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Haight Street (Upper and Lower)
Good coffee, killer sausages, thrift store gems, and shoes galore...
- 5000
- 2219
- Elite ’24
67 Places
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Jessica’s 5-star review: Hobson's Choice has always felt right. I have spent many nights here at one of their front tables, looking out onto Haight Street - catching up with local or visiting friends. Hobson's Choice is special. From their big punch bowls, to their laid back vibe, to their big glass windows that invite you in for a mellow night. It's the kind of bar that you could wander into - by yourself (which I used to do regularly when I first moved back to SF,) - and never feel out of place. It's the kind of bar - where I've always felt safe. The staff have always been personable and fun (the owner Chris is fantastic), and the crowd is a great mixture of neighborhood regulars and interesting tourists. I'm a firm believer that you need to support and visit the businesses that you enjoy visiting. A couple of weeks ago - I was walking down Haight Street and I meant to stop into Hobson's Choice. I don't really drink - and I had an armful of groceries - so I decided not to in the end. I wish I had now. There are recent rumors that Hobson's Choice may be closing. I sincerely hope that is not the case. It's too special of a place, and it carries too many memories for so many. If you have not yet had a chance to step into this low key spot - please do. Grab a friend, loved one, or co-worker and make your way over to Haight Street. Trust. -
Jessica’s 4-star review: After emerging from the oasis that is the Hippie Hill - onto Stanyan and Haight today I met the most precious adorable puppy in front of McDonald's. A fiesty, six week old beauty with soft black fur, and chocolate brown eyes that smiled as she tried to chew on...well pretty much everything around her. Her name - Wet Dream. Yup - that was seriously her name. Apparently - her doggie dad was named Nightime. And her doggie mom was named Dreamer - and their quirky owner thought it would be fun to combine the two names - ever so creatively. Anyways - while browsing the stores on Haight - I popped into Cheap Thrills -and figured I'd pick up a teething toy for sassy WD. I asked the woman behind the counter - if she had any safe dog toys - that would be appropriate for a puppy. She thought hard and went searching around the store - until she picked up a genius glow-in-the-dark squeaky toy - that was just the right size for WD to grab onto. Being that it was under 10 dollars, I asked if she had a card minimum. She assured me that there was no minimum. I still felt guilty charging such a small amount, so took the opportunity to browse around the store for a couple of minutes. Cheap Thrills is packed with fun little gag gifts and quirky finds. Everything from vintage looking pin-up card carrying cases, to hand buzzers, to punk looking T-shirts and socks. Their selection seems very similar to a number of other stores in the the Haight, but being that it's a large store and the owner is so nice and helpful - I prefer coming here over the other less-friendly and less spacious stores in the hood. WD was passed out asleep on her owner's lap when I made my way back towards the park, so I just handed her present to her appreciative owner. But I'm sure her tiny growing teeth have just as much love for Cheap Thrills. Trust. -
Jessica’s 5-star review: I will always have a wealth of appreciation for Ben and Jerry's. Especially this location, for a variety of reasons: 1.) Jerry went to Oberlin. (http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-177912901.html) Nough said. 2.) I love all of the artwork associated with Ben and Jerry's. 3.) The tipping bell here is genius. Though I've seen many a shy server blush as some lame-o throws in a nickel - and they have to ring the darn bell in order to acknowledge the gesture. 4.) Waffle cones. 5.) Thick, can barely make it up the straw - shakes 6) Unreal moist brownie sundaes, topped with smooth chocolate syrup. 7.) Creative ice-cream flavor names. 8.) The leisurely walk down Haight street with my melting mound of frozen milk glory (familiar Haight smells go nicely with ice-cream) 9.) Cherry Garcia Ice-cream. 10.) Even better - Cherry Garcia Frozen Yogurt. Trust. (http://www.yelp.com/events/san-francisco-free-cone-day---ben-and-jerrys---tues-4-21-09-12-8pm) -
Jessica’s 3-star review: Phuket brings out the immature elementary schooler.....well actually more like middle schooler in all of us. Phonetically - the name is a blast. But...as a restaurant - Phuket's just decent. They fooled me with the vegetarian headline right by their name. Once inside, I found that their vegetarian menu was pretty limited, but that being said, I'm sure they could have whipped anything up on the menu with tofu and it would have worked - so not a huge deal. The server was friendly and quick. I asked what he recommended on the vegetarian menu. He pointed out a tofu peanut dish. I ordered it. When he brought it out, I found the dish to be pretty mediocre. It was filling and tasty, but nothing I would rave over, especially for the OK price. Phuket Thai is pretty close, and the service great, so I could see myself picking up an order in the future, but I think I'd have to sample some different things on the menu before giving a higher rating.
