Embarcadero Center

Embarcadero Center is a multi-block office and retail complex in the Financial District of San Francisco, California, close to the Ferry Building and the foot of Market Street. Designed in the 1970s, the complex comprises several towers whose lower levels are joined by elevated walkways and podium-level plazas, with shops and restaurants arranged along the pedestrian routes. The mix is mid-priced and mainstream, including national clothing chains, shoe and accessory stores, cosmetics shops, a cinema, a fitness club and a range of cafes and restaurants. It is a practical shopping stop rather than a destination for local craft, so authentic local goods are limited, and tourist trinkets are few. Prices are moderate, bargaining does not apply and cards are accepted everywhere. California sales tax is added at the register, and there is no general tax refund for visitors. The complex serves the daily workforce, so the atmosphere is businesslike on weekdays, with a lunchtime rush, and quieter on weekends when some tenants keep shorter hours. Eating options are plentiful, ranging from fast casual counters and food court style outlets to full-service restaurants with outdoor seating on the plazas. An outdoor farmers market and seasonal events are held at the Justin Herman Plaza area nearby, and the Ferry Building is a short walk away. Public art is displayed on the plazas, and the Embarcadero BART and Muni station sits at the base of the complex, making it easy to reach. In the winter holiday season the complex is decorated and an outdoor ice rink traditionally operates near the plaza. Visitors often use it as a covered, convenient place to shop for basics, grab lunch and walk onward to the waterfront.