Viva la Revolution!

The Revolution Cafe is a perfect place to go on a lazy Saturday or Sunday morning. They'll have some eclectic music playing (when we went, it was folk). Tables strewn outside, with large doors that open up to allow breezes to come in from outside. Besides the eclectic music, there's an eclecit clientele, so also a good spot to people watch. Have a bowl of latte or mocha, and sit back. As for the food, well, it's okay if you go for the sweet stuff (chocolate chip pancakes with banana, for example), but the eggs were flavorless.

At night, a good place to stop for a wine or a beer.

Medjool

On a nice night in SF, this place is one of the best to head to. With a large outdoor deck, you can kick back with a drink or two (good mojitos and an extensive beer & wine list). Plus, they fire up the grill, so you can have a variety of grilled meats and veggie options.

Later, as it cools down, head to the mezzanine level where you can have a view over an expansive restaurant.

Green Bar

I've been to Elixir a few times because I like the friendly atmosphere and the drinks are very good.

The other day, I noticed that thimmakka.org had it listed as one of its green-certified bars. And then I found out that the city has green certified it, the first bar to have been certified as such.

They produce organic drinks, make sure to recycle, and have taken all the right steps.

Mediterranean

There's a couple great Mediterranean places throughout the city.

Depending on your mood, these are two great bets.

If you want something quick and easy, head over to the Mission to check out Truly Mediterranean (no website - 3109 16th Street @ Valencia). They have shwarma, falafel, and um, that's about it. It's tiny with only a few stools lined up facing a mirror. Absolutely worth it, and very well-priced.

For another option that's more of a sit-down place, head over to Fillmore or Noe for
La Mediterranee (they also have an outpost in Berkley). I really like the plate of fillo dough specialties. One is with feta and spinach, one is with cheese, one with lamb, and finally one with chicken (that could almost be a dessert). Their hummus, baba ghanoush, tableh, and others are great with some pita bread. They have a rotating menu of specials. All the food is very well-priced, as are the wines that help round out the meal.

Tapas!

I love coming to Ramblas and sip some of their (a bit too sweet, but strong) sangria and then decide what I'm in the mood for that particular day. It's by no means the best tapas place in the city, but it's loud and friendly and a good start to your evening.

If you want cold, they range from olives, a plate of cheeses, different jamons, Spanish tortilla, and other choices. As for hot, they have sausages, potatoes, mushrooms, calamari, and a host of other choices. I've not had their paella, but noticed it's on the menu.