7 Adams San Francisco

In San Francisco’s upscale dining scene, most tasting menus don’t justify the price—tiny portions and forgettable dishes are all too common. But that’s not the case at 7 Adams. For $87 per person, this laid-back fine dining spot offers five unforgettable courses that will stick with you for a full year.

A cozy Fillmore restaurant helmed by the husband-and-wife team behind Marlena, the Bernal Heights gem that gained national attention for its seasonal prix fixe menu before closing unexpectedly after just three years.

The menu is seasonal but with a stellar pasta course, bar seating, and a sleek new space. The atmosphere is inviting, but ensure the host is inviting and welcoming, or train one to be. Kindly, slow down the pacing between courses. Was the rush due to our 9:30pm reservation or if it’s a regular occurrence, but it seemed like people were being hurried to finish as quickly as possible.

 

Aphotic San Francisco (One MICHELIN star) definitely a must stop

A fresh seafood restaurant Aphotic made its debut in San Francisco back in March 2023 (One MICHELIN star) and we finally made it. The chosen name derives from the Greek prefix ἀ- + φῶς, which translates to "without light," symbolizing the depths of the ocean where sunlight barely reaches one percent. Aphotic introduces a delightful tasting menu that celebrates the wonders of sea life in each delectable course. The restaurant is the brainchild of chef Peter Hemsley, formerly known for his establishment, Palette, which occupied the same SoMa location now inhabited by the new venture. Making a bold shift in February, Hemsley closed Palette to embark on this new concept, and the result is a stunning space adorned with deep black paint, warm nut brown woods, and rich mahogany-hued leather.

At the heart of Aphotic lies a mission to establish an unparalleled level of transparency in seafood sourcing. Hemsley's culinary vision goes beyond simply being another seafood restaurant; instead, he seeks to forge a direct connection between diners and the individuals responsible for harvesting these ocean treasures. With every course, Aphotic aims to immerse its guests in an unforgettable dining experience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the people who bring these fresh products from the water to the table.

The journey through the exquisite 10-course tasting menu commences with a delectable small bite, thoughtfully chosen by Hemsley to provide a captivating glimpse into the restaurant's philosophy regarding seafood sourcing. This dish showcases the prized Mt. Lassen trout, celebrated among chefs for its impeccably clean flavor.

While many restaurants simply purchase fish from the northern California farm, Hemsley takes a more involved approach. Every two weeks, he personally ventures to the mountains on harvesting day, actively participating in selecting the finest products himself, ensuring an exceptional dining experience for his guests.

The mere thought of spot prawns and caviar, oyster ice cream, and delightfully inventive cocktails infused with pandan, toasted coconut Cognac, and absinthe fills me with a longing to revisit this remarkable experience.

Aphotic (816 Folsom Street in San Francisco) serves dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 5:30 to 10 p.m.

 
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Mama's Fish House - Maui

Mama's Fish House is an iconic restaurant located in Paia, embodying the essence of fine dining with a touch of island-style elegance. The establishment boasts a sophisticated ambiance adorned with gleaming hardwood finishes, complemented by breathtaking ocean views. Impeccably dressed servers gracefully navigate the space, donning vibrant Hawaiian-print muumuus and aloha shirts while skillfully balancing exquisite seafood and beautifully crafted cocktails. The moment you step through its doors, you will instantly recognize that you have arrived at a truly special place.

Known as a destination for special occasions, Mama's attracts a diverse crowd, including locals celebrating noteworthy milestones such as anniversaries, honeymooning tourists, and discerning food enthusiasts seeking a remarkable culinary experience.

Indulge in their thoughtfully curated cocktail selection, featuring classic libations infused with tropical flair, such as the tantalizing Papa's Whiskey Sour with a hint of lilikoi. Their wine offerings are equally impressive, with a concise yet exceptional list featuring Billecart-Salmon bubbles, New Zealand sauvignon blancs, and Napa Valley favorites.

Mama's reputation for serving the freshest seafood on the island is unparalleled. Their daily changing menu proudly showcases the catch of the day, highlighting the name of the skilled fisherman who reeled in the delicacy and the precise location where it was caught. In addition to their seafood specialties, Mama's also offers tantalizing options like succulent lobster tails, flavorful short ribs, and perfectly prepared steak. While undeniably exceptional, it's worth noting that their entrees command a higher price point, typically around $65 each.

