Mama's On Washington Square

Posing for photos in front of Coit Tower takes energy, so hordes of tourists descend on the pastry-and-egg wonderland that is Mama’s On Washington Square. Locals should join them. The solid homestyle breakfast and lunch staples coming out of this North Beach spot overlooking, you guessed it, Washington Square, are comforting with a capital C, as is the homey space—the walls are sun yellow, the awning out front is covered with hearts, and “I Love North Beach” prints hang overhead. Just order at the counter, find a seat, and let the eggy french toast, hearty omelettes, and free coffee refills come to you.