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.

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.

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.

JAPANTOWN. It's all about blues music at this Fillmore Street club, which also throws in soul, R&B, and gospel for interest and good measure. Regulars often follow-up a spin around the large dance floor with a drink at the bar, indulging in one of the club's killer cocktails. In fact, focus on music and dancing is the main draw, although you may want to check out the great photographs lining the walls. Since the place is open every day until 2am, you'll be able to take in a large share of fun for a good price.

POTRERO HILL. This club's a standout in a town filled with great clubs. Its intimate environment attracts a host of hip folks, and the place reverberates with the sounds of live rock and alternative music. In fact, international, regional, and local artists have caused "Rolling Stone" to give the place an enthusiastic thumbs-up. A pool table and an outdoor patio offer pleasant diversions, and if you're hungry, the small, tasty menu includes standbys like hamburgers, chicken, and pasta.