23 minute read
Flavor Marsala
Back to California
Chef Brittney Adamo discovered her culinary path in Fairfax.
AWINE BAR ENTHUSIAST’S dream, Fairfax’s 123 Bolinas features cheese and charcuterie boards, small plates, large plates and pizza — all made of ingredients from local markets and artisans — expertly paired with selections from a lengthy list of small-batch sustainably made wine and local beer. In the kitchen is Brittney Adamo, a chef who grew up toeing the line between “helping” and “pestering” in her family’s restaurants in Northern California, New Zealand and Hawaii. “My family shares my passion for food, and if we aren’t cooking or eating, we’re talking about either our next culinary endeavor or our other passion, which is traveling,” she says. After moving back to California to get her degree in film and marketing, Adamo found she could not ignore her inner chef, a calling made more compelling by the abundance of fresh produce available in Marin. Soon, she found herself at 123 Bolinas, a restaurant she says reflects her desire to create sustainable, seasonal local fare. “Northern California is an excellent place to be a chef,” she says. “Some days in the restaurant are too easy, other days rough — it’s a very emotional practice for me — but then stone fruit, fungi or a new allium comes into season and excitement refuels my passion all over again.” Here, Adamo shares a recipe for an indulgent autumnal treat. 123bolinas.com CALIN VAN PARIS
RECIPE
Marsala Mushroom and Squash Galette
SERVES 2
Ingredients
1¼ cups flour ½ teaspoon salt ½ cup cold butter, diced V cup ice-cold water 4 tablespoons olive oil ½ medium onion, diced 1 tablespoon garlic, chopped ½ pound fresh mushrooms, chopped 1 teaspoon each chopped sage and thyme Salt and pepper 1 tablespoon flour for filling O cup Marsala wine 1 cup vegetable stock 1 delicata or other winter squash 1 egg
To Prepare
1 Combine flour and salt in food processor. Add butter and pulse 10 times or until crumbly. Add water and continue pulsing until mixture holds together when pressed. If too dry, add more water. 2 Remove onto a clean surface and shape dough into ball or disc. Wrap with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least an hour. 3 Meanwhile, add 3 tablespoons olive oil to a hot saucepan or pot on medium-high heat. Add onions, garlic and mushrooms and sauté until tender. Add herbs, salt, pepper and flour. 4 Stir for a minute, then deglaze (scrape off the browned bits) the pan with Marsala wine until bubbling. Add vegetable stock and cook until thickened. 5 During this time, remove seeds from squash and slice it into thin rounds. Place on baking pan with 1 tablespoon olive oil and bake in oven at 450°F for 10 minutes or until golden. 6 Roll out dough onto flour-dusted surface into a circle about V inch thick. Transfer to baking sheet and add layer of squash, a large spoonful of mushroom mixture and another layer of squash on top, leaving about an inch of a dough border. Carefully fold the dough around the filling, making little pleats at the edges. 7 Lightly beat the egg and brush on the pastry. 8 Place galette in oven and bake until golden, about 50 minutes.
