RESTAURANTS
Aqua

Aqua is all at once the standard and the exception. It is known for its world-class seafood cuisine that sets the benchmark, and also for the almost two decades of impeccable service and consistently remarkable creations that set it apart from all others. Executive Chef Laurent Manrique brings traditional French techniques and a conservative approach, which result in balanced and harmonious dishes. The tasting menus paired with wine selections from a list that is tuned bi-weekly to reflect new finds are far and away the most popular choices at the restaurant. Patrons revel under theater-style lighting amid 12-foot high bouquets that add visually, but are artfully restrained in scent (so as not to interfere with the palatal main event). Onyx, marble, and maple wrap around diners, yet a muted crème palette governs the décor. Aqua is undeniably the finest at what it does-celebrating the very best natural delights the bay has to offer.

252 California St.
San Francisco
415.956.9662

LOUNGES
Infusion Lounge

In what’s considered the most lavish nightclub build-out in San Francisco history, the $4.6 million Infusion Lounge, which opened its doors on New Year’s Eve, encompasses 6,500 square feet of entertainment space, including 2 bars, a tapas-style Cal-Asian restaurant, an exclusive VIP room, a 2,000-square-foot Wenge hardwood dance floor, and state-of-the-art DJ booths, lighting, and sound systems. Created by Hong Kong designer Kinney Chan and drawing from Asian influences, the subterranean club features richly textured surfaces, undulating mosaic tiled walls, intriguing dragons, pulsating illuminated glass columns, opium lounging beds, a captivating elevated pool, and one of the largest, full-color motion holograms ever created. A full menu of Cal-Asian inspired small plates is available nightly, with a limited menu available after 10 p.m.  The lounge offers VIP memberships ($1,000 for 12 months) that include priority admission, access to an exclusive lounge area, bottle storage, invitations to Infusion Lounge sponsored events and parties, and exclusive room discounts at the Hotel Fusion next door.

124 Ellis St.
San Francisco
415.421.8700

RESTAURANTS
Plumed Horse

Named the Best New Restaurant in 2008 by Esquire, Plumed Horse is a culinary standout in a region that boasts its fair share of culinary masters. With one Michelin Star, this contemporary Californian restaurant features a seasonal menu using the highest quality ingredients, including sustainably sourced fish and shellfish, and local and organic produce. For those looking to be decadently indulgent, we recommend the Chef Peter Armellino’s seven-course tasting menu, which includes lobster, foie gras, and caviar. The restaurant prides itself on its personal service, which is evidenced by the separate carts for Champagne, digestif, and cheese service, as well as tableside service for sauces, soups, and meat carving. The Champagne Lounge offers nightly flights so that guests may try various vintages that are not otherwise available by the glass. Not in the mood for bubbly? Opt for one of the 1,800 wine selections.

14555 Big Basin Way
Saratoga
408.867.4711

RESTAURANTS
Michael Mina

In the culinary world, Michael Mina’s name is spoken in reverential tones. Hence, it is fitting that his first eponymous restaurant would find its home in the historic San Francisco landmark, the Westin St. Francis. Since its opening in 2004, the soft-hued dining room of Michael Mina has been a landmark for fine American dining. As diners delight in extravagances like a Kobe beef rib roast with truffle fries at the feet of classically grand columns, the glow of gold Murano lighting falls on the warm chestnut palette of the décor. Oenophiles find enchantment in the 3,000-bottle wine cellar, and it’s a perfect retreat for theater lovers who stop in after a show at a nearby stage. Michael Mina has no difficulty pleasing them all and has the accolades to prove it: Bon Appetit’s Chef of the Year in 2005, San Francisco Magazine’s Chef of the Year in 2005, the International Food and Beverage Forum Restaurateur of the year in 2005, and the first to receive Wine Spectator’s Award of Grand Excellence in a restaurant’s first year.

335 Powell St.
San Francisco
415.397.9222