Fodor's Expert Review Ghirardelli Square
Most of the redbrick buildings in this complex were once part of the Ghirardelli factory, which the prominent chocolate company purchased in 1893. Tourists visit to pick up the famous chocolate and indulge in ice cream sundaes at this dessert paradise, though you can purchase the chocolates all over town and save yourself a trip to what is essentially a glamorized mall food court (Ghirardelli's factory is now in the East Bay). But it's still a must-visit destination for chocolate lovers. Placards throughout the square describe the factory's history, and the giant Ghirardelli sign above the square, erected in 1923, remains one of the city's visual icons.
Once you're tired of chocolate, there are a few notable restaurants within the square. Palette Tea House serves some of the city's most artistic dim sum, Square Pie Guys has the Bay Area's gold standard for Detroit-style square pizza, Barrio offers enjoyable tacos and margaritas, and there's a great beer garden setting at the San... READ MORE
Most of the redbrick buildings in this complex were once part of the Ghirardelli factory, which the prominent chocolate company purchased in 1893. Tourists visit to pick up the famous chocolate and indulge in ice cream sundaes at this dessert paradise, though you can purchase the chocolates all over town and save yourself a trip to what is essentially a glamorized mall food court (Ghirardelli's factory is now in the East Bay). But it's still a must-visit destination for chocolate lovers. Placards throughout the square describe the factory's history, and the giant Ghirardelli sign above the square, erected in 1923, remains one of the city's visual icons.
Once you're tired of chocolate, there are a few notable restaurants within the square. Palette Tea House serves some of the city's most artistic dim sum, Square Pie Guys has the Bay Area's gold standard for Detroit-style square pizza, Barrio offers enjoyable tacos and margaritas, and there's a great beer garden setting at the San Francisco Brewing Co.
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