Travel Savvy Presents: The San Francisco Dining Guide

WHERE TO

EAT & DRINK

IN SAN FRANCISCO

RIGHT NOW

FROM A LOCAL'S PERSPECTIVE

In partnership with 2

CULINARY GUIDE (2015)

also recently named Best Culinary Destination by the readers of Saveur. It’s not all haute cuisine, either. The city is home to the “country’s best burrito,” according to ESPN, and Tony’s Pizza Napoletana is home base to 11-time World Pizza Champion Tony Gemignani.

San Francisco : The City that Knows Chow

• Location, location, location. Chefs will tell you that great food is based on having access to great ingredients. The bounty of Northern California— from the variety of fruits, vegetables and produce, seafood from local waters and free-range chickens, hormone-free beef and lamb raised on nearby ranches—contributes to what chefs call “product,” an unvarnished term for something that food critics and foodies rave about.

There was a time when folks in San Francisco wouldn’t think of starting their day without reading Herb Caen’s column. He was the Facebook of his era, and his column was filled with short three-dot items on who said what to whom.

Cable Car. Photo By: Ricardo Villar

It was he who dubbed San Francisco “the city that knows chow,” based on a much older quote from President William Howard Taft, who called San Francisco “the city that knows how.”

• Just as Tom Cruise gazed into Renee Zellweger eyes in “Jerry Maguire” and said, “You complete me,” the food experience is made whole by the local wine and microbrew culture, not to mention the craft cocktail movement.

Ever since the days of the Gold Rush, when a mix of culinary “influencers” arrived by the boatload, San Francisco has been a little food crazy. The melting pot is still bubbling with everything from mulligatawVisitors to San Francisco will soon discover that ny to vichyssoise, and no one is too surprised when neighborhoods are known more for their food pedthe local deli serves kimchi burritos. igree than their proximity to parks or public transit, both of which are excellent. Says one long time resSo visitors might wonder, what else makes San Franident: cisco so toothsome? Well, in addition to the diversity of its menus, here are a few key pieces of information “People know where you live by the food. You’ll hear that might be helpful: ‘What’s your neighborhood? Oh, the food there is great.’” Within these pages we’re happy to share • The city boasts more restaurants per capita than with you more reasons to get out and explore San any other major U.S. city. There are more than Francisco’s 49 square miles with fork (or chopsticks) 4,400 restaurants in San Francisco. The visitor inin hand! dustry is a key contributor to that bottom line.

Visitors rank restaurants as one of the top three And if time is short, opt for one of the many food things factored into their decision to come. celebrations. Eat Drink SF, Aug. 20-23, 2015 is just around the corner.

• An obsession with quality, driven by consumers who set high standards, has garnered a number President & CEO of awards and the attention of food critics. The San Francisco Travel Association, 2015 Michelin Guide to San Francisco awarded Joe D'Alessandro four restaurants with three stars, six with two stars and 30 with one star. The Slanted Door in 2014 received the James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Restaurant in the U.S. The city was 3

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EDITOR'S LETTER Who couldn’t fall madly in love with this cosmopolitan oasis?

On my last trip, I spent several wonderful hours meandering through the farmers’ market outside the Ferry Building, marveling at the rows of perfect fruit.

When I finally made it inside, the stalls and markets were filled with exquisite breads and cheeses. I sampled charcuterie, indulged in a Humphry Slocombe ice cream and finally sat down for an early dinner at Hog Island.

On another day I made time to shop the excellent vintage stores on Haight Street, and headed to the Off The Grid meet-up on Upper Haight. I left the next afternoon and rued the fact that I missed a dim sum stop. But my friend and local Linda Lee gave me the insider scoop on Koi Palace, near the airport, that serves excellent Hong Kong-style dim sum. I will check it out next time I’m flying to the city.

Many a lyric has been sung about San Francisco, but the most famous is Tony Bennett’s “I Left My Heart In San Francisco.” The song declares that Paris, Rome and Manhattan cannot compete with the romance and allure of this beautiful city by the bay.

And it’s right.

As readers of Travel Savvy know well, we’re all about insider tips.

Pristine ocean views. The Golden Gate Bridge. Rolling hills. San Francisco is a singular sensation.

Locals are the best sources for tips on shopping, museums, galleries, food and nightlife. In this special edition, prepared with the wonderful team from San Francisco Travel Association, we explore the extraordinary culinary scene of San Francisco with six local foodies. All wax rhapsodic about the quality and flavors of dining in their city.

In the city’s compact seven-by-seven-mile square, you’ll find iconic landmarks. Just to name a few: Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Twin Peaks, Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghirardelli Square, the Grant Avenue Chinatown gate.

And don’t forget the wild animals—sea lions in the bay, lemurs at the Zoo, tropical sea life at the California Academy of Sciences. For design buffs, the picturesque streets lined with “painted lady” Victorians, magnificent gardens and sprawling parks are architectural delights.

