Warriors Ground: A Guide to San Francisco’s Mission Bay
On the bayside outskirts of SoMa lies one of San Francisco’s best kept secrets and final frontiers of new development: Mission Bay.
Located directly across Mission Creek from AT&T Park, Mission Bay is unofficially San Francisco’s next up-and-coming hub of new development. With wide boulevards and vacant lots steadily filling up with luxury condos and apartment complexes, the potential for Mission Bay’s bright future is already pronounced.
In addition to housing a congregation of Biotech companies, this industrial waterfront neighborhood hosts the University of California, San Francisco’s research campus, as well as the UCSF Medical Center, their newest state-of-the-art hospital complex.
UCSF’s arrival in Mission Bay spurred a gainful increase in development, as evidenced by the new constructions of upscale contemporary condos such as One Mission Bay, Radiance, Madrone, and Arden. Like the rest of Mission Bay, these buildings boast some of the best views (and amenities) in San Francisco, making it an idyllic neighborhood to call home.
Construction is pervasive in Mission Bay, signaling it’s vibrant future. The most notable project currently underway is the Chase Center; the stadium is the soon-to-be home for the reigning Golden State Warriors, which is scheduled to open in 2019.
Considering that Mission Bay is but a small bridge away from the San Francisco Giants AT&T Ballpark, this bayside arrondissement is en route to become sports central for the Bay. There’s even a junior Giants field for all non-MLB players to enjoy.
Mission Bay is ideal for anyone who loves the water, as it runs along the Bay’s boardwalk and is flanked by a plentitude of fishing spots. Also running alongside Mission Bay is Mission Creek, a soothing creek by the ballpark where houseboats bob to the Bay’s breeze. In a short distance is a lot of the City’s waterfront attractions like the Embarcadero and the Ferry Building.
Though Mission Bay’s nightlife scene is still quiet, businesses are gradually popping up and the promise of growth is unquestionable. However, since Mission Bay currently feels like a serene retreat from the City’s cluster, residents tend to venture out to busier areas, like South of Market, The Mission, or Dogpatch, by taking advantage of the convenient light rail or the nearby 4th & King Street Caltrain Station for access across the Bay. The neighborhood is located next to I-280 and I-80, making for facilitated transportation to other parts of the Bay.
Between the waterfront, industrial buildings, and sleek new developments, Mission Bay leaves no room for boredom, despite its tucked-away tranquility. With a growing identity and exciting future, this neighborhood is indubitably one to watch—or move into before it becomes too sought after.
Where to Eat in Mission Bay
Mission Rock Resort
$$ | 817 Terry Francois Blvd, San Francisco, CA
A member of the Golden Bear Restaurant Group which includes MoMo’s, Pedro’s Cantina, and Pete’s Tavern, the Mission Rock Resort is one of the City’s premier waterfront restaurants. Situated in one of San Francisco’s rare fog free zones, enjoy wonderfully prepared sea food on their beautiful outdoor dining area boasting views of the bay. Mission Rock Resort is also home to the best oyster happy hour you’ll find in the City. Reservations are recommended for weekend brunch and lunch.
Order: Fish & Chips, Dungeness Crab Mac & Cheese, Kumamoto Oysters
Hours: Weekdays: 11AM – 9PM, Saturday: 10AM – 9PM, Sunday: 10AM – 8PM
Website: missionrockresort.com
SPARK Social
$$ | 601 Mission Bay Blvd N San Francisco, CA
Developed by the same team that brought San Francisco the SoMa StrEat Food Park, SPARK Social is an urban social hub and event space that hosts an array of food and beverage vendors. With a steady rotation of over 150 food trucks, this food park / beer and sangria garden really helps foster a sense of community within Mission Bay. Soak in some sunlight on their Instagram worthy, repurposed double decker bus, or cozy up around a fire pit at night. SPARK Social is your best bet for a great time in this fabulous neighborhood.
