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warm welcomes as soon as you enter set the tone at this wonderfully intimate establishment. Thankfully, we had called to let them know we were going to be late for our reservation otherwise we would have been disappointed. we saw several couple turned away while we were dining. best value is the $20.00 prix fixe, only 3 options-no veggie. also both soups were meat but the tofu croutons were def. something new, crispy yet moist. I had the salmon, even though it had pasta {not my fav.} and Romeo had the Miso chicken. Well, happy to report that the sauce on the pasta was tasty enough to entice me into more than a few bites, although I did bring most of it home, it was yummy. the fact that we were bringing it home may have confused the staff who left us with it for quite a while before dessert. when dessert was presented it was the most divenly decadent chocolate sundae I have ever had and the raspberry brulee with the light and crispy cookie left Romeo more than happy. would DEF go back
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SUMI
Cuisine: Fusion
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Castro |
10/11/2005
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What a treat this place is for anyone who has spent some time in the islands...plate lunches at their best {and most caloric}
the mixed combo had shrimp, mahi mahi and chicken on 2 big scoops of rice and accompanied with ...of course macaroni salad...You can help yourself to Katsu {spicy} and teriyaki sauce..the noodle soup was huge as was the salad but the salad was mostly iceberg lettuce.. we ate some of it at the outside tables in the plaza there, it was a really warm day {for a change}less than $20.00 for fast filing and fun meal..felt like we were eating a few memories with that feast.
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Ono Hawaiian BBQ
Cuisine: Hawaiian Barbecue
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Outer Sunset |
9/27/2005
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The setting is OK, close to the university so there are lots of students. Prices are affordable. The crepes are big but not the most flavorful. My main objection is that they use the same batter for both their savory and the sweet crepes. I prefer the buckwheat batter for the savory crepes and the regular batter for the sweet ones. Quite affordable to split a salad and a crepe.
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Crepevine
Cuisine: Crepes Salad American
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Inner Sunset |
6/24/2005
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This restaurant has taken over the space that used to be Shabu shabu-cooking at your table. Because of this the tables are clunky,{as they have cooking units in them}and space for your legs suffers. This is another self-serve, no alcohol Indian rest. First we had a potato naan, which was not cooked enough for our tastes, and had barely any potato at all, so we ordered the onion naan which was crispy and delightfully tasty. We had spinach and lentils, an eggplant dish, rice and Romeo had lamb chops. with the exception of the potato naan, all was yummy, yummy, yummy and I am looking forward to going back and trying other items. the no alcohol kept the bill down, nice side benefit
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Tasty Curry
Cuisine: Indian Pakistani
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Inner Sunset |
4/11/2005
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This has been open for years and I finally made it it he door, it's 5 blocks from my house. What fun, esp. for lunch. I had a half ceasar w/ roasted eggplant. They ask if you want classic or choice..choice means you can top your salad with 7 items, and it comes with a piece of foccacia or sour dough bread. I could only eat half of my half order, it was HUGE. Next time I'm going for the onion rings, cute little things looked crispy and yummy. we only had waters but there is beer and wine for sale. The grilled portabello looked great also...so fresh and yummy.
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Pluto's Fresh Food for a Hungry Universe
Cuisine: American salads
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Inner Sunset |
3/7/2005
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we went to the Naan and curry near the tenderloin and enjoyed it, but this is is more fun. it is def. a CHEAP dinner; but you do the work..if you don't know the routine it can be annoying but they are fairly efficient. you place your order at the door, step aside for the eat it and beat crowd to thin and then by the time you are seated your food arrives. def. a bonus for those that must eat NOW. There is a bit of atmosphere here with some nice murals on the wall and a "tented ceiling" making it a bit festive. We enjoyed everything that we ordered, I just wish I had 2 orders of the eggplant as we almost finished that at the restaurant and there were little leftovers. Spinach paneer was nice as were the mixed veggies and couldn't decide whether we liked the onion or potato naan better. They were out of prawns the night we went, a bit sad as there are 5 menu items that use prawns. Next time we are doubling up as we really enjoyed the leftovers as much as the meal.
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Naan 'n Curry
Cuisine: Pakistani Indian
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Inner Sunset |
3/7/2005
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Fabulous fusion-French/Med. decor& food/Ambience is so warm and inviting but noisy {sometimes I think that the buzz adds to the ambience} Our waiter Laurent was chaming & gave helpful suggestions/Scallops-PLUMP & cooked to perfection/Foie Gras-great combo of smooth, crunch with the walnut bread and sweet with the apple/Paella was all perfectly cooked/I hate when the prawns are overcooked, not a problem here...dessert was a dasterdly, decadent choc. peppermint oozing warm cake concoction that excites me just thinking about it. wine list is huge. They do have a cute banquette for six in the back that would give a semi-private dining experience within the din of the restaurant, great spot for a small party. I have not dined in this neighborhood and see how many options there are. we will be back....oh la la what a place!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Baraka
Cuisine: French Mediterranean
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Potrero Hill |
2/9/2005
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This is a very cool atmosphere esp. in the bar.Bet it's hoping when the band plays. We went for lunch and they have a $12.95 and $14.95 special that you can choose an appetizer and an entree. I ended up taking home half of mine. It was a spring roll app, they were small but quite tasty and had a nice zing in the mustard sauce. My fish pillows were fun and the side veg. was pea shoot---yum, yum and some rice. We had a $35.00 jessup zin that was LOADED with flavors. no one had room for dessert.
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Shanghai 1930 Restaurant
Cuisine: Chinese
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Embarcadero |
2/1/2005
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We did a shoot for Ed TV here a few years back, and the owner couldn't dish out the pizza beause the production company thought he didn't look Italian enough; how sad.I think it is a toss up between here and Blondies downtown as to who has the best by the slice. It is great that they are open so late. Just go by the window and pick up a slice...so quick and easy, plus it's yummy.
