growing collection of DVDs. A vinyl section holds thousands of records, new and used, classic and...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2401 Telegraph Avenue
Berkeley CA 94704

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-800-350-8700
Hours: Mon: 10:30-10 Tue: 10-10 Wed-Thu: 10:30-10 Fri: 10:30-11 Sat: 10-11 Sun: 11-10

Tags: music, vinyl

Rasputin Music

In lieu of the sanitized, homogenized look of corporate record stores, Rasputin Music prefers something a little more interesting. Posters, stickers and flyers cover the walls. Black shelves house new and used CDs of all genres, along with an ever-growing collection of DVDs. A vinyl section holds thousands of records, new and used, classic and...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
15590 Hesperian Boulevard
San Lorenzo CA 94580

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-800-350-8700
Hours: Mon-Thu: 10:30-10 Fri-Sat: 10:30-11 Sun: 10:30-9

Tags: music, vinyl

Rasputin Music

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/rasputin_music_unionsquare_1_web.jpg

In lieu of the sanitized, homogenized look of corporate record stores, Rasputin Music prefers something a little more interesting. Posters, stickers and flyers cover the walls. Black shelves house new and used CDs of all genres, along with an ever-growing collection of DVDs. A vinyl section holds thousands of records, new and used, classic and...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
69 Powell Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-800-350-8700
Hours: Mon-Thu: 11-8 Fri-Sat: 11-9 Sun: 12-7

Tags: music, vinyl

Rasputin Music

In lieu of the sanitized, homogenized look of corporate record stores, Rasputin Music prefers something a little more interesting. Posters, stickers and flyers cover the walls. Black shelves house new and used CDs of all genres, along with an ever-growing collection of DVDs. A vinyl section holds thousands of records, new and used, classic and...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
5777 Mowry Avenue
Newark CA 94560

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-800-350-8700
Hours: Mon-Tue: 11-9 Wed-Sat: 11-10 Sun: 12-8

Tags: music, vinyl

Rasputin Music

In lieu of the sanitized, homogenized look of corporate record stores, Rasputin Music prefers something a little more interesting. Posters, stickers and flyers cover the walls. Black shelves house new and used CDs of all genres, along with an ever-growing collection of DVDs. A vinyl section holds thousands of records, new and used, classic and...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
920 Admiral Callaghan Lane
Vallejo CA 94591

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-800-350-8700
Hours: Mon-Thu: 11-8 Fri-Sat: 11-9 Sun: 12-7

Tags: music, vinyl

Rasputin Music

In lieu of the sanitized, homogenized look of corporate record stores, Rasputin Music prefers something a little more interesting. Posters, stickers and flyers cover the walls. Black shelves house new and used CDs of all genres, along with an ever-growing collection of DVDs. A vinyl section holds thousands of records, new and used, classic and...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1035 Contra Costa Boulevard
Pleasant Hill CA 94523

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-800-350-8700
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-10 Sun: 12-7

Tags: music, vinyl

Rayon Vert

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/rayon_vert_1_web.jpg

We might have passed by items like those in Rayon Vert a dozen times without taking a second look. Which explains why we'll never be able to open such a store. The shop, that was once more flower shop than home accessories shop and still does floral arrangements, has a knack for finding beautiful, often odd, objects and furnishings. These...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
3187 16th Street
San Francisco CA 94103

Phone: 1-415-861-3516

Tags: antiques, curiosities, flowers, vintage home accessories

Recycled Records

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/recycled_records_1_web.jpg

Something tells us that long after CDs take their place on the shelves of history, vinyl records will be alive and well. Recycled Records has been selling used vinyl since 1977 and today serves as a fascinating resource to collectors and passersby alike. The vinyl collection is focused on rock and jazz, carrying everything from rockabilly to...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1377 Haight Street
San Francisco CA 94117

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-626-4075
Hours: Mon-Fri: 10-8 Sat: 10-9 Sun: 11-7

Tags: music, vinyl

Red Hill Books

Phoenix, Dog Eared, and Red Hill Books represent a type of bookstore that's fast fading into extinction. They're big, lively, a bit messy and generally a good place to spend an hour or two. They're consummate hosts to a variety of community reading, music and poetry events. And they each have something that chains will never...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
401 Cortland Avenue
San Francisco CA 94110

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-648-5331
Hours: Mon-Thu: 9-8 Fri-Sat: 9-9 Sun: 9-8

