Virginia Miller

San Francisco has taken its punches—from pandemic aftershocks to overblown “doom loop” narratives that wilt under scrutiny. But anyone who deeply knows food and drink knows better. Then, as now, the City by the Bay still (trail)blazes with flavor, character and creative prowess. It’s been that way since the 1800s, when SF, NYC and New Orleans birthed cocktails as we know them. Since the 1990s, SF and NYC have been the OG driving forces behind the Cocktail Renaissance. San Francisco not only revived cocktail classics—it reimagined them, pioneering bars that think like kitchens, quietly educating on uber-fresh ingredients, seasonality, technique and storytelling in a glass. Whether honoring tradition or pushing boundaries, SF bartenders and bar owners have helped shape how the world drinks today. As for me, I’m chairperson and on committees globally and nationally at the likes of The World’s 50 Best and James Beard, judging everywhere from Tales of the Cocktail to lead judge in global spirits awards, like SF World Spirits. I’ve visited over 15,000 bars worldwide, including many hundreds locally. I started as a restaurant critic (still am), and over the span of two decades spent covering the Cocktail Renaissance as it unfolded, I fell quickly for drink as food’s equal spouse. I could easily name 100 top bars in SF alone. From century-old icons to the new vanguard, SF bars are legendary. Here are merely 18: a cross-section of SF’s past and present. Just a sip, but a deep one, int

A romantic restaurant isn’t a tall order. We just need some flattering lighting, a space quiet enough to hear each other and food that feels special in some way, either because it’s beautifully plated or because it tastes so good it’s a great precursor. A restaurant doesn’t have to be expensive to be romantic—it just has to have a certain warm, intimate vibe that mirror how the diners are feeling. Here are our 16 picks for the most romantic restaurants in San Francisco. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in San Francisco🏛️ The best museums in San Francisco🍽️ The best restaurants in San Francisco🏨 The best hotels in San Francisco  

Although we’ll always say yes to a multi-course meal with artistically plated elements, sometimes we just want to march up to a counter and get something immediately: fresh, hot and delicious despite its speed. And San Francisco delivers on that promise. Maybe post-pandemic we can’t get something for under $10 like we used to be able to, but budget-conscious choices that are still succulent and authentic can be found (we either rounded up or rounded down the prices in these listing to the nearest full dollar, not going above $15). Whether you find your happy cheap dish at a hole-in-the-wall spot, a food truck or a humble sit-down restaurant, these bites are worth more than their price—made with love and skill. Check hours before setting forth; some of these spots are only open for certain meals—and check to see if you can order ahead and circumvent the line. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in San Francisco

Palo Alto’s downtown is a fun place to walk around and dip into one of the many restaurants serving delicious fare. You might ramble one direction and come across a French patisserie; turn another corner and someone is serving wine flights in what looks like a home’s front yard. There’s an eatery that specializes in hummus, a rooftop terrace for a sunset cocktail and an Indian restaurant serving a dish that only 23 grandmothers know the recipe for. You’ll find a vast range of options in this bustling pedestrian friendly area. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in San Francisco

San Francisco may get all of the attention when it comes to being a culinary destination in the Bay Area, but don’t overlook San Jose. The capital of Silicon Valley is full of exciting places to eat, from the freshest burrito bowls to authentic Jamaican comfort food.  The restaurants in San Jose tend to be less bougie and high-end; instead they are mainly family-run spots serving authentic dishes with a whole lot of heart. The culinary landscape is also as diverse as they come—dream up a type of cuisine you’re craving and you’re likely to find it at its very best. Plus, there’s a good number of cheaper eats in addition to special occasion spots—so whatever your budget, there’s something in San Jose for you. RECOMMENDED:🌴 The essential guide to San Jose This guide was updated by Bay Area-based writer Clara Hogan. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

Southwestern food is a unique mash-up of hearty ranchero fare, Mexican food and Native American cuisines with one very important distinction: New Mexicans put Hatch green chili on everything. Whether you're dining in charming Old Town or modern downtown while exploring the top things to do in Albuquerque, be prepared to answer how you want your spice—red, green or Christmas (a mix of the two)—at any of the best restaurants in Albuquerque.  Recommended: the best hotels in Albuquerque

San Francisco’s fun side is no secret. This city is packed with fantastic bars, clubs and restaurants, and you’re never short of things to do once the sun goes down. But SF isn’t all thumping clubs and huge beer halls: some of the best nightlife in the city have actually remained a secret.  Yep, we’re talking about speakeasies, and you’ll find them dotted all around the city, hidden where you’d least expect it. These are the most secretive, swankiest spots around, and the hidden doors, great cocktails and more make them a lot of fun. Think of it as a private club without the pretentious membership fees. Here are the best speakeasies in San Francisco right now.  RECOMMENDED:⭐ The best Michelin star restaurants in San Francisco🌮 The best restaurants in San Francisco🍸 The best rooftop bars in San Francisco📍 The best things to do in San Francisco This guide was updated by Amy Sherman, a writer based in San Francisco. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

