San Francisco City Guide

Ready to explore the city by the bay? San Francisco is a vibrant and eclectic city with so much to offer, from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the colorful neighborhoods and delicious food scene. In this city guide, we'll show you the best places to visit, eat, and play in Revea’s home city. You do know we have an SF storefront, right? Let’s grab our walking shoes and explore San Francisco together!

Top San Francisco Stays

When it comes to places to stay during your San Fran visit, there are plenty of hotels to choose from. Here are five of our favorites. 

Tilden Hotel: A trendy boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown San Francisco, the Tilden Hotel has a hipster vibe and retro-chic design. Its prime location near popular attractions and sustainable practices makes it an appealing option for travelers looking to experience the city in a unique and stylish way.

SF Proper: A chic and modern luxury hotel situated in a historic flatiron building, the SF Proper’s interior design is a stunning blend of vintage and contemporary elements, featuring colorful and eclectic decor. Guests can enjoy the hotel's rooftop bar and restaurant with sweeping views of the city, as well as its prime location in the trendy Mid-Market neighborhood. For an upscale and sophisticated stay for travelers seeking a stylish and memorable experience in San Francisco, the SF Proper is a great choice.

The Line: A stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of San Francisco’s bustling Mid-Market neighborhood, The Line offers a range of amenities including a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city, a coffee shop, and a restaurant serving California cuisine. The hotel features modern and eclectic design elements, with a focus on local art and culture. Its prime location makes it a popular choice for travelers looking to explore the city's vibrant cultural scene, with easy access to attractions like the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the War Memorial Opera House. 

Hotel Kabuki: A boutique hotel in Japantown, Hotel Kabuki features a blend of Japanese and Western elements, with a focus on minimalism and comfort. The rooms are spacious and stylishly decorated, featuring Japanese-style soaking tubs and modern amenities. The hotel also features a Japanese garden courtyard and a fitness center. Its central location offers easy access to Japantown's many shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.  

Nobu Palo Alto: A luxurious boutique hotel located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Nobu Palo Alto features elegant and modern design elements, with a focus on Japanese-inspired minimalism and comfort. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, featuring high-end amenities like Nespresso machines and luxury bedding. Nobu Palo Alto also boasts a rooftop pool and bar with stunning views of the surrounding area, as well as an on-site restaurant serving exquisite Japanese cuisine. Its prime location offers easy access to the many businesses and tech companies of Silicon Valley, as well as local attractions like Stanford University and the Stanford Shopping Center. 

Top Shops in San Francisco

Get your shopping bags ready because we’ve rounded up the best places in San Fran to shop for fashion, souvenirs, and everything in between! 

Revea: Our Revea San Francisco Lab is our first and only storefront. Stop in for an in-person skin consultation, get to know your skin on a deeper level, and meet our team of expert skin advisors! 

General Store: A unique retail concept that offers a curated selection of handmade goods, art, and clothing from local artists and designers, the General Store features a rustic and eclectic interior, with a focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing. Visitors can find everything from vintage clothing and accessories to handcrafted pottery and home goods. The store also hosts regular events and workshops, providing a space for the local community to connect and create.

Queens Superette: A trendy and hip corner store located in the heart of the city’s Lower Nob Hill neighborhood, Queens Superette features a carefully curated selection of artisanal and gourmet products, including specialty snacks, craft beer and wine, and locally sourced produce. In addition to its grocery offerings, Queens Superette also boasts a popular sandwich counter, serving up delicious and inventive sandwiches made with high-quality ingredients. The store's laid-back and welcoming atmosphere makes it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, providing a refreshing alternative to traditional chain grocery stores. 

Chinatown: Located in the heart of the city, this bustling neighborhood offers a unique and vibrant shopping experience. Visitors can explore a wide range of shops, selling everything from traditional Chinese goods like tea and spices to souvenirs. The narrow streets and colorful storefronts create a lively and bustling atmosphere, and visitors can also find plenty of authentic Chinese restaurants and street vendors selling delicious food. Shopping in Chinatown in San Francisco is a great way to immerse yourself in the city's cultural heritage and experience something truly unique.

