Bar Bambino in S.F.

One recent weeknight, a soggy person, head down against the rain and on her way to meet a friend at Bar Bambino, overshot her destination three times. Surely the charming wine bar she was looking for wasn't on this bleak stretch of 16th Street?

When she homed in on a green brick building and peered inside, she saw couples and families cozy and warm, laughing and talking, enjoying wine and nibbles from chef Elizabeth Binder. Aha!

Moments later, she was, happily, on their side of the window.

The vibe: A San Francisco dinner party - jeans, sweaters, jazz tinkling over the sound system, chic lighting - but with attentive service.

The crowd: A mix of sophisticated oenophiles, artsy couples and the occasional family, happy to cram next to each other at tables or share a communal one.

Best seat: The patio out back is a welcome and surprising refuge from winter. Don't worry, it's heated and covered.

Killer app: The egg and truffle bruschetta ($13) and the selection of cured meats ($12 for two). For something more substantial, try the Chicken alla Palermitana ($22), roasted and pan-fried to crispy perfection.

Signature drink: Wine - try from more than 160 bottles or about 35 by the glass ($9-$16).

Also on tap: A selection of international beers and "wine-y beer," 750-ml bottles that run $26-$39.

Bonus: Order a box lunch ($12) Tuesday through Saturday, which comes with a salad, a choice of panino and cookies. Pick up, or for a $15 delivery charge, get a minimum of 10 lunches delivered anywhere in San Francisco.

Bar Bambino: 2931 16th St., S.F. (415) 701-8466. www.barbambino.com. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Tues.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-midnight Fri., noon-midnight Sat., 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Mon. Reservations. Credit cards accepted.

- Sophie Brickman, sbrickman@sfchronicle.com

This article appeared on page G - 10 of the San Francisco Chronicle