Romance is everywhere you look in San Francisco (there's even something mysteriously seductive about the fog when it slowly creeps through the city). So, when it comes to wooing that special someone, there are plenty of romantic spots in San Francisco. But as everyone knows, the way to a man (and woman's!) heart is straight through the stomach. Here are the 10 most romantic restaurants in San Francisco to seduce and satiate your most beloved.
1. SPQR
SPQR (Senatus Populusque Romanus) translates to "The People and Senate of Rome," so you can imagine how much Italian verve emits from this esteemed restaurant led by Michelin star chef Matthew Accarrino.
Impress your date with fresh pastas, intricate seafood dishes, seasonal delicacies, and an extensive wine menu.
2. BIX
Tucked in an alley in the historic district of Jackson Square, this San Francisco supper club has the vintage flair of a speakeasy with the swankiness of an upscale restaurant. Live jazz adds a touch of romance as well.
The innovative menu focuses on fresh, local ingredients for a cuisine they coin as Modern San Francisco.
3. Foreign Cinema
Wrap up date night with dinner and a movie all in one spot.
Catch a classic film out on the patio while indulging in oysters, organic pop tarts, and other inventive California cuisine at this much-revered restaurant in the Mission.
4. Greens Restaurant
Got a vegetarian to woo? Take them to this scenic harbor-side institution.
Greens uses local, seasonal, and organic ingredients in all of its healthy, innovative vegetarian dishes.
5. The Cliff House
This waterfront stunner overlooks Ocean Beach, Seal Rocks, and the Sutro Bath ruins with its floor-to-ceiling windows.
There are a few options here, including Sutro’s, known for its fresh seafood and the more casual Bistro Restaurant, a favorite for breakfast or brunch. Either one can't help but be romantic with those spectacular ocean views.
6. Nopa
Elegant but without the stuffy vibe, Nopa (in the neighborhood of Nopa) has been a favorite spot for those seeking simple, organic, rustic California comfort food.
For the most romance, try to nab a spot on the second floor.
7. Quince
This plush, multiple award-winning and Michelin star restaurant located in Jackson Square is the place to really impress a date (the nightly tasting menu will set you back over $200 per person).
Elegantly crafted Italian and French-inspired dishes get a Northern California spin with all seasonal, local ingredients.
8. Gitane
Situated along Claude Lane (the most European-inspired alley in San Francisco), Gitane describes itself as combining the "sexy playfulness of a 1930s cabaret with the audacious spirit of the 1970s."
And it is indeed sexy and swanky with a little gypsy flair with a fusion-style cuisine that takes from Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese classics.
9. Waterbar
This beautiful restaurant is situated along the Embarcadero and features panoramic views of the bay—it's especially romantic at night with the Bay Bridge glistening in the backdrop.
Fresh and sustainable seafood is their claim to fame. Moneysaving tip: Come for the daily $1.05 Oyster Happy Hour.
10. Bouche
Owned by a native of Provence, Bouche brings in all the French class and romanticism you could possibly hope for in the perfect date spot.
The ambiance is warm and rustic, a perfect complement to the rich French and Mediterranean dishes andextensive wine list specializing in rare French vintages.
Where's your go-to restaurant for a romantic evening out in San Francisco? Could it be one of the city's highest rated restaurants? Or maybe just one of its tiniest eateries?
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