Mission at 16th and Valencia
The Mission at 16th and Valencia, also known as the Inner Mission District, is known locally as a hipster hangout. This is evident in the many thrift stores, dive bars, chic coffeehouses, used bookstores, funky art galleries and avant-garde theater – not to mention the low rents. That being said, the neighborhood is still worth a visit, if only to get a feel for the other San Francisco.
Where it’s At
The neighborhood is served by the BART, with the station located at 16th and Mission. If you’re driving, your best bet for finding parking is heading towards 16th and South Van Ness.
What to See
A visit to the Inner Mission isn’t complete without catching an underground film, and there’s no place better for doing exactly that than The Roxie and Little Roxie (2117 16th St.). For some very avant garde art that borders on the experimental, The Lab is the place to be. Of particular interest is its focus on graffiti art (2948 16th St.). And you simply cannot resist walking by the Troll Window. Located on a first-floor apartment window near 18th and Valencia the window is home to an array of creepy troll dolls displayed in various scenes that reflect on popular culture and current events.
Where to Eat
Andalu attracts a young crowd but serves up a great selection of tapas, including Coca-Cola ribs, arugula salad and Castillian hot chocolate (3198 16th St.). Little Start Pizza serves both deep-dish and thin crust. Highly recommended is the White Pie, served hot with a crisp crust blanketed in tomato sauce and topped with feta and mozzarella chesses (400 Valencia St.). The Maverick American Eatery & Wine Bar serves up American classics from across the country – with wines coming from around the world. Be sure to try the pan-roasted wild Columbia River sturgeon (3316 17th St.). And for excellent seasonal sushi, stop by Tokyo Go-Go for tuna tartare and Kobe beef tataki (3174 16th St.). Yamo is a unique dinning option, albeit tiny. The counter-only restaurant specializes in Burmese food that pulls from the best of India and China – just beware the spices! (3406 18th St.).