beijing ski resort Japantown The Japan Center was built as part of an ambitious 1960s plan to revitalize the Fillmore D

Japantown The Japan Center was built as part of an ambitious 1960s plan to revitalize the Fillmore District. Blocks of aging Victorians were demolished and replaced by the Geary Express way and this Japanese-style shopping complex, with a five- tiered, 75-ft (22-m) Peace Pagoda at its heart. Taiko drummers perform here during the Cherry Blossom Festival each April (see p74). The extensive malls are lined with authentic Japanese shops and restaurants, plus an eight-screen cinema, and the Kabuki Springs and Spa. More shops and restaurants are found along the outdoor mall across Post Street. This neighborhood has been the focus of the Japanese community for some 75 years. d Map F3

Note: Unless otherwise stated, all restaurants accept credit cards and serve vegetarian meals Around Town Southern Neighborhoods 113 Places to Eat Above Pancho Villa Taqueria !Boulevard The cuisine is mouthwatering Americana, but in very creative ways. The decor is belle poque; the service superior. d 1 Mission St at Steuart Map H2 (415) 543-6084 Dis. access $$$$ @Luna A pleasant patio, and great food try the grilled salmon salad with black-eyed peas. d 558 Castro St Map E5 (415) 621-2566 $$ Bagdad Caf This diner is all-American buffalo wings, herb-roasted chicken, and pastries displayed in a revolving beijing ski resort carousel. d 2295 Market St Map F4 (415) 621-4434 Dis. access $ $Sparky s Diner Open 24 hours, this caf is great for clubbers wanting beijing ski resort to grab a late night breakfast. During the day it attracts families. d 242 Church St at Market Map F4 (415) 626-8666 $ %Chow Just off Market Street, Chow offers affordable pizzas, pastas, grilled and roasted meats, beijing ski resort and a selection of beer and wine. Friendly service. d 215 Church St Map F4 (415) 552-2469 Dis. access $ ^Pancho Villa Taqueria beijing ski resort Traditional Mexican fare here is prepared by jolly muchachos and chiquitas. d 3071 16th St Map F4 (415) 864-8840 Dis. access $ &La Rondalla Kitsch and fun, this lively place serves Tex-Mex food until 3am. Wash it down with their potent margaritas. d 901 Valencia St Map F5 (415) 647-7474 Closed Mon No credit cards Dis. access $ *Caff Centro A brisk business in drinks, pastries, soups, and salads. Always crowded (see p64). d 102 South Park Map R6 (415) 882-1500 Closed Sun Dis. access $ (Tita Hale Aina This Hawaiian restaurant is complete beijing ski resort with traditional music and tropical decor. Specialties include kahlua pig and aku tuna. d 3870 17th St at Market Map F5 (415) 626-2477 Closed beijing ski resort Mon Dis. access $ )Higher Ground Coffee House A variety of sandwiches, omelets, and fresh salads, served with amazing homemade fries. d 691 Chenery St, Glen Park (415) 587-2933 No credit cards Dis. access $

*Truly Mediterranean This Middle Eastern snack joint is great for grabbing a bag of falafel, and a stack of pitta bread, then heading to Golden beijing ski resort Gate Park for a picnic. d 3109 16th St Map F5 (415) 252-7482 Dis. access

^Alcatraz The Rock is always a hit with older children, particularly beijing ski resort boys, who relate immediately to the grim, quasi-military aspects of the place. The wildness of the island s natural beauty, as well as the great ferry ride out and back, will also delight. Smaller kids might find the place a bit frightening (see pp14 17).