No Man’s Land: A Guide to San Francisco’s Divisadero Corridor

The word “hybrid” springs to mind when describing San Francisco’s Divisadero Corridor.

Divisadero is both a commercial thoroughfare and a border for several distinct neighborhoods, aptly making it a corridor. However, it feels as if someone tried to squeeze an entire universe into one street, without being the least bit stifling. In fact, it’s a delightful blend of busy and breathable, an unintimidating mélange of characteristics both urban and small-town.

⬇️ Keep scrolling for the best places to eat, drink, shop, and more on Divisadero ⬇️

The charming avenue has a bubbly personality, and is dotted with chic restaurants, hip bars, cool cafes, and curiosity shops. There are even a couple parklets in the microhood, which are basically a world-changing San Francisco invention that began on Divis. Notably, the parklet in front of Mojo Café is the first in San Francisco, and therefore the world. Since the inception of the first parklet on Divis, many more have popped up locally and internationally.

With all the Divisadero Corridor has to offer, this beautifully maintained street is arguably one of the best in San Francisco. From tattoo parlors to trendy salons, this vibrant thoroughfare carries its own little world, offering everything you’ll need within the span of a few blocks. As if that wasn’t enough, just a couple blocks off Divisadero you’ll find Haight-Ashbury, Buena Vista Park, The Panhandle, Golden Gate Park, and most importantly, Alamo Square Park.

Things weren’t always this way, however. Like the rest of the City, the neighborhood has evolved dramatically over the past two decades. The emergence of acclaimed eatery Nopa in 2006 was a game-changer for the corridor, as it began to attract a flocks of new crowds to the corner of Divisadero and Hayes, instigating a total cultural facelift.

And the metamorphosis of Divisadero is far from over. Several major developments are in the works, from major residential developments like 650 Grove Street and 400 Divisadero, to a multitude of retails joints and eateries. The Harding Theatre is currently being restored and converted into a “barcade” called Emporium. In addition to these developments, businesses like Zaytoon, Boba Guys, Sightglass Coffee are finding homes in various storefronts along the thoroughfare.

Considering all the excellent dining, drinking, shopping, and entertainment options, Divisadero is both a great place to call home, and a fabulous neighborhood to spend a day. You can picnic in Alamo Square Park, head over two blocks to Divisadero to get a lamb sandwich at Souvla, or even a new outfit at Tanner Goods or Onyx. You can even catch a show at the Independent, look at art while getting buzzed at Madrone, or rest your feet at one of the parklets. And, as soon as you’re yearning for something new, you can take a brisk walk to Hayes Valley for a totally different neighborhood experience.

Where to Eat on Divisadero

Nopa
$$$ | 560 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
The critically-acclaimed restaurant that transformed the Divisadero from not to hot back in 2006, Nopa specializes in locally sourced, organic, wood-fired cuisine. With an ever changing menu created through a collaborative effort from their team of passionate chefs weekly, Nopa truly offers one of the most special dining experiences in the City. Reservations are HIGHLY recommended for brunch and dinner.
Order: Pork Chop, Smoked Trout
Hours: Monday-Thursday: 5PM–12AM, Friday: 5PM–1AM, Saturday: 11AM–1AM, Sunday: 11AM–12AM
Website: nopasf.com

Little Star Pizza
$$ | 846 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
Little Star Pizza is a local chain serving up delicious specialty deep dish and thin crust pies on a seasonal basis. This upper-crust pizza joint also has a nightly happy hour with $4.50 tap beers and $6 glasses of wine.
Order: Yukon Golds & Bacon Pizza
Hours: Monday-Thursday: 5–9:30PM, Friday: 4–10:30PM, Saturday: 3–10:30PM, Sunday: 3–9:30PM
Website: littlestarpizza.com

The Little Chihuahua
$$ | 292 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
A small restaurant located at the southern end of Divisadero Street, The Little Chihuahua serves delicious Tex-Mex and traditional Mexican cuisine with vegetarian options and a fantastic salsa bar. Great for a casual weekday dinner or for take-out to eat in Alamo Square Park.
Order: Garlic Shrimp Burrito, Super Burrito, Fried Plantain & Black Bean Burrito
Hours: Weekdays: 11AM–11PM, Weekends: 10AM–11PM
Website: thelittlechihuahua.com

4505 Meats & BBQ
$$ | 705 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
Serving sweet, juicy, high quality meats smoked and slow roasted in a historic wood-fired barbecued pit 7 days a week. Dine-in on their outdoor patio or order to go, 4505 Meats & BBQ is great for the family and they also have a great selection of beers.
Order: Brisket, Frankaroni, Pork Shoulder, Cheeseburger
Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 10:30AM–10PM, Friday-Saturday: 10:30AM–11PM
Website: 4505meats.com