Santa Fe is, of course, known for its beautiful architecture and art scene, but that does mean its restaurant scene gets a little slept on. But scratch beneath the surface and you’ll find a ton of great restaurants in this New Mexico city, from traditional Mexican cuisine to trendy pizza joints and more.  So whether you’re looking for a seriously good Huevos Rancheros, Cubano sandwiches stuffed to the brim, dainty chocolate shops with fiery hot chocs or punchy East African stews, you’re in for a treat in Santa Fe. Read on for the very best restaurants in Santa Fe to try out right now.  RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Santa Fe⛰️ The best things to do in Albuquerque🍽️ The best restaurants in Taos

When it comes to variety, the best Indian restaurants in San Francisco are upping the ante. A batch of high-end joints recently emerged to shine a spotlight on the already great scene, while mom-and-pops serve pure nostalgia on the regular. Whether you’re hunting for home-style recipes, street food specialties, or inventive twists on the classics, there’s a bounty of fantastic South Asian fare in SF. Different countries and regions (from Pakistan to South India) and various backgrounds of trained chefs (from traditional home cooks to culinary school graduates) make for a diverse selection of deftly-spiced, slow-simmered deliciousness. The best Indian restaurants in the Bay Area span San Francisco from the Mission District to Civic Center, as well as over in the East Bay. You’ll find a range of experiences and price points — if you’re looking for high-end, don’t miss Michelin-starred Taj Campton Place, and if you're looking for something more relaxed, you’ll find fast-casual eateries like Vik’s Chaat. Take a look at these Indian restaurants in San Francisco to find the best bone-warming curries, fresh-baked naan, and authentic tandoori dishes. RECOMMENDED: the best restaurants in San Francisco

t's time to belly up to the nearest bar—SF Beer Week 2019 is almost here and there are more opportunities than ever to hammer back (er, responsibly drink) some truly outstanding brews. From February 1–10, craft beer bars, restaurants and even a few cocktail bars are playing host to tap takeovers, dinners, brunches and more, giving beer lovers in the Bay the chance to try brews both old and new. You can peruse SF Beer Week's massive schedule, or just take it from us: these are the best events during beer week. RECOMMENDED: Best beer gardens in San Francisco

It may be possible to subsist on wine alone during a wine tasting trip to Napa Valley, bouncing from one winery in Napa to the next, but you'd be missing out on an incredible culinary experience. It's not just the Michelin star restaurants that should have you excited at these Napa restaurants, though: Downtown Napa is rife with great burger joints, steakhouses and tapas spots, along with craft cocktail bars and beer bars that offer a momentary respite from all that wine. For a truly savory visit to Napa, check out our guide to the best Napa restaurants. Eaten something you love on this list? Share it under the hashtag #TimeOutEatList to show your appreciation. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Napa

Oakland's industrial Jack London Square may be the last place you'd guess to find a decent cabernet. But bespoke urban wineries, housed in renovated warehouses that once catered to the shipping industry, are using California's bountiful grape varieties to produce some if the best wines in the Bay Area (Sonoma be damned). Curious? Follow this walkable trail for a full day of tasty vino and waterfront views.

What is it? Follow flower-draped fire escapes and orange brick into a tiny alley on Columbus Avenue, just across from City Lights Bookstore. Then enter one of the greatest dive bars in the world since 1968. Why we love it: Specs’ Twelve Adler Museum Cafe is easy to miss—but impossible to forget. Part nautical dive bar hangout honoring SF’s long seafaring history and part museum oddity collection (think strange treasures like a stuffed mongoose, a petrified marine mammal’s penis or a New Guinea bone calendar), this North Beach legend has drawn in crusty sailors and poets, eclectic locals and tourists for more than half a century—and it shows. Under walls and ceilings covered with hilarious tchotchkes, a mix of cheap stiff drinks, an all-ages crowd, storytelling locals and longtime bartenders (unionized with benefits and retirement) ensure this is the kind of dive bar that deserves a place in books and movies. Whether a beer or a Negroni, like any great dive, it’s not so much about the drinks but the eccentricities and atmosphere. And Specs has this in spades. Founded by Richard “Specs” Simmons, known for his glasses and fiercely independent vision, thank God that Specs is now a designated San Francisco legacy business, run by Simmons’s daughter and granddaughter. Time Out tip: True to North Beach and Specs’ Beats and bohemian roots, the bar hosts nightly live music and readings, from poetry to live jazz and bossa nova. Address: 12 William Saroyan Pl, San Francisco, 94133Openin

What is it? Vesuvio Café isn’t just a bar—it’s a time capsule of San Francisco’s bohemian soul. Since 1948, this North Beach icon has welcomed the Beat Generation: historic regulars like Allen Ginsberg, Neal Cassady, Lawrence Ferlinghetti, Jack Kerouac. The gang’s all here, at least in spirit. Why we love it: Kerouac famously ditched Henry Miller to drink the night away at Vesuvio, later immortalizing the experience in his book Big Sur and the Oranges of Hieronymus Bosch. Today, the alley beside the bar even bears Kerouac’s name. Inside, Vesuvio feels like stepping into a rickety ship built by eccentric artists. Every inch drips with colorful, chaotic creativity: murals, vintage paintings, a cat statue and Tiffany lamps eclectically muttered across two lively floors. At the long wooden bar, grab a martini (or my preference, a classic Death in the Afternoon of absinthe and “Champagne,” beloved by Hemingway), then climb to the second-story balcony to watch the carnival below: tourists mingling with locals, embarking on drink-fueling conversations about poetry, politics and everything in between. Recently-added cocktails enhance the historically dive-y, no menu drink selection with delights like an Averna Gimlet, bitter with Averna Amaro, tart with lime juice. Craft cocktail bar? No, but they’ve stepped things up to offer a little something for everyone. Despite its fame, Vesuvio holds tight to its scrappy, unvarnished charm. The signage of a naked figure sitting on a barrel say

