Arkay Workshop

4.5 star rating
39 reviews Rating Details

Categories: Jewelry, Men's Clothing, Women's Clothing  [Edit]

2869 24th St
(between Bryant St & Florida St)
San Francisco, CA 94110
Neighborhood: Mission
(415) 641-7770
Hours:

Mon-Sat 11:30 am - 7 pm

Sun 11:30 am - 5 pm

Price Range:
$$
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Street
By Appointment Only:
No
Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes
About This Business:

Saffron Rare Threads takes you from the conference room to the cocktail lounge in our contemporary designs made right here in San Francisco.  Our…   read more »

Review Highlights   

  • user photo
    "I love the emphasis on local designers." In 5 reviews
  • user photo
    "Every pair of earrings they sell." In 6 reviews
  • user photo
    "Kudos to Rachel for her awesome taste." In 5 reviews
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39 reviews in English

  • Review from Sara K.

    • 70 friends
    • 75 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    4/21/2012

    Arkay is like a smaller version of Therapy, but with more locally made goods. It is very dangerous to enter, I must practice restraint when I'm browsing around. I've gotten a few cool goodies from here like a foldable backpack and an SF almanac/planner.

    Jewelry here is fun and moderately priced. There are very cute accessories and theres even a childrens section!

  • Review from Ali B.

    • 19 friends
    • 108 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    5/19/2012

    I like this spot. My style.

  • Review from My Yelp Account L.

    • 0 friends
    • 9 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    3/22/2012

    *

    Really cool independent boutique featuring interesting products from artists and craftspeople.  A lot of locally made/designed stuff.  Reasonably priced.  A good place to buy a nice and unique gift for someone.

    *

  • Review from Katy A.

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    6/10/2011 1 Check-in Here

    when I hang out with my friend in the mission early in the mornings...I always side glace over to Arkay to see if it's open...it doesn't open until later on Sundays and sometimes...I get a little sad about it.

    Why am I sad? Because not only is everything in this store adorable, or handmade or local... it's really reasonably priced. The store is small, but the flow works for it's size and although there is a large selection, you don't feel cramped.

    All of what I've found in this store are things I love wearing and get compliments on. I would totally recommend this store to my friends.

  • Review from gretel k.

    • 0 friends
    • 8 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    2/7/2012

    Great local business with an amazing selection, great style, solid politics/morals in their product selection (earth-friendly, support artists, etc), and the owner is a sweet person who seems to work quite hard on her little business. Nice ambiance, too. Look out for their amazing art shows and also the occasional sale--- well worth paying attention. Arkay rocks! Five stars!

  • Review from Becca S.

    • 2 friends
    • 13 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    7/29/2011

    This little store, run by the friendly owner, is one of my favorite places to get jewelry in the City. I'm taking about the kind of funky jewelry that local and overseas artists produce that are affordable for the middle (and sliding down the hill) class working girl. I get a constant stream of compliments on the stuff I find there like a ring made out of a shell, stunner shades, wooden earrings all of them around $12.

    Also, my friend and I got matching, gold hair barets in the shape of a leaf that look soooo nice and when both of them broke after a couple weeks, she replaced them free of charge. My friend had to, of course, ask her to do this - but it worked!

    The jewelry is cute here. Cheap, but not made to last.

  • Review from Mennlay A.

    • 20 friends
    • 93 reviews

    Oakland, CA

    5.0 star rating
    2/25/2011 1 Check-in Here

    Okay, Arkay, you're a bit dangerous for me to enter.  I always remember this boutique when looking for a special, one of a kind gift, but my American antics allows me to think it's okay to get something for myself just about every time I go.  Which is nothing but trouble.  It's tucked away in the colorful and authentically poppin' area of the mission, on 24th street. You might have passed by it a few times, not realizing all the treasures inside.  

    Rachel is a sweetheart.  Her, and her associated believe it or not, know about every item in the store. And yes, they're all locally made!  She even has an in with Pangea Organics and carries their earthy smelling products as well.  Not to mention that mostly everything is suprisingly decently price.

    You seriously won't be disappointed when looking for a unique piece, whether you're a man or a woman.  A perfect little gift shop indeed, with enough clothes to make you wish you were working more than part time.