From Castro to Nob Hill, the Mission to SoMa, there is an excellent dish waiting to be eaten on every street in San Francisco. Grab your fork and get ready to dive in!

Editor in Chief, Paula Keung

Did I mention San Francisco has more dining per capita than any other U.S. city!

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CONTENTS

AUGUST 2015 SAN FRANCISCO: THE CITY THAT KNOWS CHOW

05

EDITOR'S LETTER

08-11

11 GLOBAL FOOD EXPERIENCES IN SAN FRANCISCO

12-15

9 FARM TO TABLE ADVENTURES IN SAN FRANCISCO

16-19

7 INTIMATE RESTAURANTS IN SAN FRANCISCO

20-23

8 VEGETARIAN OPTIONS IN SAN FRANCISCO

24-27

10 MODERN CLASSICS IN SAN FRANCISCO

28-30

MASTER INDEX BY NEIGHBORHOOD

Golden Gate Bridge. Photo By: San Francisco Travel

03

7

FRONT COVER

BACK COVER

Photo By: Thomas Hawk

Photo By: Fedor Kondratenko

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Featuring Kathryn Flouton Vice President at NatureBox

K

athryn Flouton loves all things edible. An industry executive for the last 15 years, her passion for food is rooted in her childhood.

Kathryn and Family

Farm Fresh Strawberries. Photo By: Kathryn Flouton

“Growing up in Cleveland, my mom and grandmom were both amazing cooks and bakers. In fact, my mom had a catering business, and her clients would hire me and my friend to clean up. We were oh-so-cleverly called The Kitchen Kousins. We traveled a lot as a family growing up and would explore different countries, cultures and cuisines. Good food was always a part of our every day.”

After years of living in Boston and New York, Kathryn and her husband Mike moved to San Francisco’s Bernal Heights neighborhood in 2013 with their toddler son. “This move is by far the tastiest. We’ve fallen in love with the variety of flavors and quality of ingredients readily available everywhere in this city.

The proximity to the source has lots to do with this. Living here has given the term ‘eat locally’ true meaning.”

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As a local, Kathryn has embarked on some serious culinary adventures.

“I've visited everything from romaine fields in Salinas, aka ‘the salad bowl of America,’ to almond farms in the hot Central Valley.

I also recently handpicked nine pounds of organic strawberries at a farm down the coast off Highway 1. Those berries would not have made it in a truck or a clamshell.

In San Francisco, there is a quality and integrity you can enjoy. That happens when the produce isn’t bounced in the back of a truck thousands of miles across country because the item isn’t picked earlier to be able to endure that journey.”

Whether her family decides to dine in or out, Kathryn and Mike are experts at finding fresh, delicious options for every craving. “In regards to food, the city offers a bit of everything you could possibly want from all corners of the world,” she explains. Here is her round-up of locally based international dining destinations.

BERNAL HEIGHTS 3 FRONT PORCH

1 PIQUEO'S

65 29TH ST (415) 695 7800

830 CORTLAND AVE (415) 282 8812

“Warm and friendly place for Peruvian tapas. I love the traditional plates, like ceviche and chicharrones, and the entrées are generous. Peruvian food actually is at its core a fusion of Latin, European, Asian and beyond, so dishes like the Pork Adobo feel a little Asian. Simply delicious!

Mike starts with the sangria and I order an Albariño, and we order a bit of everything.”

“Sure, everyone loves fried chicken, but it’s hard to find crispy, savory, Southern-fried chicken that is consistently good-and never soggy or under spicedevery time. In this city, Front Porch is where you’ll find it.”

CHINATOWN

02 | Red Hill Station

4 HOUSE OF NAN KING 919 KEARNY ST (415) 421 1429

“Touristy and a classic, but worth it for that West Coast Chinese -American flavor we all love. This is authentic to the core, from the cozy interior, quick service and delicious favorites, like potstickers and egg rolls done right. ”

2 RED HILL STATION 803 CORTLAND AVE (415) 757 0480

“New American takes on standards like Carbonara—his is with maple bacon. Aside from the bacon, the menu is actually geared toward the seafood lover.

I like to start with a dozen fresh West Coast oysters and go from there. The setting is stylish and everything is super fresh and interesting.”

03 | The Front Porch

01 | Piqueo's

02 | Red Hill Station

01 | Piqueo's

04 | House of Nan King

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FILLMORE / WESTERN ADDITION

HAYES VALLEY 7 ZUNI

5 PLAJ

1658 MARKET ST (415) 552 2522

333 FULTON ST (415) 294 8925

“Located inside a tiny 48-room hotel, Inn at the Opera. Scandinvia meets California at Plaj. Possibly the best burrata salad and brown bread you've ever tasted; always leave room for dessert and order the crème brûlée or the princess cake."

“Zuni’s has been around since 1979, so this is as classic as it gets.