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Golden Boy Pizza
Cuisine: Pizza
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North Beach |
1/26/2005
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This is a very romantic setting, they do good exquisite food with wonderful service but it is just so expensive. A place to see and be seen. I really enjoyed the seafood dish with the puff pastry...french meets chinese which is really what the restaurant is about, and they do a wonderful peking duck-very traditional. For my money, I would rather put the price of dinner here toward travel and let those other with very deep pockets enjoy Tommy Toy's. Great setting, not great value
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Tommy Toy's Cuisine Chinoise
Cuisine: Chinese French (New)
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Downtown |
1/26/2005
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If you'd like to see how the other half lives visit the Ritz. Their attention to detail and invisible service is impressive. Luckily, we have had a few family dinners here-what a treat. We had a private room for 12, the food was divine, the wine was delicious and as I said the service quite impeccable...this of course, comes at a price, but 1 that you feel was worth it at the end of the night. Sublime
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Ritz-Carlton Dining Room
Cuisine: French (New)
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Nob Hill |
1/26/2005
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This little spot suffers from lack of foot traffic. Just 1 block off the beaten path; too bad as the food is quite delectable. This time we just grazed and made a tapas dinner of calamari, polenta with mushrooms and a yummy goat cheese on new potatoes concoction that was divine. I have also had the Caesar salad with seared garlic prawns that was tasty. service is good, dimly lit for a romantic touch but alas, a little of the beaten path for longevity. Not far if you are headed to ACT or Curran.
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Cesario's
Cuisine: Italian
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Downtown |
1/24/2005
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I had such a fun birthday dinner here. We had a private room for 8, what a blast!!!! The food was very good and the plates were HUGE, I couldn't eat it all but my Romeo had no problem. where does that little thing fit all the food he eats and stay so thin??? we had a lot of fun with the staff also.
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La Barca
Cuisine: Mexican
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Marina |
1/14/2005
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This is a dependable chain that serves down home comfort Italian food. The staff is always friendly and the food is yummy, hot and plentiful. I am not fond of pasta but I LOVE their butternut squash ravoli, but they also do a faboo verdure, which you can get with shrimp. All the contorini sides are very tasty and the polenta is super fine. So even for non meat eaters there are many choices.
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Pasta Pomodoro
Cuisine: Italian
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Cow Hollow |
1/14/2005
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this is another fun restaurant in Belden Alley, I def. want to be dining outside or not here at all. Downstairs dining is just OK, but the outdoor seating feels like you are dining in Paris. The tables are packed together, just like Paris. I like the Provencal salad with Ahi tuna, and hubby likes the croque monsieur or croque madam to drive the Paris feel home. and of course we MUST have the mousse au chocolat---thick and creamy..yummmmmmmmmm
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Cafe Bastille
Cuisine: French (Bistro)
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Downtown |
1/13/2005
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This is just such a fun place to hang outside and have some coffee on a nice day. we have only had coffee and baked goods but it is the european feel of dining outdoors in cramped space with a busy street in front of you, that is so captivating here. Quite festive.
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Cafe Flore
Cuisine: American (Traditional)
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Castro |
1/13/2005
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this is 1 of the oldest SF restaurants, from the mid 1800's-around goldrush time. They are so old world, dark paneling, a counter for singles {they do have a $9 or 10.00 minimum}and booths with buzzers to call the waiters who have been there for 50 years themselves, or so it seems. we love the crab cake app., the calamari and the sand dabs. they offer great wines by the glass. They don't take res. and lunch is a zoo, but that is when it is the most fun. take a step back in time.
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Tadich Grill
Cuisine: Seafood American (Traditional)
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Downtown |
1/13/2005
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This has is a great old world feel to it, it is so warm and welcoming; they have been here over 20 years. I am such a thin crust fan and they do it oh so well. the antipasto salad is a varied plate that can make both meat and non meat eaters happy and the dressing is yum, yum yummy. Of couse being on Clement st, parking can be quite problematic.
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Giorgio's Pizzeria
Cuisine: Italian Pizza
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Inner Richmond |
1/13/2005
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I am not a meat eater but hubby LOVES these burgers. They are so big and juicy, makes quite a mess and of course you HAVE to have the fries. I enjoy going to sit outside on the patio, it is sooo relaxing and have a milkshake that comes in the container it was mixed in....like the "old days before I was born" sinfully delicious.
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Bill's Place
Cuisine: Hamburgers
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Outer Richmond |
1/13/2005
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This place was a nice surprise. doesn't really look like much but it is a cute Mom and Pop sushi place. It has a homey feel. The sushi is very fresh and the pieces are pretty large. we weren't headed for here, but went in when another restaurant left us sitting there for 15 minutes without as much as a hello, so we went here. Have been back a few times. very gracious service. more old school.
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Sushi Bistro
Cuisine: Sushi Japanese
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Inner Richmond |
1/13/2005
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We found this through United dining, nice place to go when you are attending the Curran theater or ACT. It is downstairs and broken up with pillars, which gives it a few nooks for more "private" dining. They do have a small room in the back that holds about 12 people for a small group dinner. The sushi is really fresh and the sake is delighful. Not any great value, but not overpriced either. Just duck your head when you enter. does feel a bit strange dining in the basement.
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Ryoko's
Cuisine: Japanese Sushi
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Downtown |
1/12/2005
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The dim sum here is just OK BUT prices are REALLY good. Ambience-there is none, I think there are only 5 tables.. definately better for take out or just a quick bite. We ate in, but wished we took it to go
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Good Luck Dim Sum
Cuisine: Dim Sum Chinese
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Inner Richmond |
1/12/2005
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If we want to get away to hawaii but can't fly, we eat here. always reminds us of the islands. laid back setting but tasty, tasty food. last time I was there it was a seminar and they had all 40 people fed with hot meals, not an easy trick. Seafood is the specialty and they have such wonderful presentation. Aloha
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Roy's
Cuisine: Hawaiian Seafood
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SoMa |
1/12/2005
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this is named for the red light district of Bangkok, but it puts out great tasty Thai dishes. The neighborhood can be tough to find parking during dinner rush but you won't be disappointed once inside. we have enjoyed all the dishes we tried but I really like the fried shrimp appetizer with sauce, {they use rice paper}and the green papaya salad all with a Thai beer of course.
