Harris' - A quality east coast steak experience in SF

If you have been craving a classic steak dinner in a fine dining environment, then look no further than Harris' on Van Ness. Although it has only been on the block since 1984, it feels like it has been there since 1904. Top quality service, comfy booths and a mean Prime rib with live piano playing in the background. I opted for the crab cakes and a Rib eye, medium rare with a bottle of Cali Cab chosen by my host Jordan. Some people say this is the best steak joint in the country, am not sure about that but I certainly went away with a satisfied smile on my face and made a personal commitment to not eat again for at least a week!

Monday night at "The House"

Its a rainy Monday night which is all the more reason to get yourself out and about to sample some more of the City's fabulous restaurants. Going back to my own list, tonight's choice was "The House" in North Beach. After shelling out 11 dollars for parking to avoid the driving round for 30 mins to score a spot situation, we entered the small, unassuming "House" on Grant st. With Minimal decor and only wine bottles providing color on the walls, it was hard to tell what kind of cuisine to expect. It turns out to be Pan Asian with a liang ban haung gua starter on the table, we then ordered shrimp dumplings, scallops, the miso glazed cod special and the sea bass. The food was downright tasty with just the right size portions. I was tempted by a scrumtous looking creme brule but it ended up being drowned in a tart passion fruit glaze. Too much for my palette and the waitress was rather grumpy. All considered "The House" has catapulted itself into my top 10, not for ambiance but for amazingly presented and deliciously prepared food.

Coco 500 - neighbourhood chic

We were recently considering checking out Orson, but after putting our head in the door, we decided to pass (#1 restaurant rule, no people, no go). Walking up and down the street we finally came upon Coco 500, lurking on the corner of Brannan. It has very inviting earth tones and clean design. Starting with a mojito which was well mixed, we ordered a plate of the home made papardelle with lamb. Tremendously tasty, accompanied by a simple salad and some brocolli rabe. Check out this place for a mid week night out. Only downside, a little pricey for the offering.

Slanted Door - an SF classic

Seated in between two gorgeous ladies, looking out over the Bay Bridge and tucking into some sizzling beef at Slanted Door has to meet most guy's ultimate dining wish list. Friday night was my lucky night to go back to the Phan favourite on the Embarcadero, first opened in the Mission in 1995. This restaurant has now very much become a San Francisco institution. Starting with the Yellowtail, followed by Snap peas, Halibut, sizzling beef and some Japanese eggplant, it was all perfect. All washed down with a Belgian dark beer, clocking in at a healthy 7% and served by our top notch blonde mohicaned waiter in fine wine glasses. If you live here and haven't been here, shame on you, if you are newly arrived, pick some friends and make a booking asap! You won't be disappointed and if you fancy mixing it after dinner head next door to La Mar for a Pisco sour at the bar, enjoy.