The menu offers a variety of dishes that change frequently. You must get the roasted chicken, which is what every local in San Francisco will also tell you. Expect a whole bird, freshly roasted in their brick oven and served over an excellent panzanella salad.”

05 | Plaj

6 STATE BIRD PROVISIONS

MISSION DISTRICT

1529 FILLMORE ST (415) 795 1272

“A new take on dim sum service; the staff encourages you to order lots of tapas-sized dishes from the menu and to share everything among friends. Worth waiting in line to get a table at this James Beard Award Winner, because let’s face it, there's no way you're getting a reservation. ”

8 ABV 3174 16TH ST (415) 400 4748

06 | State Bird Provisions. Photo By: Dylan and Jeni

“ABV has gained a true local following for the excellent cocktail menu that features every spirit and combination you can imagine.

I personally love the bar bites, all of which are served on compostable plates without utensils— true finger foods! Don’t miss the kimchi fritters.”

07 | Zuni's. Photo By: James No

09 | Ichi Sushi. Photo By: Alanna Hale

08 | ABV 05 | Plaj

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9 ICHI SUSHI 3282 MISSION ST (415) 525 4750

“The most Japan-like experience and freshest quality I’ve ever had, outside of Tokyo. Don’t think you’re walking into a classically dark Japanese joint—this place is bright and modern, with a really cool mural about how to eat sushi.

Bet you didn’t know you’re supposed to hold sushi rice side up so that the fish hits your tongue first. Now you do!”

10 NAMU GAJI 499 DOLORES ST (415) 431 6268

“Tradition meets innovation at this Korean restaurant. Mike and I will order something spicy like the stewed oxtail dish. The Kids’ menu is just as interesting, so our son can enjoy soba noodles or a rice plate with seaweed. We love the intimate Dolores Street venue, but there is a sister location at the Ferry Building."

10 | Namu Gaji. Photo By: Eva Kolenko

SOMA 11 YANK SING 49 STEVENSON ST (415) 541 4949

“If you’re craving the full dim sum experience complete with little bamboo baskets of dumplings on carts, you must come to Yank Sing. While there are many places in San Francisco for dim sum, what makes Yank Sing my pick is the clean interior, the quality and wide array of choices, and the friendly service.”

11 | Yank Sing

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Featuring Machell & Effie Speigler

W

Machell & Effie Speigler

hen Machell and Effie met a decade ago, they were both hungry New Yorkers working in media and food. Fast-forward 10 years, and now the couple is married with an adorable little girl, Marley, all happily living a delightfully food-centric existence in the Bay Area. Machell is currently an ambassador for Dark Horse Wine, while Effie is the executive chef for dining at O. Co Coliseum home to the Oakland A's and Oakland Raiders. Effie is also part of the trio behind the soon-to-beopened Steel Rail Public House in Jack London Square, Oakland.

been on the hunt for the best flavors available in The City By The Bay. “As foodies, we’re always up for new flavors and adventures,” says Machell. “You can easily enjoy some of the best street food here, or dine in a Michelin-rated restaurant with the same ease.”

Their professions reflect a love of edible experiences. Eating is a job for this food-tastic couple, but it’s not all hard work. “Locals here are spoiled with the fact that we truly can live farm to table. This city has access to local fruit veg/farms, locally harvested honey, farm made cheeses, wonderful bakeries— all within a few miles.” Where do Since arriving in California almost Chef Speigler and the Mrs. dine? two years ago, the couple has Check out the list below.

Wine Bottles. Photo By: Esperanza33

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CIVIC CENTER 1 ALTA CA 1420 MARKET ST (415) 590 2585

“Because of the location near the Civic Center and big headquarters like Twitter, Alta CA can be packed during prime lunch and dinner hours, so be sure to make a reservation. The entrance is unassuming, but the interior is beautifully done and polished.

Cocktails are fun and so is the food! Order the little dish of beef tendon puffs, which are super addictive little crunchy bits of yumminess.”

EMBARCADERO / FINANCIAL DISTRICT 2 HOG ISLAND OYSTERS FERRY BUILDING MARKETPLACE 1 FERRY BLDG (415) 391 7117

“Hog Island has been an oyster farm off the coast of Marin County for over 30 years. Today, the company also operates this spacious, modern eatery in the famous Ferry Building. Try to come on a day when the CUESA Farmer’s Market is open, Saturdays, Tuesdays and Thursdays on the plaza in front of the building. You will love seeing how fresh and beautiful our local

produce is before you head into the restaurant for a taste of the ocean.

Grab a table on the restaurant’s outdoor patio when the weather is nice—which it is year-round.”

MISSION DISTRICT 3 BAR TARTINE 561 VALENCIA ST (415) 487 1600

“The menu, which leans toward a Cali-Hungarian mood, features farm-fresh veggies and the famous breads and pastries. Flavors and ingredients are super-imaginative, and dishes change often based on produce availability.

Definitely try to make it for brunch on the weekends, when you can order avocado toast with silky, soft scrambled eggs...wow!”

