St. Francisco Fountain, an Old Time Soda Shop

I love living in San Francisco. I couldn't imagine living anywhere else. But, even though I've been here for six years, I don't get out much. Without a car, I basically stay within a square mile of my apartment. I tell myself that I should get out more, but I never do. I even have a list of things I want to do. Chalk it up to laziness, because I really don't have another valid excuse. Well tonight I changed a bit of that. I visited a place on my list.

About a year ago, I was walking the streets near the Mission one early morning, when I discovered something my friends already knew. It was an old time dinner/soda fountain. I was quite excited, and told myself that I would come back when they were open. I finally made it. I made arrangements with these same friends to have late lunch there today. I wasn't disappointed.

The St. Francis Fountain has been in continuous operation since opening in 1918. It has changed a bit, but is still reminiscent of the soda fountains of the 40s and 50s. They have an expanded menu that has a lot of options, mostly breakfast foods. I had the "Nebulous Potato Things" with bacon that was quite delicious and quite filling. I also got to experience my first chocolate soda. This experience was a long time coming. I had always seen people order these on classic movies and television programs, usually being teenagers in soda fountains. I wondered what they tasted like, figuring that they had to be yummy since it was a common thing in these moving images. Since I have not been a teenager in a couple of decades, I figured it was about time I tried one. So, I ordered one. I sucked it down very quickly. It was an interesting flavor. It had, what you might expect, the taste of chocolate syrup with the sparkling sensation of soda. I am not sure I will order another one, but at least I was finally able to try it. 

If you the opportunity to visit this fair city, please take the time to have at least one meal or dessert at the St. Francis Fountain.



















st francis fountain, soda shop, vintage, phone booth,

















7 comments:

  1. I love the phone...even though I was born early early 50's I was a 60's teen. I think the 50's were more stylish and items were made better.

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  2. What a PERFECT place!!!! I wish Soda Fountains could become a big thing again, I'd spend all my time there :D

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    1. Me too! I also wish I would have gone to the drive in A&W that was near my high school, but now it is a closed.

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  3. Hello!
    I just found your blog and subscribed. I love it, the 1950s articles and posts are great. The 50s is my favorite era. Nice soda fountain.
    By the way, I was reading about your issues with the insomniac neighbor, jeez, I have had my share of issues in apts. Usually loud music. It really is annoying, and sometimes you can't just pack up and move. Has this lady tried Ambien or something similar? Maybe if the floor was carpeted that would help too. Older apts. don't have the best soundproofing, but they are so nice, as yours is. I hope there is something that will help you find some peace and quiet.

    April

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    1. Thanks! I have tried to suggest rugs and have given her some herbal sleep meds. I also got shooting range ear muffs that I wear with my ear plugs. Together they muffle enough noise to help me relax. She is getting better, though.

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  4. If I haven't told you this before, it's high time I do, I absolutely, positively adore everything you wear. This dress is so sweet, feminine and pretty - just the perfect thing for a special outing like that (I can completely relate; we lived in Toronto for six years and didn't have a car, so I really didn't get to see as much of the city as I would have lived to).

    ♥ Jessica

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