Best Shopping In Union Square

If Tony Bennett is still looking for his heart, he might find it in Union Square. This centrally located plaza is the traditional hub of downtown, surrounded by the city's largest hotels and home to some of San Francisco's best shopping. Cable cars roll past as bag-laden shoppers hit the mega-stores like Macy's and Barney's to the chic boutiques of Maiden Lane. Here's our list of what not to miss is Union Square.

Sur La Table

77 Maiden Ln.
(415) 732-7900
Sur La Table

Kitchen and cooking shops are a dime a dozen in this foodie town, but Sur La Table is the crème de la crème! The Maiden Lane location has two floors devoted to cookware for chefs at every level, from the most complex Cuinsinart to bumblebee spatulas. You can literally find everything, including your own chef's jacket and hat, to complete your kitchen. Sur La Table offers a slightly smaller Ferry Building location as well.

Lush

240 Powell St.
(415) 693-9633
Lush

Everything is luscious at Lush, from the food-inspired shower gel to bath balls, that fizz and fragrance your soak. This British company has outlets all over the worls, but the Union Square shop is the first Lush stateside. Make sure to try out some samples and read the colorful product descriptions, written on chalkboards and sure to make you smile. Ask questions, the staff is super friendly, and don't leave without slicing yourself a bar of colorful soap. The travel bar of shampoo is a must for frequent travelers.

Apple Store

1 Stockton St.
(415) 392-0202
Apple Store

Just north of the company's headquarters, San Francisco's two-story showroom offers shelves and tables packed with products for you to play with. The second floor comes complete with a theater, home to classes, repairs, demonstrations and explanations. Tech savvy and tremendously convenient, if it's got an Apple on it, it's here.

Loehmann's

222 Sutter St.
(415) 982-3215
Loehmann's

This is 41,000 square feet of discount designer duds, including fashion for the whole family, accessories, casual comforts to ballgowns. You'll find it all at Loehmann's, but be prepared to dig for these deep discounts. Head to the third floor to shop big name labels from all over the world. If you've never hit this San Francisco landmark before, be warned: The fitting room is one big room. Leave your modesty at the door.

Gump's

135 Post St.
(415) 982-1616
Gump's

A giant golden Buddha presides over this San Francisco institution offering fine items for the home. While the price point is starts at sky-high, it's worth a lap around both floors of Gump's just for the experience. The finest in home wares, jewelry, gifts and stunning objects d'art, Gump's blends the Far East with old school San Francisco. Make sure you sample the store's own label of scented products, and swing by the huge coffee table piled with books on local interest.