What is it? Officially named Aub Zam Zam but affectionately dubbed Zam Zam by locals, this dingy Arabian Nights charmer has been a Haight-Ashbury dive bar legend since 1941. But not just any dive bar: It’s a gin martini dive. Why we love it: The storied moments that have happened in this over 80-year-old bar are endless, from being an Anthony Bourdain favorite back in the day to Zam Zam’s legendary, cantankerous owner for nearly 50 years, Bruno, who kicked out anyone ordering a vodka “martini” vs. an original, proper gin martini (here, made with your choice of gin, including local “craft” gins). Sitting around the curved, half-moon bar under the gaze of an Arabian Nights mural in the red-dominant space, SF’s best jukebox rolls out the likes of Bobby Bland to Willie Nelson effortlessly. I can vividly remember a night here when a twentysomething guy announced he was about to move to NYC. Someone popped Sinatra’s “New York, New York” on the jukebox, while everyone from a seventysomething Haight-Ashbury hippie who had lived in the neighborhood since the Summer of Love days, to my friends visiting from England, were singing lustily together over stiff (still) $10 martinis that can leave you blissfully blurry after just two. Time Out tip: Zam Zam’s blessed daily, afternoon-into-evening and late-night hours make this an ideal stop for an icy martini post-vintage shopping on Haight Street. or Golden Gate Park strolls, or for those post-midnight rambles. Just a heads up: It remains ca

What is it? Hidden on an upstairs courtyard facing a fountain under towering high-rises, Venetian cicchetti (bar snacks)-inspired Bar Sprezzatura is a cocktail destination and one of the sexiest dining rooms in the city.Why we love it: I don’t use sexy casually. Bar Sprezzatura’s (affectionately titled Bar Sprz) all-day space transports you to Venice in a glass-walled dining room marked by tan and soft blue velvet seating and Parisian-esque street lamps. From day into night, it’s seductive, alluring and glowing, with service from a gracious team that includes Italian expats like longtime SF bar pioneer Carlo Splendorini, Raymundo Delgado and chef Joseph Offner.This team keeps it delicious with Offner’s winning cichetti, crudo, pastas, salads and decadence like Stracci & Caviar: Caviar Co. caviar atop stracciatella cheese with pears, asparagus and cured egg yolk. Splendorini, Delgado and team’s cocktails are gorgeous, from creative Negronis and spritzes to elevated classics and house cocktails. In true Venetian form, some of the cocktails come with paired cicchetti. Expect fun like Tutto Fumo, a cocktail of Parmigiano-Reggiano rind-washed Manojo Mezcal with apricot, Calabrian chilies, honey, lemon and frothy egg whites. Also expect thoughtful non-alcoholic cocktails and a deep, regional Italy wine list.  We especially love the staff’s exuberant spirit and consummate professionalism that imparts soul to this elegant space.  Time Out tip: Spirits lovers like me lose their mind f

What is it? Perched 17 stories above SoMa, Cavaña is the kind of rooftop bar that lives up to the hype—and the view. With the Bay Bridge sparkling on one side and sunsets spilling behind Twin Peaks on the other, it’s one spectacular bar—with food and drink to actually keep up with the view. Why we love it: Beyond the skyline and Instagrammable angles, Cavaña is special for its exceptional cocktails and Latin American soul. The space hums with color and rhythm, from leafy patios and firepits to curated playlists. But it’s the tight cocktail menu, led by twin brothers—beverage director Emilio Salehi and bar manager Miguel Salehi—that anchors Cavaña. Their creations weave through Latin America. Their Caipirinha is the best in (most any) town, taking more than a little inspiration from a classic Ti Punch, but hitting all the notes of Brazil’s national cocktail. Lime peel essence and oils with just a touch of lime juice and sugar let the cachaça shine, smartly served on crushed ice so it’s still grassy and refreshing. The bold Banano wows with layers from Santa Teresa 1796 rum, Havana Club rum, Mr. Black coffee liqueur, banana milk, PX sherry and a cold brew coffee float. Their silky, milk-clarified Kiwi cocktail showcases Lost Explorer mezcal espadin, Singani 63 Bolivian brandy, kiwi, hoja santa, Chareau aloe liqueur and lime: a lesson in layers. Time Out tip: Chef Edwin Bayone III pays tribute to countries from Mexico to Peru with joy in dishes like in his on-point birria, arepa

