Dogpatch Neighborhood Guide: Industrial Grit Meets Urban Living
The Dogpatch is San Francisco’s artsy up-and-coming neighborhood located on the eastern edge of the City. Adjacent to the waterfront, the Dogpatch is squared off by Potrero Hill to the east, Mariposa Street to the north, I-280 to the west, and Cesar Chavez to the south. It is an officially designated historic district with an industrial-chic aesthetic and pulsating art scene.
And, yes, it’s dog-friendly.
Since the rapid growth incited by the Gold Rush, the historic Dogpatch district has worn many hats and undergone several facelifts.
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The Dogpatch survived the 1906 earthquake and fire relatively unscathed; since scant redevelopment followed, some of the City’s oldest structures still stand here. The second World War initiated an industrial boom led by the shipyards that constructed navy ships. The Dogpatch then started to develop a neighborhood identity after the construction of I-280 in the 1960s. During the 1990s, the dot-com boom swept the Dogpatch off its feet, sparking significant development. With the current tech boom, this formerly obscure blue-collared enclave has transformed into a hip district fit for young urban professionals.
This patch of land is the paradigm for the rise of repurposed warehouses. What makes this neighborhood distinct, and charmingly so, is the myriad of converted industrial structures. Artisans and entrepreneurs have artfully reconstructed the interiors of rusty industrial warehouses and turned them into chic restaurants, shops, bars, cafés, and importantly, art galleries.
Find Your Dream Home: Homes For Sale in the Dogpatch (Sponsored)
The Dogpatch has stamped itself as San Francisco’s thriving hub for art and design with its prominent galleries, design shops, and the Museum of Craft and Design. “The Dogpatch is definitely the destination if you’re interested in seeing art in San Francisco — it’s the place to go,” says gallerist Altman Siegel. Galleries and artists have migrated from downtown San Francisco to the Dogpatch because of the open sprawl space and creativity the atmosphere fosters.
We prescribe you to bookmark — nay, dog ear — this art-throbbing neighborhood guide. Not only are there puppy-populated parks, but you can chew on farm-to-table salads at a trattoria that once was a manufacturing plant. Not to mention, the waterfront hosts longstanding restaurant the Ramp, which was featured in the film “Blue Jasmine.” If it’s good enough for Cate Blanchett, it’s good enough for most people.
Where to Eat in the Dogpatch
SERPENTINE
$$ | 2495 3rd Street San Francisco, CA
Locally sourced ingredients that influence an ever changing menu of hearty New American fare and a thoughtfully curated list of innovative cocktails. Serpentine, with it’s rugged red brick exterior captivates guests with its cool industrial interior boasting high ceilings. Dine in the cozy booths or socialize at the bar, Serpentine is great for weekend brunch and weekday lunch and dinner. Reservations for weekend brunch are highly recommended.
Order: Fried Egg Biscuit Sandwich (Brunch), Prather Ranch Hamburger (Lunch), Maple Charred Pork Chop (Dinner)
Hours: Monday–Thurdsay: 11:30AM-2:30PM & 5:30PM-10PM, Friday: 11:30AM-2:30PM & 5:30PM-11PM, Saturday: 10AM-2:30PM & 5:30PM-11PM, Sunday: 10AM-2:30PM
Website: serpentinesf.com
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Hard Knox Café
$$ | 2526 3rd Street San Francisco, CA
Orgasmic spicy fried chicken, mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread muffins that are to die for…or a catfish Po-Boy, or even some mouth watering chicken n waffles…you get the point. ?
Order: 3-Piece Fried Chicken, Country Fried Steak, Ox Tails
Hours: Monday–Saturday: 11AM-9PM, Sunday: 11AM-5PM
Website: hardknoxcafe.com
Marcella’s Lasagneria
$$ | 1099 Tennessee Street, San Francisco, CA
Nothing beats heart warming homemade style Italian food with a side of warm and caring family hospitality to match. Every trip to Marcella’s Lasagneria is a religious experience. Every bite is a trip to Italy. This dad and son restaurant is a must visit if you love lasagna and pasta.
Order: Mushroom Lasagna, Abruzzo Lasagna, Caprese Salad
Hours: Monday–Friday: 11:30AM-6PM
Website: marcellaslasagneria.com
Smokestack
$$ | 2505 3rd Street, San Francisco, CA
Barbecue with an extensive whiskey & beer menu, the incredible triple threat imposed by the geniuses of Smokestack at the Magnolia Brewing Company. With its beautifully rustic yet modern interior accompanied by high lofty ceilings, this restaurant / brewery captures the essence of the Dogpatch’s history deeply rooted in the gritty working class neighborhood. All meats are slow cooked over almond wood giving it that delicious sweet and nutty flavor. Everything from the sauce to house brews are made from scratch. Beer and meet pairings are also offered and perfect!
