Sep. 23, 2011
From the pitcher who got his groove back to the doctor who's bringing Pac Heights to Bayview to the gamer who wants to fix reality itself—these are the 20 locals putting the spotlight on SF and lighting a fire under the rest of us.
Opened in 1913, SF legacy business Balboa Cafe remains an anchor in Cow Hollow. (Courtesy of Balboa Cafe)
The neighborhood's main drag is so iconic it even gets its own party each summer: the Union Street Festival (June 1-2, 2024). But the rest of the year has an equally lively vibe, with sidewalk parklets busy at meal time and sunshine nearly year-round.
The Best Cafes + Restaurants in Cow Hollow, San Francisco
Bar Crenn slings cocktails and elevated snacks in a chic space inspired by Japanese hi-fi bars.
(Courtesy of @barcrenn)Fine Dining
For those who don't frequent this slice of the city, chef Dominique Crenn's three-Michelin starred Atelier Crenn(3127 Fillmore St.) is the neighborhood's defining destination. Arguably San Francisco's most imaginative restaurant where each and every dish is a piece of poetry and a work of art, Atelier Crenn is choice for special occasion dining. For a slightly more casual albeit highly stylish Crenn experience, the adjacent Bar Crenn (3131 Fillmore St.) is a sexy spot for cocktails and fancy snacks with a welcoming interior inspired by Japanese hi-fi listening bars.
Casual Eats
Balboa Cafe(3199 Fillmore St.) is practically an official landmark: Opened in 1913, this legacy business is still hoppin'. Go for a burger and the famous espressotini. // Even omnivores enjoy the modern vegan fare at Wildseed(2000 Union St.), which serves gorgeous cocktails alongside plant-based plates such as mezze plates, scrumptious salads, and seasonal pizzas. // Spend your day on island time with a trip to Palm House(2032 Union St.) for island-inspired eats and tropical cocktails, slushies, and punch bowls. (Pro tip: Join 7x7 Social Club to get that $69 punch bowl half price!) // Order a Naked and Famous and the signature nachos at The Brixton(2140 Union St.), where the barkeeps serve up tasty tipples along with solid burgers and classic brunch fare. // Perry’s(1944 Union St.) is a crowd-pleaser for its streetside seating and all-American menu. // Don't miss the zucchini-onion haystack side at toppings-centric Roam Burger(1785 Union St.), which has options of grass-fed beef, all-natural bison, turkey, and veggie patties. // For a Chinese food fix, fill up on Xiao Long bao and fan-favorite DanDan noodles from Dumpling Union(1809 Union St.). // Take outside dining away from the sidewalk bustle with a date night on the patio at Camino Alto(1715 Union St.), featuring Japanese and Mexican inspired cuisine. // For a more lively affair, get the margaritas flowing and chips and guac coming at Flores(2030 Union St.), a stylish Mexican restaurant with a Bib Gourmand seal of approval. // Just off the main drag, Terzo(3011 Steiner St.) serves Mediterranean-style dishes perfect for sharing. // Rose's Cafe(2298 Union St.) is a neighborhood favorite for its locally sourced organic produce, housemade pasta, and delicious baked treats. // The Italian Homemade Company(1919 Union St.) also satisfies cravings for lasagna Bolognese. // For Mediterranean-style small plates and wines from the under-the-radar regions, we love the warm flavors and neighborhood vibes of Roaming Goat(1830 Union St.).
Cafe Culture
Wander down to the corner of Fillmore and Union where you'll find the charming Union Street Coffee Roastery(2191 Union St.) with its delicious brews made from beans roasted on site. // Coffee snobs will also appreciate Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters(2271 Union St.), a cozy spot that also has an impressive inventory of specialty coffee curated by husband-and-wife team Nick Cho and Trish Rothgeb. // Or make it coffee and a wood-fired bagel from the latest Daily Driver (1977 Union St. B) outpost. // Top it off a scoop of creamy gelato from the authentic Gio Gelati(1998 Union St.)—the milk and caramelized figs flavor is divine.
