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{{Header|San Francisco 09/21}}
{{Header|San Francisco 09/21}}
== Adult venues in San Francisco ==
* '''Secrets Boutique''', Adult entertainment store,
: 1030 Kearny St  (415) 391-9246
: "Welcome to Secrets Boutique of San Francisco, a sanctuary where patrons can explore and purchase a diverse selection of intimate products in a welcoming environment. Our knowledgeable staff offer discreet guidance, ensuring each shopper feels comfortable and empowered by their choices. Our curated collection caters to diverse preferences and desires, from sensual massage oils to enhancers to innovative bedroom accessories. With a commitment to inclusivity and privacy, we prioritize customer satisfaction, fostering a safe space for exploration and self-expression. Whether seeking solo pleasure or enhancing intimacy with a partner, our shop provides a judgment-free zone where pleasure knows no boundaries."
{{hr}}
* '''Garden of Eden''', Adult entertainment club,
: 529 Broadway  (415) 397-2596 [https://goe-sf.com/ goe-sf.com]
: "Garden of Eden's adult entertainment offers a fully nude stage experience, private lap dances, and intimate rooms with plenty of VIP booths, and plush seating. If you're looking to host a bachelor or bachelorette party we offer great packages for you and your guests. Download our app, join our mailing list and follow us on social media today for weekly updates and VIP specials including discounted admission!"
{{hr}}
* '''Palm Beach Arcade,''' Adult entertainment store
:  1043 Kearny St  (415) 362-5405
{{hr}}
* '''Romeo and Juliet's,''' Adult entertainment store,
: 389 Bay St (415) 391-9349
{{hr}}
* '''Deja Vu Centerfolds''', Adult entertainment club
: 391 Broadway (415) 834-0662 [https://centerfoldssf.com/ website]
: "Deja Vu Centerfolds, located off of Broadway, is an Adult entertainment club in San Francisco. Offering a fully nude strip club experience, food menu, lap-dances, VIP booths, and non-alcoholic bar. Having a bachelor party or a bachelorette party? Wanting a fun memorable night out with your friends? Then come join us and call ahead to make a reservation for a private room or VIP booth today!"
{{hr}}
* '''The Crazy Horse'''
: 980 Market St, (415) 771-6259 [https://crazyhorse-sf.com/website]
: "The World Famous Crazy Horse Gentleman's Club has been serving the Bay Area for over 25 years with the best full nude dancers, exotic, XXX feature entertainers, and today's hottest adult film stars. Party your night away while taking in all the luxurious looks that the famed San Francisco Bay Area has to offer. Our exclusive venue features several top-notch amenities including VIP Rooms, Platinum Rooms, the Owner's Suite, and unprecedented levels of glitz and glamour. There's no better place to celebrate a bachelor party, a birthday, or just a night out on the town! Located near the intersection of Market and 6th Streets in the Mid-Market District of San Francisco. Located near BART and Muni stations and near The Golden Gate Theater."
{{hr}}
* '''Condor Club,''' Adult entertainment club,
: 560 Broadway  (415) 781-8222
:The [[Condor Club]] nightclub is a striptease bar or topless bar in the North Beach section of San Francisco, California The club became famous in 1964 as the first fully topless nightclub in America, featuring the dancer Carol Doda wearing a monokini.
{{hr}}
* '''EROS a Queer Sex Club''', Adult entertainment club
: 132 Turk St  (415) 966-9333 https://erossf.com/
: Discover the ultimate LGBTQ club experience at EROS @the Bulldog, where you can unwind or get busy in a safe and inclusive environment.
{{hr}}
* '''Larry Flynt's Hustler Club''',
: 1031 Kearny St, (415) 434-1301, https://hustlerclubsf.com/
: "If you're looking for somewhere to host your next event or bachelor party, you have come to the right place. At Hustler Club San Francisco, we offer topless live adult entertainment in San Francisco by our World Famous Hustler Honeys. Join us for an exclusive VIP bottle service experience any night of the week. Our VIP bottle service includes an unlimited assortment of mixers, garnishes, ice, and stemware. We will ensure that our hottest Hustler Honey will take exceptional care of you and your guests all night."
{{hr}}
* '''Vanity San Francisco''', Adult entertainment club
: 408 Broadway [https://vanitysf.com/ website]
: "Vanity is the premier San Francisco nightlife destination with all of the elegance and class you could think of. Vanity offers deluxe amenities including VIP Bottle Service with VIP packages and varying themes to satisfy every indulgence. With 12,000 square feet of space, sensuous ladies on staff, and all the VIP amenities you could dream of. The two-story, 300-500 capacity venue will start with events two nights a week. DJs play open-format house music along with other wild entertainment. Amenities at Vanity will include VIP concierge services, 2 levels of bottle service tables, a massive sound & lighting system, and feature a world-renowned DJ lineup, live performers & concerts, along with eye-catching visuals."
