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 Great new & antique bike store |
510 Frederick St (at the corner of Stanyan Street) San Francisco, CA 94117 United States +1 415 876 4507 http://www.americancyclery.com/ |
This Haight District shop showcases Americana as represented by the bicycle, and it repeatedly gets voted best bike shop in The City by local publications. The store specializes in antique bicycles that date back as far as the early 1900s. A 1915 Master Bicycle from Sears, restored to its original condition, is an example of the finds that make its way through the shop. It collects and restores vintage balloon tires, roadsters, three speeds and classic-lightweights. The bicycles for sale also include a collection of Schwinn reproduction balloon tire bikes and parts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mike Jones |
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Gourmet market |
1200 Irving St (between Funston and 14th avenues) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 753 0403 http://www.andronicos.com/ customerservice@andronicos.com |
This large, upscale Sunset market has a lot to offer. Clean, pleasant, and filled with gourmet groceries. You will find everything you could possibly need including health, organic and bulk foods, beer and spirits. Why cook when this market offers a deli and rotisserie counter filled with fresh pastas, salad, side dishes, and healthy meat dishes? The seafood is also extensive with shellfish, fresh and saltwater fishes. One of the largest collection of microbrews in The City is an added plus. Although it is more expensive than traditional grocery stores, you get higher quality goods. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rick Audet  |
 Killer Kung Pao |
1358 9th Avenue (between Irving and Judah streets) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 661 1803 |
Noted for its Kung Pao specialties and extensive take-out menu, this place serves gargantuan portions of Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine. The dining area is spacious and comfortable. Several people can sit at the large circular tables, making this venue an excellent choice for a group luncheon or large family gathering. The waitstaff is attentive and friendly, and service is quick and thorough. With more than 200 items on the menu, 35 seafood dishes alone, you are bound to find a Chinese dish you have never tried before. There is a nice selection of vegetarian items and you can request to have your food cooked without oil. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Arizmendi Bakery Cooperative |
1331 9th Avenue (between Irving Street & Judah Street) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 566 3117 http://www.arizmendibakery.org/ info@arizmendibakery.com |
This Inner Sunset neighborhood co-op, affiliated with Berkeley's Cheese Board, just may ruin you for any other bakery. They bake a wide range of breads, with a whole list of specials every day (grab a loaf of the Irish Soda Bread on Tuesdays). They turn out specialty scones and muffins all baked with tender loving care. Their cookies are at once familiar and surprisingly new (try Auntie Mabel's Cookie Brittle or the moist and crumbly Apricot-Almond). Kids love the crispy/cheesy bread sticks. If it's more than just a snack you're looking for, join the throngs filing in from the far reaches of the city for a slice or four of Arizmendi's famous pizza. They top each one with the freshest of locally raised veggies and the creamiest of specialty cheeses. Eat yours at one of two tables inside, on the benches out front, or in Golden Gate Park just a block away. See website for complete list of weekly bread, scone, muffin and cookie specials, as well as a mission statement and a comprehensive pizza calendar. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: AXO |
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Cheap good eats |
747 Irving Street (between Eighth and Ninth avenues) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 665 7440 |
Also known since the 40s as Art's Fine Foods, this tiny counter-service place serves honest food at honest prices and always with a smile. The decor has not changed much since it opened, though the formica counter has been jazzed up with postcards from far and near. The path worn in the floor paint attests to the loyal local following. A breakfast of two eggs, two pancakes, two slices of bacon or sausage is less than $5. Omelettes of all kinds are $5 or less and so are the sandwiches and burgers. Tangy and tasty Korean BBQ is a recent and popular addition to the menu. Only cash is accepted. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alexander |
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Above the fray |
900 Stanyan Street San Francisco, CA 94117 United States +1 415 665 5333 |
Two floors of delicious dining await you at this tastefully restored Victorian eatery. Dark wood and bright lace curtains for the backdrop for elegant dining with such meticulously prepared dishes as 'Kaeng Phed Ped Yang', a succulent curried roast duck coated with aromatic spices and stuffed with tomatoes and pineapple and gingered prawns simmered in a clay pot. Other selections include flavorful noodle dishes and a nice array of curries in different styles and intensities as well as piquant satays. The service for the local fans of Thai food is gracious and unobtrusive. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Jazz by the sea |