Hours: Monday – Friday: 11AM – 3PM & 5PM – 9PM, Saturday: 11AM – 9PM, Sunday: 10AM – 5PM
Website: sparksocialsf.com
Esposto’s Delicatessen
$ | 1700 Owens Street, San Francisco, CA
Frequented by UCSF students and medical professionals, Esposto’s Delicatessen is a great to-go lunch option. Grab one of their tasty signature sandwiches, fresh tossed salads, or Italian-style hot entrees.
Order: Valentino’s One and Only Sandwich
Hours: Weekdays: 9AM – 5PM
Website: espostos.com
The Ramp
$$ | 855 Terry Francois Street, San Francisco, CA
Voted “Best Waterfront Bar” in 2016 by San Francisco Modern Luxury, eat, drink, and dance til’ you drop, because at The Ramp, the fun don’t stop. Once a bait shop in the 50’s, The Ramp has evolved into one of the most fun and popular destinations in the City. Serving an array of seafood and American fare, and hosting live salsa music and dancing every Saturday on their beautiful outdoor dining area, The Ramp is your best bet for some weekend fun. Be sure to stop by for their happy hour on Monday and Thursday between 11AM and 7PM for $1 oysters!
Order: Fish & Chips, Eggs Benedict, Crab Benedict
Hours: Weekdays: 11AM – 9PM. Weekends: 10AM – 9PM
Website: theramprestaurant.com
Stem Kitchen & Garden
$$ | 499 Illinois Street, San Francisco, CA
Fantastic Mediterranean fare made with fresh produce grown in an in-house garden and a fire pit heated outdoor terrace with bocce ball? YES! Stop by and relax after work or enjoy a nice meal before the game, Stem Kitchen & Garden offers guests full entree options and a selection of beer on wine on tap. Happy hour takes place Monday – Thursday from 3PM to 6PM.
Order: Charcuterie Board
Hours: Weekdays: 7AM – 9PM, Saturday: 4PM – 9PM
Website: stemkitchensf.com
Cozymeal
$$ | 420 Mission Bay Blvd N Suite 504, San Francisco, CA
Connecting local professional chefs with foodies, Cozymeal offers a unique cooking and dining experience. Great for team building, chefs either invite guests into their homes, unique local venues, or conduct house calls for cooking classes and a special dining experience. Contact Cozymeal for more information on the different classes being offered and other catering needs!
Website: cozymeal.com
Where to Drink in Mission Bay
Anchor Brewing at The Yard
$$ | 100 Terry A Francois Blvd, San Francisco, CA
Channeling the neighborhood’s inner Hayes Valley, The Yard is a social hot spot beautifully constructed out of repurposed shipping containers. Fun for all ages, enjoy a cold one at Anchor Brewing’s outdoor patio area, feast on a delicious, organic burger from Belcampo, snag a crêpe from Crêperie Saint-Germain, or get your FIFA on at the USA Street Soccer Park. The Yard is the perfect place to grab a bite / drink before heading to AT&T Park to root on the Giants.
Order: Beer from Anchor Brewing
Hours: Thursday – Saturday: 12PM – 7PM, Sunday: 12PM – 5PM
Website: theyardsf.com
ATwater Tavern
$$ | 295 Terry A Francois Blvd, San Francisco, CA
Serving California fare with a fantastic raw bar and a wide selection of drinks including wine on tap, ATwater Tavern welcomes guests into their expansive industrial space boasting incredible views of the city from their upper level deck. ATwater Tavern offers terrific lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch options.
Order: Kinda’ Like an Old Fashioned Cocktail, Sazerac Cocktail
Hours: Weekdays: 11:30AM – 9PM, Weekends: 10AM – 9PM
Website: atwatertavern.com
Oda Restaurant and Brewery
$$ | 1500 Owens St Ste 100, San Francisco, CA
Conveniently located nearby UCSF Mission Bay, Oda is an inviting, full service restaurant serving farm-to-table fare, ethically sourced coffee, and craft beers from local breweries as well as their very own house brews. With ample seating within their bright and open space, Oda Restaurant and Brewery is a great meeting place anytime of the day. Stop by for happy hour on weekdays between 4PM and 6PM.