{{hr}}
* '''Folsom Gulch,''' Adult entertainment store
: 947 Folsom St, (415) 495-6402, 
: "Welcome to Folsom Gulch, a gay sanctuary where patrons can explore and purchase a diverse selection of intimate products in a welcoming environment. Our knowledgeable staff offers discreet guidance, ensuring each shopper feels comfortable and empowered by their choices. From sensual massage oils to enhancers to innovative bedroom accessories, our curated collection caters to diverse preferences and desires. With a commitment to inclusivity and privacy, we prioritize customer satisfaction, fostering a safe space for exploration and self-expression. Whether seeking solo pleasure or enhancing intimacy with a partner, our shop provides a judgment-free zone where pleasure knows no boundaries."
{{hr}}
* '''Soma Secrets''', Adult entertainment store
: 99 - 6th St,  (415) 495-5573
: "Welcome to SOMA Secrets, a sanctuary where patrons can explore and purchase a diverse selection of intimate products in a welcoming environment. Our knowledgeable staff offers discreet guidance, ensuring each shopper feels comfortable and empowered by their choices. From sensual massage oils to enhancers to innovative bedroom accessories, our curated collection caters to diverse preferences and desires. With a commitment to inclusivity and privacy, we prioritize customer satisfaction, fostering a safe space for exploration and self-expression. Whether seeking solo pleasure or enhancing intimacy with a partner, our shop provides a judgment-free zone where pleasure knows no boundaries."
{{hr}}
* '''Power Exchange''', Night club
: 220 Jones St, 415-487-9944 [https://www.powerexchange.com/ website]
: "Power Exchange is gritty, wild, and absolutely not for the faint of heart. We’ve been—been there, done that, put on a show (literally). And yes, it can be thrilling if you’re an exhibitionist and find yourself the center of attention with a dozen single dudes watching with bated breath. But let’s be real—it’s seedy as all get out.
: "This isn’t your upscale swinger spot with soft lighting and curated cocktails. It's a sex club with dark hallways, voyeur balconies, broom-closet playrooms, and a crowd that’s equal parts horny and unhinged. Staff? Mostly rude. Gave us TSA vibes without the professionalism.
: "Still, if you’re in the mood for chaos, kink, and a crowd that really wants to watch? Power Exchange might just scratch that dirty little itch. See our full review on Vanilla Swingers blog."
{{hr}}
* '''Does Your Mother Know''', Adult entertainment store
: 450 Castro St, (415) 864-3160 [https://dymkmedia.wixsite.com/does-your-mother-k-1 website]
: "The Castro’s largest Adult gifts, novelties, and card store since 1979. Our lube and toy selections will wow you! Be prepared to show ID if you look 25 or younger, or use a credit card. Don’t forget to ask for help, it can sometimes be overwhelming..."
{{hr}}
* '''Good Vibrations''' Polk, Adult entertainment store
: 1620 Polk St, [https://www.goodvibes.com/ website]
{{hr}}
* '''Mission Secrets''', Adult DVD store
: 2086 Mission St,  (415) 626-0309
{{hr}}
* '''Good Vibrations Valencia''', Adult entertainment store
: 603 Valencia Street (at, 17th St)
{{hr}}
* '''My Secret Sex Toy''' Delivery, Adult entertainment store
{{hr}}
* '''Rock Hard''', Adult entertainment store,
: 518 Castro St, (415) 437-2430
: "The Castro’s friendliest store since 1998 selling Adult Gifts, Novelties, and Cards. Locals and tourists alike shop for popular supplements and pop’s. Our large selection of lotions, fetish, and novelties make shopping fun. Be warned, we ID for those looking under 25, and Credit Cards!"
{{hr}}
* '''Good Vibrations Downtown''', Adult entertainment store
: 899 Mission St,  (415) 590-6296 [https://www.goodvibes.com/ website]
{{hr}}
* '''New Century Theater'''
: 816 Larkin St, (415) 776-0212 [https://newcenturysf.com/ website]
" "The New Century Theater is thrilled to announce that we are now under new management as of July 25th, 2023! Welcome to New Century Theater San Francisco, located on the corner of O'Farrell and Larkin. With a fresh, dynamic team, we're entering an exciting new chapter, upholding our values while aiming for even higher heights. We are a premier nude adult entertainment venue open seven days a week, featuring fully nude lap dances, private theme rooms, and VIP rooms. New Century Theater is the best San Francisco strip club to host your next private event, bachelor party, or bachelorette party! Join us on this thrilling journey of exceptional hospitality and entertainment!"


