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.

NORTH BEACH. Billed as the nation's longest running musical review, Steve Silver's Beach Blanket Babylon performs hilarious spoofs of pop culture with great voices, spectacular costumes, outrageously gigantic hats and a succession of show-stopping numbers. The Golden Gate Bridge on someone's head? But of course. Adults only for evening performances; minors welcome at Sunday matinees.

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. This downtown establishment frequently draws business folks intent on relaxing after a day at the office. Wines and champagnes are prominent; in fact, the menu boasts more than 300 types of champagne (as the name would suggest). For versatility, some are available by the glass. A small selection of gourmet appetizers and tantalizing desserts can be found as well. Downstairs, there's a pool table and a second bar area. A festive, see-and-be-seen atmosphere.