Cafe Royale

A regular series of free acoustic, jazz, comedy, and film events draw curious locals and tourists alike to this windowed cafe nestled between the Union Square, Nob Hill, and upper Tenderloin neighborhoods. Filled with sunlight during the day and candlelit at night, the ceramic hex tile floors and high ceilings go for a classy vibe, while a large semi-circular sofa cozies up the middle of the room. There's even a pool table, should you feel like knocking around a few billiard balls. Fans of pulp literature should also drop into Kayo Books next door, then saunter to the other end of the block and see the apartment building where Dashiell Hammett wrote The Maltese Falcon.

• Cuisine(s): Coffeehouse, Tea, Wine Bar

• Hours: Mon-Thu 6am-12am, Sun 10am-12am, Sat 10am-2am, Fri 6am-2am