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This place is prob a staple in this Fi-Di neighborhood. I recently changed jobs and moved from one end to the other and I had never even heard of this place before. But it has lunch options to satisfy a hungry, yet aggressive, crowd. I had the Goat Cheese Salad which was fine - full of dried cranberries and walnuts, but that dressing they serve with it (on the side) is so garlicky. I did not even want to leave my desk afterwards. Popping a multitude of mints helped slightly but I had to run out and buy a toothbrush and some toothpaste because that dressing seemed to linger.
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Sellers Markets
Cuisine: American Bistro
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Downtown |
2/21/2007
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Super ridicously packed, at lunch time anyway! One of the newest additions to the Osha family, it's typically popular. Welcome! It's a great, new place for the Fi-Di crowd and who doesn't love Thai food. Portions are still huge, inexpensive and most importantly tasty. Service is always friendly and lightening fast!!! Thanks!
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Osha Thai Restaurant
Cuisine: Thai
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Embarcadero |
2/20/2007
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The All You Can Eat menu is huge, lots of simple options but be sure to read the fine print at the bottom. You will be charged extra without notice of any uneaten rice balls or wasted food. So eat everything they give you even if you're full or feel sick bc the rice you did manage to eat has expanded in your stomach or bc the tempura is disgustingly heavy and greasy. I can understand that some customers may take advantage and over indulge but we did not bc I hate wasting food in general and I don't eat that much anyway. Plus, another downside was that the ratio of fish to rice in the rolls was bad, really bad, too much rice, not enough fish, I might as well have been eating just rice because on some of those rolls you really needed a magnifying glass to see if anything else was in there. If you're looking for authenticity go somewhere else but for basics and if you're a tourist who doesn't know any better, well, steer clear of here also. You might be better off with Sushi Rock, maybe.
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Sushi Hunter
Cuisine: Sushi
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North Beach |
2/20/2007
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I had a lovely time here. I could not resist ordering the Sliders. Yes, it seems like every restaurant has their own version of a gourmet burger so the concept seems over appreciated and unoriginal. But the sliders here are AMAZING and prob one of the best in the city! Two minis on focaccia bread with caramelized onions and cheese! You can order the burgers any way you'd like. I chose med-rare–completely juicy and luscious! I took home the other one, nuked it in the micro the next day and it was still super moist and delish! They have other great options if you're not totally keen on the burger idea and everything is really tasty. RNM is definitely a sure thing for any occasion that you're celebrating or just for a cozy dinner.
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RNM
Cuisine: American (New)
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Lower Haight |
2/11/2007
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Whoa! Did you know on Thursdays that every hour on the hour after 7pm, it's 'Carnival'! Whistles start blowing, music pumps out louder, feathers, sequins, shiny, slick, skin all around. OK, totally unexpected, not knowing that Thursday nights are Samba nights, we dined here and it was such a fun, surprising treat! So ok, the food is also really good. Brazilian Italian fare. We had the lasagna, short ribs, chicken, and risotto plus a few different apps and lots of vino. It's a fun environment and staff are super friendly, plus with dancing ladies all around you as you're eating, it was a fun way to enjoy your dinner, albeit more so for the guys than the girls in your party.
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Mangarosa Restaurant
Cuisine: Italian Brazilian
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North Beach |
2/11/2007
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Out of all the BLT's I've ever had in my lifetime, and it's a lot, this place has one of the best bacon, lettuce, and tomato lovelies! You can even get it with avocado! Yum ... droooool! I'm a serious conissiouer about my pork products and the bacon here is delish!
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Norton's Vault
Cuisine: Pub Food American (Traditional)
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Downtown |
1/31/2007
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So I had the best time at Canteen the other night! Everything was very enjoyable! Love that this place has only 3 seating times per night, which makes it feel more intimate, as if the place was open just for me. It turns out that sitting at the counter is a fun, cozy, more enjoyable experience that perhaps surpasses the booth. I had requested a booth and am glad it didn't come through. The menu is intimate and you can select from various options from appetizers, entrees and desserts. All dishes were executed beautifully and tasted even more amazing! It's been a few days, at least, and I am still daydreaming about that pork rib loin that melted in my mouth like butter - and that's a difficult thing to accomplish with any pork item. Canteen is utterly delightful and it's truly remarkable what a tiny, teeny, kitchen and restaurant can accomplish with just 2 chefs manning the stoves and 2 people for front of the house. I cannot cannot cannot wait to go back!