Ragazza
$$ | 311 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
Specializing in Neopolitan-style thin crust pizzas, antipasti, baked pastas, and seasonal salads, Ragazza is a casual Italian restaurant with friendly, attentive service. Large parties with 6 or more guests are able to make reservations to dine in their heated enclosed gazebo for a unique dining experience.
Order: Amatriciana Pie, Moto Pie, Margherita Pie
Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 5–10PM, Friday-Saturday: 5–10:30PM
Website: ragazzasf.com

Souvla
$$ | 531 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
A must try, Greek and Mediterranean restaurant, Souvla offers a selection Greek wines and beers in addition to their wonderful wraps and salads served with rotisserie roasted meats. Though indoor seating is limited, Souvla also has a beautiful outdoor patio with heating. Be sure to also check out their other locations in the Mission and Hayes Valley.
Order: Greek Fries, Lamb Salad, Baklava Crumbles & Honey Syrup
Hours: 11AM–10PM, Daily
Website: souvlasf.com

Where to Drink on Divisadero

Horsefeather
$$ | 528 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
A cocktail bar with an American arts and craft period inspired interior design, serving well executed cocktails made with house made syrups and fresh ingredients. Horsefeather also offers New American fare daily and a fabulous brunch menu on weekends from 11AM – 4PM.
Order: Strawberry Hill, Buckfast, Tuna Poké Bowl, Fried Chicken
Hours: Weekdays: 5PM–2AM, Weekends: 11AM–2AM
Website: horsefeatherbar.com

The Page
$ | 298 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
With a deer head on the wall, 23 beers on tap, great service, pool and foosball tables, in addition to heavy pours and an endless jukebox playing all your favorite hits, The Page is a terrific option when on Divisadero. Cash only.
Order: Beer
Hours: 4PM–2AM, Daily
Website: thepagebar.com

Madrone Art Bar
$$ | 500 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
As artsy and boozy as its name dictates, Madrone Art Bar is the only place you’ll find a Burberry AK-47 and wall mounted deer heads with more AK-47s for antlers. Dance the night away in one of the best decorated, never desolated venues in the city.
Order: Mules
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 4PM–2AM, Sunday: 3PM–2AM
Website: madroneartbar.com

The Independent
$$ | 628 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
Since 2004, The Independent has played host to thousands of bands and best up and coming artists from around the world. Recognized for having one of the best sound and lighting systems in the Bay Area, this intimate venue has a captivating atmosphere, wonderful staff team, and a great selection of booze at their bar. Must be 21+ to enter.
Hours: Hours dependent on event calendar
Website: theindependentsf.com

Where to Caffeinate on Divisadero

The Mill
$$ | 736 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
A bright and spacious café serving bread baked daily by Josey Baker Bread and coffee from Four Barrel Coffee. Snag one of their fantastic sandwiches for lunch, or stop by on Monday and Wednesday nights for pizza night. With ample seating inside and a parklet out front, The Mill is a great place to hang out with friends or catch up on some reading. There is no Wi-Fi on site.
Order: Dark Mountain Rye Bread, Country Toast
Hours: 7AM–9PM, Daily
Website: themillsf.com

Mojo Bicycle Cafe
$ | 639 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
A casual café at the space’s forefront serving coffee by Ritual Coffee along with terrific breakfast and lunch fare. You’ll also find a brilliant bike shop at the space’s rear where you’ll find various bicycle equipment and a service shop. Stop by for their daily happy hour between 3PM – 5PM for $2 off draft pints on weekdays and $1 off on weekends. Mojo Bicycle Café also frequently hosts an array of live music events for your enjoyment. The café has a no laptop policy.
Order: Le Marocain, Le Croque Mojo
Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 9AM–9PM, Thursday: 9AM–10PM, Friday & Saturday: 8AM–10PM, Sunday: 8AM–9PM
Website: mojobicyclecafe.com

Bean Bag Café
$ | 601 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
Great for breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch, Bean Bag Café serves an array of original dishes made with fresh locally sourced ingredients. The café offers ample seating and free Wi-Fi, though it may not be the best work space as it tends to get loud when crowded. Stop by for their fantastic happy hour between 3PM – 10PM entailing $3 draft beers.
Order: Falafel Appetizer, Baja Scramble, Oceans Benedict
Hours: Weekdays: 7AM–10PM, Saturday: 7:30AM–10PM, Sunday: 8AM–10PM
Website: beanbag.cafe

Vinyl Coffee & Wine Bar
$$ | 359 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
A popular neighborhood coffee house and wine bar serving craft beers, an array of locally sourced and imported wines, and artisan caffeinated beverages. Vinyl Coffee & Wine Bar fosters a sense of community by acting as a social hub, hosting various events throughout the week.
Order: El Bagel Grande, Chicken & Waffle Sandwich (Sunday)
Hours: Monday – Thursday: 7AM–11PM, Friday: 7AM–12AM, Saturday: 8AM–12AM, Sunday: 8AM–11PM
Website: Facebook