Tags: books, used books

Rims & Goggles

Whether looking for simple, conservative wire-rimmed frames or colorful, even flamboyant plastic frames Rims & Goggles has the frame, or probably the dozen or so frames for you. The Bay Area eyewear shops bring in high-end, high-quality frames from Europe and adds in their own extensive line of frames that are handmade in the US.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
606 Strawberry Village
Mill Valley CA 94941

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-383-9480

Tags: eyewear

Rims & Goggles

Whether looking for simple, conservative wire-rimmed frames or colorful, even flamboyant plastic frames Rims & Goggles has the frame, or probably the dozen or so frames for you. The Bay Area eyewear shops bring in high-end, high-quality frames from Europe and adds in their own extensive line of frames that are handmade in the US.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
3568 Sacramento Street
San Francisco CA 94118

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-346-0304

Tags: eyewear

Rims & Goggles

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/rims_and_goggles_unionsquare_1_web.jpg

Whether looking for simple, conservative wire-rimmed frames or colorful, even flamboyant plastic frames Rims & Goggles has the frame, or probably the dozen or so frames for you. The Bay Area eyewear shops bring in high-end, high-quality frames from Europe and adds in their own extensive line of frames that are handmade in the US.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
445 Sutter Street
San Francisco CA 94108

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-397-6511

Tags: eyewear

Rose and Radish

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/rose_and_radish_1_web.jpg

Known for its dramatic, beautiful floral arrangements, Rose & Radish has turned its keen design sense to home design. Alongside flowers, their modern gallery space now presents an expertly curated collection of home accessories. From pristine white bone china from Germany to elegant glass candleholders from Italy, pretty hand-screened...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
460 Gough Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-864-4988
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Sat: 10-6 Sun: Closed

Tags: ceramics, children's accessories, design, flowers, home accessories, international, tableware, textiles

Scandinavian Details

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/scandinavian_details_1_web.jpg

Whether vintage, vintage reproduction, or new work, Scandinavian furniture designs have no shortage of stores dedicated to them. Scandinavian Details gives Scandinavian accessories their day in the sun. There are elegant glasswares, clever cookwares, chic pattern textiles, refined desk set and other a hundred some odd other accessories...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
364 Hayes Street
San Francisco CA

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-552-1100
Hours: Mon-Tue: 12-6 Wed-Sat: 12-7 Sun: 12-5

Tags: bathroom, design, home accessories, scandinavia, tableware, textiles

Scout

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/oakland/scout_1_web.jpg

Think reconnaissance, not cookies. Scout serves as your travel scout, visiting locales far and wide and bringing back a collection of delightful accessories, furnishings, crafts, art and random odds and ends. The mixture of in-house pillows and notebooks, one-of-a-kind vintage finds and a smattering of product drawn from the world over is sure...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
5550 College Avenue
Oakland CA 94618

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-510-547-2688

Tags: good for gifts, home accessories, international, vintage home accessories

Self Edge

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/self_edge_1_web.jpg

The phrase Self Edge might not mean anything to the average person, but to the denim aficionado it's like a secret password into a world where shuttle looms and indigo dye, warp and weft are points of discussion. Self Edge is the origin of the term "selvage" which refers to denim typically woven on narrower looms, that are then...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
714 Valencia Street
San Francisco CA 94110

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-558-0658
Hours: Mon-Sat: 12-7pm Sun 12-5pm

Tags: denim, japan, men's clothing

SF MOMA Store

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/sf_moma_store_1_web.jpg

The store of San Francisco's pride-and-joy museum is, by extension, rather well appointed. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art's (MOMA) store is stocked certainly with books and postcards of the art of display, but more interesting is the plethora of items, whether jewelry or watches, mobiles or lighting, stationery or toys that are...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
151 3rd Street
San Francisco CA 94103

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-357-4035 or 1-888-357-0037
Hours: Mon-Wed: 10-6:30 Thu: 10-9:30 Fri-Sun: 10-6:30

Tags: design, home accessories, modern, museum stores, women's accessories

Smash

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/smash_1_web.jpg

If you're feeling to old to wear neon sneakers but are too young to wear tasseled loafers, then you're probably just the right age for the shoes at Smash. The shoe shop has a selection of shoes, for difference purposes, that don't lean too young or old. The sneakers for men and women are fun but you won't look like a tool in...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2030 Chestnut Street
San Francisco CA 94123

Phone: 1-415-673-4736
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-6:30 Sun: 12-5