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Patpong
Cuisine: Thai
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Outer Richmond |
1/12/2005
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we have gone here on several occasins and have had mixed service. The food has always been delightful but the service has been friendly, rude, and indifferent, depending upon the whim of the staff. I did enjoy the wine tasting flights, good way to taste a few new ones and find a treasure or 2, if you can deal with the staff.
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Bistro Clovis
Cuisine: French (Bistro)
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Hayes Valley |
1/11/2005
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This is a great weekend brunch place when the weather is nice. The have festive outdoor seating across from the gate to the Presidio. Fun atmosphere, down home food, staff that is friendly AND proficient, plus the prices are affordable. Nice little spot.
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Liverpool Lil's
Cuisine: English Pub Food
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Marina |
1/11/2005
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this is another small SF fun restaurant. It is a romantic and cosy setting plus the waiters are on the ball. Lovely Italian fare that warms the cockles of your heart, my monkfish was faboo and the wine list is affordable and tasty. Love to visit the small restaurants that make you want to keep coming back for more.
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Bella Trattoria
Cuisine: Italian
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Inner Richmond |
1/11/2005
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Another affordable option that has graced the greater Opera House area in the past few years. It is a chain, but is dependable for their nice salads, warming soups and creative pizzas. Service can be really hit or miss though, so be patient
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California Pizza Kitchen
Cuisine: Californian Pizza
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Civic Center |
1/11/2005
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This is a fun spot for any small groups or a better yet just a quiet tete-a-tete. Lots of nooks and crannies to snuggle into, and sip some lovely bubbly. I like that you can get taster glasses of some rather than full size flutes; this enables you to try more. The appetizers are OK but the real stars are the faboo champagnes and some of the chairs that just swallow you up they are so cosy. Not a place for the light of wallet set, bubbles take time to form and thus cost more.
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The Bubble Lounge Champagne Bar
Cuisine: Small Plates Dessert
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Downtown |
1/11/2005
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This is a nice little spot for more than just ice cream, although they do that superbly. They also have yummy baked treats, baking waffle cones fills the air and even make sandwiches. What is the most fun are all the vintage little toys around the shop, really takes you back. they have great hot fudge.
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Toy Boat Dessert Cafe
Cuisine: Coffee Shop Dessert Ice Cream
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Inner Richmond |
1/11/2005
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Bocadillos means litle sandwiches and they do them well. We had 3 people and ordered several of the small plates and they were all yum, yum, yummy. The buckwheat salad was quite interesting. we enjoyed a lovely Rioja wine from Spain. They don't take reservations, but we were flexible and didn't need to go at the height of lunch rush. it's a small spot but the food and service were great.
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Bocadillos
Cuisine: Tapas
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North Beach |
1/11/2005
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This is a cute little place. When the door open there is a nice curtain windbreaker, so the cool air doesn't rush in and chill you down. Bar is a cosy set up. The menu is limited but quite yummy. we had a caprese salad, mixed salad that had lots of things in it and a tasty pizza, with several toppings. I love the thin crusts, but this one actually offers both...usually it's 1 or the other. This is a spot to stop by even for just a drink, warm setting.
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Little Star Pizza
Cuisine: Pizza
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Western Addition |
1/10/2005
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this is yet another long termer in Chinatown West as we call it, at least 20 years. they are strickly a take out place, as they only have a few small tables. They do a great job with their char-siu bow-baked pork buns. We have friends from Salt Lake who make a pit stop here before the airport just to bring them home they are soooo good.
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Clement Restaurant
Cuisine: Chinese
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Inner Richmond |
12/14/2004
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Tart to Tart is another inner sunset reliable long termer, at least 17 years. Lots of nice healthy food options here. They sometimes have a buy 1 get 1 free ad in the bay Guardian, a little value added. Irving street has lots to watch as you enjoy the hubbub on a nice day or evening. No formal table service, but good down home treats.
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Tart to Tart
Cuisine: Bakeries dessert coffee
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Inner Sunset |
12/14/2004
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This restaurant has no decor but we get consistent deliveries of fresh sushi and tasty Japanese food. You get a free Calif. maki with a $25.00 order, so I order for 2 meals. If you live anywhere in the neighborhood, give them a try. It's so nice to have yummy food and not have to prepare it or leave the house. As I said, for in house dining it's minimal decor.
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Cheng's Kitchen
Cuisine: Japanese
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Inner Sunset |
12/14/2004
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This was my first Burmese restaurant and we have always been pleasantly surprised by the consistent quality. Sometimes one has fond memories of a restaurant and going back just shatters the memory. On multiple visits here, we have tried different items and the result is a keen desire to return for more.
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Mandalay Restaurant
Cuisine: Burmese Chinese
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Inner Richmond |
11/15/2004
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This is a nice place to bring out of towners on a show night. Ambience is nice and the dishes are quite lovely. It is in a splurge category but nice for a treat. I dined here with 3 of my sisters once and we were ALL happy, not an easy feat with 4 VERY different palates.
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Kuleto's
Cuisine: Italian
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Downtown |
11/15/2004
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weekend brunch is a fun event here....definitely have to wait on the weekend. I enjoy everything but would prefer some better coffee, otherwise wonderful large breakfast plates.
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Kate's Kitchen
Cuisine: Coffee Shops/Diners
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Lower Haight |
11/15/2004
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I visited Villa Romano again last week and it is just such a wonderful neighborhood treasure. All the fav. Italian dishes done quite well, in a homey family environment. I had the Cioppino and it was the BEST I have ever tasted, plus it was HUGE, I had 3 meals out of it, yummy, yummy, yuumy. They have a fun backroom for small parties.
Staff is gracious,on the ball and hands on management that eargerly pitch in when all are busy make this dependable neighborhood spot a joy.