Repose
$$ | 262 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
A specialty coffee shop with an Instagram worthy, classic Parisan Gothic interior design. Repose has terrific baristas brewing caffeinated beverages locally sourced from their partner, Flying Goat Coffee. Repose also offers quick bites from Dynamo Donuts (available only on Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and Batter Bakery. Though seating inside is limited, a beautiful parklet just outside offers visitors a fantastic alternative on nice sunny days.
Order: Japanese Iced Coffee, Espresso No. 9, Maple Glazed Bacon Apple Donut
Hours: Weekdays: 7AM–4PM, Weekends: 8AM–4PM
Website: reposecoffee.com

Where to Shop on Divisadero

Bi-Rite Market
$$ | 550 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
This celebrated neighborhood market garners raves for its locally sourced grocery items and homemade fare. Head here before (or after) going to Alamo Square Park to stock up on wine/beer, sandwiches, and—more importantly—ice cream. And don’t forget to pick up a copy of their Eat Good Food cookbook.
Hours: 8AM–9PM, Daily
Website: biritemarket.com

Tanner Goods
$$$ | 651 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
Timeless designs made with top notch materials that age like fine wine, Tanner Goods carries an array of leather goods, bags, and fashionable apparel for men and women.
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 11AM–7PM, Sunday: 11AM–6PM
Website: tannergoods.com

Rare Device
$$ | 600 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
The perfect place to find useful, well designed, and handmade goods for all ages. Rare Device also hosts monthly art shows and community events, like book signings, workshops, monthly events for kids, and trunk shows.
Hours: Monday-Friday: 12–8PM, Saturday: 11AM–7PM, Sunday: 11AM–6PM
Website: raredevice.net

Gamescape
$$ | 333 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
Providing San Francisco with games from jigsaw puzzles to role playing games since 1985, Gamescape houses an inventory of hard to find small box brands, and they also host a multitude of game nights open to the community. If you’re not sure what you’re looking for going in, Gamescape’s knowledgable staff members will gladly assist you in finding the perfect game for you1.
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10AM–7PM, Sunday: 11AM–5PM
Website: gamescapesf.com

Topo Designs
$$$ | 645 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
High quality, fashionable, and made in the USA, this Colorado based brand carries a wide selection of bags, sportswear and accessories for men and women, meant to withstand any curve balls mother nature throws at you. A beautiful interior design and exceptional customer service makes this store a must visit.
Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11AM–7PM, Friday & Saturday: 11AM–8PM, Sunday: 11AM–6PM
Website: topodesigns.com

Black Nose Trading Co.
342 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
A brilliant one-stop-shop for dogs with a carefully curated inventory of food, toys, furniture, and accessories. Upon your visit to Black Nose Trading Co, you’ll be greeted a team of very helpful, knowledgable, and friendly staff members. The store also offers an array of services like self-serve bathing, day care, dog walking, and overnight boarding with reasonable rates.
Hours: Weekdays: 7AM–7PM, Saturday: 10AM–7PM, Sunday: 11AM–7PM
Website: blacknosetrading.com

Onyx
$$ | 289 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
A chic boutique carrying a well curated selection of men’s and women’s apparel, accessories, and skin care varieties. Upon entering the store, shoppers greeted by friendly and helpful staff members who are always willing to help find what you need or put together that perfect outfit for any occasion.
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 12PM–7PM, Sunday: 12PM–6PM
Website: Yelp

The Perish Trust
$$ | 728 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
Showing San Francisco that new isn’t always better, The Perish Trust carries a carefully curated inventory of unique, antique houseware and outdoor pieces with California heritage designs sourced from local craftsmen.
Hours: 11AM–6PM, Daily
Website: theperishtrust.com

Where to Sweat on Divisadero

Salt 
327 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
Led by a squad of passionate instructors, Salt offers an array of full body group workout classes including prenatal training, choreographed to the beat of heart pumping music that’ll have you leaving invigorated and accomplished. If you think you have what it takes, try their Barre Fight++ class which entails an hour long high intensity class intended to help you develop strong mobile joints and build leaner muscles.
Hours: Times vary depending on class schedules
Website: saltisthecure.com

Where to Clean Up on Divisadero

Population Salon
$$ | 537 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
“Music, style, and beauty”, Population Salon has a team of amazing hair stylists who’ll have you feeling like a million bucks when you look in the mirror. Appointments only.
Hours: Monday–Friday: 11AM–7:30PM, Saturday: 11AM–7PM, Closed on Sundays
Website: populationsalon.com

JP Kempt Barber Social
$$ | 351 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA
Considered”one of the best barbers in the country” by Esquire, Shorty Maniace and his team of exceptional barbers offer fashionable haircuts with high quality service. This full service traditional barbershop offers guests a warm yet masculine environment and has the leaving looking clean and dapper. Drop-ins are accepted though appointments are recommended.
Hours: Weekdays: 10AM–6:30PM, Saturday: 9AM–5PM, Sunday: 10AM–6PM
Website: jpkempt.com