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- Hours:
Wed-Fri 12 pm - 6 pm
Sat-Sun 12 pm - 7 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Saia R. said: "Went and got quotes from three places and Jonathan at MD's beat all of them!! Will go back there next time for sure." read more »
34 reviews for Viracocha
Review Highlights
"Oh my word, did you say 10% off of typewriters."
(in 8 reviews)
"I stumbled upon this place quite by accident one night with..."
(in 4 reviews)
"Music selection was very cool."
(in 4 reviews)
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34 reviews in English
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Review from Kim L.
Walnut Creek, CA
1/26/2012
We actually found this amazing little shop through a music performance by one of our favorite singer/songwriters, Jonah Matranga. When we first got to the shop, you enter the room and are taken back by the unique and quirky doo-dads and findings that surround you. You could spend hours just looking through all of their antiques, furniture, old books/magazines, and jewelry. (although most of it was too expensive to actually buy)
We were then directed to this small door in the corner, and found our way down a narrow wooden staircase that ended in a whole new room, with a bar/snack room, stage and seating galore. It was packed when we got there, and hard to move around with all of the furniture (couches, big chairs, etc) but I imagine if the staff planned the seating a little better, they could work it out. Everyone was having such a good time milling about the store upstairs, and enjoying the ambiance downstairs, that the music performances were such a cherry-on-top kind of thing.
I don't know if they do private parties, events, weddings, or anything along those lines, down in their basement room, but it would definitely be worth checking into. It was so unique and relaxing, yet exciting at the same time, it would make the perfect place to host an event.
If you are in the area, the shop alone is worth a stop by and a look-see. -
Review from Daniel H.
San Francisco, CA
8/14/2011
one of my favorite places in all the mission ...
the staff is super knowledgeable about their products and the space overall is just rad !
5 stars for sure... -
Review from Jack N.
San Francisco, CA
1/9/2012
Great, smart people to help you find all the perfect gifts for that oddball in your life. Downstairs is where the real magic happens though. Be SURE to check the bookstore. I want to live in the bathroom, you'll see.
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Review from Liana R.
San Carlos, CA
12/29/2011
I like what they do after closing, downstairs. ;) ...but, upstairs in daylight can be mildly interesting.
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Review from Allison L.
Berkeley, CA
11/21/2011
My god is this store cool. Amazing stuff at not-so-bad prices, sweet-seeming staff, yummy smell. I left with a smile.
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Review from Nish N.
3/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
Now this is what the Nission is all about. The shop is an assorted mishmash of antiquities and fine items from a decidedly unmodern age. It's almost like a general store, since you can expect to find everything from hand salves and eyeglasses to vintage typewriters and books of poetry. I think I spotted a sewing machine and a lantern. The point is you're going to discover some gem once you step inside.
But in itself, I'd maybe give this concept 4 stars. The real reason it's unabashedly 5 shiny reds is because of the downstairs event space. It's almost carnivalesque in feel, maybe old timey? Definitely intimate, perhaps like a Greenwich Village coffeeshop from yesteryear? I had the chance to see a dublit (http://dublit.com) reading and performance here the other night, and it was a knock-out. Will be bck again, real soon.
Oh, and I looked up Viracocha and was happy to find out "he" was the Incan Creator of Civilization. Very nice.Listed in: The Nission
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Review from bobo n.
San Francisco, CA
11/2/2011
That's 5 stars for the sekrit concert space downstairs, I have not spent any time in the street-level shop. Besides all the nice things folks have said about downstairs, let me add that the acoustics are great. This is one of the best-sounding small club rooms in the city. Go hear a band here.
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Review from Lorrie M.
1/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
I suppose it almost feels sinful to give this place any less than everyone else's 5 stars and I must admit that it is a very cool joint that's both unique and mysterious ... but I just can't get myself to say this is the BEST of this type of place I've ever been to. So here it is, a 4 star.
However, this is not to say that this place is most definitely worth your time. From the moment you step in the door and see the red bathtub with a "I don't give a %^!@$" kitty sleeping next to a Marilyn Monroe portrait, you already know that this is going to be fun. There's dramatic piano music ringing throughout the small, space which you eventually find out to be an actual, antique looking pianist whose tip jar resembles the peanut guy.
It is filled with antiques, but more so, very unique antiques such as old-world type writers, desks, tables, chairs, strange objects you can only think of finding on Riley's Believe It or Not, and some modern flares like letterpress stationary.