Tags: men's shoes, women's shoes

Spectacles for Humans

Reader Suggested: Our specialty is the best in eyewear today. No big shiny labels or brand names, for the most part, just small independent designers such as Orgreen, Mykita, Gotti+Niederer, Reiz Augenspiel, Martin&Martin, Masaki Matsushima, Funk Royal Optics and others. Derome Brenner's suns and acetate jewelry are out of this...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
3858 24th Street
San Francisco CA 94114

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-341-1909
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Fri: 11-7 Sat: 11-6 Sunday: 12-5

Tags: eyewear

Static

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/static_1_web.jpg

Navigating the minefield of polyester shirts with shark fins for collars, bell bottoms with flowery beading and ruffled, puffy armed tuxedo shirts, Static focuses on "modern vintage." That is, vintage clothing that does not look out of place next to today's hippest fashions. There are plenty of nice, everyday clothing such as...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1764 Haight Street
San Francisco CA 94117

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-422-0046
Hours: Mon-Thu: 12-7 Fri-Sat: 12-8 Sun: 12-7

Tags: vintage clothing

Super7

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/super_7_1_web.jpg

Who would know better what the hottest toys are, who the most talented designers and artists are, who to see about designing a mean looking T-shirt, than a store that's an arm of a magazine covering the world it inhabits. The Super7 store is just that. A side project of Super7 magazine, which covers Japanese toys, art and design, the shop...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1628 Post Street
San Francisco CA 94115

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-409-4700
Hours: Mon-Thu: 12-7 Fri: 12-8:30 Sat: 11-8:30 Sun: 11-7

Tags: art, japan, prints, toys, t-shirts, urban vinyl, vintage toys

Swallowtail

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/swallowtail_1_web.jpg

At Swallowtail expect to see a Louis XIV chair upholstered in a graffiti print fabric five feet away from a wingback in a traditional floral fabric, clean modern white ceramics a glance away from ornate vintage vases. In other words, expect the unexpected. The home accessories and furniture store presents a quirky, eclectic mix of antique...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2217 Polk Street
San Francisco CA 94109

Phone: 1-415-567-1555
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12-6

Tags: antiques, vintage home accessories

Tail of the Yak

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/tail_of_the_yak_1_web.jpg

It's almost impossible to describe Tail of the Yak. So it's probably best to just describe what's in it, the doves for example. Yes, real, peace and love doves live in a cage in the middle of the store. The store, a Berkeley institution, is a page from a fairy tale, and while the doves aren't for sale, paper whimsies, French...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2632 Ashby Avenue
Berkeley CA 94705

Phone: 1-510-841-9891
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-5:30 Sun: Closed

Tags: home accessories, paper goods

The Archive

Reader Suggested: This store is one of GQ's top 100 (men's) stores in the US.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
317 Sutter Street
San Francisco CA 94108

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-391-5550
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10:30-6:30 Sun: Closed

Tags: avant-garde, men's accessories, men's clothing

The Curiosity Shoppe

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/the_curiosity_shoppe_1_web.jpg

Curiosities are the objects that help turn a house into a home, an office into an personal workspace. And so we have The Curiosity Shoppe, one couple's guided tour of inspiring objects being made locally and around the world. Housewares, wearable accessories, kitchen knickknacks and books are all represented, a crafty, quirky aesthetic...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
855 Valencia Street
San Francisco CA 94110

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-671-5384
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: crafts, curiosities, home accessories, office

The Grocery Store

Taking the produce buying experience to new heights, The Grocery Store stocks all the latest European threads in its minimalist, warehouse space. Matching the stark surroundings, the clothes tend toward the sleek and the modern. You won't find any colorful prints, pastel colors or bold stripes. You will find striking, solid colored...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
311 Primrose Road
Burlingame CA 94010

Phone: 1-650-348-1372
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10-6 Sun: Closed

Tags: women's accessories, women's clothing

The Grocery Store

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/the_grocery_store_1_web.jpg

Taking the produce buying experience to new heights, The Grocery Store stocks all the latest European threads in its minimalist, warehouse space. Matching the stark surroundings, the clothes tend toward the sleek and the modern. You won't find any colorful prints, pastel colors or bold stripes. You will find striking, solid colored...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
3625 Sacramento Street
San Francisco CA 94118

Phone: 1-415-928-3615
Hours: Mon-Fri: 10:30-6:30 Sat: 10:30-6 Sun: Closed

Tags: women's accessories, women's clothing

Thousand Cranes

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/thousand_cranes_1_web.jpg

Most of us know futons as "college furniture". Enter Thousand Cranes, the Japanese futon shop. It seems in Japan futons are perfectly stylish and functional pieces of furniture. Thousand Cranes lets you pick a frame and match with a ridiculous number of different fabrics for coverings. But calling Thousand Cranes a futon shop would...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1803 4th Street
Berkeley CA 94710

