Fringale
570 4th Street
San Francisco, CA 94107
415.543.0573
fringalesf.com
Save some of that sourdough to dip into the pastis and tarragon based cherry tomato and prawn starter. The Basque influenced menu includes a classic frise topped with a perfectly poached egg. The flaky white halibut creates a beautiful composition. But it is the colorful reduced sauces that are a signature of the famous chefs (Gerald Hirigoyen leads the pack), so don't feign adventure. The bent wood bar and atmosphere of this bustling local lunch haunt is a bit more conducive to meetings and small gatherings than romantic interludes.