San Francisco has always been associated with all varieties of cuisine, which means that its fine dining options are some of the best in the world. While fresh seafood is always available, so are cuisines from around the world, featuring Asian, Indian, and European influences. With so many options, it is definitely hard to choose amongst upscale dining establishments. Here are some suggestions to help you narrow it down:
Benu
Benu is a theatrical experience. For starters, tables are set with custom-made plates, utensils, and bowls. Food comes to your table expertly plated and pretty enough to photograph. While their set tasting menu is expensive, the wine list also contains moderately priced wines. Newcomers can explore the Xiao Long Bao and Shanghai dumplings that the Chef is famous for.
Gary Danko
Located on Fisherman’s Wharf, this restaurant features “New American Cuisine” and a price fixed menu. The wine list is lengthy and the Cheese Cart never disappoints. A perfect location for celebrating a special occasion, you’ll want to order the Coconut Thai Seafood entree and finish your meal by digging into the Baked Chocolate Souffle.
Californios
Californios will transport you back to an earlier time with white linen tablecloths and deep banquette seating. The menu is created with a focus on Mexican cooking. Pair your wine with your entree for a truly remarkable experience. Your server will always have suggestions that are spot-on. For dessert, don’t forget to try the Caramel Ice Cream or homemade Mexican Wedding Cookies with your coffee.
Firefly Restaurant
Firefly dares to weave the familiarity of comfort food with the theatricality of fine dining. You’ll feel like you’ve been invited into a French country home, one with prompt servers and a seasonal menu that offers something for everyone. Don’t miss the fresh California vegetable dishes like the Broccoli Parmesan appetizer.
Campton Place
Here’s a chance to experience fine dining and sample the intricate flavors of Cal-Indian cooking. Begin your adventure by ordering from their Spice Route menu. For more traditional fare, enjoy an array of samosas on the lunch menu. All food here is seasonal, so you can expect to cool off your spiced-enhanced palate with the Key Lime Pie.
Quince
Quince features contemporary California cuisine with Italian influence, highlighting seasonal local produce in its nightly tasting menus. The restaurant itself sits in a historical building, brick-lined walls giving the dining room a stylish and yet rustic air. Add to this a sense of classic refinement, as you enjoy your dinner under the twinkling lights of a majestic Murano glass chandelier.
Have you experienced a fine dining restaurant in San Francisco that we’ve left off of our list? If so, please let us know so we can make a reservation ourselves.