01 | Alta CA. Photo By: Alanna Hale

03 | Bar Tartine. Photo By: Chad Roberston

02 | Hog Island Oysters. Photo By: Ed Anderson Photography

03 | Bar Tartine. Photo By: Chad Roberston

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4 HAWKER FARE 680 VALENCIA ST (415) 400 5699

“Casual place for excellent family-style Thai food. Everything looks, feels and tastes authentic— from the colorful Asian posters, plastic tablecloths and the strings of tiny lights to the spicy sauteed greens, savory chicken fat rice and pungent durian ice cream.

We like to come with friends so we can share more dishes.”

PACIFIC HEIGHTS / LOWER PACIFIC HEIGHTS 6 FRESCA

7 WOODHOUSE FISH CO.

2114 FILLMORE ST (415) 447 2668

“Our favorite place for tasty Peruvian delights like ceviches and simple yet delicious anticuchos, which are grilled skewers. You can visit any of the four locations across the city, but we like the one in Pacific Heights 5 HOG & ROCKS because of the cute neighbor3431 19TH ST hood. Fillmore Street is home to (415) 550 8627 lots of fantastic little shops and “The name of this fun, hip restaucafés, so it is easy to spend a day rant explains exactly what they are in the area and finish the night about—come for seasonal oyster at Fresca.” the rocks—and ham—the hog.

Even the delicious deviled eggs have a fried oyster and a piece of country ham atop the creamy little bites.”

06 | Fresca. Photo By: Yuichi Sakuraba

04 | Hawker Fare. Photo By: Aubrie Pick

05 | Hog & Rocks. Photo By: TorbakHopper

07 | Woodhouse Fish Co. Photo By: Neil Conway

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1914 FILLMORE ST (415) 437 2722

“Our local standby place for excellent fresh seafood. Everything is very New England-y, from the fantastic lobster roll to the fried clams. Of course get the classic Cioppino. We’ve been going to the Fillmore Street location more often, but we also love the one in the Castro, at 2073 Market Street. Both are super cute. Pro-tip: $1 oyster happy hour on Tuesdays!”

07 | Woodhouse Fish Co.

RICHMOND / PRESIDIO SOMA 8 BURMA SUPERSTAR 309 CLEMENT ST (415) 387 2147

“Open since 1992, this classic still commands a long wait, which can stretch to an hour or more. So we just factor in extra time and arrive early. Burmese cuisine, with its signature bright and lively flavors and mix of textures, is popular here in San Francisco; Burma Superstar is our pick for the best. Aside from this flagship on Clement, there are two additional locations in the Bay area.”

9 DIRTY HABIT 12 4TH ST (415) 348 1555

“Located upstairs in Hotel Palomar, this is the perfect blend of bar and restaurant. DH’s inventive cocktails and new American menu are perfectly aligned, with seasonal ingredients playing a big part in everything from finger foods to entrées to drinks.”

09 | Dirty Habit. Photo By: Eric Wolfinger

08 | Burma Superstar. Photo By: Jack Ma Studio

My favorite is Blue Bottle Coffee

09 | Dirty Habit. Photo By: Eric Wolfinger

08 | Burma Superstar. Photo By: Andrew Wong

09 | Dirty Habit. Photo By: Eric Wolfinger

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Featuring Antonia Tam

A Antonia Tam

s big cities go, San Francisco is unusually picturesque: rolling hills and majestic ocean views, Muni cable cars, gorgeous real estate, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and so much more. “Each of our little neighborhoods offer their own flavor and character with narrow streets, Victorian houses and cute little shops,” asserts local Antonia Tam. “Valencia, Fillmore, Hayes Valley, Union...it’s all here and completely walkable.

I moved here two decades ago from New York City, and the people watching is just as enjoyable!”

Visitors land at the airport and commence a love affair with everything this city has to offer, from the soft-edged, easy-going vibe, the ridiculously beautiful views and the amazing weather year-round. “You can wear the same thing every day, and you’ll never be over- or under-dressed,” explains Antonia. “Just bring a light sweater, and you’re all set.”

Plus, the food. “My husband’s family is from Hong Kong, and

San Francisco Sunrise. Photo By: Nicolas Raymond

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as frequent travelers to Asia and beyond, we’re always comparing the food scene to what we have here. We’re amazed by the level of cooking we have access to.”

In a city with major culinary heavyweights like Corey Lee’s Benu, Gary Danko, Michael Chiarello’s Coqueta and Joshua Skenes at Saison, locals have plenty to brag about when it comes to boldfaced restaurants. Just as delicious, but in a different category, are the smaller gems that dot San Francisco’s landscape. “I really appreciate the out-of-theway places, sometimes they have more personality,” she says. “In my estimation, there are more restaurants per capita here, and lesser-known ones must try super hard to find a niche of customers.

You will taste all the extra effort in each bite.”

