San Francisco Restaurants : Jackson Square

Kokkari

Address: 200 Jackson Street, San Francisco, CA 94111 (Map) - Tel:(415) 981-0983

Warm and inviting, Kokkari Estiatorio evokes old-world elegance while remaining one of San Francisco’s most popular locales for a romantic evening, a business meeting or just a casual drink with friends. The roaring fireplace and the rustic vaulted ceilings are the ideal backdrop for a hearty Mediterranean meal. Guests can try a traditional Greek Mezethe (appetizer) or sample one of the restaurants unique varietals from the impressive wine list. Nestled in the Financial District near many of San Francisco’s most attractive sights, Kokkari Estiatorio is an experience in Greek culture, an experience you will surely want to savor.

Quince

Address: 470 Pacific Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94133 (Map) - Tel:(415) 775-8500

Under the direction of chef and owner Michael Tusk, Quince is revitalizing a sense of European charm in Pacific Heights. Utilizing only the finest organic, local, and seasonal, ingredients, Chef Tusk creates a new menu each day to exemplify his Italian and French-inspired culinary sensibility. Diners will never experience the same meal twice, but they will always recognize familiar notes of Chef Tusk’s vision. Dishes like the Warm Octopus Salad, the Tonnarelli, and the Devil’s Gulch Rabbit, deliver the classic elegance of fine Parisian fare minus the haute pretense. The ever-changing tasting menu pairs the intricacies of flavors with the vibrancy of wine for another level of delight.

Piperade

Address: 1015 Battery Street, San Francisco, CA 94111 (Map) - Tel:(415) 391-2555

Named after one of the Basque region’s signature dishes, Piperade combines accomplished Chef Gerald Hirigoyen’s robust and unique native cuisine with the Bay Area’s fresh and bustling vibe. Nestled between Telegraph Hill and the Financial District, this warm, chic restaurant attracts a lively crowd. Piperade’s menu focuses on fresh, savory seafood and gourmet touches, and even offers daily prix fixe lunch specials. The Cold Poached Foie Gras with black pepper, sea salt and apple compote as well as the Piperade with sautéed serrano ham and poached egg are promising selections that make this menu stand apart. With an inviting outdoor patio, full bar, and elegant dining room, this restaurant is well-suited for occasions as diverse as a family gathering and a night out on the town.

Cotogna

Address: 490 Pacific Street, San Francisco, CA 94133 (Map) - Tel:(415) 775-8508

Cotogna has many features to offer hungry diners: authentic Italian cuisine, late hours, and a convenient location in Jackson Square. As if that weren’t enough, the classic brick walls add another pleasing aspect to the already welcoming décor. Bar dining affords guests an up-close view of the open kitchen, including a classic pizza oven. But pizza isn’t all that Cotogna is serving up: patrons can choose from a list of lunch and dinner options daily, with a special Sunday Supper menu available weekly. Because Cotogna strives to use fresh ingredients, the lunch and dinner menus are subject to change. However, faithful guests can expect to see a variety of Ravioli, Gnocchi, Tortellini, and other traditional pastas grace the menu of this restaurant. Cotogna is also known for their Spit Roasted Becker Lane Pork Loin and their skill with pizzas, which include topping choices such as Artichoke and Manila Clam. The Sunday Supper is a prix fixe menu that changes weekly from which guests can enjoy three to four courses, including dessert, at a special fixed price. Whether looking for a late dinner or an early lunch, Cotogna features many options for their hungry customers.

Tommy Toy's

Address: 655 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94111 (Map) - Tel:(415) 397-4888

Imagine sitting in the quarters of the 19th century Qing Dynasty Dowager Empress. That is the picture founder Tommy Toy is trying to convey with his upscale Chinese cuisine Restaurant. Authentic 300-year-old tapestries line the walls, complemented by hand silvered mirrors to give you a sense of being taken back in time. A unique blend of Chinese and French cuisine encompasses the menu with dishes such as Medallions of Filet Mignon Wok-Charred with Garlic and a Touch of Rosemary with Fresh Asparagus Spears, or as an appetizer, the Minced Squab Imperial, a critic favorite.