San Francisco's Hayes Valley a hot spot for cool design
San Francisco's hippest upscale shopping district used to be one of its seediest. In the early 90s, the Hayes Valley neighborhood was a place to avoid, home to drug dealers and prostitutes. Now, savvy residents come here for trendy boutiques and restaurants, and the biggest risk might be maxing out your credit card. It's easy to spend an afternoon exploring this friendly community of tree-lined streets and a smattering of Victorian buildings just west of the city's Civic Center neighborhood. Casual eateries and design-minded stores are plentiful, and there's no need to get an early start -- most of the businesses don't open until 11 a.m. Many establishments are closed on Mondays. Crime plagued the neighborhood before the looming freeway overpass that bisected it was damaged in the 1989 earthquake and eventually demolished. Since then, stylish shops, restaurants and galleries have gradually moved into the colorful storefronts, helping drive out the shady characters of the area's past. Here are a handful of spots to get you started: startclickprintexclude--> Stop at like the rich citrus bundt cake with fresh fruit and whipped cream. Or opt for the soups and salads made from local, seasonal ingredients. 602 Hayes Street; (415) 626-5406 or http://www.moderntea.com/ startclickprintexclude--> The Hayes Valley Inn leaves trendy design to neighboring businesses. This 28-room budget hotel provides a comforting, grandma's-house atmosphere. The accommodations are European-style, with sinks in the rooms and shared bathrooms in the hall. Rates range from $84-$105 per night for a double room with continental breakfast. 417 Gough Street; (800) 930-7999 or http://www.hayesvalleyinn.com/ |