In this list, Antonia gives us a peek at her favorite small-scale spots serving major-league taste sensations.

DUBOCE TRIANGLE 2 L’ARDOISE BISTRO 151 NOE ST (415) 437 2600

“Excellent French bistro that has an authentic Parisian vibe.

Cozy and welcoming, I start with a charcuterie and end with a slice of tarte tartin and leave completely satisfied.”

MISSION DISTRICT

01 | Kitchen Story

3 LAZY BEAR 3416 19TH ST (415) 874 9921

01 | Kitchen Story

“To eat at Lazy Bear, diners must buy tickets to a seating, akin to a game or concert. There are only two seatings each night for the pre-fixe dinner, a tasting menu of 12 courses. The restaurant serves Tuesday through Saturday.

Every evening feels like a dinner party, where your host concocts an elaborate, thoughtful meal.

Plus, you’re free to roam around and meet the other diners.”

03 | Lazy Bear. Photo By: Luke Andrews

CASTRO 1 KITCHEN STORY 3499 16TH ST (415) 525 4905

“This is an upscale diner-slash-café that is great for brunch and dinner.

Cuisine leans toward Californian with some Thai influences. I like everything from the huge and delicious brunch items, as well as the Asian-inspired dinner entrées.”

02 | L'Ardoise Bistro

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NOE VALLEY 4 GRIDDLE FRESH 4007 24TH ST (415) 647 7037

“Griddle Fresh is strictly breakfast and brunch; they are open from 8 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. daily. Let’s not make this tiny place—and their lemon ricotta pancakes—too well-known. The average wait for a table is already dire for locals!”

NORTH BEACH 5 CAFÉ JACQUELINE 1454 GRANT AVE (415) 981 5565

“The best soufflés and onion soup in the U.S. The only person in the kitchen is owner Jacqueline Margulis, who has been making divine soufflés since the 1970s— for entrées and dessert. Hurry over and try this classic representation of the San Fran food scene— delicious, understated, simple yet elegant. This is the perfect place for a romantic date. But buyer beware: meals take around two hours, since everything is made by hand.”

04 | Griddle Fresh

04 | Griddle Fresh. Photo By: Jamie Rodriguez

05 | Café Jacqueline. Photo By: Gary Stevens

06 | The House

06 | The House 05 | Café Jacqueline. Photo By: Naotake Murayama

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SUNSET 7 OUTERLANDS 4001 JUDAH ST (415) 661 6140

“Modern and hip, come for excellently executed basics, like grilled 6 THE HOUSE cheese, the ham sandwich and 1230 GRANT AVE (415) 986 8612 salads at lunch and a short list “This 12-year-old classic is well- of super-fresh proteins with seaknown among locals for superb sonal produce for dinner.”

Asian-fusion cuisine. It can be noisy, but I don’t mind. I know I won’t spend a lot, and the service will be great. I like the wasabi noodles and the seafood specials, especially the clams when available.”

X CHAINS THAT I LIKE:

ICE CREAM AND COFFEE

“If you love ice cream, check out Humphry Slocombe or Smitten. Both places have multiple locations and are worth a visit. San Francisco coffee 06 | The House

culture is intense. Locals have fierce

07 | Outerlands. Photo By: Rob VSF

opinions on their cuppa. For me, it comes down to two places. Philz Coffee is strictly drip coffee and a serious locals’ favorite. Four Barrel Coffee hand roasts its beans and serves the best espresso—ever.”

07 | Outerlands. Photo By: Rob VSF

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01 | SEED+SALT

Featuring Mirran Raphaely Founder & CEO, Flow Global I’m a lifelong vegetarian at 41 and have never eaten meat, fish or fowl.

Our unparalleled quality of produce combined with the creative talents of food entrepreneurs who truly care about their wares makes this an ideal city for vegetarians!

T

he name San Francisco is derived from Saint Francis of Assisi, a Roman friar who was canonized in 1228. What’s interesting about Saint Francis is that he is the patron saint of animals and the environment. So it is only natural that the vegetarian lifestyle is so popular in the scenic City by the Bay. We tapped into the veg-scene via two locals, Mirran and Jenny, who shared with us some of the best places for deliciously conscientious dining.

Mirran Raphaely

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MARINA LUNCH PLACE 1 SEED + SALT 2240 CHESTNUT ST (415) 872 9173

“A wonderful eatery created and maintained with thoughtfulness, high standards, love and culinary talent. Everyone feels so good being there and eating there! The raw vegan lemon curd is made in heaven, while the “Not Tuna Salad" has inspired me to drive from the East Bay just for it!”

01 | SEED+SALT. Photo By: Aubrie Pick

01 | SEED+SALT. Photo By: Aubrie Pick

01 | SEED+SALT. Photo By: Aubrie Pick

NOB HILL GOURMET 2 SONS & DAUGHTERS 708 BUSH ST (415) 391 8311

“Part of a small restaurant group, it owns a private farm that supplies the produce and ingredients used in their recipes. This place offers a vegetarian pre-fixe menu worth every penny of the $115 charge. Call in advance for a reservation or book online.”

