In just a few short months, the first five retailers in San Francisco's newest community, Mission Rock, will be open for business.

Instead of anchoring the site with national chains, the burgeoning waterfront district is keeping things local with a satisfying group of Bay Area-based restaurants and services.

“This first set of eateries and shops—and the ones that follow—will serve as a celebration of San Francisco’s diverse and innovative community of local business owners,” says Maggie Kadin, managing director of the community’s developer, Tishman Speyer.

Pastries from Arsicault Bakery(Courtesy of @arsicaultbakery)

First up to bat in the food department will be Arsicault Bakery, whose divine croissants have been recognized among the country’s best, and the healthfully delicious grab-and-go market Proper Food. The new flagship (and 100th location!) for SF original Ike’s Love & Sandwiches will join them, opening on the neighborhood’s stretch of Third Street.

Also among the cohort are the high-end men’s haircut and spa treatment purveyor Blades Co. Barbershop, and the first indoor location for the outdoor gym LuxFit, which offers group classes, personal training, and DIY machines and weights.

Mission Rock hopes to welcome another slew of other businesses—including its first full-service restaurant—to more than 11,000 square feet of retail space around mid-2024. Work is also moving forward on China Basin Park, the community’s five-acre open space.

“From the beginning, our goal was for Mission Rock to become San Francisco’s next great neighborhood and one that reflects the values and distinct character of the Bay Area,” says SF Giants president and CEO Larry Baer. The team is one of Mission Rock’s partners, along with the Port of San Francisco and Tishman Speyer.

The new neighborhood, whose first residents moved into The Canyon building in June, will ultimately also include additional open spaces, innovative workspaces, and parking for visitors to the adjacent Oracle Park. Along with the recently completed new global headquarters for Visa, a second commercial building designated for life sciences research and development is in the works.

Summer selections at Proper Food.(Courtesy of @eatproper)