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Villa Romana
Cuisine: Italian
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Inner Sunset |
11/15/2004
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This is a definite must stop for anyone at least once, but a great place to take visitors. Historically it is the actual site where the factory was, not made on premises anymore but the quality is there. I HATE to wait in lines, but here I will for the divinely decadent fabulously wonderfully hot fudge...oh la la, I just gained 2 pounds thinking about it...YUM
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Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop
Cuisine: Ice Cream
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Fishermans Wharf |
11/11/2004
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1 of several diner types in SF that you go to for the nostalgia effect rather than the food itself....service is usually fun and upbeat...fun decor and hopping music
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Lori's Diner
Cuisine: American (Traditional) Coffee Shops/Diners
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Downtown |
11/11/2004
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I make some pretty good pizza, so it is rare for us to go out for pizza. Milano always has inviting aromas wafting onto the street. The pizza is really good and they have some regular specials on draft beer but it amazes me that it is still CASH only.
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Milano Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant
Cuisine: Pizza Italian
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Inner Sunset |
11/11/2004
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This is another wonderful little bistro we are so blessed to have in the city. It has a very nice setting, the service is quite professional and the food is quite divine....The prix fix special is good value for what you receive. Tasty tasty food
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Le Charm French Bistro
Cuisine: French (Bistro)
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SoMa |
11/10/2004
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Another great place to dine before the Ballet, syphony or Opera. very dependable Italian cuisine in an inviting atmosphere with reasonable prices. staff likes to have a good time also. we have been there many times and not been disappointed.
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Caffe Delle Stelle
Cuisine: Italian
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Hayes Valley |
11/5/2004
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wonderful interior. one feels that they are dining in the time of the Arabian nights. I think they get the award every year for best place for a 1st date. setting is charming, food is wonderul prices can be high but this is an experience restaurant that delivers good quality and a show. closed Mon. they have musicians playing during the evening and they have belly dancers. Another chance to dine sitting on the floor {although they do have other seats}and eating with your hands
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Pasha's
Cuisine: Moroccan Middle Eastern Mediterranean
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Polk St./Van Ness |
11/5/2004
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This is a great thai restaurant that offers great food at decent enough prices in a neihborhood where you better walk or take public transit unless you have great parking gods on your side. worth the wait.
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Thep Phanom Thai Cuisine
Cuisine: Thai
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Lower Haight |
11/5/2004
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although this is a borderline neighborhood in my book, I was surprised by the quality of food and the reasonable prices. I can't remember what we ordered but I do remembering clean plates. take care at night.
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Naan n' Curry
Cuisine: Pakistani Indian
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Tenderloin |
11/5/2004
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This is not only a fun place to eat but a great social experiment. the employees are all ex cons who are making a new start. the menu is quite varied and the prices are affordable. It is another spot for fun outdoor dining near the water.
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Delancey Street
Cuisine: American (Traditional)
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Embarcadero |
11/5/2004
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This is a great place to get fresh baked bread, pizzas and bakery treats. a great addition to our neighborhood.
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Arizmendi Bakery
Cuisine: Bakery
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Inner Sunset |
11/5/2004
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although I have never eaten the food here, we have gone MANY times to get the ice cream. This used to be the ONLY place in SF to get Green tea ice cream besides a Japanese restaurant, 20 years ago. I think that years ago it was more of a hot place because he had unusual ice cream selections, which now are standard fare in 2004. still love the green tea and he has a zippy ginger ice cream.
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Joe's Ice Cream
Cuisine: american Hamburgers Hot Dogs Dessert
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Outer Richmond |
11/5/2004
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another gem on Belden alley. outdoor dining on nice days and nights. wonderful Italian cuisine. tasty food, reasonable prices and the staff is pretty on the ball. festive atmosphere when you are lucky enough for dining outdoors. of course the tiramisu is a very tasty way to end your meal. charming
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CafeTiramisu
Cuisine: Italian
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Downtown |
11/5/2004
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This is a very dependable Japanese restaurant near the Opera House and Symphony Hall. All the standard Japanese dishes along with sushi. Prices are affordable and the staff is congenial. I recommend reservations if you are going when the cultural events are on or you could be shut out.
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Opera Plaza Sushi
Cuisine: Japanese Sushi
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Civic Center |
11/5/2004
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Harris's has wonderfully fabulous aged beef that they raise on their own ranch in central California. The dining room and the patrons are as old as the hills. they charge for everything. at Ruth's Chris-all steaks come with 1 side dish but Harris's is plus, plus, plus. Staff is very stiff, no humor at all. A bit rich for my blood, I am not the meat eater in the family but was happy with my lobster.
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Harris' Restaurant
Cuisine: Steakhouses
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Polk St./Van Ness |
11/5/2004
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This is a chain restaurant throught the US and has multiple locations in SF. Very fun and festive atmosphere. always a great place for parties....food is typical tex mex fare that is very dependable and affordable, beer on tap and funloving staff. we go to the Emb. center 1 before going to the Embarcadero theater to catch a flick
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Chevy's Fresh Mex
Cuisine: Tex-mex Mexican
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Embarcadero |
11/5/2004
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another SF instituiton that has been around for decades. Ice cream that can't be beat. be sure to sit in and enjoy your cone or better yet get a banana split and share..
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Swensen's Ice Cream
Cuisine: Ice Cream
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Pacific Heights |
11/5/2004
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This used to be a great place for quick good food. service never was overly good, but the food was better than now. Last time we went there we were rather disappointed. prices are still Ok, but the quality has gone.
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Yuet Lee
Cuisine: Chinese Seafood
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Chinatown |
11/5/2004
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This is a fun place to go with out of towners. It is a bit hokey but can be fun. This is more for the environment than the food. I would stick to drinks and just for a short visit but a must see for visitors.
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Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar
Cuisine: Pacific Rim
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Nob Hill |
11/5/2004
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Ricks is a nice neighborhood restaurant with a nautical theme. a blended menu is offered but they do seafood best. The portions are pretty big and the prices don't kill your wallet. wait staff is on the ball.