  • Review from Natalye S.

    Berlin

    Germany
    4.0 star rating
    9/1/2010

    SUPER CUTE!

    We happened upon this place by chance, as we snagged a parking spot directly in front of it. The front window display caught our attention, so we headed in.

    Adorable clothes, bags, accessories, and even a collection of toys and clothing for babies. I thought everything in here was totally cute. The only downside was a lot of it strikes me as relatively expensive, but word on the street is that much of the inventory is locally-made by artists and designers in the area, so that makes sense.

    While I didn't buy anything, this place definitely caught my eye and I expect to be back to purchase some stuff soon, perhaps as gifts for friends. Also, they have animal face HATS, which I totally want, once they get some in stock to start selling.

    If you're in the neighborhood, I recommend you stop by. This place is full of stuff that appeals to just about everyone.

  • Review from Sarah W.

    • 42 friends
    • 4 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    10/23/2011

    Undoubtedly every time I walk into Arkay I walk out with (after paying) a new favorite wardrobe piece. They are very reasonably priced, and more importantly, the lines and cuts of the clothing selected are flattering for pretty much all body types. This store has saved my ass in emergency costume changes! So I adore Arkay!

  • Review from Stephanie p.

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    12/2/2008

    Not only do I want to buy about 90% of the clothes in here, but I can actually afford 90% of the clothes in here (obviously and unfortunately, not all at once). For me, I feel like that's very rare, especially since I've been cursed with taste in clothing that is often far beyond my financial means. And what's EVEN better about this store (for me), is that it is a mere 2 blocks from my apartment. This store was most likely a gift to me from God... or a secret admirer on the city planning board... or something.

    Yes, 'tis my new favorite boutique in the area - well-chosen selection of clothes, goodies and gifts, most of which seem to be from sustainable/organic companies. A VERY welcome addition to the neighborhood... Hope I don't go broke.

  • Review from Loreto R.

    • 74 friends
    • 141 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    11/5/2008 5 photos

    I was lucky enough to be invited to the opening night party and although I was there just to hang out, I ended up buying a lovely plum vegan wallet. I cannot resist temptation when things are just jumping off the shelves screaming, "Look at me!" Oh, how I wish Arkay Workshop was in *my* neighborhood. I have a feeling I'd be more broke than I already am.

    This is a great boutique for ecologically-responsible clothing, accessories, bags, purses, clutches and wallets, artwork, hats, candles, jewelry, bath and body, housewares, knick-knacks and much, much more! The selection is beautiful and carefully chosen by the very sweet owner, Rachel. And just like the other reviewers, I find the prices *so* reasonable.

    From the moment you walk in you notice how well everything is organized and coordinated. The colors, textures and patterns are so pleasing to the eye.  Kudos to Rachel for her awesome taste! This is definitely the place to go to pick up gifts for friends and a little something for yourself too.

  • Review from Erica K.

    • 49 friends
    • 40 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    7/1/2010

    I've lived near Arkay for several years now, and it has always been my go-to place when I'm missing the finishing touch on an outfit for an event, or for a last minute gift.  Not only do they sell artisan men's and women's clothing, but they also have a nice selection of handbags, accessories, gifts, items for baby, and lingerie.

    They are dog friendly, so if you're toting a small dog, you can bring him in.  There is always nice music playing on their iPod, and they are willing to order other sizes, or hold items for you.

    I have lots of their stuff now, and always get compliments on the things I find here.

    Love it.

  • Review from Vi N.

    • 142 friends
    • 96 reviews

    Stockton, CA

    4.0 star rating
    8/19/2010

    This place is on the small side, but filled with lots of goodies.  The emphasis on clothing seemed to be eco-friendly, comfortable pieces.  Looking for a cute club top? You won't find it here.  Looking for something comfortable to sleep/live/lounge in? Check out Arkay!

    I spent most of my time rummaging through their accessories.  They had a good selection of unique pieces, in a variety of prices to fit everyone's budget.  I saw some amazing cut-out wood earrings for $50, and then some funky carved shell rings for only $12.   The less expensive pieces were arranged together on a tiered tray, and I think the owner very much made an effort to carry nifty, affordable pieces so that everyone who walks into the store can leave with something.

