Overview
Vesuvio Cafe is a historic North Beach landmark and one of San Francisco's oldest and most famous cafes. Known for its bohemian atmosphere and proximity to City Lights Bookstore, it has been a gathering place for artists, poets, and beatniks since the 1950s.
A cultural icon in San Francisco, Vesuvio Cafe has been a hub for the Beat Generation and continues to be a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Location
Address
255 Columbus Ave., San Francisco, California
Neighborhood: North Beach
Coordinates
37.799200, -122.420300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April to October
Best Time of Day
Afternoon
Best for people watching and enjoying the lively atmosphere
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Pleasant and mild
- • Outdoor seating
- • Spring specials
summer
Warm and sunny
- • Extended hours
- • Outdoor seating
autumn
Cool and crisp
- • Fall specials
- • Outdoor seating
winter
Cool and rainy
- • Holiday decorations
- • Warm drinks
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Cash preferred
- No reservations
- Limited seating
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: None
- • Can be smoky
- • Crowded
Medical facilities: First aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable and stylish, Comfortable shoes, Inappropriate attire
Booking Tips
- • Not applicable (first-come, first-served)
- • N/A
- • N/A
- • N/A
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
N/A
Size: N/A
Features: Not specified
Platforms: Not specified
WiFi Zones: Available
Charging Stations: Not available
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Distance: 22 km
Travel Time: 30-45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 3 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic significance and vibrant atmosphere
Historical Significance: A gathering place for the Beat Generation and local artists
Insider Tips
- Best time to visit is early afternoon
- Try the homemade pasta
- Ask about special events
Local Recommendations
- • Visit nearby City Lights Bookstore
- • Try the espresso
- • Ask about local history
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, Italian
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Front patio
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Capture the historic sign and surrounding area
Result: Iconic Vesuvio Cafe shot
Interior
Best Time: Any time
Tips: Capture the vintage decor and lively atmosphere
Result: Authentic cafe experience
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
City Lights Bookstore
Distance: 50m
Walking: 1 min
Type: Bookstore
Coit Tower
Distance: 500m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Landmark
Washington Square Park
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Park
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Try the espresso"
- "Visit early to avoid crowds"
- "Great people watching spot"
Contact Information
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Available Tours
4
Rating
4.4 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$0 (free entry)