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Dopo seats about 60, but devotees still queue up on the sidewalk each evening, wine glass in hand, for a coveted seat. It’s easy to understand why---chef Jon Smulewitz, formerly a cook at Oliveto, presents inspired Italian food in a warm and friendly space. The small menu changes daily, showcasing the best of the market---one day it might be spaghetti with Manila clams, tomato, chili and garlic, or a simple salad of locally grown arugula topped with thick shavings of Parmigiano and a bright dressing. Dopo’s house-cured salumi, like the mortadella and Calabrian-style salami, hint at Smulewitz’s passion for the pig, and the curious can try a large sampler of the offerings. Be sure to order a crispy pizza from the wood oven; even the most basic combination of buffalo mozzarella and basil is a revelation. The menu is supported by a wine list showcasing good bottles from (mostly Italian) small producers, and it’s easy to find a selection to pair with your meal. Desserts are simple but not boring, often including a bracing lemon tart and a rich chocolate-almond torte. |
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.
