4 Romantic Bay Area Restaurants Recommended By Michelin Guide

BAY AREA, CA — With Valentine's Day less than a month away, it is not too soon to make plans for that special night with your favorite person.

For a delicious destination dinner with just the right ambiance, the Michelin Guide has done the work for you by selecting the most romantic restaurants in the San Francisco Bay Area.

1. Nari, 1625 Post St., San Francisco

Cuisine: Thai, Contemporary

Nari, which has one Michelin star for high-quality cooking, is a sleek retreat located within Hotel Kabuki that delivers a one-two punch with a dramatic setting and accomplished cooking, according to the Michelin Guide. Chef Pim Techamuanvivit’s personality and laser-focused palate come through in dishes that utilize fantastic Californian ingredients through a distinct, contemporary Thai lens.

2. Frances, 3870 17th St., San Francisco

Cuisine: Californian, American Contemporary

Chic and always packed, Frances is perfect for a low-key date night. Its astonishingly cozy setting attended to by a gracious staff justifies planning ahead, says the Michelin Guide. Chef/owner Melissa Perello eschews trendy powders and foams for hearty and seasonal fare like charred baby octopus with homemade yogurt and olive tapenade. Honey-brined pork chop rests over creamed escarole and fennel slaw; while McGinnis Ranch carrots are roasted with sunchokes for an interesting blend of sweet and savory. Desserts like a black sesame pavlova with chicory root ice cream offer a light, fresh conclusion.

3. Empress By Boon, 838 Grant Ave., San Francisco

Cuisine: Cantonese

For decades, this iconic location housed one of Chinatown’s most storied banquet halls. After sitting idle for years, the stylish space has been renovated and revitalized—ready for a new chapter under Chef Ho Chee Boon. As the former international executive chef of Hakkasan restaurants, his talent for dishing out refined, modern Cantonese fare is apparent, along with an extra pinch of personality and a touch of California seasonality.

4. Spruce, 3640 Sacramento St., San Francisco

Cuisine: Californian, Contemporary

Set in one of San Francisco’s snazziest neighborhoods, Spruce draws a regular following thanks to its elegant take on Californian cuisine, matching refined simplicity with impeccable seasonal ingredients. For dinner, try a starter of fluffy ricotta gnudi followed by a main course of roasted duck breast. For dessert: a decadent crème fraîche cheesecake. Cocktails and California wines round out the experience.