    I wish the store wasn't QUITE so small, because I did feel bad browsing and trying on a million different rings as the lone salesgirl looked on.

  • Review from Kristin P.

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    2/17/2010

    I almost don't want to Yelp this place because I like that its a little hidden gem that only I know about.  

    But its a great shop that deserves the exposure so I will sing its praises here.  Arkay has men's and women's clothes/accessories (better women stuff, according to my trendy bf).  I'm always shocked by the pricetags here-- in a good way.  I bought a jersey dress that I wear to death and I think it cost me $54 or something.  Really reasonable prices for one-of-a-kind type pieces.  

    Arkay is also a really great place for gift shopping.  Cute local nick nacks and beautiful, reasonably priced jewelry.  A must-hit on any Mission shopping trip (or after brunch at St. Francis when you might see me there :)

  • Review from Krissy M.

    • 54 friends
    • 260 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    10/22/2008

    Thank GOD!

    Not that I want valencia-esque boutique mania on 24th street BUT I am very, very excited to see this funky shop open on my block.

    Glad to have a neighborhood place to run to when I want a funky outfit, or need a quick shopping fix.

    The owner has a great aesthetic  and the prices are totally reasonable.

  • Review from Jana T.

    • 17 friends
    • 62 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    4/6/2010

    This place should be loved on many levels --

    First of all, they provide nice products that are artisan made at prices that I can afford.  I want to buy stuff made by artisans and small designers because I am helping hard-working people who make beautiful things for a small market -- but I can't always afford to.  I think Arkay Workshop has a range of beautiful clothes, hats and jewelry at very good prices.

    The space is perfect, what a small shop should be.  You don't feel uncomfortable browsing or trying things on.  It feels like you're in your grandmother's attic looking at all her curiosities.

    Finally -- I bought a pair of wooden earrings there I love.  One of them broke and I finally brought it back.  The saleswoman, I understand, couldn't necessarily replace them, but emailed the artisan on my behalf.  She was courteous and was willing to handle the interaction on my behalf.  She was nice without being sickeningly annoyingly polite and there was no drama, no fuss -- it was just a good normal human interaction.  I can't say about many stores.  They deserve every star I gave them and I hope they do very very well.

  • Review from Helen S.

    • 0 friends
    • 15 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    7/5/2011

    I love this store!!! I was introduced to this store by a good friend. I love all the amazing items that the owner, Rachel picks. She has such a great eye for items. My friend and I that shop there, always get a bazillion compliments on items there. Rachel, the owner, is so amazing, that one of my barrettes broke (I wore it nonstop, even when I was surfing in the ocean!) and then she totally sent away for it and replaced it for free. I love this store and I find the prices reasonable. She also randomly fixed a necklace for me on my first visit in the store, with her special tools, and I hadn't even bought anything!

  • Review from Seong P.

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    12/2/2010

    We parked right in front of the store because we were going to dinner nearby.  I saw an adorable dress in the window so I had to go in.  They had a lot of cute handbags, earrings, baby clothes and home accessories.  The prices for adult clothes seemed to range from $40 to $200.  I saw a couple of dresses and home accessories I will be back for after I'm done buying gifts.

  • Review from Erin Y.

    • 3 friends
    • 29 reviews

    Oakland, CA

    5.0 star rating
    11/15/2009

    It's probably a good thing that I live in Berkeley and not the Mission.

    This store is amazing. If you could bottle up my mismatched taste and sell it, the prime location for selling it would probably be this store. I love the variance in price range, $15 earrings to Loomstate jeans, it's there. So no matter how broke you're feeling (it's pretty much a continual state for me) you can find something here. I picked up a great San Francisco tote, that, despite being emblazoned with the city's map, does not make me feel like a Fisherman's Wharf tourist. At least, there's no hawaiian shirt anywhere near me, and I'm smart enough not to wear shorts in this city most of the year.

    I also got a great wallet with BUS SLOT ON THE BACK. It pretty much makes my life better all the time. And it's cute. So score for me. There's even little pockets for quarters on the inside that say laundry, parking and beer.

