Main Content

Exploring Potrero Hill: A Treasure Trove of Culture and Small Businesses

Exploring Potrero Hill A Treasure Trove of Culture and Small Businesses

Amid the cool and foggy landscape of San Francisco, a few neighborhoods rise above the rest, bathing themselves in the warm rays of the sun. One such neighborhood is Potrero Hill.

Blessed by a higher elevation and an inland location, Potrero Hill enjoys clearer skies and warmer temperatures than many other San Francisco communities. Residents and visitors alike also get to enjoy unfettered views of the downtown area and the Bay Bridge.

But more than its perfect location and sunnier days, Potrero Hills also teems with vibrancy and a strong community spirit, with small businesses forming the backbone of its local economy and character. One only has to explore the neighborhood’s commercial district to find streets lined with cafes, restaurants, bookstores, and bars, most of which are owned and operated by locals. Unique cultural landmarks, events, and activities also bring color to Potrero Hill, from the proudly crooked Vermont Street to The Nabe.

Find out more about the various people, places, and events that truly define San Francisco’s Potrero Hill below.

POTRERO HILL’S COMMUNITY AND LIFESTYLE

Potrero-Hill-Community-and-Lifestlye

One of San Francisco’s crookedest streets, Vermont, is in the Potrero Hill neighborhood.

Understanding the local community vibe

Potrero Hill is a distinct neighborhood in San Francisco that’s known for its sunny weather, friendly atmosphere, and tight-knit community. The area is characterized by a blend of historic Victorian and Edwardian homes alongside modern residences, creating a charming and eclectic architectural landscape. Residents of Potrero Hill enjoy a strong sense of community, where neighbors know each other by name and local businesses thrive on regular patronage. And, as mentioned earlier, the neighborhood’s elevated position offers breathtaking views of Downtown San Francisco and the Bay Bridge, further adding to its appeal.

Regular events and  community gatherings

The Potrero Hill community comes alive with various events and gatherings throughout the year, fostering a vibrant local culture. One of the most notable events is the Potrero Hill Festival, held annually on 20th Street. This festival features live music, food, family-friendly activities, and performances from local artists and organizations. It’s a significant fundraiser for the Potrero Hill Neighborhood House which supports essential community services.​

Another popular event is the Bring Your Own Big Wheel Race, which takes place every Easter Sunday. Participants of all ages race down Vermont Street on plastic-wheeled tricycles, creating a fun and lively atmosphere. This event, known for its playful spirit and community involvement, draws large crowds and encourages a sense of camaraderie among residents.

Another major community highlight is the annual Potrero Hill Artists Exhibition, which showcases the works of local artists and fosters a sense of community pride and appreciation for the arts. The neighborhood also celebrates its rich history with History Night, where residents gather to share stories and learn about the area’s past.

Outdoor spaces and activities

Potrero Hill, San Francisco boasts several beautiful parks and outdoor spaces that cater to various recreational activities. Jackson Playground and McKinley Square Park offer expansive green areas for picnics, sports, and relaxation. The Potrero Hill Recreation Center is a community hub that features a gymnasium, basketball and tennis courts, a baseball diamond, and a children’s play area. These outdoor spaces and recreation facilities are fantastic community amenities that provide ample opportunities for residents to stay active and engaged.

Additionally, the neighborhood’s unique geography opens up opportunities for staying active while admiring views of the city landscape and the bay. Its walking and biking paths and other outdoor spaces allow residents to enjoy a casual stroll or take part in Potrero Hill’s unique events, which is why they are integral to the community’s dynamic lifestyle.

IN FOCUS: POTRERO HILL’S INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES

In-Focus-Potrero-Hill-Independent-Business

Potrero Hill, San Francisco, with its sunny streets and charming atmosphere, is a treasure trove of unique and independent businesses that contribute to the neighborhood’s vibrant character. From gourmet food markets to eclectic bookstores, Potrero Hill offers a delightful array of shopping and dining experiences.

Le Marché Cezanne along 18th Street is both a grocery and a restaurant. Owned by new San Francisco resident Mario Rimet, this special Potrero Hill food destination offers gourmet foodstuff and meals made from locally sourced organic ingredients. Mario was inspired to bring France’s epicurean culture to the neighborhood after working at another French restaurant, and Le Marché Cezanne reflects his passion for French cuisine.

Christopher’s Books is a quaint independent bookstore that has been serving the Potrero Hill community since 1991. Founded by Christopher Ellison, after whom the bookstore was named, it’s now owned by Tee Minot, who started working there a year after it opened and has been its proprietor for the past 25 years. With a carefully curated selection of books, this bookstore provides a welcoming space for bookworms of all ages.

The Good Life Grocery is a cornerstone of the Potrero Hill community, offering a wide range of traditional, organic, and specialty groceries since 1974. Originally part of the People’s Food System, It began as a small storefront on 18th Street and then moved to its current location on 20th Street in 1986. Today, The Good Life Grocery is proudly 100% women-owned, led by Kayren Hudiburgh, who has been with the store since 1976, and Samantha Zuvella, a third-generation Potrero Hill resident who started working there in 2004. Together, they continue to provide healthy, natural, and fairly priced food to the community while maintaining the store’s legacy as a neighborhood institution.

Goat Hill Pizza is a beloved spot at 300 Connecticut Street that’s known for its brick-oven pizzas with crisp sourdough crusts. Opened in 1975 by five friends – Joel and Loris Lipski, Karen Clark, Ruthann Dickinson, and Philip De Andrade – in the Potrero Hill neighborhood, it has been the go-to place for families and friends looking to enjoy a casual meal together. Their famous Porky Pie, loaded with tomatoes, bacon bits, and plenty of garlic, is a must-try.