Considered a Maui institution, Mama's Fish House is an experience that transcends any special occasion. Even if you're not celebrating a specific event, treating yourself to a dining adventure at Mama's is a worthy investment. However, it's crucial to be aware that due to its immense popularity, reservations are highly sought after and often booked months in advance. As soon as your Maui travel dates are confirmed, it is strongly advised to secure your table promptly to avoid missing out on this exceptional opportunity.

DIOR - Tailor Made Cuisine

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Discover a collection of Christian Dior’s favorite recipes featuring delectable illustrations by artist René Gruau.
From soups to soufflés, this e-book reflects on the couturier’s love of cooking.

Bon appétit!

CHEF MICHEL GUÉRARD

Whip up Monsieur Dior’s favorite delicacies alongside iconic French chef Michel Guérard.


SHOP


Bonjour Cecconi's West Hollywood

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On the corner of Melrose Avenue and Robertson Boulevard in West Hollywood an elegant, modern  Italian  restaurant is filled with an attractive crowd. It is the sister restaurant to the members club SoHo house. This place attracts business people and a stylish evening crowd. Walking in, a gentleman in a suit and a tie greets us by the door and offers to take that photo we attempt to take on our own then takes us in. Inside you find marble floors, chandeliers and patio tables with the luxurious cushions strewn along the terrace banquet.

Cecconi’s originated in Venice and serves hand-made pasta, seafood, and dishes from Northern Italy using the best ingredients.

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Grilled Octopus - Yes! Lobster pasta - Yes! Veal Milanese - Yes! Lamb ragu: easily the best dish of the night. Cecconi's  pasta is hand made and they do so perfectly.

For dessert order profiteroles and you couldn't get any happier. They are served at the table and chocolate fudge poured on top. Absolutely divine.

Servers and bartenders pay attention to detail and the manager is always on the floor. If you are  looking for a good time at an upbeat, trendy West Hollywood restaurant, look no further!

 

ZUMA Miami - GREAT FOOD WITH A GREAT VIEW

ZUMA, Miami - a gorgeous space with soaring ceilings and fluttering paper lanterns. Like the London original, the effect of the natural stone and wood elements is a hip spa-like. This first American branch of chef Rainer Becker's popular London original is Becker's upscale vision of the traditional version.

On a recent visit to ZUMA, we tried nearly half the menu. Impeccably balanced Zuma's dishes areart-on-a-plate and served from three kitchens (main, robata grill and sushi). Quality is top. Zuma's version of miso-marinated "black cod" is amazing.  It comes as butter in fish form. The glaze that comes with it is delicious as well. Ok- the glazes/sauces that come with all the dishes are phenomenal- high five to the sauce chef (if there is one). 

Let's not forget the wine. Greatlist featuring rare bottles. Do explore Japan's wine, saké, from Zuma's large list. Enjoy this very high-priced Japanese fare in an elegant setting.

Crystal Jade Jiang Nan San Francisco

To renovate a 20,000-square-foot space in the Embarcadero Center to build an upscale Asian chain, cost $14 million. Recently acquired by LVMH, the luxury group that owns Louis Vuitton, Dom Perignon, Dior and other well known brands, Crystal Jade Jiang Nan opened up as one of the biggest restaurants in the city of San Francisco. Designed by prestigious Ken Fulk, this huge space turned into Asian castle with a modern twist and amazing views of the Bay.

Photo courtesy: Crystal Jade

Photo courtesy: Crystal Jade

Crystal Jade’s Menu reads like ahigh end Chinese restaurant with lots of options. The food is authentic with great attention to ingredients, freshness, taste and presentation. Prices are very high, but best in town Pecking duck and Apple Wood Roasted Suckling Pig.

Photo courtesy: Crystal Jade

Photo courtesy: Crystal Jade

Every bite of shrimp and spinach, sticky rice lotus wrapped , scallop and shrimp and for dessert rice ball with black sesame rolled in peanuts dimsum was exquisite.

Crystal Jade serves truly authentic Chinese cuisine of pretty high standards. Definitely one of the best Chinese restaurant in the heart of San Francisco.