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Rick's Restaurant and Bar
Cuisine: Hawaiian Eclectic
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Outer Sunset |
11/5/2004
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There are several of these throughout the city and there is at least 1 at SFO. Not a real restaurant but a take out place. Not only do they have warming yummy soups, but for the health conscious they have printouts of the nutritional components of the different soups and the Weight Watchers equivalent points.
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San Francisco Soup Company
Cuisine: Soups
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Downtown |
11/5/2004
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This a wonderful {small} place that serves up very tasty, healthy mediterrean fare. I just love lots of small things on my plate rather than a lot of 1 thing...staff is just fine and the prices are affordable.
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La Mediterranee
Cuisine: Middle Eastern Mediterranean
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Upper Fillmore |
11/5/2004
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another wonderful SMALL neighborhood bistro that does a great job making their patrons feel welcome. food is typical and delightful French fare. I wouldn't go without a reservation, just so you are not disappointed.
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Hyde Street Bistro
Cuisine: French (Bistro)
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Russian Hill |
11/5/2004
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Another great neighborhood restaurant. My sister had her wedding here a few years ago and they did a faboo job. I think there were 25 of us, no one rcvd a cold plate. Food is quite tasty and the staff is friendly and helpful with suggestion. valet parking is a MAJOR plus here as parking is a REAL nightmare, although the new Jewish community center a few doors down now has 200 parking places
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Garibaldis
Cuisine: Mediterranean Californian
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Presidio Heights |
11/5/2004
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This is THE place for yummy submarine sandwiches and tasty fried potatoes. After the subs are assembled they are put into an oven and quick heated...the pototoes are sliced whole..not like french fires...No fine cuisine here, just GREAT subs.
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Yellow Submarine
Cuisine: Submarines Sandwiches
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Inner Sunset |
11/5/2004
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This is another place that you go for the nostalgia not the food. ordinary diner fare in a festive reto environment. if you want burgers and shakes it's OK
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Johnny Rockets
Cuisine: hamburgers
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Marina |
11/5/2004
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small neighborhood restaurant who has the best spicy shoestring fries. we order that as soon as we sit down. you can do a tradtion ristafel plate here {multiple small dishes} and the noodles and peanut sauce is yum yum yum. Staff is present but not overly friendly.
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Java Restaurant
Cuisine: Indonesian
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Inner Richmond |
11/5/2004
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Now this is a place that you must dig deep into your pocket to get out the door, but it is worth- it in every aspect. the setting is wonderfully inviting. the specialty is seafood and very expertly prepared. the service is very professional. we had a party of 18 and NO one had any minor complaint, and there were a few nit pickers with us. No one found fault. Great place for a special night out splurge, you won't be disappointed.
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Farallon
Cuisine: Seafood
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Downtown |
11/5/2004
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No one can beat Blondies for the size of pizza and turnover. very close to the cable car end of line. for a quick tasty affordable slice, this is the place. the slices are HUGE, definitley 2 handed eating.
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Blondie's Pizza
Cuisine: pizza
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Downtown |
11/5/2004
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This is another wonderful small bistro that does a great job. the quarters are a bit cramped but it feels more like Paris because of that. dependable food and good prices, we always enjoy stopping there for dinner.
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Baker Street Bistro
Cuisine: French (Bistro)
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Cow Hollow |
11/5/2004
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I had stayed away from Zuni's for years as I kept hearing about snooty staff. A friend treated us to dinner there a few months back and I had a few surprises. I did love how the restaurant just meanders and has all those different levels. I was quite amused by the waiter and his presentation of specials of the day. Felt like I was watching a comedy show but he was serious...the food was not bad but the value doesn't match. once was enough for me
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Zuni Cafe
Cuisine: Mediterranean
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Hayes Valley |
11/5/2004
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Here a wonderful only in SF place. staff doubles as wait staff and entertainers-great drag -lip sync performances. food is a nice surpirse. we ordered many of the dishes for the table every time we went and just shared. fun exotic cocktails, but it's really the show that is the focus. Great fun. Wonderful place to bring out of towners since Finnocchio's closed
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AsiaSF
Cuisine: Californian Asian
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SoMa |
11/5/2004
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This is a small mom and pop operation. They are very friendly and inviting. Good sushi at OK prices. they give you little extras, which is always a nice treat. They have a specials board that changes.
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Mama-san
Cuisine: Japanese
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Inner Richmond |
11/5/2004
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This is a warm friendly Italian restaurant just a few paces from West Portal station. The atmosphere is very inviting and relaxing. The food is wonderfully prepared and affordable. The staff does go the extra mile, wine list is OK....love the polenta dish and the melanzane. we always order extra so we can have left overs on the weekend. I have been here probably 20 times over the past few years and have never been disappointed.
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Spiazzo Caffe
Cuisine: Italian
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West Portal |
11/5/2004
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Family style eat it and beat it restaurant. can get very busy during peak dinner hours. reasonably priced food. I love their dried fried calamari-it is spicy and yummy, can be quite addictive. Definitely can't eat just 1.
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San Tung
Cuisine: Mandarin
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Inner Sunset |
11/5/2004
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calling all tactile diners. Do you like to eat with your hands???This is the place for you. Big plates served with interesting food and a spongy type bread that is used as your food. they have vegetarian dishes also. Service is warm and friendly and prices are very reasonable
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New Eritrea Restaurant
Cuisine: Eritrea Ethiopian Vegatarian
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Inner Sunset |
11/5/2004
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This is a nice hushand and wife operation in the outer avenues. Good Italian fare at reasonable prices. They have a very nice room a few step up off the dining room for a private party of 12-18 people. Fun paintings around the restaurant {I think the owner and chef did it}of real places in Italy, that make you want to go and visit. Molto buono
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DI Grande's Italian & Seafood
Cuisine: Italian Seafood
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Outer Sunset |
11/5/2004
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This is an good place for affordable dim sum in the outer avenues. I only had dinner there once but the pace was too frentic for me. the satff was busy and they were RUNNING around so much that I was dizzy and exhausted by the time I left. Stick to the dim sum.