Gourmet Stores
Feast your eyes on the highly curated collection of delectable small-batch goodies (craft whiskeys and mezcal) at The Epicurean Trader(1909 Union St.). // For the discerning home chef, Luke’s Local(2190 Union St.) offers an elevated approach to grocery.// For something truly special, head over to The Caviar Co.(1954 Union St.), for a wide selection of sustainably sourced caviar, including flights and fabulous gifts. // When it's time to grab a bottle of wine, Plumpjack Wine & Spirits(3201 Fillmore St.) is the neighborhood's go-to. // Even our four-legged friends can shop gourmet snacks here: Cow Hollow is home to two neighboring bakeries, Mishka Luxury Dog Treats(2124 Union St.) and Le Marcel(2066 Union St.) that cater specially to our BFFs.
Where to Work Out + Get Juiced on Union Street
Housed in an old movie theater, Equinox's Cow Hollow gym has every amenity and all the classes you can think of.
(Courtesy of Equinox Union Street)
Cow Hollow's Union Street is ground zero for the legging set who can be seen zipping between yoga and SoulCycle with green juices in hand. Whether you live in the hood or are just looking for a great workout, this stretch of SF has a class for even the pickiest of yoga bunnies.
Sweat
At Karma Yoga(1906 Union St.), try the signature Hot HIIT Flow classes—a mix of Pilates and yoga principles with the added intensity of a HIIT workout. // Align your breathing and movement at Yoga Flow SF(1892 Union St.), which focuses on all-levels classes. // Check out The Pad Studios(1694 Union St.)—a spacious studio that provides Vinyasa and slow flow options along with prenatal yoga and mommy and baby classes. // The Lotus Method(1775 Union St.) is a holistic studio that focuses on pre- and postnatal yoga instruction. // Those looking for a high-intensity cardio workout can sign up for a spin cycle class at SoulCycle(2095 Union St.). // CorePower Yoga(2909 Webster St.) devotees can drop in for a yoga sculpt session around the corner. // If it's an all-out gym session you're looking for then Crunch (1725 Union St) and Equinox(2055 Union St) will help you work up a sweat. Crunch offers free three-day trials, while Equinox has an Earth Bar and spa for a touch of post-workout indulgence. // Barre loyalists have a home at Barre Union(2118 Union St.) and anyone needing an assist can book a session with a Flexologist from StretchLab(1869 Union St.). // When you've worked up a pain in the neck or sustain an actual injury from sport, let Dr. Jake Hennen at Premier Health Chiropractic(2001 Union St.) put you back to together again.
Gear Shops
For cycling enthusiasts, the SF outpost for UK brand Rapha(2198 Filbert St.) stocks premium cycling gear and apparel for men and women and hosts group rides. // Roll into Trek Bicycle(3001 Steiner St.) for a precision fit appointment.
Juice and Healthy Spirits
Kick off a cleanse or hydrate and replenish post-sweat at Pressed Juicery(2162A Union St). // For heartier but still-light bites, Palmetto Superfoods (2150 Union St.) has build-your-own acai and mango bowls to-go. // Don’t let health goals get in the way of imbibing with Better Sunday(1695 Union St.), a non-alcoholic bottle shop and social club. // Down the street, the first NorCal location of The New Bar(2181 Union St. Unit A) offers a colorful selection of wine, beer, and spirits for the sober set.
The Best Shopping on and Around SF's Union Street
(Courtesy of Anomie)
Fashion
Shoe lovers should head directly to Birdies(1934 Union St.) to check out their collection of lounge-worthy slippers made from lush velvets, leathers and silks, all artistically displayed in a bright airy showroom decked out with beautiful furniture. // For separates and gifts, Anomie(2149 Union St.) is an independently owned boutique that stocks handcrafted objects and apparel including Australian label Finders Keepers and home goods from Areaware. // Get your European style fix at Union Street stalwart Danielle(2278 Union St.), which stocks hard to find French and Italian labels alongside U.S. brands. Pair with any of the European shoe selection atDantone Milano boutique(1784 Union St.). // Check outCarats and Stones(1833 Union St.) for their selection of stunning bling rings. // As the throngs of athleisure-clad women in the 'hood will indicate, fitness is a big deal here. Get your fix at Lululemon(1981 Union St). // For the cool-down, stock up on oh-so-soft sweat sets at Vuori(2090 Union St.). // Bonobos(1964 Union St.) stocks a stylish range of contemporary men's apparel, ranging from suiting to resort-wear tailored just for you. // Bobby London(2187 Union St.) is a dapper shop that stocks exclusive labels for both men and women. Look out for regular shop-and-sip events including a Father's Day celebration on June 15th when 7x7 Social Club members will score 30 percent off purchases. // Nearby, Untuckit(1872 Union St) carries the brand's signature casual and collared shirts, all meant to be worn effortlessly untucked, of course.