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Jessica’s 4-star review: I grew up playing soccer, and still have the calves to prove it. As a result my calves, have taken on quite an ego. They're bold and stubborn, and often don't fit into the skinny constricting boots that I find at most stores. It's a painful situation, being that I adore the look of sassy knee high shoes. So when I randomly decided to browseVillains shoe department, I was excited to discover their "Irregular Choice" boots. They're unique, comfortable (only have the slightest of heel), they fit over my calves with ease, and even better - they're great paired with skinny jeans tucked into them. Oh and where once homeless people used to sing Flo Rida songs to me when I used to sport my Uggs, I now get solid genuine compliments on my Wrap "Irregular Choice: boots from random passerbys and strangely....security guards. -
Jessica’s 3-star review: I know they have incredible things here. I've actually bought a beautiful turquoise coat here in the past, but there's just something about this place that never makes me feel quite comfortable. Something which never really makes me want to try things on. Decades of Fashion has a museum-like quality about it. It's vast collection of unique fashion pieces from different eras is exciting and well worth checking out, but I always feel like it's a bit of an ordeal to try things on here and the price-tag is always just a bit higher than I'd like to pay. If you're in the area - and want to check out some well curated fashion pieces - I am sure Decades of Fashion will have a slew. If you're looking for a vintage store with a more laid-back and accessible vibe - then I'd recommend checking out some others on Haight street. Trust. -
Jessica’s 3-star review: I'd much rather hold out for cheaper and better fitting underwear in the mall than make another unproductive venture out to Iris. While they do carry some cute underwear and bra sets, they often have limited sizes for each selection, and what they do have out on display is pricey. Fourteen dollars for one pair of simple basic underwear - when you can get 3 or 4 for probably the same amount downtown - just doesn't seem worth it to me. Especially when the service isn't all that helpful. I have to say that I may be an official Victoria Secret convert. Their prices are right, the selection is right, and their customer service is on point. Trust.
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Jessica’s 4-star review: It's nice to have an arts and crafts store in this area. Very appropriate. Especially for those sunny 'green' days, when the creative juices are flowing and you have the urge to get down to some messy glue coated collages, to paint your bed, make some clothes...etc. Though Mendel's paint and art selection could be bigger, they don't tout themselves as a be-all art store, and they continue to be a solid option for most whimsical artistic fancies... ...and if you splurge enough - they'll even give you a handy tote. -
Jessica’s 4-star review: The bus drove by what used to be Bang-On yesterday and I had to do a double take. Bang-On was one of those stores that you could so easily take for granted. It had been in the Haight Street area for over 11 years - helping make custom gifts for friends, fun outfits for Bay to Breakers, and helping me - personally immortalize Paul Newman in a series of iron-on shirts. It makes me sad that I didn't stop in here more often (once American Apparel closed down next door - their clothes options for printing - became limited). It makes me sad - that stores like this are having trouble surviving here in San Francisco. It makes me sad that so many vintage iron-ons that I've amassed over the years - just waiting for the right moment for me to take them to Bang-On - will remain hidden in my drawer. Trust. -