pizzettas. 1335 Fourth St, 415.460.1335, odalisquecafe.com
PANAMA HOTEL RESTAURANT
American The dinner menu offers a large selection of options — from tortilla soup to wild mushroom raviolis — but it’s the Sunday brunch menu that will keep the kids happy; try the Panama Waffle served with bananas, warm chocolate sauce and whipped cream, along with a pitcher of “make-your-own” mimosas for the adults. The tropical garden is a prime spot for people watching. 4 Bayview St, 415.457.3993, panamahotel.com PHO VIET Vietnamese This family-owned restaurant features food from the former chef of Le Cheval in Oakland. The large menu offers a wide variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes at affordable prices. 555 E. Francisco Blvd, 415.455.8063, phovietmarin.com
PIZZA ORGASMICA
American Enjoy indulgent favorites like the Serpent’s Kiss or Inspiration Point pies with a crisp beer, Orgasmica style. Eat in or order a halfbaked pizza to cook and enjoy at home. 812 Fourth St, 415.457.2337, pizzaorgasmica.com RANGE CAFE American With floor-to-ceiling windows positioned overlooking the grand Peacock Gap lawns, the Range Cafe is the perfect place to enjoy comforting American classics with an elegant twist. This inviting lunchtime cafe makes a great dinner spot once the sun sets. 333 Biscayne Dr, 415.454.6450, rangecafe.net
RISTORANTE LA
TOSCANA Italian Family owned and operated since 1985, La Toscana Ristorante & Bar has completed an extensive interior and exterior renovation, transforming this already popular San Rafael restaurant and bar into an environment for any gathering or occasion. The menu features classics like gnocchi and carbonara, as well as a selection of wine. 3751 Redwood Hwy, 415.492.9100, ristorantelatoscana.com
SAN RAFAEL JOE’S
Italian Guido and Theresa Farina run this Marin institution, famous for sophisticated yet casual Italian fare since 1947. The dining room boasts a friendly atmosphere and seating for 240, making it great for large parties. The roast sirloin of beef and Fettuccine Joe’s are sure to please. 931 Fourth St, 415.456.2425, srjoes.com SOL FOOD Puerto Rican Fast becoming a Marin legend, Sol Food whips up traditional Puerto Rican dishes just like the ones owner Sol Hernandez grew up eating. Favorites include the bistec sandwich, mofongo and fried plantains, but anything tastes good with a dash of the eatery’s signature hot sauce, which is for sale by the bottle (as is the lemon-garlic salad dressing). 901 Lincoln Ave, 415.451.4765, solfoodrestaurant.com
Beauty. Simplicity. Creativity. The elegance of clean, modern design. Free gift-wrapping. Attentive, experienced sales staff. All this plus thousands of handcrafted designer gifts for your home and tabletop, wearable art, jewelry, and much more await you at Terrestra in downtown Mill Valley. Featuring the largest-in-USA selection of fine leather goods from Mywalit of Lucca, Italy. Wish granted. Terrestra | San Francisco | Mill Valley
30 MILLER AVENUE ■ 415 -384-8330 ■ TERRESTRA.COM
HOME FURNISHINGS
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SANTA ROSA
Courthouse Square • 529 4th Street • 707-568-4044
SANTA ROSA
Open To The Public Warehouse • 3499 Industrial Dr. • 707-570-2341
DOWNTOWN PETALUMA
21 Washington Street • 707-763-9200 SOLANA BEACH
Cedros Design District • 412 South Cedros • 858-481-4341
Vegetarian Benedict
SUSHI TO DAI FOR
Japanese Snagging a seat in this popular Fourth Street sushi spot can be a challenge, but patience is rewarded with tasty and fresh sashimi, unique sushi rolls and great prices. 816 Fourth St, 415.721.0392 TAJ OF MARIN Indian Delicious North and South Indian cuisine, from the $8.95 lunch special to dinners that include goat curry, spinach, lentils and tandoori. Gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options available. 909 Fourth St, 415.459.9555, tajofmarin.com
TERRAPIN CROSSROADS
American This waterfront restaurant and music venue — opened by local musician Phil Lesh — houses fresh food and local talent. The menu includes salads, savory dishes and wood-fired pizzas to go with a wide selection of beers, wines and cocktails. Come for the food, stay for the music. 100 Yacht Club Dr, 415.524.2773, terrapin crossroads.net
THERESA & JOHNNY’S COMFORT FOOD