1000 Great Highway (between Lincoln and Fulton avenues) San Francisco, CA 94121 United States +1 415 386 8439 http://www.beachchalet.com lara@beachchalet.com |
With its lovely ocean view, mellow atmosphere, and smooth live jazz, this is a great escape from the chaos of The City. Enjoy seafood, melodies, and the unusual late night happy hour, from 10p to closing, beside the magnificent Pacific Coast. Appetizers are mainly of the fried variety: onion rings, calamari, quesadillas and the like. Chicken, meat and fish dishes are all available as entree choices. There is no cover for entertainment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: J. Tony Goulding (www.flickr.com/photos/welshbalon |
 Photo: Mary Mactavish |
 Photo: David Neubert (davidneubert.com) |
 Photo: M. DeBussy |
 Photo: Brian Brantner |
 Photo: Eileen Flanagan |
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Authentic and stylish |
1030 Irving St (between 11th and 12th avenues) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 731 8110 |
This is a stylish little spot for a great authentic Beijing-style meal prepared with meticulous care and served up by a friendly staff. The decor is casual with pale walls and gleaming silverware on the tables. Peking Duck is the star and you must place your order 24 hours in advance to enjoy the crispy, succulent version served up here. Other menu highlights include braised noodle dishes with a good selection of toppings and hearty beef and lamb dishes done in a variety of ways. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fresh Taste in the Sunset |
1224 9th Avenue San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 753 3919 http://www.bistro9sf.com/ |
Amidst the sports bars and Irish pubs of the Sunset District lies Bistro 9: a fresh look, feel and flavor for the area. Choose to sit outside on the patio, or enjoy the peaceful and decorative ambiance of the interior. Bistro 9 is known for its rotisserie chicken and beef, so be sure to order them yourself and see what everyone else is raving about. They offer great service and very reasonable prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Irish breakfast spot |
654 Irving Street (at the corner of Eighth Avenue) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 665 3633 |
This popular cafe serves breakfast all day long and does so with quick and friendly service. Although it is open for lunch and dinner, many come here for the cheap breakfasts and Sunday brunch. The long, narrow interior consists of several small tables set against a window, and a substantial bar lined with wooden stools. Plastic chairs and tables are scattered outside on the sidewalk. A traditional Irish breakfast is the house specialty. The daily breakfast special for right around $5 includes two eggs, two pieces of bacon or sausage, and a choice of French toast or banana or blueberry pancakes. For the lunch-minded, the menu features an impressive selection of burgers and sandwiches. Note: Cash only. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Santeria & great sangria |
1801 Haight St at Shrader San Francisco, CA 94117 United States +1 415 386 7670 http://www.cha3.com hoconnor@mac.com |
Do not be discouraged when the host announces it will be an hour for a table. It is worth the wait. Besides, after one pitcher of intense sangria, you will not even feel the time passing. Authentic Santeria altars and strange artifacts adorn the walls. World music transports you to a foreign land. The Calamari with Garlic Aioli, Spicy Roasted Potatoes, and Grilled Plantains are highly recommended. There is another location at 2327 Mission St. Check website for full details including menu items. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: gazorama |
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Inexpensive Mexican food |
1805 Haight Street San Francisco, CA 94117-2711 United States +1 415 751 6204 |
In the middle of the bustle of Haight Street, this no-frills, yet cozy restaurant draws large crowds of diners leaving only standing room most days of the week. Burritos and tacos and the house specialty come with a choice of beans, rice, and meat. In addition to the tasty traditional Mexican fare, the restaurant also offers a special vegetarian menu that features a tofu burrito and vegetarian nachos. The service is friendly and quick. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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International noodles |
1790 Haight Street (at the corner of Shrader Street) San Francisco, CA 94117-2808 United States +1 415 387 6366 |
Step off Haight Street into this soothing low-lit cafe/bar. Beer, microbrews and a great selection of sakes offer thirst quenching. Hunger, on the other hand, will be more than satisfied by the wide range of noodle dishes. Generous portions of recipes from all over the Asian continent give you more than enough sustenance to brave the Haight again when your meal is through. As the name implies, many dishes here are seasoned with citrus to enhance the spicy flavors. Favorite dishes include Coconut chicken with spicy lemon, and noodles with garlic and shiitake mushrooms. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevin Cheng |