This spot is undoubtedly entertaining and will probably keep you fascinated for a long time to come. -
Review from Elaine T.
4/16/2011
I'm reviewing the music scene here since I've never actually shopped at the antique store (really cool items but totally out of my price range as of now).
"Yelp SAYS this place has live music, but why does it seem pretty dead?" That's cause the actual event space is in the basement. You walk in, give your donation (they ask for suggested donations instead of charging for a set ticket), and walk down the stairs for the music. It's a pretty intimate space, kind of like something you'd expect in the MidWest, not california. There's a small stage in front and bar in back. Tons of seating is available. If not, there's always space in the front if you're okay with sitting on the floor (the crowd here always is).
They play a lot of folk/indie music here. For sure it's more laid back. I recall once an old lady was offered a hit of a joint here and (HAHA!) she was pretty offended that SUCH a thing would happen at a public establishment.
One of the most memorable aspects of Viracocha is their cool bathroom. Who would've thought? Haha. It's like a zen retreat, complete with bathtub and sitting chair. Too bad the lines for the bathroom kept me from lounging. Wait....why was I at Viracocha in the first place? Oh right, to listen to music, not hang out in some bathroom.
I really enjoyed the music, the establishment and crowd. I've actually been back here a couple times, but the first will always be the most memorable. -
Review from Jeremy S.
Quirky store. Looks like vintage typewriters are the new fixies and Viracocha's got a bunch of 'em. They've also got a giant black cat walking around and a live piano player (at least on weekends). It wasn't always obvious what was for sale vs display, but like Paxton Gate this one is a must see...
Listed in: Mission District Tour
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Review from Jenni J.
Belvedere Tiburon, CA
10/15/2011
This place is one of a kind. It's well worth a visit!!
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Review from Storm V.
San Francisco, CA
11/22/2010
This store is a treasure filled with treasures! I stumbled upon this place quite by accident one night with a dear friend. At first we didn't think it was open (it was late at night), but lo and behold, the doors open and we were swept into one of the most enchanting stores I have seen in some time. I can't quite put my finger on how to describe the ambiance, but I was mesmerized by vintage magazines, delicate artwork, tree sculptures and timeless fashions.
That first night, my friend and I were encouraged to go downstairs because there was a performance going on. The singing was enchanting and the performer was backlit (!) which made her voice even more pronounced and we sat in sacred silence and I swear I felt in tune with the soul of the building and the intentions of those who create that space. A truly magickal moment (and the singer was Rachel Toups--check her out on MySpace).
That was not my only time to Viracocha. Later, I met the owner and had a great chat about supporting local stores and artists. I was impressed with his level of dedication and overall friendly demeanor. And you have to check out the bathroom! I wanted to hide in the tub and stay there overnight! -
Review from Sam E.
Philadelphia, PA
2/25/2011
This place reminds me of cockroach in Spanish, and then I get that damn tune stuck in my head.
This is a very fun store, although it is filled with things that I'm more interested in looking at than ever actually purchasing. Do you really have space in your apt to fit an old typewriter? -
Review from Stephanie W.
Arlington, VA
5/1/2010
I finally managed to find my way into Viracocha after multiple weeks of admiring through the window but seeing they were consistently closed, even in the middle of the afternoon.
"When do you usually open?" I asked at 5pm while browsing their clothing.
"Well, we try to open by noon, but sometimes we're lazy and don't open until 1" the man behind the counter informed me.
"I was here at 2 today and you were closed" I said.
"Hrm. Interesting."
Such nonchalance about hours might have irked me at other stores, but not Viracoacha. This place is just too cool and has character (like all other stores on Valencia). Yet unlike everywhere else, this place specializes in antiques and used items, not new. Their selection of books, typewriters and clothes were absolutely fantastic and I would come back in a heartbeat to check out more of their great furniture. They even have a very good natured kitty sitting in a wheelbarrow towards the front of the store, guarding a stack of records.
I asked if they sold typewriter ribbons for my Underwood and they have a new shipment coming in next week.
Some items are prohibitively expensive, but quite a few of their coats are very reasonably priced. I am looking forward to returning to this lovely mission shop. -
Review from Audrey D.
San Francisco, CA
8/8/2011
Amazing place, one of kind objects, art, jewelery, clothes, hats, books, AND a place where community is being celebrated by local musicians.