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Canteen
Cuisine: Californian
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Tenderloin |
1/29/2007
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Excellent, fresh sushi!!! Great Sake! Pleasant, friendly staff! Quality sashimi - we had a huge Chef selection of maguro, toro, hamachi, Tai snapper and salmon! And the ankimo was delicious, not 'fishy' or overpowering or adorned with the essence of Umami, as it can be that way at many other restaurants. This is a fantastic sushi spot!
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Toraya Sushi Bar & Grill
Cuisine: Sushi
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Pacific Heights |
1/22/2007
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Uh no. This place used to be really, really cool back in the day. Now I tend to think it's overrated. Sure the artwork on the wall is a big hit - very cool and hypnotic and the decor is breathtaking. But the crowd just seems so stuffy and pompous at times. It's not a young crowd, more older, sophisticated ,suit jacket, and Diane Von Furstenburg kinda thing but indeed snobby. Really good, strong drinks though. No where to sit unless you've reserved a table. It gets very crowded on weekends making you bump into all sorts of people and spilling that good, strong drink all over your expensive, fancy shoes. I'd hit it up just to say you've been but find somewhere else to hang out at.
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Clift Hotel Redwood Room
Cuisine: American (Traditional)
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Downtown |
1/18/2007
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EXPENSIVE, expensive, expensive! Did I mention they were expensive? Even for a foodie like me who will pay big $ for a meal, but it better be worth it. Isn't this the place that sells baby cauliflower at $22 per lb. – for … cauliflower! That better be some mind-blowing, ethereal, de-licious cauliflower. And pre-made foods were plentiful but, yes “pre-made” and quite bland and, again, expensive. Even the sushi, sashimi and nigiri were not good and had that ‘fishy' essence like it was sitting out too long. I'm not a fan of the bland pre'made foods at Whole Foods either but WF tastes somewhat better than BF. I'm always easily tempted by Bristol's high quality and gourmet standards but not tempted enough to spend my entire paycheck there. Plus, grocery shopping in a mall just seems kinda weird to me.
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Bristol Farms
Cuisine: Food Store Deli
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Downtown |
1/18/2007
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Creative concept from yesteryear but the pies just seem to falter in flavor. Mind you, I've only been here once, on a whim, just passing by, but I don't really have any interest in going back. I had 2 pies: a spicy eggplant with black olive and a spinach with feta. Both were really bland and just not enough flavor to keep you satisfied and wanting more. And can I tell you how metallic tasting and thick the pie dough, crust was?! It tasted like it had way too much baking soda in it and left an extremely foul after taste in my mouth. Maybe they're supposed to taste that way. Again, I love the concept but will prob not go back. Sorry
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Kearny St. Pie
Cuisine: Bakery Deli Vegetarian
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Downtown |
1/18/2007
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Mmm mmm. Creampuffs. Who doesn't like a creampuff. These are light and airy – very surprising and utterly delicious. I like the vanilla better than the chocolate. The vanilla cream was smooth and silky, where as the chocolate seemed a bit grainy. And the puffs are huge! Definitely go when you have some room to spare in your belly or go to share!
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Beard Papa
Cuisine: Japanese Bakeries
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Downtown |
1/18/2007
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My beloved sandwich shop has a restaurant! Located a top of the beautiful Yerba Buena Gardens – the view is spectacular! I had gone to the opening party months ago and it was a huge success. They offered a lovely selection of wines and these Scallop ceviche appetizers that were scrumptious. I'm sure the menu is as fantastic as their signature sandwiches at their Kearny Street location!
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B Restaurant & Bar
Cuisine: American
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Downtown |
1/18/2007
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Proscuitto, asparagus, parmesan and melon!!!! A sandwich concoction to literally die for. Of course, savory proscuitto, tender asparagus, and juicy melon go together - put it in a sando and it's even better!
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Boxed Foods Company
Cuisine: American
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Downtown |
1/18/2007
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Margaritas, margaritas, margaritas! On the rocks, with lime, no salt! They have a lovely outdoor patio that is hidden from the street but it allows for all the breezes and air to come through. People do smoke there. It is a cigar bar after all and they serve food inside!
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The Cigar Bar & Restaurant
Cuisine: American
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North Beach |
1/18/2007
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Yummy! I've always loved this place. I recently went for lunch and yet again, savored ever bit of the Tomato Soup en croute (with puff pastry). Ah, it's what I call heaven. Other faves are the remarkable Steak Frites with Bernaise and Steak Tartare with frites. Also the Cassolet is delish if ever so filling and satisfying. And the Kobe Beef Shortrib sandwich was a winner – though the portion was small – the meat is so tender and decadent. Service was decent and the décor is modest. Jeanty lives up to be one of my favorites in the city.