Jessica’s 4-star review: I've always thought and found this place to be just another one of those over-priced Haight stores. But the other day on closer examination - I was impressed to find that Ideele actually carries alot of affordable clothes as well. While they have plentry pairs of jeans that are well over 100 dollars, they also carry just as cute pairs for 30-40 dollars. I recently bought two pairs of jeans: a cute tight elastic skinny pair of dark demin jeans, and a wide-legged form fitting pair of hip huggers. I've received a plethora of compliments on each, and can't help, but glow whenever I disclose the actual price for each pair. Just be warned though that that some of their cheaper darker demin washes may rub off on some of your other clothing. Be extra careful when washing them, and putting them anywhere near white clothes, even before you wash them. -
Jessica’s 5-star review: Sadly the short lived free art classes are no longer going on. But RVCA (I've now learned is actually pronounced R-U-C-A rather than RVCA) should still be a must stop for anyone walking down street. Why? 1.)They carry a plethora of local artists and designers 2.) The back room is often used as an art gallery, showcasing innovative art-work 3.) The employees are easy on the eyes 4.) They carry great stuff 5.) They play cool music 6.) And the final reason of why RVCA rocks so hard.... (Travis Barker drum roll).... (Anti-shoppers (ie: other halves forced into a Haight Street shopping extravaganza) should listen hard to this vital extract of quality info....) The final reason why RVCA rocks the hardcore... is that RVCA carries an on point assortment of FREE. Yes Free. FREE art and design magazines at the front of their store. The good kind too. The kind you'll want to leave out on your coffee table or cut up and paste all over your bathroom or refrigerator. The last time I was in here I walked out with a free VICE and ANPQ (RVCA's new unique (def. unique) quarterly magazine) magazine. Perfect accessories for those who'd rather plop down on a random spot in some store (ie: most people who come out shopping with me) and read - rather than buy random stuff which you hardly wear (ie:me) -
Jessica’s 4-star review: I used to be alot more comfortable wearing shorter belly-button revearling shirts. But part of really delving into my early twenties - and moving away from my midriff middle school past, involves finding shirts that not only are able to enhance my figure - but also do a good job of covering it up. And as there was in the beginning.... or at least at the beginning of Haight Street. There's Eve. Eve can easily appear to be much of the muchness of Haight Street, but if you really take the time to study their clothes - you'll find an assortment of fashionable well priced items. You'll find wrap-around stretchy cardigansthat cover and hold in eveything. You'll find decently priced butt hugging jeans. Cute sassy hats. Darling dresses. And many more tantalizing golden apples to feast upon. -
Jessica’s 4-star review: Cosy, cheap, and damn good. On Friday, the Upper Haight's restaurants all boast long lines. Citrus Club, the Alembic, and others are swamped with hungry pre-gaming patrons. If you're looking for a nice alternative without the line - try Ploy II. Fairly hidden, with minimal signing, Ploy feels like you're dining in someone's home. Essentially you are. They've reconstructed an old victorian and transformed it into a solid Thai restaurant. We only had a five minute wait and they seated us right by the window so we could see all of the random Haight drama while we dined. I ordered the cashew tofu, and finished each bite. Messily spooning the sauce onto my rice, well after all of the tofu and veggies were gone. The cashews cooked within a spicy chili sweet sauce and lightly fried tofu and fresh vegetables were superb. With rice for everyone and even an appetizer, we were wowed, when the total for each person came out to be about 10 dollars per person (including tip!) One of the best Thai spots in the Haight. The menu is extensive and everything tastes - just made. I'd highly recommend browsing through some of the regular patron yelp reviews before going though. Their menu is so overwhelming, that some sure thing Yelp recommended dishes could easily slide Ploy II into a secure standing as a stand-out dinner or lunch spot in the Haight.