What is it? As the adjoining bar to its Michelin-starred (superb) parent restaurant Nisei, Bar Iris is its own destination for inspired modern Japanese food and culinary, unique cocktails.Why we love it: The bar is intimate, subtle, sleek and ever-packed, but friendly, unpretentious and a standout restaurant and cocktail bar in its own right. Brilliant Nisei chef-owner David Yoshimura gives Bar Iris its own love with expert-but-more-casual dishes like miso cream cheese-stuffed shishito peppers, shrimp shiso tempura and meticulous handrolls (temaki).Bar manager Timofei Osipenko wows with a unique 12 cocktail book outlining flavor profiles, balanced with a food lover’s palate and drink geek precision: Think a frothy Kumquat Sour featuring a house kumquat kosho instead of traditional yuzu kosho. The kosho’s lively fermented chili, salt and kumquat peel is shaken with Nikka gin, Iichiko Saiten shochu, Aixa bianco vermouth, Leopold Bros. orange blossom liqueur, lemon and egg white, worthy of brunch yet ushering you brightly into the night.The Uni cocktail is a spendy, creamy anomaly at $37 given its use of costly sea urchin. Served in a little round ceramic cup, it’s dessert for savory umami lovers. Sauternes wine from Bordeaux plays with slightly bitter-sweet, citrus-laden Alma Quinquina en Rama, yuzu sake, banana, egg yolk and just a touch of Laphroaig Quarter Cask Scotch whisky—a whole egg flip cocktail that goes umami, slightly smoky and hints of the sea. Yes, these are drinks

What is it? In a neighborhood packed with famed bars like nearby Trick Dog and True Laurel, Lost Resort is the festive, friendly locals spot—tucked away, in keeping with world-class quality of the neighborhood’s restaurants and bars. Why we love it: Serving cocktails crushable yet “craft-y” enough to appeal to drink lovers with fab bar food, Lost Resort is also a retro-nautical charmer, complete with vintage seafaring paintings, coiled rope, wood-paneled walls and a backyard patio lined with colorful vintage lawn chairs. It’s the brainchild of Brad Burt, Nate Valentine, Jeff Jurow and Britt Miller. The vibe is laid-back but at certain hours it can feel like a convivial house party, packed with friends on the patio, cozy dates and companions indoors. Friendly bartenders and staff bring out crowd-pleasing dishes like Fresno chili pimento cheese scooped up with Old Bay Saltine crackers, surf and turf (crab and bacon) mac and cheese, fish and chips, cauliflower tacos and coconut fried chicken sandwiches. Alongside draft and canned beers, pet nat, wines and NA sippers, cocktails are balanced and delectable. Their Best F***in’ Daiquiri made with funky Mexican rum is a delight. Ditto their namesake Lost Resort cocktail mixing gin, Chartreuse, lemon and hibiscus. House signatures include the Holy Diver, a tropical, tiki-inspired blend of coffee-infused mezcal, rum, pineapple, lime, coconut milk, orange juice and cinnamon. Time Out tip: Weekend brunch is likewise a great time, with cr

What is it? Inside SF’s retro-chic hotel the Jay, newcomer Prelude is a soulful surprise of Southern cool with California spirit and innovation. The intimate, velvet-lined bar is a seductive respite all on its own. Why we love it: Chef Celtin Hendrickson-Jones’s modern Southern cooking with a California core pulls from his Sacramento upbringing with a Southern mom and grandma, growing up on ambrosia salad, fried chicken and deviled eggs. The decor evokes an elegant eucalyptus grove, setting the stage for his imaginative, unforgettable dishes like smoked catfish dumplings in crawfish étouffée or pimento cheese scooped up with fish skin chicharrones. But the bar—romantic, velvet-lined, under curved windows—is a destination in its own right. Cozy and glowing, it’s a haven for date nights, chill catch-ups or restorative solo sips. Bar director Franco Bilbaeno (formerly of Angler SF, Michael Mina group) channels Southern flavors into inventive cocktails like the P.F.C. Martini of buttermilk-washed vodka, pickle brine and the same vibrant house dry rub they use on Prelude’s crave-worthy dirty rice–stuffed chicken wings. The Country Pie is a Scotch-apple pie riff with pommeau (French apple brandy with apple juice), while the Magnolia Fizz is a roasted banana Ramos Gin Fizz riff with a dreamy texture. Time Out tip: Five house mocktails shine alongside a tight wine list from head sommelier Morgan Harris (formerly of Saison Hospitality), who champions vintage Champagne and under-the-ra

What is it? A Crocker-Amazon spot where orange banquettes, wood paneling, vintage lamps, neon 1970s wall hangings and a 1972 Wurlitzer jukebox set the retro dad’s Midwest basement tone, while a projector and giant screen (donated via Steven Soderbergh’s Singani 63 brand) signal movie and sports nights in the back dining room. Why we love it: The Halfway Club debuted January 2024 with a nostalgic yet fresh soul. Longtime friends and industry vets Ethan Terry and Greg Quinn opened their dream bar, imbued with their signature all-are-welcome hospitality. The cocktails—crafted by the duo with decades of drink cred—are tight, unfussy and pleasing. Veer from classic cocktails like an Alaska (gin, Yellow Chartreuse, bitters) to a Prairie Fire Paloma with your choice of tequila or mezcal, the grapefruit and lime amped up with chili tincture. In times past, Terry tributes his precious late pup in Ellie’s Shaggy Dog Shandy—a Scotch, peach, cider and honey highball—exemplifying the kind of heart that goes into the place. Lounging on the muraled back patio, chatting over a Chicago dog at the bar, or catching a movie in the back, the Halfway Club is the kind of place we all wish was in our neighborhood. Time Out tip: Wes Rowe of popular Wes Burger consults on the menu, elevating comfort food with whimsy, whether crab rangoon deviled eggs, French onion mac and cheese or Cincinnati-style chili fries. It all goes down beautifully with choice beers, wines and boilermakers. Address: 1166 Genev