Order: Craft Beers
Hours: Monday – Friday: 6AM – 10PM
Website: barodasf.com
Where to Caffeinate in Mission Bay
Café Réveille
$$ | 610 Long Bridge Street, San Francisco, CA
Just moments away from beautiful Mission Bay Creek Park, Cafe Réveille serves as Réveille Coffee Company’s roasting headquarters. A popular destination for breakfast, brunch, or lunch, enjoy a meal inside the cafe’s bright and lofty interior, or dine on pink table tops outside on sunny days.
Order: Avocado Toast, Mushroom Hash, Matcha Latte
Hours: Weekdays: 7AM – 7PM Weekends: 7:30AM – 7PM
Website: cafereveille.com
Peasant Pies Cafe & Catering
$ | 550 Gene Friend Way, San Francisco, CA
Peasant Pies’ latest storefront and also their catering headquarters located within UCSF Mission Bay’s campus. With a selection of sweet and savory pies baked fresh daily in addition to gluten-free options, Peasant Pies offers guests a nutritious and flavorful alternative to fast food. Dine in or grab a bite to go, this café is great for breakfast, brunch, and lunch.
Order: Beef & Potato Pie, Blueberry Pear Pie, Spinach & Feta Cheese Pie
Hours: Weekdays: 7AM – 6:30PM, Saturday: 8:30AM – 2:30PM, Sunday: Closed
Website: peasantpies.com
Where to Shop in Mission Bay
The Market Hall
$$ | 1101 4th Street, San Francisco, CA
With an in-house restaurant offering a selection of hand crafted pizzas, pasta, and New American fare, in addition to a well curated inventory of top shelf produce, craft beer, and wines, The Market Hall is your one stop shop for all your food needs.
Hours: Weekdays: 10AM – 10PM, Weekends: 9AM – 10PM
Website: themarkethall.com
Where to Play in Mission Bay
Mission Bay Creek Park
451 Berry Street, San Francisco, CA
10 acres of green lawns, shady trees, meandering paths, a boat launch, and sports courts including 1 full basketball court, 2 half courts, a tennis court, and sand volleyball, this beautiful park is great for hanging out on sunny days. There are also restrooms by the sports course and a Pavilion available for those who wish to host private events by the water.
Hours: Daily: 6AM – 10PM
Website: missionbayparks.com
Bakar Fitness Center at UCSF Mission Bay
1675 Owens Street, San Francisco, CA
Home to 2015’s “Best Pool” in the City by San Francisco Magazine, Bakar Fitness Center features 3 stories of state of the art equipment. With 2 swimming pools, NBA regulation sized basketball gymnasium, a climbing wall, a dedicated pilates studio, and of course, their award winning roof-top pool, this Mission Bay gym makes all its peers green with envy.
Hours: Weekdays: 5:30AM – 10PM, Weekends: 7:30AM – 8PM
Website: campuslifeservices.ucsf.edu
Mission Creek Dog Park
485 Berry Street, San Francisco, CA
With an astro-turf and gravel surface mix, Mission Creek Dog Park is a well maintained dog play area, with double gated entrances, trees for shade, and picnic tables for owners to hang out on. Other amenities include free waste bags, waste containers, and water fountains for humans and pups.
Hours: Daily: 7AM – 10PM
Website: missionbayparks.com
Mariposa Park
Mariposa Park: Owens Street, San Francisco, CA
Adjacent to UCSF Benioff Children’s hospital, Mariposa Park spans 2.38 acres of open grass lawns, a kids play area, picnic tables, and a unique pathway shaped as a butterfly wing.
Hours: Daily: Sunrise – 10PM
Website: missionbayparks.com
Mission Bay Kid’s Park
Long Bridge Street & China Basin Street, San Francisco, CA
A vibrant, fenced off playground complete with play structures, log benches, picnic tables, grassy areas, and water fountains. Restrooms are accessible at the Pavilion nearby.
