Aquarius Records
Record store in the Mission. Small, but wow. Above all, for experimental music. More than competent staff, and a nice, personal atmosphere. Most of the CDs have a review by the staff pasted on the outside. Really cool. 1055 Valencia Street.
Amoeba Music
Giant record store that has everything. Really cool. The walls are covered with old (and really good) concert posters. Paradise. 1855 Haight Street.
Recycled Records
Record store for blues, jazz and 60s rock. Great, hand picked selection. 1377 Haight Street.
City Lights Books
A classic! I went there almost every night after work. 261 Columbus Avenue.
William Stout Architectural Books
Best architecture bookstore ever! Right after swissnex. 804 Montgomery Street.
Shoe Biz
Two stores on Haight. Sneakers. Very nice.
Sara @ Blo Salon
Hair dresser. Super! 60 dollars, including tip. 500 Laguna Street