A hundred years ago, there was a beach here—but landfill changed the shape of the city to handle the new immigrants. Bordered by Columbus Avenue, Washington and Beach Streets and the Embarcadero, the area is still dominated by the Italian influence in its numerous restaurants, cafes and coffee shops.

Considered to be one of the city's prettiest neighborhoods, it houses some of the city's most trendy new shops and restaurants - next to historical old family-owned businesses. The Fior d'Italia is the oldest Italian restaurant in America, established in 1886. Washington Square Park is a great place for tai chi, and the area has some of the best nightlife in the city.

For more information, go to:
www.sfgate.com
www.sfstation.com
www.bayarea.citysearch.com
www.travel.excite.com