If you have ANY interest in the history of San Francisco, you should watch the following YouTube video shot in 1955. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnhVcuwPI0U San Francisco (1955 Cinemascope film)]
If you have ANY interest in the history of San Francisco, you should watch the following YouTube video shot in 1955. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnhVcuwPI0U San Francisco (1955 Cinemascope film)]


== Places to remember ==
== Places from the past to remember ==
This is a shortlist of places in San Francisco (mostly closed now) that are of significance to me.
This is a shortlist of places in San Francisco (mostly closed now) that are of significance to me.


* July 5, 1964 - The Arthur Murray Dance Studios - 627 Sutter Street - Arthur Murray was an American dance instructor and businessman, whose name is most often associated with the dance studio chain that bears his name. His pupils included Eleanor Roosevelt, the Duke of Windsor, John D. Rockefeller Jr., Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney, Barbara Hutton, Elizabeth Arden, and Jack Dempsey. Arthur Murray was inducted into the National Museum of Dance's Mr. & Mrs. Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney Hall of Fame in 2007. This was one of several locations in San Francisco. Mr. Murray died in 1991 at the age of 95.  
* July 5, 1964 - '''The Arthur Murray Dance Studios''' - 627 Sutter Street - Arthur Murray was an American dance instructor and businessman, whose name is most often associated with the dance studio chain that bears his name. His pupils included Eleanor Roosevelt, the Duke of Windsor, John D. Rockefeller Jr., Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney, Barbara Hutton, Elizabeth Arden, and Jack Dempsey. Arthur Murray was inducted into the National Museum of Dance's Mr. & Mrs. Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney Hall of Fame in 2007. This was one of several locations in San Francisco. Mr. Murray died in 1991 at the age of 95.  


* Early 1930-late 1960s - "Topsy's Roost" was a nightclub which was located at Ocean Beach. In the late 1960s, it became the rock venue "Family Dog." (I can remember taking dates to this venue while still in the Navy in 1962)
* Early 1930-late 1960s - '''"[[Topsy's Roost]]"''' was a nightclub which was located at Ocean Beach. In the late 1960s, it became the rock venue "Family Dog." (I can remember taking dates to this venue while still in the Navy in 1962)


* 1928-1972 - [[Playland]] (also known as Playland at the Beach and Whitney's Playland beginning in 1928) was a 10-acre seaside amusement park located next to Ocean Beach, at the western edge of San Francisco, California along the Great Highway where Cabrillo and Balboa streets are now. It began as a collection of amusement rides and concessions in the late 1800s and was known as Chutes At The Beach as early as 1913. It closed Labor Day weekend in 1972.
* 1938-1970 - '''[[Forbidden City (San Francisco)]]''' was a Chinese nightclub and cabaret in San Francisco, which was in business from 1938 to 1970, and operated on the second floor of 363 Sutter Street, between Chinatown and Union Square.
 
* 1928-1972 - '''[[Playland]]''' (also known as Playland at the Beach and Whitney's Playland beginning in 1928) was a 10-acre seaside amusement park located next to Ocean Beach, at the western edge of San Francisco, California along the Great Highway where Cabrillo and Balboa streets are now. It began as a collection of amusement rides and concessions in the late 1800s and was known as Chutes At The Beach as early as 1913. It closed Labor Day weekend in 1972.


