Take in one of San Francisco’s most iconic neighborhoods by eating and shopping your way through these historic San Francisco blocks.
Even though North Beach is considered home to the city’s largest Italian-American cultural hub, it’s known to be made up of a mosaic of communities. And, those communities have lots of stories to tell. Listen closely while walking on these well-worn sidewalks, and you’ll hear the jazz stories of the Golden Age of Broadway and poetry recited by the original Beatniks; and then stir to the staccatos and serenades from newly landed Italian immigrants. This magical neighborhood was and still is made for shopping and strolling, sipping a cappuccino at an outdoor café or dining and dancing after dark. It’s diverse options are almost as vibrant as the people who live here and call it their home.
I Want to Go Where the Cool Kids Go
Unicorn businesses like Tony’s Pizza and Tupelo successfully attract an equal number of locals and tourists, which is a testament to their universal appeal. But those aren’t the only ones…
Tony's Pizza Napoletana is_dup
Classic Pizza
- vegan
- love
- busy
- simple
Belle Cora
Belle Cora is a bistro and bar for delicious American food, brunch, and drinks in a warm, fun, chill space with front patio seats for the perfect relaxing atmosphere to enjoy good eats and good company.
- boutique
- brunch
- creative
- outdoors
Tosca Cafe
Chef Nancy Oakes, restaurateur Anna Weinberg and creative director Ken Fulk have joined forces as the new owners of Tosca, the 100-year-old North Beach bar and restaurant.
- classic
- nostalgic
- retro
- creative
Golden Boy Pizza
Pizza restaurant
- amazing
- authentic
- funny
- beach
Tupelo
- chill
- fun
Mama's on Washington Square
Mama’s on Washington Square was started in 1951, as a family-owned and operated ice cream business. In 1969 the ice cream shop was expanded to a restaurant offering an innovative menu of sandwiches, salads, and omelettes.
- special
- fresh
- lovely
- local
Bimbo's 365 Club
Music Venue
- diverse
- public
- vintage
- art
Al's Attire
Al’s Attire is a vintage and chic clothing store for men’s and women’s clothing and shoes made from authentically curated materials just for your comfort and satisfaction.
- authentic
- creative
- friendly
- historic
Chubby Noodle
Located in the amazing North Beach neighborhood of San Francisco, Chubby Noodle serves approachable and delicious locally sourced Asian comfort food.
- trending
- authentic
- casual
- classic
Buster's Cheesesteak
- amazing
- cool
- together
- popular
Beacon Coffee & Pantry
Beacon Coffee is a coffee shop and specialty market located in the vibrant North Beach neighborhood of San Francisco. Being very close to the incredible Lombard street and Coit Tower, this spot is a must.
- amazing
- art
- buzzing
- fun
Sotto Mare
Oysteria and Seafood Restaurant
- happy
- fresh
- wild
- local
Caffé Greco
Situated in North Beach, San Francisco’s historic Italian neighborhood, Caffe Greco was founded by owners Hanna and Sandy Suleiman in August 1988.
Caffe Greco is recognized by many, as the most authentic Italian caffe in the city serving the world famous Illy Caffe , award winning homemade tiramisu, cannoli, and gelato.
Caffe Greco’s commitment to high quality, impeccable service and friendly atmosphere, will continue to serve as a model of excellence, success and pride.
- cute
- quiet
- local
- historic
If Gastronomy and Fine Art Got Married and Had a Baby
Follow the scents of melted chocolate from Z Cioccolato, fresh-baked focaccia from Liguria Bakery and handmade gelato from Lush; then onwards to checking out some great places to take in all forms of art!
Z. Cioccolato
Fudge
- amazing
- colorful
- cool
- creative
Liguria Bakery
Liguria Bakery, an excellent and delicious bakery serving authentic treats to the public, is a wonderful spot to enjoy friendly service, amazing food, and delightful drinks. They also offer takeout, vegan options, vegetarian options, and a quiet ambiance.
- airy
- creative
- friendly
- healthy
Lush Gelato
Lush Gelato carries unique, amazing flavors that are a part of an always-changing lineup of 12 flavors from the multitude of Murtagh’s recipe book. In-store flavors – made from organic ingredients whenever possible – include cardamom, dulce de leche, strawberry, and lemon.
- amazing
- authentic
- cool
- creative
Little Vine
Little Vine is a modern specialty shop offering local and artisanal grocery items perfect for a nice at-home snack or for hosting a party. There delicious and delightful goods include cheeses, charcuteries, and wine.
- peaceful
- artisanal
- boutique
- creative
Lola
Lola carries some fun, unique, and eclectic items that will make you feel so happy and loved. This store is perfect to brighten your day, have a good laugh, and form a new memory.
- belonging
- cute
- dreamy
- friendly
Modern Eden Gallery
Modern Eden Gallery was founded in 2010 and is located in San Francisco, CA. The gallery presents monthly exhibitions of both established and emerging artists whose work will inspire you and leave you in awe.