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Jeanty At Jacks
Cuisine: French Brasseries
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Downtown |
1/2/2007
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I've been on numerous occasions and it's not bad. The place is spacious but not too loud where you have to yell to have a conversation. The food is presented in small plates and for a group of four ppl, about 8 dishes are recommended. Small parties can also opt to eat in full view of the kitchen. Everything was tasty though I could've gone without the Chicken and Waffles dish. I guess I was expecting something you could share, maybe fried chicken tenderloins or strips instead of a 2 fried wings, def not worthy for a party of four. Portions, I feel, could be slightly larger since you are sharing – basically they were wee-small appetizer portions but so goes the small plate craze. We paid appx $50 pp w tip - a bit pricey for the area and I did feel hungry about an hour later. Otherwise, great staff, service and food.
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Brick Restaurant
Cuisine: American (New)
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Tenderloin |
1/2/2007
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Before Sushi Master Chef Takahashi-san left for other ventures, I had the great opportunity to dine here. We ordered the Omakase and it was heaven. Not knowing what would be prepared for you is utterly delightful. Fresh maguro, fresh Uni, fresh salmon, fresh ankimo. It was remarkable! I recall a certain hot dish – yellowfin tuna braised in a clear flavorful broth with a big chunk of daikon radish. It was reminiscent of beef stew with potatoes and the tuna literally melted in your mouth. You didn't even need to chew it. I declared it to be the Pot Roast of Japan. It was probably one of the best things I've ever ate in my life - simple yet comforting, but unusual and delectable. The enitre meal was pricey, maybe about $150 for 2 ppl, but it was an Omakase menu and so worth it especially when in the hands of a master. We left full and incredibly satisfied.
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Anzu
Cuisine: Sushi Japanese Steakhouse
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Downtown |
12/26/2006
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This place is a San Francisco classic. Popular with the opera show folk, trendy with the foodies, a neighborhood institution for the Hayes Valley-set - Go here now! Food is always good, if not phenomenal and seriously food-coma friendly. Rich and decadent, as French cuisine should be, I love it. The frites are delish and don't pass up on the lovely aioli to dip your fried golden lovelies in to – it's dangerously good stuff. For drinks, I like the Pear Martini – original and bursting with juicy flavor – drink it down with a sinfully, triple cream cheese, a dozen plump and briny oysters on the half shell and some seductive Osetra caviar!
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Absinthe
Cuisine: French Brasseries
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Hayes Valley |
12/26/2006
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This place is great! I especially LOVE the Saigon Roast Pork sandwich and the Hoi An Braised Meatball sandwich. The Chicken salad and Steamed chicken bun are also decent. It gets crowded and you may need to wait in line if it's anywhere during lunch time but it's definitely worth the wait!
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Out the Door
Cuisine: Vietnamese
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Downtown |
12/26/2006
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My friend who used to live in LA insists that we always go here. Even if he's visiting friends – go here, go here! When he took me, I thought … eh. I wasn't impressed. The vibe is like a Japanese Animation flick come to life – too much – ‘thump-thump' music and way too much neon and uber-trendy-cool staff. I remember trying the Tartare Pyramid which was awful and mushy and the Seaweed Salad which was nothing too special. I guess I'm more into the smaller more authentic sushi places like Kiss or less uber like Anzu. Go here if you're into all the glitz though. I'm going to stay away.
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Blowfish, Sushi To Die For
Cuisine: Californian Japanese Sushi
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Mission |
12/26/2006
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I love the onion rings. These are fantastic and are excellent paired with your burger. Or get Frings – French fries and onion rings combo! Service is usually fast, esp for the lunch time Fi-Di crowd.
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Bistro Burger
Cuisine: American
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Downtown |
12/26/2006
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I LOVE this place. The food is so so so good. This isn't your typical sandwich, salad, soup place you'd find in the Fi-Di. It's 100% Gourmet fare at low prices. Chef and staff are super friendly and the vibe is casual. Only open for lunch M-F this place gets packed, so go before or after the lunch rush. Dead on favorites are the petite Tuscan tuna sandwich, Homemade veggie burger with goat cheese, Fennel crusted ahi tuna salad, Cuban pulled pork panini and Deviled eggs with Hungarian paprika and bacon, mmm bacon! Menu changes every so often to reflect the season but changes are only slight. Everything is impressive. Highly recommended!!!
