Mister Jiu’s, Al’s Place, Commis, Now on The Resy Hit List
2/Al’s Place
3/Commis
4/The Progress
5/Izakaya Rintaro
6/Petit Crenn
7/Manresa
8/Penrose
9/Ramen Shop
10/Hog Island
Because grab a seat around the lazy Susan, SF is all about banquet-style dining. Five-courses of Chef Brandon Jiu’s ode to Chinatown with a Cali-nod. Think sizzling rice soup with a rock shrimp upgrade or Dungeness crab peanut noodles FTW. Pro-tip: Grab a drink at the bar, happiness equals a gin and jasmine cocktail. // Chinatown. (415) 857-9688.
Because hold the presses, burrata just hit the menu. It’s al fresco season people and Al knows how to throw a garden party, AKA there’s a new heated outdoor area dedicated to walk-ins. P.S. the local Dungeness crab is back. #bringyourbib // Mission. (415) 416-6136.
3/Commis
Because there are so many choices in a day, but only one to make tonight. Ahead of the Oakland scene since ’09, Chef Syhabout rolls out an eight-course tasting menu that boasts two Michelin stars. Expect the unexpected and a wine list to end all wine lists. // Oakland. Book Now at Commis.
4/The Progress
Because the hunt for the city’s perfect michelada is over. Banquet-style farm fresh is the idea with a killer wine list and cocktail program for the full enchilada. Plus, check out The Workshop, a private dining space nestled upstairs between State Bird and The Progress with events open to the public. // Western Addition. (415) 673-1294.
5/Izakaya Rintaro
Because Chef Sylvan Brackett nails breakfast for dinner. The off-menu dashimaki tamago or Japanese omelet is made in a copper tamagoyaki pan with golden yolk Kaki farm eggs. Start with a scramble, end with the foot-made udon. You read that right. Stay tuned for the Behind the Line. // Mission. Book Now at Izakaya Rintaro.
6/Petit Crenn
Because two Michelin stars and an episode on Chef’s Table is major for any chef. The Hayes Valley go-to restaurant is a playful nod to her French upbringing with casual vibes. Parisienne gnocchi case in point. The menu rotates daily so pull up a seat at the Chef’s Counter for the real deal. // Hayes Valley. Book Now at Petit Crenn.
7/Manresa
Because an Emmy for Chef David Kinch’s Mind of a Chef episode only solidifies the South Bay’s culinary jewel. Reborn from the ashes and with a sister bakery across the street, the Silicon Valley restaurant is worth the commute. Don’t forget a vanilla caramel for the ride home… or a fist full. // Los Gatos. (408) 354-4330.
8/Penrose
Because the third restaurant from Oakland powerhouse Charlie Hallowell (Pizzaiolo, Boot & Shoe Service) is aces. Spice-forward and an ample cocktail selection, Piedmont avenue is looking sexy AF. Pro tip: Oysters and martinis make you happy. Straight up or on the rocks. // Oakland. (510) 444-1649.
9/Ramen Shop
Because mix Chez Panisse with Japanese cuisine and you get a line around the block. The fried rice is always on point, but the main attraction is the ramen. In-house noodles deliver a bite and the rich broth packs the flavor. By the end of the bowl, you’ll say kaedama. // Oakland. (510) 788-6370.
10/Hog Island
Because while the sun’s out, book a picnic table on the coast and get the grill hot. Haven’t tried barbecued oysters? You’re in for a treat. Hog Island offers a chipotle bourbon butter to take it to the next level. Or keep it simple with a squeeze of lemon. Slurps up. // Marshall. (415) 663-9218.