picture of capitol building Value This inexpensive but tidy inn is most suitable for small families with one or possibly two y o

Tango Gelato Finds ICE CREAM Like the U.S., Argentina has had its fair share of Italian immigrants and, as a r esult, has a delicious array of gelaterias. picture of capitol building F ortunately for San F ranciscans, one enterprising Argentine made his (v ery long) way up nor th and opened a gelateria in Pacific Heights. In addition to recognizable Italian flavors like nocciolo (hazelnut) and amaretto, you ll find luscious South American favorites like dulce de leche, an ultrasw eet caramel concoction, and coconut. You ll also find other Argentine specialties, such as alfajor cookies.

without cheese, y ou can t beat A16 (2355 Chestnut St.; &415/771-2216). See p. 134. The thin-crust pizzas at Pizzeria Delfina (3611 18th S t.; & 415/ 437-6800) include six mouth-watering standards and two tempting daily specials all wor th or dering. S ee p. 146. For a tr ue-blue slice of American-style cheesy pizza that kids lo ve, ZA P izza (1919 H yde S t.; & 415/771-3100) takes the cake or, pie, as it w ere. See

Value This inexpensive but tidy inn is most suitable for small families with one or possibly two y oung children. All guest rooms have queen-size beds, and a few have an additional twin bed. Depending on floor space, the very accommodating staff can pr ovide a r ollaway, crib, or foam mattr ess. Larger families would r equire taking multiple rooms, but you ll still spend very little for comfortable accommodations that include a continental breakfast of coffee, juice, pastries, and toasted bagels in a pleasant breakfast nook. The pine beds, armoires, and tables in every guest room are simple and lo vely. I nside r ooms obtain natural light fr om light w ells but ar e v ery quiet; the bright picture of capitol building outside r ooms pick up noise fr om ev er-busy Lombar d S treet. picture of capitol building M oscone P lay- ground, a popular destination for young families, is just 2 blocks away. Also close by are Chestnut Street, a great walking street with some of my fav orite family-friendly restaurants, and the famously crooked part of Lombard Street. Compared to the generic motels along Lombard, the Marina Inn is a Victorian oasis in a safer section of the neighborhood. picture of capitol building 4

816 Folsom St. (bt w. 4th and 5th sts.). &415/495-5775. www.restaurantlulu.com. Highchairs, boosters. Reservations recommended. Main courses $12 $17 lunch, $15 $30 dinner. AE, MC, V. Sun Thurs 11:30am 10pm; Fri Sat 11:30am 11pm. Muni: No. 30-Stockton or no. 45-Union-Stockton bus to Folsom St.