Phone: 1-510-849-0501
Hours: Mon-Sun: 10-6

Tags: furniture, futons, home accessories, japan

Tre Balm

You know that friend, the one that always looks amazing (without a plastic surgeon)? And when you ask her what she's doing she casually mentions water and an un-pronounceable lotion. An avid traveler (with a rich husband), she uses the world as her cosmetics counter. Since we can't afford these extravagances (some old-fashioned idea...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
3255 Sacramento Street
San Francisco CA 94115

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-292-5129
Hours: Mon-Fri: 11-7 Sat: 9-5 Sun: 12-5

Tags: bath and body products, cosmetics

True Sake

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/true_sake_1_web.jpg

Billed at "America's First Sake Store" True Sake has made it its mission to educate the unwashed masses about this lovely, complex beverage. There are dozens upon dozens of pretty bottles to choose from but if you don't know the first thing about sake fear not. The staff is eager to educate.

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
560 Hayes Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-355-9555
Hours: Mon-Sat: 12-7 Sun: 11-6

Tags: foods and drinks, japan, sakes

Velvet da Vinci

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/velvet_da_vinci_1_web.jpg

Many a jewelry store fancies itself a "gallery", its wares "art", but Velvet Da Vinci is one of the few we've seen where this classification isn't the least bit of a stretch. The sparse space is dotted with cases filled with some of the most interesting, unique jewelry you'll ever see. Plastic, all sorts of...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2015 Polk Street
San Francisco CA 94109

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-441-0109
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Sat: 12-6 Sun: 12-4

Tags: art, jewelry

X21 Modern

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/x21_modern_1_web.jpg

X21 sure sounds like it could be a sci-fi movie, so then it's appropriate that the store looks like the warehouse of a movie production. Stocking a huge collection of antique and vintage furniture, accessories and and oddities, if you can get past the shock factor and take a good look around you'll find some beautiful pieces. Giant...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
890 Valencia Street
San Francisco CA 94110

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-647-4211
Hours: Mon-Thu: 12-6 Fri: 12-7 Sat: 12-8 Sun: 12-7

Tags: curiosities, vintage furniture, vintage home accessories

Zazu & Violets'

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/berkeley/zazu_and_violets_hats_1_web.jpg

We rarely feel nostalgic for the days of yore--no toothbrush, deodorant or vote. But, we can't help but feel some nostalgia for the accessories of yore--most especially hats. The few stores that sell hats tend to treat them as novelty items rather than legitimate accessories. Zazu & Violets' Hats is a true hat shop. This...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1790 Shattuck Avenue
Berkeley CA 94709

Phone: 1-510-845-1409
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Sat: 12-6 Sun: Closed

Tags: hats

Zinc Details

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/zinc_details_1_web.jpg

If you know anything about San Francisco, it's that a design store where everyone wears black turtlenecks will be a miserable failure. The owners of Zinc Details appreciate the wear flowers in you hair attitude of San Francisco. All you have to do is look in on the colorful items at Zinc Details to understand that this is not your ordinary...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
1905 Fillmore Street
San Francisco CA 94115

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-776-2100
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: design, home accessories, lighting, modern, vintage home accessories

Zinc Details

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/zinc_details_pachts_cali_1_web.jpg

If you know anything about San Francisco, it's that a design store where everyone wears black turtlenecks will be a miserable failure. The owners of Zinc Details appreciate the wear flowers in you hair attitude of San Francisco. All you have to do is look in on the colorful items at Zinc Details to understand that this is not your ordinary...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
2410 California Street
San Francisco CA 94115

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-776-9002
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11-7 Sun: 12-6

Tags: furniture, modern

Zonal

http://www.jargol.com/images/stores/us/ca/san_francisco/zonal_1_web.jpg

Zonal's antique furnishings are nicked and scratched because been around a long time, not because some designer was trying achieve a "distressed" look. That sort of honesty pervades all of the store's furnishings. Most present are the antique wooden furniture pieces like harvest tables, small rocking chairs, desks and...

» Full Details Open Link in New Window
Address:
538 Hayes Street
San Francisco CA 94102

Site: Official Site Open Link in New Window
Phone: 1-415-255-5307
Hours: Mon: Closed Tue-Sat:11-6 Sun: 12-5

Tags: antiques, country, furniture

Elsewhere

Sites

Blogs