 Photo: kawkawpa |
 Photo: randy stewart |
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Creative crepes & sandwiches |
624 Irving Street (between Seventh and Eighth avenues) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 681 5858 http://www.thecrepevine.com/ info@thecrepevine.com |
The appealing combination of fresh ingredients, hefty portions, and inexpensive prices fill this crepery/coffee house for lunch daily and brunch on Sunday. The wood-paneled walls and heavy wood tables create a dark atmosphere inside. For those who prefer more light, several tables are set up outside on the sidewalk. Names like the Bombay, Santa Fe, and Tuscany make it difficult to choose just one item. Both savory and sweet crepes (including ones with pears and chocolate with ice cream) are served, as well as sandwiches and omelettes. Note: Cash only. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bryce Glass |
 Photo: Betty |
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Every kind of noodle imaginable! |
1525 Irving Street San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 661 2434 |
The food here is best described as Oriental fusion, with Japanese, Thai, and Chinese influences. Appetizers include Sashimi, Egg rolls, Tempura, and Larb and main dishes are a mixed bag as well. Great for a group with diverse tastes! The interior is small and cozy, with ample light from the windows facing the street. The 26 noodle soups (a huge bowl, served with a salad) include Udon, Ramen, Gyoza, Vermicelli or Rice Noodles served with every kind of meat and vegetable combination imaginable. Thai pan-fried rice noodle dishes make up a substantial portion of the menu, and entrees include several types of curry. The menu features a nice selection of vegetarian dishes. Sushi offerings are slim but very inexpensive. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Personalized sushi |
1283 Ninth Avenue Golden Gate Park San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 566 1770 http://www.ebisusushi.com/ info@ebisusushi.com |
The sushi here is really a delight; fresh and impeccably assembled, with perfect rice. But what sets this sushi bar apart from the scores of others in town is that each chef assembles for just the few patrons sitting in front of him. A full Japanese menu is also available. Because it lies at the crucible of the Inner Sunset's parking inferno, leave plenty of extra time or just take a cab. Reservations are advised, but even so, the wait can be long once you are there. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Frank Farm |
 Photo: charlotte vaughn |
 Photo: Stefan Berreth |
 Sandwiches and salads, low prices |
1336 Ninth Avenue (Between Irving and Judah Streets) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 665 4840 http://www.mistersf.com/joints... |
What a concept! This funky cafe serves sandwiches on fresh bread, enormous crunchy salads and homemade soups all for less than $10! The sandwich-salad stop is run by a local nonprofit for inner city youth, and is definitely a "people's choice" sort of place. Give it a try for lunch or dinner. You will get great food, great service, and be doing a good deed, too. Note: Cash only. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hipster Friendly |
603 Irving Street San Francisco, CA 94131 United States +1 415 731 6433 |
Located in the Sunset District, Fireside attracts a lot of young locals and UC San Francisco students. It's funky decor and stylish lighting are tempered by the cozy gas fireplace. While weekends can get crowded - wiggling and writhing your way to the bar kind of crowded - the place is usually quite comfortable. Fireside's a great place for after work and locals agree, it's a good place to bring a date. Note: cash only. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Intimate Japanese dining |
1524 Irving Street San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 664 2288 |
The head chef, Gan Iwao Ishikawa, studied under renowned Japanese chef Yoshi. Eat in the traditional Japanese Tatami style, kneeling on the floor. For the less flexible, traditional tables and chairs are available, too, in the ornate dining room. The menu is extensive. Hand-rolled sushi is the specialty and is enjoyed with gusto by the regular, neighborhood clientele. Other dinner entrees include tempura, fish, and beef all priced between $12-25. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Succulent Korean BBQ |
535 Irving St (between Sixth and Seventh avenues) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 731 3721 |
The delectable aroma of succulent barbeque draws you into this eatery in the Inner Sunset. Ingredients are fresh, prices are reasonable, and the staff is perky and helpful. The dining area is small but pleasant. New wood tables and chairs are spaced so diners aren't cramped and have ample legroom. The numerous barbeque dishes, kabobs, combo plates and smoked meats are truly a carnivorous delight! Traditional Korean dishes like Bibimpap (a mixture of several meats, vegetables and fried egg) and Chopchae (veggies, meat and noodles) are also served. Tofu-based entrees are available for vegetarians. For a lighter meal, the menu features tempura, udon, and sandwiches. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Frank Farm |
