I am going to be in SF in early October with various friends, and am a real walker (the better to prepare for face stuffing) Whts the news on good food and bars in Finanacial District, South of Market and Tenderloin areas?

I can find the $$$$ places with the "bla-bla-bla" reviews myself, am interested in small, historic and really good...

Thanks all

Look for minerality in good Riesling, any of them. That is what gives structure to the sugar, and for that, mostly German wines excel. Also, secondary flavors from mint to petrol to guavas. The rieslings I like have an aftertaste that lasts quite awhile. E. Shoenlieber from Nahe Valley makes georgeous wine, but not cheap.

Lets face it, some wine is just made for hot days and swilling in large quantites, or even mixing with other things (sangria). A nicely made Sancerre or a Cal Pinot with ice in it though? please God, no. Some judgement is called for.

Thanks a million, my goal is 30,000 calories in 4 days, so I will make a thorough report if I survive.

Hungry Celeste, thank God for you. Nothing is worse than having great food on the table, and being afraid to eat it cause the place is TOO STUFFY..... Any recommendations on fresh oysters in Nola now?

Merriman's in Waimea was so-so in April, GREAT fresh produce, very young, clumsy staff, and a bit o'the hair in two dishes, human I hope.

Not trying to trash, but be careful. We mentioned the hair, and got ignored.

I am headed to Nola in October, to meet friends from far and wide (Chicago, LA, Bay Area) and EAT (well, maybe drink enough to wash it down too...)

All hail the old guard palaces, but can anyone let me know where to eat a little more casual and local ? My friends are not the table cloth types, but really do like good food.

We were there last in the spring before Katrina, and I really miss it.

Thanks a million,