Hours: Daily: 8AM – 9PM
Website: missionbayparks.com
Where to Live in Mission Bay
One Mission Bay
1000 Channel St, San Francisco, CA
Seemlessly blending the boundaries of modern architecture and nature, residents of One Mission Bay are able to admire the City’s busy skyline in the comfort of their homes. With resort-style amenities in addition to a plethora of easily accessible activities, shopping, dining, and an ever growing list of new developments taking place around the neighborhood, One Mission Bay is at the forefront of Mission Bay’s transformation.
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Arden by Bosa
718 Long Bridge, San Francisco, CA
Located directly across from Mission Bay Creek Park, Arden offers a rare waterside opportunity for homeownership in San Francisco. Like its sibling buildings, this beautiful high-rise condominium features an extensive list of luxurious amenities. Close proximity to outdoor activities, shopping, restaurants, and municipal transportation makes Arden a highly desirable property.
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Madrone by Bosa
480 Mission Bay Boulevard, San Francisco, CA
Adjacently located to the Radiance, this luxurious U-shaped property contains two 16 floor towers conjoined by a 9 story building. With a long list of amenities including a beautiful outdoor sundeck where you’ll find a 75 foot pool, attended lobbies, a business center, storage space, common game room, and a fitness studio equipped with steam room and sauna.
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Radiance by Bosa
330 Mission Bay Boulevard, San Francisco, CA
Completed in 2008, the Radiance hosts 99 units primarily composed of 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom homes with floor plans averaging around 1,200 to 1,400 square feet. This pet friendly waterfront building boasts a beautifully landscaped, 8,000± square foot rooftop courtyard equipped with a fire-pit and barbecue area where residents can relax and enjoy breathtaking views of the City. Additional highlights include attended lobbies, club lounge, individual storage, a fitness center, a per unit self parking space, and professional 24 hour security surveillance.
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New Developments in Mission Bay
Warrior’s Chase Center Arena
3rd Street & 16th Street, San Francisco, CA
One of the biggest developments taking place in San Francisco is the brand new Chase Center Arena. Scheduled to open by the start of the NBA’s 2019 – 2020 season, this state of the art multipurpose event center will not only be the future home of our Golden State Warriors, but it’ll also house over 11 acres of offices, retailers, restaurants, public plazas, and more. For more updates and news on project developments, visit their website below.
Website: gswconstruction.com
Bay Front Park
Bay Front Park, San Francisco, CA
The future gateway of the new Warrior’s Chase Center Arena, the Bay Front Park project will give the existing site a complete make over in form of 5.5 acres of vibrant landscaping, green lawns, outdoor recreational activities, vista points, multi-use paths, a shade pavilion, commercial spaces, and a restaurant. The project will better facilitate access to the park, increase community engagement, and create a more sustainable waterfront habitat. The new and improved park is projected to open sometime in 2018.
Website: missionbayparks.com
Mission Rock
100 Terry A Francois Blvd, San Francisco, CA
A joint venture by the San Francisco Giants and the Port of San Francisco, this project development is set to replace current surface lot across the channel from AT&T Park with 8 acres of lush, open space parks, rental homes, small retail shops, cafés, and of course, a brand new parking structure. Not only is this development forecasted to generate over $1 billion in city revenue, but it will also offer protection against rising sea levels. For all you Anchor Brewing fans out there, fear not. The historic brewery will be relocated to Pier 48 where it shall main it’s reign as San Francisco’s oldest and largest manufacturing business. Grand opening is projected to take place sometime in 2025.
Website: missionrock.com
The Exchange
600 16th Street, San Francisco CA
With construction of this 750,000 square foot plaza underway, San Franciscans can look forward to enjoying an exciting new space filled with vibrant roof top gardens where visitors can take in breathtaking views of the city, serene work spaces, and an array of cafés and on-site retailers on the ground level. The Exchange will consist of two 6 story and two 12 story buildings featuring eco-friendly designs with fluid indoor-outdoor transitions. Visit their website for more updates and information.
Website: theexchangesf.com
