Dubonnet's Profile
Teetotaler seeks beer advice...
The City Beer Store on Folsom is a great place for beer advice. They even have beers you can taste.
Gary Danko, Quince, or La Folie
None of the above are bad, but Gary Danko is super formulaic and La Folie is a bit out dated. Quince isn't bad, but it is weirdly quite and the service is stiff. The food at Quince is by far the best- so fresh and innovative. Also consider Michael Mina or Coi for dynamite experiences. Mina especially delivers big flavors and lots of variety. Coi is a bit more experimental, but it is unique and special.
A few questions about area around Hotel Palomar
I agree with most of this... Madeline is ok, but not that exciting. Check out Mint Alley for sure. There are some realy cool things going on there. Blue Bottle is a must! Fifth Floor is really good, but can be pricey. for a better value, eat in the lounge, which is a lot more laid back and has a different menu.
Also try the Ferry Plaza, which is so close to the hotel and offers all kinds of dining options. specifically, I love Slanted Door.
LA Hound's First Time in SF (aka "Help!")
Make sure one of your days involves eating your way from one end of the Ferry Plaza to the other. Caviar and blinis at Tzar Nicoli, spring rolls at Slanted Door, a glass of Champagne at the Ferry Plaza Wine Merchant, Cheese at Cowgirl Creamery, a cupcake at Miette, get the picture?
New Year's in San Francisco
Yes! go to Belden Place- it is very charming and you can easily walk to Union Square for the midnight countdown
Fifth Floor Report-Ambiance good, food fine, service poor
Did you ask about the corkage before you brought in your own wine? That might have saved you some headache.
