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Mid-Market in San Francisco: Nightlife, Theater, Restaurants, and More
by Jill Loeffler •
The Mid-Market in San Francisco is an area full of fun things to do from concerts to tasty brunches. It's a small area between Market and Mission Streets that runs lengthwise from 5th to 9th Streets.
In other words, this is the downtown area between the consecutive Powell Street and Civic Center BART stations.
For years, this was mostly a theater and concert destination, and there weren't many restaurants or bars in this area. However, this changed with the addition of a few larger corporations nearby. It was then renamed to reflect its new image.
Disclaimer: I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.
Things to Do & See in Mid-Market in San Francisco
1. The Warfield
The Warfield is one of the best event spaces in all of the city. Here you will find the best comedians, musicians, and shows. Artists such as Bob Dylan, Prince, and George Lopez have all played here. The Warfield seats 2,250 people and all the seats are excellent.
There is also standing room for some shows so you can get right up in front and dance the night away. Some shows are general admission while others are reserved seating.
982 Market Street
Here are just a few of their upcoming performances.
2. Golden Gate Theater
This is another classic in the Mid-Market in San Francisco. Here you will see Broadway shows, musicals, and so much more. Some of these include Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, Madonna, Anastasia, and others. You will find about six to seven Broadway shows each year at the Golden Gate Theater along with more than a dozen other performances.
Many of the shows are kid-friendly so the whole family can enjoy this beautiful theater. The seating areas include the Orchestra floor, Mezzanine, and Balcony, which can hold about 2,000 people altogether. This will give you lots of choices and you will have a great view no matter where you are for your show.
1 Taylor Street
3. Orpheum Theater
This is probably the best-known theater in San Francisco and it is home to top Broadway shows every year. Like the Golden Gate Theater, there are about 2,200 seats. The Orpheum is famous because of its classic look and style, while also having some of the most famous shows anywhere.
These include Wicked, Mama Mia, and the incredible Hamilton, among others. You will love the interior as it will seem as if you have traveled back to the 1920s with the classic designs and architecture.
1192 Market Street
4. The Strand
If you are looking for an intimate playhouse in the Mid-Market in San Francisco, this is probably the theater for you. It holds just under 300 people and is mostly ground-level seating with a small balcony section. This is one of two locations for SF's American Conservatory Theater (A.C.T.).
You will usually find lesser-known shows here, but they are still of the best quality. Being a more alternative space, this allows for the shows to be ground-breaking pieces that are more innovative compared to the ones you'll find at larger venues.
1127 Market Street
5. International Art Museum of America
Located in the heart of San Francisco, this is where you will find many innovative and original shows and exhibits. Some of the permanent ones include Chinese Art and Calligraphy, Western Art, and others.
The International Art Museum of America also hosts a number of exhibitions that change regularly so you are sure to see something new every time. I love this art museum because I always find a different way of looking at art, and life, whenever I visit here.
It is a lesser known museum in SF, but well worth taking the time to see and enjoying everything it has to offer. They are open Wednesday through Sunday and admission is free.
1023 Market Street.
Top Restaurants
1. Tú Lan
This is the perfect restaurant in the Mid-Market in San Francisco if you are looking for Asian food. It has been around since 1977, so you know they are making authentic Vietnamese cuisine that's been long appreciated by the community.
Some of their best dishes include the ginger chicken, marinated pork with bean cake, and their massive egg rolls. They have vegan and vegetarian options, so there is something for everyone.
It is a small place with an unassuming exterior; you might miss it if you don't pay attention. 8 6th Street
2. Cadillac Bar and Grill
This place serves up some tasty Tex-Mex fare with a pretty standard selection of drinks. It's a casual setting where you can kick back and enjoy a sports game with some chips and guacamole.
Their puffy taco is famous, and their churros and empanadas are also delicious. What I like about them is their happy hour specials.
Being so close to the Financial District, you'll see groups of coworkers flock here when the workday ends. 44 9th Street
3. Montesacro Pinseria SF
Stepping into this place is like stepping into an old Roman tavern with long wooden tables, hearty authentic Italian food, and good wine.
The main culinary attraction here is the pinsas (similar to pizzas, an ancient flatbread that they've managed to spice up with creative, modern flavors). If you're looking for a unique dining experience, this warm, cozy place will hit the spot. 510 Stevenson Street
4. 54 Mint
If you're looking for something a little more upscale, but not at all pretentious, head over to SF's historic Mint Plaza to check out this chic Italian restaurant. Created by a real Italian culinary staff, this place's homemade pastas are out of this world.
They've also got an impressive selection of Italian wines, and they use fresh seasonal ingredients to personally concoct your cocktail. 16 Mint Plaza
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn San Francisco Downtown: This 3-star hotel is another option for your stay in Mid-Market in San Francisco. It's conveniently located near Union Square, SoMa, and transit options. The staff is friendly and will help you with last-minute travel plans. 942 Mission Street. Find rooms here for your stay
Hotel Zetta: Another top pick here is the Hotel Zetta. This hotel is a 4-star hotel with a lot to offer. It's a trendy hotel with lots of amenities. It offers clean, modern rooms and is the perfect find for your stay. 55 5th Street. Visit here for more information on rooms
San Francisco Proper Hotel: This 4-star property is located in a historic flatiron building right on Market Street, a short walk to the theaters and tons of transit options. With an eclectic style, you'll enjoy the comforts of free breakfast, Wi-Fi, HDTV, and more. 1100 Market Street.
How to Get Here
It's really easy to get to Mid-Market in San Francisco. Since it sits along Market Street, you will find dozens of transit options.
Light Rail: The light rail has two stops nearby. One is at Powell Street (just east of the district) and one is for the Civic Center (on the western end). Both offer great access and all trains stop at both stations.
Buses: There are more than a dozen Muni bus routes along Market Street, so you will easily find a bus to your destination.
BART: The BART Powell and Civic Center stops are also right near the district. Both offer easy access to the East Bay, south of SF, and SFO.
>> Learn more about getting around SF
Where to Park in Mid-Market in San Francisco
You will find a few places to park here.
BEI Hotel: 50 8th Street
SOMA Grand Garage: 1160 Mission Street
Priority Parking Lot: 486 Jessie Street
6x6 Garage: 945 Market Street
>> Find additional places to park around SF
Things to See & Do Nearby
Bill Graham Civic Auditorium: This is one of the most famous, and best, locations for live music. This venue holds about 8,500 people and has both general and VIP options. The interior, and exterior, are both gorgeous and every seat has a fantastic view. Bands such as the Grateful Dead, Bob Dylan, and others have played here back in the day while more current ones include Illesium, Deadmau5, and more. 99 Grove Street. See a schedule of upcoming performances and more about this venue.
South of Market (SOMA): This is a great area for museums, shows and restaurants near Union Square and Fisherman's Wharf. You will find the Museum of Modern Art, Giants baseball games, and great places to eat and drink throughout it. I love that this area close to the Mid-Market in San Francisco also has loads of festivals, murals, and loads of places for all your shopping needs and desires. Learn more about visiting.
Union Square: One of my favorite places to sit, relax, and people watch, this is a must-visit on any trip to SF. Not only is this home to lots of theaters, shopping, bars and nightlife, you can also grab a cable car or take one of the many tours that start or stop here. Make sure to check out the gorgeous "Hearts of San Francisco" art pieces that call Union Square home. Find out more about visiting.
More Cool Districts Around San Francisco
Comments? Questions? Suggestions?
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