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Great specials |
1500 Irving Street (at the corner of 17th Avenue) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 566 1696 |
Head out to this restaurant for fresh and affordable Japanese food. Find a simple dining room and a far from simple buffet table at this neighborhood hot spot. Come for sushi a la carte and tempura, teriyaki, udon entrees plus hamburgers and chicken sandwiches. A sushi buffet is available every night. Popular with the locals, it's where you can stuff yourself with all the appetizers, sushi, soup and salad you can hold. Another great special is the men and women's nights - on Mondays men get 15 percent off the buffet and 50 percent off alcohol. On Tuesdays, it is the ladies' turn. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Bright and tasty |
2146 Irving Street San Francisco, CA 94122-1610 United States +1 415 681 2326 |
Though the space is tiny, the owners of this popular spot have made the dining area sparkle with bright paint and cheery service. The sandwiches are the traditional Vietnamese-style baguettes hollowed out and stuffed with rich and hearty fillings of barbecued beef, spicy chicken or pork. If you are not in the mood for a full meal, opt for a refreshing glass of sweet Vietnamese coffee flavored with aromatic spices and mixed with condensed milk as you peruse the paper. Locals crowd at peak hours, including first thing in the morning for a fast pastry and coffee to go. Only cash is accepted. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Seaside coffee |
1396 La Playa Street San Francisco, CA 94122-1019 United States +1 415 665 5282 |
Less boisterous than the nearby Beach Chalet and more low-key than the Cliff House halfway up a hill to the north, this is a snug place to sip some java and warm up after a stroll on always windy, usually chilly Ocean Beach. The decor has an appropriately nautical air, perfect for the avid surfers who make this their post-ride hangout. The food, served up by personable types who seem to be surfers themselves when off duty, is the usual mix of sandwiches, soups and pastries, all tasty, none expensive. It's a great place take a break and enjoy the view of a horizon that goes on forever. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marina Ivanova |
 Photo: Anna L. Conti |
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Hookah & Dine |
1793 Haight Street San Francisco, CA 94117 United States +1 415 751 9656 |
The romantic atmosphere, the scent of flavored tobacco, and the Middle Eastern decor will win you over upon entering this charming restaurant/hookah bar. Stop in with friends for a drink and unwind with some hookah. For lunch or dinner, sit back and relax on plush pillows, and enjoy the occasional belly dancers as they lure you into the international vibe and music. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cheap food plus a big TV |
511 Irving St (between Sixth and Seventh avenues) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 681 1246 |
This Mexican eatery boasts a sophisticated dining area, a wine bar and a huge flat screen TV. During lunchtime, it is common to see a line spilling out onto the sidewalk, but the cooks are quick, so the wait is minimal. All food is free of lard and preservatives. Several types of salsa, from mild to fiery hot, are prepared fresh daily. The gargantuan burritos come with a choice of beans and a variety of tortillas. Try the dinner plates, with rice, beans, tortillas, and a choice of two items. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Oldest Thai in the Sunset |
524 Irving Street San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 759 9644 |
This sunset classic is a constant winner for great traditional Thai cuisine. The dining room is small but bright and the waitstaff are very gracious. Local lunch favorites include the Pad Thai (pan-fried noodles with shrimp, tofu, egg, bean sprouts and peanuts. Try vegetarian dishes like Kao Rad Gang Pak (red curry vegetables over rice). For dinner, house specialties include the Pladoog Dern Toong (deep-fried catfish with special sauce and basil leaves. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Voted the best Thai |
2225 Irving Street San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 665 9500 http://www.marneethaisf.com/ marneethai@gmail.com |
Three major newspapers and Zagat's Survey have all repeatedly ranked this restaurant as the best Thai food in The City. Find out for yourself. The decor is simple and tasteful and the service is personable and efficient. A few prints of Thailand and colorful tapestries cover the walls. The muted elegance makes this the perfect place for an intimate dinner. The restaurant serves the traditional Thai favorites. Menu items include a calmari salad and Panang Beef. If you are in the mood to share, order one of the large bowls of steaming soup. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: etrepum |
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Casual North Indian |
1220 Ninth Avenue (at the corner of Lincoln Way) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 566 6976 http://www.masalasf.com/ info@maharanirestaurant.com |
