 Sarah Schafer has really come into her own and is proving to be one of San Francisco’s rising stars with her fun, laid-back menu that complements the loungey dining room. Crowned by a domed ceiling resembling the interior of an early twentieth-century ocean liner, the circular cutouts bathe the round room in rose light. Squiggling through the center of the room is an autumnal orange banquette-style sofa that curls off in many directions to surround the tables. Plates are meant to be shared, and Schafer does a great job with roasted New York strip loin with oxtail and rich bone marrow. Though sea scallops are becoming ho-hum, these are plump and juicy, and the bright flavors and varied textures of the coconut-avocado ceviche and crunchy jicama salad play well together. Lamb-and-harissa sausage is also good, but the not-to-miss dish is the slow-cooked chicken for two. Prepared sous vide, the meat falls right off the bone. Don’t shy away from the braised pig’s feet---pressed into a triangular wedge, the crisped top gives way to the rich meat beneath. Lunch standouts include fish croquettes, burrito-size fresh shrimp spring rolls, a fancy grilled cheese sandwich with French onion soup dip, and one of the better roasted monkfish we’ve come across, pancetta-wrapped and served with fried “forbidden rice.” For dinner enjoy a cocktail or wine, but at lunch try the alcohol-free elixirs such as the Zen high---a mix of mango, ginseng and passion green tea. |
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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.
