Valentine’s Day in San Francisco For Dummies
While Valentine’s Day may be of the most commercialized holidays in the world, it’s a great reason to remember why—and how—two individuals found each other in this crazy world, and were able to fall in love against all odds. (Cue Rihanna and Calvin Harris’ “We Found Love.”)
This guide will hopefully remind you of the place where the two of your first laid eyes on each other, where you shared your first meal, maybe even the place where you had your first kiss. Wherever you two do go, remember to cherish each other and treat each other right. And, perhaps most importantly, have a very San Francisco Valentine’s Day!
Where to Buy Flowers in San Francisco
Nothing says “I love you” like a beautiful bouquet of flowers, right?
This Valentine’s Day, don’t shop up empty-handed, fellas! Show your loved one you care, and that they are appreciated. Here are five favorite local florists that will help you pick out and create the perfect arrangement… even if you have no idea what the heck you’re doing. They also offer delivery services, in case you want to earn some brownie points by surprising her at work. Wink, wink. Nudge, nudge. ?
Frank’s Floral Shop
$$ | 1821 Irving Street, San Francisco, CA
Since 1934, Frank’s Floral Shop has been helping San Franciscans make every special occasion a memorable one. With friendly service and a great selection from which to choose from, stop by Frank’s Floral Shop this Valentine’s Day for a bouquet your loved one will appreciate.
Delivery: Yes | Hours: Monday-Saturday: 9:30AM–6:00PM | Website: www.franksfloral.com | Call: (415) 664-0400
Farmgirl Flowers
$$ | 901 16th Street, San Francisco, CA
Keen attention to detail, exceptional customer service, and designer quality flower arrangements with unique presentation is what Farmgirl Flowers delivers with each and every order.
Delivery: Yes | Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00AM–4:00PM, Saturday: 9:00AM–12:00PM | Website: www.farmgirlflowers.com | Call: (855) 202-3817
Church Street Flowers
$$ | 950 Battery Street, San Francisco, CA
A local favorite, Church Street Flowers has a team of knowledgable florists that designs wonderful arrangements for any occasion. Pay them a visit or give them a call for your all your Valentine’s needs.
Delivery: Yes | Hours: Monday-Friday: 9:00AM–5:00PM | Website: www.churchstreetflowers.com | Call: (415) 434-3427
Mission de Flores
$$ | 2590 Folsom Street, San Francisco, CA
Opened in 2013, Mission de Flores was one of the first flower shops in the Mission District. For the past 4 years, Mission de Flores has been providing clients with unparalleled customer service and flawless arrangements created with only the freshest flowers. Mission de Flores also offers free San Francisco deliveries so be sure to visit their website or give them a call this Valentine’s Day.
Delivery: Yes | Hours: Monday-Friday: 9:00AM–8:00PM, Saturday-Sunday: 10:00AM–7:00PM | Website: www.missiondeflores.com | Call:(415) 829-9886
Not Just Flowers
$$ | 4109 18th Street San Francisco, CA
A luxury flower boutique, Not Just Flowers has a wide selection of flowers, potted plants, and orchids you can choose from to create the perfect bouquet. They also offer same day delivery for all your floral needs.
Delivery: Yes | Hours: Monday-Thursday: 8:00AM–8:00PM, Friday-Saturday: 8:00AM–9:00PM, Sunday: 9:00AM–7:00PM | Website: www.notjustflowerscastro.com | Call: (415) 864-3134
Where to Buy Valentine’s Chocolates in San Francisco
The sweetest gift for the sweetest person in your life. Chocolate has been a must on Valentine’s Day since the 1800’s when Richard Cadbury, founder of the then Cadbury Cocoa & Chocolate Company, started a dedicated marketing campaign to connect the two dots.
Today, we give our loved one’s chocolates because it’s a sweet gesture and, well, because they’re delicious. Grab a beautiful box of chocolate from these brilliant chocolatiers this Valentine’s Day for a gift both of you will definitely enjoy.
Dandelion Chocolate
$$ | 740 Valencia Street, San Francisco, CA
Opened in 2010, Dandelion Chocolate creates unique small batch craft chocolates and confectionery delicacies from scratch in their Mission District factory. With an ever changing menu of drinks and treats, you’re sure to find something unique this Valentines Day. Schedule a tour/class at their factory in the Mission, or visit their stand in the Ferry Building where you can pick up some of their sweets and have a cup of their famous hot chocolate.
