Topdrawer — Local services in San Francisco

Amazing place! It's described as a stationary store but in reality it's so much more than that. There are quality notebooks, many imported. All the notebooks have samples that are usable with all the sample pens. The paper is quality as there is no bleed through with the fountain pens, most of which are Kaweco. The notebook paper includes Clairefontaine, amongst others. There are brush pens and mechanical pencils and erasers, not to mention the Polaroid cameras and film, wallets, markers, slippers, water bottles, straws, and so many other things. The staff are so nice, and have a genuine passion for the product. They're able to discuss the ins and outs of the products and make recommendations....

I came in looking for a holiday gift centered around “travel essentials.” This surprisingly isn’t a kit they have pre-made, but Kristian (not sure of spelling!) was super helpful in pointing out popular “travel” options. On one of the busiest days in their store, she went above and beyond to help me choose gifts in my budget, wrapped them one by one, and made conversation while doing it! She was awesome, and I’ll be recommending Topdrawer to friends looking for “nomad”...

This past summer, I was looking for Kolo products and found a plethora here. Bought a few; also a packable raincoat (who would have thought?). I just saw that they’re opening a store on 4th street in Berkeley on Thursday (11/15) and I am so excited that I won’t have to drive over to Union Street whenever I need an archival quality album or other upscale stationery...