Nightbird's tasting menu is full of gems like the meatloaf tartare or the ridiculously good mashed and fried potatoes with black truffles, but it's the off-menu beef fat waffle that keeps us coming back for more. Each waffle “pocket” is filled with eggy creams and California osetra caviar for the most decadent breakfast-inspired dish of your life.
Smoked brisket tots at The Den at Wes Burger ‘N More
The new late night menu (available Friday and Saturday from 10:30pm to 3am) at The Den (the tiny bar next door to Wes Burger N’ More) includes a superb new version of Wes Rowe's famous tots, smothered in smoked brisket, pico de gallo, jalapeños, queso and goat cheese.
Photograph: Virginia Miller
Arctic char in persimmon curry at DOSA
Since opening the original DOSA in 2005, married couple Anjan and Emily Mitra have helped to popularize South Indian cuisine in SF. At chic DOSA on Fillmore, new chef Arun Gupta brings a fresh perspective and new dishes to the menu, including a silky smoked arctic char in persimmon curry over coconut rice that's absolutely delicious.
SF’s dreamy new rooftop bar atop Proper Hotel serves quality bar food to soak up all those craft cocktails. Their juicy hot dog comes with a kick courtesy of Bavarian mustard and fermented lettuce, all cradled in a soft milk and honey bun.
Photograph: Virginia Miller
Roasted carrots at The Brass Rabbit
This Healdsburg newcomer's best dishes are often the unexpected ones. Take for example this side of roasted carrots accented with hazelnuts, anise and mint—it's simple, but our favorite dish on the menu.