What is it? Atop the 21st floor of the Beacon Grand, Starlite is rebirthed, all new yet an homage to the historic Harry Denton’s Starlight Room on the top floor of the 1928 hotel. Why we love it: The shimmering SF skyline and Bay views from the 21st floor stand with the world’s best hotel bars with a view, tying together SF’s past with today. Gay icon Harry Denton’s parties, drag shows, cocktails and dancing in this space made him a nightlife impresario and fashion legend who helped define the 1970s and ‘80s across SF (and soon after here at Starlite). While it’s not quite the same without him, the stunning space feels like one he would have loved. Recalling his leopard shoes when I’d run into him in the elevator before he passed away, the new Starlite soothes with velvets, dark green and mustard yellows, shaking it up contrasted with zebra prints, vibrant florals and hints of hot pink. It’s tasteful and memorable. Best of all, the food and drink is better than it’s ever been with elevated bar food from a killer smashburger to a burrata toast that’s far better than it sounds. Cocktails are by Scott Baird, who cofounded Trick Dog over a decade ago and has created many bar menus since—and runs the fantastic Mendocino County roadhouse, Jimbo’s Win Win. His Starlite menu pays tribute to SF bartenders and storied drinks in a fresh way, including bar pioneer Tony Abou-Ganim, who created the modern classic Cable Car cocktail at Harry Denton’s in the 1990s. Baird’s Cable Car includes

What is it? Dawn Club is rare in any city: a sleek, expansive downtown jazz club, hidden off an alley by the Palace Hotel, inviting you to dress the part. As someone weaned on old movies as a girl, it evokes the 1940s supperclubs that I dreamed of. Why we love it: SF’s longtime Future Bars group nailed it (they’re behind legends like Bourbon and Branch, opened in 2006). Dawn Club arises as if out of a Fred and Ginger movie, minus the dance floor. It’s the kind of club where you could imagine Lena Horne crooning or Harry James striking up his band, set to glowing tableside lamps and a massive walk of whiskies and spirits. A love letter to jazz’s golden age, Dawn Club accomplishes nightly live music, whether jazz trios/quartets or serenader-backed bands. While supper’s off the menu (dine before or after), the spirit feels cinematic, worthy of a date night or a sadly oft-forgotten “night on the town.” Bar seats offer limited stage views but front-row access to the spirits, ideal for whisk(e)y lovers drawn to the global selection. Cocktails lean pricey ($19–$24), but not when you realize there’s no cover charge, though there is a reservation fee for small groups, which goes to the musicians (but they waive even that between 5 and 7pm nightly). There are more revolutionary cocktails in town but these are well-made and quality, alongside plenty of sparkling wine. Highlights include their Grasshopper redux, layered with crème de menthe, crème de cacao, espresso liqueur, mint cream a

What is it? Kona’s Street Market is more than a cocktail bar: It’s a passport to global flavors, tucked under neon lights in SoMa. Why we love it: Backed by Andy Chun and award-winning bartender-owner Kevin Diedrich of the greatly lauded Pacific Cocktail Haven (P.C.H.), Kona’s is named after Diedrich’s beloved pup and welcomes in a street market–inspired space filled with film posters, vibrant signage and an international menu of cocktails inspired by ingredients from Southeast Asia to the Caribbean. Here, you might sip a pandan- and calamansi-laced classic rarity, a gin-based Boracay Old Fashioned, or the crushable Calpico Cat of Nikka Gin, midori, makrut lime, Calpico and soda water. Cocktails are flavor journeys crafted with precision, playfulness and an open-armed hospitality that reflects Diedrich’s signature style. Their 3–6pm happy hour offers some affordable highballs, spritzes, wine, beer and a couple bar snacks like cup of noodles or flavored corn nuts (otherwise, there is no food). Kona’s quickly earned national acclaim, becoming a 2022 Spirited Awards nominee for Best New U.S. Cocktail Bar in the West. Pull up to the green-tiled bar under a glowing marquee or cozy up with friends along banquettes under twinkling street lights. The bar’s namesake pup, Kona, watches over the scene, his silhouette glowing in neon. Time Out tip: Over December, their Sippin’ Santa tropical Christmas-themed popup cocktail bar is a magical holiday respite they’ve become known for. Addres