This popular spot has developed a regular and enthusiastic clientele. The North Indian cuisine is tastefully prepared, service is prompt and friendly, and the kheer is heavenly. The delectable aroma of tandoori cooking permeates the air. The simple, bright indoor dining area is designed for quiet conversation. On a warm day, ask to be seated in the pleasant outdoor patio. The menu features several seafood dishes, a mouth-watering selection of tandoori breads, and specialties like Kasmiri Biryani (cooked with fruit and nuts). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Neil Babra |
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Casual African |
907 Irving Street San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 681 1288 |
Treat your tongue to new taste experiences. A friendly atmosphere, excellent service, a full bar and a weekday all-you-can-eat lunch buffets are added plusses. This place offers a casual atmosphere and family-style service, which makes it a fun choice for a group of friends, but less desirable for a romantic date. The interior is cozy and comfortable with touches of Eritrean art and artifacts decorating the walls. Specializing in Eritrean and Ethiopian dishes, this Sunset restaurant and bar serves lots of tender meat delicacies seasoned with Eritrean spices and fresh vegetables with flat bread on the side. Menu items include Zigni (beef squares cooked in spices) and Kantisha (mushrooms sauteed in tomato sauce and spices). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Creative comfortable Indian vegetarian |
775 Frederick Street San Francisco, CA 94117 United States +1 415 681 4355 |
This may very well be the only Indian restaurant in town that a native Indian or Pakistani would readily and often spend their money at. You might feel like you are at home here, if your home were in Delhi or Benares, a feeling heightened by the attentive and mothering attention of the delightfully pleasant owner/waiter Aftab. New Ganges has won many culinary awards, and they even keep a book of dozens of letter from happy customers. Aftab will sometimes literally spoon-feed his customers, and he puts a full money-back guarantee on everything he serves. Can you think of any other restaurant that doesn't have a freezer? Well, New Ganges doesn't, and the freshness of the ingredients really comes through. Aftab and his wife Farah put their hearts fully into what they are doing, and it shows in the quality of service and food. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Decadent Cajun-style seafood |
737 Irving Street (at the corner Ninth Avenue) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 566 7775 http://www.pjsoysterbed.com/ pj@pjsoysterbed.com |
Homestyle Creole food and lots of it, is what this neighborhood favorite promises. And does it ever deliver! Diners can feast on such delectable choices as Oysters Rockefeller, Cajun-style Gulf Prawns and pounds of crawfish (in season). It is rare that you leave here without a box of leftovers. The noise factor here should be considered becuase it sounds more like a house party than like a casually chic restaurant. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christina B Castro |
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Fun Food |
1000 Great Highway, Ocean Beach San Francisco, CA 94121 United States +1 415 386 8439 www.parkchalet.com lara@beachchalet.com |
The Park Chalet Garden Restaurant is located in San Francisco's world famous Golden Gate Park. The menu offers flatbread pizzas and barbecue specialties with a great wine list and colorful cocktails. A stone fire place, stained concrete floors, sleek wooden chairs and a sophisticated bar design give the place a charm of its own. Take a sip on the Crab Martini, which is served in a martini glass with crab mounded like snowflakes and paired with avocado and mango, all on a cool bed of lettuce. Have a pizza or a hamburger with your cocktail and enjoy your food. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Graham Jenkin |
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Stroll from Golden Gate Park |
1238 9th Avenue San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 665 9912 |
A spin-off of Chow on Market Street, this second edition favorite draws in a steady, youthful crowd. It could be due to the prime location just steps away from Golden Gate Park. The weekend brunch on the heated patio is a great answer to those sunny, yet chilly, San Francisco days. The atmosphere throughout is homey yet funky with a fireplace and Hershey's can silverware holders. The menu is filled with all sorts of treats like freshly blended juices and smoothies, standard issue but delicious soups and sandwiches, pasta and pizza and meat and potatoes. The service is quick and friendly. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ealasaid A. Haas |
 Photo: _lmc |
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Going Greek! |
1201 9th Avenue At Lincoln Way (Inner Sunset) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 731 0400 |
This eatery, located right next to the Golden Gate Park, is a typical neighborhood joint that serves up some great Greek and Mediterranean fare. Everything from salads, soups, wraps and kebabs is on offer here. You can dig into the authentic Greek Mousaka or then try out the various kebabs served with salad, rice and pita bread. The Salmon Wrap is a delight for fish lovers. So if you're craving for something delectable minus all those cheesy calories, a meal at Park Gyros would be a great choice. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Traditional Italian & Pizza |
