1. On Waverly

    1. On Waverly

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    San Francisco, CA

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    On Waverly

    5.0 (40 reviews)
    Closed 11:00 am - 6:00 pm

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    Looks so familiar
    Juan V.

    San Francisco's Chinatown has many great places to go shopping. There is an alley which has lots of San Francisco history in Chinatown . Waverly Place has many good places to drink and shop. In October there is a Halloween celebration on Waverly Place called the Chinatown Halloween Festival which has lots entertainment and vendors. One store which stands out for its unique items is on Waverly Place is called On Waverly. On an Autumn stroll on a San Francisco Summer there I attended the Chinatown Halloween Festival and ended up inside On Waverly. I have been here a few times before but now they have so many different items and novelties on display. They have lots of good books from a different POV and perspectives of Asian American and Pacific Islanders. There also have events were authors speak in person about their book. This one of my favorite bookstores in San Francisco. Come grab some food that is "delicious " and full of chef kiss" dishes "on Waverly place most of it's "nutritious" and pick up a book On Waverly that non-Fiction or another that's "fictitious" Come to Waverly place a place that's "monumental" its between the streets of Washington and "Sacramento " and enjoying the oldest and biggest Chinatown North America its "fundamental " then go inside On Waverly and buy a "momento"

    Not too sweet
    Kathleen S.

    This place is a must stop for me when in Chinatown. Such an expertly curated gift shop and it's so amazing to see a gift store that tailors to so many things asian. Bok choy and boba keychains (yes they're as adorable as you would expect) and pineapple bun pins and earrings say what? Also it's such a fun time looking through their sticker collection. So much cute and funny art! Check out the Aiya sticker. You can also find greetings cards here as well as a food section that sells things like chili oil, black sesame butter and tea. Definitely some unique finds you can't find everywhere and would make for a fun gift for a friend or yourself! The book selection also seems very on point. It's so amazing to look at the book wall and see the plethora of AAPI authors and their beautiful books. Prices skew a little on the higher end so you can easily do some major damage here but then there are some lower ticket items so there's something that can be found for everyone. Check out their website for author book signings and other hosted events. I just subscribed to their e-mail list to hear about their in shop events.

    Love this Chinese phrase magnets
    Mitzi W.

    The cutest gift store in SF Chinatown with locally made Asian items. Ornaments. Books. Food items. Cards. This small business is a gem. Kudos to the ladies who opened this store.

    4/14/25
    Mike C.

    When I saw there was a book signing here, I wished that my schedule would allow me to attend but it wasn't meant to be. This would make a great gift for my friend's upcoming birthday. Was I tempted to go online and click that company that starts with an "A"? A little... then my conscience took over. Being in Chinatown and running errands, I walked in and a young lady helped me find a copy (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=24&select=ejb6syQEvLYtGjWXLPPXrQ). Perfect! As I paid, the kind gal offered to gift wrap it for me or wrap it in tissue paper and I told her it would not be necessary as I was combining it with another item as her gift. Big thanks to Madison and Ava in helping me satisfy my shopping list and very nice meeting you. In speaking with them, I shared my history of growing up in the neighborhood and congratulated them on opening a new business here. I need to find some time to browse more when I have time and am in the area. I'm sure there are other great gift items here. Support local!

    Colleen L.

    This store feels like a trip down memory lane, filled with nostalgia. From books and pins to stickers and adorable stationery, every item is thoughtfully influenced by Asian culture. I especially loved seeing stickers with phrases my parents and grandparents used to say--it was such a heartfelt reminder of my childhood. I picked up a few books for my nieces, it was tough to limit myself because everything is so cute here. If you're looking for a stationery store that screams nostalgia and celebrates cultural traditions, this is definitely a place worth visiting when you're in the City.

    Chili oils and butter spreads
    Grace L.

    The cutest gift shop filled with all kinds of creative and relatable AAPI goodies! After browsing through the adorable stickers, pins, magnets, and more, I feel seen, and I'm reminded of my childhood and always tempted to buy everything. It's cool to see work from local artists whom I've seen at other makers markets in this shop, like prints from Felicia Liang and Evil Mizu. I've bought a magnet of Chinese bakery treats and a 500 piece dim sum puzzle from I'll Know It When I See It. This brand's hot pot, Asian snacks, and mahjong puzzles also make great gifts! Amongst all the touristy souvenir shops in Chinatown, On Waverly stands out as a must visit!

    Jennifer C. L.

    I fell in love with this place the second I walked in. The place is filled with joyous books for all ages. I personally fell in love with the childrens book section as you enter to the right. The wall is filled from tip to tip of books filled with Asian American culture, ficitonal tales of livelihood, enriching stories of our history's past, and more. I found it nearly impossible to tear myself away from this section of the store, completely absorbed by the vibrant stories unfolding before me as I explored one captivating book after another. I adored how the rest of the store was brimming with charming treasures like stickers, ornaments, plushies, and original art! There are very unique pieces filled throughout the store including even beautiful jewelry! This place seems like a hidden gem tucked deeply in the middle of San Francisco's Chinatown. It was incredible to discover that many of the books had been signed during in-store author events, with these autographed copies available for purchase right on the shelves. What a glorious place to get lost and dive deep into the stories told within the books whlle getting a chance to play with the shiny little things that highlight the isles of the store. There are books for all ages including cookbooks and literary pieces for adults as well. I think I can spend a whole week in here just exploring the texts alone. So much fun filled in every corner.

