SF restaurant Albona
 

We just visited San Francisco for a few days and had wonderful meals at Le Colonial, Scala's Bistro, Zuni Cafe & Grill and Tiramisu (on Beldon Place). Our other dinner was at Albona, Ristorante Istriano, 545 Francisco Street, SF CA 94133. The owner, Bruno Viscovi, originally from Trieste, is a magnificent host who warmed us with his kind attention and his amazing food. We found it through friends who live in the city. We'd gladly go back to any of these places, but the Albona has a special hospitality that shouldn't be missed. 415 441-1040.

You are not serious about Tiramisu@Belden, are you? The worst place I've been to! Bad food, microscopic portions, highly overpriced, inside seating is next to another table, so crowded.

Hi - My husband and I just decided to do something different this New Year Holiday, so we decided to check out SanFransisco. I do have a couple of questions? Can you tell me what would be the most desireable location to stay? (Fisherman Wharf or Union Square/Downtown) Also, do you know what the weather will be at that time of year? Thanks, Janine

Janine, I would scratch Union Square off your list. It is a a grimy, run down area of downtown. Fisherman's Wharf tends to be very touristy.

Carl why do you say that? Union Square is not grimy. Fisherman's Wharf is indeed touristy but everyone really has to visit it when in the city. Janine, Nob Hill has some really nice hotels if they are in your price range. We just returned from a nice stay in the Stanford Court. There is also the Fairmont, the Inter-Continental, the Ritz, the Huntington. Nice area and easy access to everything.<BR><BR>We had a very nice meal at The Steps Of Rome on Columbus Ave. Very good food, great service, extremely friendly staff. We had a not so good meal at Bocce Cafe on Green just off Columbus. It has gone downhill from what it used to be.

Ed, I can't believe you said that. It really needs some serious cleaning up. They have tried redoing the Square, but there is a lot more that needs to be done. It is not only a problem with beggars, but the many tacky dollar type stores downgrade the area as well.

For new years both Union and Fishermans are nice. Union is a little safer area. Make advance restaurant reservations.