Vesuvio Cafe: A Historic Gem in San Francisco's Chinatown
Discover the charm of Vesuvio Cafe in San Francisco's Chinatown, a historic cocktail bar with a rich artistic legacy and unique drink offerings.
Vesuvio Cafe is not just a bar; it is a storied establishment located in the lively neighborhood of Chinatown in San Francisco. This iconic cocktail bar opened its doors in 1937, quickly becoming a favorite haunt for artists, writers, and locals alike. The intimate atmosphere is enhanced by the eclectic decor, featuring vibrant murals and a charming interior that beckons you to stay awhile. As you step inside, you can almost feel the artistic spirit that has pervaded this place for decades, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to soak up some local history along with their drink. The menu at Vesuvio offers a delightful array of cocktails that are as unique as the venue itself. Whether you are in the mood for a classic drink or something with a modern twist, the skilled bartenders are sure to impress. The lounge vibe makes it an ideal spot for unwinding after a day of sightseeing, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and socializing. Guests can enjoy their drinks in the cozy indoor setting or on the outdoor patio, where the lively streets of Chinatown serve as a vibrant backdrop. For tourists, Vesuvio Cafe serves as a cultural touchstone, reflecting the diverse spirit of San Francisco. It’s an ideal place to mingle with locals, share stories, and perhaps even catch live music or poetry readings that occasionally grace the venue. Whether you're an art aficionado, a cocktail enthusiast, or simply looking to enjoy a unique slice of San Francisco’s nightlife, Vesuvio Cafe promises an experience that is both enriching and enjoyable.
Local tips
- Visit during happy hour for the best deals on cocktails and appetizers.
- Try to grab a seat on the patio for a lively street view of Chinatown.
- Check the schedule for live music or events to enhance your experience.
- Don't miss out on their unique cocktail specials that change seasonally.
- Take a moment to appreciate the artwork and decor that reflects the bar's rich history.
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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BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)
If you are at the Downtown Berkeley BART station, take the BART train toward San Francisco/Daly City. Get off at the Montgomery St. station. From there, exit the station and walk southeast on Montgomery St. towards Market St. Turn left onto Market St., then walk for about 0.2 miles until you reach the Embarcadero. Transfer to the MUNI F-Line streetcar, heading towards Fisherman’s Wharf. Get off at the stop at Bay St & Taylor St. From there, walk 0.2 miles west on Bay St until you reach Columbus Ave, then turn left. Vesuvio Cafe will be on your right at 255 Columbus Ave.
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Bus
From the UC Berkeley campus, walk to the nearest bus stop on Telegraph Ave. Take the AC Transit Bus Line 51B towards San Francisco. Get off at the stop at 5th St & Mission St in San Francisco. Walk one block to the Montgomery St. BART station and follow the previous directions from there to get to Vesuvio Cafe at 255 Columbus Ave.
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Walking
If you are already in San Francisco near Chinatown, navigate to Columbus Ave. Walk towards the west on Clay St until you reach Grant Ave. Turn right onto Grant Ave, heading north, then turn left onto Columbus Ave. Continue walking for about 0.3 miles. Vesuvio Cafe will be on your left at 255 Columbus Ave.
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Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
If you prefer a rideshare option, open your Uber or Lyft app and set your destination to 'Vesuvio Cafe, 255 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133'. The app will provide you with the best pickup location and directions to the cafe. Make sure to check the estimated arrival time.
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