Union Square References in Famous Literary Works

Most larger cities in the United States have their fair share of interesting landmarks, unique local foods and other stuff and San Francisco is certainly full of interesting and cool things to see. If you happen to be a avid reader or even just enjoy seeing famous locations, you can find quite a few spots in Union Square that have been mentioned in some famous or important literary works. Here are some novels that have a nod to Union Square and places you can visit today.

Literary References

The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett (1930)

Union Square and nearby locations are integral to this classic noir novel. John’s Grill is probably the most famous reference in the book when it comes to Union Square. Sam Spade, the protagonist, famously dines at John’s Grill, enjoying chops, baked potatoes, and sliced tomatoes. The restaurant remains a literary landmark, directly referenced in the book. They also have a lot of references to the novel inside of the restaurant, so it is worth heading there at least for a drink.

Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin (1978)

This beloved series about life in San Francisco often mentions Union Square as a central meeting point or shopping hub for the characters. It captures the energy of the area in the 1970s.

San Francisco Stories by Jack London

Jack London’s short stories often feature the city as a character in itself. Union Square, as a busy part of downtown San Francisco, is referenced in relation to the city’s cultural and commercial life.

Blue Jasmine by Joan Didion

This essay includes descriptions of San Francisco’s urban geography, with Union Square mentioned as a focal point for the city’s shoppers and tourists.

The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan (1989)

Union Square is described as part of San Francisco’s Chinatown-adjacent landscape, symbolizing the blend of old and new that characterizes immigrant experiences in the city.

A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius by Dave Eggers (2000)

This memoir set in the Bay Area mentions Union Square as part of the author’s vivid portrayal of San Francisco life.

McTeague by Frank Norris (1899)

While set primarily in Polk Street and surrounding areas, Frank Norris’s turn-of-the-century novel includes mentions of Union Square as part of the evolving cityscape. This book also served as the inspiration for Mcteagues Saloon on Polk Street. You can see a large gold tooth hanging from the Mcteagues sign, a reference to the main character in the book who is a dentist.

Golden Gate by Vikram Seth (1986)

Reference: This novel in verse mentions Union Square as part of San Francisco’s backdrop, weaving the area into the characters’ lives and narratives.