To those who haven't truly explored it, the Outer Richmond might seem like little more than a checkered grid of quiet streets and rectilinear rows of flats and houses to match. Sure, there's hardly an unruly bend in sight. And yes, it lacks the raucous magnetism of downtown or the Mission. But buried amidst the right angles and uniform rows is a five-block oasis of eclectic amenities and modest charm that begs for a visit.

You can find this little treasure trove on Balboa Street, starting at Thirty-fifth Avenue and winding down at about Fortieth. This short strip is chock-full of everything from restaurants and cafés to archery and antique shops, so no matter what you're into, you'll likely find it here.

If a quick bite is what you're after, stop by the Shanghai Dumpling King for some juicy chicken or pork dumplings, but if you want to settle in for a bit, get a table at the Americana Grill for the best American breakfast on the block. For those with a craving for Middle Eastern grub, Egyptian food and belly dancers can be found at Al-Masri at the western fringe of the strip.

Aside from a great variety of restaurants to choose from, there are a couple cafés that are worth mentioning, of which Simple Pleasures is the most inviting. The coffee is good, the atmosphere is warm, and there is always a crowd of regulars that keep it bustling. When you go up to the counter to order, don't be surprised if the gentleman asks you whether you want your coffee "for here, or to stay." The meter maid alerts also add to the friendly vibe.

Zephyr Cafe also offers a good cup of coffee, but the vibe is a bit stranger. There are tons of chairs, tables, and couches that make it a good place to relax or study, but the grotto-like atmosphere and the mannequin who surveys her patrons from the balcony make it a little creepy. Aside from that, their "A La Mode" (a scoop of vanilla ice cream with espresso poured over it) is excellent.

Besides the good coffee and eats, there are a couple of unique shops worth checking out if you're looking to kill some time. Gus' Discount Tackle is a neat place to peruse. This musty old bazaar has everything from crab nets to cheap socks. If you're into antiques, stop by Muzzy's Attic for some prehistoric funk.

THE LOOKOUT

Americana Grill
Thirty-fifth and Balboa
The best breakfast in town, hands down. Their authentic tasting omelets and french toast dishes are definitely worthy of Jupiter's praise, and their prices are too. They also have an extensive selection of Vietnamese dishes that make for a good lunch.

Shanghai Dumpling King
Thirty-fifth and Balboa
Reaching an adequate understanding of Richmond culture is impossible without first immersing yourself in its Chinese cuisine, and this little eatery's tasty chicken dumplings could be your next step on the journey towards gastronomical wisdom.

Simple Pleasures Cafe
Thirty-fifth and Balboa
This sunny little cafe boasts good coffee and a nice selection of sweets and snacks, but the prices, like those of most other cafés, cause some pain.

Balboa Theater
Thirty-seventh and Balboa
This is one of the only movie theaters on the west side of town, so if you don't feel like motoring through downtown traffic to catch a flick, this is the place to go. The place only has two screens, but the popcorn is good and parking comes easy. Matinees are $6.50 and regular admission is $9.00.

Hockey Haven
Thirty-seventh and Balboa
When the sun sinks over the Pacific and the street lights pop on, Balboa goes to sleep, except for this place. Though from the outside this little bar looks like it could be one of the CIA's secret gulags, inside it's lively and the prices are reasonable.

Gus' Discount Tackle
Thirty-eighth and Balboa
If you have expensive tastes, but your wallet is a little light, then stop by Gus', buy yourself a crab net, some frozen squid, and head down to the pier to nab yourself a couple of those delectable Dungeness crabs that thrive in the bay.

Contact: polofox@sfsu.edu | Jonathan Bole suffers vigorous and unflagging mental erections induced by high doses of Dalí, Nietzsche, Madison, and American politics in general.