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Myth Cafe
Cuisine: Californian Mediterranean
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Downtown |
12/13/2006
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Myth has been around for a while and still continues to grow strong. It's one of the hottest and most difficult restaurants to get into, especially if you want to dine on a Friday or Saturday night. Definitely call to make a reservation in advance. Or eat mid-week. Cancellations do happen occasionally, so ask to be on the waitlist. You can always opt to dine at the bar if you can't get in but also note that it's first come first serve. So arrive early. You will not be disappointed. Definite hits are the warm Sweetbread Salad and the Steak Frites. Both savory, delectable and perfect. The Risotto with Parmesan and White Truffle is a masterpiece, rich, creamy, full of flavor. Braised Short Ribs with Horseradish Potato Puree – tender, absolutely heaven. Highly recommended.
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MYTH
Cuisine: French Californian
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Downtown |
12/13/2006
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We could've eaten 2 dozen raw oysters... each! Freshly shucked oysters are plumb, briny, and oh-so-good. Grab a beer to wash down your meal and watch the ferries cruise in and out of the pier. If 2 dozen aren't enough for you, ask the friendly staff about purchasing a bushel straight from the purveyor. And I think M-Th "happy hour" the oysters are $1 each!!! Call first or view website to verify. I'm definitely a huge fan of their clam chowder, not really a thick chowder but more like soup with a heaping pile of shell-on clams and a creamy, buttery broth. It comes out piping hot. Perfect for these chilly SF nights and foggy afternoons.
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Hog Island Oyster Company
Cuisine: Oysters Seafood American (Traditional)
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Embarcadero |
12/13/2006
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this is pretty much the only to-go dim sum place I've been to in the city and honestly the only one I go to. Yes, there is always a huge line, the place is a bit unkept but I do hope sanitary and the ladies behind the counter know how to give it to you if you've reached the front of the line and haven't the slightest idea what you want. Note: take a pink menu upon entering and circle what you want. I know you want to look at all the delicious morsels before buying but trust me, just circle, order, then eat because the chance that everything will be GOOD is pretty much high. This is a really delish dim sum spot!
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Good Luck Dim Sum
Cuisine: Dim Sum Chinese
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Inner Richmond |
12/13/2006
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This place has been around forever! I know. I've been going here for probably over 20 years! It hasn't changed a bit in my opinion. Ramen is still tasty and the portion is huge. There's a lady in there that has been working for over 20 years! We asked. Obviously, she is an owner. I like the miso ramen even though the broth can be somewhat thick and salty. The tempura is good, crispy, average. I've had the maguro sashimi and it hits the spot also. And I love the pickled cabbage they give you as an appetizer. I can't get enough of it. I always go here when I want to be full on a tight budget, plus to bring back a little piece of nostalgia.
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Sapporo-Ya
Cuisine: Japanese Noodle Shops
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Japantown |
12/13/2006
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When the sun is out on one of those rare SF days, preferably weekend days, I often find myself here. And I don't really know why. The food is average, nothing at all special about it. It's often too crowded. And there are so many other places that are much better in the area. But I seem to be drawn to it by some unapparent force in the universe when the weather is nice to have a beer and a sandwich.
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The Grove
Cuisine: American Bistro Coffee Shops
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Pacific Heights |
12/13/2006
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Boom is a gem and you get your hard earned money's worth. A friend and I went to lunch and only spent about $30 bucks and were stuffed! At another sushi place down the road I spent $35 for lunch just by myself. The overall menu is basic but if you sit at the bar and get to know the sushi makers a bit, I'm sure you can coerce them into making something special for you.
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Sushi Boom
Cuisine: Japanese Sushi
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Japantown |
12/13/2006
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My eyes are bigger than my stomach -- I always come here on the break of starvation because the portions are huge and I never seem to finish what's on my plate. I don't know if it's the most authentic place but it sure is filling. I always end up getting a bowl of guacamole to dip my fresh chips in and at least one, if not 2, of those bad-ass margaritas.