    Oh, I'll be back, there's no doubt about that.

  • Review from Ruby F.

    • 9 friends
    • 53 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    9/6/2008

    Arkay just opened in the MIssion yesterday!

    There is a cute mix of homewares, clothing, etc - many items from SF designers. They have a mix of price points from nature-inspired jewelry starting in the $30s to organic Loomstate jeans fro $170. The owner is very friendly.

    This is a great place to buy a unique gift for someone special and support local talent at the same time

  • Review from Zenaida H.

    • 13 friends
    • 8 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    11/11/2008

    Make your own Ductbill wallet
    Vintage bowtie necklace
    Gold feather bracelet
    Vegan bag
    That sewing book
    Every pair of earrings they sell
    The grey eco friendly hoodie
    That cute dress
    The joke book above the mens clothing
    These silver butterfly hair accessories
    That paint splatter tank

    Above are a "few" things that I have my eye on at Arkay's

    This is an amazingly cute shop with so many incredible items to purchase! Better yet, items that YOU WANT to purchase.  
    Adorable jewelry and clothes and those vegan bags!!!!

  • Review from Michael S.

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    11/23/2008 1 Check-in Here

    Nestled in the heart of 24th is a new boutique that's got really cool unique stuff. I've been in love with skunkfunk for the past couple years. I was really in need of new inspiriation, I think I found it; a block from my apt! They just opened in the last 2 months (as of this writing) according to the owner that was working there today.

  • Review from David G.

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    8/15/2010

    Walking back from brunch today, my friends and I passed Arkay and were like, "Wow! There is a store like this on this street? Let's go in!" So in we went, to peruse the assortment of t-shirts, man bags, candles, gifts etc. Picked up a couple aromatic beeswax candles to stink up my condo nicely. Great sale going on as well. I'll return...

  • Review from Erica C.

    Portsmouth, NH

    5.0 star rating
    6/2/2010

    I love love loved this place.  The only sweet store in a whole neighborhood of Mexican food restaurants and Jesus statue stores.  I was so happy to find his gem and I wanted to buy everything.  The jewelery here is awesome and they had a lot of cool wooden pieces.  The lady working in the store was super nice too.  A bit pricey, but pretty much everything is either hand made, vintage, or made with susainable products.

  • Review from Rebecca P.

    San Francisco, CA

    3.0 star rating
    5/9/2010

    It smells nice in here. Also, they play really pleasant indie pop girl bands over the in-store speakers. I wasn't thrilled by their selection of clothes - the stuff they sell is really well made and nice but there's not a huge variety. They do, however, have really cute accessories and also little baby clothes that almost make me want to get knocked up so I have an excuse to buy them (but not really.)

  • Review from Cassidy P.

    Chicago, IL

    4.0 star rating
    6/26/2010

    Great stuff; a recommendation from my cousin who lives close by and shops here regularly.  I stopped in for a visit and loved the range of clothes, belts, jewelry, kid stuff, cards, candles, lingerie, bags, hats, etc.  Especially love their large selection of "Alternative" brand tees & tank tops.  If you like the shops near 16th & Valencia (Therapy, Candystore Collective, etc.), you'll love Arkay.

  • Review from Taler N.

    • 5 friends
    • 15 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    8/19/2009

    Obviously people love this place. There's no reason not to. Its cute, packed with stuff, all different price ranges, eclectic selection, and an awesome owner ( at least I think she owns it). I love the emphasis on local designers. I'm glad its in my hood!

  • Review from Kristin M.

    • 0 friends
    • 5 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    12/30/2010

    I absolutely love Arkay! I've been shopping here since they have opened and have never been disappointed with a purchase.The owner often tends to the store and is always helpful and courteous. Almost everything that Arkay carries is either made by local designers/artist or is eco-friendly. I also would say that the quality of the clothing is very good which is a problem now a days...

    This is the perfect place for the eco-conscious shopper for woman's clothes, men's clothes and gifts!!!

  • Review from Jenn C.

