Vesuvio Cafe is a two-story bar at 255 Columbus Avenue in San Francisco’s North Beach, across Jack Kerouac Alley from City Lights Bookstore. Open since 1948, it became a gathering place for Beat Generation writers including Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg. Today, local art, photographs and Beat-era memorabilia fill the rooms, and the mix of neighborhood regulars and visitors gives the bar plenty to watch. Order a beer, margarita or martini, then look for a seat upstairs or at the downstairs bar.
A bar with Beat Generation ties
Vesuvio opened in 1948 and became a regular stop for Beat Generation writers and artists. Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Neal Cassady and Lawrence Ferlinghetti are among the names linked to the bar. Its place in North Beach literary history is part of the setting: you can still order a drink in a room lined with photographs and reminders of the writers and artists associated with the area.
The bar sits across Jack Kerouac Alley from City Lights Bookstore. The alley connects the two landmarks, with literary sayings set into its pavement and murals on its walls. It makes an easy link between a bookstore visit and a drink at Vesuvio.
Art, seating and the street outside
The two floors have different moods. The downstairs bar puts you among the main flow of people, with neighborhood regulars and visitors sharing the room. Upstairs, seating and balcony views give you a place to talk away from the busiest part of the bar. The rooms are filled with local art, photographs and Beat-era memorabilia, so there is plenty to look at while you sit.
The alley beside the bar has seating and murals, adding another place to pause. The location also puts you at the junction of Columbus Avenue and Broadway, a useful spot for watching North Beach go by.
What to order
The drink menu includes beer and classic cocktails such as margaritas and martinis. The setting suits a simple drink and a conversation, whether you stop in before exploring more of San Francisco or stay to take in the art and crowd. Outside food is allowed, so you can bring a snack if you plan to linger.
Vesuvio draws a mix of locals and tourists, and the room can get crowded, especially on weekends. A weekday visit gives you a better chance of finding a less busy table or seat. If the downstairs bar is full, look upstairs for another place to sit.
FAQ
Where is Vesuvio Cafe?
It is at 255 Columbus Avenue in North Beach, across Jack Kerouac Alley from City Lights Bookstore.
What is Vesuvio Cafe known for?
The bar opened in 1948 and is associated with Beat Generation writers including Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg. Its rooms display local art, photographs and Beat-era memorabilia.
What can you order at Vesuvio Cafe?
The menu includes beer, margaritas and martinis.
Is outside food allowed?
Yes. You can bring your own food to have with your drink.
