Quote:
Originally Posted by
Étienne 
He told me he's open to pretty much anything. Let's say a price range under $70 per head, to start with, but basically, the point is to know what you personally like.
Well, assuming he lives in France, I would skip French food. On the low end of the price scale, I'd suggest at least one meal at a Chinese restaurant, since it is really what San Francisco does best. My suggestion would be R&G Lounge. A little more than your limit, but great if he really likes food, would be Chez Panisse in Berkeley. Again, it is particular to the SF area. There is really nothing else like it in the US. Tuesday through Thursday, it is $75 per head. If he likes oysters, Hog Island Oyster Bar in the Ferry Building is great. It is an interesting setting, and the food is very, very good. Also, the Slanted Door, as mentioned above, is in the same area and is great. Finally, I would suggest Delfina Pizzeria on California Street if he wants something casual. While pizza is the mainstay of the menu, they have several other things, all very good. My recs for LA would mainly be from when I was in school down there, and thus not very good. That said, Lucques and Angelini Osteria are great places I've eaten at in the last few years.
