Café Claude

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.

• 7 Claude Lane between Grant & Kearny, Sutter & Bush

• 415 392 3505

• Dis. access

Caffè Trieste

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 sit and people-watch, or dip into one of the city’s free weekly papers (see Caffè Trieste).

Dolores Park Café

Across the street from historic Mission Dolores, this funky neighborhood café has it all – great views of Dolores Park, filling breakfast and lunch fare, home-made smoothies, freshly baked pastries, and a cool spot to people-watch in the heart of the Mission district. Don’t miss the live music on Friday nights.

• 501 Dolores St

• 415 621 2936

• Dis. access

South Park Café

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.

• 108 South Park St between 2nd & 3rd

• 415 495 7275

• Dis. access

Brainwash

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 cobb salad, tofu stir-fry, and chicken quesadilla.

• 1122 Folsom St at 7th

• 415 861 3663

• Dis. access

Atlas Café

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

• 3049 20th St at Alabama

• 415 648 1047

• Dis. access

Café Flore

Gay-central, this place, with patio seating and cozy indoor tables, is an institution (see Café Flore).

• 2298 Market St at Noe

• 415 621 8579

• Dis. access

Zuni Café

Go for the legendary hamburger or the delectable brick oven-roasted chicken at this eatery, popular for three decades.

• 1658 Market St

• 415 552 2522

• Closed Mon

• Dis. access

Blue Danube

Popular with locals, this cozy café serves up great coffee, healthy smoothies, hearty sandwiches, and cool atmosphere.

• 306 Clement St

• 415 221 9041

• Dis. access

Papa Toby’s Revolution Café and Artbar

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

• 3248 22nd St at Bartlett

• 415 642 0474