EXPLORE
The remodeled Castro Theatre
Photo by Joshua Withers
Castro Theatre
In February, the Castro Theatre, a beloved local landmark that debuted in 1922, reopened after an extensive multiyear rehabilitation and renovation. EverGreene Architectural Arts masterfully restored the ceiling’s original artwork, modernized the historic chandelier, installed the world’s largest digital organ and revived the iconic neon sign and marquee. The venue can now host standing-room-only musical performances, in addition to the seated experience for which it’s known. On the calendar this month? Built This City: An SF Pride Variety Spectacular and Frameline, the prominent LGBTQ film festival. 429 Castro St., thecastro.com
Love Potion Library
Photo courtesy of Veena Patel
Love Potion Library
Romance novels are trending, and Veena Patel noticed that the city lacked a place for readers who devour the niche literature. Enter Love Potion Library, her new bookstore, which doubles as an event space and meeting place. Patel currently offers tea and an assortment of pastries. The shop has a license to sell beer and wine, so she plans to host activities like trivia night in addition to selling every type of romance imaginable. 284 Noe St., 415.448.7117, thelovepotionlibrary.com
Chartreuse by Roje
Technically, Chartreuse by Roje is a florist, but the boutique is so much more than just a one-stop shop for bouquets. Owners Jeffrey and Robert Dumlao have created a captivating space filled with unique vases, exotic plants, home goods and more. They also often host events and enjoy supporting the neighborhood’s arts and creative community. 2095 Market St., 415.374.7812, chartreusebyroje.com
The interior of Queer Arts Featured
Photo by Devlin Shand
Queer Arts Featured
Queer Arts Featured, or Queer A.F., is an artist-led gallery, event space and boutique in the historic storefront that once housed Harvey Milk’s camera shop. The gallery celebrates and supports people across the LGBTQ community and is a safe, welcoming place for those seeking the freedom to be their true selves. 575 Castro St., 415.562.4419, queerartsfeatured.com
EAT
Parasol at Flore
The former home of the longtime Cafe Flore has been reborn as Parasol at Flore. With its floor-to-ceiling windows and lush plants, the charming cafe makes for the perfect sun-soaked brunch. Enjoy a coffee and croissant, or Mediterranean-inspired snacks, in the greenhouse-like atmosphere. 2298 Market St., parasolsf.com
Antoine’s Cookie Shop
Baker Antoine Tang opened the fourth location of his namesake cookie shop last winter. The cookies are made with real eggs, organic flour, and the best quality butter and vanilla extract. There is a flavor for every taste bud, from classic chocolate chip to snickerdoodle to honeycomb. 2073 Market St., 628.233.5641, antoinescookieshop.com
Canela Bistro Bar’s incredible paella is a crowd-pleaser.
Photo courtesy of the restaurant
Canela Bistro Bar
For an authentic Spanish meal, head to Canela Bistro Bar, a longtime Castro favorite that’s celebrating its 15th anniversary in September. We love going for happy hour—you can’t beat the selection of tapas (croquetas de jamón, bacon-wrapped dates, patatas bravas, tortilla española, to name a few!) and sangria at just $7 and $10. They also make wonderful paella.2272 Market St., 415.552.3000, canelasf.com
Le Marais Bakery
Le Marais is a local French bistro chain with excellent croissants, crepes, pastries and breakfast dishes. The Castro location offers an assortment of viennoiserie, from fruit danishes to pain suisse with ham, as well as larger dishes like omelets, quiche, sandwiches, salads and more. There are also exceptional coffee drinks, mimosas, spritzes and a selection of beer and wine. 498 Sanchez St., 415.872.9026, lemaraisbakery.com
DRINK
Lobby Bar's Wine & Roses cocktail features London dry gin, peach liqueur, honey, red wine, fresh lemon, and rose water
Photo by Luana Brandao
The Lobby Bar
Enjoy speakeasy-inspired craft cocktails at The Lobby Bar. Located on the ground floor of the Hotel Castro, the bar specializes in thoughtfully curated drinks made with freshly squeezed juices and housemade syrups. There are also snacks meant to pair with the beverages—think chicken wings, deep-fried gyoza and French fries. 4230 18th St., Ste. A, 415.854.9029, lobbybarsf.com
Rikki’s
Rikki’s, the city’s first and only bar devoted entirely to women’s sports, is celebrating its first birthday this month. Named after Rikki Streicher, the owner and operator of several queer and lesbian SF bars from the 1960s to the 1990s, Rikki’s is the ideal place to catch a Valkyries or Bay FC game. There’s also a fabulous trivia tournament the first Wednesday of every month. 2223 Market St., rikkisbarsf.com
