Located directly across from Washington Square Park in the very heart of North Beach

Best of San Francisco Review

Mario's Bohemian Cigar Store, one of the oldest and best original cappuccino cafes in North Beach, (and the United States) was founded by Mario Crismani and his wife, Liliana. Since Mario retired, it has been operated by their son, Paul, and his wife Debbie. They serve oven baked Focaccia Sandwiches, Pizza, great Cannelloni, Grilled Chicken marinated in white wine, lightly battered and breaded eggplant with Swiss cheese, marinated sweet bell peppers in their homemade marinara sauce. They also serve salads, beer & wine, "Talk of the Town Tiramisu!" as well as Mario's Homemade Ricotta Cheese Cake. A romantic place for couples, many of whom come back over the years to celebrate the place where they met. You will often find actual bohemian writers hanging out at the bar, while a jazz sound track plays from the sound system. This is probably the most authentic City experience of any Cappuccino cafe in San Francisco. Writers, adventurers, lovers and friends will attest to the fact. When you visit Mario's, you feel the history of North Beach.

Above: Portrait of the founder, Mario Crismani (L),
and card players in the light of a North Beach afternoon (R).
Photo taken in the early 1970's.

Mario's Bohemian Cigar Store is a favorite place for sidewalk dining - right across from the park. During celebrations , or on any foggy Friday or Saturday night, you can hardly get in the door. But, that is the great charm of our favorite Cappuccino cafe in North Beach.
Check out their wine list. It is small, but very select.

New additions to their cafe is family recipe Handmade Biscotti available in bulk and specialty tins. Orders need 48 hour notice. Delicious!
And...now they also offer free wireless internet access.