Don’t be scared if, on your next hike through Point Reyes, you come across fleece- and wool-cap–clad folks armed with knives and woven baskets wandering about aimlessly and staring at the ground. They’re mushroom hunters; winter’s wet conditions along the North Coast draw them in droves. But before you start popping these organic beauties straight into your mouth, know that it can be tricky, even for an expert, to discern between poisonous and nonpoisonous ’shrooms. (You’ve seen Into the Wild, right?) Plus, most state parks require permits before you can go picking. So, if you’re interested in seeking your own chanterelles, black trumpets, candy caps and yellow feet, the best and safest way is to tag along with the specialists on one of these guided foraging adventures. Bay Area Mycological Society Armed with microscopes and mushroom experts, this society leads foraging events and tours around the Bay Area. Monthly meetings discuss topics like "What are Mushrooms Doing in My Forest?" and "Fungal Fun in New Zealand." Annual membership $10. Fungus Federation of Santa Cruz An informal group since the 1970s and officially a nonprofit since 1984, the Fungus Federation conducts local forays, weeklong trips and workshops through some of the finest mushroom habitats on the West Coast. Members can party with other fungi enthusiasts at the annual Suds ’n ’Shrooms potluck, featuring local home brews, or the Wine and Mushroom Fest with pairings from local winemakers. Serious about mushr

It's impossible to turn your nose up at hotel restaurants in San Francisco. In fact, some of our favorite eateries reside inside downtown's hip high rise lodgings—whether old (Kin Khao inside Parc 55) or new (Charmaine's atop Proper Hotel). Union Square's newest addition, Hotel G, is joining this lofty league with the opening of Ayala with chef Bill Montagne (New York's Le Bernardin and Chicago’s Nico Osteria) and Top Chef alum Melissa Perfit (Bar Crudo) in the kitchen.  Perfit brings her seafood expertise to the 94-seat dining room, which features a standing-room-only, communal raw bar and an oysterette, separated from the main dining room by a glass partition. Navy banquettes, wood tables, a black-and-gray marble bar and custom white-tiled flooring hint at a subtle nautical theme.    Santa Barbara sea urchin at Ayala Photograph: Molly DeCoudreaux   It can be hard to choose between the oysters, crudo, trout rillettes and Santa Barbara sea urchin that are all featured on the menu, but don’t miss the seafood charcuterie plate. This dish consists of four different seafood cuts, all cured and cut thin. The quartet currently includes citrus-doused trout, black cod in kombu (kelp) and Chartreuse, halibut accented with grapefruit and fennel, and paper-thin octopus with preserved lemon. Once you've whet your appetite, move on to entrees like cioppino, Dungeness crab and prawns Louie salad. We loved the salty-and-sweet nori spaghettini, dressed in Dungeness crab, white miso, buddha

Michael Mina boasts an expansive restaurant empire across the United States and Dubai, but his newest venture is all about island vibes. Trailblazer Tavern fuses Hawaiian fare (Mina also has multiple eateries in the state) with San Francisco sensibilities under the helm of Honolulu-based husband-and-wife team Michelle Karr-Ueoka and Wade Ueoka. Housed in the SalesForce East building downtown, the massive, 7,000-square-foot space oozes aloha spirit, including the phrase "E komo mai, e noho mai, e ‘ai a e, wala‘au" (Come in, come sit, eat, and talk) hanging over the doorway. Inside, a lofty dining room and festive bar sport colorful murals of blue waves and green mountains and are lined with palms and greenery. A narrow outdoor patio is strewn with lights, chairs and tables for an urban tropical atmosphere. Photograph: Nicola Parisi The menu centers around classic Hawaiian fare, including a raw bar, land and sea menu sections and a noodles and rice section. Regional favorites like the North Shore-style Kaua’i shrimp coexist alongside universal Hawaiian classics like Spam musubi or old-school fish and poi poke, served in shareable pupu platters and dim-sum–style plates. Modern twists on the classic fare include unagi butterfish arancini, Dungeness crab lumpia and the mochi-crusted monchong fish. And dessert here is no afterthought; The coffee and cream is made with vanilla tapioca, Manulele coffee panna cotta and coffee gelée with Lamill Coffee shaved ice, while the creamsicl

Former Delfina chef Anthony Strong’s first solo project, Prairie, officially opened its doors in the Mission this month, fusing his Italian expertise with Asian-inspired flavors. After 11 years of national acclaim at Delfina, Strong is branching out from his European roots, creating new dishes that are inspired by ingredients from Japan, Korea and China. The meal begins with a checkbox, rather than a traditional menu. Dim-sum enthusiasts will already be familiar with the format: Simply put a check next to the dishes you're interested in and stand it at the end of your table when you're ready to order. It makes for a more seamless dining experience, but staff are always nearby if you have any questions. Photograph: Aubrie Pick   One word of advice when ordering: Don't overlook the starters. The mochi, wrapped in guanciale and served inside a radicchio leaf drizzled in aged balsamic, is a true scene-stealer. As is the pane distrutto, a huge chunk of olive oil-toasted bread soaked in Early Girl farm’s tomato juices. Finally, the "Deluxe” burrata is like a creamy onion dip, but better, so much better.    Gucnciale-wrapped mochi Photograph: Aubrie Pick     Inside the kitchen, you'll find a Josper charcoal grill from Spain and a J&R Woodshow Broiler from Texas, imparting smoke, char and depth to main dishes like marrow bones and grilled octopus and eggplant. Strong is also one of the few in possession of one of Elon Musk’s much buzzed-about new flamethrowers, which you can se