March: Offering a curated selection of kitchenware, home decor, and artisanal food products from around the world, March’s elegant and minimalist interior creates a serene and inviting atmosphere, with an emphasis on quality and craftsmanship. Visitors can find everything from handcrafted ceramics and linens to premium olive oils and exotic spices. The store also offers cooking classes and workshops, providing a space for foodies and home chefs to learn and connect. 

Metier: A luxury boutique offering a stunning selection of high-end fashion and accessories from some of the world's most sought-after designers, Metier features an elegant and minimalist interior, showcasing a carefully curated collection of clothing, shoes, and accessories for both men and women. The store is known for its impeccable taste and attention to detail, offering a personalized shopping experience for discerning customers. And, its selection ranges from timeless and classic pieces to the latest cutting-edge fashion, ensuring there is something for every style and taste.

Flora Grubb Gardens: A unique and beautifully planted nursery located in San Francisco's Bayview neighborhood, Flora Grubb Gardens offers a vast selection of high-quality plants and garden supplies, including succulents, tropical plants, and air plants. The nursery's stunning and imaginative displays showcase plants in unique and creative ways, inspiring visitors to get creative with their own gardens. The store also offers a range of gardening classes and workshops, providing visitors with the knowledge and skills they need to create their own beautiful home gardens. 

Top San Francisco Sips 

Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy cup of coffee or a refreshing cocktail, we've got you covered with our list of the best places to grab a drink in San Fran.

Wrecking Ball: Known for its excellent coffee and cozy atmosphere, this coffee shop features a minimalist and modern interior, with an emphasis on sustainability and ethical sourcing. Their coffee is sourced from some of the best roasters around the country and is expertly brewed by highly skilled baristas. Visitors can enjoy a range of coffee drinks, from classic espresso to innovative and creative seasonal specials. Wrecking Ball also offers a selection of delicious pastries and baked goods, providing the perfect accompaniment to your coffee. 

Tartine Manufactory: A highly acclaimed bakery and restaurant located in the Mission District of San Francisco, Tartine Manufactory is known for its delectable pastries, breads, and savory dishes. Its airy and spacious interior features a bustling open kitchen, a coffee bar, and a retail section that carries artisanal pantry items. The menu changes frequently, showcasing seasonal ingredients and a commitment to sustainable sourcing. 

Trouble Coffee Company: A small but beloved coffee shop located in San Francisco's Outer Sunset neighborhood, Trouble Coffee Company is known for its simple yet delicious menu and laid-back atmosphere, and has become a destination for coffee lovers seeking a unique and authentic experience. Their signature drink, the "coconut latte," is made with fresh coconut water and espresso, and has gained a cult following among regulars. The shop also offers a selection of pastries and toasts topped with homemade cinnamon sugar and coconut butter. With its eclectic decor and welcoming vibe, Trouble Coffee Company embodies the bohemian spirit of San Francisco's Outer Sunset.

Ritual Coffee: A specialty coffee company based in San Francisco, with multiple locations across the city, Ritual Coffee is known for its commitment to quality and sustainability, sourcing its coffee beans from small, independent farmers around the world. The company roasts its coffee in small batches to ensure maximum flavor and freshness and offers a range of brewing methods, including pour-over, French press, and espresso. In addition to its exceptional coffee, Ritual is also renowned for its sleek and modern cafes, which feature minimalist decor and a welcoming atmosphere. 

Thriller Social Club: A popular bar and nightclub, this venue boasts a retro-inspired atmosphere with a mix of vintage and modern decor, giving it a unique and inviting ambiance. The bar offers a wide selection of drinks, including specialty cocktails, craft beers, and fine wines, all served by friendly and attentive staff. In addition to its impressive drink selection, Thriller Social Club hosts a variety of events throughout the week, including live music performances, DJ nights, and themed parties.  

Hazie’s: Known for its contemporary handcrafted California cooking, Hazie’s engaging and eclectic menu was developed by local celebrity chef Joey Altman and features both small and large plates, great for sharing with friends and family. With a menu selection of entrees, sandwiches, and desserts, Hazie’s has something for everyone. 

