I'd run with 2223 as a first choice, Starbelly a very close second, and then Catch, which is a stones throw from the Castro Theater which is where I'm guessing your headed for the SFGMC event. See you there!

I wouldn't lay big money on this venue re-opening any time in the future. Marie was becoming very much less active in the operation, and the son & daughter have other primary interests. Shame - food was never that great but I liked it nonetheless, and I hate to see those old, old waiters out on the street...

Hi Caroline,
expat Brit here seconding Robert Lauriston's suggestion of Incanto. It would get you out of the downtown area into my neighborhood of Noe Valley - a trolley car would deliver you to the door or it's about a $15 cab fare.
Great food & well reviewed on this site.
Enjoy your trip!

second that...excellent choice.

Absinthe has a great selection of some hard to find Gin, as well as bartenders who generally have some interesting cocktails in their repetoire.
Nice looking bar. Avoid pre-Symphony/Opera nights.

maybe Sams Grill on Bush at Belden Alley? They have curtained booths along one side also separated from the main dining area by a walkway & wall. The largest can be configured for a dozen. Somewhat old fashioned fare but it's a nice little slice of older-time SF.

Castro has traditionally been a dining dead-spot but SUMI (formerly Ma Tante Sumi) on 18th nr. Eureka is a great little find.
http://www.suminthecastro.com/
Romantic, intimate space and attentive service.

Haven't been to the Anchor Oyster Bar in a while (on Castro nr. 19th) but it used to be great for wine, chowder & oysters. Ideal for pre or post-drinkies munchies.

Third Foreign Cinema.
2223 is also good, though can be real noisy.
Consider Absinthe in Hayes Valley area.

There is no good food in the Castro proper. If you are seeking something quick there a handful of spots referenced above but nothing Chowhound inspiring.

Lived here 17 years. The boys don't come here for fine dining....trust me on this one. Enjoy the theater.

How about Fresca on 24th? Shouldn't be a problem with reservations. Further up the street is Lupa where I've always had luck with walk-ins. Next door is Kookiez (sp?) though I have to admit to being underwhelmed on my last visit.

As it's Monday be sure to phone ahead - some in the 'hood are closed on this day.

I like La Provence... authentic fare in a pretty room, if a little cramped.
Friendly service - it's a Gallic Father & US born son affair. I've been about five times and it seems to draw a 60/40 mix of neighborhood locals to cross-towners.

Where is it located? Seem to recall Noe Valley Voice mentioned Church St, but not sure where...

For breakfast around San Carlos try the diner at the San Carlos Airport. Wonderful omelets & friendly service.

Counter or table service, and entertainment provided by watching the little airplanes trying to land...

Izzy's Steakhouse is a great choice, both in SF (marina district) and the peninsula (at San Carlos Airport).

Original Joes is within a - very dodgy - block, up Taylor.

Very old time Italian, huge portions. Nothing very modern - menu, food prep, decor & tuxedo'd staff - but it's a place I really rather enjoy. Old time San Francisco, with a mixed crowd - on/off duty cops, city hall politicos and their ear benders, young and old.

Family run, and a nice family.

Second Absinthe...

Good bar scene & attractive setting - zinc bar, brasserie feel. Excellent full bar (14 gins as an example) & usually some interesting cocktail specials on the chalkboard.

Excellent bartenders - they mix great cocktails, know when to chat & when not to....