LOL, we get new New Mexican right here at home, SAB. Good to "see" you again.

Is that "New Mexican" or "New" Mexican?

Hey, Deb what area are you going to stay in this time?

We just had the most fabulous meal at Michael Chiarello's newest restaurant, Coqueta, at Pier 5 on the Embarcadero. It's Spanish-influenced, with wonderful tapas and an excellent paella, and tasty cocktails (loved the one called "Death to the Summer of Love"!). Highly recommend this place.

>>Stu, also better not to go on a Friday or Saturday night.

Hotel near Union Sq, this time, SAB. Can't seem to work out our Castro condo rental anymore.

Deb, have you ever looked into the apartments that can be rented through the Inn on Castro? I've never tried them (my husband and I stay in the Inn itself-- a delightful B&B), but the Tripadvisor reviews are great. It might be a backup possibility.

That looks great! Thanks. Will keep it in mind for next trip, we are prepaid at this point.

We've been to State Bird twice - highly recommend it.

We still like Cotogna and Park Tavern (pork chop).

I didn't like Rich Table last March and I wouldn't return to Abbott's Cellar again (last June).

I would love to try Zuni's chicken for dinner one day. We've had some wonderful lunches there.

We also liked Seven Hills a lot - very small - reservations are a must.

Flour and Water is also very good.

I'd to try State Bird, but waiting on a line to eat won't work for us.

S/B:
I'd like to try....

What didn't you like about Rich Table??

Zuni's chicken is really worth the wait while it's prepared, quite delish.

We recently had really good meals at Range, SPQR, Piccino, and Gamine.

La Ciccia (Sardinian cuisine and wines) on 30th and Church.

Firefly on 24th near Douglass is still popular.

We've done Firefly; it's lovely.

The most disappointing meal we've had in the last 5 years was as at Park Tavern.

Stu Dudley

State Bird Provisions is closed temporarily for an expansion. They were to reopen mid-Sept. but the latest update is that the reopening will not be until late October (but they will be accepting reservations after they reopen).

From my March 2013 TR: "We had wonderful meals everywhere except for Rich Table. They are trying so hard to be different that their entrees and desserts are different, but not great. Their $4 bread is not great either." I remember that some of the food ingredients/combinations just didn't work. We all felt that way.

If I had a disappointing meal anywhere, I wouldn't return either. Two meals at Park Tavern in the last year - both very good. Friends from NY just ate there - really liked it too.

Both times at State Bird - WITH reservations. It was made through their website with a link to Urbanspoon.

Izzy's in Cow Hollow. Not new but not on the "big" lists. We had a great meal with excellent service and a super mix of people - lots of locals and regulars. One of the best steaks ever!

I make the swan oyster depot every time I'm in s.f. Went to the cliff house for the first time. Very beautiful views and interesting history. Food was very good also. Can be very romantic. Saw a couple get engaged.

Have you ever been to the California Culinary Academy?
It's a fun place to watch up and coming new chefs try their skills out. Wannabe chefs also take turns being your wait person so they learn up front what the customers want.