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Hong Kong Seafood Restaurant
Cuisine: Chinese
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Outer Sunset |
11/5/2004
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THIS is where to dine before Beach Blanket babylon {be sure to purchase the coveted Cyril Magnin seats which are GUARANTEED, upstairs balcony-so you don't have to wait in line}this is a very fun Irish restaurant with great food, {salmon boxty anyone}, lively atmosphere, friendly service and of course some fine beers on tap. The bar is a happening place at cocktail time, but that doesn't interfere with the dining room
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O'Reilly's Irish Pub & Restaurant
Cuisine: Irish Pub Food
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North Beach |
11/5/2004
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This is another restaurant that is much larger than it appears. upstairs there is room for 50, there are several areas for private parties....they serve food with their garlic, even down to garlic ice cream..the bagna clada is superb...roasted garlic in hot olive oil with anchovies and bread..what a way to start a meal. They even opened in LA and were talking about Vegas, not sure what happened on that 1. garlic lovers unite
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Stinking Rose
Cuisine: Italian Californian
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North Beach |
11/5/2004
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definitely old style Italian feel. good place for a few drinks before Beach Blanket but dine elsewhere.
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Capp's Corner
Cuisine: Italian
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North Beach |
11/5/2004
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I agree with Iluomo. There was such potential here. SF is not a dependable place for outdoor dining, to limit your indoor space...selling products is the focus here, not serving diners. Good winery but a bad attempt at a restauant that will last thetest of time with locals.
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Cafe Zoetrope
Cuisine: Italian Pizza
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North Beach |
11/5/2004
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Johnny Foley's is a huge Irish Pub where there are many different areas for a private party. Irish Pub grub type fare with lots of pictures of famous Irishers in history, maps and just a general feel that you're not in SF anymore. Festive atmosphere, sometimes you have to elbow you way past the bar to the dining area. service friendly and competant. their theme is "it's time for a pint"
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Johnny Foley's Irish House
Cuisine: Irish Pub Food
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Downtown |
11/5/2004
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this is a dependable spot for HUGE portions and the tastiest desserts. The staff that sings arias during the night add a festive flair. we always have to take food home but it is fun trying to get through some of those multiple tiered desserts. my mouth is watering just thinking of them.
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Max's Opera Cafe
Cuisine: Deli Dessert
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Civic Center |
11/5/2004
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Sam Woh's has been here forever. The hey days with Edsel Ford Fung are gone but it is still the best place for JOOK, rice soup that is cooked for hours {can get a raw egg or meat to go in soup} and yue wat-think chinese sashimi salad. multiple ingredients {other than the fish} that you squeeze lemon on and toss together..yummy, yummy The rest of the food is just barely OK. you actually enter at the kitchen and climb up 2 or 3 flights until you find an open table. An SF institution
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Sam Wo
Cuisine: Chinese
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Chinatown |
11/5/2004
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the setting at Ana Mandara is quite nice and the property is deceiving, it's quite large. They have many areas for small groups to have parties. we were a group of 25 and felt that we were the only ones at the restaurnt our area was so private. it is expensive but good food. a nice treat for a splurge
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ANA MANDARA
Cuisine: French (New) Vietnamese
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Fishermans Wharf |
11/5/2004
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sydney's home is recently opened and a fab place for downhome comfort food in a relaxed environment. all the dishes we sampled {6} were extremely tasty and well prepared. the meat eaters were raving that the mean was just falling off the bone. wine list is affordable. they have an all day happy hour drink special-they offer a 3 course early bird dinner for 11.99 but it is only from 4-5:30, {really early}. lots of underground parling at Jewish C Center
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Sydney's Home
Cuisine: American (comfort food)
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Presidio Heights |
11/5/2004
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this is a small neighborhood restaurnt that turns out consisiently fabulous tahi food at reasonable pirces. if you are lucky enough to live in the Richmond, they deliver. quiet and gracious service.
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Chiang Mai Thai Cuisine
Cuisine: Thai
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Outer Richmond |
11/4/2004
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Belden Alley has so many wonderful small restaurants. 3 of us went here for lunch and ordered different items and were all very satisfied. I thoroughly enjoyed my mussels.
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Plouf
Cuisine: French Seafood
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Downtown |
11/4/2004
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another wonderful small French restaurant that serves authentic Breton crepes. the savory crepes are properly made with the buckwheat batter...yummy, yummy...I'm not a big french fry person but these are quite tasty. don't forget to order cider, the true compliment to crepes.
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Galette
Cuisine: French Dessert
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Upper Fillmore |
11/4/2004
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Kitaro always seems to be quite busy. another place where there are so many options that it is dizzying. very affordable prices for consisently OK food. not bad but nothing to rave about except the low prices. service can be quite hectic and rushed.
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Kitaro Restaurant
Cuisine: sushi japanese
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Outer Richmond |
11/4/2004
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This is a hopping spot that offer many, many choices at reasonable prices. Place is thronged with familes during dinner hour. It is an eat it and beat it type atmosphere, but good value and yummy food.
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Kiki's Japanese Restaurant
Cuisine: Japanese Asian Sushi
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Inner Sunset |
11/4/2004
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This place has been in operation since the late 1800's. If you have a need for tanking up on hearty german fare, this is the spot for you. If not just go for the festive atmosphere and enjoy some of the dozen and half beers they have on tap. zer goot
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Schroeder's
Cuisine: German
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Downtown |
11/4/2004
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This is another Japanese restaurant that starts to feed you as soon as you sit down. They bring you soup, tea and an appetizer and it includes dessert. very funny restaurant, Japanese owner with mexican sushi chefs and Chinese waitresses, truly ecclectic San Francisco. Good food and good prices. staff is friendly.
