From fashionable boutiques to tasty eats, here are some of our favorite spots that support the LGBTQ community in San Francisco.
Emerson Boyle and Benjamin Boso, owners of Ampersand
Ampersand
A botanical boutique in the Castro-Duboce district, Ampersand is a self-proclaimed hub for seekers of beautiful spaces, thoughtfully curated things, all the blooms and plenty of good vibes. Shop for fabulous florals and plants, home goods and chic gifts, among other goodies. Looking for a chic spot to host a Pride party? The space doubles as a venue for private events, featuring nature-inspired decor, modern furniture, high ceilings and low lighting. 2190 Market St., ampersandsf.com
Sui Generis
Sui Generis is a carefully curated designer consignment shop boasting classic European designers—think Prada, Gucci and Louis Vuitton—and Japanese fashion houses like Comme des Garçons, among others. Vintage fashion gurus Miguel Lopez and Gabriel Yanez, the dynamic duo in charge, have been immersed in the retail world since the early ’90s and pull thoughtfully selected pieces for the ultimate shopping experience. For Pride month, the hot spot is offering $50 off any full-price sale of $200 or more through June 30, valid both in store and online with code SGPRIDE22. 2231 Market St., 415.437.2231, suigenerisconsignment.com
HauteButch
Interpreting the aesthetic of menswear through masculine-inspired androgynous clothing, HauteButch is blazing a trail through the LGBTQ fashion landscape. Both a queer- and Black-owned brand, the online retailer creates high-quality, ethically manufactured apparel for all, from comfort tees and accessories to suits and vests. hautebutch.com
Casements Bar
Serving up a worldly selection of beer and spirits alongside elevated bar fare, Casements Bar offers more than just a hint of Irish flair. The cocktail den, founded on the belief that people should be who they are and fight for others’ rights to do the same, is named in honor of Sir Roger Casement, an Irish poet and human rights activist unjustly charged with treason, subsequently outed as a gay man and ultimately executed. Sip on cheeky offerings like The Irish Hate Root Beer, Peas for Bees, Cara Merchant and Paying Our Dews.2351 Mission St., 415.658.7320, casementsbar.com
Twin Peaks Tavern
Often referred to as the gay Cheers, the iconic Twin Peaks Tavern boasts one of the best views in the city through full-length, open-plate panoramic windows—a gateway to the Castro. With vintage leather bar stools, dark wood paneling and all of the charm of a different era, this historical landmark is the place to stop for a drink. 401 Castro St., 415.864.9470, twinpeakstavern.com
Understory
A recent Oakland addition, Understory was developed by the 8th Street Collective in collaboration with nonprofit Oakland Bloom with the idea of consensus-based worker leadership in mind. Stop by for weekend brunch and nosh on a harissa-fried chicken sandwich on a buttermilk biscuit or the tortang talong—a roasted eggplant omelet with a seasonal salad. 528 Eighth St., Oakland, 510.817.4356, understoryoakland.com
Photography by: COME PLUM/PRAISE SANTOS