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Jessica’s 5-star review: Classic pin-up lingerie for real women. Lacy, silkiness that falls beautifully on hips and ass-ets. Dollhouse Bettie is a true treasure and lovely addition to the Haight. My favorite experience here was shopping for Britney Spears' "Gimme More" outfit with/and for my guy friend for Halloween. The staff went above and beyond the call of duty - trying to find affordable, lacy bras for my friend - that would fit comfortably, and were authentic to Britney's essence. One of the owners spent a good couple of minutes hunting down sexy black thigh-highs, and kept on pointing out sales items throughout our time there. My friend ended up with the perfect outfit. He got a pair of cute bottoms, a supportive bra, and some HOT tights. He easily could have been Britney's double, minus the glazed over look from the VMA's. -
Jessica’s 4-star review: I can't afford half of the stuff in here, but that doesn't make it any less wonderful. Villains Vault is where I'd go if I wanted to dish out about 200 dollars on jeans. They have a huge selection of diverse denim. Denim that will make any girl or boy yelp. Hard. Their sales rack in the back is well worth checking out. The stuff is still very pricey, but you can usually walk away with a bargain if you look hard enough. The staff are the best part of Villains Vault. Like at Villains, they'll make sure to walk you through the jeans process, getting sizes and washes that you may be interested in, while giving you an honest opinion on each pair that you try. I swear my heart skipped a beat, as I passed by some light grainy washed Kasils on the way out. -
Jessica’s 3-star review: After a crazy sweaty night at Vertigo, we stopped to grab a bite at Mythic. Thinking I was the smarter of the bunch, I went next door to Love N Haight and ordered a huge sandwich drooling with sprouts. But as soon as I caught a whiff of the freshly made slices from Mythic, I knew I'd made a mistake. My bf relucantly let me have a bite of his, and I have to say for late night food options, Mythic is by far, one of the best in the area. I could actually taste the toppings, the crust was doughy (the way I like it) and cheesy slice was piping steam. I'm planning on birthing an additional star to this review - once I get a big slice just to myself. -
Jessica’s 4-star review: Since returning to this quaint spot - I find myself bypassing their chocolates and just sticking to their drinks. Their chocolate pudding drink is strangely addictive. And interestingly enough - vegan. I sat in here the other day, after a long day of contemplating - and just spooned the thick dark chocolatey goo into my mouth. I suggest you try it yourself one day. Though it's a little unusual at first - I promise that it will get better and that much more delicious with each meditative bite. Trust. -
Jessica’s 4-star review: It comforts me to know that I can walk down Haight Street a couple of years from now and this place will probably still be around. One of SF's oldest smoke shop - Pipe Dreams has been open for over 27 years selling a slew of pipes, hookahs, and more. Sometimes I'll even go out of my way to just buy a simple lighter in here; making sure I do my part to keep this Haight street 'landmark' around for another 27. -
Jessica’s 3-star review: me" "Uh, some guy just touched my butt." friend: "Uh like five guys just touched my butt, I mean look at this place!" Eugh, Madrone is a bump fest. Though a cute, and well decorated space, it is not equipped for as many people as they cram into it. And there is nothing worse than staring around you, moving side to side, or rather pushed side to side, so drunk pushy girls, and their bewildered boyfriends, can make their way to a non-existent dance-floor to do their wasted flailing - ie: dancing. It's at moments like these, that I yearn to catch a bus to the Upper Haight. I crave a different bar, where I can hear myself talk, and don't have to contribute to the faint wrinkle lines emerging on my forehead, as a result of way too much eyebrow raising. And I'm sure some of the DJs must be good, but the last time I went, they didn't even get a booty wiggle from me. They skipped from song to song, without smooth transitions. It was painful. Three stars, because the art on the walls is pretty cool, and on a slow night - Madrone is actually a decent spot, but save yourself a trip here on the weekends. Madrone isn't worth those extra cologne and perfume sprays - unless you enjoy awkward sweaty crowds. -
Jessica’s 1-star review: I've never actually had anything dry-cleaned here, but everytime I attempt to, the women that work here are usually very rude and unhelpful. I tried to get a zipper here fixed on a pair of pants - and they were going to charge me 7 dollars for a zipper that was too big; and I would have to sew it on by myself. A huge rip-off. My roommates have had some stuff cleaned here, and found it expensive, and were not very impressed with the service. It's convenient; but you have to be ready to yell and argue with the woman at the desk. I'll pass.