Harlan Records: An independent record label that’s been making waves in the music industry since its establishment in 2014, Harlan Records specializes in punk, garage rock, and indie pop, and has released albums by notable artists such as The She's, The Paranoyds, and The Total Bettys. With a focus on promoting local talent, Harlan Records has become a go-to platform for emerging musicians in the Bay Area. The label is known for its DIY approach and dedication to nurturing and developing artists, as well as its commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive music scene. 

Moongate Lounge: A trendy bar located in the heart of San Francisco's Chinatown, the Moongate Lounge features a retro-inspired atmosphere, with vintage decor and neon lights that create an inviting ambiance. The bar offers a wide selection of drinks, including classic cocktails, craft beers, and fine wines. The lounge also hosts live music performances, DJ nights, and special events throughout the week, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy a fun and memorable night out.

Top San Francisco Restaurants

A foodie’s paradise, we’re here to help you navigate San Fran’s culinary landscape with our list of the best places to eat in the city, from Michelin-starred restaurants to hole-in-the-wall gems.

Quince: A Michelin-star restaurant located in the Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco, Quince offers an exquisite fine-dining experience, with a menu that features contemporary Italian cuisine using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant has a luxurious and elegant ambiance, with sleek and modern decor and an impressive wine collection. Quince’s kitchen is led by renowned Chef Michael Tusk, who creates masterful dishes that showcase his culinary expertise and creativity. The restaurant also offers an exceptional tasting menu that changes seasonally, allowing guests to experience a variety of flavors and textures. Overall, Quince is considered one of the best restaurants in San Francisco and is a must-visit for foodies and anyone looking for an unforgettable dining experience.

Fog Harbor at Pier 39: A highly rated seafood restaurant with stunning views of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge, Fog Harbor offers a wide selection of dishes that are sure to satisfy any seafood lover including Dungeness crab, oysters, and clam chowder. The restaurant's location on Pier 39 also makes it a great spot for tourists to enjoy a meal while taking in the sights and sounds of San Francisco's famous waterfront.

Yo También Cantina: A vibrant and colorful Mexican-inspired bar and restaurant located in the heart of the Mission district, Yo También Cantina’s menu features a delicious selection of traditional Mexican dishes, such as tacos, ceviche, and guacamole, as well as creative cocktails and a wide range of tequilas and mezcals. With its lively atmosphere and delicious food and drink options, Yo También Cantina is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the flavors and culture of Mexico in San Francisco.

Foreign Cinema: A unique restaurant that combines a love for cinema and exceptional cuisine, Foreign Cinema offers an upscale dining experience with an eclectic menu featuring California-Mediterranean dishes, as well as a carefully curated wine list. But what sets Foreign Cinema apart is its outdoor courtyard, where classic and contemporary films are screened on the building's wall. Guests can enjoy their meals while watching movies under the stars, making for a truly unforgettable dining experience. 

Lilliana: A charming and intimate Italian restaurant located in the Cow Hollow neighborhood, Lilliana’s cozy and welcoming atmosphere is perfect for a romantic date or a cozy night out with friends. The menu features a delicious selection of traditional Italian dishes, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and handmade pasta. From the homemade focaccia to the delicate pappardelle with wild boar ragu, each dish is carefully crafted and bursting with flavor. The wine list is also impressive, featuring a wide range of Italian wines that perfectly complement the menu. 

Mamanoko: A modern Japanese restaurant that offers a fusion of Japanese and Californian cuisine, Mamanoko’s menu features a variety of dishes, from traditional sushi rolls to innovative small plates like tuna poke nachos and duck confit udon. The restaurant also offers an extensive selection of sake, Japanese beer, and wine to complement its cuisine and has a sleek and stylish interior, with an open kitchen and sushi bar, creating an inviting atmosphere for diners.

Luke’s: A casual seafood restaurant, Luke’s Lobster specializes in lobster rolls, crab rolls, and shrimp rolls, sourcing its seafood from sustainable fisheries in Maine and serving it in a simple, straightforward manner that lets the quality of the ingredients shine through. In addition to rolls, Luke's also offers chowder, bisque, and a variety of sides, such as coleslaw and sweet potato fries. The restaurant's cozy interior, with its rustic decor and maritime accents, creates a laid-back and inviting atmosphere for diners. 

