Great Bars and Cafes in SoMa (San Francisco)

24fps

The addiction here is more than just your early dose of caffeine or after work beer. It's the bright, warming personalities working behind the counter that will keep you reeling back in. Claiming the artsy film buff theme, 24fps serves students, professionals, and tourists alike. Adjacent to the Hotel Adante, this cafe offers free Wi-Fi and plenty of comfortable seating space to lounge, work, or play. Beers on tap include Sierra Nevada, Anchor Steam, Fat Tire, Hefeweizen, Heineken, and Miller Lite.

21st Amendment

21st Amendment (affectionately known by locals as "21A"), offers good food, reasonable prices and a generally friendly atmosphere. This large bar/restaurant is a popular after-work destination; needless to say, it can get pretty crowded when the whistle blows, especially on Fridays. If the front is too packed to get a seat, try heading to upstairs seating area, which is a great place to grab a cocktail with a view of the whole interior. Happy hour deals are to be had, and food specialties include the classic '21A Burgers' that are made with Niman Ranch beef and served with hearty fries. In the mornings the place is open from Monday to Sunday at 11.30 am.

The Butler & the Chef Bistro

This authentically French neighborhood oasis provides respite to SoMa professionals in need of breakfasts more pleasurable than a stale danish and lunches more moving than a microwave burrito. The Butler & the Chef offers an elegant menu of salads, pates, quiches, crepes, croissants and more. The sandwiches stand head and shoulders above typical deli fare, all served on freshly baked bread and chock full of specialty meats, luscious veggies and exotic greens. For dessert, enjoy decadent standards like creme brulee or opt for the simple but stunningly good maple-pecan cookie. Beer and wine are available, in addition to a full list of coffee specialties. See website for menu.

Zuppa

Zuppa, the long awaited brainchild of Joseph Manzare of Globe Restaurant is quite popular in this area. The restaurant had opened to rave reviews from epicures and locals alike. Its reasonably priced menu and delectable cuisine tantalizes and certainly lives up to the advanced publicity. Previously home to the Monk, the decor has been subtly altered but the charm has been retained and contributes tremendously to the ambiance.

Town Hall Restaurant

This stylish and vibrant South of Market restaurant, opened by the famous Rosenthal brothers Mitchell and Steven along with Doug Washington has become a favorite hang out among the city's most well known faces. Town Hall Restaurant offers a unique blend of New Orleans and Californian cuisines such as Sautéed Shrimp Étouffée and Smoked Duck and Sweet Potato Enchiladas, complemented by a diverse wine list. The interior is the perfect mixture of comfort and sophistication, with exposed brick and high ceilings, slightly reminiscent of colonial New England. Whether you're a local or just visiting, take a trip to Town Hall.

Mr. Smith's

Mr. Smith's is the ideal place for party animals. This is an obvious favorite among students, especially on Saturdays. Choose from the huge bar and spacious dance floor to spend your evening at this club. The DJs play a mixture of hip-hop, classic and rock music. Just make sure you're not dressed too casually, as this place is stylish and attracts a rather posh crowd. Timings are , Tuesday to Friday from 4.30 pm onwards.

Bacar

If you wish to savor American cuisine in comfort, then Bacar should be your destination. Early morning hunger pangs and late night stomach growls will also be catered to. The menu features items, such as veal osso buco, arugula and shaved reggiano and serrano ham. Eat to the rhythms of jazz, rock or avant garde as there's music Monday through Saturday. There's a Wine Salon too where the huge wine list comprises of about 1,300 European and Californian varietals. So, get ready to host your own wine party and do keep a check on the monthly events organized by Bacar.

Oola

Candle lit chandeliers drop over in some dining spaces while unpretentious light bulbs sling up on the bar. All these personify innovative and bohemian lighting at its best! Meat at Oola is organic and the ingredients used are ocean and farm fresh. An immediate example is the linguine and jumbo white shrimp with arbor chillies, basil and spinach. Among the wines, the robust whites provide the subtlety you fancy. Oola arranges semi private events with prior reservations.

Supperclub

Supperclub brings together a night of dinner, drink, music, art, and performance all in one. Started in Amsterdam, this international sensation has made its way to the City by the Bay. In one evening you can sip on your favorite cocktail while relaxing amongst fluffy pillows, examine funky wall paintings, gasp at circus-style aerial dancers, and savor a dinner perfected just to your liking. A single course meal lasts a minimum of three hours with plenty of entertainment to pass the time. Supperclub also features Le Bar Rouge, a busy bar especially on the weekends with a wide selection of beers, wines and cocktails. La Salle Privee is a smaller sitting area in the club, which features additional art and performance, and is also used as a private dining room.

Bong Su Restaurant & Lounge

The long, narrow hall of Bong Su takes you on a short trip to quaint, lush Vietnam. Beautiful sandstone carvings, wooden tables, Buddha statues, bamboo screens and subdued lighting comprise the decorative elements of the restaurant. Chef Tammy Huynh takes all credit for the well-crafted menu that features carefully modified traditional Vietnamese dishes. Some of the favorites include Empress Rice, Lemongrass Bass and among the desserts, the Banana-stuffed Beignets. The posh bar has a good wine collection. If you are not in the mood for wine, try one of the teas they serve.

Beard Papa's

Walk down Yerba Buena Lane and the cute face of Beard Papa's logo comes across. Venture in and you won't be sorry. The aroma of freshly baked puffs wafts in the shop, tempting you to sample a few of the goodies—Fondant Au Chocolat, cream puffs in green tea and pumpkin flavors, Vanilla Eclair, cheese cake sticks, and more. Organic brews are also available. Call for delivery.

Eight Nightclub & Lounge

Known to be a popular gay club, Eight Lounge & Nightclub is buzzing on Fridays. This SoMa hot spot is known more for its hot bartenders rather than its bar or scheduled events. D.Js set the dance floor on fire with a mix of hip hop, mash and dance tracks and the cocktails add some more heat. Grab a drink and scope out the eye-candy...everyone else is!