- modern
- authentic
- classic
- inspired
Angel's Flowers by Amy
They are centrally located in the amazing North Beach district of San Francisco. Not sure what to get? Looking for a rare plant? Give them a call or stop by their adorable shop and they’’ll have exactly what you’re looking for at a reasonable price in a beautiful assortment.
- amazing
- beautiful
- botanical
- creative
Paul Thiebaud Gallery id_dup is_dup is_dup
Paul Thiebaud Gallery offers a wide selection of artworks by leading artists. Explore upcoming exhibitions, events, and art fairs at Paul Thiebaud Gallery to witness some of the best art you can find in San Francisco.
- modern
- minimalist
- amazing
- beautiful
Macchiarini Jewelry
Macchiarini Creative Design Jewelry and sculpture is a San Francisco Legacy business started in 1948 which spans three generations, two centuries and 68 years. They are the oldest continuous design house production studio and gallery for modernist metal arts in the United States.
- hidden-gem
- local
- modern
- warm
Petite Monstera
Best buds DJ and Stephen, fitness gurus and North Beach icons, opened the doors to Petite Monstera in 2020. Stop by to see their selection, pick up a book from their eclectic library, make fun of DJ, or just say hello. They’re excited to see you soon.
- botanical
- dreamy
- natural
- playful
Beatniks Bending the Rules
Many of these businesses have been around long enough to have catered to the neighborhood’s original Beatniks. Drop in on some of these spots like City Lights Bookstore or Vesuvio Café, and you might feel the urge to recite Gingsberg.
City Lights
A literary meeting place since 1953, City Lights is a landmark general bookstore, internationally known for its expert selection of books and for its commitment to free intellectual inquiry. Here you can check out our events calendar, browse a selection of featured books, new releases, and recommended titles from the City Lights staff, sign up to receive City Lights newsletters, and learn a bit of the history of City Lights.
- literary
- radical
- beatnik
- quiet
Vesuvio Cafe
This world-renowned San Francisco saloon located in North Beach just across from the infamous City Lights Bookstore, was first established in 1948 and remains an historical monument to jazz, poetry, art and the good life of the Beat Generation.
- dive
- favorite
- drinks
- beach
Caffe Trieste
- amazing
- authentic
- cool
- outdoors
Public Barber Salon
Located in North Beach and The Tenderloin neighborhoods of San Francisco, Public Barber Salon provides a high-end hair salon service at an affordable price to the public.
- amazing
- beautiful
- cool
- together
Betty Lou's
Betty Lou’s carries the most fresh, delicious, and amazing seafood in town. They are also known for their friendly service and several bright flags at the front.
- love
- busy
- simple
- popular
Fior D'Italia
- upscale
Specs' Twelve Adler Museum Cafe
Bar
- creative
- authentic
- chill
- eclectic
Sam's Burgers
Sam’s Burgers is a classic burger spot serving up several delicious American foods like wings, nuggets, fries, and, of course, burgers!
- classic
- delightful
- friendly
- fun
The Saloon
Oldest Bar
- drinks
- rebel
- energy
- jazzy
The Beat Museum
The Beat Museum is dedicated to spreading the spirit of the beat generation – tolerance, compassion, and having the courage to live your individual truth. The Beat Museum is home to an extensive collection of Beat memorabilia, including original manuscripts, rare books, letters, personal effects, and cultural ephemera.
- cool
- historic
- inspired
- lit
Maggie McGarry's
Known as the North Beach prize place for eating, Maggie McGarry’s serves up the best eats with the friendliest service for those who happen upon their happy, amazing atmosphere.
- amazing
- chill
- classic
- creative
Ristorante Ideale
Italian Food & Bar
- refreshing
- classic
- creative
- traditional
Original Joe's
Italian restaurant
- original
- special
- modern
- mid-century
Taking Care of Business While Still Having Fun
Shopping for clothes, plants and home and garden supplies never felt so urbane as when running errands in North Beach. After those errands, reward yourself with stellar seafood at Portofino, a killer sub from Italian Homemade or a deep-dish pie at Capo’s.
Portofino
A traditional, intimate dining experience, Portofino offers excellent seafood with a retro vibe which includes chowder, oysters, and rotating dinner specials on their fantastic menu.
- hidden-gem
- beautiful
- creative
- authentic
The Italian Homemade Company
The Italian Homemade Company serves their customers authentic Italian dishes alongside delicious drinks. Bring good company and a sizeable appetite for the best experience.
- amazing
- authentic
- drinks
- park
Capo's
Italian Restaurant
- airy
- cool
- heritage
- oldschool
Freewheeling
As a retro boutique in North Beach, Freewheeling is the new up-and-comer in boutique women’s clothing, making new, unique designs available to those who decide to stop by and enjoy their experience.