American A favorite of everyone from kids to the foodie set, this charming eatery serves up food like Mom used to make. Drop by for eggs Benedict, tuna melts, coffee and some of the best milk shakes around. 817 Fourth St, 415.259.0182, theresa-and-johnnys.com TOMATINA Italian Inspired by the La Tomatina festival in Bunol, Spain, Tomatina offers fresh pizza, pastas and more. For a classic Italian dish, try meatball calzone, or think outside the box with a hummus piadina. 5800 Northgate Mall, 52, 415.479.3200, tomatina.com
VIN ANTICO American This resurrected restaurant offers seasonal market-inspired cuisine like stone oven-baked flatbreads, handmade pasta and organic salads. The kitchen is open to the dining room, so try to snag a seat at the chef’s counter.881 Fourth St, 415.721.0600, vinantico.com
WHIPPER SNAPPER RESTAURANT
California/Caribbean Owner and chef Bill Higgins serves reasonably priced and delicious tapas. Save room for delicious fish tacos and yummy chocolate bread pudding. On Sundays, try the $3 glasses of sangria. 1613 Fourth St, 415.256.1818, whipsnap.biz
SAUSALITO
AURORA RISTORANTE
& PIZZERIA Italian Novato’s Aurora finally has a counterpart in southern Marin. Aurora offers traditional Italian food, a full bar and friendly service, making it a great option for families, groups, dates and sports enthusiasts. 300 Valley St, 415.339.8930, aurora-sausalito.com • GRAZIE CAFE Italian Locals visit this family-ownedand-run restaurant for delicious paninis, salads and the unbeatable homemade cookies. Soak in the sun on the outdoor patio or revel in some people-watching inside the always-bustling cafe. 823 Grant Ave, Ste E, 415.879.5181
BAR BOCCE American Food just tastes better when you’re dining on a bayside patio with fire pits and a bocce ball court. Order one of the sourdough bread pizzas and a glass of wine, and you’ll see why this casual eatery, overseen by Robert Price of Buckeye and Bungalow 44, has become a local favorite. 1250 Bridgeway, 415.331.0555, barbocce.com
BARREL HOUSE
TAVERN California Stop by Barrel House for great local food enhanced by fantastic bay and city views. The relaxed urban envrionment is ideal for enjoying one of the restaurant’s barrel-aged cocktails. 660 Bridgeway, 415.729.9593, barrelhousetavern.com
BIO French Enjoy fresh crepes and a bevy of fresh, glutenfree options at this casual eatery. Stop by for breakfast, lunch or dinner to sample omelets, galettes, duck confit or beef bourguignon. 2633 Bridgeway, 415.324.7080, biologiquesf.com CIBO Cafe Located in a historic brick building on Sausalito’s main drag, Cibo is a great place to a sip a quick cup of coffee outdoors. Husband-and-wife team Alfredo and Tera Ancona offer a menu of tarts, croissants, cookies, paninis and soups. Every dish is made from scratch with local and seasonal products. 1201 Bridgeway, 415.331.2426, cibosausalito.com
COPITA Mexican Chef Joanne Weir serves up fresh Mexican fare in the heart of downtown Sausalito. The ever-changing menu is always 100% glutenfree, and the in-house tequila bar offers over 30 varieties, available blanco, reposado or añejo. 739 Bridgeway, 415.331.7400, copita restaurant.com DARIO’S PIZZA Italian Founded in 1972, Dario’s continues to dish up classic Italian calzones, pasta and pizza. Have a pie delivered, or munch on cheesy garlic bread at one of the restaurant’s cozy wooden tables. 2829 Bridgeway, 415.332.6636. dariosrestaurant.net
DAVEY JONES DELI
American Stationed in the New Bait Shop Market, Davey Jones Deli boasts houseroasted sandwich meats, healthy condiments and local, organic vegetables. The deli offers sandwiches, veggiewiches, wraps and salads with vegetarian, vegan and meat-lover options. 1 Gate 6 Rd, 415.331.2282, daveyjonesdeli.com
FAST FOOD FRANCAIS
French Owned and operated by the owners of Le Garage and L’Appart Resto, F3 serves brunch, lunch and dinner, all featuring “Frenchified” American comfort food. Sample a rotating menu including items like the Luxe burger (Diestel turkey, brie, lettuce and a fried egg topped with truffle aioli). Enjoy with a side of Brussels sprout chips or pomme dauphines (tater tots). 39 Caledonia St, 415.887.9047, eatf3.com FENG NIAN Chinese This spacious hangout has been a popular spot for wonton soup, pot stickers and daily specials for nearly two decades. For an indulgent treat, order the Szechwan crispy calamari, honey-glazed walnut prawn or lemon chicken. Staying in? Feng Nian offers free delivery. Free delivery.
