What are you most excited about right now regarding Union Square?
What excites me most about Union Square right now is the moment, especially the number of new businesses making Union Square their home and helping create an environment where people truly want to spend time. There’s a real sense that the district is undergoing a meaningful transformation and rebuilding its energy, with thoughtful efforts focused on making it vibrant, welcoming, and appealing to both visitors and businesses.
A key part of our ongoing progress includes two transformative capital projects that are shaping the future of Union Square. First, the Powell Street Redesign Project is reimagining one of our most iconic streets to improve circulation, accessibility, and the overall experience for visitors and residents alike. Second, the Moscone Pedestrian Corridor Improvement Project is creating a safer, more welcoming pathway through the heart of the Convention Corridor, leading directly up Stockton Street to Union Square.
This enhanced connection between the Convention Center and Union Square will improve accessibility, encourage foot traffic, and draw more people to explore everything our district has to offer. Together, these efforts are helping to draw people and businesses back to Union Square and position it for continued growth.
Glam in overdrive at Starlite.
Photo courtesy of the hotel
What are your best-kept secrets for the perfect weekend in Union Square?
The best way to experience Union Square is through your taste buds—it truly has something for everyone. I’d start the morning with coffee and pastries at One65 or B. Patisserie or opt for a relaxed brunch at Bella Café. From there, spend the afternoon exploring art galleries, beautiful retail, and those “only in San Francisco” places like Gump’s, the Nintendo Store, and Dandelion Chocolate for unique souvenirs. And if you’re a watch collector, the high-end retail here is not to be missed.
For lunch, I’d head to The Rotunda, followed by a mid-afternoon cocktail at the bar at Taj Campton Place. Dinner at John’s Grill is always a classic. If there’s a show at American Conservatory Theater or Feinstein’s at the Nikko, I’d absolutely plan an evening around it and end the night with a cocktail at favorites like Starlite, Elements Bar & Lounge at One65, or Pacific Cocktail Haven. Of course, no perfect weekend is complete without a stroll down Maiden Lane to take in the Union Square in Bloom décor—and maybe treat yourself to a little pampering at one of the area’s many high-end salons or beauty bars.
If you’re turning it into a staycation, you can’t go wrong with the historic elegance of The Westin St. Francis, the beautifully refreshed Beacon Grand, or more boutique options like the Chancellor Hotel on Union Square. For families, Handlery Union Square Hotel and Hilton San Francisco Union Square offer fantastic pools—always a hit with kids.
What’s one local business or hidden gem that perfectly captures the spirit of Union Square?
Union Square is full of timeless gems, but a couple really capture the neighborhood’s spirit. You can start with the tradition of a popover at The Rotunda, then later enjoy a martini at John’s Grill and often linger long enough to stay for dinner, savoring clam chowder and lamb chops. That combination of elegance, history, and quintessential San Francisco character feels so true to the area. Even something as simple as strolling through the St. Francis lobby and riding the glass elevators transports you into a living piece of Union Square’s history. It’s that mix of tradition, charm, and iconic details that makes this neighborhood so special.
What’s one thing you do daily that makes you feel connected to Union Square?
I often find myself reflecting on the future we are building together as a community—the dedication, the drive and the passion to make Union Square an even better place for everyone to enjoy. That sense of purpose each day keeps me deeply connected to this neighborhood and to the mission of preserving and strengthening it for the next 100 years.
Photo courtesy of gallery
Where’s your go-to spot for a post-hike coffee or pre-gallery lunch in town?
For a pre-gallery lunch in town, I usually stop by The Post Room or grab a warm bowl of pho at Bodega. From there, I’d make time to explore the classic works at Christopher-Clark Fine Art, take in the contemporary pieces at CK Contemporary for a bit of contrast, and see what’s currently on view at Tony Wessling Gallery and Caldwell Snyder Gallery—to name a few. Still have energy to burn? I’d recommend dropping into a dance class at Rae Studios.
If you had to describe Union Square in a single phrase, what would it be?
Iconic.