San Francisco, CA

A historic San Francisco landmark

The Ferry Building’s history is a story of rebirth, much like the city of San Francisco that had to rebuild after the 1906 earthquake. Originally opening in 1898, the Ferry Building was a portal to the city of San Francisco from other parts of the Bay Area via ferry.

As the automobile, bridges, and a double-deck freeway were built, it became less utilized. After the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, the central freeway collapsed and was eventually demolished. The city made plans to redevelop the Ferry Building and the Embarcadero, the waterfront street and promenade parallel to San Francisco Bay. Crossing the Embarcadero from the Ferry Building, brings us to the start of Market Street and the Financial District. Restored, the Ferry Building reopened in 2003.

Now the Ferry Building is home to a bustling farmers market (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays) and artisan food purveyors (including a butcher, fresh bread, handmade chocolate). Like Reading Terminal in Philadelphia, the food selection is top notch. The quality of food offerings at the Ferry Building matches the elegance of the restored architecture inside. It’s a lovely spot to slow down, find a bench to drink or eat, and take in the views of the Bay Bridge and Treasure Island.

Once again, the ferries are used by more than a million people annually coming into the city by the Bay. I was one of those commuters. I enjoyed the commute because of the Ferry Building. Below are the places I still visit when I’m in town.

Miette

Miette’s colors are as vibrant as the selection of their sweets. They have French macarons, cakes (including one with Scharffen Berger chocolate), tarts. But what I come for is their chocolate pot de crème. A pot de crème is a French custard similar to a crème brûlée, but without the caramelized sugar on top. I would describe the consistency as a fluffier pudding that’s silky like a mousse. The whipped cream is freshly made. Miette’s pot de crème come in reusable glass jars with lids.

El Porteño

El Porteno’s empanadas are flaky and sumptuous. Their empanada shapes and fillings vary, highlighting quality ingredients. I’ve tried a few, but I usually order the Champiñones: fresh mushrooms sautéed with shallots, Parmesan, crème fraîche.

Humphry Slocombe

Taking its name from two lead characters in a 1970s British sitcom, Humphry Slocombe originally opened in the Mission District (like a couple of other iconic SF ice cream shops). Their location in the Ferry Building is the one I have frequented. They have intriguing flavors like Secret Breakfast. But my favorite (and their most popular) is the Vietnamese Coffee featuring Blue Bottle Coffee (which is across the way from Humphry Slocombe in the Ferry Building). You can also buy the packaged version at local grocery stores like Mollie Stone’s and Whole Foods.

Gott’s Roadside

Gott’s Roadside is primarily seen as a burger place with farm-fresh ingredients. Their menu is extensive, including chicken and vegan options. Gott’s was the first burger joint I tried that also served alcohol. In addition to sodas and shakes, they serve wines and beers. I remember having a glass of white wine with my Wisconsin burger before catching the ferry home. Gott’s has indoor and outdoor seating at the Ferry Building.

Several locations of Gott’s now dot the Bay Area. I’ve eaten at Gott’s before an SF Giants game; it’s a nice walk along the Embarcadero to the stadium. Be sure to come early, as other Giants fans also have the same idea. There’s also a Gott’s in Mission Bay’s Thrive City surrounding the Chase Center, home of the GS Warriors. I’ve grabbed a bite before a basketball game.

A place to wander and ponder

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Ferry Building is worth visiting for the food, the sights, or to catch one of the SF Bay Ferries to Sausalito or Alameda/Oakland (Jack London Square).

Be sure to take time to wander inside and outside. San Francisco weather usually hovers around 60 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. Heatwaves don’t last long as the fog eventually rolls in from the Pacific. October is a particularly nice time to visit, Fleet Week usually happens then. Strolling around the Ferry Building may help you see why locals consider San Francisco one of the most beautiful cities in the world.