The downstairs club is very magical, as the upstairs is. That was the old Botanica forever and the spirit of magic is still there! -
Review from Mennlay A.
Oakland, CA
10/25/2010
Oh my word, did you say 10% off of typewriters!?! I am obsessed! How about ink? Is that included?
http://mennlay.wordpre... -
Review from mynameisdavid m.
San Francisco, CA
3/21/2011
I might be interested in seeing shows here more often if I didn't smell like cigarettes every time I left. I know they're aware of the lack of ventilation in the subterranean performance space--they told my friend he wasn't allowed to eat any food there as it might smell and there was no ventilation. However they have no problem with people smoking cigs and pot in that same unventilated space. Just something for folks to be aware of. Otherwise it's an A-Ok space and a good venue for local performers.
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Review from Heather U.
San Francisco, CA
4/12/2011
Fucking excuse my French but I fucking love this place! Amazing antiques, plenty of reborn typewriters, a modern-day speakeasy downstairs after regular store hours, and a bathroom you just want to hang out in forever. Yeah, I said it and I meant it.
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Review from Guinevere Y.
San Francisco, CA
5/7/2010
Expressive, creative, and fabulous! Unique nuance. Even the bathroom is an experience!
Viracocha's kind of a gemini, in a valuable and versatile Valencia St. way. By day: a community antique store with everything from turnstiles to typewriters. By night: an amazing local venu for poetry and music.
I recommend going late afternoons/early evenings to catch both sides. Great place to make new connections. Met some very talented artists there - painters, authors, and musicians. -
Review from John G.
San Francisco, CA
3/6/2010
Viracocha is another great addition to the fun, creative and eclectic small business scene along Valencia (at 21st St). What makes this store unique (even for Valencia St) is that nothing in the store is new. Every item is old (antique furniture and typewriters, really old albums, out of print books, etc) and sort of intriguing, enough so that someone will want to give the item a new life. For example, I liked the out of print book containing two of Anton Chekhov's plays translated into English (circa 1966).
The owner's name is Jonathan and the store represents all the "stuff" he has collected over many years. As he put it: "Think of the store as a garage sale with everything I've collected for 20 years", when I asked about the genesis of the store and "its an experiment....we'll see how it goes." The concept even goes one step further -- the entire interior is constructed from reclaimed wood and other materials. I hope the experiment succeeds. -
Review from April M.
San Francisco, CA
3/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
Excellent vibe. Music selection was very cool. Was able to select a new Pandora station based on the album covers in the store. Very unique items for interior design.
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Review from Kathleen G.
San Francisco, CA
5/5/2010
Great music, great space. End of review.
But, of course, there's the fab vintage bric-a-brac upstairs, which I didn't even mention, and which you should go to see.
I might well be biased, seeing as how I live a few doors down from this place, and they often host my housemate (who plays some kickass blue grass music), but whatever.
Go. Here. Soon.
It rocks. -
Review from Meghan M.
San Francisco, CA
2/8/2010
At first I heard "There is a new venue opening!" to which I'm always OK with being an early adopter in the nightlife scene. We then walk into what seems to be an antique shop. Granted an antique shop with lots of cool kids drinking out of brown bags. The store itself was very cool, very open and I am excited to go back and actually check it out.
Find the black door down a set of painted black stairs into a painted black basement you will find one of the coolest secret venues in the city. And the sound system was unexpectedly good!
I will be watching this place for their next event and I highly suggest you do too. -
Review from Hilaria S.
San Francisco, CA
1/7/2011
I love this place and it truly deserve an outstanding rating. I stumbled upon Viracocha about a month ago when my sister and I decided to go hunting for some interesting places to hang out. We were absolutely amazed when we entered - what an experience. The place was filled with vintage magazines, artwork and sculptures that all seemed so unique and really gave the place a wonderful atmosphere. We heard music from downstairs and decided to go check it out. There was a performance by Rachel Toups; her voice is amazing and we stayed until the end. The owner is so amazing; very friendly and he can sit and talk to you for hours. We really enjoyed the whole night and we are definitely going back. The place is very neat and clean; even the bathrooms are amazingly decorated and you really feel welcomed. Ciracocha is definitely worth a visit and gets a five star rating from me!
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Review from sophie h.
San Francisco, CA
1/18/2011
Love this place. The best definition for the overall feel of the store: uniqueness.
