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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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