2650 Bridgeway, 415.331.5300, fengnian.com FISH. Seafood The ultimate place to head for freshly caught fare. Order the fish tacos, ceviche and a bottle of wine and take in bay views and air on the deck. Casual; bring cash (lots of it!). 350 Harbor Dr, 415.331.3474, 331fish.co KITTI’S PLACE Thai/ California Owner Kitti Suthipipiat was the cook at Comforts in San Anselmo for many years and brings a certain knack for delicious Chinese chicken salad to her own endeavor. The regular menu items are sure to please, but try the weekly specials as well. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.331.0390, kittisplace.com LE GARAGE French Escape tourist-filled Sausalito for an indulgent brunch right on the water. The atmosphere is animated with light French music (á la Amélie), and the much-adored croquemonsieur is under $10. Opt for indoor or outdoor seating. 85 Liberty Ship Way, 415.332.5625, legaragebistro sausalito.com
MURRAY CIRCLE
American Cavallo Point’s acclaimed restaurant, features local seasonal fare by executive chef Justin Everett, with pairings from an extensive wine list and tempting desserts. Don’t forget to visit Farley Bar for cocktails with a view. 601 Murray Circle, 415.339.4750, cavallopoint.com
NAPA VALLEY BURGER
COMPANY American Incorporating local, all-natural and organic produce and meats, this burger joint serves up classic and inventive gourmet patties (gluten-free buns available), fries, root beer floats and more. With outdoor and indoor tables, the space can accommodate up to 100 people. 670 Bridgeway, 415.332.1454, napavalleyburgercom pany.com POGGIO Italian A classic trattoria with comfortable neighborhood charm and destination-caliber cuisine. Executive chef Benjamin Balesteri creates delicious Northern Italian fare using fresh and local ingredients, including produce from the nearby Poggio chef garden. 777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771, poggiotratoria.com SALITO’S Seafood Enjoy a cocktail or a signature dishes like whole roasted Dungeness crab, housemade kettle bread served with Straus butter and sizzling iron skillets of mussels in a casual, whimsical ambience 1200 Bridgeway, 415.331.3226, salitoscrabhouse.com
SAYLOR’S RESTAURANT AND
BAR Mexican Marin’s first tequila bar offers more than 100 varieties. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with a margarita, grilled snapper tacos or an avocado stuffed with Dungeness crab salad. Happy hour M-F from 4 to 7 p.m. 2009 Bridgeway, 415.332.1512, saylorsrestaurantand bar.com info@webberstudio.com
Ricotta Ravioli
SEAFOOD PEDDLER
Seafood A great place to seek out fresh seafood in a warm and inviting environment. East and West Coast fish are flown in daily, and the recipes are adjusted to accommodate the freshest options. 303 Johnson St, 415.332.1492, seafoodpeddler.com SUSHI RAN Japanese Sample innovative small plates just big enough to share before enjoying some of the best sushi the Bay Area has to offer; the prices don’t deter the herd of enthusiasts who line up nightly to partake. Just stopping by? The wine, cocktail and sake lists keep even the pickiest barfly satisfied. Reservations are required in the main room. 107 Caledonia St, 415.332.3620, sushiran.com
SWEET GINGER
Japanese Owners and chefs Edna and Wayne Ching know their way around good sushi. Try fresh sashimi, the classic dragon roll, 49ers Roll or Rock ’N’ Roll, or be adventurous and have Wayne whip you up something off he menu. Good sake and a comfortable setting round out the reasonably priced meal. 400 Caledonia St, 415.332.1683, sweet gingersausalito.com THE TRIDENT Seafood Set in a turn-of-thecentury building constructed in 1898 for the San Francisco Yacht Club, this waterfront restaurant is a shoe-in for date night. Executive chef James Montejano — known for supporting local farmers, fishermen and organic food producers — prepares dishes • BRICK & BOTTLE California From private parties to catered events, chef Bob Simontacchi’s menu offers seasonal selections made with local ingredients. Enjoy signature dishes like orzo mac ‘n’ cheese with smoked Gouda and local favorites like saffron fettucine and tomato braised short ribs. The restaurant also hosts one of the best happy hours in town. 55 Tamal Vista Blvd, 415.924.3366, brickandbottle.com
