Street Wise: A Stop-by-Stop Guide to Valencia Street, San Francisco

A striking mural to the rear of this Beaux-Arts flat-iron building only hints at the wonderland of exuberant design that lies within. Rock-star interior designer Kelly Wearstler pulled out all the stops when it came to decking out this gloriously over-the-top hotel. But it’s not all just style and sparkle, offering rooms bursting with luxury-level comforts like designer toiletries and Italian linens. It’s the rooftop lounge that really steals the show, with its indoor-outdoor bar, restaurant and flaming fire pit – it’s among the most glamorous spots in town. And all just a trot from Valencia Street.

There are thrift stores, and there are San Fran thrift stores. Something about the Bay Area generates some of the best bargain-rummaging outlets in the US, and this one on Valencia is no different. The space is a cavern of well-organized second (third? fourth?) -hand clothes, furniture, records, homeware, books and bits and bobs. You can find some real treasures if you put in the hunting time, plus you can leave aglow with the knowledge your greenbacks are going to a good cause.

Few restaurants reach the ripe old age of 25 without having a winning formula. At this popular taqueria, it’s great-value authentic Mexican food in generous portions. Besides a jungle-themed mural as you enter, the family-owned corner restaurant has an unfussy cantina feel. A comprehensive is crammed full of Mexican staples like enchiladas, quesadillas, tamales and, of course, tacos. If you’ve really got the munchies, their burritos are huge and touted as some of the Bay Area’s best.

Linking Valencia with Mission Street, this marvelous mural-filled alleyway provides an eye-pleasing distraction as you cruise down Valencia Street. It’s a full 560ft (52m) of socially engaged public art that stretches the whole length of the block. All but two of the properties along Clarion Alley have given permission to be painted on and there have been over 900 since the project began. Book yourself onto a tour if you want to know more about its history and the murals currently on view.

Harking back to San Fran’s Sixties heyday, this glamorous retro-themed neighborhood cocktail bar channels the spirit of those groovier times. The drinks menu draws heavily on era-appropriate cocktails, with names like Thunderbird and Centerfold, supplemented by a dizzying choice of spirits – tequila and mezcal are particularly well represented. The mid-century vibe extends to the food menu, too, which includes a choice of that most vintage of dishes: cheese fondue.

Despite the rise of to-your-door deliveries, San Francisco’s love of the bricks-and-mortar bookstore remains unwavering. This literary landmark has been feeding the city’s book appetite since 1992 with its lovingly curated and comprehensive collection of new and used books. A sense of hushed-yet-friendly calm draws in shoppers for browsing, with everything from the latest bestsellers to offbeat small press and local literature.

If you prefer your tacos more on the refined side, then Loló has elevated Mexican cuisine to deliciously sophisticated heights. Their menu is largely inspired by the food of Mexico’s Pacific and a blend of Jalisco-California flavors. Playful interiors are infused with a touch of magical realism, while their small-plate dishes are just as beautifully presented. Topping it all off is one of the best selections of agave-based spirits in San Fran.

Lines outside a bakery can only mean one thing – their goods are worth the wait. At this worker-owned cooperative, you don’t usually have to queue too long: lines move quickly but testify to the doughy delights within. They keep the menu tight but changing daily, so you’ll get the likes of cinnamon raisin brioche one day and walnut sourdough the next. They stick to one pizza that changes each day, saving you the trouble of choosing. Just get in line: it’s worth it.

It’s no secret that San Francisco has become one of the priciest cities in the US, but thankfully there are still places like 1906 Mission that won’t break the bank. This simple-yet-modern B&B occupies a charming Victorian house, built in the aftermath of the great 1906 earthquake, hence the name. Eco-friendly rooms are clean, bright and comfy, and all bathrooms are shared. A free breakfast selection of bagels, muffins, cereals and fruits sets you up for exploring Valencia Street, a couple of minutes away.