Not only Basil designs great bags and outfits, but he is also very patient when picky Italian customers like me ask for customization! Great Basil! read more

I was never a bag person. The only ones I had were those gifted to me because friend(s) didn't want to see me carrying my items in a paper &/or plastic bag. I had known the owner years ago, when based in NYC. Googling past acquaintances to see what they were up to, I came across Basil and these beautiful bags, I was hooked. They are well designed, well made. They reach out to the senses: they look good, feel good and smell good. I have at least 5 of his bags which get compliments wherever I go. Thanks for the artistry and craftsmanship Basil. M read more

We were unable to get any sort of service at this store, and so we left without making a purchase and will not be back. My wife uses a wheelchair for her mobility. As this store is not wheelchair accessible, due to a step too tall for any mobility device, she stayed just outside the doorway as I entered with the goal of showing her bag after bag, which is what we usually do in such a circumstance. Although it's a very small store, the owner completely ignored us, didn't bother to offer help my partner at all, and made it very clear our presence was not welcome. The bags themselves are leather, boxy, very basic in appearance, and breathtakingly expensive. Even though we *could* afford such a bag, neither my wife nor I could see anything about these bags that offered any insight into why they were so expensive. And the dismissive demeanor of the owner made us both feel unwelcome. In a neighborhood with so many other stores that carry handmade bags and purses, I'm amazed that this store continues to stay in business. I won't be back. read more

This talented local craftsman makes my favorite evening clutches (with sassy leather tassels) and I always get compliments on the larger handmade leather bags I own as well. His bags come in beautiful colors with the touch of the artisan, and they get a wonderful patina as they soften and age. His new shop is full of unique pieces! Follow his Instagram to see (and snag) his latest one-of-a-kind creations. @basilracuk read more

Artistic craftsmanship meets function in Basil's work. His bags are simply beautiful - classic and clean lines, luxurious leathers and intentionality in the details of each design. I have bought off the website, from the shop and even worked with Basil himself to custom create a bag that is exactly what I needed. Each piece stands the test of time and wears beautifully. I highly recommend visiting Basil's shop if you're in San Francisco, visiting his website if you're not local or calling the shop to speak with him directly and create the bag of your dreams! It's rare these days that a customer has an opportunity to directly work with an artist of Basil's caliber! read more

Whether you are visiting San Francisco or live here you owe it to yourself to visit Basil Racuk on Union Street. His bags are unique hand crafted and simply gorgeous. A true San Francisco native, his story is just as compelling as his wares. I have purchased 2 leather paper bags over the years and always receive compliments. read more

If you're looking for the finest hand-made leather goods, check out Basil Racuk! I discovered Basil Racuk and his gorgeous leather bags a couple of years ago on his website. After seeing that his studio was here in the Bay Area I contacted him to inquire if it would be possible to visit him to see his bags in person. What an incredible artisan he is. While I found lovely bags in the studio already made, I took Basil up on his offer to create one to meet my specifications. I was looking for a briefcase that would hold all of my work while, at the same time, be feminine in style and pass for a beautiful pocket book. I was delighted with the outcome and have been using my bag for the past two years. I am constantly receiving compliments on the bag and am quick to point out the Basil Racuk name on the inside and let others know where to find one for themselves. That also gives me a chance to show the gorgeous lining of the bag. I was delighted to see that Basil opened a store in San Francisco. He still hand makes everything in his studio at the store. I've purchased beautiful bags for friends and family and, yes, a few more for myself in the last year. I love the layout of the shop and the staff is warm, welcoming, and very knowledgeable. I highly recommend Basil Racuk as a place to stop in when you're in the MIssion. Or make a special trip. He's worth it. the website is nice yet the smell and feel of the bags is worth the trip. read more

Basil created a beautiful custom purse for me! He was super easy to work with, was open to my feedback and produced a beautiful small purse to hold my phone, key, etc. A great alternative to my super ridiculous fanny pack! Thanks Basil! read more

An epic experience with a very talented designer. No pressure. Fun experience. If you are a serious client, the visit to the design room/workshop is an event in itself. Gorgeous hides and hand-crafted details. Basil does carry a few pre-made items for easy purchase - great gift ideas! read more