Beauty
Get your makeup fix at Sephora(2083 Union St.) or at professional make-up purveyor Kryolan(1684 Union St.). // Treat yourself at Jo Malone London(2157 Union St.), where botanical-based scents are sold in an extensive home collection. // Whether you just want a manicure or need a Thai massage, we like Bamboo Spa(2284 Union St.) for its tucked-away location and spot-on service.
Specialty Shops
TopDrawer(1840 Union St.) has all the gear you need to schlep it across the globe, along with an enviable selection of writing tools. // Swing by the conceptual Casper showroom (2174 Union St.) where you can try out the brand's award-winning mattresses, pillows, and bedspreads while lounging in super cute wooden house displays. // Swing by to pick up a posy of fresh blooms for the weekend at local icons The Bud Stop(2200 Union St.) and Le Bouquet (2203-2205 Union St.) which have each been supplying the neighborhood with beautiful flowers since the ‘80s. // Proudly representing her Korean and Japanese heritage, owner Jessica Ann stocks Nikoniko Gifts(2181 Union St.) with Asian goods for kids and adults.
7x7 Social Club members can grab BOGO tix to TreasureFest in June. (Courtesy of @treasurefestsf)
Join 7x7 Social Club now to access perks at the following Bay Area institutions this June. Perks drop shortly after Memorial Day!
ARTS + CULTURE
Get "Together Again" with five-time Grammy-winning pop princess Janet Jackson, with special guest Nelly, at Chase Center (June 12). 7x7 Social Club has an exclusive number of free tix, guaranteed to dance out the door on day one.
It's not every night that Alonzo King's Lines Ballet takes the stage at the SF Symphony. With discounted tickets, there's no excuse for missing this one-night-only performance (June 7).
The Monterey Artichoke Festival (June 8-9) is quirky as hell, totally iconic, and a thing every Bay Arean must experience once. Check it off the list with BOGO tickets.
Music, dancing, live art, vintage, makers, and street food—what more could want from TreasureFest(June 29-30)? How about a free ticket?
7x7 Social Club members are also scoring steep discounts at the Asian Art Museum and Contemporary Jewish Museum.
Speakeasy SF continues to roar in 1920s fashion (through June 23). Flip your fringe with an exclusive discount on tickets.
Care to do a bit of shopping? We've got special hookups on heated furniture at Galanter & Jones and men's and women's apparel at Bobby London (oh hey, Father's Day!).
EAT + DRINK
Celebrate Pride month with a free stack of "the gayest pancakes ever" at Hilda and Jesse.
Did you know the pisco sour is a true SF original? When you order the best one in town (hint: It's at La Mar), you'll get the second one free.
At Fort Point Beer Co., 7x7 Social Club members get their second round on the house.
It's always summer at Cow Hollow's Palm House, which is especially bright at brunch. Order up dishes like the avocado benedict and get their famous boozy punch bowls half priced!
Planning a trip to Wine Country? Book an exclusive tour and tasting experience at the beautiful garden winery of St. Helena's Sullivan Rutherford Estate.
And guess what? New members also get access to ongoing Social Club offers including preferred reservations at the Michelin-recommended 7 Adams, plus freebies and drink specials at Abaca, Cassava,Bar Nonnina, Cold Drinks, and Holy Water.
SUMMER GETAWAYS + OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES
Whether you're a seasoned van-lifer or a curious road warrior, kick off summer with a free night on four luxurious wheels with Moterra.
Love Skunk Train but need some (e-assisted) exercise? Gear up for big discounts on Railbike adventures through Mendocino's old growth redwoods.
Pet the bunnies, feed the chickens, and take in the crashing ocean view when you check in with special rates at Mar Vista Farm + Cottages up in Mendocino County.
Open yourself up to new experiences and mad skills in the great outdoors when you sign up for single-day beginner surfing, survival, and rock climbing lessons at Adventure Out.