700 Irving Street (at the corner of Eighth Avenue) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 661 2140 |
It's fun just to stand on the corner and watch the cooks toss pizza dough behind the wrap-around windows. This family-style restaurant is a great choice for a late night meal or pizza. The dining area is roomy and comfortable, with many large tables appropriate for group seating. Checkered red and white tablecloths lend the traditional Italian feel. Pizza is the specialty, with more than 40 tasty combinations to choose from. The prices are reasonable, too. The extra-large 18" pizzas range from $13-19. A decent selection of pastas and traditional Italian entrees is also offered. Service is quick and the waiters are friendly and cheerful. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John |
 Photo: John |
 Photo: Jennifer S Clark |
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A cut above |
1770 Haight Street San Francisco, CA 94117 United States +1 415 387 9224 |
A short flight of stairs in a refurbished Victorian leads to this tiny gem. The decor is airy and bright with pale walls and lace curtains, reinforcing the old-fashioned ambiance. There are a few spicy-hot items on the menu, but the majority of the items are mild with coconut or citrus as the base of the piquant flavor blend. The Haight Street locals dig into succulent gingered chicken served by a cheerful wait staff. There is a nice selection of noodle and rice dishes that can be prepared with chicken, fish, beef or veggies, each flavorful and served in large portions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: lisabette. |
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Eastern fusion |
1031 Irving Street San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 242 0828 |
The dumplings here are bursting with pork, chicken, beef or vegetable fillings that are dense with flavor. The favorite noodle dishes combine a rich black bean sauce topped with either seafood, beef, chicken or veggies for a hearty and delicious meal. There are also a few Korean dishes on the menu and one of the favorites combines beef with a tangy-sweet-hot barbecue sauce. Refreshing Chinese and Korean beers are an excellent accompaniment. The service for the local crowds who pack this place is quick and friendly. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Yutai |
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Delightful to a Tea |
721 Lincoln Way San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 566 8834 http://www.secretgardenteahous... sgtea@comcast.net |
Go back in time to a place where high tea was a social device, a comforting tradition, and always a full-scale production. Located a stone's throw from Golden Gate park, between 8th and 9th Avenue, The Secret Garden Tea House and gift shop does not scrimp on all the frills and touches necessary to make its customers feel like they are living in a Jane Austen novel. In addition to a light lunch menu, the tea house serves bite-sized sandwiches, pastries, and of course, a selection of teas. The tea room is available to rent for parties and events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Chinese Vegetarian |
2026 Irving Street San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 731 2548 http://shangri-la.wp.net/ |
This restaurant offers a wide array of Chinese dishes that are Vegetarian and Vegan friendly. Some entrees do include egg, so be sure to ask. The food is good and the atmosphere is pretty typical for a Chinese place in San Francisco - friendly and cozy, but the real selling point here is the cost. The lunch special includes a main dish, soup and rice for only $4.50. The dinner options are equally affordable and make Shangri-La a great, affordable choice for everyone. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tasty Thai |
1319 Ninth Avenue San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 564 7722 |
When locals want inventive and delicious Thai cuisine, they turn to this neighborhood favorite. It serves dishes rich with flavor. Order several entrees with friends and get a bite of each. The menu is vast, full of meat, seafood, noodle, and vegetarian dishes. House favorites include Pan-Fried Butterfly Prawns stuffed with crabmeat, marinated in garlic and pepper and rolled in batter, Spicy Salmon Curry, and Clay Pot Seafood Curry. The Thai noodles are very popular. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Late night luscious |
641 Irving Street (between Seventh and Eighth avenues) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 504 7068 |
There are two locations for this purveyor of yummy baked goods. The original Irving Street location is techno-mellow with exposed pipes and fans hanging from a very high ceiling. Posters of classic film stars share the stippled and half-paneled walls with paintings by local artists. The second location on Geary is a scooch, more sophisticated in decor with slightly less seating, which sometimes means the occasional hint to vacate your table if you have lingered too long. Scones, muffins, cookies, and cakes are priced from $2 to $5, including the signature Lemon Tart (with just the right citrus tang to balance the sweetness). Half sandwiches are also available for less than $5. You can also get a nostalgically classic root beer float. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Spicy and authentic Thai cuisine |
