San Francisco (near the wharf)

[Number9]

TYVM!

 

[marty]

With the exception of Steve's suggestion of Gary Danko, I have to disagree. Fisherman's Wharf is for tourists. But since that's what you are, perhaps that's what you want. As a long time resident of SF(starting in 1968) I rarely go to the Wharf; SF has many superior restaurants. Here is a list of the Top 100 according to Michael Bauer, a highly respected restaurant critic:

TOP 100 RESTAURANTS 2018
Eating is more than something we do before or after an event. In many cases, it is the event. Chronicle restaurant critic Michael Bauer celebrates the best of Bay Area dining in this, his 23rd annual guide. Whether it’s a classic taqueria or four-star restaurant, each entry adds something special to the dining scene.
https://projects.sfchronicle.com/2018/top-100-restaurants/#search

I loved your list and was thrilled to see Yank Sing on it. It's one of my favorites in the world (only open for lunch in the financial district) and never miss it if I'm in SF. For about 25 bucks, it is phenomenal food at a bargain price. Far better, at least for value, than Gary Danko's which I've been to several times an find over-rated, pretentious and snooty. Of course they are as different as can be; dim sum vs haute cuisine. For the price of Danko's, The French Laundry is far superior (if you can get in!) but it's also in Napa, not SF. Then again, if you look up the word pretentious in the dictionary, you will see a picture of The French Laundry. Thomas Keller can certainly cook exquisite food. But for reasons I do not understand, his restaurant in NYC, Per Se, doesn't come close to the Laundry. I wonder if it's because he is really based in CA and not NY? I have spent years looking for the Yank Sing experience in NY including many restaurants in Chinatown, but sadly have never found it. If you know of one please PM me!

 

[astrotoy]

The conflict in advice appears to me to be one of looking for a nostalgic look back at a childhood memory, which is what Fisherman's Wharf is - Scoma's is the long time favorite. That is opposed to the San Francisco (and surrounding Napa Valley particularly) which is home of some of the top restaurants in the world, including a fair number with Michelin Stars. The Michael Bauer list gives you a range of prices, since most of the top restaurants are very pricey for those not used to New York or Paris prices.

One note of caution, many top restaurants are closed on Mondays. Reservations can be difficult to get, although if you are staying in a hotel, your concierge can often help.

Larry (who arrived in the Bay Area in 1967 - the summer of love).

 

[MtnHam]

I loved your list and was thrilled to see Yank Sing on it. It's one of my favorites in the world (only open for lunch in the financial district) and never miss it if I'm in SF. For about 25 bucks, it is phenomenal food at a bargain price. Far better, at least for value, than Gary Danko's which I've been to several times an find over-rated, pretentious and snooty. Of course they are as different as can be; dim sum vs haute cuisine. For the price of Danko's, The French Laundry is far superior (if you can get in!) but it's also in Napa, not SF.

Yank Sing is a perfect example of the many fine restaurants in San Francisco that are exceptional. It has been one of my favorites since my 1st visit in 1971. Dim Sum can also be found in many more moderately priced SF restaurants as well as over the counter providers. The Mission district's many Taquerias are another example of great local cuisine at bargain prices.

SF excels in the culinary arts and is indeed world class. To visit the city and only experience tourist fare would be a wasted opportunity. In the opinion of many Bay Area locals, Wharf food is mediocre at best.

 

[Number9]

Well, thanks again for the great recommendation. Dinner was fantastic. Started off with some Salmon Bruschetta followed with Clam Chowder. Wifey had mixed fried fish platter and I had the Steak and Crab special. For dessert we had a 7 layer chocolate cake drowned with dessert coffees.