New Places to Shop, Sip and Enjoy Rooftop Views

Alexander Valley–based Eco Terreno Wines & Vineyard debuted its Jackson Square tasting room in November. Executive chef Joe Ball, formerly of La Folie, is responsible for the small bites that accompany the sips. Four wine-tasting experiences are available, starting at $50 (Bee Classic, five wines) and topping out at $130 per person (Lyon’s Pride, champagne followed by a five-course food-and-wine pairing). Located in a historic building, the venue now showcases the design talents of San Francisco–based StudioHeimat, who were inspired not only by Eco Terreno’s landscape in Cloverdale, but also by the brand’s regenerative farming practices. The new ground-floor tasting room, awash in earthy hues, features hand-painted murals of the vineyards. 

Presidio Post

1301 Mason Street, San Francisco; presidiopost.com

Although situated at the corner of Mason and Jackson streets, Carson Ross and Tahnee Folsom’s new retail endeavor is named for another part of the City: When the couple — both fashion designers — moved from New York to San Francisco in 2018, their first apartment was at Presidio and Post. Their Nob Hill shop stocks vintage creations alongside independent brands that offer well-made garments with small production runs (like Andersen-Andersen, Dehen 1920 and Rachel Comey). “Even with the newer pieces,” says Ross, “you’ll feel like the only one who has it.” He and Folsom started out by selling at local fairs a few years ago, saving up for a space that they could take a hands-on approach to transforming; Presidio Post’s 800 square feet are outfitted with cherry cabinets that Ross built. In addition to men’s and women’s apparel and accessories, the merchandise includes home goods, art and periodicals. According to Ross, the plan is to add pantry items and fresh flowers — a nod to the location’s previous life as a grocery store.

The Finerie

1909 Fillmore Street, San Francisco; thefineriesf.com

With the recent opening of their women’s boutique and social space, longtime friends Jennifer Derrick and Mayola Martinez manifested the type of business they wish existed in San Francisco. “Our target customer is basically ourselves — fashion-conscious women, over 35, who want to have fun and look and feel great about themselves,” says Derrick. Shoppers can delight in women’s clothing and accessories from labels such as Staud, Ronny Kobo and Mille, plus housewares from the likes of Sir/Madam and Evangeline Linens. Envisioned as “more than a store — a place for like-minded women to get together, connect and create a community,” Derrick adds, The Finerie hosts monthly events, as well as allows customers to hold their own events, in its light and airy space, which features wood floors, terrazzo tiles and rattan light fixtures.

Graduate Hotel Palo Alto

488 University Avenue, Palo Alto; graduatehotels.com

Following a historic restoration, the former Hotel President is now a Graduate Hotel. CEO and founder Ben Weprin notes that Palo Alto “has long been a dream market” for his company. The 100-room property, housed in a 1929 Spanish Colonial–style building, is slated to bow this month. Its six floors include hand-painted redwoods-themed wallpaper and details that reflect the hotel’s proximity to Stanford University (such as Cardinal John Steinbeck’s novels in rooms). The lobby level’s all-day cafe, Lou and Herbert’s, serves Saint Frank Coffee and Manresa Bread treats, while the President’s Terrace rooftop bar boasts an outdoor fireplace and panoramic views. (Longtime ground-floor tenants President Barber Shop and Hemingway Cigars and Tobacco are still there.)