My favorite upscale brunch on a leisurely weekend. Make reservations as it’s always packed, even in the Parisian café area up front, where I prefer sitting. I cannot recommend Absinthe for dinner as I find it overpriced for merely decent food, but lunch is good (more reasonably priced) and their cocktails among the most well-crafted in town. But Absinthe brunch, for me, is the pinnacle: order mimosas, the incomparable Creamy Polenta, Ricotta Stuffed French Toast or a perfectly prepared Croque Monsieur, uniquely offset with Indian-style chutney.

Right next door to Absinthe (and owned by the same group), Arlequin serves basic café food, coffee, tea and gelato (on lucky days when it’s on the menu, you can order Absinthe’s Creamy Polenta here!) The trick is to walk through a narrow, unimpressive storefront to the divine little garden out back. I’ve experienced many a happy hour sipping cappuccinos while writing in this magical garden.

What can I say? It’s already a Bay Area institution and some of the best coffee in America. Head to Linden Street for drip coffee, cappuccinos and mochas that will recall the best coffees in Italy or France. Take a cup to nearby Hayes Green and enjoy!

Though they may not be the best sandwiches you’ve ever had, this tiny shop serves fresh sandwiches in a friendly, laid back storefront. When working in the area, I’d come here regularly for a relaxed read and lunch at the counter or a sidewalk table (note: minimal seating options).

The raves you’ve heard about this place are true only for the bakery. After multiple visits, I find the restaurant inconsistent, average and not remotely worth the price. The bakery, however, does wow with famed cakes, incredible cookies and homemade gelato (my favorite order is a messy, delectable ice cream sandwich made out of cookies and gelato of my choice), fruit pates, chocolates, and other baked goods.

The burgers and shakes are solid, but mainly it’s just a fun Hayes Valley spot with a relaxed outdoor patio, which is usually mobbed on weekends.

I have mixed feelings about this funky spot: its charming, bohemian décor and patio are simultaneously shabby; the salads, sandwiches and crepes are generally average (for SF). It is, however, affordable, and the Belgian fries, served in a white paper cone, are accompanied by your choice of many intriguing dipping sauces. Some work, some do not. The big down side for a sauce lover like myself, is that they give you way too little.