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Ichiraku Japanese Restaurant
Cuisine: Japanese Sushi
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Inner Richmond |
11/4/2004
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This is for those who want to relive the "happy days" of their youth or the romance of the diner days. food is not the reason to come here. Burgers, shakes and fries are the mainstay, the service is inconsistent-- sometimes you can get a real good 1. Festive environment for average fare, but sometimes it's more of the memories that we go for, rather than the food.
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Mel's Drive-In
Cuisine: Coffee Shops/Diners
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Inner Richmond |
11/4/2004
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this little place really surprised me. One feels that they are going into an average clean cafe, nothing outstanding...But the food is not only great value it is wonderfully delicious. They have a prix fix dinner menu with soup or salad and entree for 13.95, and food was outstanding. they have a big room in the back for private parties.
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Lakeside Cafe
Cuisine: American
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Lake View |
11/4/2004
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I am not a meat eater but have dined at several of the steakhouses in the city. This one has good service and dependable food. I had the lobster which was HUGE and yummy, but the steak eaters were in HEAVEN ..all steaks include 1 side dish, each person ordered a different 1 and we shared with the whole table. Good spot for a group dinner.
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Ruth's Chris Steak House
Cuisine: Steakhouses
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Polk St./Van Ness |
11/4/2004
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another SF neighborhood institution. they have been serving up pizzas and yummy Italian food here for over 20 years. they do a wonderful eggplant dish rollenteen {sp?} Lots of locals here, may have to wait on weekends for a bit, but it's worth it.
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Ernestos Pizza Restaurant
Cuisine: italian pizza
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Outer Richmond |
11/4/2004
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This restaurant was quite a surprise. gracious service with fabulously wonderful tasty food. We had a whole fish that was fried with a yummy sauce that was quite outstanding.
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Cha AM Restaurant
Cuisine: Thai
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SoMa |
11/4/2004
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This is one of my favorite SF romantic restaurants. It is downstairs in the Cornell Hotel where you will be transported to medieval France. They have many nooks and crannies for intimate romantic dinners for 2 or very small groups. they have a good value 4 course dinner. Food is simply divine. you can practice your french here. the hotel has great package rates that include breakfast and dinner at very reasonable rates. Nice for a special birthday, anniversary or a treat because it's Friday.
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Jeanne D'arc
Cuisine: French
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Downtown |
11/4/2004
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Calzone's is a fun place with homemade pastas, great pizzas and some tasty desserts. They have a long storefront with outdoor seating possible on nice days and nights. They also have an upstairs where there are several spots to accommodate party groups.
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Calzone's Pizza Cucina
Cuisine: Italian
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North Beach |
11/4/2004
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This is a place that has OK food in a nice environment. The portions are huge, so it is definiately a place to get a few dishes for the table and share. the waiters are quite high pressure and sometimes think that you don't have the brains to order what you would like, so they push their choices on you.
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Caffe Sport
Cuisine: Italian
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North Beach |
11/4/2004
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The atmosphere is exquisite, the service quite professional, the food is yummy and can be creative, but give me a break on the prices. For my money I'll go elsewhere, if you're paying I'm in...haha
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BOULEVARD
Cuisine: American (New)
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Embarcadero |
11/3/2004
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This place has been handing out free wine to waiting diners since the late 70's. neighborhood type restaurant, seafood is their speciality. service is cheerful enough.
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Pacific Cafe
Cuisine: Seafood
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Outer Richmond |
11/3/2004
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This is my to go place for Dim Sum. Yes you have to wait but it is great. They also offer great dinners with tanks of prawns and fresh fish. upstairs is a great place for a big party they can section off part of the dining room with shoji panels for "private dining"
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Ton Kiang
Cuisine: Dim Sum Chinese
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Outer Richmond |
11/3/2004
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I find the food to be good enough but the interior is so dark to me, it interferred with my enjoyment of dinner
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Tia Margarita
Cuisine: Mexican
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Outer Richmond |
11/3/2004
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The feel of Thailand is here. The food is not bad, but the ambience is better. sitting on the floor gets to some. They do offer dancing on weekends. service is very professional and quite gracious. Nice for a romantic dinner.
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Khan Toke Thai House
Cuisine: Thai
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Outer Richmond |
11/3/2004
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I am not overly thrilled with all you can eat places. Very popular, good concept {same type dinner called Shaybu Shabu in Japan} and affordable prices. Heavy on the meats, some food looks like it's been sitting there for a while. I'll pass but it can get crowded at dinner time.
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Coriya Hot Pot City
Cuisine: Chinese Barbecue
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Inner Richmond |
11/3/2004
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another dependable place that's been around for a long time. Food is basic America fare but done well. They offer some daily specials. Service is friendly, and Wooden booths add to the enjoyment. This is the type of place where they know your name after a few visits. local neighborhood place
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Clement Street Bar and Grill
Cuisine: American
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Inner Richmond |
11/3/2004
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Here is proof that SF has almost every type of cuisine in the world. This 1 has been here for over 20 years. service is gracious and friendly and the food is very tasty.
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Angkor Wat Cambodian Restaurant
Cuisine: Cambodian
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Inner Richmond |
11/3/2004
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An SF institution. If you want seafood that is fresh, fresh, fresh..this is the place...casual atmosphere well worth the inevitable wait, but good things come to he who waits. can get fish to go or dine in.
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Swan Oyster Depot
Cuisine: Seafood
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Polk St./Van Ness |
11/2/2004
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What a wonderful way to dine...nibbly bits throughout the night. I couldn't wait to go to Spain and try the tapas after dining here. Lots of wonderful and tasty choices.
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Alegrias, Food From Spain
Cuisine: Spanish Tapas
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Marina |
11/2/2004
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Our waiter was quite put off that we brought our own wine, even though it was a 1979 Chateau Montelena chardonnay and they would charge us 15.00. overwhemingly snooty attitude until he poured it and saw the liquid gold dripping into our glasses. too late by then. think he gave up on us. long intervals between courses. didn't get end of night treats. quite costly would not repeat even if soemone else was paying. High brow attitude
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AQUA
Cuisine: Californian French Basque Seafood
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Downtown |
11/2/2004
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This is a friendly neighborhood Japanese restaurant which also serves burgers, for mixed palates. Reliable tasty food at reasonable prices. Chirashi is great value.
