Vesuvio Cafe: A Beat Generation Landmark
Experience the bohemian soul of San Francisco at Vesuvio Cafe, a historic North Beach bar and literary landmark.
Vesuvio Cafe, a historic saloon in San Francisco's North Beach, stands as a monument to the Beat Generation. Founded in 1948, it drew in literary icons like Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg. Today, it maintains its bohemian spirit, attracting a diverse crowd of artists, writers, and tourists.
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
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.
- Strike up a conversation with the bartenders or fellow patrons; you never know what interesting stories you might hear.
Getting There
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Walking
Vesuvio Cafe is located at 255 Columbus Avenue, right next to Jack Kerouac Alley. 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. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00, or $2.85 if using a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app. A day pass is available for $5.70.
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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. Taxi fares in San Francisco start at $4.15 for the first 1/5th of a mile, with each additional 1/5th of a mile costing $0.65. There is also a charge of $0.65 for each minute of waiting or traffic delay.
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