San Francisco

The most expensive meal in California is worth it. — Bon Appétit

Elegant without being stuffy, this intimate two Michelin star restaurant with a superb wine list serves sophisticated Italian fare, such as a silky ricotta-filled ravioli in butter sauce. — Where

Perfect burgers and juicy roasted chicken, cooked over an open fire, complement a menu offering a variety of Mediterranean dishes. — DK Eyewitness

Be prepared to wait your turn for a table behind chef Gary Danko's legion of loyal fans, who typically keep the reservation book chock-full here. — Fodor's

Chef Dominique Crenn is equal parts poet and chef, as evidenced by the creative titles of her tasting menu, which includes dishes like “the sea” or “walk in the forest.” — goop

Foreign Cinema is an institution in the Mission. — On the Grid

Diners "fall in love at first bite" at this "quirky" Italian "treasure" in the Mission. — Zagat

Think "dim sum mixed with fine dining" – that "really does live up to the hype" say "adventuresome" eaters. — Zagat

Pseudo blue-collar joint in warm warehouse/loft setting with ceiling fans, split-level seating, and ginormous windows. — BlackBook

Benu's chef is Corey Lee, former chef de cuisine of The French Laundry and opening sous chef at Per Se. — Gayot

A charming, family run restaurant, La Folie offers the delectable creations of Frenchman, Chef Roland Passot. — Where

The narrow, no-reservations place offers Chef Nate Appleman creations like lemony sweetbreads with celery and garlic as well as outstanding pastas. — Travel + Leisure

The first thing you’ll notice about Beretta is the elegant décor—industrial chandeliers dangle from the high ceilings and glass light fixtures dot the bar. — goop

As boring as spaghetti with tomato sauce may sound, it's been dialed to perfection here, and there would be a neighborhood revolt if it ever disappeared. — Fodor's

This laid back approach permeates the couple's quintessential, premium-casual neighborhood spot with room for 60, with rough-hewn, whitewashed walls and weathered beams. — Gayot

Master restaurant designer Pat Kuleto and chef Nancy Oakes are behind one of San Francisco's most beloved restaurants. — Frommer's

Standout dishes here include ribs made with housemade curry paste, rabbit green curry and a pad Thai made with local Dungeness crab. Expect plenty of unique dishes. — Where

Greenwich Village brick exterior, sophisticated inside with open kitchen in back, plus old school foosball table. — BlackBook