San Francisco’s Third Street is a million things at once, but never predictable.

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GETTING THERE
Third Street is home to a MUNI rail line T and is easily accessible from Downtown. There’s also usually plenty of parking unless there’s a special event at Pier 70 or projects at the Burning Man warehouse.

BRUNCH
For a big breakfast served up with a hearty portion of southern comfort, start your day at Hard Knox Cafe at Third and 22nd. The portions are huge, the fried chicken is juicy, and the cornbread is a must.
Alternatively, if a bay-side seat is what you’re after head to The Ramp. Classic American fair with dive bar vibes think burgers, eggs and bloody Mary’s are accompanied by a live band on weekend days May-September. Grab some friends and a round of drinks and camp out at one of the many outdoor tables. Bring sunscreen.
If you are looking for seasonal California cuisine with a hint of dolce vita, try Piccino. The owners, Margherita & Sher, make sure their dishes are made only of best ingredients. We are big fans of their soft scramble with cauliflower, marble potato and carrot. Or yes, you can definitely opt for one of their pizze for brunch.

LATER
Once you’re full, wander down Third Street. If you ate at The Ramp, it’s a bit of a walk. Wander off Third at 22nd, and you’ll discover beautiful old houses and quiet streets. Visit Workshop Residence for unique, locally crafted home goods and art. Around the corner on Tennessee, there’s Industrious Life, home to a curated selection of candles, soap, and soft goods. There’s La Fromagerie Cheese Shop, Poco Dolce Chocolates (they have free samples!), a ton of neighborhood dive bars, Long Bridge Pizza Co., and some spectacular industrial architecture. If you’re looking to pick something up for dinner, wander over to Oliver’s Butchery on Illinois Street.From here you can see the historic preservation and new buildings taking shape at Pier 70 while picking up some of the best meat in SF.

For truly San Francisco souvenir that you will actually use for years to come, we suggest you treat yourself to a nice bag from Rickshaw Bags. The sturdy, colorful bags are great for everything, from shopping to laptop carrying and hiking.

Third and Illinois is the foodie center of The Dogpatch. Ice cream at Mr. and Mrs. Miscellaneous, BBQ and fresh-brewed beer at Smokestack at Magnolia Brewing, Dogpatch Wine Works, Marcella’s Lasagneria, and Serpentine embody the can-do new-urban feel of the neighborhood.
The neighborhood seems to be constantly expanding. At 24rd and Minnesota (two blocks off Third) there’s a new-ish Philz Coffee, and an amazing parklet/walkway/garden worth checking out. Inside the gigantic grey converted warehouse on the corner, you’ll find the Minnesota Street Project, home to a rotating variety of art galleries. It’s free, and they’ll let you bring your Philz in. To satisfy your cultural needs check out the Museum of Craft & Design for local artist exhibitions and rotating shows. And if you are looking for to slurp some oysters while soaking in magnificent views of the Bay, you cannot miss the happy hour at the Mission Rock Resort. Dogpatch Guide

WIND DOWN
When your belly is full and you’ve wandered around, consider a little more adventure further down Third Street. Over the bridge (but not through the woods) and into The Bayview are still more hidden gems. You’ll notice the buildings switch from mainly industrial to classic San Francisco Victorians and little bungalows.
At Jerrold and Third, there’s a hidden jungle in The City. Flora Grubb Gardens, known for their succulents and laid-back California design is the perfect place to wrap up an afternoon. There’s coffee and pastries on site, and plenty of places to take a seat and relax. The staff is super knowledgeable and friendly, and the plants are divine.
Across the street is a pizza garden/food truck called All Good Pizza. The pizza is light and crispy, sometimes there’s live music, and the outdoor space is perfect for meeting up with friends and hanging out.

San Francisco isn’t all hipster bars, upscale shops and tourist spots. There’s so much to explore and discover, and Third Street is just the beginning.

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*Images by Jessica Heller & Ana Kamin