Feeling staycation vibes? You don't need to check in to indulge in discounted pool cabanas, live music, trivia nights, and free dessert at Santa Rosa's Flamingo Resort & Spa—but if you do, we have a deal on overnight stays, too.
We've got these and more surprises coming to members this June. Plus, look out for the opening of 7x7 Social Club's Vacant to Vibrant pop-up in Jackson Square where we'll be hosting an array of dynamic events celebrating everything we love about Bay Area life.
// Join 7x7 Social for just $7/month, cancel anytime, at 7x7.com.
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(Kassie Borreson)
Dillon Beach Resort has been revived by local Mike Goebel (also the owner of Petaluma's Brewsters and SF's Churchill and Bloodhound) who, since buying the property in 2018, has orchestrated an overhaul in partnership with Oregon-based tiny home home builder Tru Form Tiny. The team has preserved the easygoing vibe of the retreat's early days, while spiffing up the amenities and adding 13 new tiny homes to the existing 14 cottages clustered on the hillside.
Set on 55 acres including one rare acre of coastline, Dillon Beach Resort is said to be one of the only privately owned sections of beach in California.
“There’s a lot of character to the property, and being on the coast, it’s raw,” says Goebel. “We try to not do much and sort of just embrace that rawness. It’s a fine balance to create something special and unique but also let the elements in.”
The elements are at your fingertips when you stay in the new tiny homes, designed to be fully functional and intentional.
The 150-square-foot studios have floor-to-ceiling windows that make you feel as if you’re in the middle of the ocean, while fully stocked kitchens will keep you cozy on the ground with vintage-style appliances, gas ranges, and the necessary accoutrements for fresh pour-overs of Equator coffee. There are also pull-down murphy beds and concrete sinks in the bathrooms.
The resort's other lodging options vary in size with some, like the two-bedroom cottages on the bluff closest to the beach, being ample enough for families and groups. These 1940s army bunkers still have some cool original features, but each has been updated with the same vintage beach-chic vibes.
Outdoor spaces have a communal feel with Adirondack chairs, picnic tables, and a large central deck with corn hole set up if the spirit hits. And, of course, there's the beach which, though Goebel has private ownership, he maintains it as a public beach. There's unique opportunity for fun events down there, and he plans to host pop-up events, weddings, and other programming there soon—think summer clambakes and fire-to-table dinners in the cypress grove. If you happen to stumble upon a horse trailer-turned-bar down at the beach, make sure to run over for a cold beer.
When the time comes for a meal, the onsite Coastal Kitchen, helmed by chef Jake Wood, serves seaside classics such as chowder and fish and chips, plus a burger, a Caesar salad, and some creative surprises. Pastry chef Luiza Rodrigues' tempting goodies also stock the stay's General Store, a marketplace and coffee shop that sells local goat's milk soap, Double 8 Dairy soft serve, and obscure bottles of mezcal. You can even rent a surfboard there.
Thing Things to do Near Dillon Beach Resort
You probably won’t really want to venture away from the beach or your cozy new tiny home, but if you do, there are fun outing options nearby, including the stellar Route One Bakery & Kitchen in Tomales.
Toluma Farms & Tomales Farmstead Creamery is also a must-visit. Owners Tamara Hicks and David Jablons are deeply committed to land protection and preservation. The goat and sheep dairy and creamery also works in partnership with SF bagel company Daily Driver. You can buy their cheese at the Dillon Beach General Store, but we recommend booking a tour for a deeper dive into farm life amd tasting at their lovely farm house.
And for an offsite meal, nothing beats Nick’s Cove, the storied resort restaurant now in the capable hands of chef Chris Cosentino whose menu highlights seafood including the new “Jasper-style” roll with Dungeness crab, Bay shrimp and lobster. Don’t skip an order of the smoked black cod dip with spiced house potato chips—“a riff off my childhood,” says Cosentino, who grew up in New England. “But we’re not using Old Bay seasoning here, we’re using Tomales Bay seasoning,” he explains, harvested and dried just for these chips. “This place has become an East Coast-West Coast mashup for me.”
// Dillon Beach Resort, 1 Beach Ave. (Dillon Beach), dillonbeachresort.com
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Happy Father’s Day!
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