It's the end of an era. SF beer pioneer Dave McLean has officially passed the reigns of both his restaurant-brewery locations to Colorado-based New Belgium Brewing Company and Belgian brewer Oud Beersel. The new Magnolia Dogpatch has been transformed from its Smokestack barbecue days and reopened as a lighter dining room decked out in grey booths, floral wallpaper and 1960s-1970s photos of San Francisco. In the brewery space, picnic tables and TVs showing the Giants and the Niners form an indoor beer garden. Next year, there are plans to open up a 6500-foot event space next door that will also house a koelschip (or coolship), an open fermenter for sour beer production. Chefs Laurance Gordon (Mikkeller, ThirstyBear) and Roque Mendoza (Magnolia Haight) offer a menu with a little something for everyone—including kids, who now have their own coloring book-style menu. Start off with the clams cioppino (clams baked in a cioppino-like sauce with herbed bread crumbs) and the smoky-sweet popcorn before moving onto the mass-appeal entrees—We like the roast chicken with preserved lemon and olives.    Clams cioppino Photograph: Virginia Miller     Considering Magnolia’s history as a pioneer of the English ales and cask beer trends, the new bar wisely keeps Magnolia hits like Kalifornia Kolsch and Proving Ground IPA (with new can packaging) on the menu alongside a long, new list of palate-pleasing beers from porters and pilsners to bock and red ales. Initial standouts include the Cucumb

From June 4–10, Negroni Week honors one of the greatest and most ubiquitous cocktails of all time. Despite the simple ingredients, San Francisco bartenders are skilled at turning the classic drink into something special, often incorporating local aperitifs like St. George's Bruto Americano or Tempus Fugit's Gran Classico. San Francisco celebrates the Negroni in all forms.  During Negroni Week, dozens of the city's best bars will serve their innovative Negroni creations. Try unique interpretations like Bellota's Negroni, made with lavender, lemon and sweet vermouth. Many of the participating bars will also be serving “Red Light” Negronis served in a lightbulb from Bols Genever as a nod to the historic genever producer's home city of Amsterdam. Most importantly, proceeds from Negroni week cocktails raise money for California charities including Muttville and the SF-Marin Food Bank. Participating bars are searchable by city here https://negroniweek.com. Or search for the #NegroniWeek hashtag on Instagram or Twitter.

This week, two new rooftop bars, one in SF and one in downtown Napa, have quietly opened—now all we need are those warm summer nights.    Rooftop25 at Twenty Five Lusk With a striking, three-floor layout in a 1917 brick-timber warehouse, Twenty Five Lusk has always been a draw for chef Matthew Dolan's international cooking (sturgeon schnitzel, anyone?) and a cocktail from drink pioneer Daniel Hyatt, who mans the lounge bar downstairs. Now they're elevating their game with Rooftop 25. Mini-olive trees nestle under a canopy of heat lamps at this west-facing (read: sunset-viewing) deck. It's open daily from 11:30am-8pm, and the team plans to add flat screen TVs soon for game days. A playful menu offers boozy slushies (we love the Spicy Passionfruit Margarita), bottled piña coladas and wood-fired pizzas like the Pizza #2, loaded with bratwurst sausage, fennel, shaved apple and oregano.     Sky & Vine Photograph: Courtesy Archer Hotel     Sky & Vine at the Archer Hotel World has spread quickly about downtown Napa’s only rooftop bar, Sky & Vine at the chic new Archer Hotel. With sweeping views of downtown Napa, cradled by the mountains on either side, this is surely Napa’s new hotspot. There are fire pits, all-day food, a giant Jenga set, red umbrellas, a covered restaurant section and an olive tree surrounded by couches and chairs. While we have yet to try executive chef Jeffrey Russell’s rooftop food, downstairs, Charlie Palmer Steak is a top-notch steakhouse and restaurant. Ra

San Francisco is no stranger to the izakaya, a casual Japanese-style pub for tasty bites and stiff drinks. But the latest wave of izakayas opening in the Bay Area are getting a boost of chic with elevated dishes and Instagram-worthy decor. Here's where we'll be eating this month.  Shinmai Shinmai has been drawing crowds to its modern, minimalist spot in Uptown Oakland. For food, choose between ramen and shared bar bites like fried potato salad smothered in tobiko (fish roe) and truffle aioli and a crudo of ocean trout with piquillo peppers.  Cocktails feature house blends of shochu, Japanese whisky and even mescal mixed with toasted brown rice syrup and yuzu soda.  Bar at Hotel Kabuki Fresh off of major remodeling, Japantown’s Joie de Vivre hotel unveils a sleek new izakaya and cocktail lounge. Head here to sip highballs, tea cocktails and creamy drinks like the Ichigo (rum agricole, lemon, strawberry, Calpico and St. Germain) over braised short-rib wraps and okonomiyaki (savory Japanese pancakes). Tawara Sake Dining This intimate space takes Asian fusion to the next level, serving Korean kimchi and Chinese dumplings alongside Japanese treats like chicken karaage, takoyaki (ball-shaped breaded octopus) and tiger prawn shrimp toast. Don’t miss the fennel-shiso-bacon potato salad, best enjoyed over rounds of sake with friends.

