Vesuvio Cafe: A Bohemian Landmark
Experience the bohemian soul of San Francisco at Vesuvio Cafe, a historic North Beach bar and literary landmark, where the Beat Generation's spirit lives on.
Vesuvio Cafe, located at 255 Columbus Avenue, stands as a cherished San Francisco institution, embodying the city's rich cultural heritage and enduring bohemian spirit. Established in 1948 by Henri Lenoir, an art-loving eccentric, Vesuvio quickly became a sanctuary for writers, poets, artists, and creative individuals seeking inspiration. Its location, across Jack Kerouac Alley from City Lights Bookstore, is integral to its identity. The cafe's interior exudes a captivating ambiance, adorned with artwork, photographs, and vintage paraphernalia that tell stories of its rich past. Tiffany lamps cast a warm glow, while a quirky cat statue adds a touch of whimsy. The long wooden bar invites patrons to gather and share stories, and a second-story balcony offers a unique perspective of the lively scene below. Vesuvio's history is deeply intertwined with the Beat Generation; legendary figures like Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Lawrence Ferlinghetti, and Neal Cassady were frequent patrons. The alley next to the bar was renamed Jack Kerouac Alley in 1988, solidifying the cafe's connection to the Beat movement. Today, Vesuvio remains a vibrant and active bar, attracting a diverse clientele of locals, tourists, artists, writers, and anyone seeking a taste of San Francisco's unique culture. It offers a full range of alcoholic beverages, including specialty cocktails, and encourages patrons to bring their own food, adding to its laid-back atmosphere. Visiting Vesuvio is an immersion into the heart and soul of North Beach, a chance to connect with the spirit of the Beat Generation and celebrate the power of art and literature.
Local tips
- Visit during off-peak hours (weekdays or early evenings) to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the atmosphere.
- Explore Jack Kerouac Alley, located right outside, for a dose of literary history and artistic inspiration.
- Check out the artwork and memorabilia on the walls; each piece tells a story about Vesuvio's rich past.
- Pair your visit with a trip to City Lights Bookstore across the alley for a complete Beat Generation experience.
A brief summary to Vesuvio Cafe
- 255 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, Chinatown, California, 94133, US
- +1415-362-3370
- Visit website
- Monday 11 am-1 am
- Tuesday 11 am-1 am
- Wednesday 11 am-1 am
- Thursday 11 am-1 am
- Friday 11 am-2 am
- Saturday 11 am-2 am
- Sunday 11 am-1 am
Getting There
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Walking
If you are already in the North Beach neighborhood, Vesuvio Cafe is easily accessible on foot. From City Lights Bookstore, simply cross Jack Kerouac Alley to Vesuvio Cafe. If you're coming from Washington Square Park, walk southwest on Columbus Avenue for about 5 minutes.
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Public Transport
If arriving via BART or Muni to the Montgomery Station, transfer to the 8, 8AX, 30, or 45 bus heading north. Get off at Columbus Avenue and Broadway. Vesuvio Cafe is a short walk from there, located at 255 Columbus Ave, on the corner of Columbus and Jack Kerouac Alley. A single ride on Muni costs $2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Request a taxi or ride-share to 255 Columbus Avenue, San Francisco. Be aware that traffic in North Beach can be congested, especially during peak hours. From Fisherman's Wharf, a taxi ride to Vesuvio Cafe would cost approximately $15-$20, depending on traffic. Ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft are also readily available.
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Driving
Driving directly to Vesuvio can be challenging due to limited parking. The nearest public parking is the North Beach Garage at 735 Vallejo St, about a 5-minute walk away. Hourly rates typically range from $4 to $6, with daily maximums around $35. Street parking is extremely limited and metered, with varying time restrictions and rates. Be sure to read signs carefully to avoid tickets.
Landmarks nearby to Vesuvio Cafe
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Jazz Mural
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Sentinel Building
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Chinatown Hero's Mural
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Jackson Square Historic District
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743 Washington St
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Jackson Square
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Chinatown Flags Street
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California Historical Landmark 192: Site of the Jenny Lind Theatre and San Francisco City Hall
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Shortest Street in California
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Stockton St
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Transamerica Pyramid
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Chinatown San Francisco
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751 Commercial St
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California Historical Landmark 81: Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery
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San Francisco Historical Society