MISSION DISTRICT. Named for the cautionary text on protest signs carried by one of the city's resident eccentrics, this satisfying club is terrific if you like intimate venues. Although the general space is large (if not narrow), the performance stage is compact, so if you really want to get up-close with bands, it's a good idea to arrive early. If that doesn't happen, a wraparound balcony allows good views from upstairs and comes with its own bar, lounge areas, and pool table. Ticket prices for the mostly-local slate of performers are affordable, and past showcases have featured everything from rock to hillbilly.

SOMA. A penchant for the dramatic colors this entire enterprise, which is simultaneously a restaurant, bar and (downstairs) dance club. An Asian theme is served by shoji screens, bamboo accents and a recurring dragon motif. Perhaps, though, the most intriguing aspect of Asia SF is that servers are also female impersonators (or "gender illusionists," as they're called here). While watching them perform, take advantage of fantastic California-Asian cuisine, along with desserts, signature cocktails and an award-winning wine list. Required dinner reservations guarantee your table for an hour and 45 minutes.

SOMA. This upscale New American bar and eatery makes a statement on otherwise unassuming Brannan Street. Patrons feast on intriguing seafood dishes that couple French and Asian flavors, from grilled mahi mahi and smoked cod to roasted lobster. The wine menu features over 200 varieties, and a jazz trio plays evenings in the bar area. The restaurant occupies a refurbished warehouse with exposed steel beams and brick walls and is dominated by an impressive multi-story, glass-encased wine cellar.

FINANCIAL DISTRICT. If you mourn the glamour that characterized Hollywood in the '30s and '40s, this refined supper club provides reason to rejoice. Tucked discreetly down an alley, the polished space soars with high ceilings, grand columns and moody lighting. While Bix's accomplished cuisine finds enormous favor with patrons, its much-loved bar is a regular haunt of after-work professionals and upscale city residents who adore the club's elegant style. Perfect martinis are the drink of choice, and live jazz nightly adds an extra measure of class. A great social scene is always in the making.

NORTH BEACH. Formerly the Blue Bar, this small, intimate establishment provides self-proclaimed good food and mellow music. Take your pick of Italian and Chinese cuisine, or sample seafood and meat and potatoes in the lower level restaurant. The Jazz Club on the top level features nightly piano solos. Don't miss the shellfish counter from 4pm-5:30pm daily.