    Jewelry
    Rose N.

    Omg this store is so cute. It has a lot of carefully curated items. Every item is beautiful. I love the children's books, the scarves, t shirts and jewelry selections. A good place to buy gifts for friends, family, or yourself. Also, there's a great list of local Chinatown places at the counter.

    Horsiiieeee
    Bri W.

    From cute historic and children's books to beautiful cards to cool stickers and hilarious keychains, On Waverly is my go-to spot for Asian-themed gifts. I first discovered this local small business in 2025 while exploring Chinatown with a close friend. She picked up the cookie-inspired clips and boba stuffies while I purchased the rice cooker pin. Since then I've found a really cool card with a fierce-looking dragon on it, keychains that embody the essence of street slang, and the "dim sum" kids book along with a children's book that encourages us to embrace our differences and see our commonalities. The dolls are all so beautiful as well. Complimentary gift wrapping is available with a purchase. I see the value in supporting these Asian artists and authors. Corporations make so much profit based on mass production and can offer lower prices however I feel like my heritage and culture is heard at On Waverly whereas in mainstream production, it doesn't seem like Asian represention matters as much. These artists and authors seem to be growing their businesses and I'm happy to support a fellow Asian with my purchases from On Waverly to help them follow their dreams. Value is in the eye of the beholder. Everything I've purchased is valuable to me. Yes, I paid a "pretty penny" for these gifts but it's worth it to me and such a pleasure dropping by to see the latest Asian-themed and Asian-created inventory. I absolutely love the vibes at On Waverly. So welcoming and friendly. Can't wait to return!

    Joeydolls
    Monica C.

    I love to stop by this heartwarming store whenever I'm in the area. The first time I went in, I bought so many things I got a free tote bag. There's so much care put into displaying and selecting AAPI merchandise. There's an awesome variety of books for adults and children's books (including board books and many of the picture books are autographed). They also carry foodie themed baby, toddler, and child clothing. If you're looking for dolls, they carry both Jilly Bing and Joeydolls! The greeting cards are so cute. The employee behind the counter was so friendly and even gifted my little one a cute kitty boba plushie. It's a great place to buy gifts. Looking forward to my next visit!

    Michelle R.

    Cute shop located in Chinatown. We stopped by real quick. This place has AAPI merchandise such as books for both adults and kids, cookbooks, pins, stickers, clothes, and etc. Will have to come back here again.

    Montage of images from On Waverly
    Ed U.

    Sisters Cynthia and Jennifer Huie are not only doin' it for themselves but more importantly, the local AAPI community. On the next block of Waverly Place from Mister Jiu's is their inviting corner shop in which they sell quite an array of books, gifts and souvenirs in a bright, youthful setting. A smattering of red chairs indicates room has been allocated for a community space for events like Asian American author signings. The overriding vibe of the merchandise here is an intergenerational energy that ties Chinese traditions to modern interpretations. It's a fun, atypical place to peruse and shop. RELATED - Exploring Chinatown? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2WoF1Z2

    Sharon H.

    I absolutely loved the concept of the store, and the space. It's open, inviting, modern space with various stickers, trinkets, books, and gifts made by AAPI community members. We bought a few stickers that were funny with Asian/Chinese themes to them. I loved both the adult and children book section, which had tons of books by AAPI authors that both I and my children have enjoyed over the years. Seems they also hold events with book signings.readings etc.

    This is the only place that sells this historic cookbook full of recipes from some Chinatown businesses of yore

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    I've never been more obsessed with a gift shop than I am with this one. I wanted to buy everything in this store. So many Asian-core items!

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    2 months ago

    Love the gift and book selection and appreciate their community workshops and author discussions!

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    Ask the Community - On Waverly

    Review Highlights - On Waverly

    It's open, inviting, modern space with various stickers, trinkets, books, and gifts made by AAPI community members.

    Mentioned in 3 reviews

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    Beautiful Japanese Garden with winding paths, Buddha, Koi Fish, and a tea shop…read more... It truly was relaxing and transported me to another place. Loved seeing the plants and trees native to Japan. Will definitely return. So beautiful and relaxing!

