Shopping Day on Fillmore Street in San Francisco
Fillmore, as San Franciscans call it, is a cool neighborhood where you don’t typically find very many tourists — it’s a great place to get a sense of the local scene and spend a very enjoyable day. The main shopping blocks run from about Pine Street, up the hill to Clay Street. Some of my fave boutiques in the city are found on this street, so it’s a regular destination for me.
I like to park on California Street, between Fillmore and Pierce, where there’s a little pay parking lot right across from Mollie Stone’s grocery store. (The kiosks accept credit cards, which is a bonus.) As I walk to Fillmore, I turn right and start at Mio. This store has been an SF mainstay since it opened in 1986. It’s for the creative, artsy dresser, and it’s refreshingly size inclusive. They always have a great selection of Ivan Grundahl and Pleats Please, which I adore.
It’s for the creative, artsy dresser, and it’s refreshingly size inclusive.
Exiting the store, I turn back from where I came and start meandering up Fillmore. Next stop is Gallery of Jewels. (They have sadly closed their doors.) They represent over a hundred independent jewelry designers. And trust me, they cover all jewelry styles, from classic to modern, delicate to bold. I have to go through all the cases a couple times, as there’s so much to take in! On my last visit, I couldn’t help but admire this gem-i-licious necklace from local artist Sam Woehrmann.
The main shopping blocks run from about Pine Street, up the hill to Clay Street
Often needing a little snack, I have been known to pop into Jane for a delicious avocado toast. Perfect boost for some more shopping.
I always have to stop in Jonathan Adler for a dose of color and joy. I look around wondering, “Why doesn’t my home look this chic?!” I love the mod styles and cheeky accessories.
Although I don’t have children, I do enjoy a gander at the kid’s merchandise at Mudpie. They have the most darling décor for a nursery and the cuddliest clothes for the little ones in your life. I have definitely purchased some amazing gifts for friends here.
Next, I stop in Cielo to check out the latest from fashion forward designers such as Yohji Yamamoto, Ann Demeulemeester, and Rick Owens. There’s also some chic jewelry in the case at the cash wrap, so don’t miss taking a look.
Onwards up the hill and across the street, is Nest. I doubt you’ve come across a store quite like this – it’s a combination of home goods, antiques, finds from afar, jewelry, clothes, and more. There are so many treasures packed into this corner store, so I always allow a generous amount of time to peruse, try on, and savor.
Now that I’ve done my “route,” I head back down the hill toward my car. If there’s time, I may stop in some of the main brand stores on the street as well, including Athleta, Eileen Fisher, and Joie. And if I’m really wanting a special treat, I’ll stop into Smitten Ice Cream for a cone before jumping back in the car.
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