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Ichi Ban Kan Cafe
Cuisine: Japanese Asian
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Inner Sunset |
11/2/2004
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This is a fun Japanese restaurant that feeds you even before you order, even includes ice cream. Friendly staff, can get a little behind during the rush. If you register with them they send you a free dinner around your birthday. I'm pretty sure that they have reduced price appetizers and drink specials in early evening.
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Sushi Rock
Cuisine: Japanese Sushi
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Polk St./Van Ness |
11/2/2004
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Now this is a San Francisco special place. Having a window table when the sun is setting with one of their own brews and good company can't be beat. Menu was quite nice. staff is acommodating and offers suggestions. the new bar area in the back is also nice for drinks and noshing. There can be a wait even with a reservation and window tables are not guaranteed but they do try to make all happy. try the beer sampler..yum, yum
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Beach Chalet Brewery
Cuisine: American (Traditional)
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Outer Richmond |
11/2/2004
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This is the ORIGINAL Chow. down home, heart warming food in a bustling atmosphere. Usually a wait but it goes pretty quickly. I agree if you like Ginger the cake is critically important to experience.
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Chow
Cuisine: American (Traditional)
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Upper Market/Church Street |
11/2/2004
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Cheerful setting. prices did go up but still the same tasty dishes, good size portions. Service is helful and attentive.
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Fresca
Cuisine: peruvian
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West Portal |
11/2/2004
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There is just something about Luisa's that evokes romance in me. I find the setting absolutely charming, even when we went with other friends. They refurbished it a few years ago but it still has a great feeling. lovely Italian food, good wine list. service can be overwhelmed when busy but this is a place to linger over dinner, not eat it and beat it.
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Luisa's
Cuisine: Italian
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Cow Hollow |
11/2/2004
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I wasn't to thrilled the first time I went there but decided to give it another shot as we were such great fans of IVY's that was there before. The 2nd time only reinforced what we felt the first time. Not very many choices for non meat eaters, staff aloof- you should be thrilled that we 're waiting on you attitude. Interesting setting but too much cost for too little value.
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Absinthe
Cuisine: French Brasseries
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Hayes Valley |
11/2/2004
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This is a great place to dine, all dressed up, before the ballet or opera. Sophisticated setting, wonderful food, some interesting creations, prix fixe specials from 5-7pm, after 8 wine dinner extravaganza, knowledgeable staff and a great wine menu. We had our first Mouvedre {sp?} here..DE-LIGHT-ful
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Indigo
Cuisine: American (New)
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Civic Center |
11/2/2004
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This is a fun place but definitely with a young hip crowd. Intersting drinks, loud music but great yummy asian tapas
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RoHan Lounge
Cuisine: Pan-Asian Korean
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Inner Richmond |
11/2/2004
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Chapeau is another 1 of those wonderful- close your eyes and you think you are dining in France places. Parking is quite brutal as it is really in a residential neighborhood but it is worth it. Every day except Friday and Sat they have a great value early bird 3 course dinner from 5-6 pm for $19.00, only 2 choices per category but sublime food. fabulous wine list
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Chapeau!
Cuisine: French (Bistro)
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Inner Richmond |
11/2/2004
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Clementine is where you go when you need a real taste of France. It is melt in the mouth, oh THIS is what they are talking about when they praise french food place. They have a great-3 course prix-fix Tues-Thurs for $24.00, wonderful value for sublime food
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Clementine
Cuisine: French (Bistro)
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Inner Richmond |
11/2/2004
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Park Chow has comfort food that my mother never made. Fun, warming {fireplace inside} atmosphere and you can dine outside almost all year round, although you must be prepared to wait on the weekend.
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Park Chow
Cuisine: American (Traditional)
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Inner Sunset |
11/2/2004
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Although Ebisu generates great crowds waiting on the street I don't find that the quality that they offer or the service {hit or miss} is so superior to others, especially for the prices that they charge. They were the first to have innovative rolls which are not listed on the menu. You have to be "in the know" to order these or be lucky to see it being served when you're there. There are a few other choices in the same area that offer better value without the wait.
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Ebisu
Cuisine: Japanese Sushi
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Inner Sunset |
11/2/2004
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Nice to have a dependable affordable place where you can expect all the places to be serving the same food...I'm not a fan of chain restuarants but this one is quite consisently reliable with some interesting options...They have a wonderful butternut squash ravioli that I love and I am not a pasta fan. They also have a tasty polenta appetizer. Staff has always been cordial and some downright fun.
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Pasta Pomodoro
Cuisine: Italian
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Inner Sunset |
11/2/2004
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PJ's is fun but quite LOUD, so not condusive to small talk...the counter is a fun place to sit and watch dinner being made. Yummy seafood. They do Cajun based menus around Mardi gras time.
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PJ's Oyster Bed
Cuisine: Creole Seafood
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Inner Sunset |
11/2/2004
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Good spot for a step into the past with counter seating and affordable breakfast and lunches
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Art's Cafe
Cuisine: breakfast diner korean
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Inner Sunset |
11/2/2004
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nice fondue-groups beware-tip added automatically-charge slip presented with tip line blank-we tipped over 30% by this-did make adjustment when we realized and called few days later-by our actions not theirs-also charge all, per person for slicing outside cakes no matter how few partake
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Matterhorn Swiss Restaurant
Cuisine: Swiss Fondue
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Polk St./Van Ness |
10/28/2004
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Great for brunch....great ginger pancakes and fun HUGE cups for lattes and mochas
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Zazie
Cuisine: French (Bistro)
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Haight-Ashbury/Cole Valley |
10/28/2004
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Food is creative, .. good beer is made on the premises..happy hour beer specials from 5-7 weeknights....they have some yummy, yummy desserts
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Eldo's Grill & Microbrew
Cuisine: Southwestern
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Inner Sunset |
10/28/2004
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