Stonestown - San Francisco, CA

Stonestown was constructed between 1949 and 1952, as a planned community offering affordable housing and a convenient shopping center. It was the nation’s fourth largest apartment complex & shopping center.

The area stayed much the same until the 1980s, when architect John Field designed the Stonestown Galleria, adding a second level of stores, atrium and marble floors. In 1987, the Galleria opened its doors, and the neighborhood is still organized around its offerings.

Though many of the business have changed over the years, the neighborhood has stayed much the same when it comes to culture.

San Francisco State’s Theatre Arts Department puts on shows from time to time.

Though there’s no central restaurant location in Stonestown, many eateries are in or around the Stonestown Galleria, and there are many food choices to availabe. Some chain restaurants sprinkle the area such as Olive Garden. Also, vegan, Mexican, American, Italian and sushi are some of the more popular options in this neighborhood.

Happy Dumplings, another neighborhood gem, provides pan-fried dumplings with serious fillings, including pork with cabbage, shrimp with egg, and chicken with cilantro. Locals love the intense flavors of these dumplings, as well as their portability if you’re driving or taking public transportation. Try a green tea with your lunch or dinner.

Meanwhile, the Great Steak & Fry Company does Philly cheesesteaks and grilled sandwiches right, along with a variety of fry and potato options that have locals clamoring for more. Perfect for those colder, rainy days in San Francisco, when hearty fare is almost required.

Stonestown doesn’t have any live music venues, but locals get their need for entertainment met through movies at the UA Stonestown Twin. There are no clubs in the area, either. The bar scene is confined to neighboring areas, if you’re willing to travel a bit.

Overall, the nightlife is quiet, since this is a residential area is designed to keep the frantic pace of the city out.

Though Stonestown is a little more forgiving when it comes to driving and parking, it’s still San Francisco, so it’s not going to be easy. The parking you find will certainly be cheaper than in a more central location, but locals still prefer to use public transportation.

The Daly City BART station is relatively close, and there are many Muni bus routes throughout this neighborhood. Cabs are usually easy to hail, or an Uber pickup can be arranged.

The 280 is just south of Stonestown, so it’s a freeway accessible area. The neighborhood is also very walkable as it was originally laid out to offer all the perks of suburban life while remaining close to the city’s art and culture.

There are many bike lanes in Stonestown and, since the terrain is flat, it’s very easy and safe for cyclists.

Surprisingly, Stonestown doesn’t have any public parks or community gardens. Instead, residents get their fitness needs met at City Sports Club, the YMCA, Village Fitness Center at SFSU or The Dailey Method classes.

Rolph Nicol Jr. Playground near Lowell high school appeals to dog lovers and families with small children. Featuring three acres of green space, this area provides residents with pleasant view of beautiful eucalyptus trees and well-groomed landscape.

There are no dog parks in this area,although they are available in some of the neighboring communities. Movie lovers are advised to head to the Galleria for new releases and concessions galore.

A typical one bedroom apartment in Stonestown rents for about $2,500 per month. The cost of living is lower than that of the city as a whole and, because of this, the cost of food and entertainment is lower as a result. This area definitely offers more bang for your buck than other parts of the city. It costs around $3 to $4 to get to the city center on public transportation, and the price of a beer in a local pub will run you about $5. Gas prices are about 15 percent higher in this area than the national average.

Most of Stonestown’s shopping is centered around its large mall, the Galleria. Chain stores such as Nordstrom, Forever 21, H&M and Macy’s are popular shopping destinations for locals, as are smaller boutiques, including Divano Home, a one-stop shop for home decorating and furniture needs. Given the neighborhood's goal of catering to families on a budget, there are only a few higher-end department stores for luxury shopping.

The neighborhood has many choices when it comes to groceries, including chain stores such Trader Joe’s, and small grocers such as Nago Foods and Grandpa Kevin’s Pumpkin Patch.

The Stonestown Farmers Market happens on Sundays in the parking lot of the Stonestown Galleria. From seasonal fruits and vegetables to food from various trucks and vendors and fresh squeezed juices and smoothies, there’s something for everyone here.