like Sugar Spice Grilled Loch Duart Salmon and Trident Cioppino. 558 Bridgeway, 415.331.3232, thetridentsausalito.com
TIBURON
CAPRICE California Book the private party room for large groups, or just relax in this romantic dinner spot. Take advantage of the restaurant’s well-priced three-course dinners for less than $25, and don’t miss Prime Rib Mondays. 2000 Paradise Dr, 415.435.3400, thecaprice.com
DON ANTONIO
TRATTORIA Italian Located in Tiburon’s historic Ark Row, this trattoria offers authentic Italian cuisine in a quaint setting. The menu includes traditional courses with selections such as chicken piccata, organic roasted rack of lamb and housemade pesto. 114 Main St, 415.435.0400, donantoniotrattoria.com
GUAYMAS Mexican Situated right next to the Tiburon ferry terminal on the waterfront, the seating make it a great place to bring visitors on a warm summer night. Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. M-F. 5 Main St, 415.435.6300, guaymasrestaurant.com MILANO Italian Located in the Cove Shopping Center, this familyowned neighborhood spot is known for its pasta and friendly service. Favorites like the cheesy garlic bread and pesto pasta keep customers coming back. 1 Blackfield Dr, 415.388.9100, tiburonmilano.com
NEW MORNING CAFE
American Sit outside or indoors at this casual cafe. On a sunny morning, tables will be filled with locals enjoying the sun and extensive breakfast menu; lunch served as well. 1696 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.4315
SALT & PEPPER
American This sunfilled, one-room restaurant, featuring hardwood floors and blue-checkered tablecloths, is a local favorite. Popular items include scallops, ribeye steak, a beef burger and traditional crab cakes with jalapeño dipping sauce. 38 Main St, 415.435.3594
SAM’S ANCHOR CAFE
American Everyone knows Sam’s deck is the prime spot for brunch on a lazy sunny Sunday, and its bar is the town’s historic watering hole, but Sam’s is also a great place for lunch or dinner. Enjoy transfat-free calamari, fresh fish, seasonal salads and pastas. 27 Main St, 415.435.4527, samscafe.com
TIBURON TAVERN
California The atmosphere here is truly enchanting, with two outdoor patios, two indoor fireplaces and candlelit tables at dinner. No item is more than $25, including the steak, with entrées falling in the $14 to $18 range. Happy hour is 4 to 6:30 p.m. M–F. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.5996, tiburontavern.com
WEST MARIN
THE LUNCH BOX
American Spending the day on the coast? Stop by this modern day mom and pop deli for some beach bites. In addition to deli offerings, Lunch Box offers a full Mexican menu on Thursday and Friday evenings, with recipes from the chef’s hometown of Colima (Stinson). 15 Calle del Mar, Ste 2, 415.868.8884, lunchboxmarin.com
NICK’S COVE American Large windows provide picturesque views of Tomales Bay and Hog Island. The 130seat eatery’s menu consists of fresh local seafood, oysters and bounty from nearby West Marin farms (Marshall). 23240 Hwy 1, 415.663.1033, nickscove.com
OSTERIA STELLINA
California Whether it’s to cap off a ay of hiking or celebrate a romantic anniversary, Osteria Stellina suits any occasion. The menu is Italian-inspired and features local, organic ingredients. If you’re looking for something unusual try the goat shoulder, a favorite of tourists and locals alike (Point Reyes). 11285 Hwy 1, 415.663.9988, osteriastellina.com
PARKSIDE CAFE
