In the center of Union Square is an outdoor restaurant cafe called Il Caffe, serving handmade artisan Italian pastries, sandwiches, house roasted specialty coffee drinks. There is even beer and wine available, so even if its just for a drink, one can sit and enjoy the ambiance of San Francisco. On Powell Street, which borders Union Square, is the historic Westin St. Francis Hotel. There are various restaurants, bar, and lounges located within, as well as a number of shops. High Tea is also offered in the Oak Room and is a fulfilling way to spend the afternoon with good company.

The Mocca and Bistro 69 are two excellent cafes down Maiden Lane right off Union Square. The Mocca is open 8am-6pm Mon-Fri and 8:30am-4pm Sat&Sun. The Bistro 69 is open Mon-Sat 8am-5pm. Inside of both locations are pretty small but big enough for most wheelchairs, but the outside has all the space you need with nice tables under umbrellas.