This restaurant is my strongest lasting memory of San Francisco, which either means it was really good or I like food way to much; the truth is probably somewhere in the middle. I'm a grilled... More

This restaurant is my strongest lasting memory of San Francisco, which either means it was really good or I like food way to much; the truth is probably somewhere in the middle. I'm a grilled cheese, plain turkey sandwich kind of girl and order everything with zero spice. I like most asian foods, but generally stick with simple dishes. This contemporary asian restaurant was so tasty that I let my guard down and loved it all. They hit the mark on everything (especially dumplings and lettuce wraps) and I was out of commission for a good two hours following. Highly recommended!
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Back in the mid-90's, my local food network TV show was all agog with the creative, pan-Asia food served up in a (cliché alert) trendy space. And when I went there on a business trip shortly there... More

Back in the mid-90's, my local food network TV show was all agog with the creative, pan-Asia food served up in a (cliché alert) trendy space. And when I went there on a business trip shortly there after, I too was a fan. The calamari was superb. Their take on dumplings came with a tasty and spicy, not-too-hot sauce. I was impressed with the creativity and the fresh look of the room. My SF based friend recently paid a visit based on my recommendation (a real foodie) and pronounced it still great. While these guys may have been in the forefront of this genre of cooking, they have remained at the top of their game. Great food in a town where good food places close after 6 months.
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The gleaming open kitchen dishes out its tried-and-true formula of reasonably priced Pan-Asian cuisine. But rather than being a fusion of East and West, each dish reflects regional authenticity.... More

The gleaming open kitchen dishes out its tried-and-true formula of reasonably priced Pan-Asian cuisine. But rather than being a fusion of East and West, each dish reflects regional authenticity. Attentive, well-informed servers help diners navigate the large menu, suggesting small plates such as feisty wok-tossed peanuts with anchovies, chilies and garlic; or lettuce cups brimming with minced chicken and lup cheong sausage. For a cooling pause, try green papaya salad tossed with shrimp and mint. Other highlights include shiny, assertive Szechuan green beans and cloud-like dumplings. Steer clear of mushy, clumped-together Thai rice noodles. For dessert, ginger creme brulee is an interesting twist on the French classic. I've visited Betelnut many times with my date, my friends, and my families. It's a place for all kinds of group. The cocktails here are interesting, too, especially those with Sake. I like the Tsunami. It's really good for girls!!!
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When friends visit town, where should you take them out to dinner? There are so many "classic" but boring or insanely expensive San Franicisco establishments. Betelnut is the perfect solution. It's... More

When friends visit town, where should you take them out to dinner? There are so many "classic" but boring or insanely expensive San Franicisco establishments. Betelnut is the perfect solution. It's offbeat but has excellent food -- which makes it the perfect introduction to the San Francisco restaurant scene. It's in a funky part of town (Union Street.) I especially like the seabass, the spicy green beans, and the dumplings. The ambience is informal but stylish. There's also a respectable wine list, and there is convenient parking across the street. But be sure to make a reservation well ahead of time -- they are ALWAYS full and walk-ins will have a long wait.
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I keep going back to get the green beans, lettuce cups and basically all of the fish entrees. I have not been disappointed by an appetizer there ever. The service is good and pretty fast given the... More

I keep going back to get the green beans, lettuce cups and basically all of the fish entrees. I have not been disappointed by an appetizer there ever. The service is good and pretty fast given the crowds. Their signature drinks are also good. There are some drawbacks. Being seated in the bar area on a crowded evening can be disappointing given that the bar area and the tables are close together and one can get jostled a lot. Also, the restaurant can be very loud and the wait long.
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