The once-bustling heart of Union Square in San Francisco is witnessing a notable resurgence in its retail and community atmosphere, nearly six years after a family from London, led by Michelle O’Connor, first explored the area.
Since then, O’Connor has relocated her family and opened a fourth location of her toy store, Just for Fun, in the space formerly occupied by Jeffrey’s Toys, a well-regarded establishment that shuttered in January 2024 due to declining conditions.
Reflecting on the area’s transformation, O’Connor stated, “There’s definitely a vibe shift happening…it’s looking up, and we wanted to be part of that story.”
Historically, Maiden Lane presented a vibrant mix of art galleries and luxury boutiques vibrant with life. It attracted both locals and visitors alike, featuring charming bistro seating arranged amid elegant surroundings.
However, the aftermath of the pandemic dramatically altered the landscape, revealing a grim reality characterized by unsightly conditions and a significant drop in foot traffic.
Describing the once-vibrant lane, many noted a “Gotham City” atmosphere, marked by litter and signs of urban decay.
Contrasting this past, the current scene on Maiden Lane tells a far more uplifting story. Thanks in part to efforts from the nonprofit Union Square Alliance, the lane is being revitalized with music filling the air and cleanliness becoming the norm once again.
New establishments have begun to trickle back into the area, including Clicky Bezel and Chien & Buffle, which opened soon after O’Connor’s store. Joining them are other new entrants like John Varvatos, while anticipated openings from Camera West and Steelcase promise to further enhance the mix of offerings in the corridor.
Real estate expert Jeremy Blatteis has noted, “We’ve felt quite a bit of a resurgence in interest in Maiden Lane lately,” indicating that more businesses are exploring vacancies after years of stagnation and isolation.
As an illustrative example, hair salon owner Blake McCall shared his own experience regarding the improved atmosphere: “It was dead for a while, but the energy is finally getting better.”
For McCall, this year has marked the highest level of new business he has encountered in years, leading to a hopeful outlook for continued growth in the area.
Blake’s sentiments are echoed by Chris Tran, co-owner of Clicky Bezel, who expressed a desire for longer lease terms due to the early success they have experienced.
“We’re seeing huge movement within Union Square in the next three years,” he remarked, reflecting a burgeoning optimism for local businesses.
Long-time business owners like Kevin Hershey of Spectacles, who has been part of the Maiden Lane community since 1972, are also looking forward to a revitalized future. “I can’t wait to see what the next 20 years brings,” Hershey stated.
Meanwhile, office spaces above the storefronts are also beginning to fill up, with the recent arrival of AI companies bringing fresh energy and conversation to the area.
Jevan Lenox, chief people officer at Writer, an enterprise AI platform, lauded the unique charm of Maiden Lane and its pedestrian-friendly environment, suggesting that the character of the street could foster community and creativity among occupying businesses.
Avison Young broker Colton Hanley has been instrumental in signing on several AI companies and noted that the area’s reputation has shifted positively after years of decline. “People see that the streets are cleaned up now, and it’s a much friendlier environment,” he said, pointing to the competitive leasing rates in comparison to more expensive neighborhoods.
The excitement surrounding this resurgence is palpable, and many hope for an influx of cafes and restaurants that could help cultivate a sense of community and pedestrian activity.
At Ironhorse, a classic saloon dating back to the 1950s, the atmosphere is lively, with a full house bolstered by an increase in corporate bookings and bar tabs. “It’s a lot busier here now than last August and September,” the bartender noted, reflecting the positivity of recent developments.
With each new lease signed and each business opened, the narrative of Maiden Lane is shifting from one of decline to a burgeoning community of diverse stores and collaborative spaces, fulfilling the potential once envisioned for the corner of Union Square.
As the transformation unfolds, it promises to breathe new life into not just Maiden Lane, but the entirety of Union Square, as businesses, consumers, and office workers alike contribute to a reinvigorated cultural and commercial landscape.
image source from：sfstandard