Order: BBQ Brisket, Mac & Cheese, Proving Ground IPA
Hours: Sunday–Thursday: 11:30AM-10PM, Friday–Saturday: 11:30AM-11PM
Website: magnoliabrewing.com
Mr. & Mrs. Miscellaneous
$ | 699 22nd Street, San Francisco, CA
The scoops of confectionery items from the adorable Mr. & Mrs. Miscellaneous contrasts the tough industrial flavor of the Dogpatch. Visit their menu sprinkled with organic in house ice creams, toppings, cones, and cookies that rival the offerings of Humphrey Slocombe and Bi-Rite. Mr. & Mrs. Miscellaneous’s rotating menu of innovative ice creams, rich in flavor and texture alone are good enough a reason to make a trip out to the Dogpatch on warm sunny days.
Order: Caramel with Sea Salt, Chocolate Chip, Chicory Coffee
Hours: Wednesday–Sunday: 11:30AM-6PM
Website: facebook.com/Mr-and-Mrs-Miscellaneous
Where to Drink in the Dogpatch
Third Rail
$$ | 628 20th Street, San Francisco, CA
The perfect place to stop by for an after-work drink and snack, Third Rail is a cozy, dimly lit bar. The bar keepers are welcoming, friendly, and knowledgeable. Highlights include their well mixed cocktails and fantastic whiskey & jerky pairing menu.
Order: “The Rail” with Beer from Harmonic, a Shot of Bourbon, and Mighty Meat Jerky
Hours: Sunday–Wednesday: 3PM-12AM, Thursday–Saturday: 3PM-2AM
Website: thirdrailbarsf.com
Dogpatch Saloon
$$ | 2496 3rd Street, San Francisco, CA
Since 1912, Dogpatch Saloon has gone through and witnessed the neighborhood undergo many changes, but one thing that hasn’t changed is it continues to be a place where hard working individuals can stop by after a long day of work and enjoy a cold one before heading home. Dogpatch Saloon is your welcoming, dog friendly neighborhood bar with friendly service, great pours, a fun happy hour, and a creative cocktail menu.
Order: Whiskey Snap
Hours: Monday–Thursday: 2PM-2AM, Friday–Sunday: 12PM-2AM
Website: dogpatchsaloon.com
Triple Voodoo
$$ | 2245 3rd Street, San Francisco, CA
Upon walking into the modern industrial interior of this heaven for beer lovers, you’ll be greeted by the most pleasant menu of handcrafted brews on tap. With an average ABV of 7.5%, their strong rotation of 16 craft Belgians and IPAs will definitely get the job done. Sample the catalogue by crafting your own beer flight and bring home a bottle (or 6). Upon your visit to this magnificent tap room you must try Triple Voodoo’s very own 2016 California State Fair Award winning Bourbon Barrel Aged Shadow Boxing Imperial Stout and remember to tip Christine well!
Order: Illinois Street IPA, Bourbon Barrel Aged Shadow Boxing Imperial Stout, Charlie
Hours: Monday–Thursday: 4PM-11PM, Friday: 3PM-12AM, Saturday: 12PM-12AM, Sunday: 12PM-8PM
Website: triplevoodoo.com
Where to Caffeinate in the Dogpatch
Piccino Coffee Bar
$$ | 1001 Minnesota Street, San Francisco, CA
A warm, radiant yellow house that you can’t help but feel drawn towards to on sunny days. Since 2006, Piccino’s Sher Rogat and Margherita Sagan have been welcoming the Dogpatch into their home. Their passion for cooking and sense of community really emanates upon their craft and touches those who visit Piccino everyday. The aromatic coffee roasted by Sightglass, irresistible pizza, fine wine menu, and friendly service will have you go back for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Order: Funghi Pizza, Margherita Pizza, Bianca Pizza
Hours: Monday–Sunday: 11AM-10PM
Website: piccino.com
Related: 15 Coffee Shops to Visit in San Francisco Before You Die
Dogpatch Café
$ | 2295 3rd Street, San Francisco, CA
Located on the bustling corner of 3rd and 20th street, Dogpatch Café is a spacious cafe and art gallery where you can grab a cup of organic coffee and a quick bite that won’t break your wallet. Free WiFi and comfortable seating makes this Café a great place to settle in and catch up on some work or to just hang out in an inspirational space.
Order: Organic Coffee, The Works Sandwich
Hours: Monday–Sunday: 7AM-6PM
Website: dogpatchcafe.com
Where to Shop in the Dogpatch
Triple Aught Design
$$$ | 660 22nd Street, San Francisco, CA
Short for 000 or one thousandth of an inch, “Triple Aught” is a term frequently used by engineers and machinists to achieve high standards of precise measurement, and that’s the level of quality Triple Aught Design aims for when designing their top quality, functional gear. With a full catalogue of apparel from hats to pants and equipment from every day carry items to commuter accessories, be prepared for whatever the world throws at you with Triple Aught Design’s industry grade products.
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday: 11AM-7PM
Website: tripleaughtdesign.com
Rickshaw Bagworks
$$ | 904 22nd Street, San Francisco, CA
Homegrown and made in San Francisco, Rickshaw Bagworks specializes in functional, minimalistic commuter bags and accessories. There aren’t too many places in the city where you can actually go into the factory, and work with a knowledgable staff member to customize your own bag. With his team of 30 fine craftsmen, founder Mark Dwight has been offering consumers high quality alternatives to the seemingly conforming sea of boring black backpacks that flood the busses every weekday morning since 2007.