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Review from Natasha P.
Durham, NC
10/2/2010
What a COOL spot. My friend and I stumbled upon this place tonight as we were going for an evening stroll. They guy in the front was really friendly and let us in to check out the store even though it was closed for an event. Awesome antiques and just a really nice vibe. He told us we could also check out the fiction reading going on downstairs so we took a peak and got completely sucked in. Charming event going on and it's got a REALLY cool/creepy/unique feel down there. I definitely plan to check out the calendar and come out to more events!
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Review from Lara M.
San Francisco, CA
12/16/2010
I can't resist walking into this store almost every time I pass by and staring longing at everything in here. I've seen quite a bit of live music here- love the speakeasy vibe. If I could live here and/or have my house look like this space, I would. Love Viracocha!
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Review from Sean M.
San Francisco, CA
9/8/2010
What a find! From the frontier-style antiques and arresting art displays everywhere to the performance space down below, the place is an absolute San Francisco original and a great way to spend some time.
I haven't really figured out how to spend too much money here, yet -- the art's priced out of my budget -- but I always have fun walking in and half the time there's some killer, free-or-donation-suggested show going on. Those can be pretty spotty but I've only seen good performances here.
Plus, they have the best bathroom in San Francisco. I don't even mean, like, for stores and restaurants -- this bathroom is better than any I've seen in people's HOMES. -
Review from Andre G.
Oakland, CA
7/22/2010
Awesome antique shop with great taste! Lots of sweet typewriters, blender lamps, and smoking red bear club tubs. A place like that I could get used to hanging out at. The wood panaleing makes it seem like youare in a sweet deluxe apartment. The basement is where the magic happens. Its great for about 50 people to sit down and relax and enjoy community talks, live bands, and fundraisers. A jewel of SF.
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Review from aimee j.
San Francisco, CA
3/4/2010
i've been waiting for this place to open......every time i go to valencia whole foods or jay's or serrano's i would pass by and wonder what was going on inside.
yay for me, this time they were open!
what a fun space to wander through. such a variety of hodgepodge and antiques, clothing, books, and more. i found a lovely (used) hat to replace the longtime fave i recently lost on BART for only $7!!!
even better is the sleek black store kitty, asha. -
Review from sanjee w.
Irvine, CA
12/23/2010
stumbled into poetry night. With a jazz trio accompanying the readings! Fantastic experience. Great space. Interesting chill crowd.
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Review from Danielle D.
Alamo, CA
2/28/2010
My mom and I stumbled upon this cute "antique" store while on a hunt for a coffee table for my new place. We originally went to an antique shop a block away (which was a HUGE disappointment). We walked in and our jaws dropped! The eye this guy has for furniture is absolutely incredible. Very rustic yet very chic...my favorite were his vintage door tables with old radiators as legs. It was as if this store appeared out of my imagination...everything I ever wanted but couldn't put into words was in it. To top it off, they were filming a music video downstairs in their basement...very cool! I will absolutely visit frequently now that I know it exists. The guy who owns it is as nice as they come and is very very helpful. He makes you feel right at home, along with the beautiful black cat that greets you at the door :)
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Review from craig v.
San Francisco, CA
5/29/2011
I looked through the box of dollar records. I selected three. I took them to the counter. While talking with the owner about records I mention that I am glad to find these three records and that they are all in excellent shape. He tells me that there are more records in the other room. I go to look at them. He holds the three records that i had previously selected behind the counter. I find nothing interesting in the other room and return to the counter to pay for the records. The owner is no longer behind the counter. His helper is there instead. He says that these records are ten dollars each because they're in such good shape. I ask if he is sure. Yes. He's sure. I ask if he will sell them to me for the price listed on the box. Nope.I ask to speak to the owner. Nope. He's not here anymore--but before he left he priced the records. I passed on them. It was clear that between my leaving them at the front counter and returning to purchase them the price had gone up because the owner had been tipped off (by ME!) that they were nice items. Yup. Good as it gets. Great place. Never again.
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Review from Margaux G.
San Francisco, CA
6/6/2010
One of the most unique performance spaces/ antique shops I've ever been in! The shows include poetry, live music, and other miscellaneous events. It is the base point for a huge artistic community so it's really great for networking. I have never had a bad time at Viracocha! Go to their website and check out their calender...they have different stuff all the time.
