Before Hayes Valley was packed with trendy shops and restaurants, it was bisected by San Francisco's Central Freeway. Today, modern architecture and a beer garden have replaced the highway. Here are local Sarah Feldberg's tips to the neighborhood.
LessA flexible community space at the center of Hayes Valley, Proxy SF hosts cafes and shops in repurposed shipping containers and free public movies where you can BYO picnic blanket and snacks. Consult the online calendar for what’s on deck.
Tucked into a narrow alley, Fig & Thistle specializes in natural wines made without additives and served without attitude. Let the laid-back staff guide you to pours that range from easily palatable to seriously funky.
Behind an unmarked red door, you’ll find a chef-owned den of drinking that feels like being in on a secret. Here in-the-know locals sip “spirituous” (read: boozy) and “seasonal” (read: fruity) cocktails, and the vibe feels like being in a friend’s very cool living room.
It’s always a good time inside this raucous German wirtshaus. Grab a seat at a communal table, order a plate of schnitzel and feel transported to Europe, if only for an hour.