Noe Valley
The History
The Park
Douglass Park is Noe Valley’s largest and most popular park (although Dolores Park is a quick jaunt away), and you’ll find many families enjoying it throughout the week. Getting there is its own workout. The climb is well worth the view, even if you don’t have tots in tow.
The Market
Proximity to Silicon Valley and downtown SF, sunny weather, and charming residential streets combine synergistically to create a highly localized real estate boom.
The Restaurants
Firefly Restaurant
San Francisco, CA 94114
Still glittering after 25 years on the dark edges of the city, Firefly is a magical spot where you can actually reserve a table and hear your date speak. The menu is veggie verging on hippie in the best way possible: sourdough comes with a garlicky bean spread, starters often include scallop dumplings or daikon cakes, and the thick-cut pork chop and fried chicken—with a “damn good biscuit”—rarely disappoint.
The Little Chihuahua
San Francisco, CA 94114
Not to compete with the Mission, but if a craving hits closer to home, Little Chihuahua rolls a mean burrito. The fried plantain and black bean special has a fan following, and if you’re not too drunk and ravenous, make it a baby portion. Of the three locations, this one has a heated back patio, where you can literally bring your chihuahua.
Vive la Tarte
San Francisco, CA 94114
There are several reasonable croissants on 24th Street, but this bakery boasts the most precise layers. One of the owners is from Belgium, but the vibe is all Cali, with white marble counters and lush plants. Dig into the breakfast and lunch menu, complete with kale salad, avocado toast, and eggs Benedict, washed down with turmeric lattes, kombucha, and natural wine.
Saru Sushi Bar
San Francisco, CA 94114
Unfortunately, this tiny sushi spot isn’t a well-kept secret, and its snug counter and few tables fill up quickly. No reservations, but they will take your number, so you don’t have to huddle under a heat lamp. Dip into the tasting menus, truffled hamachi, and popcorn tuna, or catch a lunch deal.
Noe Valley Farmers’ Market: Local organic farmers sell fruit, vegetables, nuts and honey on Saturdays from 8 a.m. ’til Noon, rain or shine. Live bluegrass music, plus information about organic, sustainable farming and updates on the closure of Real Food market on 24th St.. In the New Noe Valley Ministry parking lot, at 24th Street between Vicksburg and Sanchez. (Web site)