Virginia Avenue, 29th Street, San Francisco

Virginia Avenue, 29th Street and more, S.F.: In Bernal Heights, explore spots for Southern grub, hearty spaghetti, lighter cafe fare and a scoop or two of ice cream. Or put on your hiking boots or walking shoes, bring along the pooch and head up to Bernal Heights Park, one of the city’s most beautiful open spaces.

1. The Front Porch

65-A 29th St.: Indulge in Southern comfort food including gumbo made with andouille sausage, chicken and stewed okra to fried chicken or mac and cheese. Sides include collard greens with bacon and garlic mashed potatoes and gravy. (415) 695-7800. www.thefrontporchsf.com.

2. Cafe Seventy8

78 29th St.: Sandwiches include a vegan egg, a veggie panini and one made with prosciutto, mo arella and pesto. When the weather’s pleasant, enjoy lunch alfresco at the parklet out front with its cluster of tables, chairs, potted succulents and decorative grasses. (415) 970-2233.

3. Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack

18 Virginia Ave.: As the name implies, the generous portions include spaghetti and meatballs tossed in a marinara sauce and topped with fresh Parmesan and parsley. Don’t forget to order a side of garlic bread. (415) 206-2086. www.emmysspaghettishack.com.

4. Mitchell’s Ice Cream

688 San Jose Ave.: Since 1953, the Mitchell family has made its ice cream by hand in small batches on site daily. On a recent visit, flavors included butterscotch marble, grasshopper pie, ube (purple yam) and mango sorbet. (415) 648-2300. www.mitchellsicecream.com.

5. New Alternatives Cafe

1600 Guerrero St.: This neighborhood spot frequented by locals features fresh juices, specialty coffees, breakfast served all day and lunch fare including salads, sandwiches and chicken tamales. Comfortable sofas and chairs, indoor and outdoor tables and free Wi-Fi add to the inviting atmosphere. (415) 826-5282. www.newalternativescafe.com.

6. Bernal Heights Park

Bernal Heights Boulevard at Folsom Street: From this grassy open space and off-leash doggie nirvana crowning Bernal Hill, amble along dirt pathways or settle in on a bench to savor the breathtaking panoramic views. View the downtown skyline, the Marin Headlands, the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge. www.sfrecpark.org.

- Stephanie Wright Hession, 96hours@sfchronicle.com

Virginia Avenue, 29th Street, San Francisco