I've been to La Folie, Zuni, Slanted Door, A16, etc

[micki]

I'm looking for a great SF restaurant (not in the East bay). I've been to many but, of course, not all. Dining room at the Ritz, yes. Boulevard, yes again. I'm hearing good things about Nopa. Anyone been? I'm taking dear friends out to dinner and I want the food to be delicious, gutsy and anything but just OK. I'm open to all types of cuisine. Thanks for any suggestions you might have.

[JasmineG]

Aziza? Ame? They both fit the good gutsy food requirement. Nopa is very loud, so it may not be a great place to take dear friends out to dinner if you want to talk to them.

[mofo313]

Another vote for Aziza
-great food
-great cocktails
-fun atmosphere
-pretty much everything Ruth mentioned

[steve h.]

i've been to the above (minus la folie). are you looking for more of the same or something different? do you wish to impress or kick back and enjoy a meal?

[micki]

Nah, I don't have to impress them. They've known me way to long for that:-). Just kick back, eat great food and have conversation. Jasmine G (below) says Nopa is loud so it's a no go for me. I'm not familiar with Aziza or Ame but I'll check them out. Keep 'em coming.

[srr]

Another vote for Aziza

[micki]

Ok, that's two for Aziza. I'd also like to mention that in this case money is not an issue. That doesn't mean I want something frou frou (I really don't like fancy/precious although I did enjoy my meal at La Folie but French bistro is more my style). I'm trying to refine my request so I don't have you generous SF hounds going crazy.

[Ruth Lafler]

I'd say that Aziza may be the number one most recommended restaurant on this board:

fun atmosphere (but not too loud) -- check
veggie friendly -- check
moderate price -- check
good for groups of friends or family -- check
good cocktails -- check
natural/sustainable ingredients -- check
good desserts -- check

About the only frequently requested critia that Aziza doesn't have are close to downtown/BARTable and good parking. Splurge and go with the valet.

However, if you still want more ideas, something about what you said made me think you might like Piperade.

-----
Aziza
5800 Geary Blvd., San Francisco, CA 94121

Piperade
1015 Battery St., San Francisco, CA 94111

[micki]

Ruth, I know you've been an active, informative poster on chowhound for many years. I think we're on the same wave length which makes me feel even more comfortable with Aziza. I have to admit that the bellydancer thing almost threw me off. I will, however,do my due diligence and check out Piperade. Thank you.

[wally]

There is no belly dancer at Aziza.

[Ruth Lafler]

Right. No bellydancer. Not for years.