5 Nob Hill Bookstores We Love

Looking for some great bookstores in Nob Hill? We’ve got you covered with our 5 favorites.

1. Russian Hill Bookstore

2162 Polk St

This rustic shop is known for their helpful, enthusiastic staff and great selection. They will be happy to give you recommendations and help you find exactly what you’re looking for. There are places to sit and read and plenty of books, comics, games, cards, gifts and vinyl/sheet music. If you’re looking for everything from 1563 to 2019, this is the place for you! It's a local favorite.

2. Argonaut Book Shop

786 Sutter St

If you’re looking for a purely vintage bookstore, this is the place for you. They have some rich history within their walls and great views out their windows! Multiple floors of expertly organized and curated bookshelves. It’s very well decorated and there is a Banksy across the street! It’s run by knowledgeable staff and is a great place to go to if you want the in on Bay Area history and local authors. It's antique bookstore heaven!

3. City Lights Booksellers and Publishers

261 Columbus Ave

A beat era-inspired three-floor bookstore with a whole floor dedicated to poetry, City Lights is a small, quiet haven for readers. It’s been alive and kicking in this beautiful area of SF since the 1950’s. Owner Lawrence Ferlinghetti, who celebrated his 100th birthday just recently, was arrested back in the day for publishing and selling work by Allen Ginsberg! A true literary cultural revolutionary, and the space reflects that. A must visit!

4. Book Passage

Ferry Building, One, #42

Often mistaken for a Wes Anderson film set, this cute independent bookstore is off-beat in the best way. You’ll be simply taken by its charm and character, and their helpful and authentic staff will help you through their selection of fun and unique cards, gifts and books. Book Passage is a great place to get to know local authors, and be sure not to miss their sweet author events!

5. Alexander Book Company

50 2nd St

Fashioned with its own in-house coffee shop, Alexander Book Company is a lovely place to browse and meet locals! Three floors of great selection comes along with a wonderful, helpful staff that are ready to order whatever you want for you and are knowledgeable and efficient. They have used books, new books, unique gifts, and a bargain bin outside. They also have a frequent buyer program that helps us bookworms get a free book after every 10 purchases. You could browse all day and be engaged and entertained!