San Francisco

We found it to be one of the best symphonies for the senses we’ve enjoyed in a long time. — Gayot

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

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

This prix fixe restaurant is worth the splurge — Time Out

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

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

A perfect special-occasion restaurant, this hidden gem offers the city’s most delicious, refined contemporary Italian fare. — Frommer's

Turning 98 years old in 2010, Swan Oyster Depot is a classic San Francisco dining experience you shouldn't miss. — Frommer'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

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

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

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

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

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

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

With roots in agriculture, Bar Agricole (Farm Bar) is a contemporary tavern serving ingredient-driven dishes, excellent wines and some of the best artisan cocktails around — Where

Michael Mina, who became a celebrity chef while overseeing Aqua and was Bon Appétit Chef of the Year in 2006, takes the small-plate dining concept to extremes at this sexy, swank spot. — Frommer's

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

Chef-owner Val M. Cantu presents a multi-course tasting of Mexican fare in the Mission district. — Gayot