Hayes Valley

The neighborhood’s sweet spot stretches for only a few blocks, but those few blocks are jam-packed with lust-worthy boutiques (especially if shoes and design are your jam) and bustling restaurants.

EXPLORE ANOTHER NEIGHBORHOOD:

Absinthe

398 Hayes St

Tres romantique? Oui. Not only does the resto’s dark-wood, classic brasserie interior entice, but inspired Frenchy nibbles from chef Jamie Lauren, sparkling fresh oysters, and one of the best cocktail programs in the city elevate this from simple to stunner.

Photo: Courtesy of Absinthe

Rickshaw Stop

155 Fell St 415-861-2011

Rock out with your ’hawk out at this sweaty, sultry club where rockers, punk heads, and electronic fans merge. Thick red curtains envelop the dance floor downstairs, while a more mellow upstairs has a few couches to lounge on. (Tip: The sangria ain’t half bad, but consider yourself warned.)

Photo: Misha Vladimirskiy / Butchershop Creative

Bulo Shoes

418 Hayes St 415-255-4939

Beautifully crafted, mostly Italian shoes are the specialty at Bulo (although it stocks some American designers, too). These kicks don’t come cheap, but they’re well worth it for their highly stylized design. A few handbags round out the selection.

Photo: Courtesy of Bulo Shoes

Propeller

555 Hayes St 415-701-7767

It’s a mod mod world at this Hayes Valley home boutique. Pick up contemporary furniture, rugs, linens, lighting, and accents for sleek digs.

Photo: Courtesy of Propeller

Bar Jules

609 Hayes St 415-621-5482

This Hayes Valley cafe/restaurant, keeps things simple. The less-is-more menu, posted daily on chalkboard and online, features what’s fresh and in season. Period.

Photo: Ann Homannay / Courtesy of Bar Jules