A Cultural Melting Pot in the Suburbs

The Richmond district, which quietly inhabits the north western corner of San Francisco, combines the historical roots of San Francisco with new cultural infusions that make it unique. It is bordered by pristine coastline, the Golden Gate Park and the Presidio. This district holds some of San Francisco's best kept secrets.

Upon first glance, the Richmond is a sleepy, family friendly fog haven; however, hidden between the avenues, main veins−California, Clement and Geary streets−connect the otherwise somber neighborhood to a lively and diverse atmosphere. Sometimes the neighborhood seems empty when I walk down the avenues in Outer Richmond, but once I hit Geary, I get that big-city feel. The residents are as diverse as the restaurant line up on Geary Street. Russian, Chinese, Irish, Mexican, Vietnamese and Korean communities have seamlessly plopped themselves into the heart of the district, making it a cultural melting pot.

The Richmond has a little something for everyone−you just need to know where to look. The Legion of Honor houses some of the most famous paintings in the world, while smaller local galleries, like Park Life, display quirky yet humble artwork. There's more too see than just art. One of the most popular shopping areas among locals is New Chinatown on Clement Street. Here you can find just about everything under the sun, especially if you’re on a budget. I have spent hours winding in and out of Asian variety stores that sell anything you can think of. This charming and understated area of the Richmond is one of the best kept secrets in the city and still relatively hipster-free.

The Richmond district is home to some of the city’s best restaurants and oldest bars. Ethnic restaurants, like Burhma Star, serve exotic dishes that attract many local food connoisseurs. Their chicken curry, although full of bones, is a spicy treat. Drive down Geary and you will find Irish pubs packed with thirsty college students and locals, many sometimes offering live music or events, like the Skee-ball tournaments at the Buckshot. Bars like the Plough and the Stars offer line dancing and an ambience that is hard to find elsewhere.

The Presidio isn’t the most popular destination for Richmond locals, but when needed, it does provide an opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors hike, bike and walk along nature trails amidst century old Eucalyptus, Cyprus and Pine trees to enjoy the scenery.If you feel more like hitting the beach, drive west through the avenues and visit Baker Beach, the Cliff house and the Sutro baths−don’t worry too much about sunscreen though, it’s always foggy.

So for in the Richmond, I have found that despite the busy streets of New Chinatown and the vastness of the Presidio, what most people like about it is that it feels like home. When I walk down the street, I feel a sense of community; I don’t feel out of place. The Richmond has so much to offer and it’s all wrapped up in a tiny box just waiting for you to open it. Now it’s up to you to check it out.