[[File:HippoBurger.jpg|thumb|right|200px|{{bc|Hippopotamus Hamburger}} ]]
[[File:HippoBurger.jpg|thumb|right|200px|{{bc|Hippopotamus Hamburger}} ]]
* 1950-1987 - Hippopotamus Hamburger (aka "Hippo Burgers") at 2025 Van Ness Avenue. The walls were decorated with cartoons of the happy hippo by the artist and children's book illustrator "Wolo". They had crazy toppings on their burgers like ice cream, stroganoff sauce, hot fudge, a pickle, and cherries, but their basic burgers were amazing, as were the shakes. They finally closed for good in 1987. Many children enjoyed the gift shop with stuffed hippos and other animals. An ordinary chain pharmacy bought the property and occupies the site today.
* 1950-1987 - '''Hippopotamus Hamburger''' (aka "Hippo Burgers") at 2025 Van Ness Avenue. The walls were decorated with cartoons of the happy hippo by the artist and children's book illustrator "Wolo". They had crazy toppings on their burgers like ice cream, stroganoff sauce, hot fudge, a pickle, and cherries, but their basic burgers were amazing, as were the shakes. They finally closed for good in 1987. Many children enjoyed the gift shop with stuffed hippos and other animals. An ordinary chain pharmacy bought the property and occupies the site today.


* 1972-1987 - Lehr's Greenhouse Restaurant - 740 Sutter Street, next to the Canterbury Hotel - This restaurant had an impressive Sunday brunch and was always popular. It was also the scene of many birthday parties and wedding receptions during the era. When Mr. Lehr died, the restaurant closed.  
* 1972-1987 - '''[[Lehr's Greenhouse|Lehr's Greenhouse Restaurant]]''' - 740 Sutter Street, next to the Canterbury Hotel - This restaurant had an impressive Sunday brunch and was always popular. It was also the scene of many birthday parties and wedding receptions during the era. When Mr. Lehr died, the restaurant closed. <ref group="Note">Lehrs restaurant was used as a venue for several BackDrop Open Dinner parties, and I proposed to aRRyana here.</ref>


* 1949-1995 - Zim's Restaurant's last outlet was on Van Ness and Market Street (now a Walgreen's). At its height, there were 19 Zim's and 16 other Zim-managed cafes, including an all-you-can-eat place called Z's Bountiful Buffet. Here are some images that will be sure to evoke fond memories of your favorite Zim's. The interior below was the location at Sutter and Powell Streets in the Holiday Inn (now Marriott) Hotel. We almost forget that smoking was permitted in restaurants at one time. The ashtray is from the 1950s and advertises the location at Market and 10th Street (before it was relocated to Van Ness and Market), Lombard at Steiner, and Corte Madera.
* 1949-1995 - '''Zim's Restaurant's''' last outlet was on Van Ness and Market Street (now a Walgreen's). At its height, there were 19 Zim's and 16 other Zim-managed cafes, including an all-you-can-eat place called Z's Bountiful Buffet. Here are some images that will be sure to evoke fond memories of your favorite Zim's. The interior below was the location at Sutter and Powell Streets in the Holiday Inn (now Marriott) Hotel. We almost forget that smoking was permitted in restaurants at one time. The ashtray is from the 1950s and advertises the location at Market and 10th Street (before it was relocated to Van Ness and Market), Lombard at Steiner, and Corte Madera.


* 1936-1997 - Vanessi's restaurant at Broadway and Kearney
* 1936-1997 - '''[[Vanessi's Restaurant]]''' at Broadway and Kearney


