Somewhere between your occupation and your social preoccupations, you’re supposed to take time out for yourself—and get things done. Fortunately, some clever local entrepreneurs have arranged it so you don’t have to choose between the two. Here are the best businesses that offer practical services and personal indulgences all in the same place. This is one kind of two-timing that doesn’t require an alibi.
1
BIKE-FIX 'N' NOSH
If your shiny steed gets in a scrape or just needs a tune-up, there’s no better place to have it tended to than Mojo Bicycle Café: equal parts bicycle repair shop, store, bar, and restaurant. Enjoy a full breakfast, lunch, or dinner while the shop takes care of your bike, or bring an organic Ecco Caffè coffee or a glass of wine to one of the tables in the urban garden. Though Mojo does carry some mountain and road-racing bikes, it focuses on practical city riders. 639A Divisadero St., 415-440-2338
2
POLISH 'N' PLAYDATE
Pamper yourself at the just opened Mani + Nanny without having to call a sitter. You’ll sit on an overstuffed chair to get your manicure or pedicure while a nanny watches your child (or children) in a playroom filled with toys and games. You can even keep an eye on your little tykes via a one-way window or the videocam/TV on the wall. At $10 for one child or $15 for two, doing your nails remains an affordable luxury. 1722–1724 Divisadero St., 415-673-6264
3
MOVIE 'N' MOCHA
When you enter Fayes Video & Espresso Bar, grab a coffee (the “huge” size is only $1.75) and head to the “adrenaline” section, where action-packed movies will really get your blood flowing. For a mellower vibe, browse foreign cinema, documentaries, or romances over a decaf cappuccino. And if you go on Mondays, pick up any movie of your choice for just two bucks. Whatever you decide to take home, be sure to notice the plaque at the end of each shelf, with a charming drawing and a movie quote that capture the spirit of the section. 3614 18th St., 415-522-0434
4
SHAVE 'N' DRINK
Mr. is half old-fashioned barbershop, half urban lounge. Men can socialize, have a drink, and watch the big game on overhead flat-screens—all while getting a clean shave and a nice shampoo. Conveniently located in the financial district, the bar is open to everyone (women can stop in for a beverage) and serves beer, wine, sake cocktails, and coffee. Become a member, and you’ll be invited to the next poker tournament. Talk about doubling down. 560 Sacramento St., 415-291-8800
5
LAUNDRY 'N' FRIES
The food served at BrainWash Café and Laundromat is so good that without the sound of quarters clanking in your ear, you would never know you can also do your laundry right onsite. Entrées range from a light vegetarian Cobb salad to the heartier Burger of Doom, which comes with tequila-glazed, honey-roasted bacon. BrainWash also provides nightly entertainment, and its calendar of events is packed with local artists, comedy, and open-mike nights. So separate your delicates and take a load off. 1122 Folsom St., 415-255-4866
Main photo: The laid-back folks at Mojo Bicycle Café encourage you to “ride in, hang out, and get your fix.”
Links:
[1] http://www.sanfranmag.com/content/mg4167jpg