Order: Valentine’s Day Macaron Box | Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 10:00AM–9:00PM, Friday-Saturday: 10:00AM–10:00PM | Website: www.dandelionchocolate.com | Call: (415) 349-0942
XOX Truffles
$ | 754 Columbus Avenue, San Francisco, CA
Derived from a love story of its’ own when owners Chef Jean-Marc Gorce and Casimira N. Tobilla met at a food show in 1996, XOX Truffles has become one of the San Francisco’s most beloved chocolate establishments with their high quality and low price delights. Chef Gorce has concocted 27 flavors over the past decade and continues to be innovative with his craft. XOX Truffles also has a selection of soy / vegan treats.
Order: Coconut, Earl Grey, Cayenne Tequila | Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10:00AM–7:00PM, Sunday: 10:30AM – 6:00PM | Website: www.xoxtruffles.com | Call: (415) 421-4814
Charles Chocolates
$$ | 535 Florida Street, San Francisco, CA
Crafting freshly made chocolates with only the finest ingredients is what Chuck Siegel, founder of Charles Chocolates sets out to do on a daily basis. Charles Chocolates offers an array chocolate bars and chocolate covered nuts that are to die for. Grab a box of their unique edible boxes this Valentines Day, for a gift that will leave your loved one wanting more.
Order: Valentine’s Day Collection Edible Chocolate Box, Hearts Collection, Meltaway Collection | Hours: Monday-Sunday: 11:00AM–7:00PM | Website: www.charleschocolates.com | Call: (415) 659-8770
Christopher Elbow
$$$ | 401 Hayes Street, San Francisco, CA
Chef Christopher Elbow creates gourmet artisanal chocolates that are almost too beautiful to eat. Chef Elbow innovatively infuses various spices, fruits, and exotic flavors with his rich and creamy chocolates that will have you craving them 24/7. Each piece of chocolate you receive is uniquely decorated and polished to perfection. A box of chocolates from Christopher Elbow will definitely impress your loved one this Valentine’s Day.
Order: 6 Piece Valentine’s Single Origin Collection, Valentine’s Luxury Gift Box, 18 Piece Valentine’s Chocolate Heart Collection | Hours: Sunday-Monday: 12:00PM–6PM, Tuesday-Saturday: 11:00AM–8:00PM | Website: www.elbowchocolates.com | Call: (415) 355-1105
Recchuiti Confections
$$$ | 1 Ferry Building Shop 30, San Francisco, CA
Since 1997 Recchiuti has been handcrafting beautiful confections right here in San Francisco’s Dogpatch neighborhood. Their flagship store is located in the Ferry Building and it’s there where you’ll be able to create your own custom box of Recchiuti truffles. Pick out your box, add your desired artwork to be printed onto each piece, and add embellishments to give your loved one a personalized gift they’ll never forget.
Order: Custom Box of Chocolate, Hearts + Roses Box, Valentine’s Platinum Collection | Hours: Monday-Friday: 10:00AM–7:00PM, Saturday: 8:00AM–6:00PM, Sunday: 10:00AM–5:00PM | Website: www.recchiuti.com | Call: (415) 834-9494
Romantic Valentine’s Restaurants in San Francisco
A wise person once said that the easiest way to a man or woman’s heart is through his or her stomach.
Take your loved one out this Valentine’s Day for an unforgettable dining experience at one of these fabulous restaurants in the City. From breakfast on lovely patios to dinner with panoramic views of the Bay, we’ve got you covered on your special day.
Breakfast | Brunch
Zazie
$$ | 941 Cole Street, San Francisco, CA
A cute French bistro located in Cole Valley, Zazie has been well known for their brunch items since 1992. Share a nice brunch with your better half on their beautiful outdoor patio, or attend their Valentine’s Dinner, which ever you prefer, you can expect a wonderful dining experience.
