Best Place to Shop for Baby Gear

In a city where there are more places to buy accessories for dogs than there are for babies, the Right Start is a godsend. Yes, it's a chain, but it doesn't act like one. Located in tony Presidio Heights, the Right Start carries the latest and greatest stuff in the baby racket (which is akin to the wedding racket, only with more guilt): Peg Perego, Combi, Medela, Baby Bjorn, etc. The place has everything you need for feeding, bathing, strolling, and stimulating wee ones. We're particularly awed by the selection of educational tapes, books, and toys for babies and toddlers, and with the array of high-end plastic gizmos to make your home baby-safe. This is also the place for singles invited to the dreaded baby shower. The staff is knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly, and they gift-wrap on the spot. Depending on the crowd, it's possible to walk out with an impressively appropriate gift, wrapped and ready, in less than 15 minutes. The Right Start also has a Web site for online shopping, which is extremely convenient if, for some reason, you haven't waited till the last minute.