Any Ideas for Monday Night Anniversary Dinner in SF- Fun, Not too Quiet, Not Chaos Either...

[Oakland Barb]

We had planned to spend a couple of nights in Napa, but I'm sick and this will be about it! Ad Hoc will have to wait.
Is there such a thing a something a little romantic but not "dormant"? I'm not fond of eating in half empty restaurants or those were it's uncomfortable to speak above a whisper (although that's all I can manage today at best).

[stromboli]

You can also check out Quince (bit quiet though), Zuni, or even Ame...all good places.

[whiner]

Fleur de Lys is my favorite restaurant in the city. I would deffinitely go there.

Word on MM is that the food is excellent but the service can be spotty.

[Marat]

You might want to get on the phone and see if you can get into Gary Danko or the Dining Room at the Ritz Carlton (a tall order I know, but being a Monday...) After that, try Aqua, La Folie... work your way down till you get lucky.

[Oakland Barb]

Gary Danko has nothing before 9:30 PM. The Ritz is closed on Monday. Looks like La Folie, Fleur de Lys or Michael Mina.
I have a friend ,whom I greatly trust, who felt her meal at La Folie was "strange". There is nothing she won't eat (although that's not the case with my husband).
What's the most recent word on MM and FDL?
Other ideas?

What is the most recent word on the other two?

[Robert Lauriston]

La Folie's hardcore haute French. A very picky friend had a birthday there a couple of weeks ago and was really impressed by the food. Also by the wine bill ... don't order without asking the price.

[susancinsf]

I haven't been to La Folie: are wine prices not mentioned on the list?

[Robert Lauriston]

Sure. Just ask the price before taking the sommelier's recommendations.

[whiner]

Depending upon which Monday you have in mind (reservations hassle) Slanted Door, Piperade, Fringale, A16, Delfina, NoPa (upstairs, downstairs is too loud), Terzo, Range (from what I hear), Myth (also from what I hear)...

[Oakland Barb]

Thanks for the suggestions.
There is a slight "change". This is now a "no holds barred" dinner as someone else is picking up the tab. Sky's the limit, but I have to get a reservation!
Now what?!

[Robert Lauriston]

La Folie.

[SanseiDesigns]

Fleur de Lys - a romantic spot with great service and cuisine. Hubert Keller has re-created a beautiful room (post-fire) and continues to create beautiful cuisine.

Michael Mina - cuisine is classic MM, service is not, atmosphere is austere compared to FdL.

A16 - fun, good food, but noisy when crowded (often).

Myth - When I've been there is has always been humming and busy. Okay atmosphere, but for a celebration the first two are better.

Fifth Floor - Melissa Perello is beyond her years in talent. A Food and Wine rising star and having cooked at James Beard House, she understands the importance of the 'total experience.' The foie appetizer is beautiful and a favourite. I suggest the tasting menu. It is a gmemorable experience. To make it a night to remember and not have to drive, Fifth Floor is located in the Palomar Hotel.

[rworange]

According to this week's Chronicle Melissa Perello is leaving.

[DezzerSF]

Her last night is New Years Eve.

[Robert Lauriston]

I love A16 but it has always been packed and insanely noisy at dinner, even on Mondays. Lunch was the only time I've found it quiet.

[Robert Lauriston]

A16's been a noisy zoo on the Mondays I've been there. I think a lot of restaurant business people like it and that's their usual day off.

[Robert Lauriston]

Incanto.