A groovy neighbourhood lounge with delicious fresh fruit caipirinhas, Bossa Nova brings the favela to the list of San Francisco bars: a favela being the Rio de Janeiro ghetto that gave way to samba and bossa nova, where dance halls and nightclubs pack the streets. The scene is funky and inviting with candles, mismatched chairs, salvaged window frames, and seats at the bar. The friendly, mostly Brazilian staff knows their stuff-don’t hesitate to ask for a recommendation when choosing among the various Cachacas on offer. Weekends bring rotating DJs and international guests. Hungry? Snack on fried plantain chips with salt and lime, or order from a full dinner menu of meats and seafood as well as small plates of salt cod croquettes and tuna tartare.

Photo: Flickr/{Guerrilla Futures | Jason Tester}“