Columbus Tower, San Francisco

The Columbus Tower, also known as the Sentinel Building, was constructed between 1905 - 1907 with funding and guidance from Abe Reuf, a lawyer and politician from San Francisco. However, the devastating earthquake of 1906 and subsequent fire left only the steel framework of the building standing. In 1907, the tower was reconstructed with a copper exterior and included Reuf's offices on the top floor. Unfortunately, Reuf's involvement in bribery led to his conviction in 1909 and a 14-year prison sentence. During his incarceration, the copper cladding oxidized, resulting in the green appearance that the building retains today.

According to legend, the Caesar salad was initially served at a restaurant named 'Caesar's,' located within the Columbus Tower. However, the restaurant was forced to close down in compliance with the Eighteenth Amendment of the United States Constitution in 1919, which prohibited the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages. In the 1960s, the building was owned by 'The Kingston Trio,' who utilized a studio they built in the basement for recording their songs. By the 1970s, the tower had fallen into disrepair until it was rescued by Francis Ford Coppola, the director of the Godfather movies. Coppola purchased the building, renovated it, and established his American Zoetrope studio there. Today, the Columbus Tower holds the distinction of being landmark number 33 on the list of San Francisco landmarks. Additionally, it houses the Zoetrope Café, a bistro that offers wine from the Napa Valley.