I will be in San Francisco next month during my birthday. A friend has offered to take me out for dinner where I want to go. We will be staying in the Embarcadero area and I would like to find someplace around there. I like most any kind of food and would prefer someplace that is fairly quiet, tables that aren't packed together and that isn't going to be real expensive. Any suggestions?

Go to chowhound.com. It's organized geographically, and has loads of information about restaurants and food.

Had a great dinner recently at Boulevard.

Here's another recommendation for Boulevard. Reservations way in advance required.

Check out this website and then scroll down and check off the areas you're interested in. So many good places to eat in SF. Have fun.

http://sfgate.com/eguide/search/food/

One Market might be a good option. Also there are several restaurants in the Embarcadero, though they tend to be chains, some are quite good.

ttt

Elizabeth Daniel is within walking distance. It's one of the best in San Francisco.

My favorite, that I've named several times on this site is Trattoria Contadina. Authentic Italian food on the corner of Union and Mason.
It is small and the tables are close, but you don't feel over run by your next "table" neighbor.
The food is outstanding, I love the gniocchi in the tomato cream sauce. My husband and I always get that dish, plus one new one (then share). Everything has been excellent, and I have been there 15+ times.
It is shockingly inexpensive for SF, but it's the kind of place that is packed every night of the week so you need reservations.
Dinner for my husband and I costs around $35 every time. We do not drink wine, but have coffee liquer drinks afterwards.