* 1946-2020 - Tarantino's Restaurant - Fisherman's Wharf -permanently closed The menu of fresh seafood, particularly Pacific Salmon, Halibut, and Dungeness Crab, remain popular with both San Franciso locals and tourists. Located in historic Fisherman's Wharf since 1946, Tarantino's remains popular with both locals and tourists visiting our San Francisco even as some of the original heavy pasta dishes have yielded to more delicate fare. Most entree items remain affordable and range from $17 - $27. Our solid reputation for high-quality food and service, presented in a warm and friendly atmosphere, has built up since 1946. Spectacular view of the Bay and Golden Gate
* 1946-2020 - '''Tarantino's Restaurant''' - Fisherman's Wharf -permanently closed The menu of fresh seafood, particularly Pacific Salmon, Halibut, and Dungeness Crab, remain popular with both San Franciso locals and tourists. Located in historic Fisherman's Wharf since 1946, Tarantino's remains popular with both locals and tourists visiting our San Francisco even as some of the original heavy pasta dishes have yielded to more delicate fare. Most entree items remain affordable and range from $17 - $27. Our solid reputation for high-quality food and service, presented in a warm and friendly atmosphere, has built up since 1946. Spectacular view of the Bay and Golden Gate


Tommy's Joynt - Will reopen soon
* '''Tommy's Joynt''' - has reopened http://tommysjoynt.com/


* '''Alioto's Restaurant''' - CLOSED - Seafood - San Francisco, CA - Yelp. Alioto's Restaurant is temporarily closed. Scheduled to reopen on January 1, 2022.


Alioto's Restaurant - CLOSED - Seafood - San Francisco, CA - Yelp. Alioto's Restaurant is temporarily closed. Scheduled to reopen on January 1, 2022.
== Ten San Francisco Restaurants That Should Have Never Been Closed==
: July 20, 2015 by dc1517
San Francisco is considered one of the greatest restaurant towns in the World. It seems that a new trendy restaurant pops up on almost a daily basis.  Thankfully, some of our classic dining establishments like  House of Prime Rib, Swan’s Oyster Depot, Tadich Grill and a handful of others survive and thrive. And others get rescued by “angel investors”- like Joe’s of Westlake (fingers crossed), Tosca Cafe, The Big 4, The Old Clam House and Schroeder’s.  But I sadly salute the passing of some of my all-time personal favorites.
<div style='-moz-column-count:2; column-count:2;'>
* Capp's Corner
* Caesar’s
* Empress of China
* Villa Romana
* Sam Wo
* Vanessi's
* Gold Spike
* Johnson’s Tamale Grotto
* The Shadows
* Paoli's</div>


'''Source article:''' https://aahour.net/2015/07/20/10-san-francisco-restaurants-that-should-have-never-been-closed/comment-page-2/
{{hr}}
: I have, for decades, considered myself a gourmand. I enjoy good food and the ambiance usually present. This article is a good read and it was enjoyable to see how much the author and I have in common. (I have eaten at ALL TEN of these venues!)
== Sources ==
<references group="Source" />
== Notes ==
<references group="Note" />
== External links ==
== External links ==
*[https://sanfrancisco-pictures.blogspot.com/ Pictures of San Francisco sorted by age and street names]
*[https://sanfrancisco-pictures.blogspot.com/ Pictures of San Francisco sorted by age and street names]
* [https://www.facebook.com/LostSanFrancisco/posts Lost San Francisco blog]
* [https://www.facebook.com/LostSanFrancisco/posts Lost San Francisco blog]
{{Footer}}
{{Footer}}
[[Category:SFO History]]
[[Category:SFO History]]