    • 15 friends
    • 48 reviews

    Park Slope, Brooklyn, NY

    5.0 star rating
    9/26/2008

    This place is great and I hope that it stays - as its a block from my house!  I bought a very cute top and some funky coasters for a friend. The prices are veryyyy reasonable  - they have a nice blend of affordable and more costly items.

  • Review from Doctor L.

    • 0 friends
    • 170 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    5.0 star rating
    4/2/2010 1 Check-in Here

    Saw a cool hoodie, but they didn't have it in my size.  They offered to email me when it came in.  They did, and now I have an awesome new hoodie.

  • Review from elly j.

    • 33 friends
    • 15 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    3/7/2010

    This is a great little shop with a really good selection of cute stuff that is all totally in your price range. A lot of what they have seems to come from local designers.  They even have quality socks and underwear.

  • Review from Amy T.

    • 10 friends
    • 13 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    9/11/2008

    This is a really cute shop that sells local and sustainable clothing and products.  My cousin bought a stylin' vegan clutch bag at a very reasonable price.  It is a great place to buy fun gifts like eggshell planters, cute colorful stripe socks made from regenerated cotton, jewelry, bags made by local designers and many more.  This place is worth checking out.  You will come out of the store feeling good about your purchases.

  • Review from Erica T.

    • 9 friends
    • 25 reviews

    Cambridge, MA

    5.0 star rating
    3/3/2009

    This place is the cutest! Kudos for expanding the shop variety in this budding neighborhood. Great selection, great atmosphere and for what it is, a good price. I bought a really adorable onsie, blanket and journal for a baby shower gift. Best of luck to new business owners, I am sure the timing can't be easy, so i encourage everyone to get out there and support the local merchants.

  • Review from crystal j.

    • 58 friends
    • 51 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    2/1/2009

    What a lovely treat to get a chance to hang out and chat with rachel in her very lovely store, which features  sustainable and  responsible products for the body, the bedroom, the closet,  to baby.  Everything is has an element of charm and rachel has a very discerning eye but keeps the prices within a working girl's budget. Without a doubt I will be back to support quality and local artists. A welcome addition to the mission.

  • Review from Deborah C.

    • 25 friends
    • 53 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    2/22/2009

    Arkay on 24th is a treasure chest full of affordable but quality style women's men's and kid's clothing by local, West Coast and sustainable designers.  I went searching for an umbrella and some gifts for small children and stayed for the GREAT selection of accessories--I kept picking up and putting down nearly-one-of-a-kind Day of the Dead patterned wallets, embroidered belts,  ribbon-tied aprons, skirts with a biker-like pocket on the back hip and carefully crafted scented candles. I highly recommend the store for both gifting and revamping the wardrobe with clothing you can feel good about without draining your bank account. Better yet, owner Rachel is kind, patient and cool.

  • Review from terra r.

    • 0 friends
    • 15 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    11/28/2009

    this store is lovely.
    it's hands down one of the best places I've found for one of a kind pieces that are both beautiful and in my budget.

    its hard to leave with out finding at least one thing you can't imagine living without...  a  well curated selection eco-chic clothing, cool trinkets for the home, bags, books and totally amazing jewelry...
    rotating art exhibits + the music is always great. i just like hanging in this store!

    this is a wonderful place to go when you need a little pick me up for yourself or a gift for a friend.

  • Review from Maia B.

    • 2 friends
    • 11 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    8/5/2010

    I love this store! My dad bought me a really cute belt from here, and I decided to check it out. I really love the dresses and accessories. Every time I buy something here I get a million compliments whenever I wear it. The prices are reasonable, and the clothes are really unique and cute. The inventory changes pretty regularly, so I always manage to find something new and wonderful each time I come in.

  • Review from Irene M.

    • 0 friends
    • 20 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    12/18/2008

    I stumbled across this new shop a month or so ago.  It has a lot of beautiful clothes by local designers and most of the prices are very, VERY reasonable.  They also carry some amazing jewelry and other sundry items.  The owner is a total sweetheart too!

  • Review from orange a.

    • 0 friends
    • 16 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    4/7/2009

    I love it here - its cool and hip and such a nice place to find new treasures as gifts for your friends or something to keep for yourself. I think I touched everything in the shop.  Make sure to check it out!

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