 The concrete facade on the desolate Embarcadero belies the spectacular room inside. Soaring wood ceilings canopy over a large room complete with thick columns, a sea of tables and a huge lapis blue-backed bar. All of that pales in comparison to the view from expansive windows that look out onto the sparkling bay. Some nights a DJ keeps the room pulsing, other nights the bay view is a backdrop for a lively jazz band. The atmosphere takes its cue from the music, creating a boisterous, high-energy effect that makes the entire restaurant feel more like one big bar. Servers, more jovial than formal, welcome diners with a long list of specialty cocktails worth sampling---or a selection off the well-chosen wine list is also recommended. Try the lemongrass vodka served with plenty of fresh mint and lemon or a refreshing gin and grapefruit concoction splashed with Campari. The bar scene lends itself well to the small plates idea. So does the menu, which offers its best in the small plates section and seems to lose interest and skill when it comes time to deal with entrées. Start with a bowl of sesame coated edamame or fire-fried calamari. A tender mound of shredded pork is matched with toasted cashew nuts and sweet plum dipping sauce meant to be rolled up inside the crisp butter lettuce cups. The best entrée, a fried whole fish, may take some courage to order, but it's worth it. Desserts like warm chocolate cake and classic crème brûlée will win over even the most disgruntled taste buds. For the best dining experience, stick to small plates and cocktails instead of planning a more formal, three-course dinner. |
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Set the mood for love by reserving a table at one of the Best Romantic Restaurants in San Francisco, or view our list of Valentines Restaurants to find out which restaurants are offering unique menus just for February 14. Also, see who sets the standard for seductive dining across the country with our Top 10 Romantic Restaurants in the U.S. list.