Latest revision as of 04:29, 17 May 2025


Adult venues in San Francisco

  • Secrets Boutique, Adult entertainment store,
1030 Kearny St (415) 391-9246
"Welcome to Secrets Boutique of San Francisco, a sanctuary where patrons can explore and purchase a diverse selection of intimate products in a welcoming environment. Our knowledgeable staff offer discreet guidance, ensuring each shopper feels comfortable and empowered by their choices. Our curated collection caters to diverse preferences and desires, from sensual massage oils to enhancers to innovative bedroom accessories. With a commitment to inclusivity and privacy, we prioritize customer satisfaction, fostering a safe space for exploration and self-expression. Whether seeking solo pleasure or enhancing intimacy with a partner, our shop provides a judgment-free zone where pleasure knows no boundaries."
  • Garden of Eden, Adult entertainment club,
529 Broadway (415) 397-2596 goe-sf.com
"Garden of Eden's adult entertainment offers a fully nude stage experience, private lap dances, and intimate rooms with plenty of VIP booths, and plush seating. If you're looking to host a bachelor or bachelorette party we offer great packages for you and your guests. Download our app, join our mailing list and follow us on social media today for weekly updates and VIP specials including discounted admission!"
  • Palm Beach Arcade, Adult entertainment store
1043 Kearny St (415) 362-5405
  • Romeo and Juliet's, Adult entertainment store,
389 Bay St (415) 391-9349
  • Deja Vu Centerfolds, Adult entertainment club
391 Broadway (415) 834-0662 website
"Deja Vu Centerfolds, located off of Broadway, is an Adult entertainment club in San Francisco. Offering a fully nude strip club experience, food menu, lap-dances, VIP booths, and non-alcoholic bar. Having a bachelor party or a bachelorette party? Wanting a fun memorable night out with your friends? Then come join us and call ahead to make a reservation for a private room or VIP booth today!"
  • The Crazy Horse
980 Market St, (415) 771-6259 [1]
"The World Famous Crazy Horse Gentleman's Club has been serving the Bay Area for over 25 years with the best full nude dancers, exotic, XXX feature entertainers, and today's hottest adult film stars. Party your night away while taking in all the luxurious looks that the famed San Francisco Bay Area has to offer. Our exclusive venue features several top-notch amenities including VIP Rooms, Platinum Rooms, the Owner's Suite, and unprecedented levels of glitz and glamour. There's no better place to celebrate a bachelor party, a birthday, or just a night out on the town! Located near the intersection of Market and 6th Streets in the Mid-Market District of San Francisco. Located near BART and Muni stations and near The Golden Gate Theater."
  • Condor Club, Adult entertainment club,
560 Broadway (415) 781-8222
The Condor Club nightclub is a striptease bar or topless bar in the North Beach section of San Francisco, California The club became famous in 1964 as the first fully topless nightclub in America, featuring the dancer Carol Doda wearing a monokini.
  • EROS a Queer Sex Club, Adult entertainment club
132 Turk St (415) 966-9333 https://erossf.com/
Discover the ultimate LGBTQ club experience at EROS @the Bulldog, where you can unwind or get busy in a safe and inclusive environment.
  • Larry Flynt's Hustler Club,
1031 Kearny St, (415) 434-1301, https://hustlerclubsf.com/
"If you're looking for somewhere to host your next event or bachelor party, you have come to the right place. At Hustler Club San Francisco, we offer topless live adult entertainment in San Francisco by our World Famous Hustler Honeys. Join us for an exclusive VIP bottle service experience any night of the week. Our VIP bottle service includes an unlimited assortment of mixers, garnishes, ice, and stemware. We will ensure that our hottest Hustler Honey will take exceptional care of you and your guests all night."
  • Vanity San Francisco, Adult entertainment club
408 Broadway website
