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Why Live in an Apartment Near the Ferry Building?

scenic outdoor view of the ferry building from an balcony terrace at Towers at Rincon

It's simply amazing to live just a few blocks away from of one of most iconic buildings in San Francisco. Not only is the Ferry Building an architectural treasure, but it’s a transportation hub, community and cultural center, and a place to discover some really good food. We never tire of the view (see above) or the attractions.

Culinary Delights

Relish a delectably diverse array of food vendors and restaurants to eat your way through. Local favorites include:

  • Acme Bread - Founded in 1983, this iconic local company offers artisan breads and baked goods made with time-honored techniques and premium ingredients.
  • Hog Island Oyster Company - Sustainably farmed oysters harvested from the pristine waters of Tomales Bay, providing a delectable taste of California's coastal bounty.
  • Senor Sisig - San Francisoc street food pioneers serving mouthwatering Filipino-inspired dishes with a modern twist
  • Gotts Roadside - Famed for its delicious burgers, hand-spun shakes, and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, all served up with a side of California nostalgia
  • Delica - Deli with delicious Japanese take-out (sushi, bento boxes, salads), born from a Japanese sensibility merged with California vitality.
  • Cholita Linda - Delicious Latin American street food with a California twist, from mouthwatering tacos to their famous Cuban sandwiches.
  • Fatted Calf - A newer addition to the Ferry Building, this carnivore's paradise offers a tantalizing selection of handcrafted sandwiches, meats, and charcuterie.
  • Boulette's Larder - Exquisite French-inspired cuisine with dine-in seating as well as a delicious larder of take-out options.
  • The Slanted Door - Reopening soon, this nationally acclaimed Vietnamese restuarant is slated to open again in its Ferry Marketplace location in 2024.

The Farmers’ Market

One of the secrets to the delicious cooking by San Francisco’s best chefs is their visits to the infamous farmers’ market at the Ferry Building. Even Alice Waters of Chez Panisse goes there every single week. This market is especially known for a well-curated group of regional farmers — mostly organic — who have extremely high-quality ingredients. The market also offers the usual artisan crafts and street food.

This community hub will be down the street from you three days a week to help you stock your fridge and take your cooking to the next level.

Eclectic Local Shops

After you've gotten your fill of foodie options, be sure to also check out these popular specialty shops:

  • Heath Ceramics - With a legacy of over 70 years, this Sausalito-based institution is known for its timeless, handcrafted pottery and tile designs.
  • Book Passage - The "Bay Area's Liviest Bookstore", this literary oasis offers an extensive selection of titles and is also known for its frequent events with well-known authors.
  • Maison Verbena - Offers a curated collection of handcrafted home goods and artisanal gifts.
  • Fog City Flea Trading Post - A 5K square foot marketplace of makers & merchants from the San Francisco Bay area and beyond offering vintage finds, handmade crafts, and artisanal goods.
  • Ferry Plaze Wine Merchants - Offers a popular wine bar as well as a fantastic selection of wines from California and around the world.

Incredible Architecture & History

The Ferry Building's Beaux-Arts architecture and iconic clock tower make it a visually striking landmark (and popular spot for social media shares). History enthusiasts and architecture aficionados appreciate its grandeur and historical significance.

Completed in 1898, this iconic structure was designed by A. Page Brown in the Beaux-Arts style, characterized by its symmetrical facade, grand arches, and imposing clock tower rising 245 feet into the sky. Inspired by the Giralda bell tower in Seville, Spain, the Ferry Building's clock tower has become a beloved symbol of the city. Originally serving as the primary transportation hub for ferries traversing the San Francisco Bay, the building played a crucial role in the city's economic and social development.

Although ferry travel declined with the advent of bridges and tunnels, the Ferry Building has endured as a cherished landmark, undergoing extensive restoration efforts in the late 20th century to preserve its historical and architectural integrity. Today, it continues to serve as a vibrant hub of activity.

Cool Pop-Ups & Events

There's also a regular rotation of pop-up merchants and local events at the Ferry Building. Limited-time pop-up shops feature everything from exciting new restaurant concepts and nonprofit causes to a recent focus on Chinatown shops. Events include everything from free yoga classes to Wednesday wine nights.

It’s a Great Place to Watch Fireworks

Frequently during the holidays, fireworks are shot off in the water just in front of The Ferry Building. From New Years Eve to July 4, you will be within a quick walk to one of the best fireworks shows in San Francisco.

You can Ferry All Over the Bay Area

The Ferry Building’s most practical function (and the one in its name) is as a transport hub for the San Francisco Bay Ferry. Skip the bridge traffic and instead take a beautiful water ride to Oakland, Alameda, Fremont, South San Francisco, or Vallejo.

For Vallejo, Oakland, and Alameda ferry schedules, visit sanfranciscobayferry.com. For Larkspur, Sausalito, and Tiburon ferry schedules, visit goldengate.org.

Explore The Towers at Rincon

Luxury apartments at Towers at Rincon are just a seven-minute stroll from the Ferry Building, so our residents are able to make the art show popups, ferry rides, and delicious food a part of their everyday life. You just have to walk down the street and you’re there!