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From world-class art to locally designed jewelry, we’ve tracked down the best shopping in the world’s coolest cities. Find that last-minute holiday gift, or take home something memorable for yourself.
Best Neighborhood Shops in....
Best Neighborhood Shops
San Francisco
Gump’s 135 Post St. Union Square, 800-766-7628 gumps.com
The Draw: Gump’s is almost as synonymous with San Francisco as the Golden Gate Bridge. The sprawling two-level shop, located in the heart of the Union Square shopping district, is ground zero for luxury gifts and house wares. Think pristine fine china, crystal and tabletop gifts from Bernardaud, Hermes, Raynaud, and more. The Scene: Countless shoppers swing into Gump’s and leave with their signature red shopping bags. During the holiday season, Gump’s opens its famous Santa Shop on the first floor, which entices visitors with glittering ornaments, stocking stuffers, nutcrackers, and nostalgia-inducing classic toys and games. The bottom level of the store also serves as a gallery of sorts, showcasing unique decorative pieces and sculptures from a variety of artists. Of course, you’ll also find Gump’s usual selection of fine and estate jewelry from the likes of Buccellati and Lynn Nakamura, artisanal chocolates, gorgeous stationery, and Gump’s own line of home fragrances. Hot Tip: If you can’t find something you’re looking for, Gump’s also has a selection on its website that is unavailable in the store.
Molte
Cose 2044 Polk St., 415-921-5374
The Draw: Lovers of all things vintage flock to this Russian Hill boutique, which is actually divided into three connected shops. Molte Cose is Italian for “many things,” and it’s a charming spot stocked with one-of-a-kind trinkets, making it perfect for hostess gifts and stocking stuffers. The Scene: On the first floor, you’ll find antique jewelry (including intricate brooches and classic chandelier earrings), new and antique plates and glasses, vintage handbags, and more. Walking up a few steps into the middle boutique, In Mezzo, you’ll find stylish gifts and accessories for the dapper man in your life (think cool cigar boxes and checkerboards, as well as hats). Meander to the top level, which is called Belle Cose, where romantic treats such as lacy lingerie, a small selection of new tops and dresses, and adorable-but-affordable heels and flats are all almost too cute to resist. Hot Tip: The lovely ladies of Belle Cose host fabulous lingerie parties.
The Draw: Pacific Heights’ Fillmore Street is famous for its unique shops, and Nest certainly fits the bill, stocking all the accoutrements for the discerning buyer’s stylish home. The Scene: There’s an element of whimsy at play here; glance above the glass cases housing wooden toys and colorful children’s books, and you’ll see a row of antique birdhouses and cuckoo clocks for inspiration. Walk through the store, and you’ll find up-to-the-minute design books, cookbooks, and guidebooks stacked next to pretty note cards, calendars, and olive-oil soaps. Home accents, such as patterned quilts and throws, abound. Glass cases house gorgeous jewelry, while two racks at the back of the store offer flowy shirts and tunics from the likes of Tocca. Hot Tip: Sets of gorgeous glass tumblers, pitchers, and decanters make the perfect housewarming gifts.