"Vanity is the premier San Francisco nightlife destination with all of the elegance and class you could think of. Vanity offers deluxe amenities including VIP Bottle Service with VIP packages and varying themes to satisfy every indulgence. With 12,000 square feet of space, sensuous ladies on staff, and all the VIP amenities you could dream of. The two-story, 300-500 capacity venue will start with events two nights a week. DJs play open-format house music along with other wild entertainment. Amenities at Vanity will include VIP concierge services, 2 levels of bottle service tables, a massive sound & lighting system, and feature a world-renowned DJ lineup, live performers & concerts, along with eye-catching visuals."
  • Folsom Gulch, Adult entertainment store
947 Folsom St, (415) 495-6402,
"Welcome to Folsom Gulch, a gay sanctuary where patrons can explore and purchase a diverse selection of intimate products in a welcoming environment. Our knowledgeable staff offers discreet guidance, ensuring each shopper feels comfortable and empowered by their choices. From sensual massage oils to enhancers to innovative bedroom accessories, our curated collection caters to diverse preferences and desires. With a commitment to inclusivity and privacy, we prioritize customer satisfaction, fostering a safe space for exploration and self-expression. Whether seeking solo pleasure or enhancing intimacy with a partner, our shop provides a judgment-free zone where pleasure knows no boundaries."
  • Soma Secrets, Adult entertainment store
99 - 6th St, (415) 495-5573
"Welcome to SOMA Secrets, a sanctuary where patrons can explore and purchase a diverse selection of intimate products in a welcoming environment. Our knowledgeable staff offers discreet guidance, ensuring each shopper feels comfortable and empowered by their choices. From sensual massage oils to enhancers to innovative bedroom accessories, our curated collection caters to diverse preferences and desires. With a commitment to inclusivity and privacy, we prioritize customer satisfaction, fostering a safe space for exploration and self-expression. Whether seeking solo pleasure or enhancing intimacy with a partner, our shop provides a judgment-free zone where pleasure knows no boundaries."
  • Power Exchange, Night club
220 Jones St, 415-487-9944 website
"Power Exchange is gritty, wild, and absolutely not for the faint of heart. We’ve been—been there, done that, put on a show (literally). And yes, it can be thrilling if you’re an exhibitionist and find yourself the center of attention with a dozen single dudes watching with bated breath. But let’s be real—it’s seedy as all get out.
"This isn’t your upscale swinger spot with soft lighting and curated cocktails. It's a sex club with dark hallways, voyeur balconies, broom-closet playrooms, and a crowd that’s equal parts horny and unhinged. Staff? Mostly rude. Gave us TSA vibes without the professionalism.
"Still, if you’re in the mood for chaos, kink, and a crowd that really wants to watch? Power Exchange might just scratch that dirty little itch. See our full review on Vanilla Swingers blog."
  • Does Your Mother Know, Adult entertainment store
450 Castro St, (415) 864-3160 website
"The Castro’s largest Adult gifts, novelties, and card store since 1979. Our lube and toy selections will wow you! Be prepared to show ID if you look 25 or younger, or use a credit card. Don’t forget to ask for help, it can sometimes be overwhelming..."
  • Good Vibrations Polk, Adult entertainment store
1620 Polk St, website
  • Mission Secrets, Adult DVD store
2086 Mission St, (415) 626-0309
  • Good Vibrations Valencia, Adult entertainment store
603 Valencia Street (at, 17th St)
  • My Secret Sex Toy Delivery, Adult entertainment store
  • Rock Hard, Adult entertainment store,
518 Castro St, (415) 437-2430
"The Castro’s friendliest store since 1998 selling Adult Gifts, Novelties, and Cards. Locals and tourists alike shop for popular supplements and pop’s. Our large selection of lotions, fetish, and novelties make shopping fun. Be warned, we ID for those looking under 25, and Credit Cards!"
  • Good Vibrations Downtown, Adult entertainment store
899 Mission St, (415) 590-6296 website
  • New Century Theater
816 Larkin St, (415) 776-0212 website