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Tommy's Mexican Restaurant
Cuisine: mexican
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Outer Richmond |
12/13/2006
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Their Griddle cakes are heaven! Almost like a pancake, almost like a crepe – light, fluffy, full of great flavor. Mmm mmm. They have this huckleberry sauce or blueberry sauce that is served with it that is also very drool worthy. Eggs benedict (of course) with mushroom gravy and grits were also very tasty. They also serve Blue Bottle Coffee which in my opinion is one of the best coffees in San Francisco. I have not been for dinner yet but with good ‘ole Southern comfort cuisine being served, I will be awaiting my next visit very eagerly.
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Farmerbrown
Cuisine: Soul Food
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Downtown |
12/13/2006
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Easily tempted by any restaurant that serves brunch, this one was not easy to resist. They have an array of THEE quintessential brunch lovely - eggs benedict. Trying to figure out how my benedict should be configured was not easy either. The possibilities are endless. I chose it topped with crab cakes and a caper hollandaise on baguette. They also have a ‘do it yourself' bloody mary bar with several tomato juices, hot sauces and garnishes to choose from. Buttermilk biscuits with sausage gravy and Mimosas are also other great options. A DJ also spins music to keep you grooving in the spatial, warehouse setting. I will be back.
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levende lounge
Cuisine: american (new) fusion brunch
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Mission |
12/13/2006
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Getting to this place is a total nightmare. It's in the middle of the tenderloin in a very very sketchy area. This place has no delivery even though they left the menu on my front door, so you have to go and pick it up. Parking can be difficult. Proceed with caution if you decide to go after dark. Even though the location could be better, the food is good. We got an array of just about everything. The Combo Platter is huge and comes with hummus, eggplant salad, dolmades, tahini, and some more stuff. We also had Doner which is like gyro - made with beef sirloin and spiced lamb, roasted vertical then thinly sliced. My favorite dish is the Alexander Kebap which consists of small cubes of bread in a light tomato sauce with doner strips then topped with a touch of butter and yogurt. Sounds like an odd combo but it was delicious – kinda reminded me of a panzanelle salad – but it was prob the butter that made it amazing!
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Ala Turka
Cuisine: Mediterranean Turkish
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Tenderloin |
12/13/2006
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We had the 7 course Chef's tasting Menu which is a lot of food. My companion had food allergies which altered the menu so slightly. I don't, claiming I will eat anything they put in front of me. They still accommodated both of us to perfection. Though for the price we paid, the food wasn't exactly on a mind-blowing, gastronomic, epicurean bliss level as we would've liked it to be. But completely bursting at the seams we left ever so happy and in a definite state of food coma euphoria. Service was not snooty as you might think with its caliber and high ratings. It's not overzealous, nor do you notice anyone staring you down to refill waters or remove plates before you can even finish chewing that last bite. It's very genuine and friendly. It's wonderful and I cannot express enough how great everyone and everything was. Particularly enjoyed an array of cheeses, large servings of 2 cow, 2 goat, 2 sheep from the gorgeous cart. It may even surpass the infamous one at Danko. Thanks!!!
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Cyrus Restaurant
Cuisine: French (New) Asian
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Healdsburg |
12/5/2006
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No wonder it takes just about 2-months to score a reservation. The price is pretty reasonable for all they offer. Places in Chicago and NYC cost a lot more. It's not cheap but a great value for one of the best and most respected in the world! One thing though, service can be pompous at times. There was this snot of a captain --- I don't want to name names and I do remember who you are --- he was like a robot, seriously! Immediately I felt uncomfortable. It was like he was going over some script in his head, not faltering from any of his well rehearsed lines or motions. And the terrible thing was that I knew him, at least on a professional level. It still irks me to this day. Maybe he was nervous, but I highly doubt it. Not everyone is like that but if you get him you'll know it right away. Restaurant GD still gives me the heebie-jeebies just thinking of that. Otherwise, everything else was perfect and delicious!!!
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GARY DANKO
Cuisine: American (New)
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Fishermans Wharf |
12/5/2006
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Skip Mel's or IHop or whatever else is open at 2AM – avoid the crowd at Grubstake. When you need something solid in your belly after binging on a liquid diet for the past 4 hours only a greasy spoon will help alleviate the situation. Attentive service is usually always friendly even when you have that one annoying drunk person in your group. French fries come out lightly crisp, more blonde than golden brown, deep fried cheese sticks are hot with molten strings, onion rings are crisp and plentiful, and saucy chicken wings are fall off the bone tender. It's not gourmet and probably not even that worthy but the standards help sober things up for the desperately intoxicated. They also serve full breakfasts, burgers with all the fixings, a huge array of eggs benedicts, salads and milkshakes. I usually opt for the deep fried lovelies then call it a night with food coma kicking in shortly after.
