Quintessential Beat Hangout and other San Francisco, CA Nightlife Tips

Nightlife Spot: Vesuvio Cafe

For those of you who are throwbacks to the beatnik era, you'll love this place - its history AND location.

The Vesuvio has been around since the early '50s, reknown as "the" Beat hangout. To this day it still attracts an off-color, artsy crowd. The ambience is cozy and eclectic, with small tables and hanging lamps and numerous framed photos, paintings, and other objets-de-art on the walls.

It's got two floors, with the second offering a nice balcony view overlooking the first floor as well as outside toward Jack Kerouac Alley. (You can't help but notice his mural-painted face looking back at you - try that after a few afternoon Campari's!)

The Vesuvio is known for having its night time personality, but I've only been there in the afternoons. It's a relaxing place to read (especially since it's right next to City Lights Bookstore), or catch up with a friend.

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Theme: People Watching
Dress Code: Are you kidding? Beat all the way, baby....
Phone: 415-362-3370
Address: 255 Columbus Avenue (Corner of Jack Kerouac Alley)
Directions: Just south of Broadway, in the North Beach area
Website: http://www.vesuvio.com