Welcome to Forest Hill
Forest Hill is a neighborhood located in the area of San Francisco known as "West of Twin Peaks." Positioned between the Inner Sunset and West Portal, Forest Hill is a quiet neighborhood of approximately 650 homes on beautiful tree-lined streets. The neighborhood was originally developed in 1912, and featured wide, easy streets, which allowed for the horses and carriages of the time. With large homes and—to this day—no multi-tenancy buildings or condos, the area is one of only eight master-planned residence parks in San Francisco.
Residents enjoy the convenience of the Forest Hill Muni Station and easy access to the West Portal Station as well. Just down the hill you'll find Golden Gate Park with direct access to the Botanical gardens, the Japanese Tea House and the Music Concourse. UCSF Medical, a world-class teaching hospital, is also located just a short distance away. There are a variety of restaurants, shops and services available both in the West Portal Shopping district and the Irving Street corridor - anything from a great cup of coffee, to fine dining, hardware stores and friendly bakeries can be found in abundance. Additionally, there are a variety of award-winning public, private and parochial schools in the vicinity.
The Forest Hill Clubhouse was originally designed by Bernard Maybeck, an American architect who designed over 150 buildings in California, many of which are in Berkeley, where he resided. Maybeck is best known for designing the Palace of Fine Arts, located in the Marina district and which was built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Pacific International Exposition. He also designed a handful of San Francisco buildings; his early creations include a 1909 townhouse in Presidio Heights as well as the Tudor-style Roos House on Jackson Street, which is designated San Francisco Landmark #56. The clubhouse is regularly used for community events, meetings and gatherings including the Forest Hill Garden Club, which was established by a group of neighborhood women in 1931.
Recently named San Francisco's "Hottest Neighborhoods" by the San Francisco Chronicle, this charming residential community is one of the city's most beloved and friendly communities.
What to Love
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Quiet and picturesque
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Gorgeously green with mature trees and pristine landscaping
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Stunning single-family homes on large lots in a variety of architectural styles
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Wide streets following the contours of the hills
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Proximity to West Portal Avenue and the Irving Street Corridor, with access to a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants
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Excellent transportation system via MUNI
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Homes with picture-perfect hillside, Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay views
Local Lifestyle
Forest Hill boasts a refined lifestyle marked by its serene ambiance and a strong sense of community. The neighborhood's tree-lined streets exude an air of tranquility, catering to those who appreciate the finer aspects of suburban living within an urban setting. The excellent accessibility to public transportation enables residents to reach downtown San Francisco and surrounding areas easily. Forest Hill's proximity to the West Portal and Irving Street shopping districts ensures a sophisticated and well-rounded urban experience.
Things to Do
Forest Hill's numerous parks and recreational spaces contribute to the neighborhood's reputation as a luxurious oasis within the city. Residents can unwind at the picturesque J.P. Murphy Playground, which presents a children's play area, a tennis court, and lush green spaces for picnics and relaxation. Golden Gate park is just about 1 mile away and provides a beautiful setting for jogging, strolling, concerts or a quiet walk through the Botanical gardens or The Arboretum.
The iconic Forest Hill Clubhouse, a masterpiece designed by architect Bernard Maybeck, serves as the community's centerpiece, hosting exclusive events and grand celebrations in its elegant and historic setting.
Forest Hill Garden Club, one of the longest-running garden clubs in San Francisco, is a hub for avid gardeners, providing a forum for exchanging knowledge, sharing experiences, and cultivating beautiful gardens.
The annual Forest Hill Musical Days chamber music festival is another highlight of the neighborhood's cultural scene, showcasing world-class musicians in an intimate and sophisticated environment. This event celebrates the area's artistic heritage while providing residents with a unique and enriching experience.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
Forest Hill and its neighboring areas showcase diverse dining and shopping options. Bursa is a charming eatery serving Mediterranean cuisine, providing flavorful dishes in an intimate atmosphere. Spiazzo, a popular Italian restaurant, serves classic dishes in a cozy setting. Roti Indian Bistro presents delicious Indian cuisine and creative cocktails in a vibrant and chic atmosphere. In addition to these upscale dining options, the neighborhood has a variety of bars and lounges, including the Sherwood SF Cocktails & Lounge, a popular spot for locals to unwind.
As one of the most famed commercial hubs of the area, the West Portal Avenue shopping district was once surrounded by sand dunes and vegetable farms and is named after the Twin Peaks Tunnel. The district is the perfect place for a cup of coffee, fine dining, or a shopping spree. Another lively commercial district nearby is the Irving Street corridor, where you’ll find hot spots like Yun Yun Wong, Pasquale’s Pizzeria, and much more.