For coffee lovers, Farley’s offers a cozy, community-centric atmosphere. Opened in 1989 by Roger Hillyard, who was inspired to start a coffee business after a minor coffee-making accident, this cafe serves drip coffee sourced from De La Paz and roasted in-house. It’s not just a coffee shop but a community hub, hosting monthly art exhibitions and the legendary Pet Parade before Halloween. This beloved Potrero Hill coffee spot was named after Roger’s grandfather. Now, Roger’s son and his wife have expanded their family’s legacy, bringing Farley’s to the East Bay and the San Francisco and Oakland airports while maintaining its deep connection with the community.

Chez-Maman

Chez Maman is another gem in Potrero Hill, known for its French-inspired menu that includes everything from smoked salmon and salads to crepes and hamburgers. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely brunch or a casual dinner, offering a taste of France in the heart of the neighborhood.

Plow is famous citywide for its lemon ricotta pancakes, soft scrambled eggs, and pork sausage patties, bringing a minimalist approach to breakfast and lunch. This brunch spot on 18th Street, opened by Joel Bleskacek and Maxine Siu, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. After taking a ten-year break from restaurants, Joel and Maxine bought a vacant architect’s studio in their Potrero Hill neighborhood in 2010 and turned it into Plow. 

Papito serves delicious Mexican fare, including short rib tacos and a wide selection of Mex-Cal dishes and tequila. It’s a great place to watch a game while enjoying generous portions of chips, salsa, and other Mexican delights.

And, while it’s not in operation, the building where Anchor Brewing Company – one of America’s oldest breweries – operated remains an iconic structure on Potrero Hill. Founded in 1896, Anchor Brewing became known for its iconic Steam Beer and played a significant role in the American craft beer movement. Despite its historical significance, the brewery closed its doors last year. However, reports say that the owner of Chobani Yogurt, Hamdi Ulukaya, has recently purchased the brewery. He plans to reopen it in its original Potrero Hill location and preserve the legacy of producing the brews that made Anchor Brewing famous. The potential reopening of Anchor Brewing is not just a win for beer lovers but also a testament to the enduring spirit of Potrero Hill’s independent businesses. 

POTRERO HILL’S CULTURAL LANDMARKS

Potrero Hill is a neighborhood rich in cultural landmarks that offer a glimpse into its vibrant and diverse community.

San Francisco Center for the Book

The San Francisco Center for the Book (SFCB) is a unique cultural landmark that celebrates the art of bookbinding, letterpress printing, and other book arts. Founded in 1996, SFCB offers a variety of workshops, exhibitions, and public events that invite participants to learn and engage with traditional and contemporary bookmaking techniques. The center is known for its hands-on approach, providing opportunities for people of all ages and skill levels to create their own books and prints. The exhibitions at SFCB highlight the work of local and international book artists, making it a vibrant part of San Francisco’s cultural landscape.

Vermont Street

Vermont Street is renowned for being one of the crookedest streets in San Francisco. This steep and winding street is a quirky landmark that adds historical charm to Potrero Hill. Vermont Street is particularly celebrated during the annual Bring Your Own Big Wheel (BYOBW) race, where participants race down the crooked street on plastic big-wheel tricycles. This event, which takes place during Easter, brings together locals and visitors for a day of fun and community spirit.

Potrero Hill Archives Project

The Potrero Hill Archives Project is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of the neighborhood. The project began as an oral history initiative focused on the Molokan community and has since expanded to include a vast collection of photographs, maps, and artifacts. The archives are often showcased at local events like the Potrero Hill Festival and San Francisco History Days, allowing residents and visitors to connect with the neighborhood’s past. The project is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the historical evolution of Potrero Hill.

Bottom of the Hill

Bottom-of-the-Hill

This legendary music venue, located at the corner of 17th and Missouri streets, is described by Rolling Stone Magazine as the best place for enjoying live music in San Francisco. Since opening in the early 1990s, Bottom of the Hill has featured a diverse range of artists, from up-and-coming bands to established musicians. It has repeatedly won the Readers’ Poll Best of The Bay award for ten consecutive years from 2003 to 2012. Known as the heart of San Francisco’s indie rock scene, the venue usually holds shows seven nights a week and features a large antique bar, a kitchen serving hot food, and a patio. This vibrant atmosphere makes Bottom of the Hill a cultural cornerstone of Potrero Hill.

The Potrero Hill Neighborhood House

The Potrero Hill Neighborhood House, known as “The Nabe,” is a non-profit community center established in 1907. It is located in a 97-year-old Historical Landmark Building (Historical Landmark #86), designed by the renowned architect Julia Morgan. Originally created to support new immigrants and those displaced by the 1906 earthquake, The Nabe has grown to become a central hub for community activities. It offers a variety of programs and services, including youth and senior activities, arts and crafts, and health and wellness initiatives. The historic building has been expanded over the years to incorporate additional facilities, ensuring that it remains a vital part of the Potrero Hill community.

EXPLORE POTRERO HILL WITH DAVE CUNNINGHAM, YOUR TRUSTED REALTOR

Exploring Potrero Hill reveals a vibrant neighborhood that brims with cultural landmarks, unique independent businesses, and a strong sense of community. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern living, making it an ideal location for home buyers seeking a dynamic and welcoming place to call home.

If you have your eye on homes for sale in Potrero Hill, it makes sense to work with someone who knows the community like the back of their hand. That said, you have me, leading San Francisco Realtor Dave Cunningham, to guide you toward realizing your real estate goals in Potrero Hill. Let’s work together to find your dream home in this wonderful neighborhood. Contact me at 415.244.4779 or email me to get started.

Skip to content