Order: French Toast Tahiti, Miracle Pancakes, Avignon | Hours: Monday-Thursday: 8:00AM–2:00PM & 5:00PM–9:30PM, Friday: 8:00AM–2:00PM & 5:00PM–10:00PM, Saturday 9:00AM–3:00PM & 5:00PM–10:00PM, Sunday: 9:00AM–3:00PM & 5:00PM–9:30PM | Website: www.zaziesf.com
Mama’s on Washington Square
$$ | 1701 Stockton Street, San Francisco, CA
For over 50 years, Mama’s has made breakfast a tradition with an array of delicious fresh baked bread & pastries, homemade jam, and the fluffiest omelettes.
Order: Monte Cristo, Dungeness Crab Egg Benedict, Pan Dore French Toast | Hours: Tuesday-Sunday: 8:00AM–3:00PM | Website: www.mamas-sf.com
Park Chow
$$ | 1240 9th Avenue San Francisco, CA
Located just steps away from beautiful Golden Gate Park, Park Chow is a cozy eatery serving up tasty traditional American dishes made with fresh organic ingredients. Brunch on their upstairs patio styled dining area makes for a romantic meal.
Order: Cobb Salad, Eggs Benedict, Smoked Salmon Hash | Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 8:00AM–9:30PM, Friday-Saturday: 8:00AM–10:00PM | Website: www.chowfoodbar.com
Sweet Maple
$$ | 2101 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA
Sweet Maple is a cozy & intimate breakfast / brunch spot serving homemade dishes using only the best locally sourced ingredients. Be sure to try their signature famous “Millionaire’s Bacon” during your visit!
Order: Millionaire’s Bacon, Herb Roasted Potato Medley | Hours: Monday-Sunday: 8:00AM–3:00PM | Website: www.sweetmaplesf.com
Stacks
$$ | 501 Hayes Street, San Francisco, CA
Since 1992 “simple, old-fashioned American hospitality & principles” is what Stacks delivers exceptionally well. With hearty proportions and delicious options, Stacks has become one of San Francisco’s favorite breakfast and brunch spots.
Order: King Crab Panini, Super Omelets, Eggs Benedict, Old-Fashioned Belgian Waffles | Hours: Monday-Friday: 7:00AM–2:30PM, Saturday-Sunday: 7:00AM–3:30PM | Website: www.stacksrestaurant.com
Lunch
Hog Island Oyster Co
$$ | 1 Ferry Building Shop 11, San Francisco, CA
If you’re a fan of fresh great tasting oysters & clams, this wonderful waterside seafood eatery boasting beautiful views of the bay is the place to go.
Order: Oysters, Grilled Cheese | Hours: Monday-Sunday: 11:00AM–9:00PM | Website: www.hogislandoysters.com
The Beach Chalet Brewery & Restaurant
$$ | 1000 Great Highway, San Francisco, CA
There’s nothing more romantic than lunch with an oceanside view. Located right across the street from Ocean Beach, Beach Chalet Brewery & Restaurant offers a lovely lunch menu with an array of seafood and traditional items to choose from. Its’ convenient location also opens up options for an after-lunch stroll on the beach or around Golden Gate Park if the weather permits.
Order: Chalet Cioppino, VFW Beer Battered Fish + Chips | Hours: Monday-Thursday: 9:00AM–10:00PM, Friday: 9:00AM–11:00PM, Saturday: 8:00AM–11:00PM, Sunday: 8:00AM–10:00PM | Website: www.beachchalet.com
Sociale
$$$ | 3665 Sacramento Street, San Francisco, CA
Tucked away in a side alley, you might have walked by without giving this adorable Northern Italian eatery much thought. Sociale is a local favorite offering guests terrific Italian fare with great wine-pairings in an intimate setting making it the perfect Valentine’s lunch / dinner spot.
Order: Pappardelle with Braised Duck | Hours: Monday: 5:30–10:00PM, Tuesday-Saturday: 11:30AM–2:30PM & 5:30PM–10:00PM | Website: www.sfsociale.com
Spruce
$$$$ | 3640 Sacramento Street, San Francisco, CA
Located in the affluent Presidio Heights neighborhood, Spruce is an upscale restaurant with fine California-inspired cuisine made with the freshest finest locally sourced ingredients. With one of the most beautiful dining rooms in San Francisco.
