There’s no place like the Fillmore for a jazzy night out
Low lights, chocolaty decor, and sassy signature cocktails make the lounge at 1300 on Fillmore a smooth start to your night. Sip a fruity Bourbon-and-berry Fillmore Kiss on a leather couch, and it'll feel like the band is playing just for you. The best apps? Spiced pumpkin bisque with vanilla mascarpone and barbecued shrimp 'n' creamy grits. $$$; live jazz Sun-Wed; 1300 Fillmore St.; 1300fillmore.com
The Lush Life Gallery, part of the block-long Fillmore Heritage Center complex, is worth a stop (and it's open late) for its pictographic history of jazz and cool action shots of Ella Fitzgerald, Carlos Santana, and Miles Davis. Free; 1320 Fillmore St.; 415/255-7745.
Even if jazz isn't your thing, a show at Yoshi's is thrilling. The biggest names on the scene (Cassandra Wilson, Taj Mahal, Roy Haynes, Chick Corea) shake down the stage while you sip sake flights and eat Japanese bar bites. The Oakland location made Yoshi's famous, but jazz this good belongs on Fillmore. $$$; 1330 Fillmore St.; yoshis.com
While it's not new to the 'hood, the Boom Boom Room still has plenty of soul, whether you're into Delta blues, swamp funk, boogie-woogie, jazz, or straight soul. It may not look like much outside, but a late-night set here is a perfect date-night finale, giving you the chance to get up and dance. 1601 Fillmore St.; boomboomblues.com
Pick up a getup for your next date night at Sunhee Moon. The boutique's collection of 1950s-inspired pencil skirts, trench coats, blouses, and shirtdresses will have you channeling your inner Audrey Hepburn. 1833 Fillmore St., Ste. 101; 415/928-1800.