American Perfect for a sit down, alfresco meal or for grabbing a burger to enjoy on the beach. Choose from an array of organic, locally grown produce, artisan meats and wild seafood (Stinson). 43 Arenal Ave, 415.868.1272, parksidecafe.com
PINE CONE DINER
American You can find this ultimate neighborhood diner just off he main road. Vintage china and homemade curtains
complement the eclectic but homey menu featuring local fare. A favorite for locals as well as tourists (Point Reyes Station). 60 Fourth St, 415.663.1536, pineconediner.com
RANCHO NICASIO
American Known for live music and an extensive menu featuring everything from Dungeness crab cakes to the Garlic and Rosemary Lamb Medallions dish, Rancho Nicasio is open seven days a week. Be sure to stop by for happy hour, 4 to 6 p.m. M–F. 1 Old Rancheria (Nicasio) Rd, 415.662.2219, ranchonicasio.com
SAND DOLLAR
American Originally built from three barges in Tiburon in 1921, the Sand Dollar Restaurant was floated to Stinson that same year. Enjoy live music along with barbecued local oysters and New England clam chowder. The sunny deck is great in the afternoon (Stinson). 3458 Shoreline Hwy, 415.868.0434, stinson beachrestaurant.com
SIR & STAR AT THE
OLEMA California The historic inn has reopened as a roadhouse-style restaurant featuring rustic decor and a delicious yet affordable menu. Try the housemade bread and honey butter, the kale Caesar and the stuffed quail, or take the plunge and sample the entire menu — the majority of items are $20 or less (Olema). 10000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.663.1034, sirandstar.com
STATION HOUSE CAFE
American Fresh local homegrown foods, served when available, are showcased on the chef’s menu. Stop in on weekends for live music and enticing wine and beer lists (Point Reyes Station). 11180 State Rte One, 415.663.1515, stationhousecafe.com SAN FRANCISCO
AQ RESTAURANT &
BAR California AQ takes seasonal to a new level, not only adapting the menu but also transforming the decor of the entire venue to match the weather outside. This summer the warmly lit space parallels the dishes made with fresh veggies, nuts and fish. 1085 Mission St, 415.341.9000, aq-sf.com BENU Asian/French Plan an evening at Benu for a formal and sophisticated meal. The breathtaking compositions are offered on a tasting menu that gives you the full experience of this restaurant’s unique Asian fusion cuisine. 22 Hawthorne St, 415.685.4860, benusf.com BOULI BAR American/ Mediterranean Head to Boulettes Larder’s new bar and dining room for the savory flavors of spicy lamb, feta and mint or the bittersweetness of salad topped with barberries, bulgur and pomegranate, all in a setting of handsome wood tables and an open kitchen. 1 Ferry Building, 415.399.1155, bouletteslarder.com
BOXING ROOM Cajun The Southern comfort of Louisiana, updated to fit the polished elegance of the city. Indulge
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SAN DOMENICO SCHOOL
Now accepting applications for girls and boys Pre-K to Grade 12
Schedule Your Tour: 415/258-1905 or admissions@sandomenico.org
Independent • Coeducational Pre-K-Grade 8, Day School • Grades 9-12, Day & Boarding 1500 Butterfield Road, San Anselmo, CA 94960 www.sandomenico.org
in authentic Cajunstyle eats and fresh California seafood. 399 Grove St, 415.430.6590, boxingroom.com BUN MEE Vietnamese The Southern comfort A fun and casual lunch spot that puts a flavorful twist on classic Vietnamese. Sit back in this playful space with a salad, bowl or sandwich and enjoy the stylish San Francisco vibes. 2015 Fillmore St, 415.800.7696, bunmee.com
CAPO’S CHICAGO