02 | Sons & Daughters. Photo By: FoodNut.com

02 | Sons & Daughters

02 | Sons & Daughters

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SOMA VEG OPTIONS 3 AZALINA'S 1355 MARKET ST (415) 660 2020

“Best Malaysian street food ever.

There’s a reason for the hype—it’s not fully vegetarian but has amazing choices for those interested.

Find them in a couple of places, including The Market on Market.

Try the Pineapple Tea Leaf Salad.”

03 | Azalina's

Featuring Jenny Phu Web Analyst & Designer Foodies here are an adventurous bunch; we appreciate the value of good food whether it's from a street vendor or a Michelin-star restaurant. Or maybe we just eat everything! SF offers a big city feel in a small seven-mile square. We have just about everything—including amazing food, and we joke that this place is so awesome people travel from afar just to see our prisons. Hashtag 'Alcatraz.'

Jenny Phu

CENTRAL MARKET / TENDERLOIN CASUAL & BARE BONES 4 THAI IDEA 710 POLK ST (415) 440 8344

04 | Thai Idea

“This is in a dingy part of town, but the inside is really comfortable and the food is super tasty. There are many great Thai restaurants in town, but if you're looking for strictly vegetarian, this is the place.”

LOWER PACIFIC HEIGHTS BRUNCHTASTIC 5 RED DOOR CAFE 1608 BUSH ST (415) 441 1564

04 | Thai Idea

“Red Door is a small vegetarian brunch spot that is run by an eccentric, fun owner who you might love...or not. He has interesting choices in clothing. The food is really good—the decor is what people will notice first, second are the menu item names. I ordered the Brie Whore the other day. MMMMM!” 22

MISSION DISTRICT SEASONAL & CREATIVE 6 GRACIAS MADRE 2211 MISSON ST (415) 683 1346

“Mexican food with a twist. Everything here is vegan. The menu changes based on what’s in season, but I wait every year for their strawberry cheesecake, which is almond-crusted, vegan, and gluten-free.

Ssooooo good.”

06 | Gracias Madre

GLUTEN FREE 7 PICA PICA 401 VALENCIA ST (415) 400 5453

07 | Pica Pica

“Although not fully vegetarian, this wonderful little place serves amazing 100% gluten free Venezuelan food. Not fancy but certainly yummy! Their nachos are made with taro chips.”

08 | Loving Hut

07 | Pica Pica

SOMA WORLDWIDE VEGAN 8 LOVING HUT 08 | Loving Hut. Photo By: Josefine Stenudd

1365 STOCKTON (415) 362 2199

“I first discovered this vegan Vietnamese chain in Honolulu years ago.

Locally I go to the Chinatown location, but there is one in Westfield Centre, as well as in the suburban Sunset neighborhood. If you wander over to Oakland, check out Golden Lotus.”

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MODERN CLASSICS Featuring Shane Pearce Manager, Fog City

T Shane Pearce

Champagne Cocktail. Photo By: Matt DeTurck

ravel Savvy’s search for a seriously in-the-know local brought us to the doorstep of an iconic 30-year-old eatery, Fog City, which you might remember from 1990s -era Visa commercials or on the cult classic film “So I Married An Axe Murderer.” Located along the Embarcadero at 1300 Battery St., the restaurant’s status as a classic San Francisco food destination was revived in 2013 after major renovations.

Shane Pearce, the restaurant’s manager, has been living in the Bay Area for 30 years and can’t imagine living anywhere else.

“San Francisco has a long history of open-minded residents and transplants. From fostering miners during the Gold Rush, being an LGBT sanctuary during the Second World War, nurturing an era of civil rights and anti-war activism through the 1950s and ’60s, and cultivating the software boom of the ’80s and ’90s, this remarkable city has been an incubator of creativity.”

With its influential history through the ages, it’s little wonder that meeting at interesting lounges and watering holes is so popular.

“Locals here have a special zest for life, and we are a social bunch.

Maybe that’s why we have so many places to eat, drink and be inspired. A bonus of being in the restaurant world is that I am able to meet industry peers. We like to get around to each others’ places.”

Shane’s recommendations for outstanding bars in his favorite city on earth follows. You’ll note the lack of newbies. “My favorite places have stood the test of time, so you know locals approve.”

05 | Beretta

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FISHERMAN’S WHARF

FILLMORE 1 SMUGGLER'S COVE

2 GARY DANKO 800 NORTH POINT ST (415) 749 2060

650 GOUGH ST (415) 869 1900

“Mai Tais and delicate floral drink garnishes are the stars of the show at Smuggler's Cove, a tikithemed bar located around the corner from the Opera House.

Rumored to have more varieties of rums than any other bar in the world, select from more than 400 types available or browse the extensive menu for something equally tropical.” Since 2009.