" "The New Century Theater is thrilled to announce that we are now under new management as of July 25th, 2023! Welcome to New Century Theater San Francisco, located on the corner of O'Farrell and Larkin. With a fresh, dynamic team, we're entering an exciting new chapter, upholding our values while aiming for even higher heights. We are a premier nude adult entertainment venue open seven days a week, featuring fully nude lap dances, private theme rooms, and VIP rooms. New Century Theater is the best San Francisco strip club to host your next private event, bachelor party, or bachelorette party! Join us on this thrilling journey of exceptional hospitality and entertainment!"

If you have ANY interest in the history of San Francisco, you should watch the following YouTube video shot in 1955. San Francisco (1955 Cinemascope film)

Places from the past to remember

This is a shortlist of places in San Francisco (mostly closed now) that are of significance to me.

  • July 5, 1964 - The Arthur Murray Dance Studios - 627 Sutter Street - Arthur Murray was an American dance instructor and businessman, whose name is most often associated with the dance studio chain that bears his name. His pupils included Eleanor Roosevelt, the Duke of Windsor, John D. Rockefeller Jr., Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney, Barbara Hutton, Elizabeth Arden, and Jack Dempsey. Arthur Murray was inducted into the National Museum of Dance's Mr. & Mrs. Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney Hall of Fame in 2007. This was one of several locations in San Francisco. Mr. Murray died in 1991 at the age of 95.
  • Early 1930-late 1960s - "Topsy's Roost" was a nightclub which was located at Ocean Beach. In the late 1960s, it became the rock venue "Family Dog." (I can remember taking dates to this venue while still in the Navy in 1962)
  • 1938-1970 - Forbidden City (San Francisco) was a Chinese nightclub and cabaret in San Francisco, which was in business from 1938 to 1970, and operated on the second floor of 363 Sutter Street, between Chinatown and Union Square.
  • 1928-1972 - Playland (also known as Playland at the Beach and Whitney's Playland beginning in 1928) was a 10-acre seaside amusement park located next to Ocean Beach, at the western edge of San Francisco, California along the Great Highway where Cabrillo and Balboa streets are now. It began as a collection of amusement rides and concessions in the late 1800s and was known as Chutes At The Beach as early as 1913. It closed Labor Day weekend in 1972.
Hippopotamus Hamburger
  • 1950-1987 - Hippopotamus Hamburger (aka "Hippo Burgers") at 2025 Van Ness Avenue. The walls were decorated with cartoons of the happy hippo by the artist and children's book illustrator "Wolo". They had crazy toppings on their burgers like ice cream, stroganoff sauce, hot fudge, a pickle, and cherries, but their basic burgers were amazing, as were the shakes. They finally closed for good in 1987. Many children enjoyed the gift shop with stuffed hippos and other animals. An ordinary chain pharmacy bought the property and occupies the site today.
  • 1972-1987 - Lehr's Greenhouse Restaurant - 740 Sutter Street, next to the Canterbury Hotel - This restaurant had an impressive Sunday brunch and was always popular. It was also the scene of many birthday parties and wedding receptions during the era. When Mr. Lehr died, the restaurant closed. [Note 1]
  • 1949-1995 - Zim's Restaurant's last outlet was on Van Ness and Market Street (now a Walgreen's). At its height, there were 19 Zim's and 16 other Zim-managed cafes, including an all-you-can-eat place called Z's Bountiful Buffet. Here are some images that will be sure to evoke fond memories of your favorite Zim's. The interior below was the location at Sutter and Powell Streets in the Holiday Inn (now Marriott) Hotel. We almost forget that smoking was permitted in restaurants at one time. The ashtray is from the 1950s and advertises the location at Market and 10th Street (before it was relocated to Van Ness and Market), Lombard at Steiner, and Corte Madera.
  • 1946-2020 - Tarantino's Restaurant - Fisherman's Wharf -permanently closed The menu of fresh seafood, particularly Pacific Salmon, Halibut, and Dungeness Crab, remain popular with both San Franciso locals and tourists. Located in historic Fisherman's Wharf since 1946, Tarantino's remains popular with both locals and tourists visiting our San Francisco even as some of the original heavy pasta dishes have yielded to more delicate fare. Most entree items remain affordable and range from $17 - $27. Our solid reputation for high-quality food and service, presented in a warm and friendly atmosphere, has built up since 1946. Spectacular view of the Bay and Golden Gate
  • Alioto's Restaurant - CLOSED - Seafood - San Francisco, CA - Yelp. Alioto's Restaurant is temporarily closed. Scheduled to reopen on January 1, 2022.

Ten San Francisco Restaurants That Should Have Never Been Closed

July 20, 2015 by dc1517

San Francisco is considered one of the greatest restaurant towns in the World. It seems that a new trendy restaurant pops up on almost a daily basis. Thankfully, some of our classic dining establishments like House of Prime Rib, Swan’s Oyster Depot, Tadich Grill and a handful of others survive and thrive. And others get rescued by “angel investors”- like Joe’s of Westlake (fingers crossed), Tosca Cafe, The Big 4, The Old Clam House and Schroeder’s. But I sadly salute the passing of some of my all-time personal favorites.

  • Capp's Corner
  • Caesar’s
  • Empress of China
  • Villa Romana
  • Sam Wo
  • Vanessi's
  • Gold Spike
  • Johnson’s Tamale Grotto
  • The Shadows
  • Paoli's

Source article: https://aahour.net/2015/07/20/10-san-francisco-restaurants-that-should-have-never-been-closed/comment-page-2/

I have, for decades, considered myself a gourmand. I enjoy good food and the ambiance usually present. This article is a good read and it was enjoyable to see how much the author and I have in common. (I have eaten at ALL TEN of these venues!)

Sources


Notes

  1. ↑ Lehrs restaurant was used as a venue for several BackDrop Open Dinner parties, and I proposed to aRRyana here.

External links

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