San Francisco Shopping Tips by Callavetta

Assorted: Ferry Building

The newly remodeled Ferry Building houses all kinds of shops and restaurants where specialty items can be found. Sur Le Table is a kitchenware shop where you can find anything the chef desires. Upscale gourmet food shops and chocolatiers will even give you samples and tastes. On Saturday, the plaza behind the Ferry Building is home to a glorious Farmers' Market. Even if you're not in the market for produce, you will find things there that will call out to you; "take me home, take me home!"

Directions: The Ferry Building is at the point where the Embarcadero meets Market Street.

Theme: Other

Grooves: Looking for that hard to find "LP"?

Does anyone play actual "records" anymore? I mean the old "LP" vinyl kind? I recently found out my 28 year old daughter has been listening to all my golden oldies (which disappeared from our garage) on her Ficsher Price record player!

If you have an affinity for vinyl, Grooves is the place for you. There's not a CD to be found. But recordings of all genres are here.

Address: 1797 Market (at Octavia)

Phone: (415) 436-9933

Theme: Music

City Lights (and others): Bookstores City Lights Books Review

SF is chock full of interesting Bookstores. Perhaps City Lights is the most famous (infamous). But if you're a lover of livres, this is the place for you!

Founded in 1953, this is one of the last remaining independent bookstores. For fans of the genre it's essential to keep an eye on the website to be familiar with the steady stream of interesting events that happen weekly. You'll also want to visit the website for the virtual tour of the City Lights bookstore and it's history.

Open daily 10 am til midnight.

Address: 261 Columbus Avenue at Broadway

Directions: North Beach - Stick around for some great Italian food and then espresso and fun at Cafe Trieste

Phone: 415.362.8193

Theme: Books

Website: http://www.citylights.com/