Italian If you’re craving classic Chicago-style Italian and a venue to match, the endless pizza choices and flavorful pasta and meat selections here will more than satisfy your appetite and take you back in time to the mobster days of the 1920s. 641 Vallejo St, 415.986.8998, sfcapos.com FRANCES California San Francisco elegance meets comfort food. The local, seasonal menu is a must-try on any trip to the city. Beware of the wait, however; make a reservation. 3870 17th St, 415.621.3870, frances-sf.com HAKKASAN Chinese The sleek, streamlined design is in sync with the delicate composition of the dishes, making this a grand S.F. destination. The rich-flavored slowbraised beef and the hot-and-sour soup are essentials. 1 Kearny St, 415.829.8148, hakkasan.com
KIN KHAO Thai Fullflavored Thai: From spicy curries to crab sen chan (a fresh seafood pad thai) to off-the-wall cocktails designed by Bon Vivants, this new San Francisco eatery is sure to impress. 55 Cyril Magnin St, 415.362.7456, kinkhao.com LOLÓ Mexican Fashionable San Francisco–style Mexican cuisine fuses market-fresh ingredients with traditional dishes. The whole atmosphere is bright, colorful and festive, a reflection of Loló’s flavor-blasted menu. 974 Valencia St, 415.643.5656, lolosf.com
MICHAEL MINA
Japanese/French Michael Mina has clearly mastered the fine line between award-winning art and Alaskan halibut. Each brilliantly crafted dish gives diners a delicate blend of flavors that add up to a distinctive, luxurious dining experience. 252 California St, 415.397.9222, michaelmina.net
NAMU GAJI Korean A clean and natural design in a streamlined setting, where a shiitake mushroom dumpling and an eightounce Korean-accented burger are among the many options to discover. 499 Dolores St, 415.431.6268, namusf.com NOPA California The easy California menu shows off oasted chicken and pork chops, with a bouquet of appetizers to set the mood. Although this S.F. destination is busy almost every night (a good sign), the wait at the legendary bar is half the fun. 560 Divisadero St, 415.864.8643, nopasf.com
PADRECITO Mexican Authentic Mexican cooking with the variety and individuality of San Francisco. The tacos feature meat from the likes of Mary’s, Marin Sun Farms and Niman and Meyer ranch that go perfect with the spicy and original cocktails. 901 Cole St, 415.742.5505, padrecitosf.com
RICE, PAPER,
SCISSORS Vietnamese Don’t be fooled by the casual setting in this Vietnamese pop-up cafe — the grilled steak bahn mi is five-star-worthy. Take a seat on one of the bright red stools on Mission Street and stay warm with a pot of jasmine tea. 1710 Mission St, 415.878.6657, ricepaperscissors.com RICH TABLE California A bright, relaxed environment, fresh ingredients grown only feet from the kitchen, creative and quirky cocktails and California wine. 199 Gough St, 415.355.9085, richtablesf.com ROKA AKOR Japanese With a grand open grill as the centerpiece of the space, this is a destination for anyone who appreciates charcoal-fired red meat or mint-adorned plates of fresh sashimi. The sultry subterranean Roka Bar is perfect for a before- or after-dinner drink. 801 Montgomery St, 415.362.8887, rokaakor.com
STATE BIRD
PROVISIONS American With an overwhelming variety of choices, from seafood to spicy kimchi to pancakes, not to mention a full range of poultry, this uncommon dim sum–style setup features a little bit of everything. 1529 Fillmore St, 415.795.1272, statebirdsf.com TOWN HALL American The exposed brick and warm, unconventional lighting turn Town Hall’s large space into an intimate yet elegant environment. With a more-than-adequate wine list and savory American classics like pork tenderloin with honey grits, a visit here should be on everyone’s list. 342 Howard St, 415.908.3900, townhallsf.com VERBENA California This lofted-ceilinged, dimly lit space has a relaxing atmosphere that is only furthered by the artistic manipulation of local veggies and rich meat and poultry dishes. Pair with a cold beer or a fine French wine. 2323 Polk St, 415.441.2323, verbena restaurant.com
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