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Cafe Mason
Cuisine: Coffee Shops/Diners
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Tenderloin |
11/29/2006
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Ah yes, bubbly. I'm a big fan of almost anything that's sparkly. A lovely selection from expense account worthy by the bottles to the moderate lovelies by the glass. Service is attentive, though can be slow when there is a large crowd present. Maybe they couldn't see us since it's so dark in there. I wasn't a huge fan of the food menu or at least the sushi plates but they do have all the traditional items like Osetra caviar on buttery blinis with crème fraiche, smoked salmon, and freshly shucked oysters, different cheeses and chocolate!
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The Bubble Lounge Champagne Bar
Cuisine: Small Plates Dessert
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Downtown |
11/28/2006
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I love the idea of creating your own gourmet salad. Love all the fresh ingredients that aren't so ‘typical' in many other salad bars. The duck confit however tasted like smoked, shredded duck rather than the slathered and fried in your own fat version. I usually go for a combination of mixed greens with a plethora of yummy accoutrements like goat cheese, fresh blackberries (if avail), and walnuts. Price is a bit high but you pay for quantity (they are large) and the ever-so important organic value.
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Mixt Greens
Cuisine: Californian
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Downtown |
11/28/2006
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Great lunch spot though you do need to take it back to the office or sit out somewhere close by to enjoy. Basically, it's a create your own salad place (the salmon is wonderful but they sell out quickly) create your own sandwich place (using their focaccia bread which is more like a big roll) or create your own hot food plate place. Hot food faves are the mac & cheese, very rich and cheesy. They mix in scallions (at least the one I had) which gives it a fresh flavor. Oh and next time, go next door where it's a make your own burger place. Well not really – you can pick your patty, bun, toppings, etc. They serve fresh cut skin on fries which tend to be soggy but are still tasty! Excellent turkey burger.
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Focaccia Cafe & Bakery
Cuisine: Deli Bakeries
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Embarcadero |
11/28/2006
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The food is happiness for any foodie or anyone who loves to eat good food. I know I was quite pleased. I didn't win a prize here but ventured upon it after hearing about it's recent renovation. I'm crossing my fingers in hopes that I get one of those prizes here ... someday ... sometime soon, maybe, please. The cafe is absolutely gorgeous and may possibly be one of the best kept secrets in the dining industry in the Bay Area. The food is delicious and all the menu items emulate that of 4 star restaurants. Just look at the pictures! I enjoyed the kobe steak with bone marrow as well as tastes of the filet minon with blue cheese butter ... drool. Oh and the potato gratin is so good it's down-right sinful with all that rich cream and cheese. The coffee and donuts were a big hit as well as they are dusted with granulated sugar instead of confectioners which gives great texture. I love this place and it's my new favorite!
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Cafe Majestic
Cuisine: American (New)
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Pacific Heights |
11/21/2006
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This is a gem. I've been on numerous occasions and am always delighted by the pomegrante chicken. It's marinated and perhaps braised which makes the meat ultra tender and flavorful. We always get the mezze platter too which is full of everyone's favorites: dolmades, hummus, Baba Ghanoush, these great phylo wrapped chicken and spinach/feta bundles of goodness, pepperoncini, etc. Tasty and tender pita bread. The place is on the small side so it's easy to feel cramped and be cramped. Service is hospitable though at times can be stark as it's a busy restaurant.
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La Mediterranee
Cuisine: Middle Eastern Mediterranean
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Upper Fillmore |
11/21/2006
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Pee-eww, smells like dive bar! That was our initial experience and first impression. However, your nose gets used to it and no longer does it smell like stale beer. So, yes, I've had many a good Guinness and Boddington's here but this time I actually ate something. Good ole' Irish comfort food! Fish and Chips with coleslaw and thick cut fries, Beef and Barley soup, Bangers and Mash, Cottage Pie (I know it as Sheppard's). Also a selection of burgers and sandwiches. Service was attentive and quick for our table of 8 ppl and food was decent, more so on the good side. I was impressed as I've read that the food can be average.