Order: Beignets, Crispy Duck Fat Potatoes, Spruce Burger | Hours: Monday-Friday: 11:30AM–2:00PM & 5:00PM–10:00PM, Saturday: 5:00PM–11:00PM, Sunday: 10:00AM–2:00PM & 5:00PM–9:00PM | Website: www.sprucesf.com
Zuni Café
$$$ | 1658 Market Street, San Francisco, CA
Founded in 1979, Zuni Café is a wonderful bistro with a Southwestern themed interior located on the upbeat Market Street specializing in wood-fired fare. With a daily changing menu inspired by seasonal ingredients, you’re sure to have a special dining experience this Valentine’s Day.
Order: Zuni Caesar Salad, Devil’s Gulch Ranch Rabbit, Chicken for 2 Roasted in the Brick Oven | Hours: Tuesday-Thursday: 11:30AM–11PM, Friday-Saturday: 11:30AM–12:00AM, Sunday: 11:00AM–11:00PM | Website: www.zunicafe.com
Dinner
Cliff House
$$ | 1090 Point Lobos Avenue, San Francisco, CA
Located right above the Sutro Bath Ruins at Point Lobos, the world-famous Cliff House Bistro is one of the best places to take a date with great food and breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific.
Order: Fish & Chips, Cliff House Cioppino, Fruitti de Mare, Cliff House Bistro Burger | Hours: Monday-Saturday: 9:00AM–9:30PM, Sunday: 8:30AM–9:30PM | Website: www.cliffhouse.com
Coqueta
$$$ | The Embarcadero Pier 5, San Francisco, CA
The Spanish word for “flirt” or “infatuation”, Coqueta was opened in 2013 by award winning chef Michael Chiarello. With optional outdoor patio seating, this upscale waterfront restaurant offers guests an excellent array of tapas and family style plates accompanied by romantic views of the bay.
Order: Paella, Chorizo, Patatas Bravas | Hours: Monday: 4:00PM–10:00PM, Tuesday-Wednesday & Sunday: 11:30AM–10:00PM, Thursday-Saturday: 11:30AM–11:00PM | Website: www.coquetasf.com
Epic Steak
$$$ | 369 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA
With sweeping views of the Bay and award-winning, innovative steakhouse cuisines, Epic Steak offers guests a dramatic dining experience they’ll never forget.
Order: Epic Meal For Two, A5 Miyazaki Wagyu Steak | Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11:30AM–9:30PM, Friday: 11:30AM–10:00PM, Saturday: 11:00AM–10:00PM, Sunday: 11:00AM–9:30PM | Website: www.epicsteak.com
McCormik & Kuleto’s
$$$ | 900 North Point Street, San Francisco, CA
Located in San Francisco’s historic Ghiradelli Square, McCormik & Kuleto’s offers guests a wide selection of dishes from fresh salads and seafood to mouth watering aged steaks. The restaurant’s prime location boasts panning views of the Bay, Alcatraz Island, and the Marina, making it one of the most romantic spots in the city. You can also stop by Ghirardelli for dessert to end the night on a sweet note.
Order: Dungeness Crab Cakes, Lobster Bisque, Halibut | Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 11:30AM–10:00PM, Friday-Saturday: 11:30AM–11:00PM | Website: www.mccormickandschmicks.com
Slanted Door
$$$ | 1 Ferry Building Shop 3, San Francisco, CA
Fabulously located along the waterfront in the Ferry Building, Slanted Door is a spacious contemporary Vietnamese restaurant with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the Bay. This award winning restaurant owned by Chef Charles Pan offers a wide contrasting menu from Vietnamese street food to elegant and delicious meat and seafood entrees.
Order: Cellophane Noodels, Slanted Door Spring Rolls, Grass-fed Estancia Shaking Beef | Hours: Monday-Friday: 11:00AM–10:00PM, Saturday-Sunday: 11:30AM–10:00PM | Website: www.slanteddoor.com
Romantic Hikes & Views
Long conversations about life, world outlooks, or just about how each of yours day went. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll or just sitting on a nearby bench, these conversations are made 100-times better when in the presence of breath taking views. Visit The 15 Most Incredible & Romantic Views in the Bay Area for ideas on where to take in the views.