If you’ve lived in the Richmond District for more than five minutes, you know that Arguello Market is basically a local landmark. Located at 782 Arguello Blvd, right near the corner of Cabrillo Street, this is the quintessential San Francisco corner store that’s been holding it down since 1959. It’s the kind of place that smells like roasting meat the second you hop off the 31-Balboa bus, and it’s a total lifesaver for those of us in the 94118 who want high-quality food without the fancy "boutique" price tag.
The absolute superstar of this market is the Turkey Sandwich. People fly into SFO and head straight here for it. It’s not your average deli turkey; they roast whole turkeys right there in the store every single day. The "Arguello Special" comes with thick, hand-carved slices of warm turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce on a sourdough roll—it’s basically Thanksgiving in a bag. If you’re heading over to Golden Gate Park for a picnic or just need a massive lunch that’ll keep you full until tomorrow, this is the only stop you need to make.
What really distinguishes Arguello Market is how it manages to be a top-tier deli and a reliable neighborhood grocery store at the same time. While the sandwich line can get long, the rest of the store is packed with gems. They have a great selection of local craft beers, a surprisingly solid wine aisle, and those "forgot-one-thing" essentials like fresh produce and high-end cheeses. It’s unpretentious and old-school, with wooden shelves and a staff that moves with that classic San Francisco hustle while still being genuinely friendly.
The vibe here is pure neighborhood soul. You’ll see everyone from USF students and Presidio hikers to families who have been shopping here for three generations. It’s clean, well-stocked, and feels like a real part of the community rather than just another shop. Whether you’re grabbing a rotisserie chicken for an easy weeknight dinner or waiting in that legendary sandwich line on a sunny Saturday, Arguello Market is a reliable, high-quality anchor of the Inner Richmond that makes living in the city feel a lot more like home.
Business Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Pro Tip: The turkey is roasted fresh daily, but it can sell out during the lunch rush, so try to get there before 2:00 PM to guarantee a warm sandwich!
