traveldk.com

The owner actually bought Le Barbizon Café in Paris and shipped it over piece by piece. That accounts for the authentic French feel of this back-alley bistro-like spot near Union Square, where francophiles rendezvous to imagine themselves on the Left Bank. The food, too, is suitably Gallic, and the waiters appropriately brusque.

A North Beach landmark that must be experienced if you have any interest whatsoever in this quarter’s colorful history – either from the literary and artistic or the Italian points of view. It’s a really great place for a cup of whatever warm liquid you favor, and to just sit and people-watch or dip into one of the city’s free weekly papers.

One of the many Italian cafés – often full of real Italians - lined up along this stretch of Columbus. This one features large windows, usually open, with clientele spilling out onto the sidewalk to eye the stream of passers-by. Good coffee and desserts make it an appealing pit stop until closing time at 2am, when you can head off to the nearby clubs.

Overlooking the small SoMa park favored by the younger, slacker digital set, you can while away an hour or two just taking in the relaxed setting in the knowledge that you’re in a certifiably hip locale. French food and waiters support the Parisian illusion to the best of their ability.

Café, bar, performance space, and, yes, laundromat, it’s got everything the young apartment dwellers who live in this industrial SoMa neighborhood need. Frequented by lesbians, gays, and straights – in short, typical San Franciscans of the edgier sort. There’s also a menu composed of solid international standards, such as a great Greek salad, tofu stir-fry, and chicken quesadilla.

This enclave features live acoustic music on Thursday night and Saturday afternoon. Otherwise, it’s a cheap place to grab a bite. Good coffee, beer on tap, and vegetarian dishes.

Gay-central, this place, with patio seating and cozy indoor tables, has been an institution for decades.

This Middle Eastern snack joint is great for grabbing a bag of falafel, and a stack of pitta bread, then heading to Golden Gate Park for a picnic.

The galette refers to the buckwheat crêpes from Brittany. A very Gallic venue – sip a Belgian brew and people-watch.

Regulars nurse micro-brewed beers or their favorite coffee, and indulge in great pastries.