An agreement needs to be reached that the Fall California Dental Society meeting should last at least seven days. It is held in delightful San Francisco when it has its nicest weather (bring a sweater for its cool nights), it's a city with many, many attractions (yes, Alcatraz is a great tour), and there are so many wonderful restaurants from Caramel to Napa. Wait, seven days is not enough.
Where should you go? I won't mention the French laundry, since you can't get in. Reservations are required months ahead of time.
But, if you act fast, there may be an opportunity for dinner and homage at Chez Panisse (510-548-5525) take BART, get a cab, or rent a car to get to this palace in Berkeley. The owner Alice Waters acknowledged to be the founder of California Cuisine, which is built on using only the freshest in season ingredients. You will find that a simple tomato has never tasted this good. This is a legend.
Reservation and a gold card are needed at restaurant Gary Danko (415-749-2060). While relatively new, it has earned a top reputation in a town that is serious about food. Here, the names of chef's staff are as well known as those on a baseball roster, and the place has all-stars. It is multi course, pre fixe, and among the top 10 restaurants in the country. Have the wine pairing with your meal and you will not forget this evening, unless you have to much wine.
Aqua (415-956-9662) is fresh seafood served in high style. Sauces, broth, herbs, seasoning, nothing is left to change. Fine food in a lovely room, but a word of caution. I find that the tables are a bit to close together. Be careful what you say, for the folks at the next table may be a dentist from across town, or the exhibitor across the aisle.
If you are a vegetarian, and even if you are not, spend an evening at Greens (415-771-6222) It is practically beneath the Golden Gate Bridge on the grounds of the Presido. I'm a meat eater from the Midwest, but I know I'll enjoy my next meal here, as I have in the past. You will leave healthier and wondering "how did they make vegetables taste that good?"
Find the time to go to Jardiniere (415-861-5555). It's in the opera house area and is very cool. The bi-level restaurant has one of the classiest bars in town, a fine wine list, an appropriate combo and beautiful people. All this with a hearty selection of very tasty food. In fact, this place does not just make the food pretty, it is tasty in a pretty place.
Get off the beaten path at two local spots. Café Kati (415-775-7313) is small, in a friendly, young neighborhood, reasonable and very satisfying. It has a local following that pushes the kitchen staff to high standards.
Plump Jack (415-563-4755) may be a suspicious name, but if you finish your week in the Bay Area with this neighborhood jewel, you may just also deserve the so bought of Plump. They know wine; the food is fresh and ranges from seafood to heartier fare. It's a comfortable place to bring friends, relax and prepare to enjoy a fine dining experience. I think it's all good, but with their seafood, you cant go wrong.
Okay, everybody sing along "I left my diet in San Francisco..."
