Ferry Building Marketplace: A San Francisco Icon

The San Francisco Ferry Building Marketplace, located at the foot of Market Street along the Embarcadero, is a testament to the city's vibrant history and thriving present. Opened in 1898, this iconic landmark initially served as the city's primary transportation hub, welcoming as many as 50,000 commuters daily who arrived by ferry. Designed by architect A. Page Brown in the Beaux-Arts style, the building's elegant arches and 245-foot clock tower, inspired by the Giralda bell tower in Seville, Spain, quickly became a symbol of San Francisco. For decades, the Ferry Building was the second-busiest transit terminal in the world, connecting San Francisco to the East Bay and beyond. However, with the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge in the 1930s, ferry traffic declined, and the building's role diminished. In the 1950s, the historic interior was lost when the building was converted into office space, and the Embarcadero Freeway further obscured its beauty. In March 2003, the Ferry Building was reborn as the Ferry Building Marketplace, marking the end of an extensive four-year restoration project. The restoration recreated the building's historic Grand Hall, with its 660-foot-long skylit nave, now housing a collection of artisan food purveyors. Today, the Ferry Building Marketplace is a vibrant destination for food lovers, offering a diverse array of local and regional products. Inside the Ferry Building Marketplace, you'll find a curated selection of shops and restaurants, each offering a unique taste of Northern California. Acme Bread Company, a Bay Area institution, offers a variety of artisan breads, including their famous sourdough. Cowgirl Creamery's Artisan Cheese Shop showcases a selection of handcrafted cheeses from local producers. For those with a sweet tooth, Dandelion Chocolate offers bean-to-bar chocolates made in small batches, while Miette Patisserie tempts with Parisian-style confections. The Ferry Building Marketplace is also home to several sit-down restaurants, offering a range of culinary experiences. Hog Island Oyster Company serves fresh oysters and seafood with stunning views of the bay. Gott's Roadside offers classic American fare with a gourmet twist, including their famous ahi burger and hand-spun milkshakes. Boulettes Larder is known for its country-inspired breakfasts and communal tables. Beyond the food, the Ferry Building Marketplace is a gathering place for the community. The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, brings together local farmers and producers, offering fresh produce, flowers, and artisan goods. The marketplace also hosts events throughout the year, including cooking demonstrations, tasting events, and live music. The Ferry Building's location on the Embarcadero makes it easily accessible by public transportation, including BART, Muni, and ferry. The historic F-line streetcar stops directly in front of the building, adding to its charm and accessibility. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor from afar, the Ferry Building Marketplace offers a unique and unforgettable experience. A significant restoration effort was completed in 2024, preserving the historic character of the building. The four-year project repaired portions of the façade and repainted the exterior in “Ferry Building Gray,” a custom-blended paint representing the varied warm gray tones of the building's original Colusa sandstone. Visiting the Ferry Building is more than just a shopping trip; it's an immersion into the Bay Area's culinary culture and a celebration of its history. From the stunning architecture to the diverse array of food and goods, the Ferry Building Marketplace offers something for everyone. It's a place where you can connect with local producers, sample regional specialties, and experience the vibrant spirit of San Francisco. The Ferry Building Marketplace is committed to fostering the values of the artisan food community. It operates as a community gathering-place for the celebration of local culture and cuisine, showcases small regional producers that practice traditional farming or production techniques, promotes the Bay Area's vast diversity, and serves as an incubator for artisan producers. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a unique San Francisco experience, the Ferry Building Marketplace is a must-visit destination. Come explore the flavors of Northern California, soak in the history, and discover why this iconic landmark continues to be a beloved symbol of the city.