Needed a new work bag after my conference freebie died it's last death. I thought I'd treat myself and upgrade my look, so I started to research. I randomly happened upon Basil Racuk, and was never looked back. The owner presented me with a huge number of options in terms of colors, styles and features, but in a way that was not overwhelming. I was also able to add a few custom extras, especially the made-to-measure strap, which made me completely happy with my purchase. Turn around time was a little short of a month--which is to be expected for custom work--and the price was fair. Now I have a great looking bag I love! Thank you Basil!!! read more

Basil is the best craftsman. There is nothing like his leather paper bag totes. I purchased one for my sister's b'day that actually looks like a paper bag. His other bags are likewise extraordinary. So is he:) Love his store in Noe Valley, great location. read more

While I did not go looking to buy a handmade leather bag, I could not resist Basil's creations when I walked into the Basil Racuk Shop. Each bag is handmade, unique, and tells a story. If you're in the Mission, don't miss this adorable gem of a store. read more

My favorite bags. I now own 2 metallic paper bags and a suede clutch. Best purchases ever! I've had both my bags for 4 years and they're still shiny and durable. I've folded them multiple times, carried groceries, lugged my laptop around in them, and theyll still be good for another 20 years. Basil himself is so helpful and a joy to meet- he's part of the whole experience. When I first got my bags the design didnt come with an inside pocket. I brought both of them in a month or 2 ago and he sewed them in right there on the spot. Such great service even for a one man show. Supporting local artisan has never been easier. read more

Basil's gorgeous leather pieces are works of art. I have a beautiful bag plus a credit card/business card holder. Everywhere I go people comment on how beautiful my bag is. I fell in love with his work a number of years ago when he had a shop in Berkeley/Oakland. Love the beautiful leather even more now that I own a couple of pieces!!! read more

Basil Racuk-brand and designer-is as good as it gets. Not only are his leather pieces individual works of art, but his presence as an artist and designer, with his on-locations studio, makes for an experience that is much more than just shopping. His brand speaks to the San Francisco lifestyle which everyone craves to be apart of. As a proud owner of his "Paper Bag", I can take part in his vision, which revolves around the beauty and detail of the locally-sourced, hand-crafted object. I have received countless compliments and couldn't be happier with the durability and patina the bag has developed over time. Highly recommend stopping by his store located in the Mission on 18th and Valencia! read more

My girlfriend Shelley and I don't visit San Francisco without seeing Basil. After drooling over his fantastic products the first time we stopped, we made it a reality by purchasing one for her last time we were there. (My girlfriend may have a bit of a purse problem, and her Basil tote is her fave!) We were looking at other bags and he didn't hesitate to bring out prototypes that he made on site. How cool is that? Post sale support has been stellar, and we are going to be making another trip soon to go see him. There may be a messenger bag in my future from him! Thanks Basil!!! read more

Having Basil custom make a handbag for me was SUCH a fantastic experience. We chose everything together - the skins, the lining (vintage kimono silk), the size, the shape. The finished product is beyond my dreams! I'm simply delighted. Basil has a fantastic eye and he's such a great designer. If you're obsessed with leather goods and have always wanted to create something, he's the perfect choice! read more

Just bought my second bag. Love the elegant and simple designs. The quality of the leather is amazing. It's great to support a local business as well read more

I love going into Basil's store. It's impeccably curated with his beautifully hand crafted bags and an ever changing collection of great accessories. I own five of his lovely bags, and they are made from the upmost quality leather and care. They are very functional yet super stylish. And they get better with age! read more

Love his bags!!! Came for a unique wristlets. Will be back again for a fabulous bag!! Wonderful service and great craftsmanship.

I stumbled into Basil Racuk while shopping in the Mission last weekend and fell in love. While I couldn't afford everything in his shop, I did leave with a few of his smaller pieces and plan on checking out his online store for Father's Day. Beautiful leather & love the fact that everything is sourced in America/made in his shop. read more

I bought a soft briefcase from Basil in a fantastic dark brown leather and absolutely love it. I take it everywhere and get compliments on it all the time. I also have the paperbag purse in grey suede which is my weekend go to...love it as well! read more