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Jessica’s 5-star review: I ended up getting those earrings this weekend. They're absolutely stunning. I love them. The way they dazzle. The way they hang. Sadly though- what prompted my return visit here - is that Offbeat was having a big sale - because they are unfortunately going out of business. Offbeat will be open up to the holidays and continuing to offer big discounts - so I highly suggest you supporting this unique store - as soon as possible. Check out their truly exceptional and beautiful jewelry and items - before they are no longer gracing Haight Street with their presence. Trust.
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Jessica’s 4-star review: I have tried to resist this place for awhile now. I run in. I run back out. Whew. That was close. But Ambiance has been pulling out some sharp punches lately. I've been noticing more of their sale items. I've been lured in by their shoes. their colors. their jeans. And the sales-ladies are always welcoming. Damn it. Ambiance is too good. Too cunning. Too well stocked. And that is why... today...when I was SUPPOSED to be getting rid of my clothes at Crossroads and Goodwill. I made the dreaded mistake of trying the whole run in, run out thing at Ambiance. Only to not run out. (despite wearing my Lululemon pants and everything) and instead walk out, with three pairs of shoes. I wasn't even looking for shoes. (Such is the cunning nature of Ambiance.) I spent the rest of the day pacing around my room in my spectacularly comfortable size 10 heels.... looking for batteries for my camera so I could take pictures of them. trying to find room in my closet for them. trying to find outfits that would complement them I dedicated 4 hours to these pairs of shoes. I am obsessed with them. Ambiance has turned me into a shoe obsessed freak. This is not good. And So.....I am thankful that I have to wake up at 6:00 tomorrow to blow up balloons for Bay to Breakers...or I'd be attempting the run in/run out thing tomorrow morning at Ambiance once again. Only to walk out with three-on-sale-dresses. three-on-sale pairs of earrings, And another pair of shoes, to go with my SPECTACULAR three pairs. Which would mean more hours pacing, more hours of looking for batteries for my camera (it eats up batteries), more closet cleaning, more clothes sorting, more...... more.... more... If you step into Ambiance, be prepared. It's claws are sharp and fashionable. It's shoes are colorful and most are comfortable.You must be prepared to RUN!!!!!!!! in. And Run out. PS. If you're already in too deep - be sure to try their Kenzie shoes. AMAZING. They cushion arches, and if you're like me and have trouble embracing heels, Kenzie's will woo you. -
Jessica’s 3-star review: I used to sleep in my hoop earrings. I felt naked without them dangling from my earlobes. Despite them perpetually getting caught in sweaters and scarves - I insisted on wearing them all the time. Haight Jewelry was my go-to hoop spot here in San Francisco - after many a pair suffered a tragic fate. Since moving onto feather earrings - I haven't sported a pair of hoops in years. But since adopting my new gym bunny persona - feathers just don't seem as practical. I decided that it was time to stop into familiar Haight Jewelry for some hoop love. There wasn't much hoop love to be had. The same owner was there, and when I asked him about his hoops - he showed me a selection of thin flimsy looking sterling silver hoops. Gone were his past selection of solid bold hoops that announced themselves proudly from beneath my red hair. I looked at the prices of each. Each pair was almost fifty dollars. Far from cheap and far from the prices that I used to pay. I decided that perhaps I'm no longer a hoop girl and walked out with bare earlobes. Trust. -
Jessica’s 4-star review: I'm not a fan of everything at American Apparel - but I know that every year - I will definitely be dropping some cash at American Apparel. American Apparel is seriously one of the best go-to stores for basics for nearly any and every occasion. You can get thigh high striped socks. Faded light blue cotton vintage wash shirts. Perfectly crisp business shirts. Thick cinching belts. Comfortable underwear. Just the right length and stretch - 'tank tops.' Light breezy cotton dresses. Jumpsuits. Shiny leggings. "Fanny packs." Baby soft lined fleece hoodies. Headbands. Scarves. Leggings. Bathing Suits. Leotards. Etc....etc.... Yeah their ad campaign can be in your face. Yeah some of their prices can make my face scrunch up. But when it comes down to it - American Apparel has what you need. It's quality. And there are certain articles that you can get here - that if you dress up right with the key accessories - will receive a slew of "Where'd you get that?!" compliments. Also - I have always liked the staff here. Today they offered up advice on all of my items - and I could swear that one of the girls working here today used to be on TV (America's Next Model or some show like that). I always find their sizing to be different and varied for many of their items - so def. make sure to try EVERYTHING on. EVERYTHING. -
