Ghiradelli Square

Address	900 N. Point (between Polk and Larkin Streets)
Hours	Shops generally open 10am – 9pm in the summer and 10am – 6pm in the winter.
Phone	415-775-5500

Although most of the shops and attractions in the waterfront area of Fisherman’s Wharf can be overpriced and touristy, be sure to wander through Ghiradelli Square.

The site of one of San Francisco’s tastiest exports ever, most of the redbrick buildings in the complex were part of the chocolate-making factory owned by Domingo Ghiradelli. The factory itself dates back to 1864 when it manufactured Civil War uniforms, but its better know for its spice and chocolate production. Look for the placards throughout the complex that point out interesting information about the square and the old factory.

The buildings have now been converted into 20 dining establishments (including succulent seafood restaurants), and more than 50 stores that sell everything, including souvenirs, gifts and clothing.

Unfortunately you won’t enjoy the smell of chocolate wafting through the air, but the Ghiradelli Chocolate Company still produces chocolate. The factory, however, is situated in a lower-rent area of East Bay. But the shops in the square do sell Ghiradelli chocolate products so you can take a bar home as a souvenir. Or you may be tempted to enjoy your Ghiradelli chocolate while watching the street performers that often entertain passersby at the nearby West Plaza.