Serpentine This Dogpatch staple has a new chef, Tommy Halvorson (Chez Panisse, Bix, Gary Danko), and a new interior (tons more windows). The restaurant serves vibrant cocktails alongside southern-inspired dishes including a Nashville hot chicken sandwich and tender short ribs over dirty rice with pickled okra and cauliflower. And save room for the tart key lime pudding.  The Front Porch Replete with front porch rocking chairs, buckets of fried chicken, eclectic decor and a friendly staff, The Front Porch oozes Southern charm. Try the house hot sauce, crawfish hush puppies, Dr. Pepper-braised short ribs and the blackened wild Gulf flounder with duck fat roasted potatoes and blue lake beans in a blue crab buerre blanc. Botellon Botellón is an ideal meeting spot for a bite and drink. Chef Nicholas Andoe's Oklahoma roots shine in two of the best bites on the menu: jalapeño chorizo cornbread and house smoked pork ribs in charred scallion BBQ sauce. 

A new round of Italian openings in Berkeley and North Beach have us dreaming of tagliatelle Bolognese and spritzers.  Gio’s Pizza and Bocce Gio’s hit Berkeley last year with pizza, bocce and a vibrant amari selection. Spritzes and cocktails are served in a massive space that can easily hold you and a group of friends on a Friday night. The pizzas and calzones are good, but the real highlight is the boozy desserts (we like the Angostura amaro mousse cake) which all feature amaro and come paired with a glass of the liqueur, too. Pasta Pop-Up From the Il Casaro crew comes the cozy Pasta Pop-Up, where all the pastas are handmade (think red beet spaghetti rosso or tagliatelle Bolognese), the wines are authentic Italian and nothing on the menu is priced over $15. Italian Homemade Company Italian Homemade Company continues to expand with a second location on the Marina and a new spot in Berkeley’s Elmwood ‘hood. Here you can fill up on stellar lasagnas, piadina sandwiches, Italian groceries and handmade pastas to-go. 

These are the latest, mouth-watering pastries worth gaining weight for. Our "Just Try It" croissant. Overloaded with house-made pastrami, manchego cheese, and pickled onions. Sprinkled with pumpkin and fennel seeds, topped with another layer of (crispy) manchego cheese. #cantstopwontstop⠀ P H O T O : @stefvicto A post shared by Mr Holmes Bakehouse (@mrholmesbakehouse) on Feb 9, 2018 at 5:37pm PST Mr. Holmes Bakehouse There's a new pastry lineup at Mr. Holmes Bakehouse (the bakery that made the cruffin famous in 2014). The menu is a collaboration between pastry chef Brittany Dunn at the SF location and Mr. Holmes pastry chefs from their eight other locations, including L.A. and Korea. It’s hard to resist the killer garlic sunchoke danish or the banana almond chai danis, but the piece de resistance is the “Just Try It” croissant oozing with housemade pastrami, pickled onions and oranges, Manchego cheese and a dusting of pumpkin and fennel seeds. Yum.  Will you be mine? 🥐♥️ #happyvalentinesday caramelized hazelnut raspberry twice-baked #croissant A post shared by 2343 3rd St. Suite 100, SF (@neighborbakehouse) on Feb 14, 2018 at 9:47am PST Neighbor Bakehouse Love the pistachio blackberry twice-baked croissants at Sightglass? You have Neighbor Bakehouse to thank. Their new spring menu is loaded with seasonal pies like the strawberry nectarine with oatmeal crumble and savory pastries like the curry potato turnovers, ham and cheese morning buns an the "everything”

Here are the four standout dishes we're craving this month. Happy eating.    Commonwealth’s dashi & beef A meal at Michelin-starred Commonwealth is one of the best dining experiences in the city. There’s plenty that wows on the current menu, but the powerhouse pairing is two bites of raw, shaved American wagyu beef swimming in shiitake dashi and shrimp oil with Japanese ginger. SPQR’s chestnut gnocchi SPQR has long been one of the city's great Italian restaurants, thanks to chef Matthew Accarrino and James Beard award–winning wine director Shelley Lindgren. SPQR’s pasta tasting menus are worth splurging on but any Accarrino pasta will do, especially one as comforting as the chestnut gnocchi in a poultry sugo (made with guinea hen, turkey and chicken), laden with pancetta, charred radicchio and piave cheese. Trick Dog’s chicken Trick Nuggets While the crowds may flock to Trick Dog for the cocktails—and the new Trick Dog airline-themed cocktail menu is another great one—their food is no joke, whether you order the irresistible Trick Dog (a burger in a sesame dog bun) or vegetarian Frito pie. But it’s the silky-good chicken Trick Nuggets with a trio of sauces (sweet & sour, bacon ranch and smoky BBQ) that has our attention this month. They taste like childhood gone gourmet. Nomica’s miso black cod From the crew behind legendary Japanese restaurant Sushi Ran in Sausalito, Nomica serves a menu laden with iconic dishes (the whole chicken in brioche and the karaage chicken with J