2123 Irving Street San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 753 3347 www.thaispiceonpolk.citysearch... wxw18@yahoo.com |
With a California twist resulting in cuisine that is anything but bland, menu items here are spicy and tasty, but can be prepared more mildly for the less daring. The cozy dining area is Asian-inspired with Thai knick-knacks adorning the walls. Lunch draws those who work in the neighborhood for the daily specials. Dinner is a crowd of young urban professionals and older couples from all over The City. The dishes include traditional Thai dishes such as Pad Thai Noodles combined with a little spice as well as prawns, scallops, and asparagus in a spicy curry paste and chicken with peanut sauce on a bed of spinach. The service is great. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Award-winning Vietnamese seafood |
4101 Judah Street (at the corner of 47th Avenue) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 665 1146 |
Hordes of people travel out to the end of the Avenues to enjoy top-notch Vietnamese-fusion cuisine for reasonable prices, so make your reservations early. This restaurant is run by the same family who own Crustacean (L.A. and S.F.) and features the same delectable menu. Of course, no visit is complete without sampling the famous Roast Crab or the garlic-infused noodles. Bartender Graham, a Thanh Long institution, is a master of his art and the drinks show it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ken Quan |
 Photo: butanet |
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Family-run Italian |
731 Irving Street (between Eighth and Ninth avenues) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 731 2280 / +1 415 731 2281 http://www.villaromanasf.com/ tony@villaromanasf.com |
Open since 1953, this family-owned restaurant serves traditional Italian food with a smile. This is a booth-lovers dream spot. The red vinyl cushions are thick and comfortable. The interior is spacious and the muted lighting creates a romantic atmosphere. While there are no surprises or racy combinations on the menu, the food is tastefully prepared and well seasoned. The ravioli with pesto is delicious and not too rich, and there is a nice selection of veal and shellfish. The waiters provide an endless supply of fresh bread with minced garlic in olive oil for dipping. Additionally, a full pizza menu is offered. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A taste of Boston in San Francisco |
503 Irving Street (at the corner of Sixth Avenue) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 681 5652 |
In a city that seems to specialize in food from faraway countries, a simple sandwich can seem somewhat elusive. But no more. This tiny but popular spot serves submarine sandwiches Boston-style. You can create your own sandwich or choose one of the freshly prepared house specialties, such as the Italian Sausage submarine. Most sandwiches cost between $5 and $8. You will also find chips and soda to go with your sub, and a quick and friendly counter staff. Only cash is accepted. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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No fresher in The City |
2181 Irving Street San Francisco, CA 94122-1609 United States +1 415 566 6433 |
There may be fresher sushi to be found in The City, but this unpretentious sushi bar started life as a fish market and still does a thriving business in that department, so you can draw you own conclusions. The sushi is expertly made and includes all the standard offerings such as Cucumber, Yellow Tail and Tuna Rolls. There are not many American adaptations, but you will find the ubiquitous California Roll and another one with Soft-Shell cCab Tempura. The service is quick and polite and the air not as fishy-smelling as might be expected. In fact, it is not unpleasant at all. There can be a wait for one of the tidy little tables during peak dining hours because this place is so popular with the locals. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: kwei |
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Delicious and aromatic |
721 Irving Street (between Eighth and Ninth avenues) San Francisco, CA 94122 United States +1 415 682 0762 |
The owners have made the most of this storefront eatery in the Sunset, installing sleek counter seating around the walls and painting every inch, inside and out, in the vivid shades of blue that you would see on a sun-drenched day on the coast of Crete. The heavenly aroma of the slow-cooking shawarma greets you as you enter, setting even a vegetarians taste-buds aflutter. Fortunately, there is a good vegetarian menu of traditional Mediterranean foods, such as the tasty falafel and rib-sticking spinach and feta pie. All the meats used are hormone and antibiotic-free from Nieman Ranch and Rocky Range Meats. The owners themselves are usually behind the kitchen counter serving up food that they are obviously proud of. Review © 2007, Wcities |
