Welcome to Ghirardelli Square, a place of immense cultural and historical significance. Nestled in San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood lies this iconic destination – full of rich history and fascinating stories. In particular, Lot #347 is one such tale that has captivated locals and tourists alike for decades. This lot was once home to the famous Domingo Ghirardelli chocolate factory, which played an essential role in shaping the city’s culinary landscape. Today we invite you on a journey to explore the intriguing past of Ghirardelli Square- from its humble beginnings to its present-day glory as a vibrant hub for food, shopping, and entertainment. So fasten your seatbelts as we embark on this exciting adventure together!
History of Ghirardelli Square
Ghirardelli Square is one of the most iconic and historic squares in San Francisco. The square was originally named after Italian immigrant Pietro Ghirardelli, who established a chocolate factory in 1849. The square soon became known for its artisan chocolates, and it remains one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations today.
The square has a rich history that dates back to the late 1800s. In 1849, Pietro Ghirardelli established a chocolate factory in San Francisco. The factory quickly gained notoriety for its artisan chocolates, and the square soon became known as “Ghirardelli Square.”
Over the years, the square has undergone many changes. In 1886, the first public parking lot was created next to the factory. In 1907, an ice cream store was opened on the north side of the square, and in 1917 a cinema was built on the west side of the square.
In 1969, Ghirardelli Square underwent its most significant transformation when it was designated as a historic district by the city of San Francisco. This designation allowed for restoration projects to be carried out on several key buildings within the square, including the Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory itself.
Today, Ghirardelli Square remains one of San Francisco’s most popular tourist destinations. It is home to several restaurants and shops, as well as an ice rink and a theater complex.
Lot #347 – What is it?
Ghirardelli Square is one of the most iconic and well-known squares in San Francisco. The square was originally called Battery Kearny, after Major General John F. Kearny, who fought in the Mexican-American War. In 1849, a group of Italian immigrants bought the lot from the military and started selling refreshments from their carts. The name changed to Ghirardelli Square in 1887, after Swiss chocolate maker Nicholas Ghirardelli opened a shop there. Today, Ghirardelli Square is home to some of San Francisco’s most popular restaurants and businesses, including Ghirardelli Chocolate Company, Swensen’s Ice Cream, Fisherman’s Wharf Restaurant, and Union Square Cafe.
The square has a rich history that dates back to the early days of San Francisco. Battery Kearny was originally part of a military installation that served as a base for soldiers during the Mexican-American War. After the war ended, the area became home to several small businesses and craftsmen. In 1849, a group of Italian immigrants bought the lot from the military and started selling refreshments from their carts. The name changed to Ghirardelli Square in 1887, after Swiss chocolate maker Nicholas Ghirardelli opened a shop there.
Today, Ghirardelli Square is home to some of San Francisco’s most popular restaurants and businesses, including Ghirardelli Chocolate Company, Swensen’s Ice Cream, Fisherman’s Wharf Restaurant
What to Expect at the Open House
When you arrive at the Ghirardelli Square Open House, you’ll be able to explore the building and its history. The event is open from 10am-4pm, and admission is free. You can also enjoy free refreshments, live music, and demonstrations throughout the day.
The square was originally built in 1851 as a coffee warehouse for San Francisco’s then-newly-founded Gold Rush era. In 1876, the square was leased by Alfred Ghirardelli, who turned it into a center of chocolate production. It became a public square in 1893 and was renamed Ghirardelli Square in 1911 after Alfred Ghirardelli died.
Today, the square features shops selling chocolate and other treats as well as restaurants and cafes. You can also find art exhibitions, performances, and special events here each year.
Updates Since the Open House
Since the Open House, Ghirardelli Square has been busy accommodating visitors from all over the Bay Area. New exhibits have been added to the museum, and new food options have sprung up in the square. Here are some of the most recent updates:
The Ghirardelli Chocolate Museum has undergone a major renovation, adding new exhibits on chocolate history and production. The museum now includes a display on how chocolate became an international sensation.
Ghirardelli Square’s newest restaurant, Bottega Veneta, has quickly become a popular spot for lunch and dinner. The menu features classic Italian dishes like chicken Milanese and tiramisu, as well as more contemporary items such as octopus carpaccio with black olive tapenade.
The square also recently welcomed two new retailers: Lululemon Athletica and Zara Home. Lululemon Athletica features high-end running gear and accessories, while Zara Home offers trendy home goods like rugs, bedding, and candles.