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Johnny Foley's Irish House
Cuisine: Irish Pub Food
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Downtown |
11/21/2006
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I had a lovely experience here! Bong Su means plumeria flower according to our server who gave me one on our way out! I asked as I was curiousn what the name meant. Service was top notch and though some people may think this place is trying to be like The Slanted Door, it is not. I seem to think it is more delightful and more humbling as sometimes 'door' can be overrated. Some of the delicious items we enjoyed on this visit were the salt and pepper calamari w a cilantro emulsion dipping sauce; Grilled Pork chops marinated in lemongrass and soy; Lemongrass Bass that is pan seared, served w cold mango noodle salad. Everything had great balance and flavor. The restaurant is huge as it once was a Mel's diner. Bong Su does a great job with the decor making it very intimate and seductive.
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Bong Su Restaurant & Lounge
Cuisine: Vietnamese
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SoMa |
11/21/2006
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I returned to Salt House expecting good things considering my first time was when they first opened, eh not so great. This time my expectations were met with complete awe. The re-do of the menu was excellent and well executed. On this visit we had a lovely selection of oysters with mignonette, fresh horseradish and c***tail sauce; the salad with toasted hazelnuts and spiced pears; the Sautéed scallops and Tai Snapper – both were incredible. The favorite of the evening was the Dungeness Crab Salad that was literally nothing but crab meat with an amazing dressing. The wine list also has a great selection to choose from and a favorable list by the glass. If you're not sure what you want, tell your server your likes and dislikes and they will be happy to choose something divine for you. This could end up being my favorite place in the city!
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Salt House
Cuisine: American
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SoMa |
11/21/2006
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I try to avoid Union Square as much as I can. It's so touristy and all the restaurants are usually packed. Cheesecake Factory is a place I really try to avoid and Michael Mina is too expensive for just a casual thing. But on many occasions after shopping with pals from out of town or taking my parents on their billion-th tour of the city, we usually end up here. I must admit this place is pretty good. Always experience great service, lively atmosphere. The food has always been a hit too. Love the frito misto and Belvedere martinis. Its also great for apps and cocktails.
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Scala's Bistro
Cuisine: French Italian
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Downtown |
11/17/2006
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A nice thing about this place is that it stays open late. Even if you go around midnight, you're sure to get exceptional service and great tasting food. Ordered the strugeon pizza, which was alright. Not exceptional but had good flavors. I might not be a fan of sturgeon, in general - i don't know. It didn't impress me. But if they ever bring it back on the menu b4 it get's banned, the seared foie gras is decadent - tender, flavorful, smoky- paired with a perfect sauce. I swear it melts in your mouth and must've been the best seared foie I've ever had!!!
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Tablespoon
Cuisine: American (New)
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Polk St./Van Ness |
11/17/2006
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First off, I am not really into bbq. (I know, I know - and I'm reviewing a bbq place - don't judge). Secondly, I'm not a fan of sweet, thick, stick to your ribs (literally), all over your face type sauces. I'm more into the vinegar ones. But overall, I actually enjoyed this place, somewhat. I especially like the baked beans- not too sweet and nothing unusual floating around in it. Lot's of food comes on the 2-combo! Couldn't even eat it all. The pork ribs were good but on my batch, instead of falling off the bone and melting in my mouth -- the meat just annoyingly got stick in my teeth. It's also open on Mondays, when some of the other bbq joints are closed. I thought it was much better than Memphis Minnies.
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Big Nate's BBQ
Cuisine: Barbecue BBQ
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SoMa |
11/17/2006
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I am in love with this place. From the moment we walked in, everything was gracious and enjoyable. Staff- friendly. Atmosphere- lovely. Food- decadent. Everytime i dine out "french", i always try the specialty's of the house. They did not disappoint. Coq au Vin, steak tartare, charcuterie plate and escargot a la bourguignonne- if you've never had escargot before - ever, experience them here. They are divine!!!
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Cafe Claude
Cuisine: French (Bistro)
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Downtown |
11/17/2006
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This place has yet to fail. I am a huge fan and frequent often. mac'n cheese is always on the menu, as is the french style open face burger - cooked to order, smothered in gorgonzola and grilled onions with frites. It's a favorite, as well as the steak tartare. The wine is a great bargain by the bottle. Brunch is also a highlight and consists of lovely lunch items, french omletes and baked eggs. Fresh tomato juice is used in the bloody marys! I highly recommend this gem!
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Le Petit Robert
Cuisine: French (Bistro)
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Russian Hill |
11/17/2006
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I like its kitchy, mismatched decor - makes it seem more homey - I guess that's the point - to compliment its down-home comfort food. I always end up at a table with too much wobble resulting in the use of some handy sugar packets. Tator-tots - crispy, a tad seasoned- are a delight. They bring me back to the yester years of grade school - pondering up all sorts of nostalgia. It's not particularly a place I'd make a special trip to. The food (besides the tots) didn't impress me all too much. I don't think dinner would be in my line-up but brunch is great - I love the eggs benedict and Mr. Espresso coffee.