- boho
- friendly
- hipster
- hip
Mo's Grill
Mo’s Grill makes food of the highest quality with the best, most vibrant flavors including bomb burgers, fantastic fries, and delightful drinks just for you.
- amazing
- drinks
- together
- delightful
Sodini's
Come and experience authentic Italian food in a cozy, warm setting. Come join the family at Sodini’s. After all, you are Sempre In Famiglia!
Sodini’s Trattoria was established in the early 1990s. The Sodini brothers, Mark and Peter, bought and rebranded an already famous North Beach restaurant that had been in place for 85 years. That business was previously called “Green Valley Restaurant”. They took it upon themselves to keep the “Green Valley Restaurant” sign on the building, as it had been a North Beach staple point for so long.
- family
- authentic
- patio
- vibe
Cole Hardware
From paint supplies to locksmith services, Cole Hardware has everything you need for your property. Plus, they even have same day delivery!
- shop
- colorful
- community
- creative
Il Cilentano
Il Cilentano features floor-to-ceiling windows with a cozy Italian venue and atmosphere that provides authentically made pizzas, pastas, and desserts to their customers.
- amazing
- authentic
- beautiful
- tasty
15 Romolo
“Located up a steep alley on Strip Club row, 15 Romolo rewards lucky wanderers with superbly crafted cocktails served by well-versed bartenders. Classy wooden barstools accommodate drinkers, while comfortable booths serve weekend diners because — if you haven’t heard — the brunch menu, featuring tofu báhn mì vie and bone marrow fritters, garners as much praise as the drinks.” — Michelle No, Thrillist
- quiet
- brunch
- casual
- chill
Mr. Bing's
Classic Dive
- chill
- social
- creative
- relaxing
Class Acts of North Beach
Molinari, a fourth-generation Italian deli, defines the neighborhood’s Italian-American vibe and all these businesses follow suit. While visitors can pack these narrow spaces, everyone is reverent and in good spirits to enjoy the rich historical environment they’re in.
Molinari Delicatessen
Since 1896, Molinari has been providing the public with delicious Italian style dry fermented sausages made in San Francisco. This is a must for all North Beach visits.
- special
- fresh
- public
- oldschool
Church Key
Located in North Beach, San Francisco, Church Key is an intimate craft beer bar focused on local and innovative rotating taps curated just for your enjoyment.
- hidden-gem
- casual
- chill
- classic
Baonecci
Baonecci, North Beach’s best pizzeria, will leave you smiling and full with its incredible service and amazing eats for you and your friends.
- amazing
- authentic
- together
- beach
Tommaso's
Welcome to Tommaso’s! San Francisco’s #1 destination for pizzas, pastas and Italian specialities! Celebrating over 80 years in San Francisco’s North Beach, Tommaso’s is the best place for you to spend time with good friends and good food.
- amazing
- authentic
- together
- delightful
Il Casaro
Il Casaro Pizzeria & Mozzarella Bar which opened it’s first location in San Francisco’s historic Italian district of North Beach in March of 2014 , Opened it’s second location San Francisco’s lively Castro District June of 2019 , has redefined quality pizza for the neighborhood. Our philosophy stems from a simple Italian reality that pizza should always be affordable and accessible for everybody and anybody.
- family
- beautiful
- tasty
- inspired
The Nature Stop
Known as a small and convenient grocery store on Grant Street, The Nature Stop is for everyone to pick up the necessary items coupled with some new, unique finds that you cannot get anywhere else.
- amazing
- delightful
- joyful
- local
Giovanni Italian Specialties
Giovanni Italian Specialties is a petite neighborhood market for you to acquire the best, most delicious Italian ingredients, cookware, charcuterie, and grab and go eats.
- authentic
- cultural
- creative
- friendly
Don Pisto's
Don Pisto’s is an authentic Tex-Mex restaurant in North Beach which serves the best food of this category to their consumers with incredibly friendly service.
- vegan
- wild
- favorite
- together
Little City Market
Little City Market sells specialty goods to their customers for a reasonable price and to provide means to create the best food out there. Try their curated meats when you stop by, as this is one of their best sections of eats.
- delicious
- creative
- delightful
- dramatic
Hole in the Wall Café
Hole in the Wall Café is a Kenyan drip coffee spot with friendly service and several amenities for your best experience like delivery and outdoor seating.
- popular
- buzzing
- chill
- classic
American Bites
American Bites is an authentic spot serving up the best American eats to their loyal customers through their super friendly service.
- creative
- authentic
- friendly
- fun
Pat's Café
Pat’s Cafe is a charming little North Beach restaurant in the heart of San Francisco. They serve awesome healthy, hearty, home-style American food to the public.
- hearty
- public
- brunch
- favorite
Sotto Casa
Sotto Casa serves up authentic Italian food with their unique and traditional recipes like their famous fresh and delicious olive oil garnish. Stop by for their friendly service and inspired cuisine.
- amazing
- authentic
- quiet
- inspired
