How to Explore San Francisco's Best Restaurants

San Francisco is a city that prides itself on its restaurants, from the countless Italian eateries in North Beach to authentic Asian restaurants in Chinatown and elsewhere. Whether you’re seeking superb seafood or tracking down some compelling contemporary cuisine, you’ll likely be impressed by the quality of the city’s best eating options.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. The ambience is elegant, the food flawless, at the Empress of China on Grant Street. Its locale on the sixth floor means amazing views as well, but the real treat here is the array of regional specialties ranging from Peking Duck to Manchurian Beef.

2. While there are glitzier and more expensive choices all over the city, the best seafood in town is actually found at a spartan establishment on Polk Street. The Swan Oyster Depot is little more than a boisterous fish market with bar seating, but the seafood is as fresh off the docks and perfectly prepared without any pretense.

3. When it comes to Italian, head to the lively North Beach neighborhood, a bastion of Italiano culture and cuisine. Garlic lovers will embrace The Stinking Rose on Columbus, a hip and upbeat eatery that is often packed to the gills; Mona Lisa, just up the street, serves authentic Southern Italian in an equally colorful setting.

4. Continental fare might not be the first cuisine you’d associate with San Francisco, but it does have several establishments renowned for theirs. One Market, near the Ferry Building, is arguably the best—with farm-fresh ingredients and an imaginative menu ranging from the Pancetta-wrapped Day Boat Scallops to Cocoa-rubbed Liberty Farms Duck Breast.

5. If you’re foraging for fantastic French fare, look no further than Fleur De Lys on Sutter Street, a regal and romantic restaurant that is worthy of a splurge. From appetizers like the Creamy Chestnut Soup to main fare such as Hawaiian Prawns on Fennel Confit to desserts like the Classic Grand Marnier Soufflé, your taste buds will be in heaven the entire meal.

6. Even non-vegetarians will appreciate the delicious meat-free offerings at Greens, located in a former warehouse in the Fort Mason Center by San Francisco’s Marina district. While the menu changes frequently, you’ll always find only the finest (and freshest) regional ingredients, wonderful baked goods and an up-close view of the bay.

7. For a casual dining experience focused on Spanish-style small plates (aka "tapas"), drop by Bocadillos on Montgomery Street in the Financial District. Thai Snapper Ceviche, Serrano Ham with Tomato Rub and Baby Back Ribs with a Sherry Glaze are but a small sampling of the numerous delicacies you’ll savor here.

8. While it's difficult to categorize, there's no doubt that Restaurant Gary Danko on North Point (at Hyde) serves some of the best food in San Francisco. Showcasing dynamic seasonal dishes ranging from roast lobster to lamb loin, the sleek and stylish establishment offers a tremendous wine and cheese selection as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Those venturing into the East Bay on their San Francisco visit should indulge at Chez Panisse on Berkeley's Shattuck Avenue, the birthplace of "California Cuisine."
• If you're heading north to the Napa Valley, consider a stop at the heralded French Laundry in Yountville, with delicious meals that make the sometimes standoffish service bearable.

[CyndiLou]

on 2/11/2008 Great Article! Being a food snob in San Francisco I completely agree with your choices... you have excellent taste!

[diggitydogg]

on 1/24/2008 Great article with a lot of good tips!