    Mixed feeling about this beloved garden, nothing like it once was…read more The best experience lives within the beautiful, very much authentic Japanese tea house, run by Japanese staff, who are friendly and professional. But it does get super busy, and hard to find a seat. There's no high chair for babies. Understandably so, but it is hard for mothers, be aware. The hojicha comes in a traditional (restaurant style) mug, burning hot, but satisfying. The matcha service comes with small wagashi (Japanese dessert). The noodle udon was hopeless. The view to the water and garden is spectacular. Not dampened by the constant crowd rushing through the gate. There are still quite a few photo genetic spots and features: the beautiful tall bridge (oil painting like), bronze buddha, the architecture of the gift shop (bathroom close by), and the pogoda, and the chubby koi fish. But water is poorly maintained, had weird bubbles and looking stagnant. Leaves are not swept up / cleaned - being messy is not being zen. Overall, I can totally see why it is popular, but it is nothing like what it used to be. Book ahead, book online, residents of SF need to show up early to claim the free tickets. It gets "sold out" (rolling my eyes). Recommend coming here on a weekday, not on weekends, unless you are from out of town. Recommend book ahead of time. Recommend packing light. It is impossible to park here for free. It takes skills and can raise conflicts. Paid parking is super expensive. Worth a visit on a not-so-busy day. Because of the popularity of the garden, hourly tickets (even free residents' ones) get sold out, requires buying the next hour, and lining up. It's very hard to line up as someone who needs accessibility. For example, if a person has a stroller, with a little baby, there's very little empathy from staff, they will separate your family by asking another person in the group to line up (beyond steps), while the stroller person waits on the platform. I would say at least one of the staff is not courteous at all. He was rude and demanding, and not empathetic of visitors who travel with family, from afar, or needing accessibility help. The line was poorly managed.

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    This "museum" acts as the information center and gift shop for the "F" line. The "F" line are the…read morehistoric streetcars that run down Market St and the Embarcadero to Fisherman's Wharf. These street cars are the star of the attraction and definitely worth the ride. For $5.70 one can buy an all-day Muni pass which allows you to ride these cars along with all other transit EXCEPT the cable cars. These cars are a collection of preserved vehicles from the '30s to '50s. Each one was given from a city in the US. They were originally brought to San Francisco to substitute for the cable cars when the c.c. Went under major renovation back in the '80s. The street cars became a hit with locals and tourists and are now a part of historic transit systems in San Francisco. The museum is small but detailed. It is open limited hours and run by a team of volunteers. They are passionate about these street cars and it shows. They are very detailed oriented but expect a pause every 10 minutes when a street car goes rolling by. The museum is free with a suggested $5 donation. It will only take about 30 minutes to cover it but a great stop if a rail fan.

    I love this place. I never thought about reviewing it lol bc it's always just a place we stop into…read moreon walks around this area. It's a nice place to just come and walk around. I'm not sure about parking bc we only come here on foot when we're doing what I call "urban hiking"... we like to hike our own city on lazy days. This is on one of our routes. It's got very clean restrooms and a cute gift shop. I think I I just like it bc we're used to coming through here and it smells good lol like, it's got its own unique scent and vibe. I'd recommend stopping by if you're a local. If you're a tourist and you are interested in this type of thing, for sure. It's a pretty educational and cool little spot.

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    4.3(125 reviews)
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    This is a well preserved California Mission, one of the 21 along the El Camino Real. Today it…read morestands as a reminder of a time in California history when Spain ruled the area. This mission held its first mass just one week before the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Today all that remains is the chapel, a couple of small rooms attached and a portion of the cemetery. The majority of the complex is long gone, buried beneath the city that built up around it. The chapel has been restored and could be used today. The alters, wooden pews and decor resemble what this church may have looked like in its prime over 200 years ago. Today it sits in the shadows of the Basillica. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for kids and seniors. The site can be easily toured in under an hour. However, to get the full story one may want to spend some more time.

    Beautiful Mission. We drove through the San Louis Obispo area and hit up a lot of those missions so…read morewe decided we should see our local mission. If you're following google maps, make sure you put in the actual Mission and not just Mission Dolores because it will take you to the high school or park. We followed the gps and ended up at the beautiful high school. We also walked along the park. The park is large and lush and attracted lots of people on this beautiful Sunday afternoon. Parking for the mission is challenging. There is lots of street parking, but everyone is parked and we didn't see anyone leaving. We did find Sunday Church Parking. I believe it said tow away zone except between 8:30 and 4:30 on a Sunday. It was a smidge after 4:30 and a space opened up and we took it. Thankfully we didn't get a ticket, but I did see 2 meter maids coming though when we left. The mission is beautiful. I wish we had come earlier so we could have taken a tour.

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    I've been coming to the Exploratorium since I was in elementary school 40 years ago, and after all…read morethese years, I can honestly say that my love for this place has only grown deeper. I'm now a STEAM instructor myself, and I still feel the same sense of wonder every time I walk through the doors. The Exploratorium understands something incredibly important: science isn't just a collection of facts to memorize. It's something to touch, hear, build, question, experiment with, and experience. What I admire most is the institution's mission to make science tangible, accessible, and genuinely fun. The exhibits invite curiosity instead of demanding expertise, which makes them just as engaging for adults as they are for children. Every visit reminds me that science belongs to everyone. As someone who teaches kids for a living, I know how difficult it is to create experiences that are both educational and exciting. The Exploratorium has been doing exactly that for decades, and they continue to set the standard. Their educators, exhibit designers, and staff have created something truly special. San Francisco is full of iconic landmarks, but for me, the Exploratorium will always be one of the city's greatest treasures. It played a role in shaping the person I became, and I have no doubt it will continue inspiring generations of curious minds. I was a science-loving kid when I first walked in, and, thankfully, I'm still a science-loving kid now.

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