The Ferry Building Marketplace

Don’t be misled by the name. The San Francisco Ferry Building is not merely a transit hub; it encompasses a vibrant marketplace brimming with culinary delights. It is more than just a place for the weekly farmers market—it’s a haven for food enthusiasts. Inside, open-fronted shops showcase Northern California’s boutique specialty food makers. You can find local treasures such as Rancho Gordo dried beans, Boccolone Salumeria charcuterie, and Frog Hollow Farms stone fruits and jams.

Moreover, you can enjoy a full meal within the marketplace. Consider dining at Marketbar Restaurant, where the menu utilizes ingredients sourced directly from the market. Other popular options include Gott’s Roadside for gourmet hamburgers and milkshakes, and the upscale Vietnamese restaurant, The Slanted Door. For seafood lovers, Hog Island Oyster Company offers fresh shellfish straight from their Tomales Bay farms, often at discounted prices during Happy Hour specials.

San Francisco Ferry Building Farmers Market

Outdoors, the San Francisco Ferry Building hosts a lively organic farmers market. This market runs year-round on several days of the week, with the largest event taking place on Saturday mornings. Local chefs and food enthusiasts flock to the market seeking fresh seasonal produce. However, even visitors who are not cooking during their stay can revel in the variety available, from fresh fruit to ready-to-eat baked goods and other prepared foods.

Touring the San Francisco Ferry Building

Historically, until the late 1930s, the San Francisco Ferry Building served as the primary entry point for travelers arriving from the north. Its iconic 240-foot clock tower, modeled after Seville, Spain’s 12th-century bell tower, has been an enduring symbol of San Francisco’s waterfront for over a century. If you’re interested in learning more about the building’s rich architecture and history, be sure to join one of the free walking tours offered by San Francisco City Guides several days a week.

What You Need to Know About the Ferry Building Marketplace

The marketplace is open daily; however, some businesses may close early or remain closed on holidays. Located along the scenic San Francisco waterfront, you’ll easily spot the Ferry Building where Market Street meets The Embarcadero near the Bay Bridge.

Moreover, allocate at least an hour to fully experience the marketplace. It’s advisable to bring a shopping bag, as you’ll be tempted to carry home some of the delightful local goods. Saturdays tend to be the liveliest, so plan accordingly. For a complete list of the shops, visit the Ferry Building Marketplace website.

Ferry Building Marketplace
One Ferry Building
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco Ferry Building website

The most convenient way to reach the Ferry Building is by taking one of the historic Embarcadero F-line streetcars, which conveniently stop in front of the building. Additionally, many ferries operate from behind the Ferry Building. A unique and enjoyable arrival option includes taking a pedicab from the Pier 39/Fisherman’s Wharf area, allowing you to savor the scenic waterfront views.

Parking is available nearby at 75 Howard St. and Embarcadero at Washington, or consider using the ParkMe app to locate cost-effective parking options. Remember that on-street parking is metered, and the Embarcadero Center parking lot is also within walking distance.

¹ Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November.