Mario's Bohemian Cigar Store
(415) 362-0536
566 Columbus Ave
San Francisco,
CA
94133
37.8001
-122.4095
Neighborhoods: North Beach, Northeast
What People Are Saying About Mario's Bohemian Cigar Store
The Editor
Kim Cooper
Citysearch
The Scene
There are two murals in this neighborhood haunt: one of Rome, the other San Francisco, and Mario's reflects the casual, sociable air of both cities. The narrow, triangular-shaped space is perpetually packed with talkative locals, with a single row of tables pushed up against the windows overlooking Washington Square. A cappuccino machine constantly sputters in the background.
The Food
For a filling yet cheap lunch, the heavenly focaccia sandwiches are hard to beat. If there's a more poetic sandwich experience than the grilled eggplant--perfectly caramelized yet still soft within, wafting a delicate vinegar scent that meets the yeasty, oniony toast smell of the bread, warm and squishy and soft and earthy--it will likely be found in heaven. Paper-thin pizzas, generously dotted with toppings such as freshly grilled chicken and peppers, are also crowd pleasers. End the lunchtime repast with a slightly sweet ricotta and apple cake and a perfect frothy cappuccino.
User Reviews
ninaGi
May 19, 2008
great location. good tasty menu. great prices and good staff. You can't go wrong with a sandwich and glass of wine outside on a warm day facing the park. Just lovely.
read full review
dcsouthbay
March 10, 2008
We've been to Mario's several times and it's usually been a great experience. It's located on the edge of Washington Square, so good people watching. It's VERY small. Table are best suited for 2-3 people, so don't plan to come with a large group. They don't really have a full-kitchen but cook some excellent sandwiches in an oven in the bar area that gives the entire place a great aroma. Paninnis (sp?) are great, but I'd stay away from the Italian sausage with polenta -- it's nothing special. We've also had a late night coffee and dessert at Marios. Coffee is always excellent. We had a delicious chocolate cake on one trip and the next time it was only so-so. My guess is that it might've been a few days old the 2nd time.
read full review
sfconnoisseur
November 13, 2006
This place is a favorite standby in North Beach. The name is a bit confusing, since it doesn't appear to have anything to do with cigar's anymore. The food is cheap and simple. I really recommend any of the panini's, the Combo being my fave. I always have a house Campari, like to sit in the little corner table watching people on both Union and Columbus Streets. It's usually busy, but cozily so, and many people go there for a beer or snack after spending a day in the park across the street. Always a pleasant experience.
read full reviewThe Details on Mario's Bohemian Cigar Store
Know Before You Go:
Although every table and bar stool will likely be filled at noontime, service is still refreshingly quick.
Where to Sit:
It's worth waiting for the corner window seat that looks out onto Columbus Avenue, if you enjoy people-watching.
Category:
Payment Methods:
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Family-Friendly Dining, People Watching, Date Spot, Dine At The Bar
