Hayes & Octavia
Guardian Photo by Brandon Joseph Baker
Hayes Valley, the Mission's younger, more sophisticated sister, is known for blending San Francisco's hip, funky style with an upscale sensibility. Given its haute couture for shoppers, chic culinary fare for Civic Center culturati, and unusual furnishings for homeowners, it's no surprise that this growing neighborhood draws all types.
Muni: 21 Hayes
Propeller
As fun for browsing as it is for buying, this whimsical interior design store is a beacon of "only in San Francisco" gift ideas for the modernist with a sense of humor. The everchanging stock of beautiful, interesting, and functional items seem made for the pages of Dwell . Nothing here comes cheap, but nothing's cheaply made either.
555 Hayes. (415) 701-7767, www.propellermodern.com
Miette Confiserie
A classic candy store for kids with eclectic taste, Miette is cute, fanciful, and a bit precious in its decor and its stock of sugary delights. Apothecary jars filled with imported sweets, salt-water taffy, and Dutch licorice are a feast for the eyes; while handmade cotton candy, adorable cupcakes, and even bacon-flavored lollipops will tickle even the most fickle taste buds.
449 Octavia. (415) 626-6221, www.miette
Blue Bottle Coffee Co.
It's generally accepted that this Oakland-based company's coffee is the best of the Bay. Their dedication to fresh roasting and one-cup-at-a-time brewing impresses coffee snobs and tea devotees alike. Plus, there's no denying the charm of their Hayes Valley kiosk, the grown-up lemonade stand that serves as a caffeinated reward for wandering up the alley south of Hayes. Just don't ask for pumpkin latte.
315 Linden. (415) 252-7535, www.bluebottlecoffee.net
RAG - Residents Apparel Gallery
Embracing San Francisco's unusual style and DIY spirit, this surprisingly diverse boutique stocks the finest and funkiest in local designers' clothes, bags, hats, and jewelry for men, women, and kids. Most items are reasonably priced - especially since you'll never see anyone in your hometown wearing the same watch-cog cufflinks or hand-knit fingerless gloves you bought here.
541 Octavia. (415) 621-7718, www.ragsf.com
Modern Tea
This unpretentious, cozy restaurant café lives up to its name with an expansive, exotic tea list complemented by simple, satisfying food. It's the perfect place for brunch (try the salmon hash) or an afternoon shopping break - and the menu's pleasing to veggies and vegans too.
602 Hayes. (415) 626-5406, www.moderntea.com
Sebo
Fresh, seasonal, phenomenal fish sets this minimalist, modern sushi restaurant apart from its many Bay Area competitors. Don't expect fancy rolls or even many seafood alternatives - this is the place where sushi connoisseurs drop beaucoup bucks on seafood in its pure, unadulterated form, washed down with an impressive selection of sakes. (If sashimi scares you, do your high-end dining down the block at Absinthe instead.)
517 Hayes. (415) 864-2122
