Ever since I was in high school, I’ve participated in Dine About Town (for those of you keeping score, that was about six years ago. Merp.).
D.A.T. is a biannual event where prominent restaurants across SF feature 2-course lunches and/or 3-course dinners for $18.95 and $36.95, respectively. It’s a thrifty way to check out restaurants you normally wouldn’t eat at and experience the menu in its entirety.
As an ode to Dine About Town, which kicked off yesterday and runs through the end of the month, I’m giving y’all the top 10 of my favorite restos to eat from! You can find the full list of restaurants and make reservations through the web site.
Because I do things before they’re cool, I already had my 3-course dinner experience last night with an awesome meal at Roka Akor. Check out the photos and my favorites list below!
All about D.A.T.
Best Lunch:
Absinthe
Not only am I a huge fan of their pastry chef, Bill Corbett, the savory options at this French spot are great. Try one of their sandwiches and naturally, don’t skip dessert.
Campton Place
My old pastry chef came from here, and knowing her talent, it’s no secret that this place is great. California cuisine mixed with spicy overtones – can’t go wrong.
Cavalier
This place has been open less than a year and is making waves. Go true British style and get fish and chips.
Best Signature Dishes:
Marlowe
I never get tired of this place. If you don’t get the burger, then don’t bother coming here.
Nombe
In case you haven’t already heard, this is where the ramen burger happens. Get it.
Best Bang for Your Buck:
Amber India
I have a hard time justifying paying a lot of money for Indian food when my mom is the best cook out there, but Amber does take this cuisine to another level. Don’t miss the veggie kofta and mango brûlée.
Blowfish Sushi
There’s no blowfish actually on the menu (or you might die), but there is an awesome albacore sashimi and beignets that while not French, are worth eating.
Roka Akor
I just ate here last night and loved it. The miso cod was light and fluffy, and I could eat their pavlova every night forever.
Best Group Spots:
Cupola
Don’t think that just because it’s in a mall it’s not good. This is great pizza, and the atmosphere would never let you think you are inside Westfield.
Luna Park
This is a pretty casual place, and not that expensive to begin with, but it’s a fun spot for homey food. Just get the mac and cheese and call it a day.
Amanda says
This is so cool!! I live in Davis, so a trip to the city for some good eats is not out of the question. I might just have to try Absinthe out 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
Shikha says
Definitely make a weekend trip to SF and try one of these places out, it’ll be so worth it! Plus, the weather is weirdly amazing right now, so take advantage 🙂
Erika says
Omg stopppp. I want to get in on this so bad. I just found out about Houston Restaurant Month last year and omg the four-course meals. I don’t think that should be allowed in Houston with their Texas-sized portions.
Also, I love Amber!!!! So yum. And you are so well-restauranted, I think you get an award–all of these sound so so good!!!!
Shikha says
Haha I forgot that everything in Texas is bigger, including the portion sizes! You should go and take a photo just so I can see how much they put on a plate. I love that you’ve been to Amber and love it as much as I do!
shashi @ http://runninsrilankan.coms says
Those desserts look way too enticing!
Shikha says
Oh man, they are. Even if I don’t finish my food, I’ll always finish dessert!
Daniela @ FoodrecipesHQ says
Great recommendations! I’d like to try the ramen burger at Nombe.
Joanne says
I need to go to all of these the next time I”m in SF!
Tina says
Hi there,
great list, thanks! I will be travelling to S.F. soon and wanted to know your favourite vegetarian places. Also, are most places baby friendly?
We are really interested in trying new restaurants every time we are in town. This next trip will be with a baby…are there places you recommend for us?
Shikha says
Hey Tina,
So stoked to hear that you’ll be in SF! Are you looking for vegetarian-only places or places that have good veggie options? Either way, email me at skaiwarkar@gmail.com and let’s chat more!
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