Bernal Beast

Located in cozy Bernal Heights, Bernal Beast is a haven for neighborhood pets. The front window boasts handmade signs advertising everything from chicken feed to animal memorial service consultations; inside, you’ll find ample treats for dogs and cats—the bulk bins offer biscuits by the pound for dogs who have been very good—and a formidable wall of shampoos. Fish tanks glug happily in the back of the store. Goldfish, guppies and other standards are available for purchase on the spot, while rarer (and pricier) breeds can be ordered ahead of time and picked up from the shop. The staff is an excellent resource for conflicted buyers, ready to recommend a neighborhood groomer or help you choose between two brands of pet food. Bring your best friend by the counter on the way out for a complimentary snack.