Whenever my back’s against the wall and the venom-toothed menace of writing another blog is closing in, I can always turn to San Francisco. Incredible food, loads of attractions, abundant history, friendly people, personality to spare – it’s the kind of place I love to just be (and it’s my blog, so you have to live with it 
).
In recent years, one of the most rapidly-changing attractions in San Francisco has been Ghirardelli Square at Fisherman’s Wharf. An iconic San Francisco landmark with buildings dating back over 100 years, the Ghirardelli Square of today is a buzzing addition to the “urban chic” attitude that appeals to so many West Coasters and, indeed, so many others throughout the country. The former chocolate factory and headquarters to gourmet chocolate magnate Domingo Ghirardelli has been reborn in the modern fires of contemporary elegance, without succumbing to showiness.
Perhaps I’m being too poetic. Ghirardelli Square is a trendy shopping and dining neighborhood near San Francisco Bay. While a major renovation is ongoing, when complete the Square will be home to an eclectic mix of restaurants and wine bars, several notable boutique retailers, and a number of service-providers such as the Peekadoodle Kids Club and Tower Tours.
With so many options, we’ve chosen just a few favorites:
- Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop – The only must-visit on the Square! The namesake attraction, this beloved and historic shop still makes its chocolate the old-fashioned way and on original equipment. Modernized furnishings lose some of the feel, but that won’t stop you from enjoying a sinful sundae.
- Cellar360 – This wine room promises the wine country lifestyle without crossing the city limits, and once you’ve stepped inside, soaked in the warm interior décor and swirled your first glass, you’ll know they’ve done it.
- Kara’s Cupcakes – New York’s Magnolia isn’t the only place known for fun, fanciful and utterly decadent cupcakes. Voted best in San Francisco.
- One of a Kind – An upscale shop that even dad can enjoy, One of a Kind sells handcrafted wood pieces that are truly, well, you know.
- Richter’s – I hope the owners don’t mind me saying it, but Richter’s is the kind of place you want to visit even with no intention of buying at all. Remarkable glass pieces, from practical to conceptual, will dazzle and delight.
The new Ghirardelli Square is a work in progress, so new restaurants, shops and attractions are set to debut throughout the year. If you travel to San Francisco regularly, then you’ll want to make the Square a repeat stop. Learn more about it here.
For San Francisco hotels near Ghirardelli Square, we’ll go with our favorite choices in the Bay area:
Both hotels (they’re neighbors) offer easy walking distance to Ghirardelli Square, not to mention everything else that the Fisherman’s Wharf district has to offer, which is a lot.
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4 Comments
I must say I am not a chocolate lover, but visit to Ghirardelli Square was on a must-see list for me.
For the ultimate in sweet treats, be sure to order the Earthquake sundae at Ghirardelli Ice Cream shop which we tried last time. 8 scoops of ice cream and 8 toppings are served in a pan that could bake a pizza! Prepare yourself for the sugar rush!
Make sure you walk behind Ghirardelli Square and walk along the water front. The beach and boats are gorgeous.
Matt Bamberg
Author, http://www.amazon.com/Greatest-Photo-Opportunities-San-Francisco/dp/1598638009
Thanks, all.
I’m glad to see you’re feeling Ghirardelli Square (and San Fran) the way I do.
Michelle, your story reminds me of “Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure”, when Ted’s brother took Napolean to that ice cream shop and ordered this monstrosity with somehting like 20 scoops. And he finished it!
Man, I love that movie.
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