Hours: Currently Closed for Renovations, Email [email protected] for an appointment
Website: rickshawbags.com
N.I.C.E Collective
$$$ | 2535 3rd Street, San Francisco, CA
With designs inspired by art, music, and fashion, founders Joe Haller and Ian Hannula started N.I.C.E in 1997 here in San Francisco. The duo sought out to craft the same kind of streetwear they love, but they took it a step further by adding their own flavor and experimenting with high quality military fabrics and details. With their fresh take on streetwear, N.I.C.E earned a spot in GQ Magazine’s 2007 round up of “The Best New Designers in America” and have outfitted celebrities like Brad Pitt, Robert Pattinson, Gavin Rossdale, Coldplay, and Nine Inch Nails. Stop by Dogpatch’s very own N.I.C.E and shop their fantastic catalogue of men’s and women’s apparel.
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday: 12PM-7PM
Website: nicecollective.com
Where to Sweat in the Dogpatch
LaLanne Fitness CrossFit
901 Tennessee Street, San Francisco, CA
If you’re tired of the same old boring routine of lifting dumbbells and running on the treadmill like a lab rat, it’s time to change it up and head over to LaLanne Fitness CrossFit. Started by Chris and Maribel LaLanne in 2008, this isn’t your typical gym that’s jam packed with all kinds of machines that require you to read instructions. An official CrossFit Affiliate, LaLanne Fitness offers members over 50 classes from CrossFit to Olympic lifting led by a supportive team of expert trainers. So if you’re ready to take your workout to the next level and visit LaLanne Fitness.
Hours: Monday–Friday: 6AM-7:30PM, Saturday: 7:30AM-11:30AM, Sunday: 9:30AM-12:30PM
Website: lalannefitness.com
Third Street Boxing
2576 3rd Street, San Francisco, CA
“The ONLY real boxing gym in SF”, Third Street Boxing was started by Dublin native, Paul Wade in 2003. A former Golden Glove Boxer, Wade’s passion for the sport of boxing and fitness has inspired an array of members from average joe’s to A-list celebrities to join him at Third Street Boxing. 5,700 square feet of boxing and standard gym equipment including free weights, squat racks, tractor tires, and much more is what you’ll find upon your visit. All classes from conditioning to sparring are boxing focused and led by experienced instructors like pro boxer Karim Mayfield. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned fighter, as long as you’re willing to put in the work, Third Street Boxing will help guide you reach your goals. Your first class is free, and equipment is available for rental, so if you think you have what it takes, give this amazing gym a shot.
Hours: Monday–Thursday: 6AM-1PM & 3PM-9PM, Friday: 6AM-1PM & 3PM-8PM, Saturday–Sunday: 8AM-1PM
Website: 3rdstreetboxing.com
Dogpatch Boulders
2573 3rd Street, San Francisco, CA
With 17 foot high bouldering walls, a pro shop, weight room, fitness studio, and 14,000 square feet of ever changing bouldering terrain, Dogpatch Boulders is the largest bouldering only gym in California. Just one of the 11 members within the Touchstone gym family, Dogpatch Boulders first opened its doors to the Dogpatch in 2013. In addition to an array of class offerings for climbers of all levels they also have a great selection of yoga classes led by experienced instructors.
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 7AM-10PM, Tuesday, Thursday, 11AM-11PM, Satuday:-Sunday: 10AM-7PM
Website: touchstoneclimbing.com/dogpatch-boulders
Where to Get Outdoors in the Dogpatch
Esprit Park
19th Street & Minnesota Street, San Francisco, CA
Bordered by Redwoods and Cherry Blossoms, Esprit Park was gifted to the City by Esprit Corporation. With a spacious well-groomed field and many picnic tables, this dog friendly is the perfect place to spend sunny days in the Dogpatch.
Hours: Daily: 5AM-Midnight
Website: sfrecpark.org
Progress Park
Indiana Street, San Francisco, CA
A community led initiative, Progress Park is located underneath i-280 North on Indiana Street and features a fenced off-leash dog area, bocce court, pull up bars, and meandering paths for leisurely strolls.
Hours: N/A
Website: sfparksalliance.org
Woods Yard Park
Tennessee Street & 22nd Street, San Francisco, CA
Equipped with a small playground, two grassy areas and conveniently located right across the street from Rickshaw Bagworks and Piccino, the dog friendly Woods Yard Park is the perfect place to bring children while you wait for your table before Sunday brunch, or after you shop for your new bags.
Hours: N/A
Website: sfparksalliance.org
Where to Get Cultured in the Dogpatch
The Museum of Craft and Design
2569 3rd Street, San Francisco, CA
Founded in 2004, The Museum of Craft and Design is the only museum in San Francisco dedicated to modern and contemporary craft and design. With an array of well curated exhibits showcasing work by esteemed designers, artists, and makers, this museum is the perfect place in the city to go for inspiration that’ll fuel your creativity.
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday: 11AM-6PM, Sunday: 12PM-5PM
Website: sfmcd.org