Jessica’s 3-star review: Wearing my new rock T-shirt, I was excited to hit up some quintessential trendy LA spots and hopefully spot some celebrities to add to my two previous sightings at Sunset Junction. Magnolia did not disappoint. I loved the dark lighting, the big tables and booths, and the bar area looked very impressive and chic with carefully placed bar glow. The bartenders only added to the hip 'tude with their LA cute style, sporting spiked hair, a "I only half care" look, and tattoos poking out from their rolled up sleeves. Service was great: quick, friendly, and a spoonful of celebrity. Just the way I like it. The much talked about mac and cheese was decent, I've actually cooked better and I'm cooking impaired. I felt it could have had more bite, so I added my own with generous doses of "cock sauce". My turkey burger was a disappointment. The burger patty was heavy and hard to digest and I ended up leaving most of it, eating the bread roll around it. Desserts, however were unbelievable and ended the meal perfectly. The molten chocolate cake oozed lovely chocolate goodness onto the whole plate, the creme brulee's sugar top cracked perfectly and was light and fluffy, and the mint chocolate chip ice-cream cookie concoction (hard to mess up) was perfect - the cookie soft and chewy. If I was to come again, I'd probably get something lighter, try a drink or two, and save the rest of the room for dessert. -
Jessica’s 5-star review: It's been awhile since my last review of the Gold Cane and thankfully my budding interest in Irish Car Bombs stopped years ago. My now preferred drink of choice is water... nothing beats getting super hydrated on a weekday night. I've always been a fan of the Gold Cane. The energy is always genuine and it's never too crowded. The scene is just easy. Their outdoor patio is one of my favorite aspects about this place. It's nothing fancy - but being able to enjoy fresh air and a robust full moon on a mellow night is a lovely thing on a weekday night in the Haight. Trust. -
Jessica’s 4-star review: This is where I'm getting all of my christmas presents. Bohemian cheese- cloth scarves, wooden earrings, flowing shirts, fleece lined leg-warmers, and a ton of other reasonably priced finds. A new addition to Lower Haight with a ton of potential. Unique colorful funky clothing and accessories from all over. A fun place to browse on San Francisco foggy days. -
Jessica’s 5-star review: On a day like today - Amoeba is the perfect destination. Cruising through Golden Gate park with the revelry of Hippie Hill slowly fading behind you - there is something oh so beautiful about emerging from Golden Gate Park and seeing the neon Amoeba sign. Browsing through old records and thumbing through Vetiver and Bonnie Prince Billy, there is nothing more satisfying than buying an epic record at Amoeba and taking it proudly home to spin on the record player. All. Night. Long. Trust. -
Jessica’s 2-star review: The woman that helped me here was great and really friendly - but the pad thai was pretty bland and gross. The noodles seemed to have more grease than sauce, and the vegetables weren't as well cooked as they could have been. I only had the pad-thai here, but pad thai's are usually a good judge of a Thai restaurant, and I was not impressed. -
Jessica’s 5-star review: Latest purchases here - 1.) working harmonica necklace 2.) Oscar De La Renta scarf for three dollars 3.) butter soft Diesel leather black trench-coat. Four points of advice for Wasteland: 1.) Take the time to browse. And more importantly - make sure to enjoy it. If you just rush in and out - you're seriously missing out. 2.) If you see something you like - act fast and buy it. It probably won't be there next time if you don't. 3.) Take advantage of the photo-booth at the back of the store (I still have yet to do so) 4.) If something looks too small, and you're having trouble getting it over your head - just forget about it. I've learned the hard way that it won't magically get any bigger .
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