02 | Gary Danko. Photo By: Jared Goralnick

“At this Michelin-starred restaurant, you will be treated to a spectacular tasting menu by classically trained chef and owner Gary Danko. Aside from Mr. Danko’s flawless award-winning cuisine, prepare to be equally impressed by the establishment’s 2,000+ bottle wine list, featuring a dizzying array of vintages and varietals.

Among his achievements, Danko has earned accolades from James Beard, Esquire and Wine Spectator.” Since 1999.

HAYES VALLEY 3 ABSINTHE BRASSERIE 398 HAYES ST (415) 551 1590

“Just down the street from Smuggler’s Cove is Absinthe, an upscale French restaurant that is popular with the pre- and post-theater crowd. The food is completely unpretentious yet delicious, the interior is warm and unassuming, and the service is always top-notch. As the crowning jewel, this restaurant has an excellent bar program; you’ll find some of the most talented bartenders, mixologists and sommeliers here.

Combined with the chefs and the level of cooking, Absinthe is a true foodies’ paradise.” Since 1998.

03 | Absinthe Brasserie. Photo By: Nader Khouri

01 | Smuggler's Cove

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MARINA 4 NECTAR WINE LOUNGE

I like the Rattlesnake with rye, lemon, maple and bitters. You should try the pizza.” Since 2008.

3330 STEINER ST (415) 345 1377

“Adventurous wine lovers will be impressed with Nectar’s cellar.

The menu offers over 500 different bottles and vintages to choose from. Small plates and flights are very popular, and they offer a happy hour. Owner Chris is almost always behind the bar, ask him for a suggestion about wine or really anything San Francisco-related.”

Since 2004.

MISSION DISTRICT 5 BERETTA 1199 VALENCIA ST (415) 695 1199

“Don’t be alarmed by the crowds; we’re all here to have one of Beretta’s excellent cocktails and maybe chat with the bartender.

6 FLOUR AND WATER 2401 HARRISON ST (415) 826 7000

“This little local gem is most wellknown for the pizza. Carb out for sure here, and order an excellent Sicilian red from the well-edited wine list, focused on Italy and California.” Since 2009.

7 F OREIGN CINEMA

06 | Flour and Water

2534 MISSION ST (415) 648 7600

“For 15 years, Foreign Cinema has been the Mission District’s answer to ‘dinner and a movie’ with a twist. Open seven days a week, diners enjoy creative dishes that feel part Californian and part French, Mediterranean and Asian. Sip from its extensive wine

07 | Foreign Cinema. Photo By: Jerry Yoon

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04 | Nectar Wine Lounge

08 | Trick Dog

10 | Farallon

09 | Bourbon and Branch

list and watch indie films on the keep traditions alive with their big screen. Check the site for film unmarked, hard-to-find doorway and by requiring a password to schedule.” Since 1999. enter. That nostalgic blast is worth it, boasting darkened vintage interior, an extensive cocktail menu 8 TRICK DOG and friendly service. Be sure to 3010 20TH ST (415) 471 2999 book a reservation online—which “Trick Dog is a cocktail bar that is how you will obtain the entry everyone in town has already password!” Since 2006. fallen in lust with. Handcrafted drinks and small bar bites bring in crowds nightly. Every six months, UNION SQUARE the owners revamp the menu with a new theme and zany yet 10 FARALLON 450 POST ST perfectly executed drinks to (415) 956 6969 match. Recognized as one of the Best Bars In America by Esquire.” “It’s all about the ocean at this beautifully decorated restaurant.

Since 2013.

Imagine you are dining under the sea. It’s the soft-shell crab and the wine list that will capture your NOB HILL attention. Expert sommelier Luke Kenning has helped to curate 9 BOURBON AND BRANCH a generous list of bottles, demi 501 JONES ST (415) 346 1735 bottles and by the glass picks.

“Housed in an original 1920s-era Say ‘hello’ to GM Dale Forrest for speakeasy, B&B manages to me.” Since 1997.

