San Francisco’s Clement St. is sometimes referred to as the San Francisco’s “2nd Chinatown.” The Richmond district street is home to an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, parks and attractions. It is within walking distance to Golden Gate Park and a range of Richmond area attractions.
Clement Street is in central Richmond District and boasts charming marina style buildings. Locals and visitors love to stroll on Clement Street. The sights, sounds, tastes, and smells captivate young and old. The area has a cosmopolitan history and is home to generations descended from Chinese immigrants.
If you plan to visit, just be aware that parking can be a challenge. If you like to walk, consider parking in a less crowded area of Richmond. Yelp reviewers suggest that visitors should arrive early in the morning to find parking. Otherwise, try an Uber or public transportation.
An Inside Look at the Local Shops of San Francisco’s Clement St.
Green Apple Books is a popular independent bookstore. Browse their collection of new and used books, vinyl records, DVDs, CDs, and audiobooks. Green Apple Books also hosts writer tours and events several evenings a week. Check their website if you are interested in some post-dinner literary culture. Visit: http://www.greenapplebooks.com/
Goodwill. Some Green Apple Books fans also enjoy treasure hunting at the local Goodwill store. One Yelp reviewer describes it as; “Much like Green Apple Books, you never know what you might find.” Visit: http://sfgoodwill.org/
Aroma Tea Ship. Tea lovers enjoy browsing the Aroma Tea Shop. They offer a delicious-smelling range of green tea, white tea, blooming flower tea, jasmine tea and black tea. They also sell Asian tea accessories, trays, and pots. Visit: http://www.aromateashop.com/
There are other boutiques and shops to keep you occupied for hours. Whether you are looking for aquarium fish, flowers, gift items, or clothing, you may find it on Clement Street. All this shopping is bound to make you hungry!
Enjoy A Bite at One of Many Restaurants
As mentioned, Clement is sometimes known as the second Chinatown. However, the food offerings are not only Chinese; the area boasts an abundance of Asian food and other international cuisines presented in a unique San Francisco style.
No trip to Clement Street is complete without trying the Peking Duck at Chili House SF. Many consider it the best Peking Duck in all of San Francisco!
If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to save room for a visit to Toy Boat Dessert Cafe. The eclectic collection of vintage toys entertains “kids” of all ages. The menu of ice cream, cakes, pastries, and desserts satisfies the strongest sweet tooth.
Visit a Park
San Francisco’s Clement St runs from Arguello Blvd, on the Eastern end, to the Lincoln Golf Course and the VA Hospital on the Western End. This means you can start or end your day on Clement with a visit to Golden Gate Park. Enjoy a visit to the Legion of Honor, play a round of golf, or hike the Lands’ End Trail. The Richmond District also contains many playgrounds and parks within a short trip from Clement Street.
Many prefer Clement Street to San Francisco’s Chinatown. The delicious food, eclectic shops, charming boutiques, and seaside vibe all contribute to a memorable experience.
[Image Credit: chim1101 / Instagram]
