best of polk street san francisco

Best of Polk Street

When in San Francisco I spend most of my time in my old neighborhood (visiting my sister): Russian Hill. Since moving from SF 6+ years ago now–which I can’t believe!–Polk Street, our main haunt for coffee and tacos has changed so much (in an exciting way). While most of my go-to’s are still there–Polk Street, between Pacific and Union has gotten so much cooler. Here’s where you can find me…

best of polk street san francisco

New Cool Kid on the Block | CAW or Craftsman and Wolves, known for “the rebel within,” a savory croissant with a soft cooked egg inside–although on this particular day I was craving something on the sweeter side. Bonus points for their cool coffee cups and plates (I want to steal them every time) and the moody dark interiors. I’m a sucker for black and gold when it comes to design.

Good for breakfast + brunch

best of polk street san francisco

best of polk street san francisco

Oldie but Goodie Neighborhood Corner Store | Cheese Plus. This is the best sandwich shop in all of Russian / Nob Hill. Perfect for afternoon picnics, or if you’re craving a sub and are too lazy to make one yourself. The Parma is my order of choice just about every time. Also, this is a great spot to pick up overpriced peonies for the apartment or as a last minute gift for a girlfriend when in route to her bday party.

Good for lunch, anytime

best of polk street san francisco

best of polk street san francisco

best of polk street san francisco

Best Consignment | Cris. I would stop into Cris a couple times a week on my neighborhood walks just to check if there were any Christian Louboutin’s in my size and to take a peek at the latest designer bags they got in that week. While it can be hit or miss, I’ve found many scores over the years.

Good for a post payday treat-yourself kinda afternoon

best of polk street san francisco

When you’re Craving Pizza | walk straight to Gioia. We went here recently with a group of 12 and it was the perfect spot to celebrate my cousin’s birthday. While the pizza is awesome, be sure to order a side of meatballs as well. They won’t disappoint.

Good for dinner (and groups)

best of polk street san francisco

For the Coffee Snob | Saint Frank. This newer kid on the block is usually filled with techie’s on laptops so unfortunately it’s not always great for meetings, but if you’re lucky enough to snag a table outside that’s ideal.

Good for a morning / afternoon pick-me-up

best of polk street san francisco

The Look | See by Chloé Sweater (also here). R13 Jeans. Isabel Marant Boots (also cute for summer). Céline Sunglasses. Mansur Gavriel Bucket Bag (next on my wish-list).

Additional Polk Street Go-To’s:

Blue Barn | Mega salads (I can rarely ever finish one) packed full of all the good stuff. The greek combo (add salmon and avocado) is so yum.

Polkers | The breakfast go-to for our group of friends after a night of drinking. Now, my guy and I head here before the crowds (anytime before 10am) and you can walk right in.

Nick’s Crispy Tacos | For those taco cravings and perfect for meeting up with large groups. Also, they cater which is awesome to keep in mind for parties!

Parlor Mini Spa | Technically this one is past Union Street, but I’ve included because this new kid on the block is now the cutest mani / pedi bar in the neighborhood. RIP the old Milk+.

Photography | Emily Scott


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