Also called “Central Market,” San Francisco's Mid-Market proves that evolution is ever-present in this exciting metropolis. As a historic district in Downtown
San Francisco, it's one of the city's oldest neighborhoods. For years, it remained the same, practically chained to the past and often overlooked by those in the present. But ever since it started revitalizing, Mid-Market emerged as a new, exciting hub for business, art, food, nightlife, and more. Today, Mid-Market offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences. It's gotten so better here that many now regard it as one of the best places to stay in San Francisco.
Where is Mid-Market in San Francisco?
You'll find Mid-Market right by the Downtown area, in the middle of
San Francisco's central neighborhoods. The district spans seven blocks along Market Street, connecting the Civic Center to the Financial Center. Apart from its luxurious homes, it's thanks to this very central location that Mid-Market remains one of the city's most coveted areas. Staying here places you right at the heart of the city, specifically in the middle of all the hustle and bustle. And with public transport easily accessible, you won't find any trouble navigating the city from here.
Is it Safe in Mid-Market, San Francisco?
Unfortunately, Mid-Market is far from the safest neighborhood in San Francisco. It even suffers from a reputation as one of the more dangerous parts of the city. Though this is still debatable, there's still no denying that you need to take the necessary safety precautions when you go out, especially at night. Mid-Market suffers from some of the highest
crime rates in San Francisco, and since it's downtown, it's easy for all sorts of characters to infiltrate its streets. Fortunately, the Mid-Market Business Association is working hard to make the area much safer moving forward.
What's The Vibe in Mid-Market, San Francisco?
Mid-Market embodies the urban 21st-century frenzy that is San Francisco today. Numerous tech companies set their headquarters here, making it as much of a major business hub as the Financial District. But while the latter flourishes with big business and big money, this neighborhood thrives with state-of-the-art technology and exciting creativity. Chic galleries provide high art in the area too, while upscale restaurants highlight haute cuisine, and bars are always bustling at night. Those who want to
relocate to San Francisco to advance their careers and live the good life will want to settle down here.
Is it Expensive in Mid-Market, San Francisco?
Yes, it is. When people talk about the high
living costs in San Francisco, they're usually referring to neighborhoods like Mid-Market. Most of its restaurants are upscale, typically costing as much as $100.00 per meal, while its shops feature designer brands and luxury labels. And the rent? The average here is about $3,400.00 per month! Not only is it the same as the city-wide average, but this price is already more expensive than the average rent in various neighborhoods in New York City or Los Angeles.
What to See in Mid-Market, San Francisco
True to its urban setting, Mid-Market's most notable sights to see are typical big-city fanfare. Go to Piazza Angelo, for instance, and check out its stunning sculptures. Especially Venus, the tallest sculpture in all of San Francisco. If you're fascinated by the city's famous cable cars, you can learn all about them at the San Francisco Cable Car Museum. And if you're up for some performance art, catch a show at the Strand Theatre, which stands out with its famous crimson facade. You won't miss its bright red exterior amidst Mid-Market's concrete buildings and glass-encased skyscrapers.
What to Do in Mid-Market, San Francisco
Mid-Market is the best place to truly enjoy the big-city lifestyle in San Francisco. Since it's right by Downtown San Francisco, you're not too far from its numerous urban attractions and other hotspots. Check out the area's art scene, from the various galleries to the famous Strand Theatre for performance art. Indulge in the city's foodie scene, specifically around Mint Plaza, which is surrounded by popular and emerging eateries. And if you want to shop, you can go to either the San Francisco Centre along Market Street or Neiman Marcus on Stockton Street.
The Best Restaurants in Mid-Market, San Francisco
The best thing about Mid-Market's culinary scene is that it's as diverse as the city itself. The neighborhood boasts different cuisines, vibes, and most importantly, price ranges. Cafes, in particular, dot the area, from La Cuisine Café on Market Street to the Chai Bar by David Rio on California Street. Craving some Italian? You can indulge in the most authentic at 54 Mint Cucina Romana, which is one of the many fine establishments that line Mint Plaza. Be it pasta or tiramisu, this place serves real Italian food!
Mid-Market’s restaurants are some of the best in San Francisco, especially:
- 54 Mint Cucina Romana near Mint Plaza
- Absinthe Brasserie & Bar on Hayes Street
- Freekeh on 16th Street
- Kiln on Fell Street
- L'Ardoise Bistro on Noe Street
- Liholiho Yacht Club on Sutter Street
- Montesacro Pinseria - SoMa on Stevenson Street
- Sotto Mare on Green Street
- Sweet Maple on Sutter Street
- The Bite on Mission Street
What to Know About Renting in Mid-Market, San Francisco
As already mentioned, Mid-Market has some of the most expensive
luxury apartments to rent in San Francisco. The average here is already $3,400.00 per month, the same as the city-wide average and almost double the nation-wide average. And $3,400.00 per month usually applies to just studio flats or one-bedroom rentals. If you want to stay in a bigger place in Mid-Market, expect to have to pay as much as $5,000.00 to $10,000.00 per month. At the very least, the quality of said homes almost always equals their startlingly high rental fees.
As a prominent neighborhood, Mid-Market continues to evolve and welcome everyone to its bustling streets. It’s one of the best places in all of San Francisco, especially since it’s a diverse district with all sorts of people, vibes, and more.