Top San Francisco Sights

A city full of iconic landmarks and hidden gems, we’ve narrowed our top San Fran sights to 8 of our favorites. 

MoMa: The Museum of Modern Art in San Francisco features an extensive collection of modern and contemporary artworks, showcasing many influential artists, including Frida Kahlo, Jackson Pollock, and Andy Warhol. MoMA's collection spans a wide range of mediums, from painting and sculpture to film and digital media, and the museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. The museum's striking architecture, designed by Snøhetta and EHDD, creates a dynamic and inviting space for visitors to explore and engage with contemporary art. 

Ashes & Diamonds Winery: A boutique winery that offers a unique wine-tasting experience, Ashes & Diamonds specializes in producing cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon, and merlot varietals, which are known for their rich flavors and complex notes. The winery's tasting room features a sleek and modern design, with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards. In addition to tastings, Ashes & Diamonds offers guided tours of its vineyard and production facility, giving visitors an inside look at the winemaking process. The winery's commitment to sustainability and environmentally-friendly practices has earned its recognition as a Certified California Sustainable Winery. 

Golden Gate Bridge at Sunset: Seeing the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset is an unforgettable experience that captures the natural beauty and iconic landmark of San Francisco. As the sun begins to set behind the bridge, the orange and red hues illuminate the sky, creating a breathtaking scene that's perfect for taking photos or simply enjoying the view. As the sky darkens, the bridge lights up and casts a stunning reflection on the water below, adding to the magical atmosphere. Whether you're walking across the bridge or viewing it from one of the many vantage points around the city, seeing the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset is a must-do activity for any trip to San Francisco.

Lombard Street: Known for its steep, winding road that features eight hairpin turns and stunning views of the city, visitors can drive down the street or walk along the sidewalks to take in the scenery and snap photos of the colorful gardens and charming houses that line the street. Lombard Street is located in the heart of San Francisco's Russian Hill neighborhood, which is known for its vibrant culture, restaurants, and boutique shops.  

De Young Museum: A world-class art museum, that features an extensive collection of American art from the 17th through the 21st centuries, as well as international contemporary art, textiles, and costumes, the De Young Museum includes works by many renowned artists, such as Georgia O'Keeffe, Diego Rivera, and Edward Hopper, and the museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. 

Fillmore District: A vibrant and historic neighborhood that’s played an important role in the city's cultural and musical history, the Fillmore District is known for its lively music scene, with many famous jazz clubs and venues located in the area, such as the Fillmore Auditorium and the Boom Boom Room. The neighborhood is also home to a diverse mix of restaurants, boutique shops, and art galleries, reflecting the area's rich cultural heritage. The Fillmore District has undergone significant changes over the years, but its managed to maintain its unique character and charm.

The Marina: A picturesque neighborhood located along the city's northern waterfront, The Marina District is known for its stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay, as well as its lively social scene, with many popular restaurants, bars, and shops located in the area. The Marina's main attraction is the Marina Green, a large grassy park that is popular for picnicking, jogging, and other outdoor activities. The neighborhood is also home to the Palace of Fine Arts, a stunning neoclassical monument that was built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition and now serves as a popular event venue and cultural destination. 

Land’s End Lookout: A popular lookout known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and historic landmarks, The Land’s End lookout is located in the Land's End Park, where visitors can explore the park's many trails, which wind through forests, along cliffs, and offer breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge. The Land's End Lookout also features a visitor center that offers information on the park's history and ecology, as well as a gift shop and cafe. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Land's End Lookout is a must-visit destination in San Francisco. That’s a wrap on our San Francisco City Guide! We hope we've given you some inspiration for your next trip to this beautiful city we call home.  From the breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge to the vibrant culture of the neighborhoods and the delicious food scene, San Francisco truly has something for everyone.  So get out there and explore, try something new, and make some unforgettable memories! And don’t forget to share them with us.