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MASTER INDEX

BY NAME OF PLACE Absinthe Brasserie

= Vegeterian Friendly

Hawker Fare

HAYES VALLEY | 398 HAYES ST | (415) 551 1590

MISSION DISTRICT | 680 VALENCIA ST | (415) 400 5699

ABV

Hog Island Oysters

MISSION DISTRICT | 3174 16TH ST | (415) 400 4748

SOMA | 1 FERRY BLDG | (415) 391 7117

Alta CA

Hog & Rocks

SOMA | 1420 MARKET ST | (415) 590 2585

MISSION DISTRICT | 3431 19TH ST | (415) 550 8627

Azalina's

The House

SOMA | 1355 MARKET ST | (415) 660 2020

NORTH BEACH/TELEGRAPH HILL | 1230 GRANT AVE | (415) 986 8612

Bar Tartine

House of Nan King

MISSION DISTRICT | 561 VALENCIA ST | (415) 487 1600

CHINATOWN | 9 19 KEARNY ST | (415) 421 1429

Beretta

Ichi Sushi

MISSION DISTRICT | 1199 VALENCIA ST | (415) 695 1199

MISSION DISTRICT | 3282 MISSION ST | (415) 525-4750

Bourbon and Branch

Kitchen Story

NOB HILL | 501 JONES ST | (415) 346 1735

CASTRO | 3499 16TH ST | (415) 525 4905

Burma Superstar

L’ardoise Bistro

RICHMOND | 309 CLEMENT ST | (415) 387 2147

DUBOCE TRIANGLE | 151 NOE ST | (415) 437 2600

Café Jacqueline

Lazy Bear

NORTH BEACH | 1454 GRANT AVE | (415) 981 5565

MISSION DISTRICT | 3416 19TH ST | (415) 874 9921

Dirty Habit

Loving Hut

SOMA | 12 4TH ST | (415) 348 1555

SOMA | 1364 STOCKTON ST | (415) 362 2199

Farallon

Namu Gaji

UNION SQAURE | 450 POST ST | (415) 956 6969

MISSION DISTRICT | 499 DOLORES ST | (415) 431 6268

Flour and Water

Nectar Wine Lounge

MISSION DISTRICT | 2401 HARRISON ST | (415) 826 7000

MARINA DISTRICT | 3330 STEINER ST | (415) 345 1377

Foreign Cinema

Outerlands

MISSION DISTRICT | 2534 MISSION ST | (415) 648 7600

SUNSET | 4001 JUDAH ST | (415) 661 6140

Fresca

Pica Pica

PACIFIC HEIGHTS | 2114 FILLMORE ST | (415) 447 2668

MISSION DISTRICT | 401 VALENCIA ST | (415) 400 5453

The Front Porch

Piqueo's

MISSION DISTRICT | 65 29TH ST | (415) 695 7800

BERNAL HEIGHTS | 830 CORTLAND AVE | (415) 282 8812

Gary Danko

Plaj

FISHERMAN'S WHARF | 800 NORTH POINT ST | (415) 749 2060

HAYES VALLEY | 333 FULTON ST | (415) 294 8925

Gracias Madre

Red Door Cafe

MISSION DISTRICT | 2211 MISSION ST | (415) 683 1346

PACIFIC HEIGHTS | 1608 BUSH ST | (415) 441 1564

Griddle Fresh

Red Hill Station

NOE VALLEY | 4007 24TH ST NOE VALLEY | (415) 647 7037

BERNAL HEIGHTS | 803 CORTLAND AVE | (415) 757 0480

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Seed & Salt

MARINA | 2240 CHESTNUT ST | (415) 872 9173

Smuggler's Cove

FILMORE DISTRICT | 650 GOUGH ST | (415) 869 1900

Sons & Daughters

NOB HILL | 708 BUSH ST | (415) 391 8311

State Bird Provisions

WESTERN ADDITION | 1529 FILLMORE ST | (415) 795 1272

Thai Idea

TENDERLOIN | 710 POLK ST | (415) 440 8344

Trick Dog

MISSION DISTRICT | 3010 20TH ST | (415) 471 2999

Woodhouse Fish Co.

PACIFIC HEIGHTS | 1914 FILLMORE ST | (415) 437 2722

Yank Sing

SOMA | 49 STEVENSON ST | (415) 541 4949

Zuni

HAYES VALLEY | 1658 MARKET ST | (415) 552 2522

Ferry Building. Photo By: San Francisco Travel

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MASTER INDEX

BY NEIGHBORHOOD BERNAL HEIGHTS Piqueo's Red Hill Station

CASTRO Kitchen Story

CHINATOWN House of Nan King

DUBOCE TRIANGLE L’ardoise Bistro

MISSION DISTRICT ABV Bar Tartine Beretta Flour and Water Foreign Cinema Front Porch Gracias Madre Hawker Fare Hog & Rocks Ichi Sushi Lazy Bear Namu Gaji Pica Pica Trick Dog

FILLMORE DISTRICT Smuggler's Cove

NOB HILL Bourbon and Branch Son’s & Daughters

FISHERMAN’S WHARF Gary Danko

NOE VALLEY Griddle Fresh

HAYES VALLEY Absinthe Brasserie Plaj Zuni

NORTH BEACH The House Café Jacqueline

MARINA DISTRICT Nectar Wine Lounge Seed & Salt

= Vegeterian Friendly

RICHMOND DISTRICT Burma Superstar

SOMA Alta CA Azalinas Dirty Habit Hog Island Oysters Loving Hut Yank Sing

SUNSET Outerlands

TENDERLOIN Thai Idea

UNION SQUARE Farallon

PACIFIC HEIGHTS Fresca Red Door Cafe Woodhouse Fish Co.

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WESTERN ADDITION State Bird Provisions

Plaj

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