Serving modern Italian cuisine with Northern California influences and fresh ingredients from the Farmers Market, Americano is a reflection of the revitalized Embarcadero waterfront. B daily 6:30-10:30am, L daily 11:30am-2:30pm, D nightly 5:30-10-pm, Br Sa-Su 10:30am-3pm. $$$. AE, DC, MC, V.

Catalan cuisine in the masterful hands of Chef Daniel Olivella yields specialties including paella, rabbit a la Catalana, steak with chimichurri sauce as well as shellfish, poultry and some vegetarian dishes; extensive wine list. Sidewalk seating. L M-F 11:30am-2:30pm, D nightly 5:30-10:30pm. $$$. AE, DC, MC, V.

A panorama of Asian cuisine with each dish created according to authentic recipes. Sip tropical drinks in the Dragonfly Lounge under swaying fans in the retro, witty and exotic décor. L daily 11:30am-4pm, D F-Sa 4pm-midnight, Su-Th until 11pm. $$. CB, DC, D, JCB, MC, V.

Catch serves fresh local seafood and land fare in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere and a festive full bar in the heart of the Castro. L M-F 11:30am-2:30pm, D Su-Th 5:30-10pm, F-Sa until 11pm, Br Sa-Su 11am-3pm. $$$. AE, DC, MC, V.

A neighborhood restaurant on popular Fillmore Street featuring French bistro fare in a sleek dining room and at heated sidewalk tables. L M-F 11:30am-3pm, D nightly 5:30-10pm, Br Sa-Su 10am-3pm. Beer/wine. $$$. AE, CB, DC, D, MC, V.

An Urban Venetian Mecca in the heart of San Francisco, featuring Northern Italian cuisine, a lively patio and space for private dining. B daily 6:30-10:30am, L daily 11:30am-2:30pm, D Su-Th 5:30-10pm, F-Sa 5:30-10:30pm. $$$. AE, D, JCB, MC, V.

Authentic Italian food made from scratch featuring mesquite-grilled meats, imported pastas, crisp pizzas and award-winning hearth baked breads. B M-F 7-10am, L 11:30am-4:30pm, D daily 4:30-10pm, F-Sa until 11pm, Br Sa-Su 9am-1pm. $$$. AE, D, MC, V.

Many experiences await, whether it be in the cozy confessional; outside in the European-style alley with heat lamps or at the bar where Irish memorabilia abound. Serving food 11:30am-10:45pm. $$. AE, MC, V.

A neighborhood bistro recapturing the ambiance of French café culture in a lovely setting, offering favorite French fare as well as an extensive wine list. L 11am-3pm, D nightly 5:30-10pm, Su until 9pm, Br Sa-Su 9:30am-3pm. Beer/wine. $$$. AE, MC, V.