Bastille Day in San Francisco

Bastille Day is nearly upon us, and there isn't a better time to check out San Francisco's little French Quarter located on Belden Place and Claude Lane near Union Square. This area serves as a hub for the city's French-American community; the French Consulate and Alliance Francaise are nearby.

These tree-lined alleys house a number of charming restaurants and bars; Plouf and Cafe Bastille are noted for their traditional French offerings; Cafe Claude boasts live jazz on the weekends and an intimate zinc bar. The district's newest restaurant, Gitane Restaurant, is a festive, special-occasion restaurant that has garnered nods from local critics.

On Bastille Day (July 14th), streamers and balloons are hung, lights lit, and the party takes over Belden Place as live dance tunes crank.

Photo courtesy of Cafe Claude