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Q Restaurant
Cuisine: American (New)
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Inner Richmond |
11/17/2006
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Loved the salsa bar - though from reading about it over and over again, I thought it was going to be so grand it would blow my mind away. It wasn't what I was expecting but they had a large selection - about 10 or so different kinds. The Cucumber, Mango and Avocado salsas were my faves. The hot ones were true to their word - spicy! The carnitas was great - tender, moist, not salty like many other places. And the carne asada also tender and flavorful.
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Tlaloc
Cuisine: South American Mexican
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Downtown |
11/17/2006
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Mmm. Everything was superb. We couldn't find any fault with anything and we were thinking hard about it. Great service. Great atmosphere. Fabulous food. We had the foie gras tourchon - flavorful, buttery, came with mariniated figs; sardines - not fishy or mushy, good texture, accompanied with lemon, butter, & olive tepenade; tarte flambee with onions and bacon, drizzle of creme fraiche - crispy, lots of toppings. Frisee aux lardoons salad was generously portioned with thick crisp chunks of bacon. Duck confit with medallions of potatoes was delicious; skirt steak with frites - seared perfectly med-rare with crispy fries - ordered a side of the saffron aioli for dipping. Desserts were the creamy hazelut profiteroles and il Flotante with slivers of toasted almonds - both tasty. We will definitely be back to try other specialties we didn't have enough room for.
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Cafe De La Presse
Cuisine: French (Bistro)
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Downtown |
11/17/2006
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The food is good. Not as great as being in Thailand, but still tasty. I over indulged. Pineapple duck curry --- moist, flavorful, presented in a hollowed out half of an actual pineapple - such a whimsical presentation. Scallops in yellow curry with potatoes and bok choy --- this was really tasty too, that is if you don't mind the scallops being battered, then fried, and placed in the sauce --- not really what I was expecting --- I didn't eat the fried batter but popped out my scallop instead. Oh, but the best part, and you have to order this if you're dining with friends --- get the chef's appetizer platter --- you get all the best first courses: summer rolls, fried spring rolls, chicken satay, spicy pork cakes, toasted coconut spinach wraps, and THEE best mango salad I have ever had! I am also a huge peanut sauce fan and it did not disappoint. cocktails seemed off though. Lemongrass Gimlet ---really, really tart and the Bangkok Punch was too too sweet. Service was nice and friendly.
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Koh Samui and the Monkey
Cuisine: Thai
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SoMa |
11/17/2006
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Terrific spot for lunch and never had to wait, considering we went on a Tuesday afternoon. The place is low-key and no-fuss. Great small plates to share. The bread is amazing and the service is just as exceptional and friendly. Clink your glasses to good food and friends with some fruity sangria.
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Chez Nous
Cuisine: Mediterranean Small Plates
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Pacific Heights |
11/17/2006
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A definite cure for a hangover, but note that food-coma will take place shortly after you finish. Lot's of different burgers to choose from. You can create your own with additions such as extra bacon and cheese. The curly fries come straight from the bag, are flash fried and accompanied with a ranch sauce. Service can be good or bad.
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Barney's Gourmet Hamburger
Cuisine: Hamburgers
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Marina |
11/17/2006
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Great neighborhood eatery. We sat at the bar. Service was polite and prompt. We observed the open kitchen. Loved the mezza platter, especially the artichokes with lemon and garlic. Ohmigawd! I think I have dreams about the artichokes. The lemon peel and garlic are so tender and moist. Not at all what I was expecting. I want the recipe. Anyone have it??? The mojitos are good here, too.
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paul k
Cuisine: Mediterranean
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Hayes Valley |
11/17/2006
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The ambiance and architecture is gorgeous, just as if you were swept away into a French-Vietnamese villa. I've always had drinks here and recently, I stayed for the food. The food was everything we expected. Seared foie gras, papaya salad with prawns and jellyfish, striped bass ceviche, crispy rolls with shrimp and crab. If you can't get a table, dine at the bar. They offer their full menu there, plus you can snuggle up with your sweetie on a cozy sofa tucked away in the corner as you sip on mango mojitos. And weekend jazz makes it all the better.
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ANA MANDARA
Cuisine: French (New) Vietnamese
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Fishermans Wharf |
11/17/2006
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