NORTH BEACH

North Beach harbors Italian flavors and bohemian memories the way Congress harbors anonymous sources. Start with City Lights, the bookshop, publisher and Beat Generation haven that has sold countless copies of Allen Ginsberg’s “Howl” (1956), Jack Kerouac’s “On the Road” (1957) and bookshop co-founder Lawrence Ferlinghetti’s “A Coney Island of the Mind” (1958). Then maybe have a drink next door at Vesuvio. Maybe a second round across the street at Specs’ (both reek of old-school bohemianism). Admire the coppergreen flatiron glory of the 1907 Sentinel Building (owned by Francis Ford Coppola’s family) at Columbus Avenue and Kearny Street — maybe the city’s most elegant building.

Now you might be a little shaky, but don’t miss Coit Tower, where you can admire the witty Depression-era murals and unmatchable views of the city, bay and bridges. It’s $10 per adult, $7 for San Francisco residents.

Hungry? Get a big, messy sandwich at Molinari Delicatessen (established 1896) and eat it in Washington Square. Or get coffee at Caffe Trieste (since 1956), prizeworthy pies at Tony’s Pizza Napoletana on Stockton Street or seafood at

Sodini’s or Sotto Mare on Green Street.

BONUS TIP: The shops and eateries of Chinatown (next to North Beach) suffered deeply through the pandemic, but the stylish China Live restaurant complex stays busy. It’s on Broadway, about 400 feet from City Lights. Two other lively, upscale Chinatown restaurants within an easy walk: Empress by Boon on Grant Avenue and Mister Jiu’s on Waverly Place.