Six restaurants you won't want to miss on your next trip to San Francisco.
Tratto
This modern Italian trattoria in San Francisco’s Union Square, designed by Puccini Group, draws inspiration from European decor, evident in the classic black-and-white patterned tile floor, high ceilings, and arched windows that create a bright and airy space by day and a dramatic dining room by night.
Many of the decorative elements were created or influenced by artist-in-residence Amos Goldbaum, including custom paintings showcasing iconic skylines of the city as well as his line work, seen on three large canvases in the main dining room and directly on the walls in the private dining room.
The furniture selection reflects a California interpretation of classic Italian design, while light pendants from a New York-based lighting design manufacturer dangle from the ceiling. Custom vases and platters by local ceramicist Katy Rodden of Mizu Ceramics dot the space. Images courtesy of the restaurant.
A Mano
This full-service, 91-seat Italian restaurant specializing in handmade pasta by Chef Freedom Rains (of Flour + Water and Incanto) embodies authentic Italian style with dominant colors of red, white and green throughout the space.
The communal table and bar top are inspired by a tailor’s worktable, while geometric light fixtures add a modern touch to the simple yet elegant space that opened in May 2017. Images courtesy of the restaurant.
Robin
This hyper-seasonal omakase-sushi restaurant in budding Hayes Valley features a progressive menu by Adam Tortosa (former sushi chef at Akiko’s) available for diners at the sushi bar or in the main dining room.
Custom artwork by many Bay Area designers, including bright, coral tile mosaics; rose gold resin detailing using the centuries-old technique of kintsugi; and a neon pink version of the restaurant’s logo, add pop to the smoky gray walls and worn-in flooring.
The space also features custom woodworking, including the blond alderwood sushi bar and dark wood dining-room tables, flanked by Jered’s Pottery plateware. Images courtesy of Albert Law
Flores
This modern Mexican restaurant, opened in November 2016, serves authentic dishes by Chef/Partner Alejandro Morgan alongside contemporary cocktails. The edgy yet sophisticated and playful space spans 3,500 square feet and seats 140 with distinct spaces meant to represent an extension of a home kitchen, beachside restaurant and town center all in one.
The restaurant’s interiors also exhibit a diverse assortment of patterns and textures reflecting Mexico’s cities, states and regions. Local artists created the murals and metalwork, while traditional white plaster offers a toned-down balance for the many colors. Ceiling fans, deep cowhide chairs sourced from Mexico and a lively bar add energy to the space, while a wall of windows frames a verdant outdoor garden situated under a canopy of porcelain string lights. Images courtesy of Flores
Villon
At the all-day restaurant Villon (pronounced “villain”) inside the newly opened San Francisco Proper Hotel, Chef Jason Franey, an Eleven Madison Park alum, showcases his signature creative American cuisine. The space, outfitted by interior designer Kelly Wearstler and inspired by French Cubist painter Jacques Villon, features three distinct vignettes, including a European-style lobby salon, a main dining room that seats 44 with detailed furnishings, and an intimate private dining room that seats up to 14.
The art-deco-meets-modern look includes design elements like framed geometric artwork, black-and-blond wood tiled floors, unique light fixtures, contemporary chairs and black leather banquettes flanked by light blue, textured walls and “broken” mirror paneling. Images courtesy of Noah Webb
The Riddler
Many of the historical details in this Hayes Valley champagne bar and small-plates restaurant from Jen Pelka, such as decorative wainscoting and woodwork, were refurbished and then balanced out by contemporary black, white and gold decor to resemble a small Parisian cafe.
Bar-height seating, cafe tables handmade in France, and custom leather banquettes accommodate up to 40 guests for indoor and outdoor seating. Custom floral arrangements and black-and-white photographs of women add a romantic touch. The list of more than 100 champagnes and vintages features selections from many women-owned businesses. The Riddler opened in January 2017. Images courtesy of Kassie Borreson
